3 Takeaways From Lindsey Conklin’s Empowering and Networking Session

We missed hosting our local WeddingPro Experience so much that we decided to bring you all the inspiration and education you love to you at home. Since we’ve turned to technology now more than ever, what better way to celebrate and learn from our pro community than with our own WeddingPro Experience Online? 

We learned so much from our amazing industry experts. We know that #loveisnotcanceled and that couples are excited to celebrate in the future, so it’s key to make sure your business is prepared. 

Our second keynote session of the week was with Lindsey Conklin of Le Rêve Films on empowering and networking to combat feelings of isolation. Here are the top takeaways:

Takeaway: Cultivate Industry Relationships

Until our “new normal” begins, we could all use more support. This time can be mentally challenging for pros who tend to be extroverts and normally work with others, including couples and businesses. “No one is truly self sufficient— everyone needs comfort and company from others in order to thrive. The same is absolutely true for your business,” says Lindsey. During this time, it’s key to surround yourself with like-minded pros who understand the realities of running a wedding business.

It’s hard to imagine how to gain a sense of community while we’re all in our homes. The answer is through networking: creating genuine connections in business. It provides the support system and feeling of belonging you’re currently craving. 

When networking, be genuine, authentic and honest. Avoid trying to sell your business; instead, try to get to know people and be vulnerable. Of course, you won’t click with everyone, so consider investing more time in the relationships you feel inspired by. Then, pay it forward and be generous without expecting something in return.

What That Looks Like: Attend virtual industry events – like this one! “What’s nice is that geography is no longer a barrier. We now have people coming together from all over the country, which is a huge advantage. It allows us to see things from a different perspective,” Lindsey remarks.

Social media is a great tool for marketing yourself to couples, but it can also be helpful to connect with fellow pros. Facebook Groups make it especially easy to connect with other pros. As the adage says, there really is a group for everyone. If you join a group, make sure to be active and participate; you’ll get out what you put in.

Lindsey has also found accountability buddies among wedding pros. His group regularly comes together over Zoom to share ideas, set goals and check in on each other. “This has been so beneficial to have and gives us a space where we can be vulnerable,” he says. 

Takeaway: Adjust Your Perspective

Aside from the glass-half-full optimist and the glass-half-empty pessimist, there’s a third person: the innovator. Instead of concentrating on the amount of water, the innovator believes that the glass is simply the wrong size. “Right now it’s important to be like that third person. We can’t change how much water we have, so let’s try to be content with what we have and work around it,” Lindsey recommends. 

In other words, we may not have control of our circumstances, but we do have control of our attitude. We can adjust it to see our circumstances from different angles. Instead of focusing on what’s broken right now, focus on what’s working and build on it. Look at this time as an opportunity to relax, connect with other people in the industry and laugh at your mistakes. “It’s an opportunity for many to gain control of work-life balance,” Lindsey reminds.

What That Looks Like: Try to take life one day at a time and recognize that some stress is inevitable. Instead of focusing on large, stress-inducing goals, break them up into smaller, more manageable tasks. “This will save you unnecessary stress and set you up for success,” Lindsey recommends. 

Takeaway: Stay Active

One of the best things you can do for your mental health is to stay physically active. Though this is more easily said than done, it can be as simple as taking a walk around the block in the morning. Starting your day by getting outside can have a huge impact on your mental well-being.

Staying mentally and creatively active is just as important. Take this time to work on passion projects or move your work outside every once in a while.

What That Looks Like: Lindsey and his wife worked on a documentary about the lives of wedding professionals right now. “It was different than anything we’ve ever done. It was also risky because we were telling other people’s stories and vulnerabilities. However, it kept us sane by staying creatively active and challenging ourselves.”

You are part of an entire industry and community of people that are going through the exact same things you are. While it’s said many times, this is possibly the first time where we actually are all in this together. You are not an island, and you are not alone. 

For more from Lindsey, use code ProLove2020 to watch the full presentation. Follow along for more takeaways from our WeddingPro Experience Online!

Photo Credit: Ama by Aisha – Photography & Cinema