I received an email from someone I had never met or even heard of… and this is what he wrote:
My name is __________ , I am a the owner of a wedding videography company called __________ Productions. I am reaching out to you to see if I can be on a list of your recommended vendors for weddings. All my information (pricing, portfolio, etc.) is on my website, if you have any questions for me please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thanks for reaching out.

I shake my head every time I get an email like this.  Let me get this straight:  he wants me to add him to a referral list because he sent an email to me requesting that?  There is something about being a wedding planner that he clearly doesn’t understand!

First, I don’t have a “referral list” that I hand out.  I have worked with many, many professionals in every category over the years.  It is my job to be the matchmaker and recommend a short list professionals to each couple.  I do that by getting to know the couple and understanding what professionals share their vision and would work well together with them.  I would never, ever recommend someone whom I “know” from one email requesting to be on a “list.”

Second, I am always happy to meet new wedding professionals.  A cup of coffee is a great way to start to get to know each other, and we can share ideas, philosophies, and more… and maybe work together some day.

photo courtesy of Tyler Boye Photography