Newbie...with a question

[SimplyCakesbySusan]

Hi everyone,

[dawnscake]

Good question Susan! I would like to know also! I have only had 1 coordinator contact me in the 2 years I've been in business. I know that not every bride uses a coordinator, but it would be nice to be on the "list" for a couple in my area!

[SimplyCakesbySusan]

Dawn,

Your cakes are wonderful!!! Please add me to your "cake" link in California. You have done so many weddings! I have only done a few...I think because I haven't really advertised. And of the ones I have done...I can't upload the picture. I only have one on my site.

I hope a coordinator comments on this. I also wonder which is the best way to contact a coordinator. Call or Email or regular mail?

[dawnscake]

Susan,
thank you! I haven't really done that many. In 2003 I did like 3 cakes, 2004 was 9 I think (got my license in Sept.), 2005 was 39 and so far this year I have 47 booked, with more consultations coming up. It takes some time at first, but once your name is out there it makes a huge difference! If you have any questions or would just like to chat, email me!

[riversidewedplanner]

Hello Ladies,

I'm a Wedding Planner in Southern California. As a matter of fact, I worked for another company for eight years and recently started my own company this year. As for the way I connected with bakeries in the past was a recommendation from someone who had been there or by going out and introducing my self to the owners. As a planner I always insist on a tasting and prescreened interview. I would suggest you contact a couple of local planners and invite them to your place and let them know who you are.

[SimplyCakesbySusan]

I am in Northern Ca. But thanks for asking. And thanks for the advice.

I will have to make some phone calls today!!!!:p

[The Wedding Diva]

I agree-- after you close up shop, have an exclusive tasting for the coordinators in your area. Search the internet and phone book for names; don't forget site venues and caterers too-- sometimes they do not provide cake. So that they will take you seriously, consider investing in quality, professional invitiations and make it mandatory that they R.S.V.P. Of course, follow up with your listing to ensure a proper count. Everyone LOVES cake! At your tasting, have a spread of your photos an actual cake if you can have for display (even if it is just dummy layers)and of course samples! Gauge the interest, and consider adding a special-- you can extend a discount to a select few coordinators.

[SimplyCakesbySusan]

When is usually a good evening or day for Coordinators? Tues or Weds? I know weekends are NOT good!!! LOL!!!

That is a great suggestion. I will work on that.

Thanks!

[The Wedding Diva]

It really depends, but yes, avoid the weekends! Make your invite and copy appealing enough and you'll get a great response-- people will make room in their schedules!

[SimplyCakesbySusan]

Thanks so much!!! I'll email you when I get invites done...That way you can approve them....LOL;)

Seriously....Thank you again.

[The Wedding Diva]

Hey! Absolutely no problem whatsoever. Unfortunately, there is a lot of ego in our business and I find it so very unnecessary. It's not about me or you, it's about our client and making it beautiful for her :) Whatever I can do, just holler!

FYI, Vistaprint is having an EXCELLENT sale on postcards right now. If you can find anything cheaper than free, let me know LOL

[Foreverweddings]

Hi, Susan. I am a wedding coordinator very near to you and I'd love to put you on my list! I do most of my work in the Fresno area, but will also work in the Modesto area where you are. I've looked at your website and your cakes are lovely. Take a look at my website and feel free to contact me personally. I hope to hear from you soon!

[Put your URL in your sig! - by Admin]

[SimplyCakesbySusan]

Thanks Misty...I emailed you directly. I can't wait to talk to you!!!!