Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Cathy Dewalt. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Cathy, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been the best thing you’ve ever seen (or done yourself) to show a customer that you appreciate them?
To show my customers how much I appreciate them, I held a Customer Appreciation Gala to celebrate them with a gift basket, dinner, & dancing. I also offered my business partners to include an item in the gift basket to promote their business. It was a formal event during the holiday season filled with love & laughter.
Everyone was extremely grateful and can’t wait for the next event. I still get compliments on the event, and it’s been almost a year.
People are your most valued asset!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
UR Special Day Celebrates Love! One of the core values of life is to Love. Every client is VIP and treated with respect. Our designs are based on the customer’s vision.
We offer the following services:
*Planning/coordination services where we help you find vendors (photographer, catering service, invitations, venue, etc.) and set up meetings to align on all the details.
*Decorating services – We take care of all the decor for the ceremony and/or reception. Can include but not limited to backdrops, specialty tables, throne chairs, & wedding arch.
*Gift services – Gifts for your guests, bridal party & parents
Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.
Starting my business has been a dream for a long time. I founded the company in 2020 to give it time to grow before retiring from my corporate career. When I retire next year, it will be my full time job and main source of income. It was the best decision I ever made to start now. Building clientele takes time and in this industry a large percentage of customers may be a 1-time client vs. repeated. Thankfully, since I offer a variety of services, I do have repeat customers and referrals.
The other reason is funding. It’s hard to get credit and build capital for a new business and everything is based off personal credit in the beginning. Making mistakes & learning now is less painful than if it would have been my only source of income.
Learning is continual!! Don’t give up when it gets hard.
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
Word of mouth is always the best marketing tool. That’s why giving your best at all times and treating your clients right is key to your success.
I also use other platforms such as WeddingPro, IG & FB. I must say, social media (IG & FB) hasn’t been the key for me, but you have to be posting content daily or several times a day to really be effective. Sites like WeddingPro is a fee but you get customers who reach out to you if they’re interested.
I have a website as well that I’m working to drive more people to it.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.urspecialday.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathydewaltdesign/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cathydewaltdesigns
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/urspecialday/