You know the business quote…”It’s not what you know, but who you know.” It seems to be widely used among business owners these days and it’s an idea that has seemed especially true to me recently. But as I was writing this post, I discovered that the quote has actually been updated to read “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know, and who knows you!” Brilliant.

The quote goes along so well with something I’ve been encouraging business friends to do…go talk to people! Because how will you get to know people and how will they get to know you? By getting out and actually talking to them! In my opinion, along with everyone else who has classified the above quote as a “business quote”, this can be especially beneficial in business, even more so if you’re a business owner. Let other business owners know who you are and what you do, and find out about what they do, too. This can all be accomplished by paying them a simple visit or writing them an email. Through conversation and sharing, you may find there’s opportunity for you to collaborate in the future. Or maybe even more powerful, you’ll make a connection and leave an impression, and they’ll tell others about you and refer you.

In an effort to continue to get to know business owners better, I visited a vendor friend yesterday! Beth Dawson of The Mustard Couch just recently entered the wedding industry with her vintage rentals and unique decor business. She provides pretty pieces for those looking to “dress up” their special events (weddings, showers, parties, etc) and she believes they can help “tell your story.” 

Beth has an abundant inventory of china, chairs, couches, tables, vases, goblets, cake stands, glasses, and more! I loved looking through her pieces and envisioning how we’ll use them in two upcoming projects that we’re both a part of. And do you know how we came about our business connection and collaboration? Because Beth has made an impression on other business owners, one of them encouraged me to connect with her, we started a conversation online, got to know each other, became excited about what each other does, and decided we needed to collaborate! 

My relationship with Beth has been beneficial in more than one way. I’ve gained a new friend (yay!), we’re collaborating on some big projects, and I’ve connected with other business owners because of her. I also love that I have a rental vendor to refer my couples to…because if there’s one more business idea that I can throw into the mix it’s that a good referral is almost as beneficial as doing a good job (for your clients). 

So I now know her and she knows me, and I know we will continue to support each other by allowing others to know us, too. I’ve also made it a point to get to know other business owners in my recent adventures and have found so many exciting connections in Garrett County. Let the talking and networking and knowing continue, friends! 

All the pictures in this post are of Beth’s inventory that I took during my visit yesterday…enjoy! And be sure to check out The Mustard Couch if you’re planning a wedding or upcoming event that could use some dressing. Beth is a super sweet soul and has such a passion for what she does and the pieces she collects. 🙂

Day 25 of Starting Something New.