In this episode, Lindsey Wigfield interviews Kathryn Carter, a wedding planner and owner of Grace and Virtue Events, who is celebrating five years in business. Kathryn shares her journey of starting her business and transitioning to full-time event planning. She discusses the challenges and opportunities she faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and how she adapted her business. Kathryn also talks about the evolution of lead generation and the importance of collaboration and volunteering in the event planning industry. She highlights the role of social media, particularly Instagram and LinkedIn, in building relationships and promoting her business. Kathryn offers tips for planning creative and engaging corporate events and shares how people can work with her.

Instagram: @graceandvirtueevents
Facebook: Grace And Virtue Events
Email: kathryne@graceandvirtueevents.com

Takeaways

• Starting a business in event planning requires building relationships and gaining experience through collaboration and apprenticeship.
• Adapting to challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, can lead to new opportunities and growth in the event planning industry.
• Utilizing various lead generation strategies, such as referrals, SEO, and lead generation programs, can help in booking consistent clients.
• Working as a solopreneur and using contractors can provide flexibility and support in managing an event planning business.
• Collaboration and volunteering in the event planning industry can foster a sense of community and provide valuable resources and support.
• Social media, particularly Instagram and LinkedIn, can be powerful tools for building relationships, showcasing partnerships, and promoting event planning services.
• Incorporating events into a business strategy can help achieve goals and milestones, and planning creative and engaging events requires flexibility and understanding the client's vision.
• To work with Catherine and learn more about Grace and Virtue Events, individuals can reach out through email, social media, or the company's website.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

02:00
Starting the Business and Transitioning to Full-Time

03:59
Managing the Business During COVID-19

05:11
Evolution of Lead Generation

06:08
Working as a Solopreneur and Using Contractors

07:56
Collaboration and Volunteering in the Event Planning Industry

09:49
Utilizing Relevant Partnerships in Social Media Marketing

11:24
The Role of Social Media in Building Relationships

13:47
Using LinkedIn for Business Networking

15:06
Incorporating Events into Business Strategy

17:47
Tips for Planning Creative and Engaging Corporate Events

19:39
How to Work with Catherine and Contact Information