The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business

Do you prefer to take photographs digitally or with film? Listen as Andy and Rachel discuss Jose Villa and why he uses film almost exclusively. Rachel is the Owner and CEO of The Lake Como Wedding Planner based in Como, Italy. She works with clients directly but also has the pleasure of morphing into the local team for many foreign agencies such as planners in the states like Lisa Vorce on Chrissy Tegan and John Legend's wedding, Colin Cowie, and many more. Jose Villa is a celebrity photographer known for crafting vibrant, fine art images that are as unique as the people in the photographs. Jose has been published in many magazines around the world and was listed in the Top 10 Wedding Photographers in the World by the American Photo Magazine. This interview from two years ago is being re-released to get you ready for Part 2 coming out in a few weeks. Rachel has worked with Jose many times and shares how focused he is on-site, his underlying intuition and empathy when shooting weddings. They chat about how important it is to connect with the client, whether you are the photographer, the planner, the entertainment, or any other creative partner in the industry. The more you feel connected and know the client, the more you want to do a better job because you have a personal bond with them. Listen, as Andy and Rachel discuss how guests taking pictures with their phones can get in the way during the ceremony and why they should just sit back and let the professional photographers do their jobs. Plug into this episode and keep a lookout for Part 2 in the next few weeks. Show Highlights: [00:45] Welcome to the show again, Rachel! [01:54] Rachel shares that she has worked with Jose many times. [02:46] Rachel speaks about the fact that Jose uses mostly film and how it has a beautiful look that has become very popular. [04:36] They talk about how the focus has to be so in-depth when shooting with film. [05:49] Rachel shares that having seen Jose work, she understands how focused he is when he is on-site, and has an underlying sense of intuition and empathy. [08:33] Andy shares about a destination wedding he just did and how connected he felt to the client. [09:46] Rachel chats about how important it is with clients, it creates another level of trust. [14:03] Rachel shares that it makes a special moment if you put your phone away and enjoy the moment. [14:54] Thank you, everyone, for listening. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Find Jose: Jose Villa Jose's Book: Fine Art Wedding Photography @jose-villa Facebook @josevillaphoto Pinterest @josevilla Instagram This Week's Guest Co-Host, Rachel Birthistle Rachel Birthistle Rachel@lakecomoweddings Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest Links The Lake Como Wedding Planner

REVISIT: Jose Villa is a fine art wedding photographer known for crafting vibrant, fine art images that are as unique as the people in the photographs. Jose has been published in many magazines around the world, including Grace Ormonde Wedding Style, Elegant Bride, Instyle Weddings, Inside Weddings, Brides Magazine, Modern Bride, Weddings, Brides, Pacific Weddings, Southern Weddings and many more. Jose has been named a top wedding photographer in Martha Stewart Weddings, Harper's Bazaar, Style Me Pretty, and Vogue, and was recently listed in the Top 10 Wedding Photographers in the World by American Photo Magazine. Jose was born in Mexico but grew up in Solvang, California. He attended Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, California and is the author of Fine Art Wedding Photography. Show Highlights: Jose opens up about his parents' initial reaction to him wanting to be a photographer. What motivated Jose initially to take photography classes in high school. The one person who helped boost Jose's confidence as a young photographer. How did Jose get his first gig as a wedding photographer? Jose defines what fine art photography is when it comes to weddings. Why does Jose continue to shoot in film, even after the rise of digital photography? The things Jose worries about when waiting for developed film to come back. Jose shares the reason candid photos mean so much at a wedding, especially to friends and family. Jose believes that a photographer's presence at a wedding impacts the event as a whole as well as the bride and groom's wedding day experience. What do you do if guests pull out cameras or cell phones during the ceremony? Jose shares his to-to gear for shooting weddings in film. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Find Jose: Jose Villa Jose's Book: Fine Art Wedding Photography @jose-villa Facebook @josevillaphoto Pinterest @josevilla Instagram The Man Who Listens To Horses by Monty Roberts

Listen to Andy and Bruce Russell as they discuss Tara Fay and her interview with Andy last Monday. Bruce is the owner and managing director of By Bruce Russell, based in London. He plans, designs, and coordinates wedding parties and other events around the globe. Bruce is also the co-star of RTE Ireland's production of My Big Day: Home or Away along with Tara Fay. Tara is the owner of Tara Fay Events, based in Dublin, Ireland. She has produced some of the most high profile events and weddings in Ireland and throughout Europe, the United States and the Caribbean. Tara has won several event industry awards, and is the co-star of RTE Ireland's TV production of My Big Day: Home or Away with Bruce. Listen as Andy and Bruce speak about the TV show My Big Day: Home or Away. Also, hear about Tara's ability to be observant and know what her guests want and need and how planners are not paid for what goes right; they are paid for how they handle what goes wrong. They talk about how Tara likes to tie referral clients back to an event and her ability to keep clients for repeat events, which she calls "legacy clients." Do you give young planners the chance to learn from you? Having a mentor helped Tara become the planner/designer that she is today, and Bruce agrees that providing interns an opportunity to learn the business can only benefit the next generation. This is a fascinating conversation about Ireland's premier event planner, and you won't want to miss a moment of this episode. Show Highlights: [01:01] Welcome to the show Bruce! [02:25] Bruce and Andy speak about the TV show. [03:38] They talk about Tara's ability to be observant around guests and how she has mastered the art of hosting. [05:19] Bruce agrees with Tara that they are not being paid for what goes right but for how you handle what goes wrong. [06:40] The guests should never know if something goes wrong. As far as they are concerned, it is all perfect. [07:44] Bruce believes that you should empower your team to come to you with a solution instead of a question. [10:46] Andy and Bruce discuss how Tara likes to tie referrals back to an event so that she can get a look at what they are expecting. [12:06] Have you ever heard the term "legacy client?" How do you stay in touch with past clients? [14:28] If you are lucky enough to have a mentor who wants to teach you, you should jump in with both feet and learn everything you can. [15:45] Bruce shares that bringing in interns to teach is helping the next generation become the best they can be. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Find Tara: Tara Fay Tara Fay on The Wedding Biz @tarafayevents Twitter | Facebook | Instagram Bruce and Tara Live YouTube This Week's Guest Co-Host, Bruce Russell Bruce Russell Bruce Russell on The Wedding Biz @bybrucerussell Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest Bruce and Tara Live YouTube

"You have to be open to listening because you are never going to pick something up; otherwise." Tara Fay has become an icon in the wedding and event industry by listening. When she got the opportunity to intern with a seasoned event planner, she soaked up everything about the business and now teaches interns herself. Tara is the owner of Tara Fay Events, based in Dublin, Ireland. She has produced some of the most high profile events and weddings in Ireland and throughout Europe, the United States and the Caribbean. Tara has won several event industry awards, was previously voted Ireland's Premier Wedding Planner by Social and Personal Magazine, and is a sought after speaker at wedding events and lectures students on wedding and event planning. Tara is the co-star of RTE Ireland's TV production of My Big Day: Home or Away along with Bruce Russell. Listen in as Tara speaks about being lucky and how she believes everything is chance. Tara shares a story about the first event she planned when she started her business, why she went back to Ireland instead of staying in Los Angeles, and her love of challenges. Tara shares why she believes the decor and design are so important, her goal of designing to a guest's five senses and her process from start to finish with new clients. "You are earning your money when something goes wrong, not when everything goes right." Tara has confidence that as long as she gets a little notice, she can pretty much fix anything. Listen in as she describes starting a business while raising her three children, planning funerals, and how she views success. Trust me when I say you don't want to miss this episode. Show Highlights: [02:06] Welcome to the show Tara, from Engage in Mexico. [02:41] Tara shares a little about her background and the disco events she planned in secondary school. [04:20] Did you go to school for anything related to the event industry? [05:45] Tara went to college for Business and Languages but got a Master's in Marketing and Law. [07:00] Tara shares how she got her start in the wedding and events industry. [09:44] She believes that everything is by chance, and she lucked out getting to work with the event planner that mentored her. [11:00] Did you consider staying in Los Angeles instead of going back to Ireland? [11:39] Tara's company was the first wedding and event company in Ireland. [13:07] Tara loves a challenge, so starting her company was something she put 100% of herself into even when everyone told her she would fail. [14:41] What kind of reaction did you receive from the public? Did you have any contacts? [15:37] Tara shares a memory from the first event she planned. [18:18] Tara believes you must play to the guest's five senses to make each event memorable. [19:33] Tara speaks about how the decor and design can instantly impact the guests. [20:44] Listening to the client is the most important thing you can do. You have to know what they want. [21:35] Tara shares her process from start to finish when meeting a new client and gives some examples. [24:15] Listen as Tara chats about why the entertainment part of an event is so important, especially in Ireland. [26:14] What are some of the challenges you've had to work with during an event? [28:40] They discuss how the planner is the barometer of how an event is going, so you must not show any distress. [30:01] How do you approach running the business aspect of your company? [31:35] Tara believes that about 70% of her clients are referrals that come from events she has previously planned. [34:50] Tara shares about the TV show she co-stars in with Bruce Russell, My Big Day: Home or Away. [36:03] She speaks about meeting Christina Matteucci and David Beahm in a taxi at a conference. [37:42] They discuss what Tara spoke about at the Engage conference. [39:40] How hard was it to start a business and raise your three children at the same time? [42:17] Tara shares about planning funerals, what is involved, and who requests her. [43:39] Where do you see yourself in the next five years? [45:02] Tara describes how she views success. [45:32] Thank you so much, Tara, for being on the show! LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Find Tara: Tara Fay @tarafayevents Twitter | Facebook | Instagram Bruce and Tara Live YouTube Mentioned: David Beahm on The Wedding Biz Christina Matteucci on The Wedding Biz Bruce Russell on The Wedding Biz Ed Libby

Tara Fay and Andy discuss Bruce Russell in this episode of The Next Level. Tara is a brilliant planner and designer based in Dublin, Ireland, who is also the co-star of RTE Ireland's production of My Big Day: Home or Away along with Bruce Russell. Tara will also be on The Wedding Biz next week, so tune in then to hear more about her and her events. Bruce is the owner and managing director of By Bruce Russell, based in London. He is a planner, designer, and coordinates wedding parties and other events around the globe. He was named Best Wedding Planner by Belle International Bridal Awards and has been featured in International Publications such as Brides, Mayfair Magazine, and Hello Fashion, to name a few. Listen in as Tara shares how she handles clients that aren't a good fit and why she feels it is her job to help couples make more informed decisions around their weddings. Tara also speaks about teaching hoteliers how to show venues for wedding couples. Tara and Andy discuss timelines for events, they talk about digital agencies, and how she is so fascinated by what they do. Tara's perspective on Bruce is top-notch. You can tell that they are great friends. Listening to her allows you more insight into the event planning and design industry, and her input on the fascinating interview with Bruce shows the intricacies they face with each event. Show Highlights: [01:05] Welcome to the show, Tara! [02:31] Tara shares that when a couple comes to you to plan their wedding, it is almost like being a therapist because usually, they haven't talked about what they want as a couple. [03:44] How do you handle clients if you feel they are not a good fit for you? [05:09] Tara shares her techniques for managing a client. [06:26] Tara agrees with Bruce that clients make emotional decisions around finances when it comes to their weddings. [07:51] Tara believes she is responsible for slowing couples down and getting them to realize the implications of what they want. [08:46] Tara agrees with Bruce about the fact that hoteliers are not trained to show a venue as a wedding venue. [11:01] Tara shares that you shouldn't have a timeline template for a wedding because each wedding is different. [14:19] Tara speaks about working with a digital brand marketing agency and how fascinating it has been. [16:06] Thank you, everyone, for listening! Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Find Bruce: Bruce Russell @bybrucerussell Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest Bruce and Tara Live YouTube This Week's Guest Co-Host, Tara Fay Tara Fay @tarafayevents Twitter | Facebook | Instagram Bruce and Tara Live YouTube

"An event is theatrical, and it's more than just a wedding or an event; it brings people together." This is what fuels the passion that Bruce Russell has for planning weddings and events. His goal with each event is to produce the most memorable experience possible. Listen as he shares how he started in the industry and his journey to success. Bruce is the owner and managing director of By Bruce Russell, based in London. He is a planner, designer and coordinates wedding parties and other events around the globe. He was awarded Best Wedding Planner by Belle International Bridal Awards and has been featured in International Publications such as Brides, Mayfair Magazine, and Hello Fashion, to name a few. He is the co-star of RTE Ireland's production of My Big Day: Home or Away, with Tara Fay, and has appeared on many other TV shows. Bruce shares his journey of growing up in a small fishing village in Nova Scotia to New York after 9/11 to end up in London. He speaks about leaving his corporate job, starting his event business, and the creative way he got his first clients plus the recognition that he needed. Bruce also talks about his process with prospective new clients and making sure that they understand how he works. Listen in as they discuss Bruce and Tara Fay's TV show My Big Day: Home or Away, what it's like to have a camera follow you around, and how the two co-stars get along on and off the show. They also talk about Bruce and Tara's YouTube channel, and how they are helping people with questions they don't know to ask. Bruce is one of those guys who doesn't take anything for granted and is a joy to listen to so you don't want to miss this episode. Show Highlights: [02:23] Bruce, welcome to the show from Engage in Mexico. [03:00] Bruce shares his upbringing in a tiny fishing village in Nova Scotia. [05:02] In school, did you do anything that led you toward the career you have today? [07:17] Bruce chats about working at a hotel after college for fifteen years, moving around the world with the Fairmont chain, and ending up in New York after 9/11. [09:33] How did you end up in London? [12:24] Bruce enjoyed hosting and entertaining people so much that he decided to launch his own event planning business. [13:45] Were you scared to leave the corporate job and start your own business? [15:20] Bruce shares how he used his previous contacts at the Savoy Hotel to get his first wedding clients and get his name out there. [17:52] Bruce says that an event is theatrical, and it's more than just a wedding or an event. It's bringing people together. [19:10] Bruce chats about his process when consulting with a prospective new client. [22:22] Bruce believes that weddings are when couples are making their most significant financial decisions with their emotions. [25:46] Bruce shares a story about a wedding he did in Marrakesh, which started the destination wedding side of his business. [28:15] How do you go about finding local experts whom you can trust? [29:44] Bruce chats about flow and entertainment and what he means by that. [30:48] He gives us an example of an event where the flow was interrupted, but the guests were so entertained that they never noticed. [35:13] Since wedding planning is one of the top ten most stressful, how do you handle the stress? Does stress keep you focused? [37:26] Bruce speaks about the TV show he hosts with Tara Fay and the concept of the show. [40:40] Bruce tells us that he and Tara are experts, not influencers; they are trying to educate people on how to do things well. [41:04] What is it like having a camera follow you around everywhere? [43:55] Bruce chats about the new YouTube channel that he and Tara have to help people with things they don't think to ask. [45:04] Bruce shares how he balances everything he has on his plate. [46:52] Thank you so much for being on the show, Bruce! LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Find Bruce: Bruce Russell @bybrucerussell Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest Bruce and Tara Live YouTube Mentioned: Tara Fay

Andy recently attended the Bridelux Conference in New York City. He was asked to select a panel of professionals to discuss the importance of personal connection in the wedding and events industry. His panel consisted of Sylvia Weinstock, Ceci Johnson, and Christian Oth; three amazing innovators in their fields of culinary arts, invitation design, and photography. Listen in as they chat about client relationships, establishing trust, and how to break the ice in the first interview. Sylvia, at 90 years young, is one of the great industry entrepreneurs and is best known for creating edible art. Ceci is the Founder and Creative Director of Ceci New York and has been called an invitation design icon. Christian is the Founder and Creative Director of Christian Oth Studio. He is a world-renowned editorial photographer and has pioneered a distinctly evocative and authentically emotional editorial style. All three of these amazing professionals have been interviewed on The Wedding Biz. Andy highly respects each of them and was excited to include them on his panel. Listen closely as they discuss "audacious transparency," knowing when a prospective client isn't the right fit for your business, and how hard an event planner's job is. They talk about being open and honest with new clients, conflicts at weddings that don't necessarily involve the bride and groom, and having a quality wedding on a budget. With Andy Kushner at the helm, you have a group of individuals who have done it all and made it look easy. When you are lucky enough to be in a room with this kind of talent, you need to pay attention because what they have to say will resonate with anyone in any industry. You don't want to miss this once in a lifetime episode! Show Highlights: [03:21] Listen as Andy describes The Wedding Biz podcast to the audience. [05:12] Andy introduces the panel members, Sylvia Weinstock, Ceci Johnson, and Christian Oth. [08:10] He explains how he came up with the topic for their discussion. [09:14] Andy describes what Christina Matteucci meant when she coined the phrase "audacious transparency." [10:35] Sylvia gives her thoughts on being open and honest with clients. [12:27] Ceci agrees and discusses how you open up with someone when you don't know them. [14:36] Christian says that the client is also the subject, so it's essential that he has a personal connection with them. [16:38] They each speak about what they do to break the ice on the first interview. [21:44] If you share with the client, treat them like a friend and make them comfortable, they respond better. [24:26] Have you ever met with a prospective client that you knew wasn't the right fit for you? No matter what you do they are not happy? [27:25] Sylvia states that when you are in the service industry, you have to know that you can't make everyone happy. [29:00] They all chat about how planners have to be a particular type of person because it's a tough job. [32:01] Happy 90th birthday Sylvia!! [33:36] Christian describes a time when there was a conflict with family members of the bride and groom and how it affected the wedding. [34:48] Sylvia asks Christian about someone having limited funds and if they can still have a great photographer. [35:34] Ceci chats about her ready-to-order line that has a lower price point so that you can still get excellent quality. [36:20] Sylvia, what are you planning to do now that you've retired? [38:31] Thank you, everyone, for coming, and thank you, Sylvia, Christian, and Ceci. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Bridelux www.bridelux.com Panel Members: Sylvia Weinstock Sylvia Weinstock on The Wedding Biz Ceci Johnson Ceci Johnson on The Wedding Biz Christian Oth Christian Oth on The Wedding Biz Mentioned: Christina Matteucci on The Wedding Biz

Greg Finck is Andy's guest on this episode of The Next Level. Greg is a wonderful and brilliant photographer, based in Paris, and is here with Andy to discuss Alejandra Poupel. Alejandra is the owner of Alejandra Poupel Events and is based out of Paris as well, she plans and designs for a wide variety of events all over the world. Greg and Alejandra both work all over the globe, and they believe that when you operate internationally, you must plan your events to work with different cultures. Hence, her events and his photographs tend to be tailor-made for those unique clients. He also agrees with her that to have a successful company the business side is just as important as the creative side. Andy and Greg also dive into what Alejandra said about the importance of using Instagram to not only focus on the client but when possible, to help showcase yourselves and the other vendors at events. You must always put the client first, but helping the other vendors when you can, helps build a camaraderie that can land you more events and, with the destination wedding market so strong in Europe, the growth potential is limitless. Listen to Andy and Greg discuss this fantastic entrepreneur; her insight and talent are what sets her apart. Alejandra has the business acumen and creative expertise to be around the industry for many years to come. If you haven't listened to her episode of The Wedding Biz, you should because you don't want to miss the chance to hear how she became the businesswoman she is today. Show Highlights: [01:18] Welcome to the show, Greg! [02:20] Greg agrees with Alejandra that when planning events around the world, you have to tailor-make each event for the different cultures. [04:51] They discuss the difference in each culture with examples about Middle Eastern and Chinese weddings. [06:49] Greg speaks about how important Instagram is to photographers and planners in the industry today. [09:46] He feels that you need to serve the client first but also help the vendors out by getting good shots of their offerings too. [11:03] Greg agrees with Alejandra on how business and being creative share equal elements of a successful company. [15:15] Do you agree that the destination wedding market in Europe is growing exponentially? [16:38] Greg, thank you so much for being here today. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Find Alejandra: Alejandra Poupel @alejandrapoupelevents Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest This Week's Guest Co-Host, Greg Finck - Photographer Greg on Vimeo Greg's Website Greg's Workshop Instagram Facebook Greg on The Wedding Biz Mentioned: Rime Arodaky & Greg Finck on The Wedding Biz

Creating events for international clientele is Alejandra Poupel's realm of expertise. Alejandra is the owner of Alejandra Poupel Events based out of Paris. She caterers to an international clientele, all of whom have different expectations based on their cultural perspective. Listen in as they chat about her early position at Christie's, taking a pause to raise her daughters, and how she made the transition from art to event planning and design. Event planning to Alejandra means providing each client with a tailor-made event crafted just for them. She is multicultural and can speak six languages, which helps her to understand different cultures when working internationally. As examples, Alejandra shares a story about some of her biggest middle-eastern weddings. The fashion industry sets the trends when it comes to the decor at an event. Alejandra's goal is to create an event that has a theatrical point of view, meaning a beginning, middle, and end. She chats about some of the over-the-top requests, she has received, and how she does everything in her power to accommodate her clients. Alejandra often works at chateaus and monuments, each with their own unique set of complexities. She speaks about creating events for international corporations and how, even though she only has three full-time employees, she and her team are still able to handle significant events. Listen in as Alejandra explains the challenges she faces when planning weddings in exotic locations, where she believes the destination wedding industry will be in five years, and why your reputation is everything. Show Highlights: [01:45] Andy welcomes Alejandra Poupel to the show. [02:08] Alejandra chats about her upbringing, meeting the love of her life and moving to France. [02:59] Where did Alejandra find her passion for event planning?. [03:54] Learn how working at the famous Christie's Auction House influenced her future career. [07:03] Hear why raising her daughters resulted in her pausing her career. [08:58] Alejandra shares how she started in corporate events. [10:25] Alejandra tells us that an event has to be tailor-made for different cultures and different clients. [11:46] She speaks six different languages, which comes in handy while planning international events. [13:00] Alejandra says that with some of her clients' cultures, she has to find a balance between the older traditional parents and the younger brides and grooms. [14:07] How have you been able to work in all of these different cultures? [15:10] Alejandra shares an example of a middle eastern wedding, which has an element of a fashion show and is all women. [20:16] They discuss how the fashion industry sets the trend for event decor. [22:22] Alejandra speaks about creating a theatrical experience when doing an event. [23:59] She shares a story about an event where they designed a custom rose just for the client. [25:34] Can you tell us about an over-the-top request you have received from a client? [27:35] Alejandra speaks about the challenges she faces with the events she plans. [29:28] She gives us an idea of the kind of rules and regulations she must follow when working in chateaus and monuments. [31:45] Can you tell us a story about a challenge that you had to overcome when working with clients with exotic tastes? [35:31] Alejandra chats about creating events for international corporate clients. [37:56] She talks about using freelancers to help her three full-time employees when they are needed. [39:29] The six languages she speaks are Spanish, English, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Arabic. [40:38] How did you balance raising your daughters and work when starting your business? [42:15] Alejandra tells us about the topics she speaks about at conferences and why she loves being around her peers talking about the industry. [46:25] Where do you see yourself in five years? Are destination weddings going to continue to grow? [49:42] Alejandra says that success is her family. It is also waking up every morning being happy and having an excellent reputation. [51:06] Thank you so much for being on the show! LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Find Alejandra: Alejandra Poupel @alejandrapoupelevents Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest Mentioned: Lynn Easton Part 1 on The Wedding Biz Lynn Easton Part 2 on The Wedding Biz

Andy welcomes Jennifer Stein back to The Next Level. Jennifer is the Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Destination I Do Magazine, which can be found at newsstands in all fifty states and twelve countries. She also publishes a daily blog, consults, custom publishes, and is about to launch a new podcast. Michelle is a destination planner, producer, and designer based out of New York City who works all over the world. She has a book called "Signature Weddings - Creating A Day Uniquely Your Own," and she does many different types of events, she has even produced an event at the Vatican in Rome. They talk about how Michelle brings in clients and builds relationships, using print to market your business and the power that Michelle brings from a chaotic childhood to her business mindset today. Jennifer also talks about taking a step back, thinking things through before responding, and how critical conversations need to happen in person or on the phone. Did you know that fear can be a motivator? Listen in as Andy and Jennifer speak about letting fear motivate you but getting rid of the fear that doesn't serve you. These two always have the best deep conversations, and this is one that should be on your must-hear list. Take a moment to listen and think about what they are saying. Show Highlights: [00:52] As always, great to have you back, Jennifer! [02:13] Jennifer speaks about the way Michelle brings in clients and builds relationships and the different ways in which it can be done. [04:55] They talk about finding your strengths when it comes to closing business and how you can use print to increase business. [07:36] Jennifer talks about the power that can come from overcoming a chaotic background and making it work for you. [09:46] Do you take things personally when it concerns your business? Can you take a step back and realize it's just business? [11:00] Jennifer speaks about thinking things through and giving yourself time before responding. [12:43] Critical conversations need to happen in person or over the phone. [14:55] Do you believe you can make your own luck? [16:17] Jennifer agrees with Michelle. [19:08] Michelle believes that fear can be a motivator, Jennifer says that if fear doesn't serve you then figure out how to get rid of it. [22:53] They discuss the things they do to combat anxiety and how therapists have helped them over the years. [27:03] Jennifer, thank you so much for being here. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! How to find Michelle Michelle Rago Michelle Rago Part 1 on The Wedding Biz Instagram Twitter Facebook This Week's Guest Co-Host, Jennifer Stein Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Destination I Do Magazine Destination I Do Magazine Destination I Do Blog Jennifer Stein on the Wedding Biz Facebook Instagram | Twitter

Andy is happy to welcome Michelle Rago back for a second episode of The Wedding Biz. Michelle is a destination planner, producer, and designer based out of New York City who works all over the world. She has a book called "Signature Weddings - Creating A Day Uniquely Your Own," and she does many different types of events and has even produced an event at the Vatican in Rome. Michelle and Andy discuss an event she produced, in Rome, at the Vatican and a dinner for 400 that she did outside of the Vatican on the same day. She speaks about the challenges of planning events in foreign markets and how they are the same but different than planning them in the U.S. Michelle says having extreme patience is the only way she can do what she does all over the world. Michelle speaks about some of her favorite events of the last few years, how she builds the teams she needs both internationally and locally, and the challenges she faces with the countries that have a more laid back sense of time than what she is used to. She tells us about times when she has had to overcome obstacles in foreign countries while trying to get what was needed for an event and how much the industry has changed since she first started. Have you ever let fear stop you from doing something you wanted to do? Listen in as Michelle talks about how fear is around all the time and the key is not letting it discourage you from pursuing what you want to do and rather using it to our advantage. She also gives us insight into how she sells herself and her experience to her clients. Connection and authenticity are still the most important qualities you can have. Andy's amazing guests always share things you won't hear anywhere else, and this episode is no exception. Listening to Michelle will make your day and show you how to manage your fear of the unexpected. Don't miss this episode! Show Highlights: [01:26] Michelle, welcome back to the show! [02:26] She tells us about an event she produced at the Vatican. [06:00] Is planning an event in a foreign market complicated? [07:11] Michelle says that patience is a key element to handling situations that are inherent to destination events. [08:05] How do you put together teams for events both internationally and locally? [10:20] Michelle chats about a couple of her favorite events she's produced since her last appearance on The Wedding Biz. [11:57] How do you deal with the more laid back time schedules of different areas? [13:08] She speaks about unexpected challenges that have popped up which she needed to handle. [15:16] She chats about the constant changes in the industry and how much it has changed since she first started. [16:47] What kind of conferences do you go to? What kind of books do you read? [17:16] Andy tells her about the book The Obstacle Is The Way, by Ryan Holiday. [20:22] Planning is all human behavior, which makes it one of the ten most difficult jobs to do. [23:34] Michelle believes that you make your own luck, and she tells us about her new travel company called "The Known Traveler" that will be launched in early 2020. [26:22] She talks about feeling fear, but being less uptight, the closer she gets to a job. [28:47] Selling has changed over the years. Michelle talks about how she talks to her clients and the need to sell yourself and your experience. [30:48] Connection and authenticity are two of the most important aspects of the event industry today. [33:21] Michelle says that listening is one of her strong traits. [35:05] How do you get the relationships going? Do you do it all in-person? [37:10] She speaks about what is coming up for her as we go into 2020. [39:56] Michelle believes that she and her team are ambassadors of the business and the country. [40:28] She believes that the more you can get people on the same page, the more magic can occur. [41:06] Michelle, thank you so much for being on the show! LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! How to find Michelle Michelle Rago Michelle Rago Part 1 on The Wedding Biz Instagram Twitter Facebook Mentioned Vanessa Kreckel on The Wedding Biz The Obstacle Is The Way by Ryan Holiday Links Brides Magazine Vogue-Top Weddings of 2019 Vogue-Bobb Harpers Bazaar-Best

In this episode of The Next Level, Andy welcomes back Sean Low. Sean's consulting firm, The Business of Being Creative, focuses on providing practical advice to those in the business of being creative. His client list includes the who's who of the wedding industry and design community. John Emmanuel is the premier floral designer out of Sydney, Australia. He is best known for creating exquisite grand scale floral installations, and whatever he creates has a stunning element of luxury. A known leader in his market, John has worked alongside many high profile Australian wedding planners in continuous collaboration to some of Sydney's most luxurious events. He also hosts "The John Emmanuel Luxury Wedding Masterclass." Listen in as Andy and Sean discuss John's insight on being uncomfortable and how that keeps you from becoming complacent. They talk about how staying on brand is more important than losing clients and how being passionate about what you do is essential, but ultimately it is about making money. John believes that when posting pictures of an event on social media, they need to be exquisite to showcase the finished product. They talk about John's comment about the rush of and how once you get it going, the importance of slowing down and really connecting creatively with your clients and how that allows you to know on a deeper level what they want the outcome to be. It is always great to listen to Andy and Sean discuss icons of the industry, and this one is no exception. Listen as they chat about the brightest nuggets in John's interview and give their insights and comments. Show Highlights: [01:52] As always, great to have you back, Sean! [03:41] Sean discusses John's statement that being uncomfortable with what you are doing keeps you from becoming complacent. [05:34] They speak about how staying on the brand is more important than losing clients. [07:11] Being passionate about what you do is essential, but ultimately it is about making money. [08:38] Sean and Andy talk about how important it is for the pictures of an event for social media to look amazing. [10:25] Slowing down and taking time with clients allows you to connect with them on a deeper creative level. [12:40] Thank you for listening to today's episode. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Wedded Wonderland www.weddedwonderland.com How to Find John John Emmanuel @johnemmanuelfloralevents Instagram | Facebook This Week's Guest Co-Host, Sean Low, Founder and President of The Business of Being Creative LLC. Sean Low on the Wedding Biz The Business of Being Creative LLC The Business of Being Creative Collective Email Sean: [email protected] Sean:@seanlow Twitter | Instagram

In today's episode of The Wedding Biz, Andy is excited to welcome John Emmanuel. John is the premier floral designer out of Sydney, Australia. He is best known for creating exquisite grand scale floral installations, and whatever he creates has a stunning element of luxury. A known leader in his market, John has worked alongside many high profile Australian wedding planners in continuous collaboration with some of Sydney's most luxurious events. He also hosts "The John Emmanuel Luxury Wedding Masterclass." John takes us on a journey of his childhood, the tragedy of losing his mother at age three, and working at his grandma and aunt's floral shop at thirteen. He speaks about going to trade school on an apprenticeship at the age of fifteen to learn the floral business and why he has such a strong passion for weddings. He has a strong drive to succeed and he believes he got that from wanting more for himself and his children. Listen in as John discusses how he felt when he sold the retail part of his business to concentrate on the wedding event side. They chat about his personal signature and how he defines it, the procedure he goes through from start to finish with a client, and why the reception flowers are the most critical part of the wedding for him. Have you heard about John's new line of luxury silk flowers? He says that they have been very well received and allow people, who wouldn't be able to afford fresh flowers, to have the wedding of their dreams. John also describes his masterclass and what he will be teaching to the attendees. The passion that John has for what he does is contagious. You feel this intense desire to go straight to his website and see his amazing floral design images. Look him up and then listen to this episode, you will be glad you did! Show Highlights: [02:54] John, welcome to the show! [03:21] He was born in Australia, but his parents are from Maltese. [03:50] John tells us about where he grew up and a little of his family background and where he started in the florist industry. [05:52] They discuss tragedy and the influence it has on your life. [06:24] He talks about working in the family flower shop. [07:52] John tells us where his passion for weddings came from and what about them moves him so much. [09:03] Did you go to college after high school? [09:32] John went to a trade school on an apprenticeship to learn the florist industry at age 15. [10:49] Where did you get the courage to chase a dream at such a young age? [11:43] He started his own retail business and got married at a young age. [13:08] John discusses the change in the wedding industry and how that affected his retail stores. [14:21] Did you sell the retail side of the businesses because you felt you had enough clients on the wedding business side to compensate for the loss? [15:32] John discusses the risk he took when he decided to go all-in on the wedding event side. [16:47] How would you describe your personal signature to someone who doesn't know the business? [17:26] Reception flowers are what John loves the most; he tells us why. [18:24] John tells us what his process is starting with the first visit with his client through the actual event. [19:56] Do you appreciate when the client brings in a Pinterest board or pictures? [21:32] He speaks about his need to stay true to his brand even if it means losing a client. [21:52] John gives an example of one of his favorite events and what it felt like to see his design completed. [23:13] How do you handle unexpected challenges that occur during an event? [26:55] He discusses integrating the creative and business side of his business. [29:07] His wife and children are involved in his business as well, and he chats about the challenges this incurs. [31:08] How do you price what you do? Do you charge a styling fee? [32:24] He talks about how he handles economic challenges. [34:34] John tells us about his new line of luxury silk flower arrangements and why he started it. [36:51] Tell us about your John Emmanuel Luxury Wedding Masterclass and what you will speak about. [39:34] What tips would you give event designers when talking to their clients about floral design? [40:47] What would you tell a couple when it comes to choosing a floral designer? [42:11] Success for John is family, passion, and clients. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Wedded Wonderland www.weddedwonderland.com How to find John John Emmanuel @johnemmanuelfloralevents Instagram | Facebook Mentioned Diane Khoury of DK Weddings and Events

Andy welcomes Sean Low to this episode of The Next Level. Sean's company, The Business of Being Creative, focuses on providing practical advice to those in the business of being creative. His client list includes the whos who of the wedding industry and design community. Clane is an award-winning international photographer. His images have been featured in dozens of magazines, including PDM, National Geographic and Smithsonian. And he was inducted into all of the National Geographic Fine Art Galleries across the world! Sean and Andy talk about Clane's vulnerability, his perspective on people living the life they allow themselves to live, and why he believes that we should try to live in the moment. They speak about what Clane told us about his upbringing, leaving the Mormon church to be able to live the life he wanted and the hardships that came from it. Listen in as they discuss and bring their insights into some of the fantastic things that Clane said in the interview. How he captures the essence of a client's wedding in "one shot," the way he picks his clients and how he gambles when he thinks he can get the perfect unexpected photo. There are so many fantastic details about Clane's insights that you won't want to miss this episode. The conversations between Andy and Sean are always entertaining, so put your feet up and live in the moment! Show Highlights: [00:56] Welcome back yet again, Sean! [02:10] Sean speaks about Clane's vulnerability in the interview. [03:10] They discuss Clane's perspective about how you have the life that you allow yourself to have, and how self-aware he is. [04:24] Being here in the moment, not in the past or the future, is a challenge. [06:59] Sean talks about Clane leaving the Mormon church, his family, to be what he wanted to be, and going as far as living in his car. [08:42] They talk about Clane bringing out people's essence and the light that surrounds them. [10:14] Sean describes what Clane means by creating the essence of the wedding in one photo; he's a gambler when it comes to getting the image. [14:12] Clane uses the juxtaposition of light in the shadow of the dark to bring the pictures together in one moment to make the perfect photo. [15:45] Thank you, Sean, for being on the show. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com How to Find Clane Clane Gessel @clanegesselphotography Facebook @clanegessel Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest This Week's Guest Co-Host, Sean Low, Founder and President of The Business of Being Creative LLC. Sean Low on the Wedding Biz The Business of Being Creative LLC Email Sean: [email protected] Sean:@seanlow Twitter | Instagram

Andy is excited to welcome Clane Gessel to this episode of The Wedding Biz. Clane is an award-winning international photographer. His images have been featured in dozens of magazines, including PDM, National Geographic and Smithsonian. He was also inducted into all of the National Geographic Fine Art Galleries across the world! Clane speaks about growing up in a Mormon family in Seattle, where he got the inspiration to get into photography. He also talks about the reason he lived in his car during some tough times. Growing up the way he did allows him to understand vulnerability, and believes that you have to understand vulnerability to understand art. Clane feels that behind each of his iconic images is a fantastic love story. Listen in as Clane tells us his process for picking clients to work with, how he gets the amazing unexpected shots, and how he uses the rules of the camera against it to get the pictures he wants. He describes what he means when he says he wants to capture the essence of the wedding in one photo, how he uses light to the best advantage, and why he believes that color and light are both essential tools when telling a story. Traveling the world taking amazing photographs seems so glamorous and it is yet Clane says that success to him is just getting to do what he does with the people he respects in the industry. Being able to touch people's lives is why he loves photography, and he wouldn't have it any other way. Being passionate about capturing just the right photo is what makes Clane the best in the world at what he does. If you want a glimpse into his genius, you don't want to miss this episode, he lays it all out there for us, and you want to hear what he has to say. Show Highlights: [03:23] Welcome to the show, Clane! [04:08] Clane discusses what inspired him to get into photography. [05:13] He got into the art field because he felt he saw things differently than other people. [06:00] Clane speaks about growing up and how he wanted to give his clients things he never had. [07:19] He chats about being able to express himself through photography. [08:46] He lived in his car for a while out of high school. [10:06] Clane talks about being ostracised from the Morman community and his lack of contact with people for almost a year. [10:59] What happened when you graduated from college? Is that when you started taking photographs? [12:54] The ultimate challenge is living in the moment. [13:25] Being good at art is being good at being vulnerable. [14:38] Andy says that he can feel the emotionality that Clane achieves in the photos he takes of the couple on their wedding day. [15:43] Clane needs to know how the couple gets along as well as their vulnerabilities to be able to get the photographs he wants. [16:25] He meets each couple personally and they fill out a questionnaire as the first step to getting an understanding of who they are. [18:32] Do you ever have situations where the couples are just not able to go there? Are you very selective about who you will work with? [19:28] Clane explains what he means by capturing the essence of the wedding in "one shot." [21:22] Hear the process he went through to get one of his amazing pictures at a destination wedding in Iceland. [24:18] Getting the clients the photo they want, Clane says he has tunnel vision. [24:38] Clane discusses how he uses the camera's abilities "against it." [26:00] He chats about the responsibility of doing destination weddings and traveling around the world. [28:25] Do you ever have couples who say no to what you want to do? Do you try to get an iconic photo for every wedding? [30:05] Clane describes how he uses light to capture the beauty of a picture. [32:02] Color and light are both essential tools when telling a story. [33:32] He gives examples of some of his favorite images. [34:49] He believes that his most significant challenges are with the connection with the couples. [36:59] How are you looking at the business aspect of what you do? [38:03] Clane has brought on five new photographers to work with him. He explains why he did it. [39:33] He says that social media is a fastidious beast, you need it, but you also have to be very careful with it. [41:07] How do you approach networking? How do you choose the people you want to talk to? [44:36] Clane tells us that success is being able to do this, year after year, with the people he loves in the industry. [46:15] Thank you so much, Clane, for being on the show! LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com How to Find Clane Clane Gessel @clanegesselphotography Facebook @clanegessel Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest Mentioned Bryan Rafanelli on The Wedding Biz Bryan Rafanelli Revisit on The Wedding Biz David Stark Part 1 on The Wedding Biz David Stark Part 2 on The We

This episode of The Wedding Biz is Andy's first roundtable event held on the last day of Engage at Nizuc, Mexico. The roundtable guests for this episode are Rishi Patel, the CEO of HMR Designs, Carrie Goldberg, the Travel and Weddings Director at Harpers Bizzaar, and Christina Matteucci, the Executive Director of David Beahm Destinations. During the roundtable, Andy and each of his guests bring up a key takeaway that they got during the conference and discuss them as a group. Andy's takeaway from the conference was from Christina's message of "audacious transparency." Christina speaks about what she meant by that, and the group talks about vulnerability and owning your own personality. They discuss how social media can give a client a false perception of who you are, so when you meet the client for the first time, it is like an audition. Christina's surprising takeaway was from a breakout session with Bruce Russell and Tara Fay wedding and event planners with their TV show, My Big Day: Home Or Away. She loved what they said about taking care of each other behind the scenes because the TV show pits them against each other on-screen. The group speaks about always taking care of each other in the industry, information, and trade secret sharing because there is plenty of business to go around, and everyone's point of view is different. Rishi feels like knowing what you are selling is the biggest takeaway for him. The group agree and discuss how knowing what you have to offer makes it possible for the client to feel joy at the end of the day. You have to be yourself because you can't be like anyone else, and what you are can't be stolen. They also chat about how one of the focuses of this Engage was redefining the word luxury as a more authentic emotion, and how what used to be so different and unique is now quite common. A key takeaway for Carrie was pricing and making money. If you are not making a profit, then you are not in a business you have a hobby. The brain trust says that you should know what your profit margins are before the event even happens. After the fact, you should analyze it and decide what you will do or who you will work with on the next event. Listen in as the group discusses how they are preparing for whenever the next economic recession hits and getting lean now instead of waiting for the economy to force the issue. Keep listening after the roundtable for some great takeaways from other attendees of the conference like Sarah Schreiber of Martha Stewart Weddings, Julie Novack with PartySlate, Meggie Francisco with Meggie Francisco Events, Nicole Braghin of Plan Design Events and many more. They all have lovely things to say about what they learned at Engage, and you won't want to miss any nuggets of wisdom they share. Show Highlights: [01:31] Welcome to the show, Rishi, Carrie, and Christina!! [02:57] Christina tells us about "audacious transparency" and what she means by those words. [04:15] Rishi gives us his insight into transparent and owning your own personality. [04:51] Carrie agrees that if you are vulnerable with your clients, then they can be vulnerable to you. [05:29] They all discuss how social media can give clients a false perception of who you are before they ever meet you. You always have to bring it to the audition. [09:11] Don't try to win every client, just the ones that are right for you. [10:39] Rishi talks about his epiphany of "the things that land in your lap are meant to be and the ones that don't aren't." [11:26] Is it more important for them to see the brand or the human side? [12:37] Christina speaks about the takeaway she had from the conference. [14:45] Taking care of each other in the industry behind the scenes is so important. [17:43] Rishi's takeaway is that you need to know what you are selling. [20:07] Does the client feel joy at the end of the day? [22:16] Redefining the word "luxury" as a more authentic emotion was a big topic at this Engage conference. [24:18] The words planning, design, and production are thrown around to much. Rishi believes that terms like that need transparency and what the definition of each is. [26:40] Carrie's key takeaway was pricing and making money. [28:36] Rishi agrees that you should not be doing a job if it is not profitable and enough profit to make it worthwhile. [32:10] How are you prepared to handle a recession when it happens? What do you see happening in the industry in 2020? [35:00] Carrie speaks about diversity and inclusivity and sustainability. Going green as much as possible and contributing. [36:42] Andy talks about getting lean now before the economy forces the change. [38:17] Thank you all for doing this, it has been a pleasure. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Mentioned Rishi Patel on The Weddi

Andy is speaking with Carrie Goldberg on this episode of The Next Level. Carrie is the Travel and Weddings Director at Harpers Bazaar. She oversees all things, bridal, weddings, and travel for Bazaar.com. Carrie is also responsible for content strategy and visuals for Bazaar's digital travel and wedding verticals, and is the editor of Bazaar's new program called Bazaar Brides. Rime is a wonderful designer whose company is known as the "bridal house for rebel goddesses." Greg has been running the business side of Rime's business as her general manager for a little over a year, and they are engaged. Greg is a wonderfull photographer who was interviewed on The Wedding Biz this past October. Carrie and Andy speak about the edge that Rime's designs have, the different types of brides designers face, and how sometimes planners can focus on the person writing the check and not the bride herself. They also chat about the inherent issues with business that creative people can sometimes have and the challenges that can test your partnership in business and life. Do you use Instagram to market your business? Listen as Carrie and Andy talk about the benefits of Instagram, how it should be a part of every marketing campaign, and how your posts and direct messages should be authentic and personal. Enjoy this episode as they bring to life the thoughts and ideas of Rime and Greg. Show Highlights: [01:59] Carrie, welcome back to the show! [02:06] They discuss the edge that Rime has with her designs. [03:17] Carrie talks about the different types of brides and how it's easy to cater to the person writing the check. [04:43] Walking the aisle at a wedding can make a bride feel very vulnerable. [05:49] Carrie discusses the challenges that are inherent in creative people when it comes to business. [07:52] Is working together the real test of being true partners in business and personal? [09:09] They speak about Rime, allowing Greg to come into the company as her GM, it balances them to both be in the industry. [11:23] Instagram is not an option anymore, it should be included in every business strategy. It should be authentic and personal. [13:39] Do you your DM's personally? [14:13] Carrie, thank you so much for being on this episode! Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com How to Find Rime Rime Arodaky @rimearodaky Instagram | Twitter @rimearodakyparis Facebook Rime on Vimeo How to Find Greg Greg on Vimeo Greg's Website Greg's Workshop Greg@gregfinck on Instagram Greg@gregfinckphotographie on Facebook This Week's Guest Co-Host, Carrie Goldberg, Travel and Wedding Director at Harpers Bazaar Carrie on Instagram: @harpersbazaarus or @carrielauren Email Carrie: carrielgoldberg.com Harpers Bazaar Harpers Bazaar Bride Membership Mentioned Greg Finck on The Wedding Biz Laurie Arons on The Wedding Biz Jose Villa on The Wedding Biz

In this episode of The Wedding Biz, Andy is speaking with Rime Arodaky & Greg Finck. Rime is a brilliant designer based in Paris. She calls her Maison the Bridal House For Rebel Goddesses, inspired by women who are unapologetically themselves. Rime has been designing wedding gowns for and considers herself part of the new generation who decided to shake up the traditional wedding codes to bring style and attitude to a very static and conventional industry. Greg has been running the business side of Rime's business as her general manager for a little over a year and they are engaged. Greg is also a wonderful photographer who was interviewed on The Wedding Biz this past October. Rime tells us about growing up, knowing that she wanted to be a fashion designer. As a child, she designed gowns for her barbies and made up fashion catalogs with her designs for her mother and sister. Her father told her, when she was eighteen, that if this is what she wanted to do, she needed to pay her way through design school. So, she took a year off, worked, saved her money, and said she felt empowered by her ability to pay her own way. Rime discusses her first company and why she closed it, how working with other designers helped her learn the business and why she feels like she designs gowns for "rebel goddesses." Rime talks about her ready-to-wear ceremony collection, being the first to extend it to the international market and about Megan Markle being the first celebrity to wear one of her creations. Greg speaks about what he felt he could bring to the table for Rime's company, how it affected his photography business and the challenges of doing both. He says the most challenging part was getting Rime's twenty employees on board with him taking over and the changes that needed to be made. Listen in as Rime and Greg talk about building a business, where they see themselves in five years and how they incorporate Instagram into their business every day. This is a unique conversation from both the fashion design and business sides that you won't want to miss. Show Highlights: [03:01] Rime and Greg welcome to the show! [03:14] They talk about how modern technology has brought them all together from three different areas, Paris, New York, and Maryland. [03:31] Greg talks about speaking at Engage and what his topic of discussion was. [04:14] He shares with us his role at Rime's company. [04:49] Rime tells us about when she decided she wanted to be a designer, designing gowns for her barbie dolls and re-doing fashion catalogs. [08:02] She discusses being sure that she wanted to be a designer from age 4. [08:58] At age 18, she told her father she wanted to be a fashion designer, but he thought she was too immature. [10:45] She felt empowered by paying her way through school. [11:35] How did you go about finding your own voice? [12:26] Rime speaks about launching her first company in 2007 because she didn't want to work for others. She says it was a mistake at that time. [13:34] Once she closed her business, she went to work with others to learn how to effectively run a business. [14:15] She talks about her friends asking her to design their gowns for them because she had a different style than the norm. [16:13] Rime talks about her fashion blog and her ideal for the perfect wedding design. [17:24] Why she chose the phrase "bridal house for rebel goddesses." [19:21] Her father was her role model for what an entrepreneur should be. He raised her to be a strong woman. [20:12] In 2011, she expanded the bride's experience by introducing the ceremony collection. [22:04] Her first bridal week, in New York, was in 2016. She said it was a dream, and she recorded it live for Facebook. [23:17] She chats about how Megan Markle was the first celebrity to order one of her designs and how she has helped her line. [26:19] What is the process like when you choose a new line? [27:00] What is your technique for pulling out what you need to tell the story? [28:16] Rime talks about the vulnerability of her brides. [29:14] Her advice for a bride looking for a gown. [30:14] What is your advice for planners dealing with brides? [32:31] Greg talks about what he thought Rime's business needed when he got involved with it. [35:02] What were the first steps you took in her company? Did you have a plan? [37:58] Greg speaks about dealing with Rime's twenty employees and the challenge of them accepting change. [40:01] They discuss how much The Wedding Biz episodes with Cindy Novotny have helped them through this process. [41:27] How did you incorporate Instagram into your business? Did you have a strategy? [44:13] Rime talks about how many times a day she checks Instagram and how she still engages with her viewers. [45:17] Greg says that humility is essential because they are in the relationship business. [45:55] Where do you both see the company five years from now? What are the challenges? [48:30] Rime and Greg, thank you so much for being on the show!! LINKS &

The Next Level welcomes Shannon Leahy to the show. Shannon is the owner of Shannon Leahy Events, based out of San Francisco and Los Angeles. She designs weddings and events worldwide and has been named one of the top wedding and event planners in the world by Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides, and Harpers Bazaar. Shannon has also authored an online course called WED School to teach aspiring wedding professionals about the world of high-end weddings and event design. Although Adam isn't in the events industry, he has a lot of great ideas on how to most effectively use Instagram. He speaks about how to improve your Instagram presence, gives great tips on how to engage followers, and advice for people who conduct workshops or even just a creative way to partner with friends in the industry. He also talks about IGTV and how to use this to your advantage to gain followers. Have you ever left a voice DM instead of just writing a message? Andy and Shannon give their insights to Adam's thoughts on why a voice DM is better, his ways of using Instagram Live, how to use Q & A's to engage followers, and conduct mini-summits. They also discuss the fact that posting on IGTV will significantly help you grow your audience. Listen in as they bring out the highlights of this very informative interview. If you are as in the dark about all the ways to use Instagram as we are, you need to listen to Adam's interview on The Wedding Biz. Take notes because he gives step-by-step instructions ...you can't miss this episode. Show Highlights: [00:59] Welcome to the show Shannon! [02:32] Shannon talks about Instagram being huge for her business and how she uses and benefits from it. [03:46] Do you personally run your own Instagram page? [04:30] They chat about Adam's idea of leaving voice DM's instead of a written message. [06:25] Have you ever done a split-screen interview or Q & A on Instagram? [08:10] Shannon says everyone should ask themselves, what am I using my Instagram for? Is it up to date? [10:13] They discuss using Instagram as a platform to have weekly live mini summits. [12:20] You can use IGTV to post videos of what is happening behind-the-scenes at your events. The algorithm is heavily weighted in favor of these videos. [13:42] Shannon agrees with Adam about using smaller-volume hashtags instead of high-volume ones. [15:30] She believes that using the old school way of engaging your audience by following, liking, and commenting seems to be the most effective. [15:43] Thank you so much for being on the show today. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com How to Find Adam Casting The Pod Million Pound Mission @millionpoundmission Instagram This Week's Guest Co-Host, Shannon Leahy, Owner of Shannon Leahy Events Shannon @shannonleahyevents Pinterest | Instagram | Facebook

In this episode, Andy is speaking with Adam Schaeuble. Adam is the host of the top-ranked podcast, The Million Pound Mission, where his goal is to inspire one million pounds of healthy results. However, Andy met Adam at PodFest 2019 in Orlando, where Adam gave a dynamic presentation on expanding your Instagram presence. Since wedding and event industry professionals use Instagram more than any other social media platform, it is fascinating to have Adam on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Have you ever thought your Instagram page could do more? Listen in as Adam gives tips that event professionals can use to increase their audience on Instagram. Asking questions, an Instagram story poll, use voice messaging, and how to use an Instagram live event quiz to grow your audience. He also explains how bringing in other people to your live event can get you exposure to not only your audience but also theirs! Adam discusses Instagram TV and how to use it to your advantage for your events, or by showing behind-the-scene videos. Learn how to use Instagram Live as a brainstorming tool and how having a unique hashtag can help put your page higher in the Instagram algorithm. If you want to use Instagram to grow your audience, this is the episode for you! Adam gives expert advice, tips, and tricks about Instagram, Instagram TV, and Instagram Live. He is willing to share with us what he has learned, so if you are ready to grow your audience and business sit back, relax, and learn. Show Highlights: [04:06] Welcome to the show, Adam! [05:45] Adam speaks about how he helped his home town lose 35,000lbs, and started his first podcast. [07:11] He wanted to grow his audience for his two podcasts, so he got involved with Instagram. [09:19] Adam believes that the wedding and event industry is doing very well with Instagram. He has some tricks that can help grow your audience. [10:40] He explains how the "have you ever" question works when asked in the form of an Instagram story poll. [18:47] Another strategy he uses for audience growth is an Instagram live event quiz. [23:58] He speaks about using a split-screen on Instagram Live so you can bring in anyone you want to talk too. [26:02] Use this technique as a brainstorming session with multiple people so that your audience can follow. [29:04] Another angle is that you can do a live question and answer session and leverage the algorithm. [33:32] Adam discusses Instagram TV and how it can work for you and what to look out for. [38:04] What is the difference between using hashtags with a bunch of followers versus using hashtags with a smaller volume? [40:54] If you have over 10,000 followers, you can use a swipe up, but if you have less, he has some workarounds. [42:21] Adam, what do you have available to help people learn about using Instagram? [43:33] Thank you, Adam, for all the information you shared today. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com How to Find Adam Casting The Pod Million Pound Mission @millionpoundmission Instagram Mentioned Edgar Zamora on The Wedding Biz

The Next Level welcomes back Carrie Goldberg. Carrie is the Travel and Wedding Director at Harpers Bazaar. She oversees all things, weddings, and travel for Bazaar.com. Carrie is also responsible for content strategy and visuals for Bazaar's digital travel and wedding verticals, and editor of Bazaar's new program called Bazaar Brides. Micaela is a celebrity stylist based out of New York City and Los Angeles and is the best selling author of the book, How to Accessorize: A Perfect Finish to Every Outfit. Micaela was named one of the most influential stylists by the Hollywood Reporter and has styled Constance Wu, Lupita Nyong'o, Jennifer Hudson, Hilary Swank, Blake Lively, and many more. She recently styled Amanda Hearst for one of the most talked-about weddings of 2019. Carrie discusses Micaela's idea to have a backup dress and an emergency kit at events, the fact taht what can go wrong will go wrong, and so you always need to be prepared. Also, how important it is to manager your client's expectations, and being the one to tell your team what should be worn at events so that you look professional and represent your brand well for future clients. Andy and Carrie touch on a few of the best parts of the interview as they speak about Micaela, but there is so much more to hear. If you haven't already listened to The Wedding Biz for Micaela's conversation with Andy, you need to, and if you have, you won't want to miss them taking it to The Next Level. Show Highlights: [01:24] Welcome back to the show, Carrie! [02:34] Carrie talks about how similar a red carpet moment is to a wedding aisle moment. [03:53] They discuss Micaela's work on Amanda Hearst's wedding and all the details she made perfect. [05:58] Carrie is of the school that all of the accessories need to be chosen while the dress is in the room. [07:01] What can go wrong will go wrong. A fashion emergency will most likely happen, so a stylist needs to be prepared. [08:21] Carrie says you must manage your client's expectations from the beginning. [10:30] Planners should always look the part, be professional, dress appropriately; you are in front of possible clients. [11:52] How do you feel about planners and their team wearing black at events? [14:09] They talk about whether planners should wear heels or flats for the events. [15:05] Thank you so much, Carrie, for being on the show!! [15:54] Andy and Carrie will be at the upcoming Engage, at Nizuc, in the media lounge, so stop by and say hi! [16:07] Carrie gives a short preview of the topic she will discuss at Engage. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com How to Find Micaela Micaela Erlanger @micaelaerlanger Twitter @micaela Instagram How to Accessorize: A Perfect Finish to Every Outfit by Micaela Erlanger This Week's Guest Co-Host, Carrie Goldberg, Travel and Wedding Director at Harpers Bazaar Carrie on Instagram: @harpersbazaarus or @carrielauren Email Carrie: carrielgoldberg.com Harpers Bazaar Harpers Bazaar Bride Membership Mentioned David Monn Part 1 on The Wedding Biz David Monn Part 2 on The Wedding Biz Lynn Easton Part 1 on The Wedding Biz Lynn Easton Part 2 on The Wedding Biz

Andy is speaking with Micaela Erlanger on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Micaela is a celebrity stylist based out of New York City and Los Angeles and was named one of the most influential stylists by the Hollywood Reporter and has sustained that title for five years. Micaela has been honored with the Style Influencer Award by the Accessories Council, and she is also the Marie Claire Image Maker Award winner. She has styled numerous celebrities like Constance Wu, Lupita Nyong'o, and Jennifer Hudson to name a few, and she recently styled Amanda Hearst for one of the most talked-about weddings of 2019. She is also the best selling author of the book, How to Accessorize: A Perfect Finish to Every Outfit. Micaela tells us about growing up and her passion for putting together outfits to wear to school, dressing up her baby sister, and styling girls for prom. She went to college for pre-med before she decided that it wasn't for her and changed her major to design and management. She intended to be a fashion editor and interned every summer at different publications to get exposure to the industry. She discusses her mentor Annabel Tollman, and how she taught her all there was to know about the business from the bottom up. Micaela speaks about styling Amanda Hearst for her wedding and how she was the first bride for the new bridal styling and consulting company she launched. Listen, as Micaela tells us what her process is when talking with a client, that you are an extension of your brand, so make sure you always dress the part and her advice to new stylists in the industry. There are so many fantastic details in this exciting episode that you don't want to miss, so plugin and enjoy! Show Highlights: [04:36] Welcome to the show, Micaela! [05:02] Micaela says if you exude confidence and you feel great, that shines through. [05:36] She talks to us about growing up and her love of dress-up and putting together outfits. [07:25] Micaela went to school for pre-med but changed her major to design and management intending to be a fashion editor. [09:30] She was introduced to one of the top stylists of the time, got to work with her, and learned the ins and outs of the business side of fashion. [12:23] Style can be transformative, and there is power in what we choose to wear. [15:01] One dress can change everything. She learned that from her first client. [16:18] Her approach when working with her clients is holistic and 360. [19:01] Micaela says you never want to be in the wrong dress for the wrong occasion. [19:43] She tells us waht she went through when she styled Amanda Hearst for her wedding. [23:15] Micaela describes the wedding day and how amazing it was. [25:12] There is no formula or recipe for a wedding or a wedding event; it's all highly personalized. [27:00] Micaela discusses her wedding plans and says that she is her worst client. [30:24] What advice do you have for planners who are working with a bridal couple that can't afford a stylist? [32:18] Micaela gives examples of things that have gone wrong that she has had to deal with at the last minute. [34:01] She says stylists and planners are essentially the hired help. It's always about the client. [35:01] You are an extension of your brand, so you should reflect the part. [36:05] At conferences, you need to bring your A-game and represent what your brand is to others. [38:37] Can you arrange your outfit around an accessory? [40:38] How do you organize the outfit around a tattoo? Have you ever had to cover one? [42:06] Micaela discusses the launch of her new bridal styling and consulting company. [44:30] Her recommendation to stylists. [45:23] Are there any hot fashion tips that you would give right now? [45:55] Thank you so much for being on the show, Micaela! LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com How to Find Micaela Micaela Erlanger @micaelaerlanger Twitter @micaela Instagram How to Accessorize: A Perfect Finish to Every Outfit by Micaela Erlanger Mentioned Annabel Tollman Micaela's Mentor David Monn Part 1 on The Wedding Biz David Monn Part 2 on The Wedding Biz

The Next Level welcomes back Sean Low. Sean's company, The Business of Being Creative, focuses on providing practical advice to those in the business of being creative. His client list includes the whos who of the wedding industry and design community. Robert is the owner of Washington Talent, the iconic entertainment company out of the Washington, DC area. Robert is passionate about what he does and is in it to bring joy not only to his clients but also to his industry partners. Andy and Sean discuss how Robert expanded his company by adding services designed to make Washington Talent a place where you get everything you need for an event. They talk about his ability to be flexible and professional with the planners, which makes the events less stressful for them. Did you hear that Robert and Andy are partnering up on Kushner Entertainment? Listen as Sean talks about all the positive things that are in store for these powerhouses of the music and events industry as they combine their forces and form a mega team. Robert is bringing his business acumen to add structure to Kushner Entertainment, and that will leave Andy to focus on what he loves, which is being creative. This is one of those conversations that will keep you spellbound. Every time you think you've heard all they have to say, they say something better. Don't miss the opportunity to learn some news about the event industry that not a lot of people know yet, don't you want to be able to say "have you heard?" Show Highlights: [01:32] Welcome back to the show, Sean! [02:55] Sean talks about how Robert grew his business by adding more services. [04:22] Expanding out of downturns in your company can bring you through tough times. [06:32] He speaks about Robert's ability to be flexible and professional and know where the pain points are for planners at events. [11:46] Sean discusses partnerships and why Robert is coming on board with Andy to add more business structure to Kushner Entertainment. [14:01] Andy is glad to have Robert take over the business side so that he can concentrate on the creative side. [17:21] Sean talks about a purification that will allow them to be more focused on bringing what they both know how to do so well together to bring the company to a different level. [19:50] When you put circles together, and they overlap compellingly, then the partnership will be beneficial to everyone. [22:13] Andy thanks Sean for all of his help with this business venture. [24:08] Sean, thank you so much for being on the show again! The Next Level welcomes back Sean Low. Sean's company, The Business of Being Creative, focuses on providing practical advice to those in the business of being creative. His client list includes the whos who of the wedding industry and design community. Robert is the owner of Washington Talent, the iconic entertainment company out of the Washington, DC area. Robert is passionate about what he does and is in it to bring joy not only to his clients but also to his industry partners. Andy and Sean discuss how Robert expanded his company by adding services designed to make Washington Talent a place where you get everything you need for an event. They talk about his ability to be flexible and professional with the planners, which makes the events less stressful for them. Did you hear that Robert and Andy are partnering up on Kushner Entertainment? Listen as Sean talks about all the positive things that are in store for these powerhouses of the music and events industry as they combine their forces and form a mega team. Robert is bringing his business acumen to add structure to Kushner Entertainment, and that will leave Andy to focus on what he loves, which is being creative. This is one of those conversations that will keep you spellbound. Every time you think you've heard all they have to say, they say something better. Don't miss the opportunity to learn some news about the event industry that not a lot of people know yet, don't you want to be able to say "have you heard?" Show Highlights: [01:32] Welcome back to the show, Sean! [02:55] Sean talks about how Robert grew his business by adding more services. [04:22] Expanding out of downturns in your company can bring you through tough times. [06:32] He speaks about Robert's ability to be flexible and professional and know where the pain points are for planners at events. [11:46] Sean discusses partnerships and why Robert is coming on board with Andy to add more business structure to Kushner Entertainment. [14:01] Andy is glad to have Robert take over the business side so that he can concentrate on the creative side. [17:21] Sean talks about a purification that will allow them to be more focused on bringing what they both know how to do so well together to bring the company to a different level. [19:50] When you put circles together, and they overlap compellingly, then the partnership will be beneficial to everyone. [22:13] Andy thanks Sean for all of his help with this busin

In this episode of The Wedding Biz, Andy is speaking with Robert Sherman. Robert is the owner of Washington Talent, the iconic entertainment company out of the Washington, DC area. He and his partner purchased the company over twenty years ago and have transformed it, taking it to a whole other level. Robert is passionate about what he does and is in it to bring joy not only to his clients but also to his industry partners. Robert graduated from college with an accounting degree but later decided he wanted to go to law school, during that time he also played drums with his band Onyx. The group was doing well so they hired Washington Talent to book gigs for them. He later worked with them as their in-house counsel. At a time when DJs were all the rage, their band was creating moments for clients and interacting with both kids and adults at events. Robert began building new bands in the '90s and, over the years, became good friends with the owners. When they decided to sell, he bought the company and now they are more prominent than they have ever been. Making people happy, one event at a time is their motto, and Robert wholeheartedly believes it. He says that's what it's all about, it's all about the why. You have to make everyone happy to be successful in the event industry, internally and externally. Understanding event planners and knowing that your job is just one small part of their large production is why he has the reputation of being so easy to work with. Listen in as Robert and Andy also talk about forming partnerships and how it took them over a year to commit to becoming partners with Andy's iconic music and entertainment company, Kushner Entertainment. Trust and synergy are essential when you are thinking about taking on a business partner, and the influx of new ideas can get you re-energized. You must reinvent or die in the event industry, and that is what they have both done. You won't want to miss this exciting conversation about bands, partnership, and happiness. When you listen to Robert talk, you can feel how much he loves what he does and how dedicated he is to his music. Custom-designing music for every event is paramount for him and his company, and he gives us a little insight into how he makes it all come together. Show Highlights: [03:06] Robert, thank you for being on the show! [03:55] He tells us when he decided music was for him. [06:04] He went to college and majored in accounting, which he says was the best education he could have gotten. [07:37] While playing in his band Onyx, he went to law school, started to practice law, and began forming and managing bands. [08:53] Robert hired Washington Talent Agency to get jobs for them. [10:17] What made Onyx so successful particularly in the '80s? [11:06] Robert talks about creating moments at events. [12:34] Washington Talent hired him as their in-house counsel, but he was also building new bands. [13:34] In the DC area at that time, all bands were partnerships, but that template didn't work. Robert's was different. [15:06] In 1996, Robert managed six bands with the help of one assistant. [15:30] Washington Talent's owner was a good friend of his, so when a partner retired, they asked Robert if he wanted to buy it. [16:32] When he took over, he had no experience with running a business, and was very nervous. [16:59] What did you bring to the company that took it to a whole new level? [18:16] They have made it a one-stop, get it all done business for events. [18:35] Their motto is "creating happiness one event at a time." [20:58] How do you get planners in your corner? You have a reputation as a person that is easy to get along with, how did you inspire that? [23:14] Robert says that everything we do is about the why. [25:49] He chats about what he learned from a company in Las Vegas. [27:19] What is your process like, as a company owner, with your clients? [30:43] How do you feel about DJ's vs. Bands? Is the responsibility different? [34:57] Andy and Robert discuss their new partnership and how it came to be. [40:04] Robert speaks about the collaboration and how it took over a year for them to commit. They took each other out of their comfort zones and re-energized themselves. [42:54] He talks about getting tired of what he was doing and looking for the next thing. [45:06] Robert's company is bringing a powerful infrastructure to Andy's business that he didn't quite have before. [46:01] He wants to expand his company now into other areas, and bring happiness to more people; he also wants to improve what he already has. [47:31] Robert defines business success as fully understanding his client's needs and making everyone happy. [48:19] Personally, Robert wants to feel good about what he does, and to him, that's a personal success. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlat

Jennifer Stein, welcome back to The Next Level! Jennifer is the Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Destination I Do Magazine, which is found at newsstands in all fifty states and twelve counties. She also publishes a daily blog, consults, and custom publishes. Joe Goldblatt is a true pioneer of the event industry; he owned The Wonder Company for over 20 years before selling it. He has written, edited, or co-authored 38 books, including the first textbook in the event industry. Joe has taught over 10,000 students in his teaching career and founded ISES, now known as ILEA. He also created the CSEP program and started event management studies at universities. Have you examined your expenses lately? Listen in as Andy and Jennifer talk about Joe's insight on staying lean, keeping costs down even when your business is flourishing. You don't want to miss this strategy session, so schedule some alone time for you, relax and enjoy! Show Highlights: [01:44] Jennifer, welcome back to the show! [03:08] Jennifer speaks about her awe of Joe and his accomplishments. [04:37] She agrees that we need to not only work in your businesses but also to make time to work on our businesses. [07:55] Getting away by yourself without distractions is the best way to reflect and rejuvenate. [10:27] Andy talks about the book, The Artist's Way, and the suggestion that we take one day a week for an "artist's date." [16:32] Doing comprehensive market research to see if you have an audience for your new idea is a smart way to know if you might succeed. [18:57] Stay lean, keep your expenses low even when times are good so that you can survive when times are difficult. [23:07] Have you looked at your costs lately? Can you get lean? [25:02] It's not what life hands you; it's how you respond to what life gives you. [26:24] Jennifer says she was so impressed with Joe and how humble he is. [27:36] Thank you so much for being here, Jennifer! Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Joe Goldblatt Joe Goldblatt - Website Joe Goldblatt - Blog @joejgoldblatt Twitter @joejeffgoldblatt Instagram | Facebook This Week's Guest Co-Host, Jennifer Stein Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Destination I Do Magazine Destination I Do Magazine Destination I Do Blog Jennifer Stein on the Wedding Biz @destinationidomag Facebook @destinationido Instagram | Twitter Mentioned Preston Bailey Part 1 on The Wedding Biz Preston Bailey Part 2 on The Wedding Biz Tait Larson & Abby Larson Saving Style Me Pretty Tim Chi on The Wedding Biz Harmony Walton on The Wedding Biz

The Wedding Biz welcomes Joe Goldblatt to the show. Joe is a true pioneer and icon of the event industry; he owned The Wonder Company for over 20 years before selling it. He has written, edited, or co-authored 38 books, including the first textbook in the event industry. He founded ISES, the International Special Events Society that is now known as ILEA, the International Live Events Association, and created the CSEP Program, Certified Special Events Professional. And as a teacher, Joe taught over 10,000 students. Joe believes that we need to spend time working on our businesses as well as working in our businesses. And do you thoroughly research and evaluate your projects? Joe tells us that these two go hand in hand and are critical when planning exceptional events. He speaks to us about the organization he created and the reason he believes that events have a logical connection to fields like anthropology, theology, sociology, and technology. He also tells us how we can approach the fear of economic health. Joe has a profound knowledge of the event industry and business in general. Listen in as he tells us why he believes we are on the cusp of what he terms a Platinum Age, an era of great possibility with technology and a generation with big hearts and a conviction to learn. This episode is different from all others. It will leave you in awe of Joe and what he has accomplished and continues to accomplish. You don't want to miss what he has to say. Show Highlights: [03:03] Welcome to the show, Joe! [03:53] Joe tells a story about being a hippie at Woodstock in 1969. [05:54] When did you know you wanted to be in the event industry? [08:00] He speaks about a quote by George Bernard Shaw and what it means to him. [10:32] Joe talks about some of the 10,000 students he has taught over the years. [13:09] The needs of the audience must be perfectly aligned with the delivery of the event. [14:32] Joe feels like people spend too much time working in the business and not on the business. [15:42] He says everyone needs to take a step back every 2 to 3 years to get away alone, reflect, and get inspired. [18:52] Have you ever tested a hypothesis on your trusted group? [20:20] Research and evaluation are two of the most important things you can do when taking on new projects and planning an event. [23:36] Joe discusses the organization he started, ILEA - previously known as ISES - the research he did for it, and how they structured it. [27:37] In events, there is a logical and essential connection to more established fields of study like sociology, anthropology, theology, and technology. [30:18] How should we approach fear when it comes to our economic health? [32:43] Joe speaks about Naseem Talib and the book he wrote, The Joy Of Life, A Memoir. Have you heard the term "Black Swan Theory?" [34:56] Everyone should have a rainy day fund, and especially small businesses. [38:00] Joe believes that we are on the cusp of a platinum age because of the potential of technology. [38:38] Thank you on behalf of the industry for all you have done. [39:06] If you would like to purchase one of Joe's books with a personal inscription, please see the link below. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Joe Goldblatt Joe Goldblatt - Website Joe Goldblatt - Blog @joejgoldblatt Twitter @joejeffgoldblatt Instagram | Facebook The True Joy of Life, A Memoir by Joe Goldblatt - Paperback or E-book Mentioned Rita Bloom on The Wedding Biz Angelo Bonitez The Black Swan: The Impact of The Highly Probable by Nassim Talib

The Next Level welcomes Kiana Underwood! Kiana is the founder of Tulipina, an internationally renowned floral design studio that specializes in creating incredible experiences for luxury weddings and events. She is the author of the book, Color Me Floral, which covers the secrets of designing showstopping monochromatic arrangements for each season. Her work can be seen in numerous publications and she has sold out workshops all over the world. Rachel is a wonderful planner and designer from The Lake Como Wedding Planner based in Como, Italy. She not only works with clients directly but also has the pleasure of, as she says, morphing into the local team for many foreign companies such as planners in the states like Lisa Vorce on Chrissy Tegan and John Legend's wedding and many others. Kiana and Rachel share many of the same views about making quick decisions before you can talk yourself out of them, having a clean slate when working with a client so that the design is unique, and the need to see the client's reactions to colors and places. Contrasting multi-day events so that each day is different and creating an experience from the moment you meet the prospective client. Andy and Kiana dive into a few of the noteworthy points of his interview with Rachel. Both Rachel and Kiana are strong women who have carved out a place in the event industry to excel in their respective careers. Listen in and discover what it takes to bring your visions to life and how to have the best people around you to make it happen. You won't want to miss this conversation if you're going to take your business to the next level. Show Highlights: [01:01] Kiana, welcome to the show! [02:58] They discuss Rachel's ability to leap and do things very quickly and take risks. [03:39] It's better to act soon instead of overthinking and not doing anything because of fear. [05:16] Kiana agrees with Rachel about wanting to start from a clean slate, no client pictures of weddings they've seen elsewhere. [06:41] They like to see the client's reactions to colors and style. [07:44] Rachel wants to create contrasting events, in a multi-day event, and Kiana agrees because otherwise, the event can get boring. [09:11] Experiences for clients start with planning their visit beginning from when they arrive at the airport. [10:34] Each event is an opportunity to create and use photos taken to enhance your portfolio. [12:05] Purposely getting different photographers for each venue so that the pictures are diverse and seen with a different eye. [13:36] Kiana brings her photographers to events so that they will focus on her floral designs. [16:18] Having people on your team who know different languages is an advantage when doing destination weddings. [17:05] Kiana says that Rachel is a strong woman who is easy-going and fun. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Rachel Birthistle Rachel@lakecomoweddings Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest Links The Lake Como Wedding Planner This Week's Guest Co-Host, Kiana Underwood founder of Tulipina Kiana Underwood on The Wedding Biz Tulipina Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

Andy welcomes Rachel Birthistle to The Wedding Biz. Rachel is the Owner and CEO of The Lake Como Wedding Planner based in Como, Italy. In addition to her own events, she has worked with people like Lisa Vorce on Chrissy Tegan and John Legends wedding and many others. She says she is predominately a wedding planner in a destination rather than a destination wedding planner. Rachel's father was in the fashion industry, and from a young age, she worked in his factory doing tasks like snipping thread and packing items. She found the place fascinating and knew that being in the fashion industry was where she wanted to be. She started making her own clothes in school even though her friends thought her fashion style was a little out there! Rachel discusses going to design college, finding a job with a large retailer in London, traveling all over the world, and her decision to stay home. She speaks about going back to college for sports therapy and starting a clinic in her home. Her life took twists and turns but eventually led her to a position with a wedding planner and, ultimately, her decision to start her own extremely successful business. Rachel strives to make each client's wedding an event starting when they get off the plane for their first meeting with her. With an itinerary of possible venues in hand, she begins to analyze the client's style, how they interact with each other, and begins the design process in her head. Creating a sequence of contrasting events for her clients is what she loves most. What is your dream? If it's to start your own business, what are you waiting for? You will never know if you can do it until you take a leap of faith and try. Rachel is someone who did just that; she found areas that were lacking in the wedding planning industry in Lake Como, Italy, and set out to change it. This is a learning experience for anyone with a dream, so sit back and listen to this very insightful episode. Show Highlights: [03:16] Welcome to the show, Rachel! [03:34] She has a view of Lake Como from her office and says it's hard to beat. [04:22] Rachel discusses her childhood and how she knew she was going to be in the fashion industry as a small child. [05:09] She didn't know what part of the industry, but the design side fascinated her. [05:44] Did you have a strong sense of what your style was? [06:05] Rachel started making her clothes because she didn't have a lot of pocket money. [07:03] She went to school for design in London but didn't finish because she left to have her daughter. [08:37] She says if you are positive when looking for opportunities, you can be successful, but don't be afraid to leap. [09:29] She started working for a retailer in London who focused on menswear and got to travel a lot. [10:41] Rachel explains the twists and turns she took from fashion into planning. [12:32] She got introduced to the wedding industry from a friend who needed help and moved from there into her own company. [13:22] She discovered that the wedding industry was missing various things and made it her mission to fill in the holes. [15:08] What was available to rent for weddings lacked style, so she started buying items to use. [16:27] Rachel interprets what clients want and puts ideas together for them. [18:50] She gives us her process for meeting a client, finding the venue, and understanding their style. She then can start thinking about the design. [21:28] Lake Como is unique, and her goal is to have contrast within the flow of events. [24:09] From the time her clients arrive at the airport, she puts together an itinerary for showing them locations and giving them an experience. [26:23] She also does planning with other agencies that need a local planner to support them. [28:09] Rachel talks about working with Lisa Vorce doing Crissy Tegan and John Legend's wedding and the different people she has worked with. [30:44] Her reputation and weddings benefit the venues and get them exposure and business. [33:03] Having a mix of photographers through the various seasons allows her to have different types of photos for each wedding. [35:20] Rachel's daughter works in the business and helps curate their library of images. [38:18] She is learning to delegate and put the right people in the right positions so she doesn't have to be present every minute of each event. [41:17] She has a team that knows many different languages, which helps her deal with vendors/creative partners and clients. [42:19] Where do you want to be in five or ten years? [43:23] Rachel has also started a furniture rental business, which she is now allowing other companies to use. [44:50] Thank you so much, Rachel, for joining us today. [45:50] If you enjoyed this episode, please give us a review and share it. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.Kus

Andy has Julie Novack as his guest co-host today on The Next Level. Julie is the CEO and Co-Founder of PartySlate. PartySlate is a photo-rich website where leading event professionals share their work, build their brand, and drive leads. Le Reve Films is the brainchild of Lindsey and Cherish Conklin. This husband and wife team is known for their work on the Engage 19 Baha Mar Conference as well as their work with other discerning clients. To them, cinematography is building a relationship with clients and telling their stories in the most effective way possible. Andy and Julie discuss Lindsey and Cherish's unique way of following up with people they meet at networking events. Their ability to market themselves and their business with Instagram stories that are authentic and moving and the way they take these Instagram links and share them with creative partners. The trick to standing out with potential clients, when you know they have many options, is to send an introduction video with your proposal. Do you follow up with everyone you meet when networking? Julie chats about her policy of following up with four or five people whom she meets and building meaningful and lasting relationships with them. She believes it is better to concentrate on a few than to spread yourself so thin that you don't make truly meaningful connections. Le Reve Films has a very different approach to and making wedding films. Listen in as Andy and Julie dive into some of their favorite parts of the interview and see if you can pick up a nugget or two that you can use in your business. Show Highlights: [00:56] Hey Julie, welcome back to the show! [02:35] They chat about Le Reve Films focusing on the story of the couple. [03:25] Julie talks about how Lindsey and Cherish capture the authentic and real-life stories of their clients. [05:04] The way they follow up with the people they meet while networking is unique. [06:55] Julie focuses on creating four or five meaningful relationships she makes while at conferences and speaking engagements. [09:13] It's impossible to follow up with everyone you meet, don't spread yourself thin. [10:46] Instagram stories and sharing them with vendors can broaden your client base. [11:50] Cross-promoting with creative partners gives everyone they deserve. [13:20] Sending an introduction video with proposals is a great way to set yourself apart. [14:20] Julie, thank you for being on the show again! Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Lindsey and Cherish of Le Reve Films Le Reve Films @lerevefilms Instagram | Facebook | Vimeo This Week's Guest Co-Host, Julie Novack, CEO and Co-Founder of Party Slate Party Slate @julierothnovack Twitter | Instagram @julie.novack Facebook | Linkedin Julie Novack on The Wedding Biz Mentioned in this episode Andre Maier on The Wedding Biz Eddie Zaratsian on The Wedding Biz

Lindsey and Cherish Conklin, who make up the team of Le Reve Films, are Andy's guests on this episode of The Wedding Biz. This duo is known for their work on the Engage 19 Baha Mar summit and other discerning clients. Cinematography to them is building a relationship with clients and telling their stories through film. They are brilliant at capturing the emotion of events in the most engaging ways. Lindsey started taking multimedia classes in high school and shooting video wherever he could. He quickly found that if you used video in school projects, you were pretty much guaranteed a good grade. Cherish, on the other hand, took control of the family video camera at a young age. She says that if it weren't for her, they wouldn't have any home videos. They have been friends since they were three, but it took until the last few years of high school for Lindsey to get out of the friend zone with Cherish, and they have been together ever since. The leap from a steady job and guaranteed income to building their own business was terrifying, but the benefits outweighed the fear, and it paid off with the success of their company. Their goal is to keep Le Reve Films a small boutique company so they can concentrate on crafting fine art wedding films for every client. Capturing the true essence of a couples' wedding day requires that they know the real, raw, and profound truth on how the couple came together. Wow! The tips that these two give us in this conversation are mind-blowing. The way they market their business and themselves is truly next level. They have found ways to set themselves apart in an industry that is saturated, which is why they will be around for years to come. Listen to this episode with a drink in one hand and a pen in the other. This episode will teach and entertain, so be ready. Show Highlights: [02:59] Welcome to the show Lindsey and Cherish. [03:16] They chat about meeting each other when they were three and how they grew up together. [05:03] Cherish grew up taking videos of her family to capture moments. [05:26] Lindsey took multimedia classes in high school and learned that if you did a video for a school project, it was guaranteed to get a good grade. [06:11] Being able to tell stories is what drew Lindsey to making videos. [09:26] In his early 20's, Lindsey got into an E-Commerce company with his friend and helped grow the company. [10:33] What did you learn from your time with the E-Commerce company that you use today with Le Reve? [11:43] Cherish says that college wasn't a priority for her; she chats about handling the day-to-day operations of Le Reve. [13:34] Lindsey discusses editing a friend's wedding video when he was a teenager and the idea of filming weddings was born. [15:55] Leaping into the video business was terrifying, from a financial perspective, however, they had to go with where their hearts were. [17:30] Le Reve Films has been crafting fine art wedding films for over 13 years. [17:47] What do you mean by the phrase crafting fine art wedding films? [19:54] Building the emotional connection between film and music is difficult but very important. [21:53] For the Baha Mar Engage summit, what do you mean when you say you went outside of the box with the music? [23:01] It's their goal to know the couple they are filming, so they send out a special questionnaire before they meet. [24:39] What questions do you ask on the questionnaire to dig a little deeper beyond the surface? [28:10] Ninety-eight percent of their business is weddings, and they usually always film together. [28:59] Lindsey describes some favorite moments at weddings that touches him. [30:41] Cherish says her favorite part of the wedding day for her is the time with the bride before she walks down the aisle. [32:27] How do you stand out in this market and stay relevant? [34:05] Networking is different for them because there are two of them, and they have different personalities. Lindsey is outgoing and Cherish is a nurturer. [37:13] The way you follow up with people depends on the connection that was made. Cherish shares some of her experiences. [39:35] How are you utilizing social media in your business? Do you use an agency? [42:03] Lindsey brags on Cherish putting together one-minute Instagram teaser videos of the weddings and how they help all the vendors/creative partners cross-promote. [44:20] They share a brilliantly effective way to communicate their proposals. [46:35] How do you deal with the time you spend on weddings and traveling when you have two children? [49:17] Thank you, Lindsey, and Cherish for being on the show! [49:57] Look for the Next Level the show that does a deep dive into some of the great ideas we heard on this episode. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event profess

In this episode of The Next Level, Andy is with Jennifer Stein. Jennifer is the Co-Founder and Editor in Chief of Destination I Do Magazine. She publishes a daily blog and also consults, and custom publishes. Andy and Jennifer discuss Audrey's moxy in starting her business before learning the trade and how testing is a great way to make sure your business is viable. They also speak about Audrey's authenticity and vulnerability and that she isn't afraid to put it all out there because she wants potential clients to be able to connect with her in a real way. Have you ever had a meet up with clients when you are traveling? Listen to Andy and Jennifer talk about Audrey doing just that. She posts where she is going to be, so if a potential client or vendor wants to meet up with her in their area, they can get together. Listen in to this deep dive into some key points of Audrey's interview. Jennifer speaks about Audrey's ability to market herself by listening to what people want, how she connects with people by taking photographs of her life and posting them on her Instagram page and how networking when traveling can boost your business. If your business is struggling and you are having trouble getting new clients, you need to listen to this conversation. What these two discuss, you won't learn in books, so plugin and enjoy. Show Highlights: [00:57] Jennifer, welcome back to the show! [02:54] Andy and Jennifer discuss how Audrey started her business first and then learned the trade. [04:37] Testing ideas before starting your business, have you ever done that? [05:23] Jennifer discusses the trajectory of video and how Audrey tested the idea then had two months to learn how to do it. [07:02] They speak about Audrey'sAudrey's authenticity and vulnerability on her Instagram pictures. [09:12] Do you like being emotionally connected with people you follow? [11:41] Jennifer talks about Audrey being an active listener, which is what makes her a great marketer. [13:39] Audrey, when she photographs, is always bringing it back to the client, they are still the focal point. [15:45] They discuss the way that Audrey meets the needs of her clients by letting them know where she is going to be so she can meet up with them. [17:00] Jennifer, thank you for being on the show! Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Follow Audrey Neracoulis Audrey Neracoulis @audreyparisphoto Instagram Retreat information at Rendezvous with Audrey This Week's Guest Co-Host, Jennifer Stein, Co-Founder and Editor in Chief of Destination I Do Magazine Destination I Do Magazine Destination I Do Blog Jennifer Stein on the Wedding Biz @destinationidomag Facebook @destinationido Instagram | Twitter Mentioned in this episode Tim Chi on The Wedding Biz Tait Larson on The Wedding Biz

Audrey Neracoulis, Welcome to The Wedding Biz! Audrey is a film photographer based in Paris and is known for her unmistakable fashion house inspired aesthetic, and unique and sophisticated work. She also brilliantly utilizes social media, especially Instagram, in ways that will surprise you. Audrey has a master's degree in marketing and dreamt of being surrounded by, and working with, a wonderful team. When faced with the reality that a first job working for a corporation meant sitting alone in a cubicle, she decided it wasn't for her. She chose to pick up a camera, tell stories visually with pictures and become a photographer, even though she had never taken a picture before. Is the hardest part of your business attracting new clients? Listen, as Audrey describes what she did when she started out and what she does today to attract clients. She says you have to have a strong brand and make personal connections with your clients. Audrey is sharing her life with pictures on Instagram believing that letting potential clients see her story through photographs will give them the best idea of the reality of her work. Audrey's vision for a wedding is to blend fashion photography and cinematic documentary to make the perfect photographs. Her passion is capturing the emotional and physical connections of the bride and groom so that the images evoke meaningful memories. For added dimension, she likes to build in a sense of sensuality learned from her experience with shooting boudoir. If you are a photographer or want to be, pay attention as Audrey points out the difference between using film, going digital, and the benefits of both. Listen as she tells us how to create and connect with clients when traveling, about her retreats in Paris, and all the ways she teaches about photography. This is a compelling episode with so much great information you will definitely need to take notes, so sit back and enjoy. Show Highlights: [02:54] Audrey, it is so exciting to have you on the show! [03:38] Andy and Audrey chat about speaking English in France. [04:37] She was married to a man from Kentucky but lived in New York, where she went to school, got her master's degree, and her first job. [06:53] Audrey started her career in photography with no training because she wanted to tell stories with pictures. [08:23] She made a business decision to blog before she bought her first camera to see if she could attract clients. [10:17] Audrey chats about learning from YouTube and taking pictures of friends. [11:33] Attracting clients is about telling a story, the wedding industry is very personal, and you need a strong brand. [12:37] She shares her life through photos on Instagram so that clients can get a better sense of who she is. [15:44] Audrey takes a video of each event to show everything that happens in real life, the good and the bad. [18:10] She takes a photo at each event that she posts to Instagram so that potential clients can see in real-time what she does. [19:44] Audrey gets recommendations from vendors for events. [20:39] She explains her process for her preparing because she often doesn't meet the client until the wedding. [22:49] Audrey speaks about her vision for each wedding and how she creates beautiful portraits by blending fashion and cinematography. [24:37] How do you capture the emotional and physical connection between the couple? [27:42] Doing boudoir and couples' photos allows her to add a sense of sensuality to the images. [29:12] Audrey shoots with film instead of digital, which is more challenging because every shot counts. [32:08] Why do you use film? What are the benefits of each? [33:24] She networks wherever she is, even on vacation, she posts where she is going and creates meetups. [36:31] Audrey has retreats in Paris where she shows people what she shoots, provides hair and makeup classes, and powerpoint presentations on photography. [39:20] How do you find out what people want? Direct messages or...? [41:28] Audrey says her social media platform of choice is Instagram. [44:42] Her retreats are tours of the area, round tables with people sharing their ideas, cooking classes, and more. All along the way, she photographs, which people learn about. [45:42] What kind of equipment do you use? [47:57] Audrey, thank you for being on the show! LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Audrey Neracoulis Audrey Neracoulis @audreyparisphoto Instagram Retreat information at Rendezvous with Audrey Mentioned on the Show Jose Villa on The Wedding Biz Andre Maier on The Wedding Biz

Andy welcomes Sean Low to this episode of The Next Level! Sean is the Founder and President of The Business of Being Creative LLC, which focuses on providing practical advice to those in the business of being creative. His client list includes the elite of the wedding industry and the design community. Vanessa is the Owner and Creative Director of Two Paper Dolls, a pioneering custom design house that feeds the desire for customization across all aspects of the wedding industry. TPD Design House services clients in the art of branding, website and logo development, and invitation design around the world. Andy and Sean discuss Vanessa's conviction to her start her own company, about being a risk-taker and her need to succeed even though there were bumps along the way. Sean talks about her being a culture specialist, and she understands that it's not about telling the story to everyone. It's about telling the story to those who care, knowing that the culture drives the story, not the other way around. Listen in as they share their outlooks on the way Vanessa runs her company, how she includes everyone in the decision making and the meetings to bring new ideas to the team. She believes that if you let your employees feel invested, they work that much harder because they feel as if it is their company. If you are looking to discover the secrets to Vanessa's success, look no further. Andy and Sean suss out the real reasons behind her success and lay it out for all to see. This is the episode you will kick yourself for missing, so don't. Show Highlights: [01:04] Sean, welcome back to the show! [01:45] Andy gives Sean a little background on Vanessa's interview. [02:20] They discuss how Vanessa had the conviction that she could take the leap to her own business and be ok. [04:29] Sean talks about Vanessa's willingness to fail if that is what helps get her to where she wanted to be in the end. [06:54] Sean speaks about Vanessa being a culture specialist. [09:29] They chat about how not every client is the right client, and sometimes you have to say no. [11:17] Culture drives the story, not the other way around. [13:41] Getting people on your team invested in your company, you are only as strong as the weakest voice in your company. [15:01] You have to be present to where things are, and it's not easy. Focus on one thing at a time. [16:09] Sean says that Vanessa feels nourished by the work. [16:53] Thank you for being the show again, Sean! Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Follow Vanessa Kreckel Two Paper Dolls/TPD Design House Vanessa@tbddesignhouse Instagram | Pinterest Vanessa@twopaperdolls Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest This Week's Guest Co-Host, Sean Low, Founder and President of The Business of Being Creative LLC. Sean Low on the Wedding Biz The Business of Being Creative LLC Email Sean: [email protected] Sean:@seanlow Twitter | Instagram Mentioned in this episode Bill Baker Tim Chi on The Wedding Biz Tait Larson on The Wedding Biz Meryl Snow Part 1 on The Wedding Biz Meryle Snow Part 2 on The Wedding Biz Cindy Novotny Part 1 on The Wedding Biz Cindy Novotny Part 2 on The Wedding Biz Simon Bailey on The Wedding Biz

The Wedding Biz is excited to have Vanessa Kreckel on the show. Vanessa is the Owner and Creative Director of Two Paper Dolls, a pioneering custom design house that foreshadowed the desire for customization across all aspects of the wedding industry. She has been named in design publications including PRINT, and Communications Arts as well as BRIDES Magazine and Martha Stewart Weddings. TPD Design House services clients in the art of branding, website design and development, and invitation design around the world. Vanessa has always loved being creative, which is why she studied art at Moore College of Art and Design and learned how to be a graphic artist. She started her company with one employee and used printing presses, and somehow found a niche with her customized stationery and invitations. Who are your ideal clients? What is the voice of your company? These are some of the questions Vanessa asks when helping someone develop their brand. Branding is an essential ingredient in making your business successful, and she has been assisting people in figuring it out for almost 20 years. Listen to her tips and tricks as you follow along on the podcast. Vanessa talks about knowing and branding the look and feel of your event when thinking about invitations. She reminds us that it's not just invitations, there are save the dates, invitation design, and day of cards. You need to consider the overall experience and how the design thread pulls it all together when deciding this critical part of your event. This is one of those conversations that will change the way you choose invitations, your brand, and what you put on social media. Vanessa is a first-rate businesswoman with insight into a different side of the event industry. One that you might not realize has such a significant impact on the event experience. You won't want to miss what she has to say, so sit back, plugin and enjoy. Show Highlights: [02:43] Welcome to the show, Vanessa! [03:03] They chat about the work Vanessa has done with Engage. [03:43] Vanessa explains how Two Paper Dolls got started. [05:09] She studied art at Moore College of Art and Design, which is where she began in graphic design. [06:29] She took a risk when she transitioned from full-time to starting her own company. [07:48] She speaks about getting started with one employee and used printing presses that she had no idea how to use. [10:50] branding is one of the most essential parts of any business, it's how you set yourself apart from the competition. [13:56] Vanessa tells us the first steps to take when developing your brand and what questions to ask. [16:23] They have a tool kit for clients to use as they are developing a standard consistent message for their company. [18:34] How do you create the story aspect of what you do? [20:01] Vanessa describes the brand they created for the entire Engage London event. [22:50] Website design changes rapidly. Make sure it is user-friendly and can be viewed well on mobile devices and make sure they are ADA Compliant. [26:28] Social media is more important than ever. Does your social media reflect what you are doing with your website? [28:11] Vanessa discusses the strategies for posting on social media. [29:56] People should consider the overall look and feel of an event when thinking about invitations. [32:13] Invitations can be traditional, or it can tell the story of the couple or company. [33:58] How are you managing the business aspect of your company? What have you learned? [36:21] She chats about brainstorming and discussing ideas in small groups, it is all collaborative. [39:26] Vanessa, what does success mean to you? [40:57] Andy talks about a branding video that Vanessa produced for Kushner Entertainment. [43:51] Please subscribe and follow us on Facebook. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Vanessa Kreckel Two Paper Dolls/TPD Design House Vanessa@tbddesignhouse Instagram | Pinterest Vanessa@twopaperdolls Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest Branding video produced by Vanessa found at https://www.kushnerentertainment.com/entertainment-design. Filmed and directed by Matt Buckman, I Do Films.

The Next Level welcomes Laurie Arons to the show! Laurie has been mentioned in numerous magazine publications and was listed in Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, and Martha Stewart Weddings as one of the top planners worldwide. Her clients include trendsetters like Sofia Coppola, Vanessa Getty, and Christy Turlington, to name a few. Laurie has also created and runs a very successful Wedding Planner Masterclass in March of each year and just announced that for March 2020, it will be at the stunning Brush Creek Ranch in Wyoming. Greg Finck is a brilliant photographer based in Paris. Greg was an executive for ten years with Proctor and Gamble and, at first, was doing wedding photography on the side as a hobby. Five years ago, he started shooting weddings full-time and is already handling major destination weddings and working in the fashion industry. He learned early on how to utilize social media as a marketing tool effectively and has over 70 thousand Instagram followers. Greg also gives a workshop in the spring and is speaking on Authentic Branding at Engage in London in a couple of weeks. Andy and Laurie bring into focus how seriously Greg takes his career, how hard he works, and how easy he is to work with. They talk about his use of social media to market his brand, why being authentic is so important, and how it can make or break your business. They both agree that Greg's humility is one of his greatest assets; it is something that clients and vendors alike can feel, and it can only enhance what you do. Listen in as Andy and Laurie take a deep dive into some of the best parts of Greg's interview. Laurie and Greg run their businesses in very similar manners, and they are both at the top of their careers. If your company has stopped its upward climb and you are looking for some tips to restart the momentum, this episode drills down into some points that might make your struggle a little easier. Show Highlights: [01:07] Laurie, welcome to the show! [02:08] for Laurie's next Wedding Planners Masterclass in March 2020. [02:33] In this episode, Laurie and Andy are discussing Greg Finck. [03:56] Does your job feed your heart? [04:16] Laurie was a product manager at a biotech firm. [04:48] Listen as Laurie tells us what advice she gives people who want to break into the industry or start their own company. [06:54] They discuss the speed at which both Greg and Laurie rose to the top in the industry. [09:25] Laurie speaks about Greg's use of social media, how seriously he takes what he does and how hard he works. [11:57] Being easy to work with and professional is so crucial in any industry. [13:23] They chat about being authentic with clients and managing their expectations. [15:01] Greg's outlook on branding has both Andy and Laurie agreeing. [16:03] Laurie discusses how important it is to take any opportunity to show your professionalism to clients and vendors. [17:42] Humility is something that they all feel is so important. You are only as good as your last event. [19:23] Being humble can open your mind to great things. [20:44] Thank you, Laurie, for being on the show! Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Follow Greg Finck Greg on Vimeo Greg's Website Greg's Workshop Greg@gregfinck on Instagram Greg@gregfinckphotographie on Facebook This Week's Guest Co-Host, Laurie Arons Special Events Laurie on the Wedding Biz Laurie's email Laurie on Vimeo Laurie@lauriearons Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Andy is excited to be speaking with Greg Finck on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Greg is a brilliant photographer based in Paris. He studied business in France then came to the U.S to get his MBA. Greg was a marketing executive for ten years with Proctor and Gamble and at first, was doing wedding photography on the side as a hobby. Greg is now a major photographer even though he's technically only been doing it full-time for five years. Besides shooting significant weddings, he is doing fantastic work in the fashion world and has mastered marketing digitally in social media. He also gives master classes on photography and speaks at Engage. "Elegance is the only beauty that never fades," a quote on his website from Audrey Hepburn summarizes the approach that Greg has to photography. Black and white photos are what he started out doing, giving him the ability to really focus on what he wanted to shoot in order to hone his eye. Greg talks to us about many things; his life in marketing, the catalyst for moving into photography professionally, and how glad he was that he took that leap of faith. He speaks about the niche he found with destination wedding photography, mostly taking place in Paris and other parts of Europe, doing fashion photography during the slow wedding season, and why he uses medium format film. Listen in as Greg shares with us his secrets to rapid success, how to manage your client's expectations and the tools to choose the right photographer. He discusses his tricks for calming the nerves of a bride and tells us what equipment he uses to get such fantastic shots. The knowledge Greg has acquired in his relatively short time as a full-time professional photographer is immense. His business acumen is on point, and his humility is second to none. If you want to learn how to build your business in any industry, this is a conversation you shouldn't miss. Show Highlights: [02:57] Andy welcomes Greg to the show! [03:18] Greg says that timeless elegance is what he wants to bring to his photography. [04:43] Greg's childhood was spent in darkrooms developing film with his dad. [05:23] He shot mostly black and white, back at the beginning, which helped him hone h his eye for capturing images. [06:06] He feels like he has always been a portrait photographer. [07:18] When he was in college, getting his MBA, photography was just a hobby. His parents encouraged him to take the safe path. [08:20] He went to work with Proctor and Gamble, but was very grateful for what he learned. [08:53] Greg says the most significant thing he learned from working for such a large company is how to be humble. [10:14] Humility and hard work are fundamental values in this saturated market. [11:44] He discusses why he left a safe job at Proctor and Gamble to pursue his love of photography. [13:55] He went to a workshop held by Feather and Stone out of California, and it changed his perspective on being a professional photographer. [16:20] Were you financially prepared when you quit your job or did you take a leap of faith? [18:29] Why bring a photographer from the states to shoot your wedding in France when I am already here was Greg's marketing approach. [20:32] Greg speaks about branding and shooting with film, which set him apart in Europe because not a lot of people were doing it. [22:20] Listen as Greg tells us what it means to have a European touch. [24:01] They discuss medium format film, which is the highest possible quality film you can find at this time. [24:56] Greg speaks about the use of hashtags to get noticed with social media. [26:34] What percentage of your business is related to fashion and editorials? [28:09] The total expectations from clients are much higher today than in times past. [29:21] Greg gives us his process when working with a client. [30:51] Being direct with your clients is the key to managing expectations. [31:44] Exuding confidence is how he helps dissipate a bride's nerves and anxiety. [33:46] Greg chats about giving a master class and telling his students that they need to get out of their comfort zone. [36:00] What are the qualities of a great photographer? [37:07] Greg's presentation topic at the next Engage Luxury Wedding Summit. [39:09] If you want to learn directly from Greg, he gives workshops once a year in the spring. [39:53] You can buy prints or gift cards on his website. [40:23] His favorite equipment right now is a Contax 645 with an 80 mil lense. [41:27] Thank you, Greg, for being on our show, it has been a real pleasure. [42:01] Please tell your friends about our podcast and leave reviews if you like what you hear. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Greg Finck Greg on Vimeo Greg's Website Greg's Workshop Greg@gregfinck on Instagram Greg@gregfinckphotographie on Fa

Andy is speaking with Sean Low on this episode of The Next Level. Sean is the Founder and of The Business of Being Creative LLC, which focuses on providing practical advice to those in the business of being creative. His client list includes the elite of the wedding industry and the design community. David Monn is known for producing events like The Met's Costume Institute Gala, and the iconic 100th Anniversary of the Park Plaza Hotel in NYC, to name just a couple. His clients include many social leaders from around the world. David is also a contributing editor to Departures Magazine and has been featured in numerous luxury and lifestyle publications. This is a conversation that imparts much wisdom including his perspective on legacy, teaching your team to carry on without you, but maintaining the quality that your name invokes. Sean agrees with David's concept of having a business structure in place that will withstand his absence and hopefully be there for many years after he is gone. Know that your business is bigger than you are and have your exit strategy in place long before you need it. Listen and take heed to what they have to say. You can't get this knowledge just from books but rather from people who are living it. Show Highlights: [00:43] Welcome back to the show, Sean! [03:27] Andy and Sean discuss David's view on who attends not-for-profit events and why. You need to put the focus on the event itself, not the cause. [05:53] Never let an honoree speak at an event; they are not performers. [07:51] Will your business carry on without you? What business structure do you have in place to build and carry on your legacy? [10:15] Sean speaks about legacy in the event industry and how it can strengthen the industry. [14:15] Business owners need the humility to know that your business is more significant than you, have your exit strategy set up so that your company will flourish. [16:07] Being dispensable in your business allows you to make time for yourself. Train people along the way whom you trust to take over if and when you are not there. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Follow David Monn David on the Wedding Biz Part 1 David Monn David@david_monn Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest David@davidmonnllc Facebook | Youtube | Linkedin This Week's Guest Co-Host, Sean Low, Founder and President of The Business of Being Creative LLC. Sean Low on the Wedding Biz The Business of Being Creative LLC Email Sean: [email protected] Sean:@seanlow Twitter | Instagram

In this episode of the Wedding Biz, Andy brings back David Monn for part 2 of their conversation. David's clients include social leaders from around the world. He is known for events like The Met's Costume Institute Gala, and the 100th Anniversary of the Plaza Hotel, to name a few. He is also a contributing editor to Departures Magazine and has been featured in numerous luxury and lifestyle publications. Listen as David breaks down how he planned the Met's Gala, how he used the senses, time of year, and locations to make the event one of a kind. He discusses how having discipline and order at a function allows it to flow, and why the band or DJ should know how to read the energy of the group. David's wisdom knows no bounds. You can't help but learn from listening to him talk about corporate events being about messaging the brand and learning his perspective on how to most effectively work with fundraisers. He talks about the three main things he feels are given us in life and how thankful he is for them. The event industry is not something you get into because you need a job, you do it because you can't see yourself doing anything else. This is a fantastic conversation, with stellar stories and invaluable information. We have been waiting for this episode since July, when Part 1 was released, so get ready to be blown away yet again. Show Highlights: [03:03] Andy welcomes David back to continue their conversation. [03:55] David speaks about aligning the senses, the time of year, and the location when planning an event. [06:28] He stresses to clients, "Don't let your idea of something hold hostage the foundation of what is already there." [08:30] He tells us the formula he used to plan the Met's Costume Institute Gala in great detail. [13:40] David states that having order during an event is about discipline and making sure each phase is managed well. [17:35] Why is taking people from a dance floor back to a table, then from the table back to the dance floor challenging? [19:01] How important is it for the talent to be able to read the energy of the group? [21:18] David believes a bridal couple they should have a proper send-off as they did in bygone years. [23:48] He explains why his approach to fundraising galas, corporate events, and social events is different from anything else he does. [27:37] Listen as David gives examples of non-profit events he has planned and the programs he works with. [32:12] Corporate events are about messaging the brand. [34:32] He speaks about the business aspect of what he does and how he makes sure to be cognizant of the client's budget. [38:57] David explains that clients have a hard time telling you what their spend threshold is. [43:58] How do you set up your company to go on without you? Do you have the business structure set up to make that happen? [49:19] David says there are three things in life that God gives us: blessings, opportunity, and free will. [50:22] The event industry is not something you get into because you need a job; it must be your passion. [51:14] David's final thoughts on events, how many people an event gives work to, and how many mouths they feed. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com David Monn David on the Wedding Biz Part 1 David Monn David@david_monn Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest David@davidmonnllc Facebook | Youtube | Linkedin Mentioned during the interview: The Arts Connection Animal Medical Center The Mets Costume Institute Gala The Plaza Hotel Departures, a Luxury Magazine

The Next Level welcomes Sean Low, Founder, and President of The Business of Being Creative LLC, which focuses on providing practical advice to those in the business of being creative. He has worked with many prestigious clients in both the design community and the wedding and event industry. Michael is the founder of Cerbelli Creative, an event design and production company, and the creator of The Hot List, a list of the best ideas in the industry, and was inducted into the Event Industry Hall of Fame in 2019 by Bizbash. Andy and Sean discuss Michael's passion for the industry and his belief that the size of the event doesn't matter as long as it creates long-lasting memories for the clients. They deliberate on Michael's knack for challenging everyone around him to be an artist, and his need to inspire people to take risks. Sean examines Michael's philosophy of paying his people well, letting them grow, and the importance of recognizing them for a job well done. This is taking Andy's interview with Michael to the next level, diving in, and discussing some of the juiciest parts of the conversation...you will be glad you listened in! Show Highlights: [01:12] Welcome to the show Sean, it's great to have you back. [03:11] Andy and Sean discuss the passion Michael has for what he does. [04:08] They speak about how Michael feels that it doesn't matter what size the event is. It's the memories that need to last. [05:26] Michaels believes that entertainment is the pulse of the event. [07:01] Sean thinks that Michael is challenging everyone to be an artist, to inspire everyone to take well-calculated risks. [08:56] They like the idea that Michael has about keeping his team informed about the contracts and did they charge enough to get it right? [10:51] Michaels philosophy is to pay his people well and let them grow. Give them shares in the profit and recognize when they are performing above and beyond. [13:41] They speak about how important it is to give recognition for a job well done, not just monetarily but also verbally. [14:28] Sean loves Michael's need to serve others. [16:39] Check out Michael and Sean on their social media pages. [17:50] Sean describes The BBC Collective and who it's for. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Follow Michael Cerbelli Website: Cerbelli Creative Michael:@MCApproved Facebook | Twitter Michael:@MichaelCerbelli Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn This Week's Guest Co-Host, Sean Low, Founder and President of The Business of Being Creative LLC. Sean Low on the Wedding Biz The Business of Being Creative LLC Email Sean: [email protected] Sean:@seanlow Twitter | Instagram

The Wedding Biz welcomes Michael Cerbelli, a paragon in the events industry for over 42 years. He is the creator of The Hot List, a list of the best ideas in the industry, and was inducted into the Event Industry Hall of Fame by Bizbash in 2019. He has worked with several high profile clients and in some fantastic venues all over the world. Michael started at the tender young age of 13 as a DJ for parties in his neighborhood. He purchased turntables from Radio Shack and a crate full of records and proceeded to market himself as a DJ. He did this for several years until he met his first business partner and they built the biggest Mitzvah DC/MC/Dancers company in the nation. Listen as he shares his progression from DJ and MC into event management and creation. Michael prides himself on the level of preparation he and his team put into every event. No matter the size or cost of the event, his goal is to create lasting memories for his clients, and he credits his team for the success of his company. Finding and keeping the right talent has been the key to his longevity in the industry. This was a fantastic conversation full of excellent business advice and industry gems. Michaels reason for creating The Hot List alone speaks to his willingness to create a more collaborative environment in the events industry. This is definitely an episode you won't want to miss! Show Highlights: [01:42] The guest for this episode is Michael Cerbelli, the founder of Cerbelli Creative and The Hot List. [03:26 Learn about Michael's childhood and why he loves the spotlight. [05:06] Michael shares how he became a DJ after his dad passed away. [07:00] Hear about the collection of odd jobs he did throughout his adolescence that turned into events as a DJ and MC. [08:05] In 1984, Michael and his partner in Long Island took off in the events space. [10:01] The Wedding Singer was based on one of the companies Michael worked with. [11:38] Learn about how a legacy client opened his eyes to corporate clients. [12:30] In the early 2000's he decided to quit being an MC and get into entertainment production. [14:56] Michael says that events are about creating memories. [15:44] He believes that most people want intimate events with people they care about. [17:27] Learn Michael's start-to-finish process for creating weddings & events and why most of his clients are legacy clients. [20:17] Michael expands on what the "Cerbelli Flare" is and why it's not your experience that matters, it's the experience you're creating for the client. [24:47] How can the food segment be turned into entertainment? [27:19] Why engaging the talents of the entire team creates the best events. [31:16] Does Michael ever feel the pressure of creating high profile, high dollar events? [32:48] Preparation is the key to an unforgettable event. [36:54] How has technology impacted the industry and Michael's company and events? [40:37] Why is a solid business structure the key to longevity and success? [43:19] You can't do it all! You need to establish a good team and great partners. [44:47] How do you find the right people for your team? [47:22] Michael shares his impetus for creating and maintaining the Hot List over 19 years ago. [49:04] What kinds of people, products, and companies are on the Hot List? [53:29] Connect with Michael. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Michael Cerbelli Video: Cerbelli Creative on Vimeo Website: Cerbelli Creative Michael:@MCApproved Facebook | Twitter Michael:@MichaelCerbelli Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn Mentioned during the interview: Joe Goldblatt Special Events: Creating and Sustaining a New World for Celebration by Joe Goldblatt The Three Waiters Dancakes Elegant Affairs: Andrew Corielli Marcia Selden Catering: Jeffrey and Robin Colin Cowie's Episodes on the Wedding Biz - Part 1 and Part 2 David Monn on the Wedding Biz Marcy Blum on the Wedding Biz Toni Galante AllSeated PartySlate Lenny Talerico Cirque Mechanics: Chris Lasher

Today on The Next Level, Andy Kushner is speaking with Augusta Cole, Executive Director to Lynn Easton, of Easton Events, a world-renowned planner and designer. Augusta and Christina are lucky enough to work for individuals who allow them to truly have a voice and to feel a sense of ownership in their companies. Christina has worked with David Beahm Experiences for many years and they maintain their relationship by having respect and trust. David shows confidence in her abilities and Christina knows that he appreciates what she is doing and trusts that she will always do what is best for the company. They speak about the similarities between the way David Beahm and Lynn Easton lead their teams, the ritual of debriefing after events and how they allow everyone to give ideas on how to make the next one better. Augusta is in agreement with Christina on many things and needing a forward thinker leading the company is one of them. They feel that if you have someone who cares about what you think, where you want to be, and will help you get there, then you are in the best place you can be. This is a great and elucidating conversation so listen in and see if you can see yourself in this discussion. Show Highlights: [01:08] Welcome to the show Augusta, it's great to have you on the show. [01:38] Andy and Augusta talk about Christina's nickname "Teuccimama." [02:37] Augusta speaks about working with Lynn Easton and the similarities in Lynn and David's leadership styles. [03:54] She chats about the trust David Beahm puts in Christina that allows her to make decisions in his name. [06:38] They discuss debriefing, opportunities for greatness, and being solutions-driven. [07:35] What needs to be done to sustain your business? Do you have a forward thinker in your company? [08:49] The ability to talk about what comes next, what will happen next is what makes a beautiful relationship. [09:20] Allowing number 2's to grow will always foster a better relationship. [11:03] By supporting and encouraging side projects, you are allowing for your team to be much happier and more successful. [11:53] They talk about Christina being a "king-maker." [12:58] Christina always refers to David Beahm Experiences as her company. She has a sense of ownership that allows her to always strive for the best. [14:10] Christina allows every single person on her team to be their best. [16:08] Number 1's should still support what their number 2's are doing as everyone needs to feel appreciated and to have a voice. [16:43] Having a name on the door doesn't have to be the glass ceiling, there are always ways to keep progressing forward. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Follow Christina Matteucci: Christina on David Beahm's Website Christina's Talk on TedxBeaconStreet Christina on Instagram @TeucciMama Christina on LinkedIn David Beahm on Instagram @davidbeahm David Beahm on Facebook @davidbeahmdesign This Week's Guest Co-Host, Augusta Cole, Executive Director to Lynn Easton of Easton Events. Augusta @Easton Events Augusta on Linkedin@augustacole Augusta on Facebook@augustacole Augusta on Instagram@augustacole Augusta on Twitter@augustacole

Welcome to the Wedding Biz Christina Matteucci, the Executive Director at David Beahm Experiences. Christina is on the show to discuss how to be the best "number two" to your "number ones," and how your "number ones" can best support the "number twos." Andy and Christina take a deep dive into this topic as it is one that Christina has spoken about at several events, not the least of which is the Engage Summit. Christina is affectionately known as "Teuccimama" by her colleagues and friends in the events industry and has been in the industry for almost two decades. She has first-hand experience in creating a sustainable and functional infrastructure to support a growing creative talent. Her experience has made her a highly sought-after resource in the event industry and a captivating speaker on all things "Number Two." Christina has so many amazing nuggets of information to share about building a business around a creative talent and what that entails. Listen in as she reveals a bit about her past, her love for the performing arts, and how she managed to combine her childhood dream with a love for events to create an amazing career. Christina is a force in the industry and shares what it took for her to move! Show Highlights: [01:53] Andy welcomes Christina to the show and asks about her tag line on the about page of David Beahm Experiences. [03:43] What was Christina's focus at NYU Tisch School of the Arts? [04:46] Why did Christina go to Tisch? [06:21] Christina shares her post-graduation experiences and why she turned away from the performing arts. [08:24] How bridal magazines and The Knot influenced Christina's new career path and goals. [11:26] Christina found David Beahm on The Knot… and did her research. [12:25] What could Christina bring to the table with David Beahm's company? [13:24] Christina shares her strategy for being noticed by David Beahm. [14:06] How she finally got her chance to speak with him and wowed him into hiring her during a very volatile time. [17:52] How counseling has helped Christina and David's work relationship. [19:05] What are Christina's responsibilities as executive director of destinations? [21:17] Christina explains her beliefs on how number 1s and number 2s create magic together. [23:45] Why David's support is the reason Christina is so great at enhancing his business. [26:29] Christina has never considered herself an entrepreneur… she's a king-maker! [30:10] Turnover costs money. Christina shares how David Beahm Experiences has reduced their turnover. [31:58] Why success does not mean having your name on the door. [33:46] What can a number one do to keep a number two? [37:59] Number ones shouldn't fear the development of their number twos. [39:15] Christina's alternative name for number twos. [40:57] How to nurture current clients into becoming legacy clients. [44:18] What topics are on Christina's mind for her public speaking engagements? [45:52] How to reach Christina! LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz [email protected] Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Christina Matteucci Christina on David Beahm's Website Christina's Talk on TedxBeaconStreetChristina on Instagram @TeucciMama Christina on LinkedInDavid Beahm on Instagram @davidbeahmDavid Beahm on Facebook @davidbeahmdesign Mentioned during the interview: NYU Tisch School of the ArtsPreston Bailey's Episodes on the Wedding Biz - Part 1 and Part 2 Colin Cowie's Episodes on the Wedding Biz - Part 1 and Part 2 Robert Isabell The Knot David Beahm's Episode on the Wedding Biz Lynn Easton's Episodes on the Wedding Biz - Part 1 and Part 2 Bryan Rafanelli's Episode on the Wedding Biz Ceci Johnson's Episode on the Wedding BizColin Cowie's Episodes on the Wedding Biz - Part 1 and Part 2

Today on The Next Level, Andy Kushner is speaking with Valerie Gernhouser, Owner of Sapphire Events. She also created Sapphire Sessions Speaking Tour, a specialized program for wedding planners and event designers. They speak this week about Carrie Goldberg, the Travel and Wedding Director at Harpers Bazaar. She oversees all things bridal, weddings, and travel for Bazaar.com. She is also responsible for content strategy and visuals for Bazaar's digital travel and wedding verticals, and editor of Bazaar's new subscription program called Bazaar Brides. Valerie chats with us about her views, in addition to Carrie's, on redefining luxury, how it is a feeling, not about how much money you spend. She also agrees with Carrie that brides and grooms are more focused on the emotions, what makes it unique, and that it's all about the guests enjoying themselves. This is also a conversation about millennials, the digital natives. Anything they want is at their fingertips, and they are very adept at finding it. You won't want to miss it, so tune in and enjoy the discussion. Show Highlights: [01:08] Welcome to the show Valerie, it's great to have you back! [02:28] Andy and Valerie discuss Carrie's thoughts on redefining luxury. [03:15] Valerie agrees that luxury is about how you feel. [04:10] You can't put a price on the unique experience, it only happens once in a lifetime. [04:35] People getting married seem to want to focus more on the people that are attending the wedding. [05:12] Four-day weddings allow more opportunities to spend time with the people that attend and it gives more opportunity to wear more outfits! [07:05] Valerie says that millennials were born into this digital world and they are very adept at finding out any information they need in minutes. [08:43] They discuss that people today want events that are more personal and that are an extension of their entertainment style. [11:05] Millenials are of a mindset that things can change on a dime. Nothing is guaranteed. [11:25] They chat about Carrie's view of brides returning to the essentials and what makes it unique. [12:29] Valerie believes that there is a return to a more general consideration of people's feelings. [13:58] Brides and grooms feel a sense of empowerment because they can contribute to their own event. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Follow Carrie Goldberg Carrie on Instagram: @harpersbazaarus or @carrielauren Email Carrie: carrielgoldberg.com Harpers Bazaar Harpers Bazaar Bride Membership This Week's Guest Co-Host, Valerie Gernhauser owner of Sapphire Events Sapphire Events Valerie on Facebook:@sapphireeventsnola Valerie on Instagram:@sapphireevents Valerie on Twitter:@sapphireeventsNO Valerie on Pinterest@sapphireevents Valerie's Episode on The Wedding Biz: https://theweddingbiz.com/valerie-gernhauser/

Andy is very excited to welcome Carrie Goldberg. She is the Digital Travel & Weddings Editor at Harpers Bazaar where she oversees all things weddings and travel for HarpersBazaar.com. She is in charge of content, strategy, and visuals for Bazaar's digital travel and wedding verticals and editor of their new membership program Bazaar Bride. She has worked on Live with Regis and Kelly at ABC and as fashion editor for Martha Stewart Weddings to name a few. When she joined Harpers Bazaar, they didn't really focus on weddings and she changed all of that. Since then she has published dozens of original fashion and decor content for the site, plus she has created a considerable brand voice. Carrie and Andy chat about her internships and working the red carpet at the Oscars with Faith Cromas, Kelly Ripa's stylist. She speaks to us about working with Martha Stewart Weddings, which helped her gain the knowledge to succeed in her job at Harpers Bazaar. Carrie says she has the job she always wanted, even as a small child, and couldn't be happier. Listen in as she gives us insight into weddings, styling, and why she is passionate about the notion of luxury being redefined. Show Highlights: [02:07] Welcome to the show, Carrie! [03:05] Carrie tells us that in 4th grade she didn't go to school for a week because she felt she didn't have anything to wear. [04:25] She grew up in New York City and always had a hunger for fashion and art. [05:25] In high school, she did an internship at a fashion PR firm and stayed until after college. [06:03] She went to a call at ABC studio for Live with Regis and Kelly for a digital internship. [07:35] Working on the Oscars with Faith Cromas, Kelly's stylist, she was able to learn evening gowns and evening wear. [09:00] Carrie says there is very little difference between doing weddings and doing things like the Oscars. [10:10] She believes that people are not really sentimental about weddings like they used to be. [11:03] The trend now is for couples to pay for their weddings instead of asking their parents. [11:43] What are some interesting statistics that you can share with us? [12:40] They developed a members club for their faithful readers in the form of a subscription. [14:20] Carrie tells us she is surprised that more women aren't planning their weddings on their phones. [15:10] She believes that women's personal styles are more layered than they ever realized. [17:14] Do you have any thoughts on something that might compete with Instagram? [19:03] Graduating their readers from honeymoon travel to regular travel is a way for them to keep their readers longer. [20:30] She feels very passionate about redefining what luxury is. Luxury is no longer a synonym for expensive. [23:47] Martha Stewart Weddings was a finishing school in styling for Carrie. Taking the red carpet style on people and putting it on the printed page was something she had never done. [26:15] Lighting is huge because it can invoke a feeling depending on what kind of lighting is used. [27:03] She has accumulated and publishes a list of the best planners, best florists, and best photographers. [29:13] She asks real brides who they could or couldn't use and why. She keeps them in mind to watch for her list. [31:10] How are you dealing with the immediacy of today's digital world and people's ability to instantly share content? [33:15] Fashion is the first thing that grabs her attention for the magazine, second is diversity in every way. [36:58] They discuss how ironic it is that weddings are circling back to the traditional style. [38:15] She has had speaking engagements about the notion of redefining luxury. She has also talked about ridding the industry of styled shoots in favor of working on real weddings. [39:30] What is something you haven't spoken about that you would like to in the future? [40:18] Where do you see yourself in three to five years? [42:58] She hopes that she handles the pressure of her position gracefully. [43:40] Have you thought about your own wedding? What would you do? LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com Carrie Goldberg Carrie on Instagram: @harpersbazaarus or @carrielauren Email Carrie at: carrielgoldberg.com Harpers Bazaar Harpers Bazaar Bride Membership Mentioned during the interview: Faith Cromas Marth Stewart Weddings Rachel Zoe

Today on The Next Level, Andy Kushner is speaking with Lynn Easton, creator of Easton Destination Events, a worldwide luxury destination wedding design, and planning company. She is also the Co-Founder of Easton Porter Group, a luxury hospitality company with a portfolio of award-winning boutique hotels, vineyards, restaurants and event venues in North America and Europe. The discussion this week is on Marcy Blum, an internationally sought-after event planner, and entertainment expert. She has been named one of the best in the world by Vogue, Martha Stuart Weddings, Harper's Bazaar and the New York Times magazine. Marcy has worked with celebrities including LeBron James, George and Tamika Soros, Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick, to name a few. She has also appeared on television shows including Oprah, Live with Regis and Kelly and the Rachel Ray Show. Lynn speaks about how events need to evolve as they unfold. She also believes that every event should be customized for each client. Planners always need to up their game, plan more creative activities, and Marcy is the master at planning experiences. This is a conversation you won't want to miss. Show Highlights: [01:23] Welcome to the show Lynn, it's great to have you back! [03:30] Lynn chats about how she met Marcy on a panel at an Engage Summit. [05:20] They both agree with Marcy that using a pre-determined template for an event is not appropriate. [07:20] Every event should be customized for the client, and what the client wants. There should not be a set formula. [08:50] They discuss how Marcy is a master at planning experiences at her events. [09:55] Most weddings now are at least three or four days, and destination weddings can be five or more days. [12:36] Lynn chats about planning an event in a country she's never been to and how she finds the vendors she needs. [14:28] Where have you never been that you would love to do an event? [15:40] She agrees with Marcy that an event needs to unfold as it goes, there should be surprising moments. [18:10] Andy and Lynn agree that having a comedy type of event in the days before a wedding can relieve stress so that everyone warms up and has a great time. [19:22] Using place cards and seating guests around the tables, with intention, allows them to connect with other guests they may not know. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Follow Marcy Blum Marcy Blum Marcy on Instagram: @marcyblum Marcy on Facebook: @marcyblumassociates Marcy on Twitter: @marcyblum Marcy on Pinterest: @marcyblum This Week's Guest Co-Host, Lynn Easton creator of Easton Destination Events Easton Events Lynn on Instagram: @eastonevents Lynn on Facebook: @eastonevents Lynn on Pinterest: @eastonevents Lynn on Twitter: @eastonevents Lynn's Episodes on The Wedding Biz: Part 1 https://theweddingbiz.com/lynn-easton/ Part 2 https://theweddingbiz.com/lynn-easton-2-2/

Andy is very excited to welcome Marcy Blum, an internationally sought after event planner and entertaining expert who has 30 years experience. She has been named one of the best in the world by Vogue, Martha Stuart Weddings, Harper's Bazaar and the New York Times magazine. Marcy has appeared on many television shows and, with event planner Sarah Haywood, has developed EPIC, the Event Planners International Collaborative that offers an intensive and advanced wedding and event planning education. In this episode, Andy and Marcy discuss how she got started in the industry, when she started her own business and how scary it was to strike out on her own. She tells us about wanting her event designs to be different from everyone else and looking for clients who wanted the same thing. She also gives us insight into what the business looked like when she got started in the 80's and how it has evolved today. Listen in as Marcy talks to us about some of the weddings she remembers, the way she structures the rates she charges for her services, her advice for people starting out in the industry today and about EPIC, the program she started with her friend Sarah Haywood. Marcy is a pioneer in the event industry and you won't want to miss all of the knowledge she has to share about the industry. Show Highlights: [03:02] Welcome to the show Marcy! [04:30] Was there anything when she was growing up that was related to being in events? [05:20] She went to the CIA to be a chef but after graduating and working in restaurants decided that it wasn't what she wanted to do, it was too repetitive, not creative enough for her. [06:20] She was planning parties at restaurants and some of the customers started asking her if she could plan events for them. [06:45] Was she scared when she started out on her own? [08:47] She said if she knew then what she knows now, about how difficult it is, she would never have started her business. Good thing she wasn't aware of it at the time! [09:26] Is there a relationship between acting and event planning? [10:29] Back in 1986 how did people view her as a party planner? Did she try to do things differently than other party planners? [14:18] Did she have visions of how she wanted her events to be different? [16:35] She felt that everything was so canned and stiff back then, she wanted clients who wanted something different. [18:23] How did she balance the art with business decisions? Were they emotional decisions? [19:20] Marcy changed her business perspective by thinking more about the numbers instead of just the design. [20:18] She now spends more of her time on events that are profitable and points out we can't stay around this long unless we seriously consider the financial end. [21:13] Her advice for someone just starting in the business is to get knowledgeable about what you are trying to do. [22:13] You can't be successful without templates but you have to be able to customize them for each client. [22:48] She is all about the experiential approach to event planning, sell the sizzle not the steak. [24:45] Do you pay attention to the news on a daily basis? Does a possible recession scare you? [25:33] People, for the most part now, are more interested in what they are bringing to their friends and family than their own experience. [28:42] Is the demographic of the guests at a wedding important when planning the event? [29:35] Music should have a beginning, middle and end. Hear Marcy's favorite way of presenting music for ceremonies. [33:58] Marcy said guests really appreciate place cards at events, it can give guests a different experience and they can meet people they wouldn't normally have talked to. [34:57] Here her take on the best timeline for weddings. [35:53] Marcy talks about planning 3 or more day events before a wedding, starting with the rehearsal and lasting until after the wedding. [37:58] Marcy would love to take a lighting design course - the visual nature of it can take events to another level. [38:35] How involved is she in the lighting design of her events? [41:08] Is there a dream project she hasn't yet been able to do? [43:53] Learn about Marcy's pricing policy. [45:37] EPIC is hands-on education for someone wanting to take a deep dive into event planning. It is very intensive and lasts 3 to 4 days. [47:28] Within the next five years, Marcy would like to write a novel based around the event business. [48:21] What is her morning routine? [48:35] What is her work schedule like? [49:25] How does Marcy define success at this point in her life? LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Marcy Blum www.marcyblum.com Marcy on Instagram Marcy on Facebook March on Twitter Marcy on Pinterest Mentioned during the interview: Harriet Rose Katz

In this episode of The Next Level, Andy Kushner and Phillip Van Nostrand a photographer based in New York and California, talk about King Dahl's interview on the Wedding Biz. Phil has been been published in numerous publications including the New York Times, Fortune.com, Huffington Post and Forbes.com and was a master class speaker at WPPI. Listen in as they talk about King Dahl and his incredible designs. King is the former Executive Director of Event Design for MGM Resorts, where he was responsible for 1200 events a year. He is known for his signature style which is large, dramatic productions and was inducted into the Event Solutions Magazine Hall of Fame. They talk about how he left his career when he was at the top to slow down and enjoy life and then came back, two years later, as an in-demand event design and production consultant. This is a very entertaining episode about King Dahl, Phil's life philosophy, travel and making your job work around your life. So relax, plug in and get ready for an entertaining conversation. Show Highlights: [01:16] Welcome to the show Phil! [01:32] Andy and Phil discuss King Dahl and the amazing events he has designed. [02:08] King encouraged his team members to bring their own voice and personality to productions. [03:00] They chat about how it takes a top leader to empower and inspire people and not tell them what to do, but rather to ask their input. [04:52] King said we are always reinventing ourselves on a personal level and your career is just an extension of that. [05:15] King left his career for two years, just walked away from everything. [05:50] Phil chose freedom as his ultimate value point so every decision he makes circles around that point. [06:40] Phil spends about 10 days a month just doing what he wants to enjoy life. [07:38] Andy talks about how he took five weeks off, spending it on an island, which cleared his head, and gave him perspective and inspiration to start this podcast. [08:01] King said he didn't want to work 48 to 50 weeks a year so that he could only have a few weeks off...he wanted more time with his family. [09:55] Is Phil turning down work so that he can maintain his time off? [10:23] Phil has added photographers to his team so that he can delegate and maintain his way of life while earning what he needs. [13:05] King realized that in two to three years he would have to work again and realized he apply musical improvisation skills to his personal life. [14:20] Phil says that people who can improvise have a higher risk tolerance. [15:30] After 2 years King was asked to consult for MGM Resorts and other companies, which allowed him to work on his own schedule. [17:05] Prioritizing means you can build your job around your life instead of the other way around. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.Kushnerentertainment.com King Dahl MGM Resorts Event Productions Facebook - @kingdahlcreative Instagram - @kingdahlcreative Twitter - @kingdahlcreative This Week's Guest Co-Host, Phillip Van Nostrand of Phillip Van Nostrand Photography https://phillipvn.com/ http://www.phillipvnphoto.com/ Instagram @phllipvnweddings FaceBook @phillipvnweddings Twitter @phillipvn.com Phillip's Episode on The Wedding Biz: https://theweddingbiz.com/phillip-van-nostrand-photography-designing-your-lifestyle/

Andy is excited to welcome King Dahl, former Executive Director of Events at MGM Resort Event Productions leading the design and sales teams and ultimately responsible for 1200 events a year. King began in the event industry with Cheryl Fish before starting his own company King Dahl event design, which he later sold. King is known for large dramatic productions and he became an inductee of the Event Solutions Magazine Hall of Fame. King left it all behind to design his dream life, taking time with his family and traveling but also to allow the young guns in the event industry to spread their wings and see what they could do. He now works when he wants, on the events he wants to design and produce, and works around his life instead of living around his work. Listen as King give us a glimpse into his world, his events, his mentors and why he is glad that his new lifestyle allows him to play jazz again. He didn't let fear stand in his way as he planned and strategized to make this new lifestyle happen. Listen closely and you may be inspired to redesign your life to live on your own terms. Show Highlights: [02:04] Welcome to the show King! [02:32] Andy chats with King about meeting him years before at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. [03:05] King says that he documents all of his events with pictures and or video because once the event is over you only have the pictures left to remind you of what you did. [04:05] King was born in Indiana and grew up in Coco Beach Florida, his father was the youngest bank president at the time. He saw the Apollo take off from his backyard. 05:32] He got his love of music from his father who was a very good trumpet player and played with some of the greats of the time. [07:43] King is a bass player which is why music played a big part in his event planning, it was where he got his creativity. [12:05] He got a job in his brother's new company, an event planning company, building props where he met Cheryl Fish. [13:35] King gives us a rundown on the kinds of events they did those many years ago when this industry really got going. [17:28] He was given the opportunity to open his own company which he jumped on. [20:43] Cheryl offered him the position at the MGM to run the sales and creative division. [23:48] He surrounded himself with the best event designers in the industry and earned their trust and respect because he let them work creatively on their own. [26:43] King managed by breaking things down by team leaders and department heads. He then worked with them individually to make sure things were handled correctly. [28:53] You have to allow people on your team to spread their wings and take on responsibility, bringing in their own voices. [31:03] Have you ever reinvented yourself? Your business? Do you need to? [32:15] King handled events by understanding where the client is coming from and what the purpose of the event is. [35:15] He tells us a story of one of his favorite events for the Keep Memory Alive Foundation. [40:43] King left it all and moved with his wife to Washington State to slow down, relax and travel. [46:05] He said it was time for him to revamp himself and regroup. He also wanted to allow the new talent at MGM Grand to flourish and spread their wings. [46:52] King discusses his strategic plan that allowed him and his family to survive without having a regular income. [49:25] The day after his last event he said he was walking on air, the possibilities were endless and he felt free. [52:20] Has King changed since he started traveling around the United States and Canada? Did it open his eyes? [53:50] After a couple years he decided to start looking around for something new to do and MGM Resort Event Productions asked him to come back on a freelance basis.. [55:55] King now gets to pick and choose when he wants to work and what events he wants to work on. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment www.KushnerEntertainment.com King Dahl MGM Resorts Event Productions Facebook - @kingdahlcreative Instagram - @kingdahlcreative Twitter - @kingdahlcreative Mentioned during the interview: Cheryl Fish Kevin White Dan Frazee Kelly Creative

In this episode of The Next Level, Andy Kushner and Julie Novack, CEO and Co-Founder of Party Slate, chat about Ali Barone's interview on the Wedding Biz. Party Slate is a photo rich website where leading event professionals share their work, build their brand and drive leads. Listen in as they talk about why Ali started her own company, how she built her business with her ideal clients, and how she has her clients pin on their pinterest board with reckless abandon. Julie speaks about getting involved with the community when building your team, and how there are no bad ideas when brainstorming. Andy and Julie are professionals in this industry and never disappoint so sit back, unplug and listen to this entertaining discussion. Show Highlights: [00:53] Welcome back to the show Julie! [02:28] Andy chats with Julie about Ali Barone and using imagination instead of devices. [05:10] They discuss how Ali stated that she wanted to choose her ideal clients, and set her own schedule which is why she started her own company. [06:15] Andy says he loved the way Ali went to locations where clients she wanted to work with hung out so she could build relationships with them. [08:15] Julie speaks about getting involved with the community to find clients, investors and employees. [11:50] They chat about challenges, bumps in the road that all businesses face and how you have to just work through them to persevere. [13:25] Julie says you have to let people on your team know about the challenges so they can help solve the problems. [14:40] They talk about how Ali said she has her clients pin on a pinterest board "with reckless abandon." [16:11] Julie says there are no bad ideas when brainstorming for events. [17:25] They were in total agreement that people now want to do something different with their events. [18:20] Julie said that Party Slate website has over 500,000 photos now from events. Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Ali Barone http://www.alibaroneevents.com/ http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ali-Barone-Events/ https://www.pinterest.com/nyweddingmaven/ https://www.instagram.com/alibaroneevents/ This Week's Guest Co-Host, Julie Novack, CEO and Co-Founder of Party Slate PartySlate Julie Novack on Twitter Julie Novack on Linkedin Julie Novack on Facebook Julie Novack on Instagram Julie's Episode on The Wedding Biz: https://theweddingbiz.com/julie-novack-partyslate-building-a-venture-capital-backed-business/

Andy is excited to welcome, Ali Barone of Ali Barone Events, a multidimensional event design company. Ali was also on TLC'S show "While You Were Out," an emmy-nominated home improvement and design TV show. In this episode, Ali chats about her childhood, moving to the city with help from her grandma and friends to work in television by designing sets for shows and working with Diana Gould Limited. She tells us how she found her calling when she started planning events and even tells us about an event that she was really proud of and why education is so important to her. Listen as Ali tells us about what it takes to bring an event together and how she puts on workshops to educate people about how event works. Why Preston Bailey's Protege Program is such a wonderful learning experience, which she speaks at, and why she believes that getting people together in her coworking loft makes a difference. This is a really wonderful episode that will make you want to sit back and take it all in. Show Highlights: [02:44] Welcome to the show Ali Barone! [02:52] Andy and Ali chat about the TV show she was on and whether or not people recognize her on the street. [03:44] Ali talks about growing up in Brooklyn and her parents moving the family to the country. [07:05] Which part of her childhood inspired her launch into the career she has now? [10:07] Does technology and safety today keep children from exploring outdoors like we did in our childhood? [12:25] Ali tells us how hard it was to tell her parents that she wanted to be an art major, when they wanted her to go into the medical field. [13:45] She talks about moving to the city to start working in theater and television and how her Grandma Rose helped her. [15:43] Ali had contacts from her college years that she got in touch with for a place to live and got a job on St. Mark's Place in the East Village. [19:05] Ali got her break with the TV show 'While You Were Out'. [20:35] She assisted a friend on an event for the Children's National Defense Fund which won a BizBash award, where she fell in love with event design. [21:07] Ali got a job as a head designer with Diana Gould Limited. [22:48] After working with Diana Gould Limited for 5 years she opened her own company Ali Barone Creations. [27:41] When starting her new company what did Ali do to get her ideal client? [30:54] Her first steps for new clients is to get a call with them to see if they would be a good fit for each other. [32:28] Ali believes that you need a thought process of abundance...what does she mean by that? [33:05] Her second meeting is a one on one at the venue where they brainstorm. She encourages a Pinterest board for patterns and textures. [35:05] Ali chats with Andy about some of the events she has planned that stick out in her memory. [41:30] Ali says that in event planning/designing no one vendor is more important than the other, it's a big giant jigsaw puzzle that has to fit together. [42:58] Her goal was to grow her business in volume and sales by 20% every year until she felt satisfied. [44:07] She says education is so important, which is why she works with Preston Bailey and his protege program. [46:35] She has a coworking loft that brings women in business together socially and offers workshops to educate people. LINKS & RESOURCES Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues! Ali Barone http://www.alibaroneevents.com/ Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ali-Barone-Events/ https://www.pinterest.com/nyweddingmaven/ https://www.instagram.com/alibaroneevents/ Mentioned during the interview: Diana Gould Diana Gould Limited Preston Bailey Preston Bailey's Protege Program 'While You Were Out' a TLC program Preston Bailey: Designer for the Ages, Part 1 Preston Bailey: Part 2 Interview