What would your initial email look like if you were writing to a local Wedding Planner you've never met? You've never worked with or met them, but you love their style and you feel you both have a lot in common so you want to make a connection with them and turn it into a networking opportunity.

What do you say?

Hi Jolyn;

QUOTE

I came across your website and am currently expanding my contact list.

I am a Edmonton wedding photographer, and also photograph other special events (birthdays etc.). You can view my work at:.

Please contact me if I can be of any assistance to you and your company.

Sincerely,

Rebecca

This is what I used. Obviously you could be a bit more effusive in the first sentence, especially if you've seen and liked their work - this was my email to several wedding planners I found on the net. All replied saying they'd keep me in mind, and I have a meeting with one and her couple tonight!

I have photographers that email me from time to time when they are seeking work. I don't really pay any attention to generic emails. Some take the time to tell me what they like and why they would like to work with me. Those are the ones that I respond to. Even though I don't need full time help - I keep their names for when I need a 2nd - and I try to refer them to someone that I know that does need help.

Be concise. Tell the planner why you love his/her style and what you have in common.

Ask them if you can take them to lunch sometime. Give them a link to your work.

If you are serious, you should call them.

When I first started marketing without advertising I used e-mail. - I think everyone is using it now.

Gonna have to step it up a notch.

I send them a hand written note on fabulous paper with a few sample detail shots on linen paper. I think it makes more of an impact when they can actually see and feel something that I have done and they have something to show clients as well. I find that it is more personal than sending a generic e-mail.

That's what I'm talkin bout

Sounds great. I will have to implement something like that

As to what to say, I think you already have the right basis for the e-mail/note/phone call in your post.

Hi, I'm Misty of Misty Dawn Photography and while we have never worked together, I really love your style. I feel we have a lot in common in our artistic sensibilities and would love to buy you lunch and get to know you. I like to work with other wedding vendors so that I can provide referrals when brides ask me about other providers.

Are you free for lunch or a cup of coffee next week?


Frank

Great replies, everyone! I have never worked with her before, but I heard about her....so I don't have any images from one of her weddings to send her, unfortunately but I love the idea of sending samples with a hand-written note!