Hello, darling!
My name is Chloe, and I’m a client relationship strategist for wedding vendors. And this, what you’re reading, is Le Blog. Each blog post answers a common question I’ve received while helping wedding pros learn how to use a CRM. And today, I want to discuss the three most common mistakes I see creatives make with their CRM—and how to fix them. Are you ready? Pour yourself a glass of something yummy, and let’s jump in.
Did you know you could create one cohesive document for your proposal, contract, and invoice? Well, you can! And it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself and your clients. When you send separate emails with package details, contract, and invoice scattered throughout, you’re sacrificing time, professionalism, and a smooth client experience. Splitting up the information feels disjointed, forcing you and your clients to keep track of multiple emails. Plus, it increases the time between the client’s initial interest and booking, which means there’s a higher chance of losing them. Ultimately, sending separate emails costs time, energy, and often, even a lead.
So what should you do instead? I’m so glad you asked! Connect your proposal, contract, and invoice into ONE form in your CRM. Yes, it’s possible. And yes, it will really save you so much time (and money!).
In this single form, your client should be able to review their package details, sign the contract, and pay their deposit immediately. This can take a warm lead to a booked client in a single sitting, without forcing anyone to dig through their inbox.
I cannot tell you how many of my clients were paying for a CRM, yet still manually emailing their clients to book a call. This might seem like a small detail, but it makes you look disorganized, delays calls (which delays bookings), and wastes you and your clients’ time.
The solution? Use your CRM’s scheduler! If you’re wondering how to use a CRM to its fullest ability… this is it. This way, clients can self-schedule at their convenience (even at 2 am when they’re deep in wedding planning mode), you can trigger automations based on scheduled appointments (more on that below!), and it just works better. If you want to provide an elevated client experience, start with the scheduler.
Workflows are the number one place I see wedding pros underutilizing their CRM. Either you’re not using workflows at all, or you’re using them wrong. And darling, I’m going to say this as nicely as I can. Workflows are the whole point of a CRM. I can’t show you how to use a CRM without talking about workflows. They’re the lifeblood.
When you’re not using workflows, your client communication is inconsistent and slow. Things fall through the cracks. Timelines get delayed. And you’re certainly not providing a cohesive, elevated client experience. Or, if you are using them, you’re probably viewing them as a glorified to-do list. In this situation, you’re still sending everything manually, wasting time, and not using your CRM for all it’s worth.
The fix is to build automated workflows that actually do what you need them to. Whatever repetitive, mind-numbing tasks you do on repeat, your CRM can do for you. It can send welcome emails once contracts are signed, deliver guides, send reminders, and the list goes on. And the best part? Your CRM might be even better at this than you are, because it never forgets and never sleeps.
Once you automate these repetitive tasks, you can focus on the part of your business you actually love: creating unforgettable experiences for your couples.
I understand how overwhelming it is to learn how to use a CRM. That’s why most wedding vendors never do. Instead, they sacrifice time, energy, and a seamless client experience by doing everything manually. But there’s a better way (and it doesn’t require you to stay up into the wee hours of the morning watching YouTube videos).
I offer completely custom Honeybook and Dubsado setups for wedding vendors who are ready to take their time and energy back. These setups help you avoid all of these mistakes! I will build your do-it-all file with your proposal, contract, and invoice, making booking effortless for you and your client. I will set up your scheduler. And I specialize in designing complete automated workflows that map your entire client journey, eliminate your busywork, and create an elevated client experience.
With my help, you can learn how to use a CRM that works for you instead of creating more manual work. Explore my Honeybook and Dubsado setup services. And when you’re ready to elevate every aspect of your business, schedule a call. I can’t wait to chat with you, darling!
