Networking as a creative entrepreneur in Michigan

I’ll be honest, starting a business is more complicated than I expected. I mean, I graduated with a liberal arts degree -- not business management. Once I realized that I needed to seek external support in order to build a business, I turned to one of my favorite digital marketing influencers, Jenna Kutcher. She encourages the listeners of her podcast, Goal Digger, to join the Rising Tide Society.

If you have ever wondered about the origin of the hashtag #communityovercompetition, it's the Rising Tide! In essence, the organization is a national support group by creatives for creatives. There are local chapters, referred to as "Tuesdays Together" where members meet once a month to discuss topics such as SEO, websites, Pinterest for business, etc. Basically, these monthly meetings serve as a mastermind and networking opportunities.

​"We believe an empowered creative economy will change the world. By elevating the voices of creatives around the world, sharing their stories, and building a thriving online and offline community, we support the creative in their pursuit of a sustainable livelihood. Empowerment begins with saving creatives time and money."
- The Rising Tide Society's website

For me, the Rising Tide's networking opportunities have extend well beyond the confines of Tuesdays Together, taking form in the collaborative efforts of styled photo shoots. Anyone in the wedding industry knows how imperative styled shoots are to get your business out there and building your portfolio (along with how much time goes into coordinating these events).

More, styled shoots serve as a space to mingle with other talented creatives. Above are pictures from events I attended, hosted at the Iroquois Club and the Cross W. Ranch.

If you're a creative and are looking for more support and accountability in your artistic endeavors, I would highly suggest joining your local chapter of the Rising Tide Society.
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Stay tuned for more journeys and resources chronicling the uncharted territories of entrepreneurship. :)