We recently connected with Anna Anderson and have shared our conversation below.
Anna, appreciate you joining us today. So, naming is such a challenge. How did you come up with the name of your brand?
This small venue was founded in our community to help provide a space for those planning parties, corporate affairs, pop up events, course training, workshops, photography location and so much more! I carefully chose a name that had meaning behind it. We wanted to promote our second story venue that is nestled inside the historic Geneva Theatre, overlooking the downtown area and “State” Street. Gathering with others to showcase your special occasion or event; giving way to the second portion of our name “Society.” It felt right when it came together as State & Society.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I have not professionally worked in events for long, however growing up as the youngest of 4 sisters, there was always an event to plan; engagement parties, bridal & baby showers, baptisms, milestone birthdays….any of life’s special celebrations! In this regard we were always searching for small spaces to rent, but limited! We were either a small imprint on a big venue space OR it was a small room attached to a bar/restaurant (limiting you in terms of decoration, food and drink).
Working in healthcare, I pride myself with helping others and serving. My husband and I have always stuck to the motto “hand in hand” and I can’t help but think this is a true indicator of watching the client’s vision come through in our space! I love to be involved as much or little as the client needs us to be.
It has been a very fun process to meet the clients, tour the space with them and be able to hear their ideas and watch it all come together. Very rewarding to work alongside other likeminded small business owners and vendors in coordination to serve the client and help each other grow in our journey or business!
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
The power of people! It can always be a blessing or a curse. We live in a world powered by not only word of mouth but referrals through a “share button.” Social media is a tool that, in this industry, can help showcase a lot. It’s easy for me to speak with a client and show them examples through pictures or videos through social media. Often times, a client can easily reference a image from another client’s party and express their interest in learning about the caterer, planner, florist or balloon artist that made that theme thrive! Our social media pages link our website that potential clients can easily scroll, fill out the inquiry form and conversation/tours quickly follow after simply replying to their online form submission! Small business owners have great accessible opportunities to connect and advertise through the internet; it’s not just mailers, flyers, billboards and newspapers any longer.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.stateandsociety.com
- Instagram: @stateandsociety
- Facebook: State & Society
Image Credits
A&B Photography
Kat Beatty Photos
Shots by Sydney
Alivia Gray Studios
Madison Taylor
Megan Saul Photography