Understanding the client journey is like paving a smooth, simple path for your clients — from that very first hello all the way through to a glowing review and beyond.

When you guide your clients well through every stage, you’ll not only book more weddings — you’ll turn your clients into raving fans who refer you to their friends, family, and everyone they meet.

What We’re Covering:

There are 8 key stages of the client journey. In this lesson, you'll learn how to master each one with clear action steps you can apply today.

Don't forget to download your worksheet! It's packed with follow-up templates, response ideas, and checklists to help you put all of this into action.

1. Initial Inquiry

When a potential client reaches out, that's your first impression moment.

Action Steps:

• Respond within 24 hours if possible.

• Personalize your message: thank them, acknowledge something they shared, and express excitement.

• Confirm your availability clearly.

• Attach an information packet or welcome guide.

Pro Tip: Personalization builds connection immediately. A friendly tone + prompt response = trust.

2. Follow-Up

Most leads need multiple follow-ups. Not just one!

Action Steps:

• Plan at least 6 follow-ups after an inquiry.

• Rotate what you say: reminders, helpful tips, excitement about their date, checking in.

• Keep it light, helpful, and non-pushy.

Your worksheet includes: A guide with example follow-up messages you can customize and save!

3. Consultation

The consultation call is your opportunity to connect deeply and book the client.

Action Steps:

• Open with small talk to build comfort.

• Answer their known questions first.

• Walk through the package they’re most interested in — paint a vivid picture!

• Discuss payment options and the booking process.

• Offer to send the contract immediately after the call.

• send an email with a recap of everything you talked about (HoneyBook has an ai notetaker for calls which is super convenient)

Pro Tip: Practicing consultations with a friend builds confidence before real client calls!

4. Proposal/Quote

This can happen before or after your consultation, depending on your flow. My proposal packet is sent after the initial inquiry, and my quote is sent with their contract)

Action Steps:

• Create a clean, clear proposal template.

• Include packages, pricing, and next steps.

• Make it simple for the client to say "yes!"

Note: We'll dive deeper into proposals in the next lesson.

5. Booking Confirmation

Once they say yes, secure the booking professionally.

Action Steps:

• Send a contract and invoice immediately after the consultation.

• Confirm payment deadlines, deliverables, and expectations.

• Provide clear, written communication.

6. Pre-Event Communication

Leading up to the big day, stay in touch and stay organized.

Action Steps:

• Send check-ins and excitement emails.

• Confirm all final details (date, time, location, canvas size).

• Send payment reminders and final updates.

Personal Tip: Always confirm everything! Never assume. Double-check ceremony time, venue, and even spelling of names.

7. Event Execution

The wedding day is your time to shine.

Action Steps:

• Arrive early.

• Stay organized and flexible.

• Deliver an amazing experience for the couple and their guests.

Coming soon: Chapter 5 will cover live wedding day tips in depth!

8. Post-Event Follow-Up

Don’t just disappear after the painting is done!

Action Steps:

• Send a thank-you email or handwritten note within 1–2 weeks.

• Ask for a review or testimonial.

• Send a small personal gift if you can (like a mini watercolor portrait or thank you note).

• Stay in touch for future referrals!

Quick Recap

Mapping out your client journey isn't just about being organized. It's about building trust, exceeding expectations, and creating loyal advocates for your business.

Every stage is a new opportunity to:

• Impress

• Connect

• Serve with excellence

By refining your client journey, you'll create a seamless, professional, and joyful experience that sets you apart in the wedding industry.

Homework:

• Download your worksheet!

• Create your personal client journey plan.

• Write out your templates for inquiry responses, follow-ups, proposals, and booking confirmations.

Bonus Tip: If you don’t have a CRM yet, tools like HoneyBook are amazing for tracking client stages and automating parts of your workflow.

You are building something incredible — and every system you put in place now sets you up for lasting success.

You’ve got this!