When a client refers new business to you, it is important to thank her with a gift or a note. A referral is when a client recommends your services to a friend, family member, or colleague. Referrals are a compliment to you as an event planner, so send a thank-you to reciprocate the goodwill.

Too many times in this industry clients are not recognized for referrals. Repeat clientele and referrals can turn your event-planning company into a success. One way to show you appreciate your client's efforts to send you new business is to send a small gift. For ideas, think of events you have planned together in the past. A bottle of his favorite wine or a teapot he remarked on would make a thoughtful gift. A gift certificate to a new restaurant in town with a nice note attached would be an easy gift to send by mail.

Some event planners save their appreciation and send gifts around the holidays. For gift ideas, try recreating your client's event centerpiece. Send it to her home if you know she is entertaining guests for a special occasion. Another thoughtful holiday gift would be to send a framed photograph of your client at her event. The photo will evoke the festive memories from her event.

A gift is not always the best way to send thanks. If you are not involved in your clients' charities already, send a note offering your services for the next event. You can also make a donation directly to his charity. In your thank-you note, you might simply offer to attend his next fundraiser as a guest.

The follow-up is an important instrument in the event-planning process. It allows for proper closure to your client relationship. The follow-up also allows you to extend your gratitude to your vendors, and it is a great way to attract new business. The most important lesson from the follow-up call is allowing your client to critique your performance as an event planner. How you use this criticism for future events is up to you.