Relocating your business can be a daunting task. Like Idon’tevenknowwheretostartmaybeIshouldstaycurledupinthisfetalpositionthisseemsnice scary… if you let it. I should know, I practically just finished unpacking the last of my shoes into a new home on the island of O’ahu.
I left a city where my business was established and past clients were referring me for a new home where nobody knew my name. Along with deciding on new curtains, I was left to decipher how to pick my business back up and get to work.
Here’s what I learned in the process:
- Spread the word: Let the world know when and where you are moving. Blog it, tweet it, change your city on LinkedIn. Okay, that last one was clearly a joke. The more people know that you are moving, the greater the odds of them suggesting connections you can make when you are there. A Facebook post from a mutual friend was how I was introduced to my new BFF, who happened to be relocating to the island of O’ahu too!
- Make friends: Friends are key. They’re there to spend time with when you could use a cocktail and a shoulder. They’ll give invaluable insight into your new city and potential brand evangelists. Jackpot! Now that our parents no longer make friends for us, meeting new people as an adult can be tough. A part-time job is a great way to meet locals and help pay your bills while you get settled. Facebook friends are often 10 times wittier in real life! (Don’t hold me to that one). Keep your heart open and you will find people you love along the way.
- Connect with local Creatives: Think less of it as “networking” and more like meeting people with similar interests. Set up coffee dates with planners and photographers you admire. If needed, offer complimentary expertise. Don’t just talk shop, be there to engage. Hey! Scheduling coffee dates are great disguises to meet potentially cool friends without being creepy.
- Get your name out: Schedule shoots for fun. Offer complimentary work to your new found friends. Blog it! Attend industry events. Update social media to reflect your new locale. It may be difficult to swallow, but consider reformatting your pricing to get a jump on business. Work. Hard. Do whatever it takes.
The fact of the matter is, starting in a new location is, in fact, just that: starting over. You’re going to have to go all Kanye on it and work harder, better, faster, stronger than everyone else in that city. With strength, dedication, and most importantly, patience you can blow them out of the water! Don’t forget you started your business once before, you can do it again! Remember to stay positive and strong, it’s worth it.
About Ashley Goodwin
Ashley Goodwin is a Wedding Photographer and aspiring gypsy with a southern accent living her dream with her Army husband in O’ahu, Hawai’i. Once an Interior Designer now lover of all things creative and fun, she adores sharing in couple’s love stories and clients who turn into amazing friends.