I came across this terrific post over at the Oahu Wedding Professional association site, which bills itself as ‘ fun, informative, and slightly irreverent’.  So true.  I really enjoy reading their blog.  The post asked a pretty important question that you might not have considered, especially if you’re a solopreneur wedding planner or a small team:

How’s my front line?

Your front line is your face to the world.  Whether it’s your desk person at your floral shop or the second shooter for your photography studio, these folks represent you and your business.  They are the ones making the first impression.  So, it’s important they put your best foot forward.

Here’s what I wrote in response to Oahu’s blog post:

Really good article and I’d like to add one thought. Before submitting your frontline to what amounts to a pop quiz, be sure you were clear about your expectations for that role first.

Does your receptionist know how you want your clients greeted in person and on the phone and why? Have you, as an employer, shared how you expect common situations (i.e. you’re running late or out of the office or sick) to be handled?  Maybe.  Maybe not.

My experience as a communication strategist is that most people assume the person doing the role will know what to do or say,especially if its an administrative one. Just answer the phone- with no real direction or discussion until there’s a problem. It’s hard to stay motivated and do your best as an employee when you don’t know what your boss expects.

Setting expectations doesn’t have to be complicated or fussy. A simple sentence like this one does the trick.

‘When you answer the phone, please say Positively Wed- specialized training for wedding professionals in communications and leadership skills’. That way, people know quickly they reached the right number and what we do .’

Explanation and expectation in one neat bundle! Maybe I’ll do a post or two on managing help, which can be awkward when you’re a solopreneur or small team. I hope you don’t mind me throwing in my 2 cents. Yours is one of the very best sites for wedding professionals and I want to support that.

Couple more thoughts about your front line.

Use your front line to extend your reach to touch brides. You can’t be everywhere (unless you’ve discovered the secret of human cloning).  But you can get your message out to more brides and wedding professionals by educating your front line about what’s unique about your business.

One of my former law firm clients did this so effectively.  Their administrative assistant was a very friendly, approachable young woman who made potential clients feel immediately comfortable.  Which is a feat since most people panic when calling a lawyer.  She was incredibly well-versed in the specialties of each of the lawyers and the types of cases they handled.   While she didn’t actually assign cases, she could help clients get a feel for the firm’s personality and who might work best for their needs.  She so increased their revenues because a ) her helpfulness demonstrated their commitment & landed the clients; and b) her attention and care made current clients feel like VIPs (who happily paid their bills).  What would it mean to your wedding business if your front line folks did that for you?

Everything is your front line. In this Internet age, what you write, how you respond on Twitter, possibly what you read is available for your clients to discover.  (LinkedIn shows when you’ve read someone’s profile)   That absolutely applies to your website and online social media profiles.

I can’t tell you how disappointing it is to read a great comment in one of the forums then click through to discover a website that is unattractive or poorly updated.  It breaks the spell and calls that person’s competence into question.  And, I’m not talking a typo or two (although it’s good to avoid those).  I’m talking no updating for months.

Sorry, but too busy is not an excuse.  Because if you’re too busy to maintain your OWN website, how can a bride trust you to be at the cutting edge of trends and such when you assist with her wedding?   There’s a wealth of affordable help out there.  (Let me know and I’ll point you to some tech or social media resources)

I’m thinking about doing a call on delegation to assistants, interns, contractors or employees.  Anybody up for that?  (BTW, my free March call on 3/24 is all about how to play nice in groups. First 20 people to register will receive a discount coupon for the audio/workbook bundle!)

I’m a problem-solving coach, right.  That means I want to help you (and me) tackle the day to day stuff so we can really transcend and take our lives and wedding companies  to the next level.  Whatever that is.  So when I came across this absolutely fab list of questions ( courtesy of  Elizabeth PW’s newsletter), I HAD to pass it on.

Sharing the Good Stuff

The list is actually called ‘101+1 Small Business Marketing Questions for People who don’t Speak Marketing‘.  (what a mouthful)  Naomi Dunford, that sassy blogger who writes IttyBiz, generated a list of not-your-usual marketing questions.   These witty questions actually make it fun to think about creating a marketing plan for your wedding business.  Naomi covers the basics like what’s your niche, how are you different and what’s your value add, but in a more relaxed way.

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I read these articles that ask me to ‘differentiate my business from competitors’ and think, really?  I’m not a multi-national conglomerate that has a gazillion competitors and thinks in formulas.  It just seems old and formal.   Like your father’s marketing plan.  Not my style.

On the other hand, I got an enormous kick out of considering how I was better than other bozos, one of the questions.  (Answer: Since I’m not offended to think of myself as a bozo, my humility is in place and makes me a more compassionate teacher.  I don’t lecture; I share  because I don’t have all the answers.  You have some, too.)  It was irreverent, fun yet very practical.  Something that feels more like me.  I really think you’re going like this.

Makes Marketing Fun

Naomi’s questions are real yet playful.  I love how she handles the sticky bit about getting testimonials.  We all know we need them, but getting them consistently is another matter.  Naomi simply asks you to consider:

What nice stuff might other people say about me if only I asked them to say it? (Hint: You’ll get more testimonials if you ask for them.)

What a GREAT question that is.  Why?  It’s an excellent example of how useful it can be to properly frame a question.  You’ve read the question: how can I get more testimonials? a million times, right.  Me, too.  And, frankly, it’s a little intimidating.  It feels like you gotta go out and hunt some down!

This question is quite the opposite.  It invites you to remember something nice then puts those good feelings to work in a constructive way.  You’re not cornering folks, instead you’re asking if they notice the same positive qualities others did.  When I read that question I got an immediate ego boost  thinking about the nice stuff you readers have said about Positively Wed.  Very inspiring.   Go on, read it to yourself.  I bet you  get a smile thinking about the nice compliment you got last week!

Learning how to properly ask questions, meaning to ask in  a way that gets  positive results, is a skill every wedding professional must know.  Really, essential for giving your bride the very best wedding.  (And, it makes getting a deal  a snap!) We are definitely going to talk more about.  In fact, the introduction call will be part of Season Two of Brideability, which is coming soon.

Anyway, take a look at this extraordinary list.  Better yet- bookmark or print it out.  I’m going to.  And, if you’re not reading marketing blogs, do try IttyBiz

Your mind will answer most questions if you relax and wait for the answer.  William S. Burroughs

Are you an A type?  You know a ball full of energy and determination who absolutely must DO.  Yeah, me too.   I bet most wedding professionals would say the same.  We  thrive on accomplishing things.  And, not just done- done well.  That constant buzz people hear around wedding folks  is the sound of many, many ideas being born. That swoosh sound is wedding planners, photographers, florists, officiants  flying into action.  We get passionate about our work.  Comically, so at times.   When I get really motivated by something I make this crazy karate chopping motion.  Like hi-ya it’s done!  You gotta see it; it cracks my husband up.

I love being so energized by Positively Wed and the great folks I’ve met so far.  I get such a kick out of networking; everyone I meet is fun, personable and generally very sweet.  I love learning about different wedding associations and groups.  It’s even fun figuring out the new rules of social marketing.  But,  busy has a dark side.   All this go, go, go has made me less intentional.

Do you notice that too?  That you end up doing things you that are productive but not necessary in the rush to do, complete, accomplish.

Here’s my example.  I was super busy last week embracing yes and preparing to quickly grow my business.  I got a new iMac and HP printer (which might be going back to the store if it doesn’t work tonight).   I’m migrating over from PC to Mac.  (Tip: Research your favorite software before switching.  I love Roboform (it’s a password G-d) but it won’t be available for Safari until year’s end and I can’t wait.  Wish I’d known ahead of time).

Researching new business software, doing the video tutorials on how to run iWork and getting acclimated is eating up my time.  I’m doing a trial with a new VA, which will definitely help.  It’s action but not necessarily productive action.  Yeah, I’ll need this stuff to function.  Still, it’s not moving me closer to answering last weeks question- what next?

The best business coaches say that the most successful people take action.  I’m not disputing that, especially since that’s my nature.  What I’m questioning is, ‘can meaningless action prevent one from truly knowing your own mind and desires?’    When I say meaningless I mean less purposeful, as in undirected.    Will you or I be too busy doing stuff to actually get around to what would make us happiest?

I’d love your thoughts on this.   Are you busy with purpose or just busy and how do you tell the difference?  Finding that answer seems important to growing profitable, sustainable businesses.  I mean, if I prevent myself from knowing what I want, how can I go on to world domination?  LOL Or, at least my version of it.  For now, I’m going to do as William suggests.  Relax and wait for my mind to tell me.  I got this cool new meditation app called iSamadhi so I’m good to go, eh, sit.

What have you noticed about your habits around being busy and how that impacts your wedding business?

PS Anyone recognize the song I referenced in the title?  An oldie but a goodie!

Whew, it’s great to take a break from all the ‘migration’ work from PC to Mac.  I bought an iMac this week.  Honestly, if I’d known how annoying this would be, I’d probably never have switched.  I’m just frustrated.  Which got me thinking about other stuff that ticks me off.Like all those times technology does NOT ride to the rescue.  Like when the bridge line won’t let you access your own call (true story!)  Or, your banking site won’t accept your password (name your first child) even when you know you’re right.  Arrrggghhh! Things that don’t work- BAD.  Surprising new technology that works for your wedding business- GOOD!  That’s why I was so happy to fall across a pretty cool tech tool.  iSwipe for iPhone.

Spreading the Word about PositivelyWed

My goal this year is to take Brideability on the road and talk to hoards of wedding professionals.  So far, so good.  I’ll be speaking on May 12th at the local (that’s New England) ABC meeting on social media.  And, again on April 20th Wendy Robinson of Aspire to Plan and I will chat about conflict resolution.  The big showwwww (as Ed Sullivan used to say) will be on July 18th at the NY regional ABC meeting.  (If your organization or group wants a conflict expert to speak, shoot me an email at Dina (at)PositivelyWed.com

Of course, I’d love to share my materials from my store at these event.  But how to do that without a fuss?  You’ve had this conference experience I’m sure.  You want to buy the materials but it’s a hassle with hand-writing  your credit card number, then you might not get a written receipt.  Well, that leaves me cold.  I didn’t want to do that to you.  I want to be able to easily accept credit cards so you can start learning right away.

Wedding Pros-Take Credit Card Payments by Phone!

Ever resourceful, I searched for solutions and found iSwipe.  It’s a credit card processor that works via your iPhone.  I downloaded the app,  although I haven’t used it yet.  Looks pretty easy to use.  And,  hey there’s even a YouTube video on how to link it with your Paypal account.  Pretty sweet.

I also heard about another bit of hardware that will let you actually swipe the card (you have to type in the numbers in iSwipe).  It’s called the Square.  You can read more about it here.  It connects to your iPhone so you can swipe like at a regular store.  Has payer verification ….by picture.  Accepts payment immediately and then sends an email receipt!  Sounds great.  I see myself at the end of each speaking event swiping away!

I see you, my dear wedding planner, swiping, too.  Hit it off with your couple?  Seal the deal and get your deposit in 5 minutes flat.  Want to boost your favors revenue- why not have a sample pack for sale so brides can show others?  My friend Victoria Joanne, who makes custom garters, could absolutely use this product at bridal shows to sell her beautiful embroidered name tags for gowns and tuxes on the spot.

Now, if you’re saying, but I don’t have a product.  Well, we’re gonna talk about creating multiple income streams soon.  Short answer- you have skills, expertise and knowledge that  couples could use even if they can’t afford your rates.  Figure out what that is and offer it!

PS  Totally off topic-

What do you think of this title: Play Nice: Work Well in Groups without killing Others or Yourself! ? On March 25 I’m doing a call explaining how you can participate in a group and get great results without frustration, excess talking and getting stuck.   But I stink at titles.  Would this title compel you to sign up?  What would you suggest instead?

Bridal shows are very exciting.  So much to see and do.  All the lovely cakes, table linens, vendors can make it an overwhelming  experience for both bride and wedding vendor.  Yet, bridal shows are the traditional way to meet your clients.  So, I thought I’d offer a thought or two about getting in the right mindset to make the best of your investment.

An emerging wedding planner asked me this:  Attending my first bridal show- any advice?

Here’s what I said:

Hey, first congrats for making the move.  Attending a bridal show can be daunting, but you’ve already done the hard part by committing to attend.  Now, make it count!

Bridal shows can make you feel shy.  Brides feel shy too.  Take the initiative to connect.  Make eye contact.  Smile, even if you’re nervous, bored or worried.  Ask questions about her instead of trying to tell her about you- that’s what everyone else is doing so you’ll stand out.

If you’re nervous, do what I do.  Pretend this is your very own party and you must ensure everyone is happy.  Vendors and brides alike.  People forget what you did or said, but never how you make them feel!

Two most important things- One, get the brides contact info and FOLLOW UP.  It’s appalling how few vendors actually contact the bride later.  Crazy, huh.  It’s like making a cake but not turning on the oven.  Yes, there’s a chance of rejection.  That’s life. Get over it.  That no response puts you one step closer to a YES.

Two, make arrangements so you can go to the bathroom and have a break!  I forgot to do that at a conference, and well, the pee-pee dance is not an attractive look.  Good luck and let me know how it goes.

I know how competitive it can feel when you’re on the event floor.  Just remember what you offer is unique because no one can ‘bite your style’, as the kids say.  You have no competition for being you!

Because there’s a lot of great practical advice out there, here are some additional articles:

Attending a Bridal Show

Bridal Show Tips

Of course, I’d love to hear what you, my dear readers, do to get killer results at your bridal shows. Spill- in the comments below!

The best way out is always through. ~ Robert Frost

Truer words were never spoken.  I just wish the whole ‘through’ thing was a little easier.  I’m mainly talking to me, but read along because you probably do this too.

Anyone who knows me would describe me as someone of great energy.  I like to GET THINGS DONE and MOVE.  I’m in the zone when I’m doing three things at once (although brain scientists now say there is no such thing as multi-tasking).  So, when I slow way down I know something is wrong.  Somehow, I’m stuck.

Lately, I’ve been struggling with what to do next with PositivelyWed.com  And, I know why.  Things worked out.

Getting What You Want is a Good Thing?

You know, I hosted a teleseminar about marketing to Encore brides last week.  It went very well.  Great discussion and interaction with attendees.   Wonderful feedback . Nice sales on the Guide.  My guest, Paula Bisacre of Remarriagemagazine.com, and I hit it off so well we’re business buddies now.  Most of the technology worked.   This is pretty much what I busted my butt for over the last few months.  If getting what you want is such a good thing, why do I feel so blahhh?

Has that happened to you?   You plan and execute the most elaborate wedding that everyone applauds and you feel restless, like something is unfinished?  Your wedding photography is featured on StyleMePretty and you crave a nap.

It occurs to me that getting what I want might also be an iffy thing.  It feels joyous with a pinch of panic.   I’m thrilled to have products in my store and feel a little anxious when someone buys one.   Not because they’re not good.  They are useful, thoughtful and inspiring.  I just worry I can’t please everyone.  It reminds me about the old wives tale about taking the bitter with the sweet.   This is the sweet.  Who knows what the bitter will be?  I don’t.  And, that’s what’s worrisome.

Push on Through to the Other Side

Worrisome enough to get me stuck.  And maybe you, too.  Must have a little mule in me because when I can’t see what’s ahead, I’m liable to stop in my tracks.  Whatever you’re stuck about- booking more weddings, adjusting pricing, buying technology, business planning for the year- let’s make a pact to take Robert Frost’s advice to heart.

Let’s just push through the obstacles and see what’s next.   We could dilly-dally. Do more research.  Prepare longer.  But in the end we’d lose time and spirit, our most precious essentials.   Sure, the next thing might be bad or hard, but, heck, you and I have survived so far.  We can handle whatever comes up. [Hmming 'I am Woman Hear me Roar!']  And, if the next thing is good, let’s remember to embrace it and say YES without reservation or worry.

I fully intend for Positively Wed to change the way the wedding community relates to and talks to itself and brides.   I envision deeply happy and satisfied business owners who know how to use kindness as an effective business tool and are fearless.  And I may not know all the steps to getting there, and I’m sure I’ll make mistakes, but I hear the best way to do it is through it.

Now, if you aren’t feeling a little stuck, GOOD FOR YOU!! Tuck this pep talk away. Then, tell us how you handle the emotional ups & downs of growing your business.

Remember that kids show ‘Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego’?  My  Irish twins- boy and girl just 17 months apart-  loved that show when they were, uh, seven-ish.   I liked puzzling out where Carmen might be hanging out,too.  It was exciting.  Me, I’m not that mysterious.

I’m happy to tell you that Beverly Ann Bonner of Wedding Beautiful, Master Bridal Consultant and state rep for Mass. and adopted states of Association for Bridal Consultants (ABC), has invited me to speak at their meeting on May 12th.

Because social media has been such a marketing boon for small business, I’ll share my insights for integrating the top 3 platforms, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn, into your wedding business during my presentation, Social Media in a Nutshell for Wedding Professionals.

Along with suggestions on how to be strategic and avoid rookie mistakes, you’ll enjoy casual networking and a tour of the Harding Allen estate, a glorious Victorian venue.  I encourage you to put this in your calendar right now!

If you’re already a member of ABC New England, you’ll receive your invitation from Beverly Ann about one month before the program.   Register early because last time I did this talk people came out of the woodwork (and you’ll get the early-bird discount)!

Not an ABC member? This is a great opportunity to check out this well known and recognized group for yourself.  And, get a lesson in social media to boot.  All for just $35!  Send an email to Beverly Ann to be added to the invitation list now!

Drop me a note in the comments if you plan to attend.  And, please say hi at the event; I’d love to meet you.

I’ve been thinking a lot about the recent lawsuit involving David Tutera.  News of it spread through the wedding community like wildfire, with wedding professionals standing on either side of the fence- some sympathetic, some not so much.  Of course, I have some immediate thoughts like, ‘why aren’t they in mediation?”, but I want to ponder the larger lessons  a little longer.  Today, let’s chat about a related topic- near and dear to my heart- contracts

Your Wedding Business Contract

First, I’m not wearing my lawyer hat today.   None of what I’m about to say is meant to be legal advice.  I’m wearing my business owner hat.  My aim is to ask you to think differently about what your contract can do for your wedding business. Yeah, not the sexiest subject matter, but designed thoughtfully, your contract experience could become an essential asset of your business that attracts brides and proactively solves issues.

Contract Basics

Wedding professionals are like other business owners when it comes to contracts.  There’s a lot of  misinformation around.  For instance, I hear vendors say, ‘I got a contract; I’ll take ‘em to small claims court.

Well, here’s the truth about that.  You’ll likely to miss at least two days of work because typically the respondent (that’s the person who owes you) doesn’t show the first time.  Those are hours you can’t get back.  Winning in small claims court doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll ever get paid.  You win a judgment for payment that has to be enforced. It’s not automatic.  And, in fact, you might need to pay someone to help you enforce the judgment.  More money spent.   Most folks leave dissatisfied.

Take a minute if you haven’t already to learn the basics. Site like Nolo.com offer free legal information and advice.  Here’s an article that lists several online resources, although I haven’t used them.   Contracts are kind of like cakes.  The basic ingredients are the same yet you can add just about anything to spice it up.

Your Contract is Not This

I realized over the years that each of us view a contract differently.  It’s a promise.  It’s a way to communicate.  It’s a rundown of legal responsibilities.  It can be a lot of things, but to my way of thinking it’s not a sword or a shield.

Light Saber

You raise up your contract like a light saber from  Star Wars. (I’m geeky)  You’re ready to use the Force aggressively to protect and defend.  Touch any clauses in my contract and die!

Umbrella

You carry your contract around like the red umbrella in the Travelers Insurance commercials.   Very wide, it shields you from unpleasantness and makes being a business owner less daunting.  You are covered.

I saw this in others.  I experienced it myself.  When I was starting out I used my contracts to club big corporations back into line.  I felt small and powerless so I used what I had to fend off the enemy.

‘No, you may not delay payment.  My contract says…’.   ‘ It worked mostly.  However, it was extremely tiring to be on the defensive, thrusting my contract all around.  The more energy I put into protecting myself against bad companies, consultant and customers, the more they found me, and the less energy I had to put into what mattered to me- changing the way people interacted.

Cowering under a shield didn’t work well either.  Just because you feel covered doesn’t mean you are.  Random stuff happens.  Unethical stuff happens.

A much larger and well known conflict consulting firm called to interview me about joining them.  We discussed our business models and philosophies which was pretty exciting for little me.   And, then just before ending I remember the person asked about my rates.  I balked, then reasoned they’re a good business- tell them.  And, I did.  Only to find out later that we were both in contention for a major training contract.  They beat me on price and won.  They violated the larger societal contract and I could’ve sued them for business interference.

What I did was even better.  I changed my mind.

The 3 BIG Ideas about Contracts

It occurred to me that I needed to rethink the whole concept of what  I wanted my contract to do. Before I just wanted it to protect my business, and by extension, me.  What if I could find a way for my contract to represent me in the world in a positive way instead.  Like a good will ambassador.  I wanted a contract that signaled that I am about collaboration, cooperation and mutual respect and you should be too, if you want to work together.  From a boatload of thinking and studying, I developed my 3 BIG ideas about contracts:

Make it Your Contract- Most people get a ready-made contract or have a lawyer draft one.  That’s fine, but it’s really someone else’s words and meaning on the page.   Make sure your contract represents your values and worldview.  Use your own language.  You’ll feel much more empowered.  And, oddly enough, more willing to be flexible.

Make Your Contract Work For You-Obvious, yet worth repeating.  Your contract should explain to your bride the circumstances and characteristics that allow you to do your best work, something she wants, too.

As part of my consulting contract for association leadership, I  mention I do my best work with leaders who value communication and collaboration, are open to examining their behaviors and ready to take action to change.  I also say I expect disagreements to be discussed first amongst us and then with a mediator if necessary.  It makes things more predictible.

Remember, it’s People First- A contract isn’t worth the paper it’s written on if there’s no meeting of the minds.  That can only happen when you talk about your services, expectations, concerns, questions, your contract with your couple.

You have a reason for asking for what you need in the contract.  Most people are really reasonable when they understand why.  By the same measure, your couple might have a reason for changing your contract language.  Don’t take offense immediately.  Inquire. Explore options.  Having a real connection with your bride is the best way to ensure you never have to rely on a piece of paper. (We’ll talk about mediation clauses soon.)

You can create an agreement that resonates with your values and strengths.  That allows you to collaborate with clients yet be clear and firm. (you know, the majority of issues arise because someone struggled with how to say something difficult- master that and you’re home free) And, best of all, do it from a generous stance.  It just takes a little thought.

Invest in Knowledge

I strongly advise you to spend 2-3 hours with an attorney who specializes in small business to review your operations and your contract.  Someone who specializes in entrepreneurs  will understand your daily challenges a lot better and will be able to make suggestions and introductions, if needed.  Ask your colleagues for referrals.

Look around for special programs to cushion the cost.  Most state bar associations have a reduced fee panel or a pro bono program.   Perhaps you live near a law school with a practice clinic.   (I once had a MBA class take my biz on as a project; it was fun)  You can turn to online resources like  LawGuru.com or Elance.com to find lawyers, too.  Have a list of specific questions ready.  It’s a big investment, I know.  But knowing you’re on sound footing is worth it, right?

One Last Thought

The real differences are between those who embrace peace and those who would destroy it; between those who look to the future and those who cling to the past; between those who open their arms and those who are determined to clench their fists.” Bill Clinton

I can tell you that changing your perceptions and practices  is good for business because it is.  You and your brides will experience a deeper sense of satisfaction because there will be more transparency and trust.   Nice way to do business.  Imagine what joy awaits you if you can face your future with your arms and heart open.

I haven’t failed.  I’ve found 1000 ways that don’t work. ~ Thomas Alva Edison

I’m a big fan of grit. Grit- the stuff that causes some people to hold on, to solve the unsolvable mystery or find the unknowable truth, when others give up. Kinda dramatic but grit is useful on a day to day level. Ever try untangling a necklace? The longer I stay with it the easier it eventually becomes. I’m not saying there’s not cursing but it does get untangled.  Grit works.

New Positively Wed Store Has Soft Opening

That should be the headline of my next press release, and it will be.  But today, I’m thrilled to be getting a little closer to completingthe first of many iterations of  my store.  (Websites are like gardens; there’s always weeding to do)  Those of you who listened to the early Brideability Summits- and I know who you are and love you- know the technical struggles those calls had. Really, the pits.  Phone lines hesitated then quit altogether.  The funniest had to be when I had a line full of attendees but no way to get into the call myself.  Now- I can laugh.  Then, I was scrambling for the next solution.

That’s why today feels so good.  Each bit of mishagosh brought me to this moment.  Last week my call about Encore Brides went off without a hitch. Well deserved success- I’d checked and re-check the equipment, my phone, the recording.  I was ready, dammit!

Then, the shopping cart didn’t work.  I had my  amazing Quickstart Marketing Guide and a rocking audio  and I couldn’t get either loaded after the call.  I was so frustrated, but not surprised.  As they used to say on late night TV, ‘This is a test.’  The universe just wanted to know how badly I wanted the next step.  I bet it tests you, too.

Miles to Go and Promises to Keep

I tend to think that the universe talks to me daily.  You too, actually.  Humans are much better receptors than we give ourselves credit for.  Intuition is real- how do you think we survived the dinosaurs?  So, why not listen when your gut say ‘do it!’?

Usually I make the time and mental space to listen when I get ‘an inkling’.  Because if I  don’t listen when she whispers, then  she has to yell. Or worse, I get a big ol’ slap in the head.  Nobody likes that. It’s never fun picking up after being stubborn.  The tech obstacles were the  universe asking if I intended to keep my promise to myself.  My promise to put really thoughtful, helpful tools in the world that make it easier to talk because  being honest and skillful in the moment can change a life-hopefully yours. I get a lot of peace sharing what I know.

That’s how I imagine Thomas got to 1000 tries.  He promised himself he would make a lightbulb or know the reason why not.  And, grit (and Einstein’s friendly universe) helped him keep that promise.  Grit is about having the courage and faith to continue even  when a door closes.

What did you promise yourself about your wedding business and what are you willing to do to keep that promise?

PS I just finished Under the Dome by Stephen King, an interesting commentary on grit, the human spirit and our place in the universe.

Nancy was right.  My friend, Nancy Milton- she does marital mediation, said that she thought Savannah would capture me, and it did.  I had my heart set on moving to funky Oakland where I’d bask in the people watching and warm.   It was a done deal.  I do believe in love at first sight.  One stroll through Forsyth Park at dusk and I fell-hard.  Goodbye Oakland, Hello Savannah.

You probably know that I’m on a quest to stomp out winter in my life.   I hate the cold.  And, I rarely say I hate anything.  But truly, it’s hate.   My spirit shrinks and my personality diminishes as the temperature dips.  I contract in all sorts of ways from November to March each year.   I decided to get away from frosty New England.  I need sun.  And, warmth.  And, charm.  And, community.  And, grace.  Savannah really has it all.

My husband, Peter, aptly named ‘the Nicest Guy in the World’, has agreed to this craziness.  His market research business is portable, so he’s up for the adventure of moving to the sun.  At least, most of the time.  He was unsure, but as you’ll see from the pictures below, he couldn’t resist the beauty of Savannah.  It was that or the  multitude of happy hours.  Either way, we’re moving there in 2011!

I’m really thrilled that I’ll have wedding professionals like Kendall Wayner of Ranco Tents, and Donna Von Bruening who leads Savannah Wedding Professionals for friendship and guidance.  And new friends like Mike of The Distillery and Manderly and Roman of Savannah Dream Vacations to help us get settled into the community.  Couldn’t find friendlier folks who loved their hometown more.  Getting to know each of you was a gift.  You helped us know the real Savannah, some warts too, and we appreciate it.  Thanks!

Oh, I almost forgot the Hotel Aviv- what a very cool place to stay.  A luxury hotel right in the middle of downtown nightlife and shopping.  The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful.  I met a couple of SCAD grads that gave me the low down on dorm life.  By the way, this isn’t a paid endorsement or anything.  I love shopping and supporting local businesses wherever I am.  These places and people make Savannah a must visit place and I wanted to share that.

Ok, I did try to capture all this joy on my iPhone.  I took copious pictures, but these are the best of the lot.  Hopefully, I’ll be able to use some combination of Google, Picasa and Facebook to get the album up here.  Cross your fingers!

Update— [insert many, many swear words], I couldn’t get the gorgeous collage of picture to show up here.  On a Google album somewhere, sure.  On my desktop, yeah.  But here- no.  So, when Rebecca saves me (again), all will be revealed.