From Armani to Disney: How I Landed Global Clients and Built a Creative Empire

In the world of business, especially the creative industry, reaching international markets can feel like the ultimate milestone. I’ve been fortunate enough to work with globally recognized brands like Giorgio Armani, Moët and Chandon, Victoria's Secret, BMW, and Cirque du Soleil, among many others. While each of these collaborations may seem like a grand leap, I’ve developed a system that has allowed me to turn local success into international recognition.

The truth is, expanding globally isn't just about luck or being in the right place at the right time. It’s a process that can be replicated by any driven and talented creative entrepreneur. My journey from local to global success was built on a five-step process that you can adopt to reach international clients and expand your business beyond borders. Let’s dive into that journey.

1. Discover he #1 secret to Land International Clients for Your Creative Business

We all dream of seeing our work in the hands of global brands. Who wouldn’t want to have their name associated with iconic companies like Giorgio Armani, Moët and Chandon, Victoria's Secret, Disney, or National Geographic Kids? But what if I told you that the path to those glittering collaborations is simpler than you think? The truth is, it all starts with one little thing: asking. Yup, that’s right. Most people wait for the perfect opportunity to fall into their laps, but the magic happens when you take that bold step and just ask.

Sure, you need strategies like building a strong brand and networking, but let me let you in on a secret—asking is the game-changer. I’ve cold-called the heads of massive brands, asked for jobs, stage spots, and deals, and that’s how I landed most of my high-profile collaborations. I want to show you how to break into the international market by leveraging the same audacity that has taken me from local success to global recognition.

2. Establishing a Strong Brand Identity: Your Passport to the World

First things first: if you want to go global, you need a brand that’s built to travel. Think of your brand as your passport. Whether you’re a designer, photographer, consultant, or content creator, you need a brand identity that speaks for you long after you leave the room.

When I began working with global brands like Giorgio Armani and Moët and Chandon, my brand didn’t scream “local.” I knew that if I wanted to break into the international market, I had to build a brand that stood for more than just my geographic location. I made sure my visual identity, messaging, and social media presence looked like they belonged on a global stage.

Actionable Tip:

• Consistency is key. Make sure your website, portfolio, and social media speak the same language—literally and visually. The fonts, colors, and tone of voice should scream, “I’m ready for international clients.” Invest in quality branding. Your visuals should give off the same vibe as the high-end clients you’re aiming to work with.

3. Networking with Global Influencers: Relationships Open Doors

Now, I know you’ve heard this a thousand times: networking is everything. But I’m here to tell you that networking isn’t just shaking hands at local events and collecting business cards. No, no, no. When you’re aiming for international clients, your network should look global too.

I can’t tell you how many times simply knowing the right person has led me to the kind of deals you dream about. When I worked with Disney, it didn’t happen because I sat back and hoped for magic to come my way. I reached out, I attended global conferences, I slid into people’s DMs on LinkedIn—and yes, I asked for introductions.

Actionable Tip:

• Make the world your playground. Don’t just attend local events—get involved in international expos, webinars, and summits. Reach out to influencers or industry leaders abroad and start building those global connections. It’s easier now than ever with platforms like LinkedIn. Comment on their posts, engage in meaningful conversations, and when the time is right, ask for a quick coffee chat (virtual or in-person) to discuss potential collaborations.

4. Creating Scalable Systems for International Clients: Make Room for Growth

Once the ball starts rolling and those international clients start coming in, you need to be ready to deliver without crumbling under pressure. The global stage comes with its own set of challenges—time zones, bigger teams, and higher expectations. I quickly realized that to maintain relationships with brands like Victoria's Secret and Cirque du Soleil, I needed to build scalable systems that could handle the demand.

I set up automated systems for project management, billing, and communication. I also made sure that my team was prepared to work with clients in different parts of the world. Scaling doesn’t just mean doing more work—it means doing it smarter.

Actionable Tip:

• Invest in technology: Use project management tools like Asana or Monday to keep track of deadlines, tasks, and client communication. Automate your invoicing and payments with platforms like PayPal or Stripe. Ensure you have the bandwidth—both in terms of your team and your technology—to deliver on larger projects.

5. Leveraging Existing Local Success for Global Outreach: Start Where You Are

Here’s the kicker: you don’t need to reinvent the wheel to go global. You can leverage the local success you’ve already built. When I first approached National Geographic Kids and L’Oréal Paris, I didn’t just talk about my aspirations. I showed them my track record with local brands that had already seen success thanks to my work. Your local success is your launchpad.

International clients are impressed when they see you’ve already produced results, even if those results are on a smaller, local scale. Use your local projects as proof that you know what you’re doing, and then boldly ask for a seat at the global table.

Actionable Tip:

• Case studies, case studies, case studies: Document your wins with local clients. Create detailed case studies showcasing how your work brought them success, and highlight metrics that matter (revenue growth, increased engagement, etc.). Share these case studies with your international prospects—it shows that you can deliver results no matter where you’re based.

The Boldness Factor: Asking for What You Want Is Half the Battle

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter. Here’s the real secret sauce to my success: I simply asked for what I wanted. Every time I reached out to someone at Giorgio Armani or Moët and Chandon, I wasn’t afraid of hearing a “no.” I cold-called, sent direct emails, slid into LinkedIn messages—you name it. By the time I got to working with Cirque du Soleil and Victoria's Secret, I realized that boldness was what set me apart.

Most people hesitate to reach out to big brands because they think they’re not ready or good enough. But guess what? Those big brands are looking for people who have the guts to ask. Boldness combined with a solid pitch can take you further than you’d imagine.

Actionable Tip:

• Pick up the phone (or send that email): The next time you see an opportunity with a brand you admire, don’t wait for an introduction. Reach out directly. Send them an email, share your portfolio, and ask for a meeting. The worst they can say is “no,” but even that leaves you in the same position you were in before you asked. On the other hand, they might just say yes, and that’s where the magic happens.

Conclusion: Boldness Plus Strategy = Global Success

So, there you have it. The key to landing international clients isn’t rocket science. Yes, you need a strong brand, great networking skills, and scalable systems, but above all, you need to be bold. Ask for the opportunities you want, leverage your local success, and be ready to step up when the world says yes.

Your creative business can go global—it’s just one bold step away. Ready to make that move? Pick up the phone, send that email, and watch as your business starts to span continents.