From the moment I decided to start my own event planning company in St. Louis (two months ago), I knew right away that I wanted to become a member of the International Special Events Society (ISES), and be an active member in their St. Louis chapter. Even though I am only three weeks into my business now, I know that I made great choice by joining this past week…not only for me, but for all my future brides and party throwers out there. I may not be raking in the dough quite yet, but I felt like joining was one of the first things I needed to do. Why, you may ask? Because I know what’s good for me!
A few years ago when I was working with a local, and very well respected, St. Louis event planner, I noticed how actively involved she and her team were with ISES. I even spent a fabulous night volunteering at their annual awards show, the Louie’s. From then on, I knew that if I ever started my own company I MUST become a part of this organization.
Sure, an ISES membership means “exclusive discounts, business opportunities and promotions and tailored educational information.” But for me, I think ISES will mean so much more. ISES provides a COMMUNITY for new and established event professionals to network, highlight great work and in the end, to LEARN from each other! And for me learning (and networking) is critical to my success!
The local chapter, from what I can tell already, is full of extremely welcoming individuals who are excited to have me aboard and anxious for me to join a committee. And I must say, their enthusiasm gets me excited too – not only to be a part of their organization but also develop the skills I need to CRUSH IT with my event planning business!
I’m looking forward to seeing everything ISES has to offer me and I hope all my fellow start-up event planners will do the same! I’ll be keeping you posted on how it’s going! Cheers for now!
