1 00:00:45,933 --> 00:00:47,203 Emily: Welcome back to the show. 2 00:00:47,208 --> 00:00:48,963 I hope you're going really, really well. 3 00:00:49,293 --> 00:00:54,843 We've just returned from a few days in the beautiful town of Orange in New South 4 00:00:54,843 --> 00:00:58,413 Wales and the autumn leaves were out. 5 00:00:58,473 --> 00:01:04,533 The houses are beautiful, the streets are leafy, and uh, there's the most. 6 00:01:05,193 --> 00:01:08,433 Gorgeous selection of shops and boutiques and cafes there, 7 00:01:08,463 --> 00:01:10,443 which was lovely to check out. 8 00:01:10,443 --> 00:01:13,653 I was a little bit sick though, so that was a bit of a shame. 9 00:01:13,658 --> 00:01:17,493 I spent some time resting and recuperating, but um, it was lovely 10 00:01:17,493 --> 00:01:21,153 just to be there and spend some time with family and friends there too. 11 00:01:21,573 --> 00:01:26,763 Now, before I get into this week's episode, I would love to invite you to 12 00:01:26,763 --> 00:01:29,673 join me for a live workshop that I'm. 13 00:01:30,409 --> 00:01:34,989 So this is happening on May the 9th, 2023. 14 00:01:34,989 --> 00:01:38,079 It's going to go for an hour from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM 15 00:01:38,084 --> 00:01:39,489 Australian Eastern standard time. 16 00:01:39,849 --> 00:01:44,109 And you're gonna join me to learn where to focus your time, your efforts, 17 00:01:44,109 --> 00:01:49,149 and your energy on the nifty little app called Instagram to connect with 18 00:01:49,149 --> 00:01:54,559 your ideal clients, become known as the go-to in your niche and to 19 00:01:54,559 --> 00:01:58,129 grow your small business in 2023. 20 00:01:58,639 --> 00:02:04,789 Now, as a mum to a seven month old, so my time is pretty limited, a couple of 21 00:02:04,794 --> 00:02:07,049 contractors help me in my business, i.e. 22 00:02:07,074 --> 00:02:10,729 I don't have a huge team, and what I like to think is a pretty simple business 23 00:02:10,729 --> 00:02:14,209 model, and it really has to be when I only work a few hours a week at the moment. 24 00:02:14,599 --> 00:02:19,139 Nothing I'm sharing requires big money, a big team, or big hours. 25 00:02:19,739 --> 00:02:25,169 I'll be sharing the strategies that continue to work year after year, along 26 00:02:25,169 --> 00:02:30,629 with the nuances that are important today as the platform continues to evolve. 27 00:02:31,109 --> 00:02:34,229 So here's what we're focusing on, how to approach Instagram with 28 00:02:34,229 --> 00:02:35,749 a clear intention and purpose. 29 00:02:36,619 --> 00:02:40,969 What should be in your profile for more connection and clicks? 30 00:02:41,269 --> 00:02:45,919 The type of posts to be sharing, reels, carousels, stories, how to bring your 31 00:02:45,919 --> 00:02:51,139 own personality to your Instagram, even when you cringe at yourself on camera. 32 00:02:51,139 --> 00:02:52,039 Oh my goodness. 33 00:02:52,069 --> 00:02:54,979 And what you need to do to maximise profits in your 34 00:02:54,979 --> 00:02:57,069 business from this powerful app. 35 00:02:57,639 --> 00:03:00,759 With an Instagram community of more than 20,000 followers, a master of 36 00:03:00,759 --> 00:03:04,509 communications degree, and having helped more than a thousand entrepreneurs to grow 37 00:03:04,509 --> 00:03:09,669 their own small business, I'm bringing you my knowledge, insights, and insider tips. 38 00:03:09,879 --> 00:03:11,679 So go ahead and buy your ticket now. 39 00:03:11,684 --> 00:03:16,659 It's $49 and uh, we're gonna spend a wonderful hour in this value 40 00:03:16,659 --> 00:03:21,724 packed, inspiring, and actionable workshop together, so you can go 41 00:03:21,724 --> 00:03:28,024 ahead to emilyosmond.com/workshop, emilyosmond.com/workshop and 42 00:03:28,024 --> 00:03:30,694 get your hands on a ticket now. 43 00:03:31,174 --> 00:03:33,184 All righty, let's get into this episode. 44 00:03:33,365 --> 00:03:37,865 Today I'm joined by Tanya Castellino, and Tanya is the founder 45 00:03:37,895 --> 00:03:39,755 of Life's Little Celebrations. 46 00:03:39,755 --> 00:03:42,965 You'll find her on Instagram at Life's Little Celebrations. 47 00:03:43,545 --> 00:03:46,155 And her business has promoted and supported kids' event 48 00:03:46,155 --> 00:03:49,155 vendors for the past 12 years. 49 00:03:49,575 --> 00:03:53,955 Over this time, she has launched the Celebrate Society Membership 50 00:03:53,955 --> 00:03:59,955 for Kids Party Suppliers, the Celebrate Conference, and a magazine 51 00:03:59,985 --> 00:04:01,875 called Celebrating Little Ones. 52 00:04:01,875 --> 00:04:05,295 This is a digital magazine, and she has grown her Instagram following 53 00:04:05,295 --> 00:04:10,270 at Life's Little Celebrations to a hundred and fifteen thousand followers, 54 00:04:10,605 --> 00:04:15,135 along with developing an amazing industry community and membership. 55 00:04:15,915 --> 00:04:19,995 Tanya has had her business featured in publications such as Donna Hay Magazine 56 00:04:19,995 --> 00:04:24,255 and The Practical Parenting Magazine, and she's also been chosen as a judge 57 00:04:24,255 --> 00:04:26,655 for the Party Stylist of the Year Awards. 58 00:04:26,660 --> 00:04:31,130 Tanya, as we discuss in this episode, is a mother of four, and she lives in Sydney. 59 00:04:31,880 --> 00:04:35,400 Previously, having worked in human resource management and secondary teaching 60 00:04:35,540 --> 00:04:40,250 before becoming a mum and delving into the much more exciting world of kids' events, 61 00:04:40,640 --> 00:04:45,140 and Tanya has evolved into a leader in the event industry in her support 62 00:04:45,170 --> 00:04:47,520 and promotion of kids' party vendors. 63 00:04:48,895 --> 00:04:53,815 In this episode, we chat about what it's like running a membership, how she 64 00:04:53,815 --> 00:04:59,635 manages that one, what's involved, how her business has evolved over the years 65 00:04:59,635 --> 00:05:05,960 from starting as a blog to then online resources and now, as the membership, 66 00:05:05,990 --> 00:05:11,480 the conference and the magazine, and we also discuss how Tanya has made this 67 00:05:11,480 --> 00:05:16,448 work as she has raised her four young children, the challenges that she's had 68 00:05:16,448 --> 00:05:22,168 along the way, her advice to others that are looking to build their own successful 69 00:05:22,168 --> 00:05:24,058 business and what's next for her. 70 00:05:24,508 --> 00:05:26,248 So enjoy this episode. 71 00:05:26,248 --> 00:05:28,618 I know that I absolutely love chatting with Tanya. 72 00:05:28,618 --> 00:05:34,093 I find her so impressive and her way of approaching business and life and 73 00:05:34,093 --> 00:05:39,983 family is something that I really enjoyed delving into with her in this episode. 74 00:05:40,103 --> 00:05:43,499 So let me hand over to Tanya Castellino. 75 00:05:48,433 --> 00:05:50,623 Tanya, thank you so much for joining me today. 76 00:05:51,193 --> 00:05:52,153 Tanya: Thank you, Emily. 77 00:05:52,153 --> 00:05:53,593 I'm so excited to be here. 78 00:05:53,598 --> 00:05:55,643 I've loved your podcast for so many years now. 79 00:05:56,143 --> 00:05:57,463 Emily: Oh, so good to hear. 80 00:05:57,493 --> 00:05:57,943 Thank you. 81 00:05:58,453 --> 00:06:00,859 And you are someone that is just super impressive. 82 00:06:00,889 --> 00:06:03,409 You have created such an amazing business. 83 00:06:03,409 --> 00:06:07,339 You're someone that is all about supporting other small business owners 84 00:06:07,643 --> 00:06:10,247 and you are a continuous learner as well. 85 00:06:10,607 --> 00:06:15,317 So how about we start off with introducing yourself and a little 86 00:06:15,317 --> 00:06:16,787 bit about your business too? 87 00:06:17,347 --> 00:06:17,827 Tanya: Yeah, sure. 88 00:06:17,847 --> 00:06:18,477 Thanks Emily. 89 00:06:18,477 --> 00:06:19,917 So, um, I'm Tanya. 90 00:06:19,917 --> 00:06:24,417 I'm based in Sydney and I run Life's Little Celebrations, which basically 91 00:06:24,417 --> 00:06:29,907 offers a membership and network for vendors in the kids' party industry. 92 00:06:29,912 --> 00:06:33,657 So small business owners who provide products or services for kids' 93 00:06:33,662 --> 00:06:38,454 celebrations and all about offering them that membership and support and network. 94 00:06:38,914 --> 00:06:40,134 Emily: Yes, so good. 95 00:06:40,134 --> 00:06:43,194 And we will dive into that because I said to you before, I haven't, I 96 00:06:43,194 --> 00:06:46,677 don't think I've really had someone on, at least for a long time, chatting 97 00:06:46,677 --> 00:06:48,117 about memberships specifically. 98 00:06:48,122 --> 00:06:49,917 So you've got lots to share on that one. 99 00:06:49,917 --> 00:06:50,817 So we'll get to that. 100 00:06:51,150 --> 00:06:54,384 But I wanna start off with where your business started. 101 00:06:54,384 --> 00:06:59,269 I know it was, uh, almost, well, probably about 12 years ago that you got started, 102 00:06:59,269 --> 00:07:01,489 your first child, you have four kids. 103 00:07:01,849 --> 00:07:05,685 Your first born was about 6 months at the time, and your kids are now, 104 00:07:05,745 --> 00:07:08,415 um, 12, 10, 8, and 6 years old. 105 00:07:08,835 --> 00:07:12,158 But take us back to the start and where it all began. 106 00:07:12,573 --> 00:07:13,263 Tanya: Yeah, definitely. 107 00:07:13,263 --> 00:07:15,753 So, you know, as a new mum, I was at home. 108 00:07:15,753 --> 00:07:18,333 I discovered the world of kids' parties and thought, look, 109 00:07:18,333 --> 00:07:19,683 I'm just gonna start a blog. 110 00:07:20,043 --> 00:07:24,093 And it's funny, even in those very early days, I was determined to start 111 00:07:24,093 --> 00:07:26,043 something that wasn't already out there. 112 00:07:26,283 --> 00:07:30,033 So there was no blog at that time that was really sharing where people 113 00:07:30,033 --> 00:07:34,293 could find small businesses that offer things for kids' parties. 114 00:07:34,293 --> 00:07:39,494 So that's what I started, no intention at all to turn it into a business and 115 00:07:39,494 --> 00:07:43,394 from there, basically what happened is I started forming relationships 116 00:07:43,394 --> 00:07:47,834 online with these business owners, um, which I think was a key component 117 00:07:47,834 --> 00:07:52,021 to my early business evolving because I built these relationships with 118 00:07:52,021 --> 00:07:55,051 these business owners, I was sharing their businesses for free on my blog. 119 00:07:55,691 --> 00:07:57,301 And I built that trust factor. 120 00:07:57,781 --> 00:08:01,681 Um, so then when I came up with the idea of, look, why don't I start a directory? 121 00:08:01,711 --> 00:08:05,877 Again, focusing on small businesses, they had that trust factor and I 122 00:08:05,882 --> 00:08:09,447 was able to launch something very simple, um, a directory that I just 123 00:08:09,452 --> 00:08:13,587 kind of made myself online, but it was advertising them online. 124 00:08:13,617 --> 00:08:17,864 Um, you know, they paid a small fee each month, and that's really how it started. 125 00:08:18,134 --> 00:08:22,541 Again as I, you know, had a six month old and then it became a community 126 00:08:22,541 --> 00:08:24,329 once I started a Facebook group. 127 00:08:24,329 --> 00:08:27,029 In those days there was no Instagram, so we started a Facebook group 128 00:08:27,209 --> 00:08:31,289 and once, once the members could start connecting and interacting, 129 00:08:31,649 --> 00:08:33,419 that's where it really blossomed. 130 00:08:33,959 --> 00:08:36,479 And I realized that they really wanted to connect. 131 00:08:36,809 --> 00:08:38,746 You know, that was where the magic was. 132 00:08:39,355 --> 00:08:42,886 And that's how it then started to evolve into more of a membership type model. 133 00:08:43,069 --> 00:08:43,519 Emily: Amazing. 134 00:08:43,699 --> 00:08:47,042 How long Tanya, was it between starting the blog, that you 135 00:08:47,042 --> 00:08:48,182 then introduced the directory? 136 00:08:49,521 --> 00:08:50,891 Tanya: Probably a year, I would say. 137 00:08:51,151 --> 00:08:54,921 I would say a year and then probably another year before I got it 138 00:08:54,926 --> 00:08:58,191 professionally designed, you know, and got a professional to put it together. 139 00:08:58,507 --> 00:09:00,152 Emily: And then the membership from there. 140 00:09:00,182 --> 00:09:01,562 How, when did that take? 141 00:09:01,562 --> 00:09:05,072 Tanya: So I would say probably three years after I started was when, you 142 00:09:05,072 --> 00:09:08,112 know, I started the Facebook group and started to evolve it more into, you 143 00:09:08,112 --> 00:09:10,713 know, let's start doing some meetups. 144 00:09:10,713 --> 00:09:16,341 By this stage I had just had my third child, so, I was, you know, just slowly 145 00:09:16,341 --> 00:09:20,571 evolving it because I was very conscious of, you know, I cannot take on too much. 146 00:09:20,571 --> 00:09:21,861 I wanna be there with my kids. 147 00:09:21,861 --> 00:09:22,681 I'm having babies. 148 00:09:23,321 --> 00:09:26,271 Um, so, you know, it was still mainly focusing on the blog, the 149 00:09:26,271 --> 00:09:29,841 directory, and then that online community and member meetups. 150 00:09:30,652 --> 00:09:35,403 and probably a year or so after that, we had our first conference, which 151 00:09:35,463 --> 00:09:37,933 was an in-person conference 2016. 152 00:09:38,293 --> 00:09:42,984 Again, hadn't been done before and that just launched into something 153 00:09:42,984 --> 00:09:46,144 amazing with, you know, we've had, uh, five conferences now. 154 00:09:46,664 --> 00:09:49,254 Bringing the kids' event vendors together. 155 00:09:49,825 --> 00:09:53,454 And also the magazine as well then came out as a next step. 156 00:09:53,454 --> 00:09:57,334 So again, it slowly evolved little by little, and people would suggest 157 00:09:57,334 --> 00:10:01,174 to me all the time as I was growing this, Tanya, do a magazine, Tanya, 158 00:10:01,179 --> 00:10:02,914 do an expo, do this and do that. 159 00:10:03,214 --> 00:10:08,317 But I was very conscious of taking things on as I could handle them, because I was 160 00:10:08,317 --> 00:10:12,417 having, you know, all these young kids, I had, uh, four kids within six years. 161 00:10:12,897 --> 00:10:15,127 So it was balancing all of that as, as well. 162 00:10:16,297 --> 00:10:17,947 Emily: So how did you do that, Tanya? 163 00:10:17,947 --> 00:10:21,637 What did that look like in terms of when were you working? 164 00:10:21,797 --> 00:10:23,667 Did you have any support with. 165 00:10:23,732 --> 00:10:26,612 the kids' care or was that you predominantly doing that? 166 00:10:26,612 --> 00:10:27,812 Talk to us what that looked like. 167 00:10:28,292 --> 00:10:31,732 Tanya: Yeah, so I had decided that I wanted the kids home until 168 00:10:31,732 --> 00:10:34,527 they started preschool at age 3. 169 00:10:34,527 --> 00:10:38,580 So what that meant was, I could really only work in their nap times. 170 00:10:38,580 --> 00:10:42,300 I did a lot of work at night, and then as they got that little bit older, I 171 00:10:42,305 --> 00:10:45,630 was able to do some work even when they were awake, but they were playing and 172 00:10:45,635 --> 00:10:47,130 I had to get over the guilt of that. 173 00:10:47,135 --> 00:10:47,610 Sometimes. 174 00:10:47,680 --> 00:10:50,790 I, I did feel a little bit bad, then I thought, you know what? 175 00:10:50,795 --> 00:10:52,290 I am still here with them. 176 00:10:52,710 --> 00:10:54,420 I'm able to attend to their needs. 177 00:10:54,420 --> 00:10:56,700 They're playing, and I could still work around them. 178 00:10:57,982 --> 00:11:02,602 So I wasn't able to have any kind of kid free days to work on my 179 00:11:02,602 --> 00:11:04,452 business until maybe 2 years ago. 180 00:11:05,172 --> 00:11:09,622 Um, when my youngest started, I know, when my youngest started preschool, and then 181 00:11:09,622 --> 00:11:11,592 this year they're all finally at school. 182 00:11:12,002 --> 00:11:14,932 So it really was, in those early days, working in small 183 00:11:14,932 --> 00:11:17,182 chunks I think was the secret. 184 00:11:17,530 --> 00:11:22,173 And then once I was pregnant with my third child, I brought in a VA. 185 00:11:22,233 --> 00:11:24,753 I realised I could not keep doing this on my own. 186 00:11:25,280 --> 00:11:29,161 And even though I wasn't making a lot of money at that stage, I realised that 187 00:11:29,166 --> 00:11:33,620 if I want to continue this business and actually bring in more income, I 188 00:11:33,620 --> 00:11:35,890 have to invest the money into a VA. 189 00:11:35,890 --> 00:11:37,070 I could not do it. 190 00:11:37,070 --> 00:11:40,250 I was lying on the couch, you know, a few months pregnant, going, there 191 00:11:40,250 --> 00:11:42,260 is no way I could do this on my own. 192 00:11:43,010 --> 00:11:46,743 So I had to start outsourcing to be able to continue it, and 193 00:11:46,743 --> 00:11:50,433 still be able to be there for my kids, but also have that help. 194 00:11:50,433 --> 00:11:53,627 So I've used a virtual assistance over the years, to help in that way. 195 00:11:53,987 --> 00:11:56,207 Emily: And what did you start outsourcing Tanya? 196 00:11:56,630 --> 00:11:59,930 Tanya: So I think from memory, cuz this was quite a few years ago. 197 00:11:59,930 --> 00:12:02,540 Yeah, I think it was my social media at that point. 198 00:12:02,540 --> 00:12:06,180 I think that was the easiest thing to, to start , outsourcing, getting 199 00:12:06,185 --> 00:12:09,360 them to do my posts for me because that was a big part of my business, 200 00:12:09,660 --> 00:12:11,220 promoting my members online. 201 00:12:11,680 --> 00:12:14,130 So I started outsourcing that as well. 202 00:12:14,130 --> 00:12:16,185 As well as some of the blogs, as well. 203 00:12:16,575 --> 00:12:16,905 Emily: Yeah. 204 00:12:17,205 --> 00:12:17,595 Okay. 205 00:12:18,045 --> 00:12:18,345 And. 206 00:12:18,465 --> 00:12:21,615 How did you make decisions and what did you learn? 207 00:12:21,615 --> 00:12:25,275 I guess when there was no doubt, lots of ideas and lots of other 208 00:12:25,275 --> 00:12:29,025 people's suggestions around what you could do and ideas for the business. 209 00:12:29,265 --> 00:12:30,705 How did you work out? 210 00:12:30,945 --> 00:12:34,815 What were things to say yes to and what were things to say not quite yet to? 211 00:12:34,815 --> 00:12:38,985 Did you find, I guess it was based on how many hours commitment it 212 00:12:38,985 --> 00:12:40,305 would be if you had to travel? 213 00:12:40,725 --> 00:12:44,955 Just curious to hear what parameters you put in place around your decisions when 214 00:12:44,955 --> 00:12:46,515 you knew that time was more limited. 215 00:12:46,912 --> 00:12:50,782 Tanya: So I think one of the key factors was always trying to do something that 216 00:12:50,782 --> 00:12:52,822 didn't, that wasn't already being done. 217 00:12:52,822 --> 00:12:56,422 So, for example, when people were suggesting the magazine, at that time, 218 00:12:56,422 --> 00:13:01,162 there were a few other magazines already existing that did focus on celebrations 219 00:13:01,162 --> 00:13:05,317 and I really didn't see the need for, how I could do something different 220 00:13:05,347 --> 00:13:07,007 and, and why would I , go into that. 221 00:13:07,007 --> 00:13:08,027 So I left that. 222 00:13:08,277 --> 00:13:12,287 Until it came to a point where there was a bit of a change in the market and people 223 00:13:12,287 --> 00:13:16,237 stopped doing as many magazines, that was when I realized, okay, let's do it. 224 00:13:16,237 --> 00:13:19,117 Let's fill this gap and give my members the opportunity to 225 00:13:19,117 --> 00:13:20,617 be showcased in a magazine. 226 00:13:20,730 --> 00:13:21,720 , same with the expo. 227 00:13:21,720 --> 00:13:23,670 People were suggesting for me to do expos. 228 00:13:23,675 --> 00:13:27,750 There was already a great expo round at that time, and I didn't 229 00:13:27,750 --> 00:13:28,860 feel that an expert would light. 230 00:13:29,470 --> 00:13:32,690 Whereas a conference I knew that that would light me up. 231 00:13:32,690 --> 00:13:37,100 Bringing people together with amazing speakers that they could learn from 232 00:13:37,105 --> 00:13:39,870 and listen to that was what excited me. 233 00:13:39,870 --> 00:13:43,415 So I think it was really looking at what would I enjoy doing? 234 00:13:43,415 --> 00:13:45,035 What would really inspire me? 235 00:13:45,035 --> 00:13:48,315 What would I be good at doing and also what wasn't already 236 00:13:48,315 --> 00:13:49,485 being done at the time. 237 00:13:49,485 --> 00:13:53,395 I didn't just wanna try and do a copycat of something and it's something like 238 00:13:53,395 --> 00:13:57,215 I always tell my members as well you know, always try and look at what is 239 00:13:57,215 --> 00:14:00,575 something unique that you can bring rather than just copying whatever 240 00:14:00,580 --> 00:14:01,985 else is, is out there in business. 241 00:14:02,455 --> 00:14:03,895 Emily: Such good advice. 242 00:14:04,195 --> 00:14:05,275 Oh, thank you for sharing that. 243 00:14:05,275 --> 00:14:07,685 So looking at what's unique and then also what you're actually 244 00:14:07,690 --> 00:14:09,985 excited to create, cuz that's what's gonna fuel you, isn't it? 245 00:14:10,195 --> 00:14:11,305 Tanya: Mm, a hundred percent. 246 00:14:11,310 --> 00:14:13,885 And when you are taking time away from your kids and you have little 247 00:14:13,890 --> 00:14:15,685 kids, your time is so valuable. 248 00:14:15,690 --> 00:14:18,685 You do not wanna be wasting it on things that are not gonna light you up. 249 00:14:19,045 --> 00:14:21,445 And not going to, you know, be your zone of genius. 250 00:14:21,445 --> 00:14:24,325 So I was really looking at, okay, where can I bring the most value? 251 00:14:24,835 --> 00:14:28,375 And if I'm gonna take this time away from my kids, what is going to be worth doing? 252 00:14:28,375 --> 00:14:32,785 Of course, you have to look at the profit profitability as well to see what will 253 00:14:32,785 --> 00:14:36,535 bring in the right amount of income for the hours you're putting in as well. 254 00:14:37,165 --> 00:14:37,915 Emily: Absolutely. 255 00:14:38,425 --> 00:14:41,095 So what does your business look like now, Tanya? 256 00:14:41,095 --> 00:14:43,165 Could you break down the revenue streams? 257 00:14:43,165 --> 00:14:48,005 And then also how the magazine and conference work in terms of. 258 00:14:48,845 --> 00:14:51,395 How they fit into the membership, if they're for members only 259 00:14:51,395 --> 00:14:52,235 and, and that type of thing. 260 00:14:52,235 --> 00:14:55,175 So it's different revenue streams and projects in the business. 261 00:14:55,595 --> 00:14:56,255 Tanya: Yes, definitely. 262 00:14:56,260 --> 00:14:59,375 So the main revenue stream would be the Celebrate Society, 263 00:14:59,380 --> 00:15:00,395 which is the membership. 264 00:15:00,395 --> 00:15:03,755 And we have two different main levels that members can join on. 265 00:15:03,755 --> 00:15:05,015 So that is where members can. 266 00:15:05,410 --> 00:15:09,370 Come together, they can network both online and in person and in the event 267 00:15:09,370 --> 00:15:11,350 industry, networking is so important. 268 00:15:11,350 --> 00:15:12,850 So that is a big focus of it. 269 00:15:13,180 --> 00:15:17,110 We have masterclass for our members, which Emily, you have been a wonderful guest on. 270 00:15:17,110 --> 00:15:21,110 Yes and we also have Member Zooms for them to network and discuss ideas. 271 00:15:21,510 --> 00:15:22,770 And then we also have. 272 00:15:23,190 --> 00:15:27,960 A magazine which I'll go into, and also being able to promote them online. 273 00:15:27,960 --> 00:15:32,040 So on my Instagram page, on the blog, we do Easter and Christmas 274 00:15:32,045 --> 00:15:34,080 special promotions for them. 275 00:15:34,410 --> 00:15:39,180 So really giving them that overall, you know, networking, community 276 00:15:39,450 --> 00:15:41,670 learning as well as promotion. 277 00:15:41,850 --> 00:15:43,530 The other revenue stream. 278 00:15:43,910 --> 00:15:45,080 Is the magazine. 279 00:15:45,080 --> 00:15:47,120 So this is mainly for members. 280 00:15:47,120 --> 00:15:50,960 So our members come together and they collaborate on amazing photo shoots. 281 00:15:51,110 --> 00:15:51,470 Emily: Oh my gosh. 282 00:15:52,410 --> 00:15:53,480 Everyone needs to have a look at your Instagram. 283 00:15:53,480 --> 00:15:54,200 Yes. 284 00:15:54,307 --> 00:15:55,327 amazing photos. 285 00:15:55,667 --> 00:15:56,617 Tanya: Oh, thank you. 286 00:15:56,857 --> 00:15:58,207 Look, it's all credit to my members. 287 00:15:58,207 --> 00:15:59,467 They are so incredible. 288 00:15:59,467 --> 00:16:02,167 And the photo shoots really give them the chance to, you 289 00:16:02,167 --> 00:16:03,427 know, let their creativity go. 290 00:16:03,427 --> 00:16:03,697 Wow. 291 00:16:03,907 --> 00:16:08,377 Create an amazing party, themes, cakes, invitations, to really inspire 292 00:16:08,382 --> 00:16:09,997 people and showcase what they can do. 293 00:16:10,247 --> 00:16:14,622 Now members can pay to advertise in that magazine and we also 294 00:16:14,622 --> 00:16:15,912 have people who are not. 295 00:16:16,672 --> 00:16:21,072 So, for example, venues or restaurants or bigger party supplies who can 296 00:16:21,072 --> 00:16:22,772 also pay to be in the magazine. 297 00:16:22,982 --> 00:16:26,522 So it does bring in income through the advertisements as well. 298 00:16:26,832 --> 00:16:30,072 The actual magazine is free for people to view, but the revenue 299 00:16:30,072 --> 00:16:31,362 comes in through the advertising. 300 00:16:31,367 --> 00:16:34,632 But it is a really, it's one of my, one of my members' most favorite things 301 00:16:34,662 --> 00:16:38,142 is the magazine and the collaborations that they get to be a part of. 302 00:16:38,482 --> 00:16:39,232 Emily: Mm. 303 00:16:39,232 --> 00:16:42,857 And that's value add I can see for them because it's creating 304 00:16:42,862 --> 00:16:45,137 those connections, bringing them together, creating those assets. 305 00:16:45,137 --> 00:16:46,127 So the videos and 306 00:16:46,127 --> 00:16:47,027 the photos and no doubt. 307 00:16:47,032 --> 00:16:47,967 The Instagram, yes. 308 00:16:48,017 --> 00:16:51,077 Uh, videos, stories, reels, TikTok, if they're on there, a hundred 309 00:16:51,077 --> 00:16:52,997 percent, from those shoots too. 310 00:16:53,177 --> 00:16:53,507 Mm. 311 00:16:53,717 --> 00:16:54,317 Tanya: A hundred percent. 312 00:16:54,317 --> 00:16:57,587 Because to put together your own photo shoot to showcase your business 313 00:16:57,617 --> 00:16:59,027 would cost, you know, a lot of money. 314 00:16:59,027 --> 00:16:59,927 Hours of work. 315 00:17:00,287 --> 00:17:04,382 This gives them the chance to, you know, have easy collaboration, photo shoots, 316 00:17:04,382 --> 00:17:08,462 high quality photography, and then they get shared not just in our magazine, 317 00:17:08,462 --> 00:17:12,872 but everyone in the photo shoot shares each other's work on their own pages. 318 00:17:12,872 --> 00:17:16,652 So again, it's that extra promotion and then the conference. 319 00:17:16,682 --> 00:17:20,362 So again, another income stream would be wonderful conferences, which 320 00:17:20,362 --> 00:17:21,772 ha we have been doing in Sydney. 321 00:17:22,042 --> 00:17:24,802 But I will be having an event in Melbourne in October, which 322 00:17:24,802 --> 00:17:26,062 I'll be having you out Emily. 323 00:17:27,792 --> 00:17:29,392 Emily: Everyone keep an eye out for that one in Melbourne. 324 00:17:29,937 --> 00:17:33,447 Tanya: And these are open to anyone in the event industry. 325 00:17:33,447 --> 00:17:36,297 So they're open to our members and non-members. 326 00:17:36,667 --> 00:17:39,157 We even had someone who come along who wasn't even in the event 327 00:17:39,157 --> 00:17:42,277 industry, but she was in branding and she wanted to meet other business 328 00:17:42,277 --> 00:17:43,567 owners in the event industry. 329 00:17:44,017 --> 00:17:47,107 And it's really a day to come together to learn from amazing 330 00:17:47,222 --> 00:17:49,772 speakers to network, be inspired. 331 00:17:50,202 --> 00:17:53,652 And there really is nothing else like this for vendors in the kids event industry. 332 00:17:53,652 --> 00:17:55,332 So I love being able to host that. 333 00:17:55,702 --> 00:17:58,877 And it's just a great way to bring people together from all around 334 00:17:58,877 --> 00:18:00,889 Australia to really connect and learn. 335 00:18:01,114 --> 00:18:03,750 Emily: What have you learned from running the conference, Tanya? 336 00:18:03,750 --> 00:18:06,300 You've run five, is it now? 337 00:18:06,300 --> 00:18:06,390 Tanya: Yes. 338 00:18:06,390 --> 00:18:08,760 Emily: What are some of the learnings you've had from that or tips for 339 00:18:08,765 --> 00:18:12,340 other people that are looking at putting together a conference for 340 00:18:12,340 --> 00:18:14,680 their audience, their community? 341 00:18:14,690 --> 00:18:15,920 What have you got to share from them? 342 00:18:16,582 --> 00:18:20,022 Tanya: So I would say if you are planning an event like this in person, 343 00:18:20,022 --> 00:18:23,382 I think it's really important to think about the experience that you want to 344 00:18:23,382 --> 00:18:28,452 provide, because I'm all about people walking away with a wonderful experience. 345 00:18:28,692 --> 00:18:28,782 Yeah. 346 00:18:28,812 --> 00:18:30,672 And so it's about the atmosphere. 347 00:18:30,672 --> 00:18:31,752 It's about the the dec. 348 00:18:32,017 --> 00:18:34,297 Even though yes, we are in the event industry, so we do 349 00:18:34,302 --> 00:18:35,707 decorate the room beautifully. 350 00:18:36,127 --> 00:18:39,667 But I think giving people that experience that when they come in, you have thought 351 00:18:39,667 --> 00:18:41,587 of them there's beautiful table settings. 352 00:18:41,587 --> 00:18:46,847 There's those little touches on the table, in the gift bags, in the welcome, those 353 00:18:46,852 --> 00:18:50,177 little things so that when they walk away they feel that they've been a bit spoiled. 354 00:18:50,177 --> 00:18:50,237 Yeah. 355 00:18:50,627 --> 00:18:54,407 I think that is a beautiful touch because as business owners we're also busy. 356 00:18:54,407 --> 00:18:55,577 It takes a lot Yes. 357 00:18:55,637 --> 00:18:57,587 To take a whole day out to attend something. 358 00:18:57,592 --> 00:18:57,837 Yes. 359 00:18:57,977 --> 00:19:02,327 So I think you want, you want them to walk away feeling like they have been spoiled. 360 00:19:02,497 --> 00:19:03,017 Emily: Mm-hmm. 361 00:19:03,157 --> 00:19:06,337 Tanya: And then I would say to be able to facilitate great 362 00:19:06,637 --> 00:19:09,907 networking and discussions as part of the day is really important. 363 00:19:10,277 --> 00:19:13,547 Because that is a big part of why they're attending to meet other 364 00:19:13,597 --> 00:19:16,314 business owners and then the speakers. 365 00:19:16,334 --> 00:19:21,264 So to be very very careful in who you choose as a speaker. 366 00:19:21,724 --> 00:19:26,549 Listen to them on podcasts, listen to them online, and really try and 367 00:19:26,554 --> 00:19:30,899 bring together an amazing array of speakers to inspire your guests as well. 368 00:19:30,959 --> 00:19:31,569 Emily: Mm-hmm. 369 00:19:32,219 --> 00:19:33,629 Lots of great tips, Tanya. 370 00:19:33,629 --> 00:19:34,079 Thank you. 371 00:19:34,199 --> 00:19:36,209 That's, no, that's, I'm, I'm similar with that too. 372 00:19:36,209 --> 00:19:40,249 I like to start with how I want people to feel like at my retreats or the day out. 373 00:19:40,254 --> 00:19:40,289 Yes. 374 00:19:40,289 --> 00:19:41,429 Like, what is that feeling? 375 00:19:41,429 --> 00:19:42,059 And then how can. 376 00:19:42,584 --> 00:19:46,244 Deliver on that through those, just thinking through those details. 377 00:19:46,634 --> 00:19:47,054 Tanya: Definitely. 378 00:19:47,054 --> 00:19:49,904 And also seeing the conference as a marketing, you know, 379 00:19:49,904 --> 00:19:51,014 any event that you're doing. 380 00:19:51,014 --> 00:19:51,104 Yes. 381 00:19:51,104 --> 00:19:52,634 It is a marketing exercise. 382 00:19:52,994 --> 00:19:53,234 Yes. 383 00:19:53,264 --> 00:19:55,424 It is a chance for you to showcase your brand. 384 00:19:55,424 --> 00:19:55,514 Yes. 385 00:19:55,514 --> 00:19:57,824 Whether it is people there and they're filming and they're gonna 386 00:19:57,824 --> 00:19:59,354 share it on Instagram stories. 387 00:19:59,359 --> 00:19:59,424 Mm. 388 00:19:59,714 --> 00:20:02,084 Or you know, they're thinking about joining your membership 389 00:20:02,089 --> 00:20:02,984 or working with you. 390 00:20:02,984 --> 00:20:06,494 These are in-person opportunities, which are amazing ways to 391 00:20:06,494 --> 00:20:07,729 really showcase your brand. 392 00:20:07,729 --> 00:20:11,129 So I think, any money spent in how you present your business on the 393 00:20:11,129 --> 00:20:12,989 day, don't be shy to speak about it. 394 00:20:12,989 --> 00:20:16,179 To promote your own self on the day is also important. 395 00:20:16,569 --> 00:20:17,739 Emily: Mm, brilliant. 396 00:20:18,429 --> 00:20:21,689 I would love to hear, Tanya, a little bit more about your membership 397 00:20:21,689 --> 00:20:25,539 and what you've learned from that over the years, and specifically 398 00:20:25,539 --> 00:20:27,459 things that you might have changed. 399 00:20:27,489 --> 00:20:30,542 Because I know for me, I've, I'm always experimenting and looking at 400 00:20:30,592 --> 00:20:31,882 what's working, what's not working? 401 00:20:31,882 --> 00:20:33,022 What can I do better here? 402 00:20:33,022 --> 00:20:35,002 What are some ideas, what's changing? 403 00:20:35,432 --> 00:20:37,772 What does that look like for you and your membership over the years? 404 00:20:37,777 --> 00:20:39,152 What, how have things evolved for you? 405 00:20:39,767 --> 00:20:40,067 Tanya: Yeah. 406 00:20:40,067 --> 00:20:43,957 So firstly, I guess I would say just to the first part of your question 407 00:20:43,957 --> 00:20:46,818 about one of the most important things with the membership, I would have 408 00:20:46,823 --> 00:20:50,347 to say is the relationships that you have with your members so that they 409 00:20:50,347 --> 00:20:52,117 don't feel like they're just a number. 410 00:20:52,287 --> 00:20:52,662 Yeah. 411 00:20:52,662 --> 00:20:55,477 , because I do feel that, you know, I try to get to know my 412 00:20:55,482 --> 00:20:57,187 members, they're businesses. 413 00:20:57,547 --> 00:20:59,587 You know, send them a DM on Instagram. 414 00:20:59,917 --> 00:20:59,977 Yeah. 415 00:20:59,977 --> 00:21:03,457 And those little personal touches can really help a lot with your member 416 00:21:03,457 --> 00:21:05,137 relationships, your member retention. 417 00:21:05,597 --> 00:21:08,897 And I know that I've been in other memberships, not yours, Emily, but others 418 00:21:08,897 --> 00:21:10,577 that, you know, I have felt like a number. 419 00:21:10,997 --> 00:21:11,057 Yeah. 420 00:21:11,117 --> 00:21:14,282 And you do feel that you're not of value and I guess you never want 421 00:21:14,282 --> 00:21:15,572 your members to feel like that. 422 00:21:15,972 --> 00:21:17,502 Definitely it has evolved over the years. 423 00:21:17,502 --> 00:21:21,402 So for example, the member meetups to start off with was a big change 424 00:21:21,402 --> 00:21:25,272 for us because we did see that people were wanting to meet in person. 425 00:21:25,302 --> 00:21:25,392 Yes. 426 00:21:25,722 --> 00:21:27,552 So that was something new that we brought in. 427 00:21:28,032 --> 00:21:28,452 And then even- 428 00:21:28,452 --> 00:21:29,652 Emily: Do you still do them Tanya? 429 00:21:29,802 --> 00:21:30,222 Tanya: Yes. 430 00:21:30,227 --> 00:21:30,672 Yes, we do. 431 00:21:30,677 --> 00:21:31,092 Yes. 432 00:21:31,097 --> 00:21:31,102 Yes. 433 00:21:31,107 --> 00:21:32,082 Hundred percent, yes. 434 00:21:32,082 --> 00:21:34,722 So again, some people love those member meetups. 435 00:21:34,872 --> 00:21:36,852 Some people prefer to meet online. 436 00:21:37,437 --> 00:21:40,947 But others just love that because you stand out, you're more memorable when 437 00:21:40,947 --> 00:21:42,627 you meet other businesses in person. 438 00:21:42,627 --> 00:21:42,687 Yeah. 439 00:21:42,887 --> 00:21:43,377 Yeah. 440 00:21:43,432 --> 00:21:46,552 And then I would say something new that we've just started this 441 00:21:46,552 --> 00:21:49,582 year is the Member Zooms online. 442 00:21:49,587 --> 00:21:50,012 Mm-hmm. 443 00:21:50,272 --> 00:21:55,222 So this is, this came about because during the member meetups in person, I would 444 00:21:55,222 --> 00:21:58,287 notice people would be just discussing things, great challenges, you know, 445 00:21:58,777 --> 00:22:02,667 challengers, sharing ideas, and I thought we need to make this more available to our 446 00:22:02,667 --> 00:22:04,647 members no matter where they are located. 447 00:22:04,652 --> 00:22:05,017 Yeah. 448 00:22:05,397 --> 00:22:08,217 Or you know, they might be home with a newborn baby and can't come out. 449 00:22:08,637 --> 00:22:11,907 So the member Zooms are something new we've brought on to help our members. 450 00:22:11,912 --> 00:22:13,232 Start connecting more. 451 00:22:13,512 --> 00:22:16,992 We also did a member survey to help get those ideas and we found that 452 00:22:16,992 --> 00:22:20,202 members were wanting to connect with members from other states. 453 00:22:20,202 --> 00:22:22,452 They weren't just wanting to connect with people in their own city. 454 00:22:22,812 --> 00:22:24,102 They wanted to branch out. 455 00:22:24,102 --> 00:22:26,892 And so that is our chance to, uh, to help them do that. 456 00:22:27,572 --> 00:22:30,032 And even the masterclass have evolved over the years. 457 00:22:30,032 --> 00:22:34,562 Way back, you know, we used to do a masterclass that was purely tech. 458 00:22:34,562 --> 00:22:37,172 So we'd have a guest come online in our Facebook group Yes. 459 00:22:37,172 --> 00:22:38,892 And they would purely be typing Oh. 460 00:22:39,322 --> 00:22:39,682 Yes, yes. 461 00:22:39,842 --> 00:22:41,122 Would purely be typing. 462 00:22:41,122 --> 00:22:45,292 And then now we have a full-blown video masterclass because, 463 00:22:45,292 --> 00:22:46,522 you know, video has evolved. 464 00:22:46,522 --> 00:22:48,082 Everyone wants video. 465 00:22:48,382 --> 00:22:52,597 And so even, again, reacting to, what people are how people are receiving 466 00:22:52,602 --> 00:22:55,147 content and how people are engaging. 467 00:22:55,447 --> 00:22:58,897 And so, yeah, we've moved to video more for the membership as well with that. 468 00:22:59,304 --> 00:22:59,814 Emily: So, good. 469 00:22:59,814 --> 00:23:04,459 Tanya, and I love how, and this I think a really great learning as well. 470 00:23:04,459 --> 00:23:08,879 Is that the way an online course, especially a membership I think the 471 00:23:08,884 --> 00:23:12,029 way that it starts, it's not gonna look the same in a year or two years 472 00:23:12,029 --> 00:23:15,119 or three years, is it, it's just always what do the members want? 473 00:23:15,119 --> 00:23:18,179 What, how is the market or the technology changing? 474 00:23:18,219 --> 00:23:20,870 Have you seen as well a shift in the type of members that you've had? 475 00:23:20,875 --> 00:23:23,309 Did you always start with that focus on kids party vendors? 476 00:23:23,605 --> 00:23:24,765 Tanya: I, I always did. 477 00:23:24,765 --> 00:23:25,095 Yes. 478 00:23:25,095 --> 00:23:27,195 I have stuck to just kids' party supplies. 479 00:23:27,195 --> 00:23:29,595 And again, people have come to me and said, Tanya, why don't you 480 00:23:29,595 --> 00:23:32,955 branch out and do the whole event industry or do weddings as well. 481 00:23:33,495 --> 00:23:37,095 But again, and I know you've spoken Emily about niching down, I have 482 00:23:37,095 --> 00:23:40,610 found that it has been so good to niche down to that specific community. 483 00:23:40,800 --> 00:23:41,290 Yeah. 484 00:23:41,300 --> 00:23:44,810 Cause then you can serve them for their particular needs, even though some of 485 00:23:44,810 --> 00:23:48,920 them do service weddings as well, and they do service adult celebrations. 486 00:23:49,370 --> 00:23:53,090 I love having that niche because you can really target the right members. 487 00:23:53,240 --> 00:23:53,420 Mm. 488 00:23:53,480 --> 00:23:54,260 You can serve them. 489 00:23:54,265 --> 00:23:56,290 The masterclass are geared towards them as well. 490 00:23:56,949 --> 00:24:00,309 And then I would say again, in our members, we have members who've been, 491 00:24:00,669 --> 00:24:02,169 some of them are brand new in business. 492 00:24:02,169 --> 00:24:05,769 Some of them have been around for 10 years, and they all get different 493 00:24:05,769 --> 00:24:07,599 aspects from the membership. 494 00:24:07,599 --> 00:24:10,329 So I like to tell our members it's like a grazing platter. 495 00:24:10,709 --> 00:24:11,129 Yes. 496 00:24:11,134 --> 00:24:13,089 That you almost get to pick and choose. 497 00:24:13,089 --> 00:24:14,799 And I think any membership is like this. 498 00:24:14,799 --> 00:24:15,529 Yes, exactly. 499 00:24:15,589 --> 00:24:17,929 You offer different opportunities that are gonna suit different 500 00:24:17,929 --> 00:24:19,489 members and you would find the same. 501 00:24:19,489 --> 00:24:22,549 Emily, you would have some members who really love your in-person things. 502 00:24:22,549 --> 00:24:23,419 Some people who love. 503 00:24:23,919 --> 00:24:26,499 You know the program and working through it themselves. 504 00:24:26,499 --> 00:24:28,959 Some people who just love to come on live with you. 505 00:24:29,019 --> 00:24:29,259 Yes. 506 00:24:29,319 --> 00:24:32,289 So I think it's so important to offer those different ways 507 00:24:32,559 --> 00:24:34,029 that members can benefit. 508 00:24:34,239 --> 00:24:34,449 Mm-hmm. 509 00:24:34,449 --> 00:24:35,769 And let them pick and choose. 510 00:24:36,039 --> 00:24:39,849 And I'm always reminding my members don't feel that you have to come to everything. 511 00:24:40,149 --> 00:24:40,599 Emily: Yes. 512 00:24:40,599 --> 00:24:42,549 You don't have everything on the grazing product. 513 00:24:42,549 --> 00:24:43,269 Tanya: That's right. 514 00:24:43,269 --> 00:24:43,909 Exactly. 515 00:24:43,909 --> 00:24:45,039 Just pick the stuff you like. 516 00:24:45,249 --> 00:24:45,909 That's right. 517 00:24:45,909 --> 00:24:47,859 I always say it's not a three course meal. 518 00:24:47,859 --> 00:24:48,819 You pick and choose. 519 00:24:49,209 --> 00:24:52,149 Take what you want and don't feel bad if there's some months where 520 00:24:52,149 --> 00:24:54,279 you can hardly get involved at all. 521 00:24:54,339 --> 00:24:54,429 Yeah. 522 00:24:54,429 --> 00:24:54,669 You know? 523 00:24:54,669 --> 00:24:56,889 Emily: And this is the thing, Hey cuz I'm like this in other 524 00:24:56,889 --> 00:25:00,722 memberships, I'm part of too, and I, I like to try and encourage. 525 00:25:01,422 --> 00:25:05,502 Like a year long view or a Yes, a, a longer term view, because there's 526 00:25:05,502 --> 00:25:09,402 gonna be times in our lives as people that are members within memberships 527 00:25:09,402 --> 00:25:12,962 that we just don't get to do much in the membership, but the next month 528 00:25:12,962 --> 00:25:16,232 we might be going to all the calls or some of the calls, you know, so I 529 00:25:16,232 --> 00:25:19,792 like to think of it as a longer term involvement, longer term approach, longer 530 00:25:19,792 --> 00:25:22,122 term commitment than just one month. 531 00:25:22,372 --> 00:25:26,482 Tanya: And I think because some people do join, hoping to, you know, have some 532 00:25:26,482 --> 00:25:28,942 big transformation within 1, 2, 3 months. 533 00:25:29,182 --> 00:25:29,362 Yeah. 534 00:25:29,392 --> 00:25:32,507 But I've found that my members who have stuck through, now, I have members 535 00:25:32,507 --> 00:25:34,667 who've stayed even for seven years now. 536 00:25:34,727 --> 00:25:35,507 Emily: Yes, Tanya. 537 00:25:36,537 --> 00:25:39,047 Tanya: And you know, they have grown and they probably don't even need 538 00:25:39,047 --> 00:25:43,127 the promotion anymore, but they see how important it is when you're in 539 00:25:43,127 --> 00:25:47,897 business to be connected in, you know, in a network to be supported. 540 00:25:48,257 --> 00:25:51,317 And of course, they're way, they are so busy, they've built big businesses. 541 00:25:51,317 --> 00:25:55,077 They're not there at every call or every meet up, but it's that consistency 542 00:25:55,077 --> 00:25:59,167 of sticking with their membership, sticking with a network that helps 543 00:25:59,167 --> 00:26:02,357 your name get out there, and you can draw on them whenever you need. 544 00:26:02,777 --> 00:26:05,807 So when you do need, oh look, I do need to learn about this topic. 545 00:26:05,807 --> 00:26:08,627 Oh, I do need to ask Tanya or Emily about that question. 546 00:26:08,957 --> 00:26:09,887 They can jump in. 547 00:26:10,427 --> 00:26:12,497 And I think it's just a no-brainer, honestly. 548 00:26:12,497 --> 00:26:12,557 Yeah. 549 00:26:12,587 --> 00:26:15,107 You know, that kind of support network when you're in business, 550 00:26:15,137 --> 00:26:16,727 I think it's so, so important. 551 00:26:17,087 --> 00:26:17,717 Emily: Mm. 552 00:26:17,874 --> 00:26:19,614 , I wanna ask you about your member meetups. 553 00:26:19,614 --> 00:26:20,424 How do they work? 554 00:26:20,424 --> 00:26:21,324 What do you do there? 555 00:26:21,354 --> 00:26:23,774 How are they running and how have they changed over time? 556 00:26:23,774 --> 00:26:24,304 If at all? 557 00:26:24,447 --> 00:26:28,142 Tanya: Yeah, so look, we, we have kept them pretty social based. 558 00:26:28,142 --> 00:26:28,202 Yeah. 559 00:26:28,502 --> 00:26:32,442 So we, we have mainly kept them, you know, quite casual giving members 560 00:26:32,447 --> 00:26:36,372 a chance to really come together, socialize, you know, we encourage them 561 00:26:36,377 --> 00:26:39,972 to talk about business ideas, business challenges, introduce themselves. 562 00:26:40,402 --> 00:26:43,462 We have had some where we have us as speaker to come. 563 00:26:43,822 --> 00:26:43,882 Yeah. 564 00:26:43,912 --> 00:26:48,342 So, we we've had a q and a if it's in Sydney, because I'm based here 565 00:26:48,342 --> 00:26:51,552 often, one of my members might offer to do a bit of a backdrop, so I'll 566 00:26:51,552 --> 00:26:53,142 get a professional photographer there. 567 00:26:53,362 --> 00:26:53,852 Nice. 568 00:26:53,857 --> 00:26:55,272 So we can get some member photos. 569 00:26:55,277 --> 00:26:58,512 And then it doubles as also a chance for me to get some promotional 570 00:26:58,512 --> 00:27:00,042 photos as well, which is great. 571 00:27:00,042 --> 00:27:00,102 Yeah. 572 00:27:00,522 --> 00:27:00,732 Cool. 573 00:27:00,737 --> 00:27:05,867 But the main, it, it is kept quite casual, um, because I do find, If I 574 00:27:05,867 --> 00:27:10,517 make it too formal and too structured, it's a lot of extra work of course. 575 00:27:10,517 --> 00:27:10,607 Yes. 576 00:27:10,607 --> 00:27:12,137 And then it's harder to organize. 577 00:27:12,497 --> 00:27:12,677 Yeah. 578 00:27:12,757 --> 00:27:15,877 And so I've kept them quite informal, so it's easy for people to come. 579 00:27:15,877 --> 00:27:15,967 Mm-hmm. 580 00:27:16,377 --> 00:27:19,717 I've also asked a few of my members in each state to be a member rep. 581 00:27:20,167 --> 00:27:23,922 So, we've had someone in Queensland, Melbourne, and Perth, for example, 582 00:27:23,922 --> 00:27:27,522 so that they coordinate the meetups and people feel like, okay, Tanya's 583 00:27:27,522 --> 00:27:29,562 not here, but we have someone local. 584 00:27:30,152 --> 00:27:33,992 And something new that I should mention as well that we've started is 585 00:27:34,342 --> 00:27:39,212 a WhatsApp group for so far, for just our Melbourne and our Perth members. 586 00:27:39,462 --> 00:27:42,797 I really need to start one for Sydney, but we have a lot more in Sydney, which 587 00:27:42,797 --> 00:27:44,327 is why I haven't started one in Sydney. 588 00:27:44,332 --> 00:27:44,507 Okay. 589 00:27:44,512 --> 00:27:48,587 But a WhatsApp group has been great for our members in in 590 00:27:48,592 --> 00:27:49,817 Melbourne and Perth particularly. 591 00:27:50,407 --> 00:27:54,337 To be able to easily connect with each other, ask for local help. 592 00:27:54,337 --> 00:27:56,857 So for example, Hey, does anyone, you know, I need this 593 00:27:56,857 --> 00:27:57,937 for an event this Saturday. 594 00:27:57,937 --> 00:27:59,017 Can anybody help? 595 00:27:59,497 --> 00:28:02,467 That has been a great addition to our membership as well. 596 00:28:02,727 --> 00:28:06,117 Using WhatsApp and, and creating those little local hubs as 597 00:28:06,122 --> 00:28:07,287 well for members to connect. 598 00:28:07,737 --> 00:28:12,100 Emily: Oh my gosh, Tanya, I just love, I love hearing all the ways that you 599 00:28:12,370 --> 00:28:16,950 have created value for your members and I guess we're probably similiar 600 00:28:16,950 --> 00:28:20,170 in the way that there's just so much that you can do with memberships and 601 00:28:20,170 --> 00:28:23,960 it's just looking at the community and how can we continue to give value to 602 00:28:23,960 --> 00:28:27,085 them and delight them and support them. 603 00:28:27,265 --> 00:28:28,465 Tanya: Yes, a hundred percent. 604 00:28:28,465 --> 00:28:32,370 And actually that, that reminds me of another evolving thing, which again comes 605 00:28:32,370 --> 00:28:35,880 down to, as you said, always thinking of new ways to serve your members. 606 00:28:35,930 --> 00:28:37,940 We have the kids party directory online. 607 00:28:38,270 --> 00:28:38,330 Yeah. 608 00:28:38,360 --> 00:28:42,120 But because my Instagram, you know, my Instagram page is 115,000 609 00:28:42,140 --> 00:28:46,655 followers, so that is a big base for my followers to come and find my members. 610 00:28:46,655 --> 00:28:51,515 So in the Instagram highlights, I have created my directory in there as well. 611 00:28:51,815 --> 00:28:56,915 So again, an easy way for people to find my members on Instagram highlights 612 00:28:56,915 --> 00:28:59,855 rather than having to go to the website because sometimes people are 613 00:28:59,855 --> 00:29:03,215 on Instagram, they wanna be able to find things on Instagram straight away. 614 00:29:03,805 --> 00:29:06,175 So, I hadn't seen that done. 615 00:29:06,385 --> 00:29:09,685 And so it's just trying to think outside the box sometimes. 616 00:29:09,875 --> 00:29:10,365 Yeah. 617 00:29:10,370 --> 00:29:12,385 And go, what can I do that no one else is doing? 618 00:29:12,415 --> 00:29:13,015 Mm-hmm. 619 00:29:13,255 --> 00:29:14,515 Um, and look, it might not work. 620 00:29:15,152 --> 00:29:16,182 Business is trial and error, right? 621 00:29:16,242 --> 00:29:16,542 Yeah, exactly. 622 00:29:16,547 --> 00:29:17,412 Everything's trial and error. 623 00:29:17,602 --> 00:29:19,992 It doesn't hurt, doesn't cost me anything extra to do. 624 00:29:19,992 --> 00:29:20,112 Yeah. 625 00:29:20,352 --> 00:29:22,212 Some Instagram highlights and you try it out. 626 00:29:22,702 --> 00:29:26,197 And again, just trying to find extra ways to yeah, add value. 627 00:29:26,527 --> 00:29:26,987 Emily: Mm. 628 00:29:26,987 --> 00:29:29,762 Thank you so much for being so generous and sharing all that you're 629 00:29:29,762 --> 00:29:30,962 up to and what you've created. 630 00:29:30,962 --> 00:29:31,652 It's really, really cool. 631 00:29:32,402 --> 00:29:33,062 Tanya: Oh, it's my pleasure. 632 00:29:33,152 --> 00:29:34,592 Emily: How are you marketing Tanya? 633 00:29:34,922 --> 00:29:38,012 How are you getting yourself out there attracting new members? 634 00:29:38,012 --> 00:29:38,852 What does that look like? 635 00:29:38,857 --> 00:29:39,722 What's working for you? 636 00:29:40,562 --> 00:29:44,522 Tanya: Yeah, look, I have to say that I think one of the biggest ways 637 00:29:44,527 --> 00:29:46,262 that I have been able to market. 638 00:29:46,707 --> 00:29:51,247 Has been through social media as well as keeping my own members 639 00:29:51,247 --> 00:29:54,637 happy so that it's almost that word of mouth in, in the industry. 640 00:29:55,147 --> 00:29:58,357 So I know people have come to me and said, so-and-so is one of your 641 00:29:58,357 --> 00:30:01,717 members, and they have told me about the photo shoots and the meetups. 642 00:30:01,717 --> 00:30:03,007 I really wanna be a part of it. 643 00:30:03,427 --> 00:30:03,547 Yeah. 644 00:30:03,577 --> 00:30:08,997 So that has been a big thing, definitely through the magazine and the social media. 645 00:30:09,492 --> 00:30:13,482 And when it comes to my member launches and attracting new members, 646 00:30:13,482 --> 00:30:15,282 so I tend to do two launches a year. 647 00:30:15,472 --> 00:30:15,962 Yeah. 648 00:30:15,967 --> 00:30:20,317 I do utilize the power of those DM conversations on Instagram. 649 00:30:20,407 --> 00:30:20,437 Mm. 650 00:30:20,917 --> 00:30:25,807 So I do go and have a look at who who's following me or who are some amazing 651 00:30:25,867 --> 00:30:29,497 vendors in the industry that I would love, that I feel would suit our community. 652 00:30:29,797 --> 00:30:29,977 Yeah. 653 00:30:29,977 --> 00:30:34,147 And I reach out to them and I introduce myself and just start a conversation 654 00:30:34,147 --> 00:30:38,107 with them and invite them to come and have a look at at the society. 655 00:30:38,107 --> 00:30:43,177 And so I think, having that confidence is so important to not feel too scared to 656 00:30:43,177 --> 00:30:45,277 introduce yourself or to invite people. 657 00:30:45,277 --> 00:30:46,897 You know, there is a lot of rejection there. 658 00:30:46,902 --> 00:30:48,457 I've definitely had a lot of rejection. 659 00:30:48,887 --> 00:30:52,357 But then a lot of people who've said yes or let me go check it out because, 660 00:30:52,357 --> 00:30:56,137 there are a lot of people sometimes following who still dunno what, what I do. 661 00:30:56,317 --> 00:30:56,947 Emily: This is the thing. 662 00:30:56,947 --> 00:30:57,247 Hey. 663 00:30:57,247 --> 00:30:59,627 And you can never assume, you can never yeah. 664 00:30:59,627 --> 00:31:02,147 Make the assumption that people know what you have to sell. 665 00:31:02,357 --> 00:31:03,257 Tanya: Exactly. 666 00:31:03,262 --> 00:31:06,087 So, they'll, I'll still have people DM me and say, how can 667 00:31:06,087 --> 00:31:07,437 I be featured on your page? 668 00:31:07,467 --> 00:31:08,097 Or, yeah. 669 00:31:08,307 --> 00:31:10,297 You know, they're following, but they think that maybe I'm in 670 00:31:10,297 --> 00:31:12,347 events stylist or I offer cakes. 671 00:31:12,347 --> 00:31:12,407 Yeah. 672 00:31:12,767 --> 00:31:16,157 So again, it's trying to always educate people who are following 673 00:31:16,157 --> 00:31:17,627 you about what, what you offer. 674 00:31:17,837 --> 00:31:21,797 But having those DM conversations, keeping my current customers happy. 675 00:31:21,797 --> 00:31:23,507 So that word of mouths there. 676 00:31:23,537 --> 00:31:23,657 Yes. 677 00:31:24,077 --> 00:31:27,817 And then again, that professional imagery, that's something I started 678 00:31:27,847 --> 00:31:30,367 even way back when it was very small. 679 00:31:30,787 --> 00:31:33,967 I always saw the value in trying to have professional images, 680 00:31:33,967 --> 00:31:37,607 professional branding, even if it was very simple in the early days. 681 00:31:38,137 --> 00:31:41,447 I just wanted that professional look cuz I feel that people judge you on 682 00:31:41,447 --> 00:31:43,907 that regarding, you know, whether they wanna come and work with you 683 00:31:44,507 --> 00:31:48,587 Emily: And it's your brand aesthetic and it's being able to showcase and probably 684 00:31:48,834 --> 00:31:50,904 again, we are both creative people. 685 00:31:50,904 --> 00:31:52,884 And are you a visual person? 686 00:31:52,889 --> 00:31:54,444 I'm, I'm assuming that you are. 687 00:31:54,474 --> 00:31:55,254 I know I am. 688 00:31:55,494 --> 00:31:57,664 I love aesthetic and visuals. 689 00:31:58,174 --> 00:31:58,594 Tanya: Yeah. 690 00:31:58,684 --> 00:31:59,554 Yes, definitely. 691 00:31:59,554 --> 00:32:03,804 Emily: So having that photography allows us to show what we're all about and show 692 00:32:03,804 --> 00:32:07,164 what our brand is about and bring it to life and, and get it in front of people. 693 00:32:07,164 --> 00:32:09,534 So yeah, photography is really, really super important. 694 00:32:09,874 --> 00:32:10,384 Tanya: A hundred percent. 695 00:32:10,384 --> 00:32:11,734 And it's worth the investment. 696 00:32:11,739 --> 00:32:13,804 I know when you're new in business, you know, you have 697 00:32:13,804 --> 00:32:15,094 to be careful what you spend. 698 00:32:15,094 --> 00:32:17,764 But I always feel that professional photography, yes, you can use 699 00:32:17,769 --> 00:32:19,484 that for many years to come. 700 00:32:19,484 --> 00:32:19,844 Yeah. 701 00:32:19,934 --> 00:32:21,944 And it really makes a big difference. 702 00:32:22,254 --> 00:32:22,884 Emily: Hmm. 703 00:32:23,474 --> 00:32:25,244 Talk to us about your launches, Tanya. 704 00:32:25,244 --> 00:32:29,984 How, how complicated or uncomplicated they are, what you've found 705 00:32:29,984 --> 00:32:32,054 works, what maybe hasn't worked? 706 00:32:32,054 --> 00:32:34,764 What would you share to about your launches and go? 707 00:32:34,974 --> 00:32:39,259 Tanya: Look, I would say my launches are pretty uncomplicated, so, I haven't 708 00:32:39,259 --> 00:32:42,949 gone down the big track of webinars and funnels and things like that. 709 00:32:42,949 --> 00:32:43,009 Yeah. 710 00:32:43,369 --> 00:32:47,864 My launches are mainly based around, again, developing a wait list. 711 00:32:47,924 --> 00:32:50,474 So, you know, they talk about having that launch runway. 712 00:32:50,804 --> 00:32:50,894 Yes. 713 00:32:50,894 --> 00:32:54,344 So starting to talk about the society and gather people on the wait list. 714 00:32:54,344 --> 00:32:57,404 And again, even inviting people to join the wait list. 715 00:32:57,404 --> 00:33:01,064 So similar to the dms I send during a launch, there might be people who I know 716 00:33:01,069 --> 00:33:04,064 are following me or who I love and I'm, you know, I love following them and I 717 00:33:04,064 --> 00:33:05,564 might invite them to join the wait list. 718 00:33:05,934 --> 00:33:10,947 And then I often use my conferences to develop a pro a promotional video. 719 00:33:10,947 --> 00:33:15,197 So I'll have a, you know, videographer on the day I'll use them to put 720 00:33:15,202 --> 00:33:16,907 together an amazing promotional video. 721 00:33:16,912 --> 00:33:18,677 I'll get member testimonials as well. 722 00:33:19,027 --> 00:33:19,637 Mm-hmm. 723 00:33:19,717 --> 00:33:22,127 So that when I launch I will have that, you know, new 724 00:33:22,127 --> 00:33:23,717 promotional video that I use. 725 00:33:23,817 --> 00:33:27,072 And again, So something else I've been trying out was doing some 726 00:33:27,072 --> 00:33:30,552 lives with some of my members as well during the launch period. 727 00:33:31,102 --> 00:33:34,072 And I also do quite a long open door period. 728 00:33:34,072 --> 00:33:36,592 I open my doors for three weeks now. 729 00:33:36,592 --> 00:33:41,322 I know that standard membership openings are normally just a week. 730 00:33:41,322 --> 00:33:42,102 A few days. 731 00:33:42,102 --> 00:33:44,022 I've heard people tell me, Tanya, that's too long. 732 00:33:44,022 --> 00:33:44,772 What are you doing? 733 00:33:44,777 --> 00:33:45,492 Yeah, yeah. 734 00:33:45,542 --> 00:33:50,672 And look, I do get tired by the third week and I often can't wait to close the doors. 735 00:33:51,062 --> 00:33:53,942 But the reason I do the three weeks, I guess Yeah. 736 00:33:53,942 --> 00:33:59,532 Is because I do use those DM conversations and I have found that because people 737 00:33:59,532 --> 00:34:04,487 are so busy, they do need time and often I'll get follow up and they'll 738 00:34:04,487 --> 00:34:05,837 say, look, I just haven't had a chance. 739 00:34:05,837 --> 00:34:07,367 I want to check out your membership. 740 00:34:07,667 --> 00:34:09,137 I just need a few more days. 741 00:34:09,527 --> 00:34:11,947 And I feel giving, giving them that three weeks. 742 00:34:12,007 --> 00:34:13,507 It gives me the chance, talk to them. 743 00:34:13,537 --> 00:34:16,267 They have time to look, they have time to answer questions. 744 00:34:16,597 --> 00:34:18,747 I do add in incentives. 745 00:34:18,747 --> 00:34:21,807 So you know, if you join in the first week, you'll receive this. 746 00:34:21,807 --> 00:34:23,697 If you join in the second week, you'll receive this. 747 00:34:23,967 --> 00:34:27,347 So adding those incentives to help people come in earlier. 748 00:34:27,837 --> 00:34:31,287 But I definitely find that sometimes people just need that extra 749 00:34:31,287 --> 00:34:33,057 time to actually look through. 750 00:34:33,057 --> 00:34:36,087 And I know myself, even when I'm looking at programs to join, 751 00:34:36,087 --> 00:34:38,277 suddenly the doors are closed and I'm like, oh no, I missed it. 752 00:34:38,282 --> 00:34:38,397 Yes. 753 00:34:38,727 --> 00:34:38,787 Yeah. 754 00:34:38,877 --> 00:34:40,807 Because when you're a mum things happen. 755 00:34:40,807 --> 00:34:42,907 You're not always able to have that time. 756 00:34:42,907 --> 00:34:43,447 So, um, 757 00:34:43,447 --> 00:34:44,587 Emily: I'm learning this Tanya. 758 00:34:45,162 --> 00:34:46,057 Tanya: Yes, I know. 759 00:34:46,057 --> 00:34:47,047 So I just, oh, yeah. 760 00:34:47,047 --> 00:34:47,567 Life's changed. 761 00:34:48,097 --> 00:34:48,607 Oh yeah. 762 00:34:48,737 --> 00:34:52,207 So look, I find for me, if I had to do a launch in five days, 763 00:34:52,937 --> 00:34:55,847 That would be very stressful and I'd rather just spread it out. 764 00:34:56,327 --> 00:34:56,537 Yeah. 765 00:34:56,537 --> 00:34:59,807 And give myself that time and that's what I found has worked for me. 766 00:34:59,827 --> 00:35:00,477 Emily: I like that. 767 00:35:00,487 --> 00:35:02,744 Tanya: Um, I don't, um, yeah. 768 00:35:02,744 --> 00:35:07,414 And I don't think the the more intense daily event type launching 769 00:35:07,414 --> 00:35:12,754 perhaps is doable sometimes when you are, when you do have a few 770 00:35:12,759 --> 00:35:14,014 hours that you're working per day? 771 00:35:14,014 --> 00:35:16,424 I don't know what, um, exactly, exactly. 772 00:35:16,424 --> 00:35:16,624 Yeah. 773 00:35:16,624 --> 00:35:19,699 Like I think as mums, it's different if you are, you're not a mom and 774 00:35:19,699 --> 00:35:22,069 you have some big team behind you who's organizing all your 775 00:35:22,069 --> 00:35:23,479 webinars and everything like that. 776 00:35:23,484 --> 00:35:23,599 Mm-hmm. 777 00:35:24,289 --> 00:35:28,019 But I think when you're a mum things do come up and it can be very stressful 778 00:35:28,019 --> 00:35:30,359 during a launch to yes have to show. 779 00:35:30,389 --> 00:35:33,239 I mean, I'm still showing up every day just on Instagram stories. 780 00:35:33,479 --> 00:35:33,719 Yeah. 781 00:35:33,719 --> 00:35:37,949 But doing these big webinars every day and the pressure that you feel about, 782 00:35:37,949 --> 00:35:40,649 I wanna reach my target by this week. 783 00:35:40,739 --> 00:35:40,799 Yeah. 784 00:35:41,169 --> 00:35:43,599 And plus you're often marketing to other mums in business. 785 00:35:43,599 --> 00:35:43,689 Yes. 786 00:35:43,939 --> 00:35:46,689 And they are not just sitting there on Instagram waiting for your webinar. 787 00:35:46,689 --> 00:35:46,779 Yes. 788 00:35:46,979 --> 00:35:48,069 They're doing a million things. 789 00:35:48,074 --> 00:35:48,259 Yes. 790 00:35:48,369 --> 00:35:48,729 Yes. 791 00:35:48,729 --> 00:35:52,624 So you really wanna give them the to check out what you're doing and to have those 792 00:35:52,624 --> 00:35:55,504 conversations in the dms to follow up pip. 793 00:35:55,504 --> 00:35:56,854 So I'll go through my wait list. 794 00:35:56,854 --> 00:35:58,684 I'll contact everyone on my wait list. 795 00:35:59,044 --> 00:36:01,324 You know, all those little, little things take time. 796 00:36:01,684 --> 00:36:01,774 Yes. 797 00:36:01,804 --> 00:36:04,979 And I do find, look, maybe a two week period would be good. 798 00:36:04,979 --> 00:36:08,249 I personally do do the three weeks, but I do feel that stress 799 00:36:08,254 --> 00:36:09,689 of just five days, it's too much. 800 00:36:10,104 --> 00:36:11,279 Emily: Yes, I get that. 801 00:36:11,279 --> 00:36:11,969 I get that. 802 00:36:12,419 --> 00:36:17,842 And um, could you do any Evergreen sales or in between the launches or just those 803 00:36:17,842 --> 00:36:19,432 two launches per year, Tanya, in terms of- 804 00:36:19,432 --> 00:36:22,522 Tanya: Well, this is something I have to do better, so I would love 805 00:36:22,522 --> 00:36:25,522 to set up something where, and I know you, I think you do this, Emily, 806 00:36:25,522 --> 00:36:28,522 where you know there is a webinar or something running in the background 807 00:36:28,537 --> 00:36:30,202 and you're directing people to join. 808 00:36:30,502 --> 00:36:32,842 So I don't have anything like that running at the moment. 809 00:36:33,212 --> 00:36:36,692 However, I do have people sometimes contact me in between 810 00:36:36,692 --> 00:36:37,982 launches wanting to join. 811 00:36:38,442 --> 00:36:41,382 And then often I will engage 'em in conversation and bring them in. 812 00:36:41,387 --> 00:36:41,442 Yeah. 813 00:36:41,612 --> 00:36:41,867 Yeah. 814 00:36:41,877 --> 00:36:44,367 I'm not one of those very strict. 815 00:36:44,427 --> 00:36:44,727 No. 816 00:36:44,727 --> 00:36:46,257 You have to wait to the doors open. 817 00:36:46,257 --> 00:36:49,017 And I know again, that goes against some membership rules. 818 00:36:49,497 --> 00:36:52,607 But at the same time, you do as a business owner, you do have people 819 00:36:52,607 --> 00:36:54,287 leave the membership during the year. 820 00:36:54,287 --> 00:36:54,497 Yeah. 821 00:36:54,857 --> 00:36:56,687 And so you are losing that income. 822 00:36:56,927 --> 00:36:59,837 So when you're bringing in new members in between, it helps you 823 00:36:59,837 --> 00:37:01,577 to replenish that income as well. 824 00:37:01,784 --> 00:37:04,334 There is still often the incentive for people to join during the 825 00:37:04,334 --> 00:37:05,924 launch because there are bonuses. 826 00:37:05,924 --> 00:37:09,164 Sometimes the price is like going to go up the next round. 827 00:37:09,614 --> 00:37:12,674 And so the people who are joining in between are missing out. 828 00:37:12,884 --> 00:37:13,184 Yeah. 829 00:37:13,302 --> 00:37:16,632 But yeah, I do find that letting people join in between there is a 830 00:37:16,632 --> 00:37:18,372 benefit to that as a business owner. 831 00:37:18,642 --> 00:37:19,092 Emily: Yeah, for sure. 832 00:37:19,097 --> 00:37:21,672 And you can explore around that too and look at some different ways 833 00:37:21,677 --> 00:37:23,412 to make that, to make that work. 834 00:37:23,412 --> 00:37:27,582 And, um, we can chat a little bit more maybe about evergreen funnels perhaps. 835 00:37:27,587 --> 00:37:28,872 Tanya: Yes, that would be great. 836 00:37:29,262 --> 00:37:30,342 That would be great. 837 00:37:30,347 --> 00:37:30,882 Emily: Yes. 838 00:37:31,179 --> 00:37:34,919 So tanya, talk to us about some of the challenges that you've had so far, or 839 00:37:34,919 --> 00:37:36,685 big learnings that you'd like to share. 840 00:37:37,011 --> 00:37:37,451 Tanya: Yes. 841 00:37:37,451 --> 00:37:40,025 Well, covid, we cannot forget about Covid. 842 00:37:40,235 --> 00:37:43,595 The lockdowns were a huge had a huge impact on the event industry. 843 00:37:43,625 --> 00:37:43,805 Yeah. 844 00:37:44,105 --> 00:37:48,065 So I had a lot of my members were hardly earning anything during that time. 845 00:37:48,065 --> 00:37:51,395 And then I had all my members in Melbourne who were particularly affected. 846 00:37:51,455 --> 00:37:51,695 Yeah. 847 00:37:52,065 --> 00:37:56,955 So that was a huge challenge because I couldn't do a lot of member meetups in 848 00:37:56,955 --> 00:38:01,935 person and even our magazine photo shoots, I was worried about how we would do that. 849 00:38:02,295 --> 00:38:05,085 So it was about trying to work out how I could bring value to 850 00:38:05,085 --> 00:38:06,195 my members during that time. 851 00:38:06,195 --> 00:38:06,285 Yes. 852 00:38:06,285 --> 00:38:09,825 Because I did have members having to cancel because of financial reasons. 853 00:38:10,005 --> 00:38:10,125 Yeah. 854 00:38:10,185 --> 00:38:13,695 And thankfully some of them rejoined once everything was over. 855 00:38:14,235 --> 00:38:15,975 But during that time it was about innovating. 856 00:38:15,975 --> 00:38:21,225 So looking at, we had ma master classes with guests specifically helping our 857 00:38:21,225 --> 00:38:25,885 members about how to pivot, how to think of new ideas to bring in new income. 858 00:38:26,245 --> 00:38:29,993 It was again, starting more online member meetups, which we hadn't done 859 00:38:29,993 --> 00:38:32,093 before so that people could connect. 860 00:38:32,220 --> 00:38:36,860 And then whenever the lockdowns were, you know, stopped, which again in 861 00:38:36,865 --> 00:38:38,610 Melbourne wasn't so much the case. 862 00:38:38,610 --> 00:38:41,040 But in Sydney we had periods where, you know, we were able 863 00:38:41,040 --> 00:38:42,600 to do things, do photo shoots. 864 00:38:43,015 --> 00:38:44,545 Perth was opened a lot. 865 00:38:44,545 --> 00:38:47,455 So again, I utilized the Perth members, got them to do more 866 00:38:47,455 --> 00:38:48,925 of the magazine photo shoots. 867 00:38:49,016 --> 00:38:53,861 And then I even did a special magazine for all my members to be a part of, 868 00:38:53,891 --> 00:38:55,721 which was purely a promotional magazine. 869 00:38:55,721 --> 00:39:00,221 And we put all our members in there and promoted them as just another way that 870 00:39:00,221 --> 00:39:01,661 they could get their business out there. 871 00:39:01,661 --> 00:39:03,731 So again, offering that extra support. 872 00:39:03,781 --> 00:39:04,261 Yeah. 873 00:39:04,297 --> 00:39:05,677 It was a really challenging time. 874 00:39:05,947 --> 00:39:08,737 So grateful to the members who stuck with us through that. 875 00:39:09,217 --> 00:39:11,947 But again, it's just, and I, and I think it relates to the 876 00:39:11,947 --> 00:39:13,357 situation we're having now. 877 00:39:13,357 --> 00:39:16,410 I know, you know, people are feeling, people spending less? 878 00:39:16,440 --> 00:39:16,680 Yes. 879 00:39:16,770 --> 00:39:18,540 And they're worried about their businesses. 880 00:39:18,545 --> 00:39:19,010 Mm-hmm. 881 00:39:19,095 --> 00:39:23,400 So, again, looking at how we can support our clients and give them value 882 00:39:23,880 --> 00:39:27,120 so they, they can see the benefit, how, I guess, you know, what we're 883 00:39:27,120 --> 00:39:30,660 offering will help them during these tough times that they might be facing. 884 00:39:31,170 --> 00:39:31,650 Emily: Mm. 885 00:39:31,970 --> 00:39:32,840 Always so good. 886 00:39:32,840 --> 00:39:33,226 Tanya. 887 00:39:33,226 --> 00:39:34,726 What does your team look like now? 888 00:39:34,726 --> 00:39:38,016 I know that we said you started the first help you got in the 889 00:39:38,016 --> 00:39:39,486 business with virtual assistant. 890 00:39:39,486 --> 00:39:40,866 Is that everything you have now? 891 00:39:40,866 --> 00:39:43,016 Do you have any, any other support with the business? 892 00:39:44,086 --> 00:39:44,296 Tanya: Okay. 893 00:39:44,301 --> 00:39:44,476 Emily. 894 00:39:44,476 --> 00:39:48,506 I'd have to say I'm still with my virtual assistant that I haven't, 895 00:39:48,506 --> 00:39:50,156 I haven't employed any extra staff. 896 00:39:50,156 --> 00:39:54,596 I think COVID definitely put a dent in the business growth as far as I 897 00:39:54,596 --> 00:39:57,416 felt like I was on a bit, you know, like a, a good path at the moment. 898 00:39:57,416 --> 00:39:58,796 And that did slow it down. 899 00:39:58,801 --> 00:40:00,086 Definitely, definitely. 900 00:40:00,104 --> 00:40:04,119 But look, I'm at the moment I actually love using virtual assistant. 901 00:40:04,149 --> 00:40:05,349 Emily: Oh yeah, absolutely. 902 00:40:05,349 --> 00:40:08,054 Tanya: Cause I feel like that flexibility is there. 903 00:40:08,294 --> 00:40:08,414 Yeah. 904 00:40:08,414 --> 00:40:10,634 It's something that I have been exploring, so it's definitely one 905 00:40:10,639 --> 00:40:15,734 of my next steps I want to do in my business is to be able to outsource 906 00:40:15,739 --> 00:40:20,354 more, because I'm definitely feeling the pinch of, you know, expanding more and, 907 00:40:20,414 --> 00:40:22,004 and needing, you know, more support. 908 00:40:22,004 --> 00:40:25,357 I definitely have people like a bookkeeper, accountant, web 909 00:40:25,357 --> 00:40:27,167 developer, graphic designer. 910 00:40:27,197 --> 00:40:31,127 So there's definitely people, experts I call on for all those types of things. 911 00:40:31,572 --> 00:40:35,027 But I definitely need someone more regular to, uh, to help. 912 00:40:35,027 --> 00:40:37,997 But I have found it challenging to find the right people. 913 00:40:37,997 --> 00:40:38,447 I don't know. 914 00:40:38,447 --> 00:40:41,897 I mean, you have the wonderful cat who works with you, amazing, 915 00:40:41,902 --> 00:40:43,297 like, I think the jackpot. 916 00:40:44,357 --> 00:40:46,817 But I've definitely, I've definitely gone through a few VAs. 917 00:40:46,967 --> 00:40:50,027 So it's definitely a challenging area, not just finding the right person. 918 00:40:50,597 --> 00:40:52,367 But then onboarding them Well, yeah. 919 00:40:52,393 --> 00:40:54,673 So definitely I feel when I look back, I, okay I could have 920 00:40:55,033 --> 00:40:55,603 probably trained them better. 921 00:40:55,603 --> 00:40:58,243 I could have given the time better to support them. 922 00:40:58,343 --> 00:40:58,697 Emily: Mm-hmm. 923 00:40:58,737 --> 00:41:02,891 Did you attend the, I'm trying to remember the replay of our All Stars Day. 924 00:41:03,101 --> 00:41:03,711 Anyway 925 00:41:04,101 --> 00:41:04,881 Tanya: I don't think I have yet. 926 00:41:04,881 --> 00:41:05,271 No. 927 00:41:05,331 --> 00:41:05,901 Emily: Yeah, yeah. 928 00:41:06,381 --> 00:41:08,481 But I'm thinking that would be a really good master class in the 929 00:41:08,481 --> 00:41:12,269 collective around, Hiring a VA and what to look for in the onboarding 930 00:41:12,269 --> 00:41:13,229 and all that type of thing. 931 00:41:13,229 --> 00:41:17,279 Because I know that a lot members are, some are, some already have VAs and 932 00:41:17,279 --> 00:41:18,299 team members of that type of thing. 933 00:41:18,299 --> 00:41:21,509 But, I, I do hear that a lot, that people might have someone and that 934 00:41:21,509 --> 00:41:23,879 it, it's not really working out or they're like, how can I do this better? 935 00:41:23,879 --> 00:41:25,389 So I think that would be a good masterclass. 936 00:41:25,409 --> 00:41:27,499 Tanya: A hundred percent because I think what holds. 937 00:41:27,524 --> 00:41:31,094 What holds us back, and it's definitely holded held me back is the time 938 00:41:31,094 --> 00:41:34,064 in training and you almost think, oh look, I'll just do it myself. 939 00:41:34,094 --> 00:41:35,114 Emily: I know, right? 940 00:41:35,534 --> 00:41:38,384 Tanya: And then a few months later you're like, why am I doing this myself? 941 00:41:38,693 --> 00:41:41,633 So I have a great VA at the moment who's doing a lot of social media 942 00:41:41,638 --> 00:41:43,553 for me, but I definitely feel like. 943 00:41:43,748 --> 00:41:47,468 If I could outsource other aspects, yeah, that would be amazing. 944 00:41:47,738 --> 00:41:48,158 Emily: So good. 945 00:41:48,488 --> 00:41:50,588 And that might be the next thing that you're working on, which is really cool. 946 00:41:50,828 --> 00:41:51,638 Yes, definitely. 947 00:41:51,643 --> 00:41:53,468 So last couple of questions, Tanya. 948 00:41:53,688 --> 00:41:56,808 What has, what have you got out of being a member in the collective 949 00:41:56,813 --> 00:41:58,848 for yourself or your business? 950 00:41:58,982 --> 00:42:02,227 Tanya: Yeah, well, Emily, I've loved your work for years and so 951 00:42:02,244 --> 00:42:04,834 you know, when I had the chance to join the Modern Marketing Collective, 952 00:42:04,834 --> 00:42:06,244 I was so excited because I feel. 953 00:42:07,004 --> 00:42:09,854 Being able to access your wealth of knowledge. 954 00:42:09,924 --> 00:42:13,134 I know I've jumped on a few of your live coaching calls and being able to ask 955 00:42:13,134 --> 00:42:15,009 you directly what I've been stuck about. 956 00:42:15,439 --> 00:42:18,284 I know I spoke to you about adding another member level and whether 957 00:42:18,284 --> 00:42:22,344 I should do that, and different, different , decisions I've had to make. 958 00:42:22,374 --> 00:42:26,994 And being able to have your direct answer has been amazing because 959 00:42:26,994 --> 00:42:28,494 again, that, that direct knowledge. 960 00:42:28,494 --> 00:42:32,344 And then when it comes to the actual content, So the modules that I've 961 00:42:32,344 --> 00:42:36,534 particularly gained a lot from firstly your initial modules in the Modern 962 00:42:36,534 --> 00:42:40,464 Marketing collective to really help me set that purpose and then intention. 963 00:42:40,464 --> 00:42:40,704 Yes. 964 00:42:40,734 --> 00:42:44,039 Intentionality, which is something that I really needed. 965 00:42:44,349 --> 00:42:47,529 And definitely the sales psychology area, which I've revisited a few 966 00:42:47,529 --> 00:42:50,139 times, so sometimes it's during a launch and it might not be going 967 00:42:50,139 --> 00:42:51,399 how I've wanted, and I popped in. 968 00:42:52,214 --> 00:42:54,884 Really listening going, okay, what tips can I learn from the 969 00:42:54,884 --> 00:42:56,714 different masterclass as well. 970 00:42:56,744 --> 00:42:57,213 Yeah, yeah. 971 00:42:57,213 --> 00:43:00,063 And then even the community, I know I've jumped into the Facebook group 972 00:43:00,063 --> 00:43:03,873 and asked questions, recommendations from people about who their views 973 00:43:03,878 --> 00:43:06,698 or what what I should do about an event or something like that. 974 00:43:06,728 --> 00:43:06,938 Yes. 975 00:43:07,298 --> 00:43:10,208 And I found people quite helpful in the community as well. 976 00:43:10,268 --> 00:43:10,358 Mm-hmm. 977 00:43:10,688 --> 00:43:14,318 So I think it is about, again, getting to access you. 978 00:43:15,298 --> 00:43:19,358 But also having that the masterclass is there that I could draw on any time. 979 00:43:19,358 --> 00:43:21,518 And then the community, it's like all three. 980 00:43:22,030 --> 00:43:22,660 Yes. 981 00:43:22,900 --> 00:43:25,240 Emily: Which is what you are to your members hey too. 982 00:43:25,410 --> 00:43:25,900 Yeah. 983 00:43:25,900 --> 00:43:26,260 Tanya: Yeah. 984 00:43:26,265 --> 00:43:26,740 That's right. 985 00:43:26,740 --> 00:43:27,220 Exactly. 986 00:43:27,225 --> 00:43:31,240 Like I'm, I, you know, I'm not someone who can jump on every single coaching call. 987 00:43:31,270 --> 00:43:31,600 Yeah. 988 00:43:31,660 --> 00:43:36,400 But I still love that when I can or when I need something, I can jump in and, 989 00:43:36,400 --> 00:43:39,640 you know, access all the information or access you in the Facebook group. 990 00:43:39,693 --> 00:43:40,293 Emily: Mm. 991 00:43:40,353 --> 00:43:41,253 So good, Tanya. 992 00:43:41,583 --> 00:43:43,353 And lastly, is there anything that I haven't asked you 993 00:43:43,353 --> 00:43:44,433 that you'd like to share? 994 00:43:44,493 --> 00:43:47,193 Anything that I really, really wanted to talk about this. 995 00:43:47,690 --> 00:43:48,200 Tanya: Let me think. 996 00:43:48,200 --> 00:43:51,470 Look, I, I'd love to touch just briefly on a little bit more 997 00:43:51,470 --> 00:43:52,820 about motherhood and business. 998 00:43:52,850 --> 00:43:52,910 Yeah. 999 00:43:52,970 --> 00:43:57,080 Because I feel like, I guess being a, a mum of four and growing this business 1000 00:43:57,085 --> 00:43:59,990 over the years, I guess I just wanna encourage any mums who might be in a 1001 00:43:59,995 --> 00:44:02,900 similar situation, I guess, to know that. 1002 00:44:03,215 --> 00:44:06,785 You know, in those early years when your kids are small and you can feel 1003 00:44:06,785 --> 00:44:09,935 very stretched, but to know that the time will come where you will 1004 00:44:09,935 --> 00:44:12,965 be able to do more in your business, and it's okay to pace yourself. 1005 00:44:13,445 --> 00:44:15,905 I can look back at my business and go, oh my gosh, I've been doing 1006 00:44:15,905 --> 00:44:19,625 this for 12 years, and I could say, gosh, I could have achieved this. 1007 00:44:19,650 --> 00:44:21,030 So much in 12 years. 1008 00:44:21,180 --> 00:44:21,360 Mm-hmm. 1009 00:44:21,570 --> 00:44:24,990 But I know that I did take it slow and I paced myself so that 1010 00:44:24,990 --> 00:44:26,310 I could be there for my kids. 1011 00:44:26,370 --> 00:44:29,250 And now I feel like, you know, that time has gone so quick. 1012 00:44:29,700 --> 00:44:32,280 So I think it's about realizing that yes, it's hard. 1013 00:44:32,280 --> 00:44:35,250 Yes, you might have to work in chunks, you might have to work at night, you might 1014 00:44:35,255 --> 00:44:38,730 have to outsource small, you can't do things as fast as you, as you would like. 1015 00:44:39,455 --> 00:44:43,205 But don't compare yourself to people perhaps who are zooming ahead, 1016 00:44:43,205 --> 00:44:45,845 but they don't have kids or they have a lot more support than you. 1017 00:44:45,845 --> 00:44:45,905 Yeah. 1018 00:44:46,365 --> 00:44:50,985 And realize that, you know, it is such a gift to be a mum and what you are offering 1019 00:44:50,985 --> 00:44:53,325 those children is something so valuable. 1020 00:44:53,612 --> 00:44:58,698 But also don't feel the mum guilt as well because I see this business has 1021 00:44:58,698 --> 00:45:03,468 been such a blessing to my kids because I'm able to pick them up, drop them. 1022 00:45:03,468 --> 00:45:08,208 I go to, you know, any assemblies, Easter hat parade, anything at school, I'm there. 1023 00:45:08,478 --> 00:45:10,098 If they're sick, I'm there. 1024 00:45:10,410 --> 00:45:13,050 And so any times when they used to say, mum, why are you working? 1025 00:45:13,050 --> 00:45:14,160 Can you come and do this with us? 1026 00:45:14,160 --> 00:45:14,860 I'd be saying, you know what? 1027 00:45:15,485 --> 00:45:18,125 It's because of this business that, you know, you can have your ballet 1028 00:45:18,125 --> 00:45:19,895 lessons, we can go on that holiday. 1029 00:45:20,175 --> 00:45:22,395 And mum can be there for you after school. 1030 00:45:22,725 --> 00:45:27,770 So explaining to to kids how your business is helping them and 1031 00:45:27,775 --> 00:45:29,030 what it's providing for them. 1032 00:45:29,466 --> 00:45:32,161 And I love when my kids say, mum, who's who's your boss? 1033 00:45:32,161 --> 00:45:33,871 And I say, I'm the boss actually. 1034 00:45:34,471 --> 00:45:35,951 And they're like, mummy, like you're looking at her. 1035 00:45:36,221 --> 00:45:36,711 I know. 1036 00:45:36,841 --> 00:45:39,001 And they're like, mum, who started Life's Little celebrations. 1037 00:45:39,001 --> 00:45:40,981 I'm like, I started LIfe's Little Celebrations. 1038 00:45:41,031 --> 00:45:41,451 Wow. 1039 00:45:41,456 --> 00:45:45,001 And to give them that possibility that, you know, one day they can start their 1040 00:45:45,006 --> 00:45:48,421 own business as well, and they can be the boss if they want to, you know, 1041 00:45:48,421 --> 00:45:51,361 and I think there's so much positive messages we give our kids through 1042 00:45:51,361 --> 00:45:55,141 running our own business, and we don't have to feel guilty about juggling at 1043 00:45:55,141 --> 00:45:57,541 all because it's such a gift to them. 1044 00:45:57,858 --> 00:46:00,378 Emily: Thank you so much for leaving that message. 1045 00:46:00,378 --> 00:46:02,508 It's like almost like that was just for me too. 1046 00:46:02,888 --> 00:46:03,768 Oh, yes. 1047 00:46:03,768 --> 00:46:07,188 At the minute, like, how are we, how is everyone doing this? 1048 00:46:07,188 --> 00:46:08,118 And um, exactly. 1049 00:46:08,298 --> 00:46:13,008 Yeah, and I think I'm finding that just the change of pace and just, and just like 1050 00:46:13,013 --> 00:46:17,198 figuring out how to be a mum, how to have the business, how do I want that to look? 1051 00:46:17,378 --> 00:46:21,788 And this has been such a great conversation for me personally, to hear 1052 00:46:21,788 --> 00:46:26,378 how you've done that and that you've, I hope, and it sounds like it being 1053 00:46:26,678 --> 00:46:28,563 like really nice and kind to yourself. 1054 00:46:28,613 --> 00:46:32,273 And maybe there's been moments when you did look around and think, oh, I wish 1055 00:46:32,273 --> 00:46:37,883 I could be doing more, or comparing to others, but that you stuck true 1056 00:46:37,888 --> 00:46:39,893 to what was most important to you. 1057 00:46:39,923 --> 00:46:45,693 And that's really to be celebrated Tanya and to be really proud of yourself for. 1058 00:46:46,113 --> 00:46:47,253 Tanya: Oh, thank you, Emily. 1059 00:46:47,253 --> 00:46:50,613 Look, I'm definitely have had lots of times as you said, that you 1060 00:46:51,033 --> 00:46:53,463 question yourself and you think, oh, am I being, you know, I could be a 1061 00:46:53,463 --> 00:46:56,493 better business owner, I could be a better mother, all these things. 1062 00:46:56,498 --> 00:47:01,813 But I think it's just so important to, uh, as you said, keep your priorities straight 1063 00:47:01,943 --> 00:47:05,933 and to not compare yourself with others and to come up, you know, carve your own 1064 00:47:05,933 --> 00:47:09,773 journey with your family and a business that works with you know, your own family. 1065 00:47:10,291 --> 00:47:12,641 Emily: Ah, well thank you so much for your time, Tanya. 1066 00:47:13,071 --> 00:47:17,241 Love you having you, and I appreciate you're so, so generous 1067 00:47:17,241 --> 00:47:18,141 with everything that you shared. 1068 00:47:18,146 --> 00:47:20,571 I'm sure people will have, like I do, I'm like writing down. 1069 00:47:20,601 --> 00:47:21,291 Oh, yes, yes. 1070 00:47:21,561 --> 00:47:24,531 Writing down a page of notes of ideas and inspiration. 1071 00:47:24,531 --> 00:47:26,241 So thank you so much for being here. 1072 00:47:26,241 --> 00:47:29,671 Where can everyone go to connect with you and follow you? 1073 00:47:30,201 --> 00:47:31,586 Tanya: Thank you so much, Emily. 1074 00:47:31,586 --> 00:47:33,206 It has been such a pleasure to be here. 1075 00:47:33,266 --> 00:47:34,826 One of my favorite podcasts. 1076 00:47:34,826 --> 00:47:34,886 Yeah. 1077 00:47:35,226 --> 00:47:38,886 So everyone can find me at Life's Little Celebrations, so 1078 00:47:38,886 --> 00:47:40,056 you can find me on Instagram. 1079 00:47:40,056 --> 00:47:41,556 That will probably be the easiest way. 1080 00:47:41,556 --> 00:47:45,006 So you can find my magazine, look at all our wonderful members. 1081 00:47:45,276 --> 00:47:49,386 So Life's Little Celebrations on Instagram and I would love to connect 1082 00:47:49,386 --> 00:47:51,216 with anyone there who is listening. 1083 00:47:51,553 --> 00:47:52,243 Emily: So, good. 1084 00:47:52,333 --> 00:47:54,913 Well, I look forward to staying in touch and chatting soon, Tanya. 1085 00:47:54,913 --> 00:47:55,903 Tanya: Thank you, Emily. 1086 00:47:55,908 --> 00:47:57,463 Thank so good to chat with you.