In the past couple of months, I have posted some “what to wear” posts on the blog.  I covered what to wear to the wedding/event and what to wear to evening events (meaning industry events you are attending as a guest, not events you are working at).  I thought I would pick up on the series again with a few more entries over the next couple of weeks to round out the discussion.  I encourage you to read back over previous entries as needed.

A couple of weeks ago, we discussed whether or not wearing jeans to a client meeting is acceptable.  Prior to writing the post, I suspected that opinions would vary, and boy, was I was right!  While it seems that most planners err on the conservative side (as do I), some of the planners we have featured do wear jeans to client meetings.  It really all boils down to knowing your client base.  I encourage you to read the post and comments for more details, then decide for yourself what is best.

I think of a potential client meeting as a first date – I want to look my best.  Regardless of how they came in contact with me,  I dress pretty conservatively, keeping any “flair” down to just the smaller details of my attire.  Once I have a feel for the client’s personality, I may dress a little more casual at our subsequent meetings.  If I look my best at our initial meeting, then I feel confident and poised.  I can put my full concentration on how we can partner together on their wedding.

Here is a punch list of items I would choose from for a first time client meeting:

• Slacks – nicely tailored, lined slacks in a serious color such as gray, navy or black
• Skirt – no shorter than just above the knee, no longer than just below the knee
• Jacket – again, nicely tailored (fit means everything when it comes to a good jacket) and not too matchy-matchy with the slacks or skirt.  Note: I no longer wear matching suit jackets with slacks or skirts – I feel it ages you.  Mix and match your separates instead.
• Cardigan sweater set – our First Lady has this look down to an art (see below)
• Pullover sweater – you can’t go wrong with cashmere
• Basic white dress shirt
• Nice heels – make sure you are comfortable walking in them and that they are clean. Save the stilettos for evening.
• Simple jewelry such as classic diamond stud earrings or pearls
• Accent piece – when I’m feeling that my look is so conservative that I feel stifled, I use a bright, bold broach or scarf to accent my look with.  I would wear the broach on my jacket lapel or on the shoulder area (just above your heart) of a sweater.  If I decide to go with a scarf instead, I might tie it to my handbag, pulling a color from the attire I have chosen. 

Here are a couple of ideas for the look I’m referring to:

What do you wear to initial client meetings?  What are your tips for making a great first impression?  Let us know!