As a business owner in our modern era, it’s easy to get swept up in the gifts that technology can provide. We’re constantly focused on sending out new marketing campaign blasts, updating our websites, and cultivating the perfect social media aesthetic.
Amongst all of this, it’s imperative that we remember the value of word of mouth.
Whether you’re beginning your foray into the wedding industry or are a seasoned expert, the importance of client testimonials and vendor referrals cannot be understated.
But how do you get them?
Sure, a happy client may leave a glowing review on your website, but this may be few and far between, or they may not give a full picture of your services. Working with other vendors is a great way to get referrals, but you may not be at the forefront of their minds in the future.
If you’re in need of referrals and testimonials from clients and vendors, remember: it never hurts to ask. Here’s how to do so successfully:
Before we dive into the how, it’s crucial to understand the why. Even in our ad-driven business climate, referrals and testimonials are the lifeblood of your reputation as a wedding professional.
They serve as social proof, as others are vouching for you and your services, and assure potential clients that you can deliver on your dreams. Referrals and testimonials can help you build a fountain of valuable attributes, including:
Truly, it’s difficult to understate just how crucial client testimonials and wedding vendor testimonials can be to the success of your business. Now, all you need to do is ensure that you have these endorsements on hand for prospective clients to read.
Timing is everything when it comes to requesting testimonials or referrals. Though you don’t want to be intrusive, especially towards a newly married couple, you need to strike while the iron is still hot.
For client testimonials, the general guideline is to send a request shortly after the wedding, ideally within a week or two when the experience is still fresh in their minds.
For vendor referrals, the timeline is roughly the same. After a successful collaboration (if you truly did not mesh well with the collaborator, don’t send a request), reach out within the next few weeks and ensure that it aligns with your professional relationship and project timelines.
Though timing is key, so is efficiency, and your HoneyBook or CRM programs can be a powerful tool. They can help you streamline the process, allowing you to incorporate referral and testimonial requests into your day-to-day workflow. Here’s how:
Crafting a compelling testimonial request is essential, but there are a few different ways to do it. Whether it’s a broad request or something more personal, it’s important to come off as genuine rather than pushy. Additionally, they will look different when talking to clients or vendors. Here are a few examples.
For Clients:
For Vendors:
All of these are great examples of an initial testimonial or referral request, but they aren’t foolproof. Sometimes, you may never get a response. This can feel hurtful, especially when you made a special connection with a client or a fellow vendor, but it’s important to remember that it’s likely not personal.
Instead, keep crafting your testimonial and referral requests and prepare for your next opportunity.
© 2021-2024 BODA BLISS LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
PRIVACY STATEMENT
Online business management for wedding businesses in Chicago and beyond.
Brand Photography by Lisa Kathan Photography
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Branding and Website Design by Emily Foster Creative
© 2021-2024 BODA BLISS LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
PRIVACY STATEMENT
Online business management for wedding businesses in Chicago and beyond.
Brand Photography by Lisa Kathan Photography
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Branding and Website Design by Emily Foster Creative