be innovative

I had the pleasure of hearing speaker Tom Koulopoulos yesterday. He began his presentation with this quote, Anything that can be invented, has been invented. As a wedding industry professional, do you believe that? If you do, then you will use the same vessels, the same menus, the same layouts as you always do for every bride that walks through your doors. You will not stretch yourself to be more innovative. As we jump into the 2011 wedding season, I encourage us all to be more innovative in every way possible. In our designs, in our networking, in our business practices. Every way. I know I have lots to do and lots to learn and lots to make strides in. But, you know what? I know what I don't know and I face that fact head on. Join me.

Oh, by the way, do you know who said the aforementioned quote? It was Charles Duell, former commissioner of the United States Patent Office. He made that statement in 1899.