How do I go about getting my name out about being an event consultant?

I am currently employed full-time as an events specialist at a new york based PR Firm. However, I would like to eventually be self-employed and work as an event’s consultant- primarily for corportate events. My goal is to be able to create my own schedule and work from home, while doing what I love to do-events! Any ideas how to get the word out besides a cold call?
I am currently employed full-time as an events specialist at a new york based PR Firm. However, I would like to eventually be self-employed and work as an event’s consultant- primarily for corportate events. Being in NYC, it’s not as easy as putting my flyer in a local businesses or on a telephone pole. My goal is to be able to create my own schedule and work from home, while doing what I love to do-events! Any ideas how to get the word out besides a cold call?

NETWORK! Find out what kind of special events organizations are around and take active roles in them (your current job may actually pay the membership fees!). Join groups likeInternational Special Events Society, Meeting Planners International, and or your local Convention Bureau. The events business is cliquish, you have to know people. And, you have to be aroud a while because lots of people get in and out of the events business thinking its all glamourous and thus the players keep their distance until they know you are gonna be around for a while. Check out those groups…