Weddingbee PRO

Soon after Weddingbee launched, I joined Ladies Who Launch – a nationwide networking organization for female entrepreneurs with a local chapter here in Manhattan.  As an introvert who never goes up to anyone I don’t know, it’s safe to say that I detest, abhor, abominate networking.  Did I mention that I hate networking? But being part of Ladies Who Launch would force me talk about Weddingbee, get used to it, and get good at it, so it was something that I knew I had to do.

At the time Ladies Who Launch was very new, and a much smaller organization than the juggernaut it’s become.  I wasn’t really looking to meet people who might help my business, but rather to hone my networking skills.  Their intimate monthly gatherings were a great fit for my homebody self. Overall it was a wonderful experience being surrounded by so many like-minded female entrepreneurs.  I’ve remained friends with a number of the fabulous women I met through the organization, including my stylist Amy Salinger, invitation designer KenzieKate, bridesmaid designer Kathlin Argiro, video invitation designer Judith of Reel Invitations, and Antonia of Wine Side Out (who recently hosted a wine tasting party for Miss Martini’s bachelorette party).

I’ve mentioned previously that the initial Weddingbee concept was to pair bloggers with wedding planners.  So before launching the site, I met with many of Manhattan’s best planners, and sold my little heart out on the Weddingbee concept.  I was always so nervous going into a meeting, and I’d be completely drained after each and every one.  But I forced myself to do it, and with lots of practice I got a little bit better each time.

I’ve since worked on cultivating a smaller group of personal relationships with people who are amazing networkers, rather than build tons of relationships.  I don’t know if networking will ever come naturally for me, but I’ve put myself out there and I think I’ve found a style that works for me.  The most important thing about networking is to never give up, go to every event even if you don’t want to, introduce yourself to people or have other people introduce you, and just keep at it.

How do you network?  Does it come naturally to you or do you struggle with it?