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When you think about it, the statement “I hope…” is almost always about something external happening that may or may not directly affect you, but is certainly in your universe. You have no control over “I hope”. The results of “I hope” are as random as a flip of the coin. In the context of your art and your creative business, please, pretty please, kill hope and find your faith.

The Business of Being Creative – 100: The Story Of Your Price

Episode and Show Notes...
“Light creates the environment, the environment creates the mood, and the mood creates the experience.” – Bentley Meeker Today’s guest co-host, to discuss Bentley Meeker’s interview from Monday, is Sean Low. Sean’s consulting firm, The Business of Being Creative is focused on providing practical advice to those in the business of being creative. Sean’s client list includes the who’s who of the wedding industry and design community. And Sean has a podcast on The Wedding Biz Network, called The Business of Being Creative as well as a wonderful blog at thebusinessofbeingcreative.com Bentley is a New York City-based contemporary artist and lighting designer. He is the President of his own company Bentley Meeker Lighting and Staging Inc., specializing in lighting, audio-video staging, and rigging. A brief listing of his notable clients includes White House State Dinners, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, Claudia Schiffer, Eddie Murphy, Heidi Klum, Martha Stewart, and the Sex in the City cast. Some musical acts he’s worked with include Beyonce, Jay Z, Aerosmith, Aretha Franklin, Billy Joel, Bob Dylan, and many more. SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

The Wedding Biz – Episode 414 SEAN LOW: The Heart and Soul of the Wedding Industry

Episode and Show Notes...
When you think about it, the statement “I hope…” is almost always about something external happening that may or may not directly affect you, but is certainly in your universe. You have no control over “I hope”. The results of “I hope” are as random as a flip of the coin. In the context of your art and your creative business, please, pretty please, kill hope and find your faith.

The Business of Being Creative – 99: Hibernation

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – Episode 413 LAURIE ARONS: Overcoming the Obstacles of a Challenging Year

Episode and Show Notes...
When you think about it, the statement “I hope…” is almost always about something external happening that may or may not directly affect you, but is certainly in your universe. You have no control over “I hope”. The results of “I hope” are as random as a flip of the coin. In the context of your art and your creative business, please, pretty please, kill hope and find your faith.

The Business of Being Creative – 98: Vulnerability

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – Episode 412 KT MERRY: Implementing Adventure, Purpose, & Soul into Photography

Episode and Show Notes...
When you think about it, the statement “I hope…” is almost always about something external happening that may or may not directly affect you, but is certainly in your universe. You have no control over “I hope”. The results of “I hope” are as random as a flip of the coin. In the context of your art and your creative business, please, pretty please, kill hope and find your faith.

The Business of Being Creative – 97: Who Is Your Client?

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – Episode 411 Revisit: Brett Culp – Obstacle Or Opportunity

Episode and Show Notes...
When you think about it, the statement “I hope…” is almost always about something external happening that may or may not directly affect you, but is certainly in your universe. You have no control over “I hope”. The results of “I hope” are as random as a flip of the coin. In the context of your art and your creative business, please, pretty please, kill hope and find your faith.

The Business of Being Creative – 96: What Makes For Great Client Management?

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – Episode 410 HEIDI THOMPSON: Marketing, A Marriage of Two Passions and the Importance of Research

Episode and Show Notes...
When you think about it, the statement “I hope…” is almost always about something external happening that may or may not directly affect you, but is certainly in your universe. You have no control over “I hope”. The results of “I hope” are as random as a flip of the coin. In the context of your art and your creative business, please, pretty please, kill hope and find your faith.

The Business of Being Creative – 95: What Does It Mean To Be A Professional?

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – Episode 409 JENNIFER STEIN: Moving Forward and Lessons Learned from the COVID-19 Pandemic

Episode and Show Notes...
When you think about it, the statement “I hope…” is almost always about something external happening that may or may not directly affect you, but is certainly in your universe. You have no control over “I hope”. The results of “I hope” are as random as a flip of the coin. In the context of your art and your creative business, please, pretty please, kill hope and find your faith.

The Business of Being Creative – 94: Spiritual, Physical, Financial

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – Episode 408 PAUL MORSE: From the White House to White Gowns

Episode and Show Notes...
On this special episode of Preston's podcast, he is joined by one of his own former protégés, Gregory Van Glaanen Weygel, to relive their journeys. They discuss faith and success, Gregory's bad side (known as

Stop and Smell the Roses – 18: Gregory Van Glaanen Weygel: Preston’s Protégé-Turned-Producer on Spirituality in Business

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – Episode 407 REVISIT: Cindy Novotny – Mastering Motivation

Episode and Show Notes...
When you think about it, the statement “I hope…” is almost always about something external happening that may or may not directly affect you, but is certainly in your universe. You have no control over “I hope”. The results of “I hope” are as random as a flip of the coin. In the context of your art and your creative business, please, pretty please, kill hope and find your faith.

The Business of Being Creative – 93: Kill Hope

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – Episode 406 Sharon Sever: Head Designer for Galia Lahav – Worldwide Couture and High Fashion Design

Episode and Show Notes...
As we are coming out of the pandemic, we are bringing things back to the beginning while also turning the tables. On today's episode, Preston welcomes Wedding Biz Network Founder and Executive Producer, Andy Kusher--host of The Wedding Biz podcast. Andy takes the host seat and interviews Preston about his journey through the pandemic. .They discuss nurturing client relationships, the struggles that inspired their own pivots--both personal and professional, and what the future holds. Listen in and enjoy...

Stop and Smell the Roses – 17: Preston Opens Up About His Creative Process and How to Move Forward Post-Covid

Episode and Show Notes...
The world can create a lot of noise and chaos today. It becomes ever harder to see the forest for the trees. Do one thing less and return to your play with better defined characters.

The Business of Being Creative – 92: Overwhelmed Chaos

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – Episode 405 SHAN-LYN MA: CEO of Zola and How Her Company Has Experienced Explosive Growth

Episode and Show Notes...
The impact your work as a creative business will have and the places you might take it depend on your core and consistency between your business and your artistry. The frog and the scorpion comes to mind.

The Business of Being Creative – 91: The Importance Of Your Core

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – Episode 404 ANNA PRICE OLSON: Editorial Director, Brides

Episode and Show Notes...
The idea that your clients understand what you do is like most people in the United States appreciating how awesome Virat Kohli is. So let's talk contract.

The Business of Being Creative – 90: Know The Rules

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – Episode 403 REVISIT: Norma Cohen – Building A Thriving Business Within A Community

Episode and Show Notes...
This is definitely Preston's most personal episode, yet! His guest today is one of his FAVORITE people in the world--his husband, Theo Bleckmann! Theo is a massively accomplished musician with two Grammy nominations under his belt. And, in this episode, they take you down memory lane--sharing how they met and also discussing what makes a couple work, their own relationship challenges, supporting each other's demanding careers, and so much more. Listen in and enjoy...

Stop and Smell the Roses – 16: The Memories that Blossom

Episode and Show Notes...
We are all obsessed with something. Your obsession is why you are who you are both as an artist and business owner. We can get caught in the moment. The arrogance is to be defined by it. Tomorrow is always another day. Let the choice of perspective be yours.

The Business of Being Creative – 89: Optimism Is A Choice

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 402 GINA ESPOSITO AND SHEENA MEEKINS: Partners In Photography

Episode and Show Notes...
As a creative professional, you see what others do not. It is why you get paid. You try to lead those you seek to serve with a guiding hand. And yet. When those around you refuse your direction what are you to do. Let's talk about Leona Helmsley.

The Business of Being Creative – 88: Dignity

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 401 RYAN HILL: A Uniquely Theatrical Commitment to Creativity and Playing the Long Game

Episode and Show Notes...
Try harder. Pay more attention to detail. Focus. None of these are helpful to creative business employees. It truly is not about you as a person, it is about the system even if you are the only employee. Let's talk about the Blue Angels.

The Business of Being Creative – 87: More For Employees

Episode and Show Notes...
Credit- Anee

The Wedding Biz – 400 DANIELA BRAGA: A Professional Model’s Dream Wedding

Episode and Show Notes...
Preston's guest today is a luxury planner with achievements and accolades that rival other top planners in the business. After proving herself by working under other brands, Kaitlin Donaldson launched All the Best Moments in New York in 2020--bringing her dynamic experience and passion for curating exceptional events to a growing portfolio of clients. She and Preston discuss how helpful it is to educate luxury clients on the processes involved in planning a wedding, in order to help manage their time and budget expectations. They also discuss how critical communication is in keeping your relationships with your clients happy and healthy. Finally, Kaitlin shares booking headline talent and how to keep a calm leadership style through all types of chaos. She and Preston have formed a very special friendship, and it comes through in every moment of this episode. Listen in and enjoy...

Stop and Smell the Roses – 15: Keeping Cool Under Pressure

Episode and Show Notes...
This is not school and your employer is not your parent, teacher or even your friend. Now is the time to invest in yourself and be willing to be wrong before you are right. Let's talk about Lego's.

The Business of Being Creative – 86: What Does It Take To Be An Employee?

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen, as Andy and his guests, Rime Arodaky and Greg Finck,discuss how the pandemic affected them personally and professionally, what they have been doing with their time and where they see the industry post-pandemic, plus so much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Rime is a popular gown and dress designer out of Paris, and her company is considered a “Bridal House For Rebel Goddesses and inspired by women who are unapologetically themselves.” Greg runs the business side of Rime’s company, as General Manager, and is also a wonderfully gifted and admired photographer.

The Wedding Biz – 399 REVISIT: A Conversation With: CHRISTIAN OTH

Episode and Show Notes...
Storytelling requires engagement and imagination. If you lay it all out there you rob me of my ability to dream. Let's talk about fairness, no more no less and being the adult in the room.

The Business of Being Creative – 85: Start With What You Are Not

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 398 HUGH HOWSER: Incorporating a Sense of Humor and a Sixth Sense

Episode and Show Notes...
Preston is joined by Event Manager and Producer, Erin Halley, to discuss his favorite subject as events are booming back--money and budgets! How does this new age of events affect the three service areas of Preston's business: designing, planning, and execution. Erin shares her secret in discussing budgets with clients. How do you not let the fees scare the clients away? And, what are the silver linings to a potential client walking away, due to sticker shock? Listen in as Preston and Erin discuss strategies and share stories of what has worked for them and pick up pricing tips to better the success of your events-based business.

Stop and Smell the Roses – 14: The Golden Age of Events with Erin Halley, Presented by On the Move Entertainment

Episode and Show Notes...
Why does your business exist? To serve you, your clients? Or for you to serve it? My guess is you think the former but act like the latter. No better time to change than today.

The Business of Being Creative – 84: Who Do You Serve?

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 397 ANNIE LEE: Overcoming Challenges as the Daughter of Design

Episode and Show Notes...
There is always a better way, better than what I might offer, what you might offer. Who cares? There is no end to better, only the work to get to the very place you will never reach. When the delusion of better resides at your fingertips, we give up the search and the meaning of the search itself. Let's talk about a dog swimming in the ocean.

The Business of Being Creative – 83: Just Swim

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 396 TOM KEHOE: How a Driving Gig Became a Designing Empire

Episode and Show Notes...
Preston is joined by one of his long-time friends, Darren Olarsch--an entertainment producer at the absolute top of the game! The Founder of New York-based On The Move Entertainment, Darren has been producing INCREDIBLE entertainment for events since 1993--collaborating with his clients on a level that few others do. And that commitment paired with his true passion for creating an unforgettable experience makes him deliver an atmosphere that reflects his clients' personalities and thrills ALL their guests’ senses! On this episode, Preston and Darren discuss what makes a great band, creating and immersive experience, their friendship over the years, Darrent's pandemic silver lining, and so much more! Listen in...

Stop and Smell the Roses – 13: Crafting an Atmosphere with Darren Olarsch, Presented by On the Move Entertainment

Episode and Show Notes...
What do you get paid for and why? What you do not define will be defined by others. Let's talk about the Flux Capacitor.

The Business of Being Creative – 82: Back To Fundamentals

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 395 ROBIN AND JEFFREY SELDEN: Continuing a Legacy

Episode and Show Notes...
New year. New opportunities. The 21 day challenge. Change one thing. Let's talk about the marshmallow test.

The Business of Being Creative – 81: Back At It

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 394 REVISIT: Chef Roy Yamaguchi- Cuisine, Culture & Community

Episode and Show Notes...
Here are some last minute Christmas Wishes for all of you. Hint -- they all ask you to take a leap. What got you here will not get you there and there is where you need to go.

The Business of Being Creative – 80: My Christmas Wish List

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

Episode 393 AJ WILLIAMS: What Success Means in the Wedding and Galas Industry

Episode and Show Notes...
Too often creative businesses devalue themselves and overvalue client relationships. Case in point: giving a discount to repeat clients. It goes against having better clients pay more. Let's talk about the automatic stay in bankruptcy in the United States.

The Business of Being Creative – 79: Understanding Both Sides

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 392 Meg Smith: Photography As A Life’s Work

Episode and Show Notes...
Marketing or meaning? Emotion. Storytelling. Design. Luxury. Beautiful. Tasteful. Elegant. Sophisticated. None of these words really mean anything without context. It is up to you to make them valuable or banal, rich or colloquial, layered or trite. Let's talk Crazy Eddie

The Business of Being Creative – 78: Meaning

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

Episode 391 REVISIT: Simon T. Bailey- How To Harness Your Brilliance and Turbo Charge Your Business

Episode and Show Notes...
Unless you really value the next thing you do, you will be unaware of the margin. When you misprice your margin you will find yourself doing everything you do not want to do. Self-inflicted pain. Let's talk about unintended consequences.

The Business of Being Creative – 77: Living At The Margin

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 390 In Memory of Sylvia Weinstock: Queen of Cakes

Episode and Show Notes...
Creative businesses are busy. Many are seeking new employees as they grow. The question is what do you do when they show up? Teach tasks or show culture. Let's talk Herbie, Think Again, Loonshots and video diaries.

The Business of Being Creative – 76: A New Way To Introduce Employees To Your Business

Episode and Show Notes...
You thrive on your number of Instagram or TikTok followers. The likes on your posts, how many times you or your work is featured, well, anywhere. But the phone is not ringing. You (start to) panic. Let's talk about fishing.

The Business of Being Creative – 75: One Client At A Time

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 389 ELIZABETH SOLARU: From Biomedicine to Crafting World-Class Cakes

Episode and Show Notes...
To be effective, you have to communicate well. Translate senses. Explain even better. Let's talk bond math.

The Business of Being Creative – 74: Fluency

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 388 SARA RUSSELL: Wedding Sparrow the Award-Winning Wedding Blog and Shifting Priorities Following COVID

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 387 REVISIT: Eddie Zaratsian – Experiential Events to Delight the Senses

Episode and Show Notes...
I define entrepreneurship as being convicted enough to be relentless in having others believe as you do. This permeates everything a creative business is all about. Let's talk about Chobani Greek Yogurt.

The Business of Being Creative – 73: Entrepreneurship

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 386 EMILY REIFEL: Talking Weddings with the “Empress Em of Events” at The Plaza, NYC

Episode and Show Notes...
Most of us grew up learning about business through the eyes of the factory model. We all need factories and their models to live our lives. Creative businesses, on the other hand, are needs and have to leave that model behind. Let's talk about Justo Thomas.

The Business of Being Creative – 72: Factory vs. Community

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 385 CHIOMA ADURE NWOGU-JOHNSON: Humility and Accountability in a Multicultural World

Episode and Show Notes...
Bernadette and I discuss all things DEI and its impact on all business, creative and not. We talk about opportunity and change and the desire to be human. We also talk about forgiveness and being anti-cancel culture.

The Business of Being Creative – 71: Conversation with Bernadette Smith — Expert In Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Author of Inclusive 360

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 384 EMILY CAMPBELL: Planning and Designing Events with an Anthropological Perspective

Episode and Show Notes...
We are at a moment in time when your ability to tell your own story is more important than having someone else tell it for you. The real question though is what is the aim? Celebrity? Opportunity? Growth? Legitimacy? Let's talk Marcy Blum and Rishi Patel.

The Business of Being Creative – 70: To What End Marketing?

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 383 REVISIT: Mindy Weiss – Setting the Standard

Episode and Show Notes...
The absurdity of what resonates with our culture is never lost on me. I wanted to have a little bit of fun today to illustrate the point that the difference between legacy and a whimsical moment is often nothing more than a conviction to the absurd. Lets talk Beanie Babies And The Pet Rock.

The Business of Being Creative – 69: Beanie Babies And The Pet Rock

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 382 EVA CLARK: Anticipating Needs and Evoking Senses

Episode and Show Notes...
Knowing what you need to live the life you wish is the key to your success as a creative business. How much do you need and how much do you want to work? If you set your business up to be greedy, you will be. The result will be the illusion of success and failure. Let's talk about The Giving Tree.

The Business of Being Creative – 68: Greed Is For Fools

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 381 LAURYN PRATTES: Staying Relevant in a Saturated Market

Episode and Show Notes...
We all give lip service to the idea that you are interviewing a potential client as much as they are interviewing you. But are you really? Do you know what you need? Let's talk the legacy of Karen Ann Quinlan.

The Business of Being Creative – 67: What Are You Looking For In A Client?

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 380 COLIN COWIE: The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn’t Know They Wanted

Episode and Show Notes...
COVID has caused major disruptions and required alternate ways of doing business. It means that your business model needs to account for risk and perhaps change altogether. Let's talk 3 point baskets.

The Business of Being Creative – 66: When The Game Changes, You Need To Change Too

Episode and Show Notes...
Your ideal project -- the one that gives you the best chance of success has to be known. What this timeframe, thought process, looks like has to be known to everyone. It is from there that you leap. Let's talk Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

The Business of Being Creative – 65: There Has To Be A Paragon

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 379 JACK EZON: Bespoke Travel & A Risk-Taking Entrepreneur

Episode and Show Notes...
Fall is upon us and the instinct is to race ahead. What if you did one thing less? What would you have to charge to do it? Can you choose not to chase the shiny penny. Let's talk The Perfect Egg.

The Business of Being Creative – 64: Do One Thing Less

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 378 REVISIT: MINDY RICE of MINDY RICE DESIGN – Creating Feelings Instead of Just Events

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 377: SUNNA YASSIN & MOLLIE JONES-HENNES: Staying Relevant in an Everchanging Industry

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 376 REVISIT: THE TRAVEL SIBLINGS – Experiential Destination Travel

Episode and Show Notes...
I will be taking some time off after this episode (airing August 3rd) and will be back on August 24th. Yep, 21 days. So a 21 Day Challenge is in order. Let's talk about three radical changes, the problem with incremental change and an opportunity from me to you.

The Business of Being Creative – 63: The 21 Day Challenge

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 375: DAVE CALZARETTA – Fighting the Fear of Missing Out and Making Your Own Luck

Episode and Show Notes...
We should all chart our own course much deeper than simply a strategy to find uncharted territory. Be true to your soul as an artist, where there are no boundaries of possible only the imagination of what could be. What would your creative business look like then? Who says you have to charge any way that someone tells you to. Fifty years next year. Let's talk HBO.

The Business of Being Creative – 62: Frustration

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 374 REVISIT: MICHELLE RAGO – Weddings Around the Globe

Episode and Show Notes...
Since the dawn of the industrial age, if we can measure it, we will. For creative business, those standards are and will always be amorphous. How do you value an idea? Let's talk trains and clocks.

The Business of Being Creative – 61: Choosing What To Measure

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 373: JULIE NOVACK: Optimizing Your Digital Footprint

Episode and Show Notes...
The line between personal and creative is blurry at best. You are professional but you are also an artist required to move beyond the technical. Trust is sacrosanct and incredibly fragile. Be intentional, purposeful but not indulgent. The arrogance of opinion is defined when there is no humility. Let's talk about July 7th.

The Business of Being Creative – 60: Losing Trust, It Is Personal — Sort Of

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 372: NSBWEP – The National Society of Black Wedding and Event Professionals

Episode and Show Notes...
We are all in it now. The world has reopened (in the U.S. anyway) and the thrush of work is there. More then ever you are called upon to reinvent your creative business. Enter Dick Fosbury...

The Business of Being Creative – 59: Go Over The Bar Backwards

Episode and Show Notes...
Preston discusses the excitement that we are getting from clients as they begin to give us new business. However, he believes that safety isn't the only thing that needs to change post-COVID. As we begin to get more work, we need to reevaluate how we are pricing, negotiating, and finding team members. Listen in...

Stop and Smell the Roses – 12: Business is Back, but Preston Wants to Know if You are Ready

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 371 REVISIT: CECI JOHNSON – Designing Stationery, Lifestyle and Business

Episode and Show Notes...
We tell ourselves stories. Our memories are shaped by our own biases. We live in the definition we have given ourselves. Why? For the most part, for your creative business it ultimately becomes about choosing to be the Sun or the Moon.

The Business of Being Creative – 58: Your Narrative Defines You

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 370: MERYL SNOW: Selling Strategies and How They’ve Changed Within Today’s Market

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 369 REVISIT: RON BEN-ISRAEL – Answering the Call of Creativity with Couture Cakes

Episode and Show Notes...
The fluency of creative business is ever on order today. Design, Production, Installation/Reveal are the stages every creative business inhabits. The path forward remains with the opportunity for exposition. Simply, how do you get better at being memorable. Let's talk Blow Pops.

The Business of Being Creative – 57: Creative Ways To Improve Client Experiences

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 368: JOSE VILLA & LAURIE ARONS – Discuss Working Together As Photographer & Planner/Designer and More!

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 367 REVISIT: TARA GUERARD – Wedding Designer with a Southern Flair

Episode and Show Notes...
You are hungry, scrappy, do whatever it takes to get your big break. You never want to lose that. It feels arrogant if you do. And yet you know what got you here will not get you there. Let's talk Kate Winslet.

The Business of Being Creative – 56: Play On The Right Stage

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 366: TIM CHI – CEO, The Knot Worldwide and Reflections Post-Covid

Episode and Show Notes...
Today, Preston discusses how to produce a successful event that the client feels was worth the spend with the master of Event Production, Nadine Jervis. She has over 20 years experience making wedding fantasies come true. The Producer at Large at Preston Bailey, Nadine also continues to work with other globally renowned event designers like Norma Cohen, Marcy Blum, and Jeff Leatham. Nadine and Preston discuss how they literally created the title “Event Producer” before that was even a thing. And, they illustrate their experiences over the past years, including the good, the bad, and the ugly. We will even hear about the dry cleaning bills that resulted when guests suddenly experienced a wax mishap from the dinner candles. At the end, Nadine will share a few tips she has learned over time. Listen in...

Stop and Smell the Roses – 11: Defining an Event Producer with Nadine Jervis–Creator of the Title

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 365 REVISIT: JES GORDON – Bringing Personality to Every Event

Episode and Show Notes...
We all rely on our intuition to drive us forward. Intuition is a function of experience, natural gifts, education and maybe even just age. We use intuition to form opinions on just about everything. However, when the world changes, so too our intuition. Let's talk photography.

The Business of Being Creative – 55: Intuition

Episode and Show Notes...
Tune in as Andy interviews Harold James, a unique French hair and makeup artist in that he prioritizes the individual beauty and personality of each and every one of his clients. Harold is a pretty prolific makeup artist, having done work for celebrities such as Bella Hadid, Amber Valetta, Angelina Jolie, Karlie Kloss, Susan Sarandon, and Kendall Jenner. He has also contributed to a number of top publications like Vogue Italia, Vanity Fair Italy, Elle Italia, Harper's BAZAAR, Cosmopolitan, as well as many others.

The Wedding Biz – 364: KRISTY RICE – Soul-Filled Event Stationery and the Joy of Fine Art

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 363 REVISIT: ASHFER BIJU – Culinary Artist, Executive Chef at The Pierre New York

Episode and Show Notes...
All artists want to leverage their creative business. Most use influence and/or product to get where they want to go. They all want to be the next mega brand, the next unicorn. What if, instead, it was about community, connection, and intimate relationships? Let's talk Marth Stewart and Shop My Porch.

The Business of Being Creative – 54: The Next Mega Brand

Episode and Show Notes...
Tune in to this episode of the podcast as Andy talks with Christina Matteucci, executive director of David Beahm Experiences! Christina has actually been on the podcast before in episodes 188, 307, 346, and 214. And she joins Andy in this episode to discuss how everything that we do in business has an element of performance involved and how we can best understand and use performance when dealing with clients and giving presentations.

The Wedding Biz – 362: BRETT CULP: Transitioning Out of the Pandemic Back to “Normal”

Episode and Show Notes...
Tune in to this episode of the podcast as Andy talks with Christina Matteucci, executive director of David Beahm Experiences! Christina has actually been on the podcast before in episodes 188, 307, 346, and 214. And she joins Andy in this episode to discuss how everything that we do in business has an element of performance involved and how we can best understand and use performance when dealing with clients and giving presentations.

The Wedding Biz – 361: RENEE DALO – How to Market Your Business Via Clubhouse

Episode and Show Notes...
Preston and celebrity interior designer, Vicente Wolf, discuss how Vicente is the reason Preston touched his first flower. Vicente has advised  Preston throughout his over 40-year career. Learn about how they have kept relevant in their industries and continue to find inspiration--as well as practical tips on how to charge a client and presenting designs that sell. Listen in...

Stop and Smell the Roses – 10: Learn from Preston’s Mentor of Over 40 Years, Celebrity Interior Designer Vicente Wolf

Episode and Show Notes...
Just because you cannot see the air you breathe does not make it any less necessary for you to live. Same goes for risk. If you do not know what risk you are taking, when and how in your creative business, you are just gambling. More like playing Russian Roulette. Let's talk arbitrage.

The Business of Being Creative – 53: Risk

Episode and Show Notes...
Tune in to this episode of the podcast as Andy talks with Christina Matteucci, executive director of David Beahm Experiences! Christina has actually been on the podcast before in episodes 188, 307, 346, and 214. And she joins Andy in this episode to discuss how everything that we do in business has an element of performance involved and how we can best understand and use performance when dealing with clients and giving presentations.

The Wedding Biz – 360: CHRISTINA MATTEUCCI – Using Performance and Storytelling Techniques to Engage with Impact

Episode and Show Notes...
Today we listen to Andy and Rime Arodaky discuss the interview from the 17th with Harold James. Harold James is a unique French hair and makeup artist in that he prioritizes the individual beauty and personality of each and every one of his clients. Harold is a pretty prolific makeup artist, having done work for celebrities such as Bella Hadid, Amber Valetta, Angelina Jolie, Karlie Kloss, Susan Sarandon, and Kendall Jenner. He has also contributed to a number of top publications like Vogue Italia, Vanity Fair Italy, Elle Italia, Harper's BAZAAR, Cosmopolitan, as well as many others. Andy's guest co-host, Rime Arodaky, a popular gown and dress designer out of Paris and her company is considered a “Bridal house for Rebel Goddesses.” And “Inspired by women who are unapologetically themselves.”  Rime was featured on The Wedding Biz in episode #255.

The Wedding Biz – 359: THE NEXT LEVEL: Rime Arodaky Discusses: HAROLD JAMES – How a Hair & Makeup Artist Prioritizes Inner Beauty and Confidence

Episode and Show Notes...
Change sucks. It is hard, really hard and the inertia to change is a powerful mistress. The decision to change has to be with intention and an ultimate endeavor to reset your foundation without regard to result. Let's talk The Dip.

The Business of Being Creative – 52: Make Change A Choice

Episode and Show Notes...
Tune in as Andy interviews Harold James, a unique French hair and makeup artist in that he prioritizes the individual beauty and personality of each and every one of his clients. Harold is a pretty prolific makeup artist, having done work for celebrities such as Bella Hadid, Amber Valetta, Angelina Jolie, Karlie Kloss, Susan Sarandon, and Kendall Jenner. He has also contributed to a number of top publications like Vogue Italia, Vanity Fair Italy, Elle Italia, Harper's BAZAAR, Cosmopolitan, as well as many others.

The Wedding Biz – 358: HAROLD JAMES – How a Hair & Makeup Artist Prioritizes Inner Beauty and Confidence

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 357: REVISIT: MATTHEW ROBBINS: Creative Process and Connecting with Couples

Episode and Show Notes...
Join Preston as he invites celebrity wedding planner and author of The Wedding Book, Mindy Weiss to the show. From Kim’s first birthday to her wedding to Kanye, we have Mindy to thank for the amazing Kardashian celebrations we follow on social media. Preston and Mindy discuss dealing with the pandemic, celebrities, and the one thing Mindy will not tolerate from a client. They talk through their team dynamics and how to deal with employees that become like family and those that move on for their own growth. Listen in...

Stop and Smell the Roses – 9: Mindy Weiss on Event Planning for the Kardashians, Plus Managing the Covid Crisis and Your Crew

Episode and Show Notes...
We are at an inflection point. The public recognizes the value of design and is willing to pay for it. To what end leverage then? What are you willing to do to earn that value and will you become the provider or the product? Let us talk Facebook and Theexpert.com.

The Business of Being Creative – 51: The Value Of Design

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy interviews Lauren Dickens, founder and lead designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based out of New York City. Although she loved parties when she was a child because she always enjoyed the ones that her grandmother hosted, Lauren didn’t go into the wedding planning business until well into her adulthood after hosting a friend’s baby shower. Hosting events then became a hobby until it finally became an entrepreneurial career. Lauren is unique in that she doesn’t like cookie cutter methods. She has a unique and personalized brand that has become her signature. In fact, she always wants to go all out and be very creative but sometimes can’t take it as far as she would like because of budget constraints. She also has to find a balance between business and creativity which she does, in part, with business partners and personal assistants. She has managed to find these balances and does so successfully, as Elle Audrey is nothing if not successful! The jump from the corporate world to a world of entrepreneurship can often be a scary one, and it most certainly was for Lauren. She took a leap of faith by leaving a job where she was earning a definite income and hoping that she could make it as an entrepreneur, but it definitely paid off for her! She offers advice to people looking to go down a similar path as hers and/or people who already are on that path but are looking to take it to the next level, suggesting that people today not do what she did and take that leap of faith because of the times that we currently live in. She also encourages entrepreneurs to not take on every single prospective client because you and the client need to be good matches for each other. She says to not focus too much energy on your Instagram page and to scale your business, and she, finally, enthusiastically recommends raising your prices once every year or two. Andy said that he had a blast interviewing Lauren in this episode and hopes that you will enjoy listening to his conversation with her! Please be sure to share this episode with at least three friends who you think would enjoy it and/or benefit from it. We would also very much appreciate a review and hope that you will join us next time on The Wedding Biz. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 356 LAUREN DICKENS – Balancing Business with Creativity

Episode and Show Notes...
Aleya Harris is the owner of Flourish Marketing and The Social Media Pantry. With more than 13 years of marketing experience, she helps business owners get more clients. Andy actually met her on Clubhouse while listening to a room Aleya was moderating, and he was very impressed by her knowledge. Listen as Andy and Aleya discuss how to create an effective brand story.

The Wedding Biz – 355 ALEYA HARRIS – Creating An Effective Brand Story

Episode and Show Notes...
Perfectionism lives within so many artists. Cliches abound:

The Business of Being Creative – 50: Perfectionism vs. Vision

Episode and Show Notes...
“I believe this job is the practice of love.” Listen as Andy and his guest, Dewi Kurniadi, have a truly inspirational conversation about creating and running her business, her personal journey before making the leap into being an entrepreneur, what it took to make a major geographical move, dealing with immense challenges, and forging her own path, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Dewi is the Founder of Sweet Bloom Cakes, an extremely popular and successful Sydney-based boutique studio offering custom-designed handcrafted cakes, confections, and personalized event experiences. Listen as Dewi shares where she gets the inspiration for her cake designs and when she knew it was time to go full time with Sweet Bloom Cakes. She talks about rebelling against her parents and what they wanted her to do versus following her dreams. Dewi discusses her process and how she learned to build a team that could support her and help grow her business. She shares a story about when a client wanted her to design a cake with doves in it for her grandfather and other challenges she has had to face and overcome. Dewi also shares some tips and advice for any cake designers who want to take their businesses to the next level and how she balances the business and creative sides of her company. When she needs to recharge, Dewi likes to window shop for inspiration and find new textures to use on her cake designs. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 354 DEWI KURNIADI – Creating Ethereal Beauty with Cake Design

Episode and Show Notes...
What does it mean to be proactive? How often do you practice being, well, you? Let's talk brain surgery.

The Business of Being Creative – 49: Proaction

Episode and Show Notes...
“Because the vision, ideas, and concepts that I come up with are new and leading in the industry I’m going places others haven’t yet been, and that’s been amazing.” Listen as Andy and his guest, Holly Chapple, discuss how Holly is more of a big vision person and how she implements those visions. We talk about her virtual teachings, her latest favorite design aesthetic, her process with clients, how she handles her social media, and how she balances raising a large family with being an entrepreneur, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Holly is a popular event and floral designer who is the owner and President of Holly Chapple Flowers. She not only executes beautiful weddings and events but also operates Hope Flower Farm out of Loudoun County, Virginia, a flower farm and key floral source for her design work and the base camp for in-person education. Holly also leads a collective of designers from all over the world Via Chaple Designers. Her floral work has been published in numerous publications including Martha Stewart, Southern Living, Brides, Southern Weddings, Elegant Bride, and Weddings Unveiled. Listen as Holly shares her journey from a floral designer to teacher and speaker and why she created Hope Flower Farm. Holly discusses how she handles the business side of her company and her focus on providing an environment for her team to become leaders in their own individual departments. Holly talks about her own patented product line of vases and armatures that help people design flowers, how she grew other aspects of her business this past year, and the community her son created on Facebook called The Greenhouse. Holly also believes that there will be complications post-Covid and she wants people in the industry to have a lot of grace with themselves. Holly speaks about her process, her very large social media following, how often they post content, and what she believes gives them the edge and keeps them coming. She knows one thing she does right is manage the Instagram page for Holly Chapple and personally answers every DM she gets. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 352 HOLLY CHAPPLE – Working The Big Vision

Episode and Show Notes...
Take a peek with Preston behind the publicity curtain with publicist-to-the-stars, Tracey Jordan. Tracey has represented quite the portfolio of clients, including the late Aretha Franklin. In this conversation, Tracey explains why hiring a publicist to work with you can be such an accelerator of your brand's growth. If you've ever considered hiring a publicist, Tracey and Preston will quickly uncover for you why NOW is the time to do it. Then, Tracey sheds light on her key advice for where to start your publicity process and how to get news outlets to bite. She generously shares so many tricks of the trade, such as how you can still get your work publicized--even for the most private of celebrity clients. Tracey truly knows the ins and outs of publicity and does not hold back. Listen in....

Stop and Smell the Roses – 8: A Peek into Publicity with Publicist Tracey Jordan

Episode and Show Notes...
David Beahm, world-class wedding designer and planner, known for his inventive work and trademark lavish flower creations, has designed countless weddings for society, high profile and discerning clients, including Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas, as well as a host of celebrity and Fortune 500 corporate events. In this episode, we learn a lot about David and how got there from here—his early days as a teacher, his deep background in music and musical theater, and the leaps of faith that enabled little and big synchronicities alike.

The Wedding Biz – 351 REVISIT: DAVID BEAHM: Risk & Synchronicity

Episode and Show Notes...
Art is impactful to the patron as they find themselves in it. We enjoy art from our own worldview. The ultimate Rorschach Test. Artistry, on the other hand, is a singular journey. How you, the artist, take us from here to there is idiosyncratic. Can you choose to be a chameleon? Let's talk Bernie Madoff.

The Business of Being Creative – 48: Can You Be A Chameleon?

Episode and Show Notes...
“Keep doing what you are doing, but work extremely hard at it. You have to work from the heart.” Listen as Andy and his guests, Arun Bablani, discuss at what age his interest in event planning became clear and his decision to make it his career. They also talk about what motivated him to start his own company, his courage and his belief that anything worth having doesn’t come easy, and when he began to specializ in South Asian weddings, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Arun is the founder of Vivaah Weddings, a premier wedding planning, and management company operating globally for destination weddings with offices in the UAE. They specialize in South Asian weddings in the form of Indian, Pakistani, Srilankan, and Bangladeshi weddings. Vivaah Weddings was rated the best wedding planning and management company in the Middle East by Brides Awards 2020, the Best Wedding Planner 2020 global wedding category at the International Wedding Awards, Best Wedding Planners 2020 Best Wedding Concept and Destinations wedding category at the Belief Weddings Awards, and the prestigious WOW Awards Middle East 2019 under the category of Wedding Celebrations of the Year. Listen as Arun shares what he believes has to align in order to have a successful business, when he decided to specialize in South Asian weddings, and what he feels sets him apart from other planners who produce and manage South Asian weddings. Arun talks about a wedding he planned and designed at Disneyland Paris and all the intricacies that went into the event. Arun shares how he integrates the creative side of his company with the business side, the most difficult aspect of what he does, and how he stays relevant with the constant change in technology. Arun talks about some weddings he has designed with unique challenges, from creating level ground out of a mountain to designing a full-on wedding for six people with no holds barred. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 350 ARUN BABLANI – Creating Luxurious South Asian Weddings

Episode and Show Notes...
I met Dana on Clubhouse and was really impressed by the ease and style with which she conducts herself as a moderator and speaker in various rooms. She is completely comfortable in her skin and exudes an inviting confidence. Dana Bowling is a business and motivational coach helping women gain confidence, take action, and show up & stand out on Instagram and Clubhouse. As a former Casting Director in LA, Dana has discovered talent for Disney, Nickelodeon, ABC, MTV, FOX and more. A mom to two young energetic boys, she truly understands what it’s like to build a business and show up consistently while balancing #momlife. Her energy & vulnerability are contagious and you can always trust Dana to keep things real, making her the best biz bestie you’ll ever have. She is the host of the AMP It Up Podcast where she inspires women with tangible, actionable advice on how to show up, stand out, and start their businesses. On Instagram @thisisdanabowling, you can find her coming in hot with Instagram & Reels tips and giving you daily motivation to succeed in both life and business. And when she’s not on Instagram, she is moderating on Clubhouse where she has gained over 5k followers in two months sharing advice and tips.

The Wedding Biz – 349 DANA BOWLING – Finding Your Voice on Clubhouse and Being a Great Moderator

Episode and Show Notes...
We live in a world of validators, franchises and even networks. Duncan Hines, McDonald's and The St. Regis. What if we created a different kind of consortium for creative business? Would we all be able to play nice in the sandbox and change the way clients make their choices? What would the world look like if we did?

The Business of Being Creative – 47: How Do We Come Together?

Episode and Show Notes...
What do you know about Clubhouse? Listen as Andy and his guests, Jen Vazquez and Morgan Childs, discuss the basics of Clubhouse, what it is, why we should care about it and how we can best use it for our businesses, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Jen is a Marketing Strategist specializing in Pinterest and a destination wedding and branding photographer. Morgan founded Moana Events and Bella Destination Events and then created another element by adding Modern Elopement. Morgan has been called the elopement expert by Destination I Do Magazine. Listen as Jen and Morgan share how they view Clubhouse, the rooms and clubs inside, and more. They also compare Clubhouse to other platforms. And they share how Clubhouse can be used in the event industry to grow businesses. Since there is no DM feature on Clubhouse, you must link it to your Instagram account to get the full benefits of the platform. Andy, Jen, and Morgan discuss how important your profile on Clubhouse is and share some tips on the best way to create it to reach the most people. A great tip is to use the same profile picture in Clubhouse that you use on Instagram, so when someone clicks over, they can see that they are in the right place. Jen and Morgan both talk about what they see happening in the future with Clubhouse and invite you to contact them if you would like to find out more about it. They both believe you should get in now, reserve your username, and check out the rooms and clubs that might interest you.

The Wedding Biz – 348 JEN VAZQUEZ AND MORGAN CHILDS – Getting Familiar with Clubhouse

Episode and Show Notes...
Taxes. Taxes. Taxes! As the deadline looms for us all, Preston invites a tax specialist to answer ALL our questions--his niece, Zellerita McNight. Zell is an accomplished accountant and tax preparer who (as Preston himself puts it) REALLY knows her stuff. And, they will cover a LOT on this episode for you, starting with the tax differences you'll face based on the type of entity you establish your business as in the first place. Then, Preston and Zell discuss expense declarations, changes under the new administration, COVID impacts, how to avoid being audited, and so much more. And, Zellerita drops golden nuggets of information along the entire way to get you and YOUR business through tax season! Listen in....

Stop and Smell the Roses – 7: Taxes 101 with Specialist Zellerita McNight

Episode and Show Notes...
Matt is an award-winning photographer who has gained a world-class reputation for his exquisite documentary style photography. He is considered the Royal Photographer for his work with the Cambridges. Matt also helps change-makers make a difference and shoots on behalf of Ocean Culture Life, a global community of storytellers, photographers, filmmakers, and environmentalists whose lives have been shaped by the sea. Andy and Matt talk about how the experience of the pandemic has helped them to seek out what’s really meaningful, for each of them, and to explore how they will reset themselves as life begins to come back to what it will be post-Covid.

The Wedding Biz – 347 Matt Porteous/Photographer – Following Our Hearts Post-Covid

Episode and Show Notes...
We are on the precipice of emergence. We can feel it -- the demand for creative business is exploding as people search to express what they have not been able to express for the last year. Savor the responsibility and slow down. Let's talk about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

The Business of Being Creative – 46: Take A Breath

Episode and Show Notes...
“We’ve all just lived a year of uncertainty.” Listen as Andy, and his roundtable guests Rishi Patel the CEO of HMR Designs, Carrie Goldberg the Travel and Weddings Director at Harper’s Bazaar, Christina Matteucci the Executive Director of David Beahm Destinations, and Augusta Cole primary Planner and Designer with Augusta Cole Weddings and Events discuss what they have learned from going through the Covid pandemic and how it’s changed them personally and with their businesses. They also talk about how they have applied what they’ve learned and what events might look like post-Covid, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Christina shares how the pandemic affected her personally, what she learned from it and how much stronger she feels. Carrie speaks about all that she has learned. Augusta talks about the changes she went through including the relocation of her business, and Rishi discusses the silver linings he found as a product of the pandemic. Listen as Rishi speaks about what he thinks will be different in events post-pandemic. Christina hopes the pandemic makes people rethink what is important when planning and designing a wedding and that event professionals will give themselves grace instead of perfectionism. Carrie believes that imperfection is the new perfection and the vision will be more authentic to the bride. And Augusta talks about the rules that were broken in 2020 and how the typical functions of an event had to be rewritten. It looks like things might be more normal around summertime and definitely by the fall. Listen to hear what each guest is looking forward to! Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 346 ROUNDTABLE WITH CARRIE GOLDBERG, RISHI PATEL, CHRISTINA MATTEUCCI, AND AUGUSTA COLE

Episode and Show Notes...
Today’s episode is with various members of the Live Event Coalition (LEC) to discuss the organization's mission, the latest relief bill, the upcoming May recovery bill, what the organization advocates for, and how we can support it. Guests: Dwayne Thomas – Chairperson for Government Affairs, Live Events Coalition and President Live Events Industry of Oregon, owner of Greenlight Creative. John Garberson – Creative Director of Backstage and President of the AZ Chapter of the LEC Kelsey Morgan Rausch – Handles marketing for the AZ chapter of the LEC and co-owner of Honeybee Events

The Wedding Biz – 345 THE NEXT LEVEL: LIVE EVENTS COALITION – The Latest Efforts

Episode and Show Notes...
Creative business is all about the irrational, the ephemeral, the desire for other. It is the business of hope and transcendance. How you get from challenge to solution is of course a trek through the unknown. Welcome to Wonderland.

The Business of Being Creative – 45: Living In Wonderland

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen as Andy and his guests, Tara Fay and Bruce Russell, discuss how they have handled the past year both personally and professionally, what they see happening in 2021, and the new online business they launched, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. 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, 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 was the co-star of RTE Ireland’s TV production of My Big Day: Home or Away, along with Bruce Russell. 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 numerous International Publications. His TV appearances include his co-star role with Tara in RTE Ireland’s production of My Big Day: Home or Away. Bruce and Tara discuss what they learned through the pandemic about themselves and their businesses and the changes they hope to carry over post-pandemic. They share the new business they started and why they took the year to refine their offering to make sure it was the best it could be before launching it. They also speak about the time they took to give back to the industry and give couples advice and tips on planning their dream wedding. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 344 TARA FAY & BRUCE RUSSELL – Staying Positive, Looking Forward and Giving Back

Episode and Show Notes...
Today, Preston hits his Wise Old Man segment sweet spot - driving straight to the practical points of taking care of clients. These ten commandments for Preston have served as a solid foundation for both the growth of his business and for elevating the experience level for which he has become known. Listen to find which of these rules that he has set in stone for himself are going to be the next guideposts for YOUR event business. Then, Preston answers another wonderful listener question on a brand new Dear Preston segment--this time on the topic of breaking into the industry! Listen in to today's episode, presented by FMI Farms...

Stop and Smell the Roses – 6: Preston’s 10 Commandments, Presented by FMI Farms

Episode and Show Notes...
You know how you treat your clients. You know the promises you make and how you intend to keep them. Yet you do not consider yourself a super client. You do not demand the level of excellence, expertise, and attention your clients demand of you. Why? Let's talk Netflix. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 44: What Does It Mean To Be The Super-Client?

Episode and Show Notes...
“Light creates the environment, the environment creates the mood, and the mood creates the experience.” Listen as Andy and his guest Bentley Meeker have a discussion about light that Andy guarantees you have never heard before, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Bentley is a New York City-based contemporary artist and lighting designer. He is the President of his own company Bentley Meeker Lighting and Staging Inc., specializing in lighting, audio-video staging, and rigging. A brief listing of his notable clients includes White House State Dinners, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, Claudia Schiffer, Eddie Murphy, Heidi Klum, Martha Stewart, and the Sex in the City cast. Some musical acts he’s worked with include Beyonce, Jay Z, Aerosmith, Aretha Franklin, Billy Joel, Bob Dylan, and many more. Bentley shares why he is trying to get people to realize how underutilized light is in life and shares the different types of light available and what he prefers to work with. Bentley speaks about the kinds of lighting he has in his home and why and why he will never put someone under LED or fluorescent lights. Bentley discusses his cardinal rule that if anyone is going to be sitting in a space for more than twenty minutes, he will always use incandescent light. Bentley believes that light affects us on the physiological and spiritual level, and the lighting in the room affects the day a person is having and how they feel. Listen as Bentley speaks about the relationship between lighting and audio and why they decided to start doing video. Bentley also shares his journey from getting kicked out of high school at age fourteen to where he is today and everything that happened to him along the way. Bentley says that his vision going forward is to find an effective way to get this conversation about light into the public discourse in a uniform way. He believes that light is the very essence of who we are and that it has its own language. Bentley is kicking around the idea of writing a book but isn’t sure what that looks like right now. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 342 BENTLEY MEEKER – Lighting Design That Speaks on a Physiological and Spiritual Level

Episode and Show Notes...
Richard is the CEO of McQueens Flowers, the internationally renowned luxury floral design brand and flower school. Founded in London’s east end in 2001 with customers in Mexico, the United States, Japan, France, Korea, Kuwait, Singapore, Hong Kong, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Spain, and Australia. They have provided flowers for Vanity Fair’s Oscars afterparty for the last twenty-five years and were the floral design partner for the All England Lawn Tennis Club’s Wimbledon Champions Ball and the London Evening Standard Theatre Awards. Kurt Macher is our guest co-host and is the General Manager of the absolutely stunning Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London.

The Wedding Biz – 341 Kurt Macher discusses RICHARD EAGLETON/McQueens Flowers – Never Let A Crisis Go To Waste

Episode and Show Notes...
COVID has shifted our culture and forced us to rethink what and how we do what we do. The question is what will you take with you. Let's talk Zoom, Project Managment, Cash Flow and Marketing. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 43: What Will You Take With You Post-Pandemic?

Episode and Show Notes...
“The power of flowers to lift our spirits shouldn’t be underestimated.” Listen as Andy and his guest Richard Eagleton discuss the power of flowers, social prescribing, and how he feels that mental health and well-being will be the greatest human global challenge arising from the pandemic, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Richard is the CEO of McQueens Flowers, the internationally renowned luxury floral design brand and flower school. Founded in London’s east end in 2001 with customers in Mexico, the United States, Japan, France, Korea, Kuwait, Singapore, Hong Kong, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Spain, and Australia. They have provided flowers for Vanity Fair’s Oscars afterparty for the last twenty-five years and were the floral design partner for the All England Lawn Tennis Club’s Wimbledon Champions Ball and the London Evening Standard Theatre Awards. Listen, as Richard shares when he discovered his passion for flowers and his journey to McQueens. He discusses their flower school and how he handles being creative and working the business simultaneously. When Richard asked his team what they saw as McQueens vision, they responded to be the best flower business in the world to work for. Richard strives to make that happen every day. Richard talks about what they did during the pandemic to make their online store profitable; he believes when you have falling or zero sales, it’s an opportunity for improving margins. He discusses what he sees happening in the event industry post- Covid. When asked for his advice at the beginning of the lockdown in the UK, Richard said be kind because it costs nothing and will always come back, keep an eye on the horizon because the bumpy road to get there is easier to travel if you know where you are heading and third, just worry about the things you can change and stop worrying about the things you can’t. Do you need some tips on handling stress during this crazy year? Andy has put together a list of the top ten tips for dealing with stress, which he has compiled from interviews with icons of the wedding and event industry. If you would like a copy, go to www.theweddingbiz.com/toptips. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 340 RICHARD EAGLETON/McQueens Flowers – Never Let A Crisis Go To Waste

Episode and Show Notes...
In his first introduction to his Wise Old Man segment, Preston discusses some of his philosophies behind his approach to taking care of his clients. He shares his extrovert envy, while highlighting the advantage that being an introvert has given him in learning to listen for his clients' true needs. Often, that has made the difference in his business when handling clients who REALLY know what they want versus those who need help figuring their wants out. Preston also opens up about how his daily routine has kept him centered in a simpler life. In particular, he explains proactively setting aside time for two things: sequestering the negativity in his life, and making space for trial and error. Then, he answers the first ever Dear Preston listener question--this time on the topic of navigating politics in your event planning. Listen in...

Stop and Smell the Roses – 5: Taking Care of My Clients, My Morning Routines, and My Friendships Across the Aisle, Presented by FMI Farms

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy welcomes Lauren Dickens to the show as his guest co-host for today’s episode. Lauren is the Founder and lead planner and designer with Elle Audrey, a luxury planning and design company based in NYC and their tag line is “distinctively designed with you in mine.” Lisa is the CEO and Creative Director of Papered Wonders. As stationers, they design, create and produce exquisite wedding stationery that represents the love and passion shared by the couple. All of their designs are unique and share a piece of the love story unfolding during the time leading up to the wedding. Papered Wonders is also a custom design and print studio, and Lisa also assists other business owners in crafting their best look on paper and other collateral. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 339 LAUREN DICKENS discusses LISA ZACHERY – Embodying True Passion in Stationery

Episode and Show Notes...
Michael Beneville is a remarkable futurist with a firm understanding of what tomorrow might be. This is one you are probably going to have to listen to over and again because the pearls of wisdom are mind boggling (to me anyway). Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 42: Conversation with Futurist Michael Beneville

Episode and Show Notes...
“Imagine your dreams on paper, imagine being able to embody true passion in stationery.” Listen as Andy and his guest Lisa Zachery discuss the meaning behind this quote, her passion for stationery, her belief that invitations set the tone for the event you are having, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Lisa is the CEO and Creative Director of Papered Wonders. As stationers, they design, create and produce exquisite wedding stationery that represents the love and passion shared by the couple. All of their designs are unique and share a piece of the love story unfolding during the time leading up to the wedding. Papered Wonders is also a custom design and print studio, and Lisa also assists other business owners in crafting their best look on paper and other collateral. Listen as Lisa shares her process for designing invitations that showcase the couple’s love, how they use favors to imbed the wedding memory into each guest’s hearts and what inspires her to pick the right font, graphics, color, etc. Lisa also helps other creatives rebrand their businesses because she believes that branding is ever-evolving, and as a company grows, its story changes. Lisa discusses needing more diversity in the industry and the need for more women in power everywhere. She gives advice on what to look for when finding a wedding planner and someone to design wedding invitations because they all need to work together to create the best experience for the couple. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 338 LISA ZACHERY – Embodying True Passion in Stationery

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy welcomes Phil Van Nostrand back to The Next Level. Phil is based out of New York and Los Angeles. Phil photographs weddings, commercial, and lifestyle projects and is an expert at capturing bright cinematic lifestyle imagery. Listen as they discuss Josh Spiegel, the Creative Director and President of Birch Event Design, a high-end decor, production, and floral company. Phil speaks about a support group of industry professionals that Josh is a part of during the shutdown and how he himself created his own network of people to reach out to. Phil also talks about the challenge Josh had to create something different for each event while planning daily weddings within the same group of individuals. Phil discusses how Josh used social media to garner business during the pandemic while staying safe by doing smaller events, having the host testing each guest, and social distancing. Phil agrees with Josh that the smaller events will carry over because people see the beauty in creating an experience for their guests and being able to connect on a deeper level. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 337 SEAN LOW discusses IRA LEVY – Tastefully Using Technology to Create Lighting Designs

Episode and Show Notes...
Doing work you hate never leads to the work you love. And skill is a commodity, passion is everything. What do these things mean? Do they matter? Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 41: Having Perspective

Episode and Show Notes...
“What I strive to do for every couple I shoot is to deliver variety, quality, and consistency throughout.” Listen as Andy and his guest Erich McVey discuss a variety of topics, including how he got started in photography and what he means by combining documentary and fine art styles when he shoots weddings plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Erich is a wedding, portrait, and editorial film photographer with a love for medium format cameras, natural light, and incredible scenery. Erich was named by Harpers Bazaar, Brides, and Martha Stewart Weddings as one of the world’s best wedding photographers and twice selected as film Photographer of the Year.

The Wedding Biz – 336: IRA LEVY – Tastefully Using Technology to Create Lighting Designs

Episode and Show Notes...
Tackle your creative business' contract woes with Preston's guest--New York-based creative business attorney and advisor, Kunbi Odubogun. She is the creator of Legally Set--an online template shop offering legally sound contract templates for entrepreneurs, event pros, and creative business owners. She and Preston dive into common contracts issues for creatives--including (and in particular, because of) how to structure your creative business' contracts in the time of a pandemic. Kunbi answers ALL kinds of questions from Preston on force majeure clauses, using retainers versus deposits, common contract mistakes, what

Stop and Smell the Roses – 4: Get Legally Set with Your Creative Business’ Contracts, Presented by FMI Farms

Episode and Show Notes...
“Music is a force and power tool for our well being.” Valerie Romanoff, founder of Starlight Music, is Andy’s guest on the show today. Valerie was on episode 24 of The Wedding Biz back in October 2017 and has had quite a pivot since. So, Andy wanted to have her on the show to catch up and find out what she has been doing. Listen as Valerie shares why she uses the terms “still,” “chill,” and “thrill” when discussing the different segments of life, how the vibrations of music can shift energy, and what she does that is so unique and different when putting on a performance. Valerie also talks about having performers who do more than just show up; performers who are aware and more intentional about their performance. Valerie discusses what she likes to talk about when she coaches her band leaders and why to her every moment, every night is different, and it’s not just a show; it’s an interactive collaboration with everyone who is there. Valerie believes a home run when you have everyone on the dance floor and in a certain state of mind. Valerie believes we should all look at the gifts this time off has given us instead of focusing on the negatives. She discusses events’ potential to have more meaning and awareness once people can get out and enjoy them again, and where she thinks the industry will go once this pandemic is over.

The Wedding Biz – 335: A Conversation With: VALERIE ROMANOFF

Episode and Show Notes...
What does it really mean to only do work for those that care? To really be the best at what you do? To know your range and to stay there? To really know why you are trusted? Most important, what happens when you allow yourself to do the work you simply do not do well? It is about assumptions, bias and the refusal to believe in the power of your lane. Not everyone knows how to spend a million dollars well and let's talk about why that matters. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 40: Stay In Your Lane

Episode and Show Notes...
This is a revisit of Andy’s popular interview of David Tutera from May of 2018 with a new introduction.

The Wedding Biz – 334 REVISIT: DAVID TUTERA – Finding True Success in Self Reinvention

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy welcomes Laurie Arons back to The Next Level. Laurie is with Laurie Arons Special Events. She has been featured in numerous magazine publications and was listed in Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, and Martha Stewart Weddings as one of the top planners worldwide. Listen as they discuss how Erich got his start in photography and how important he feels it is to keep his passion for the art without getting lost in the business side, plus much more. Erich McVey is a wedding, portrait, and editorial film photographer with a love for medium format cameras, natural light, and incredible scenery. Erich was named by Harpers Bazaar, Brides, and Martha Stewart Weddings as one of the world’s best wedding photographers and twice selected as film Photographer of the Year.

The Wedding Biz – 333: LAURIE ARONS discusses ERICH MCVEY – Combining Documentary and Fine Art Style Photography

Episode and Show Notes...
“What I strive to do for every couple I shoot is to deliver variety, quality, and consistency throughout.” Listen as Andy and his guest Erich McVey discuss a variety of topics, including how he got started in photography and what he means by combining documentary and fine art styles when he shoots weddings plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Erich is a wedding, portrait, and editorial film photographer with a love for medium format cameras, natural light, and incredible scenery. Erich was named by Harpers Bazaar, Brides, and Martha Stewart Weddings as one of the world’s best wedding photographers and twice selected as film Photographer of the Year.

The Wedding Biz – 332: ERICH MCVEY – Combining Documentary and Fine Art Style Photography

Episode and Show Notes...
Creative business is literally about creating a world that has never existed. To imagine. Too often though we get trapped into the curse of knowledge, and lose the humility to know that you do not know. History has shown that failure to imagine the future is the curse of intelligence and the demise of the well intended. For creative business, it is the road to commodification and irrelevance. So let's talk about how to avoid tunnel vision. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 39: Imagining The Future

Episode and Show Notes...
Climb inside Preston's mind as he is joined by someone who knows him best--his long-time therapist, Peter Azrak. Peter is a psychotherapist in private practice in New York City who specializes in bridging the gap between mental health and spirituality. Having earned Master's degrees in Religious Studies and Social Work, Peter has helped Preston through many of his life's twists, turns, ups, and downs. On this episode, Preston and Peter open up about why people seek therapy. Why do we wrap so much of our self worth into money? And, how do we go from being a creature of habit to a creature of change? They explore it all, including addiction, the drive for perfectionism, and how faith affects your outlook on one's mistakes and challenges. Listen in....

Stop and Smell the Roses – 3: Preston’s Therapist Peter Azrak on the Intersection of Addiction, Faith, and Success, Presented by FMI Farms

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy welcomes Phil Van Nostrand back to The Next Level. Phil is based out of New York and Los Angeles. Phil photographs weddings, commercial, and lifestyle projects and is an expert at capturing bright cinematic lifestyle imagery. Listen as they discuss Josh Spiegel, the Creative Director and President of Birch Event Design, a high-end decor, production, and floral company. Phil speaks about a support group of industry professionals that Josh is a part of during the shutdown and how he himself created his own network of people to reach out to. Phil also talks about the challenge Josh had to create something different for each event while planning daily weddings within the same group of individuals. Phil discusses how Josh used social media to garner business during the pandemic while staying safe by doing smaller events, having the host testing each guest, and social distancing. Phil agrees with Josh that the smaller events will carry over because people see the beauty in creating an experience for their guests and being able to connect on a deeper level. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 331: PHIL VAN NOSTRAND discusses JOSH SPIEGEL – Using Social Media to Create Business During the Pandemic

Episode and Show Notes...
Art does not see color or sex, clients do though. As with all things creative, how can the business story compel your art to move beyond bias? To do that though you will need to allow conversations to happen as you see them and remove the

The Business of Being Creative – 38: Gender and Race

Episode and Show Notes...
On this episode of The Wedding Biz Andy is talking to Josh Spiegel, the Creative Director and President of Birch Event Design, a high-end decor, production, and floral company located out of the New York City area. Josh has had a lot of business during the pandemic and shares the story of how he is accomplishing that feat. Josh also talks sincerely about many issues, especially how he is dealing with things now and how he feels the event industry might be different once it fully comes back. Josh also shares how he got into the event industry and the challenge of creating different designs for the same group of people, sometimes every day. Josh talks about how he failed and learned in the early years of his business and how his business has thrived over the years. Listen as Josh discusses his process from the first contact with a client through the event and what he did during the pandemic that has kept him and his team busy. Josh is also very open about the deep depression he fell into in the early months of the pandemic and what brought him out and gave him focus as the crisis continued. Josh speaks about social media and how he uses it to grow his business and what he believes will change in the event industry post-pandemic. He also shares what he has learned during COVID that he believes will carry over and what the hardest part of the past year has been. Andy wraps up the interview by asking Josh how he defines success.

The Wedding Biz – 330: JOSH SPIEGEL/Birch Event Design – Using Social Media to Create Business During the Pandemic

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy has the funny and forthcoming Ron Ben-Israel on the show today. Listen as they discuss the second season for his new show, The Big Bake, and his new venture called RBI Treats. We also talk about how the pandemic has impacted both his business and personal life, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Ron is the Founder of Ron Ben-Israel Cakes. In addition to creating stunning and delectable cakes, he hosted the cooking competition TV show Sweet Genius from 2011 to 2013, and was a judge on Food Network’s Cake Wars. He now has a new television show called The Big Bake on Food Network, Canada. Listen, as Ron discusses how the pandemic has affected his business and how he has kept himself busy and continued to create. Ron talks about his Instagram (IGTV) show called Cake Talk and how he believes it helped him exercise his creativity and get back to work. Ron also shares about his television show, the Big Bake, and talks about the judges who are on the show with him. Have you always wanted to try Ron’s amazing desserts? Ron speaks about RBI Treats, the new retail division of RBI Cakes. He shares how it got started, the challenges of selling online, shipping to customers, and how much fun he had deciding what to sell and how to package it. Check out his website for RBI Treats, www.RBITreats.com, and start taste testing. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 329: A Conversation With: TARA GUERARD

Episode and Show Notes...
All creative businesses are in the information business. You are provided information -- what is the project, you provide information and then you act on that information. How you handle the flow of information is what makes your creative business go. The real question then is where do you fall on the Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan spectrum? Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 37: The Information Business – Responsibility And Authority

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy has the funny and forthcoming Ron Ben-Israel on the show today. Listen as they discuss the second season for his new show, The Big Bake, and his new venture called RBI Treats. We also talk about how the pandemic has impacted both his business and personal life, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Ron is the Founder of Ron Ben-Israel Cakes. In addition to creating stunning and delectable cakes, he hosted the cooking competition TV show Sweet Genius from 2011 to 2013, and was a judge on Food Network’s Cake Wars. He now has a new television show called The Big Bake on Food Network, Canada. Listen, as Ron discusses how the pandemic has affected his business and how he has kept himself busy and continued to create. Ron talks about his Instagram (IGTV) show called Cake Talk and how he believes it helped him exercise his creativity and get back to work. Ron also shares about his television show, the Big Bake, and talks about the judges who are on the show with him. Have you always wanted to try Ron’s amazing desserts? Ron speaks about RBI Treats, the new retail division of RBI Cakes. He shares how it got started, the challenges of selling online, shipping to customers, and how much fun he had deciding what to sell and how to package it. Check out his website for RBI Treats, www.RBITreats.com, and start taste testing. Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don’t forget about Sean Low’s podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.

The Wedding Biz – 328: A Conversation With: RON BEN-ISRAEL

Episode and Show Notes...
Join Preston as he invites his very first guest and longtime friend, Marcy Blum! Marcy is a New York City-based wedding and event planner. Sought after internationally, she has over 30 years of experience crafting events with sanity, humor, innovation, and style. Marcy creates events that stimulate the senses and awe guests with an attention to detail and flair for the unimaginable, while creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for clients. She has certainly earned being named one of the best planners in the world by various reputable publications, including Vogue, Weddings Magazine, Bazaar, and The New York Times Magazine. On this episode, Marcy and Preston get VERY personal, as they discuss how they have dealt with jealousy, keeping it real with others, and politics. Listen in....

Stop and Smell the Roses – 2: Marcy Blum on Success Through Vulnerability, Presented by FMI Farms

Episode and Show Notes...
“You go through that process of wait; this is going to be ok; we will just wear masks, be safe, have good attitudes, and try to remain positive, and then it’s like, wait, this is not going away soon.” Listen as Andy and his guest Ceci Johnson have a heart to heart conversation about the impact of COVID and how she feels like she is starting over again even though her business is seventeen years old, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Ceci is the Founder of Ceci New York, and now Ceci Palm Beach, which creates luxury invitations and custom design stationery and also has a beautiful online collection for home and gifts and she has also established exclusive partnerships and launched a lifestyle magazine called CeciStyle.com. Ceci’s clients include past presidents, The Ritz, Sean Diddy Combs, International royalty, Katherine Heigl, Hugo Boss, and so many more.

The Wedding Biz – 327: A Conversation With: NIKKI KHAN

Episode and Show Notes...
To be successful in creative business, you have to get paid for your talent, wisdom and experience. But what does that mean? In fact, what does each of talent, wisdom and experience mean? And why do they need to go together with the glue of resilience, conviction and faith? The answer is in the question, Is it art or the creation of art?

The Business of Being Creative – 36: Talent, Wisdom and Experience

Episode and Show Notes...
“You go through that process of wait; this is going to be ok; we will just wear masks, be safe, have good attitudes, and try to remain positive, and then it’s like, wait, this is not going away soon.” Listen as Andy and his guest Ceci Johnson have a heart to heart conversation about the impact of COVID and how she feels like she is starting over again even though her business is seventeen years old, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Ceci is the Founder of Ceci New York, and now Ceci Palm Beach, which creates luxury invitations and custom design stationery and also has a beautiful online collection for home and gifts and she has also established exclusive partnerships and launched a lifestyle magazine called CeciStyle.com. Ceci’s clients include past presidents, The Ritz, Sean Diddy Combs, International royalty, Katherine Heigl, Hugo Boss, and so many more.

The Wedding Biz – 326: A Conversation With: CECI JOHNSON

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy welcomes Valerie Gernhauser back to The Next Level. Valerie is the Owner, Planner, and Designer with Sapphire Events working worldwide out of New Orleans. Listen as they discuss Matthew Myhrum’s definition of what he does and the events Valerie has worked on with Matthew, plus much more. Matthew is the Founder of Matthew Myhrum Event Visualization, where they provide concept renderings, design drawings, and production design services for event professionals. Matthew shares that they essentially communicate design not only for his clients who are event planners and designers but also to be able to sell their concepts to their clients more effectively and help them with their design process in telling a story. Listen, as Valerie shares that for her, design isn’t just decor; it involves constant innovation, and hiring Matthew allows her to show her clients exactly what the design will look like. Valerie tells a story of a wedding she worked on with Matthew to create a 360-degree presentation with a virtual reality headset and the reaction she got from her clients. Valerie discusses the small nuances and details that Matthew puts in his presentation and how these elevate the level of reality for the client. Valerie also speaks about the importance of lighting and how it can be manipulated in Matthew’s presentation to create the look that will be achieved with her design. Valerie believes that in time Matthew will figure out how to add taste and smell to his presentations to elevate the client’s experience.

The Wedding Biz – 325: VALERIE GERNHAUSER discusses MATTHEW MYHRUM – Event Visualization & Communicating Design

Episode and Show Notes...
he story of your art and your business are not the same but they rely on each other. The key components of story is trust, tension and resolution. How you hold each component is what sets the path for your success as both an artist and a business. The real question is that if I scratched your name off of your contract would I know it is you?

The Business of Being Creative – 35: Storytelling

Episode and Show Notes...
“I love creating an amazing soundtrack for a ceremony.” Listen as Andy and his guest Marianne Bennett, the Founder, and CEO of Element Music, a very successful music and entertainment company in the event industry out of New York City, discusses why she believes that music should be scored to tell a story, how someone at the top of the industry handles her business and brings creativity to what she does plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Marianne shares how she gets to know her clients and discovers the music that makes them feel something. She says that knowing a client’s favorite songs isn’t enough; you need to know how they want to feel during the event. Marianne also takes us through her interview process when she meets clients for the first time to determine their relationship with music. Listen, as Marianne discusses why she believes that music should score a ceremony, as well as other segments of the celebration, and tell the story of the couple at their wedding. The decor, along with the music, set the tone for an event and make the experience special for the guests from the minute they walk in the door. Marianne also describes what she thinks is the hardest part of what she does overall. Marianne believes it is possible to love the business side and still be an amazing creative. To balance both, you need to learn to look at business creatively and marry the two together because you can’t be a successful creative if you don’t make sure business is being taken care of.

The Wedding Biz – 324: MATTHEW MYHRUM/Rendering Artist – Event Visualization & Communicating Design

Episode and Show Notes...
Lifestyle and event design expert, Preston Bailey, is so excited to launch his podcast, Stop And Smell The Roses! Having worked with a variety of high-profile clients all over the world (including Oprah, Eva Longoria, Isaac Mizrahi, and Martha Stewart), Preston LOVES making his clients’ visions come to life in ways they never imagined--and, now he is sharing the magic behind that spirit through his new show! He's joined on his first episode by his producer, Andy Kushner, owner of The Wedding Biz Network and Host of his own podcast, The Wedding Biz. Preston and Andy talk about what you can expect from Stop And Smell The Roses and all the opportunities the show will bring YOU to gain more access to Preston and his wellspring of knowledge. Today's episode is presented by FMI Farms. Listen in...

Stop and Smell the Roses – 1: Welcome to Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey, Presented by FMI Farms

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy welcomes Carrie Goldberg back to The Next Level. Carrie is the Digital Travel & Weddings Editor at Harpers Bazaar, where she oversees all things bridal, weddings, and travel for HarpersBazaar.com. Listen as they discuss how who has the most input in weddings has changed, why Alex doesn’t advertise and how he maintains his client’s privacy by taking people’s phones at high-profile events, plus much more. Alex is the Managing Director of Fait Accompli out of London, which organizes, plans and designs spectacular events worldwide from A-list to Royal weddings. He is also responsible for the wedding celebration of Ellie Goulding and weddings for the Royal family, including Prince William and Katherine the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and Prince Harry and Megan the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Listen as Carrie speaks about the weddings Alex designs, the glamping wedding he planned on the grounds of a medieval castle, and how his discretion has earned him the high-profile weddings others seek. They discuss the challenge of keeping guests engaged, with or without their phones, and how 2020 has shown where people place their worth in business and life. Are you a creative who wants to turn your craft into a business or take it further? Head to the Wedding Biz Network and listen to The Business of Being Creative podcast with Sean Low. Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more.

The Wedding Biz – 323: SEAN LOW discusses MARIANNE BENNETT – Scoring Music To Tell A Story

Episode and Show Notes...
Transparency is not Saran Wrap. It is being secure in what you charge and then knowing how you are going to earn it. As clients get smarter, value is not about being relative to competition, it is about knowing what you earn and when. Let's talk bananas. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 34: Value Delivery

Episode and Show Notes...
“I love creating an amazing soundtrack for a ceremony.” Listen as Andy and his guest Marianne Bennett, the Founder, and CEO of Element Music, a very successful music and entertainment company in the event industry out of New York City, discusses why she believes that music should be scored to tell a story, how someone at the top of the industry handles her business and brings creativity to what she does plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Marianne shares how she gets to know her clients and discovers the music that makes them feel something. She says that knowing a client’s favorite songs isn’t enough; you need to know how they want to feel during the event. Marianne also takes us through her interview process when she meets clients for the first time to determine their relationship with music. Listen, as Marianne discusses why she believes that music should score a ceremony, as well as other segments of the celebration, and tell the story of the couple at their wedding. The decor, along with the music, set the tone for an event and make the experience special for the guests from the minute they walk in the door. Marianne also describes what she thinks is the hardest part of what she does overall. Marianne believes it is possible to love the business side and still be an amazing creative. To balance both, you need to learn to look at business creatively and marry the two together because you can’t be a successful creative if you don’t make sure business is being taken care of.

The Wedding Biz – 322: MARIANNE BENNETT – Scoring Music To Tell A Story

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy is excited for this special episode with floral and event designer Preston Bailey. Listen as they discuss how Preston is handling the pandemic both personally and professionally, what he’s learned about himself, and how he’s using the slow down to further his path both personally and in the industry. Preston also has a big announcement he is sharing with us, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Preston shares how he is handling the pandemic and what he has learned during 2020. Preston discusses how he thinks the event industry will change once the pandemic has been eradicated. He believes that event professionals will need to become better salespeople because consumers will want more value for their money. Preston is hosting his own podcast called Stop and Smell the Roses! Listen as he shares why this is a dream come true and the content listeners can expect to hear. Preston also speaks about his segment called Dear Preston, where he will answer listeners’ questions live on air. His podcast will air every other Thursday starting January 14th on The Wedding Biz Network. See you there!

The Wedding Biz – 321: PRESTON BAILEY’S Big Announcement!

Episode and Show Notes...
Delivering Happiness shows what it means to change thinking and to solve a different problem. It also shows the power of scarcity, relationship and purpose. Zappo's is the story that resonates louder today than ever. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 33: Race To The Top

Episode and Show Notes...
Are you ready for something a little different? Andy is being interviewed by his good friend Jennifer Stein, the Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Destination I Do Magazine. Listen, as Andy gets a little personal and allows us to see a side of him that maybe we’ve never seen before as they discuss the craziness that was the year 2020, what he wants to change in the future and the plans he has for 2021 all on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Andy shares how the pandemic has affected his life professionally in both negative and positive ways. He talks about the biggest thing he has learned during 2020, launching The Wedding Biz Network, a new podcast he launched called The Music Makers, and some exciting things that will be announced on The Next Level on Wednesday, January 6th.

The Wedding Biz – 320: Andy’s Reflections on 2020 with Jennifer Stein

Episode and Show Notes...
REVISIT: On today’s show we hear from Ines and Veronica of Ines Di Santo, a bridal and evening gown couture dress designer. We learn how Ines grew up with the deep creative passion to having her business now.

The Wedding Biz – 319 REVISIT: Ines and Veronica Di Santo – Bridal Couture Brilliance

Episode and Show Notes...

The Wedding Biz – 318: TONY CRESPO/FMI Farms – Innovative National Floral Wholesaler

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy welcomes Carrie Goldberg back to The Next Level. Carrie is the Digital Travel & Weddings Editor at Harpers Bazaar, where she oversees all things bridal, weddings, and travel for HarpersBazaar.com. Listen as they discuss how who has the most input in weddings has changed, why Alex doesn’t advertise and how he maintains his client’s privacy by taking people’s phones at high-profile events, plus much more. Alex is the Managing Director of Fait Accompli out of London, which organizes, plans and designs spectacular events worldwide from A-list to Royal weddings. He is also responsible for the wedding celebration of Ellie Goulding and weddings for the Royal family, including Prince William and Katherine the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and Prince Harry and Megan the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Listen as Carrie speaks about the weddings Alex designs, the glamping wedding he planned on the grounds of a medieval castle, and how his discretion has earned him the high-profile weddings others seek. They discuss the challenge of keeping guests engaged, with or without their phones, and how 2020 has shown where people place their worth in business and life. Are you a creative who wants to turn your craft into a business or take it further? Head to the Wedding Biz Network and listen to The Business of Being Creative podcast with Sean Low. Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more.

The Wedding Biz – 317: CARRIE GOLDBERG discusses ALEX FITZGIBBONS: Orchestrating The Life And Soul Of A Wedding

Episode and Show Notes...

The Wedding Biz – 316: ALEX FITZGIBBONS – Orchestrating The Life And Soul Of A Wedding

Episode and Show Notes...
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 has a podcast called CONFETTI. Majeda Bisharat and Sewar of MY Event Design, based in Jordan, cover events across the Middle East and Europe. MY Event Design is a full-fledged luxury event design, planning, and management company that has designed and planned events for influential figures in various industries and members of the Royal family. Jennifer discusses the natural gifts that she believes people in the event industry are blessed with, how Majeda gets her inspiration from everywhere, and how great it is that Majeda and Sewar have a multigenerational approach to events that have served them well. Jennifer also talks about what Majeda said about Sewar’s engagement party. Listen as Jennifer shares how vulnerable and upfront Majeda was when she said she is in a state of confusion when it comes to dealing with the pandemic and how she took that confusion and turned it into a new company called MY Tablescape so that everyone can rent the luxurious accessories they need to make any occasion special.

The Wedding Biz – 315: JENNIFER STEIN discusses MAJEDA & SEWAR BISHARAT/MY Event Design: Turning Vision Into Reality

Episode and Show Notes...
Delivering Happiness shows what it means to change thinking and to solve a different problem. It also shows the power of scarcity, relationship and purpose. Zappo's is the story that resonates louder today than ever. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 32: Risk, Vulnerability And Purpose

Episode and Show Notes...
“Majeda’s vision has no boundaries, so why should we as a company?” Listen as Andy and his guests Majeda & Sewar Bisharat with MY Event Design, based in Amman Jordan and working all over the world, discuss Majeda’s passion for fashion and the transition to event design and how Sewar wanted to get experience in the corporate world before she joined her mother’s company plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz.

The Wedding Biz – 314: SEWAR BISHARAT/MY Event Design: Turning Vision Into Reality

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy’s guest co-host today is Julie Savage. Julie is the Founder and Creative Director of Strawberry Milk Events, who has planned and designed celebrations worldwide. Listen as they discuss how impressive it was that Caleb launched his business at 16 and filmed 40 weddings his first year, and his insights into developing relationships with his creative partners, plus much more on this episode of The Next Level. Caleb is a brilliant filmmaker and the owner of East West Production, a full-service event filmmaking company with award-winning coverage. Caleb’s work has been showcased in publications such as People’s Magazine, particularly for shooting Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra’s wedding. He has also been featured in Vogue, Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides Magazine, and Harpers Bazaar named Caleb as one of the world’s top filmmakers. Julie discusses how she matches her clients with creative partners like Caleb, the process they go through from there, and how it’s a learning curve to know that you are not the right person for everyone and that Caleb seemed to learn that much earlier in his career than most. Andy and Julie share how Caleb writes a storyline, to follow when editing, and how he believes when working commercially, it’s not about the product as much as it is about the emotion behind the product and how to make that happen in a minute or less. Julie speaks about Caleb’s genuine team player attitude and how he is known for always helping creative partners where he can and how that keeps him top of mind when recommending a filmmaker to clients.

The Wedding Biz – 313: JULIE SAVAGE discusses CALEB JORDAN LEE, Filmmaker Extraordinaire!

Episode and Show Notes...
Delivering Happiness shows what it means to change thinking and to solve a different problem. It also shows the power of scarcity, relationship and purpose. Zappo's is the story that resonates louder today than ever. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 31: Tony Hsieh’s Legacy

Episode and Show Notes...
Caleb is a brilliant filmmaker and the owner of East West Production, a full-service event filmmaking company with award-winning coverage. Caleb’s work has been showcased in publications such as People’s Magazine, particularly for shooting Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra’s wedding. He has also been featured in Vogue, Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides Magazine, and Harpers Bazaar named Caleb as one of the world’s top filmmakers.

The Wedding Biz – 312: CALEB JORDAN LEE – Filmmaker Extraordinaire!

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy's guest co-host today is Jennifer Stein, the Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief at Destination I Do Magazine, which can be found in newsstands in all 50 states and 12 countries. She also has a wonderful daily online blog, consults, and custom publishes. Listen as they discuss Morgan's view on elopement weddings, smaller events, and whether that trend will continue going forward, plus much more on this episode of The Next Level.

The Wedding Biz – 311: JENNIFER STEIN discusses MORGAN CHILDS, Micro-Weddings Are Here To Stay

Episode and Show Notes...
Remind yourself why you do what you do. You create joy and you do it with intention. When things go awry it is all too often because the singular purpose has been misformed by ego, by manipulation and by a loss of connection. Finding your way back means two things: tantrums and foundation. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 30: Create Joy

Episode and Show Notes...
“The biggest success for me with dealing with clients is that I have never forgotten that I am the hired help.” Andy has Monte Durham as his guest on this episode of The Wedding Biz with the audio portion of a video interview he conducted on Zoom for the WeddingMBA Conference that just occurred. Andy first interviewed Monte back in April on episode 250, and it’s a pleasure to have him back for a follow-up interview.

The Wedding Biz – 310: MORGAN CHILDS – Micro-Weddings Are Here To Stay

Episode and Show Notes...
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.

The Wedding Biz – 309 REVISIT: DAVID MONN PART 2 – Acumen in the Business of Events

Episode and Show Notes...
You would not think an operations management book would be so critical to the success of a creative business. After all creative businesses do not produce widgets. Process is process though and if you are not appreciating bottlenecks and motion, you will likely invest in the wrong solution. Enter Herbie and the cub scout hike. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 29: Understanding Herbie And The Importance Of The Theory Of Constraints To Creative Business

Episode and Show Notes...
David’s fascinating career trajectory involved finally realizing his calling was in event planning and design. His use of authenticity, scale, and attention to detail along with igniting the senses of smell, sound, and sight have made him an industry leader and one of the most highly sought-after event planners/designers in the world. His goal is to craft an event that shares your true story and personality, not the fantasy that you’ve created for yourself.

The Wedding Biz – 308 REVISIT: DAVID MONN PART 1 – Aligning the Senses To Create The Ultimate Event

Episode and Show Notes...
“I believe there are no better problem solvers in the world than special event professionals.” Andy is excited to have David Beahm and Christina Matteucci back on the show. David is a popular event designer based in New York City, working worldwide, and Christina is crucial to David’s business as she is his Executive Director. Both have been on the show multiple times and are informative and enjoyable each and every time.

The Wedding Biz – 307: A Conversation With: DAVID BEAHM & CHRISTINA MATTEUCCI

Episode and Show Notes...
Great clients are made not born. The better you define your process and what is expected of them and your creative business, the better the experience will be for everyone. That said, there are three overarching characteristics that help define clients and allow for true alignment: Motion In Fear, Resolute Decision Making and Patronage. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 28: What Makes A Great Client

Episode and Show Notes...
“The biggest success for me with dealing with clients is that I have never forgotten that I am the hired help.” Andy has Monte Durham as his guest on this episode of The Wedding Biz with the audio portion of a video interview he conducted on Zoom for the WeddingMBA Conference that just occurred. Andy first interviewed Monte back in April on episode 250, and it’s a pleasure to have him back for a follow-up interview.

The Wedding Biz – 306: MONTE DURHAM – Service with Passion and Grace

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy’s guest co-host today is Alejandra Poupel from Alejandra Poupel Events out of Paris, catering to an international clientele including Chinese, Middle Eastern, Russian and American, all of whom have different expectations based on their cultural perspective. Listen as they discuss Rob’s idea of perfect simplicity, how he likes the natural beauty of flowers, and the royal events he has done, plus much more on this episode of The Next Level.

The Wedding Biz – 305: ALEJANDRA POUPEL discusses ROB VAN HELDEN, Perfect Simplicity and Floral Design for Royalty

Episode and Show Notes...
We all might say that we want to make real change, but the inertia to change is real. We hope that yesterday will carry us forward and doubling down on the old will prevail against the new. Let's talk about solar lamps in rural India, the Phoenix and the outliers of success. Listen in..

The Business of Being Creative – 27: Change Is Overwhelming

Episode and Show Notes...
Rob is the owner of Rob Van Helden Floral Design Limited out of London. His previous clientele include Nelson Mandela, Joe Malone, Elton John, the Beckham’s World Cup party, Alfred Dunhill and James Bond film premiers, and Royal weddings and events including Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie, and Princess Margaret’s 70th birthday among others.

The Wedding Biz – 304: ROB VAN HELDEN – Perfect Simplicity and Floral Design for Royalty

Episode and Show Notes...
Creative business is built on the microscopic. For so many creative businesses, the very idea of serving more than 500 customers in a year is silly. Most are built on less than 50. And yet we speak in platitudes and generalities not radical authenticity. We do it because we have framed the conversation in terms of fear and rejection. How about we consider being grateful as we shun the non-believers. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 26: Be Grateful: Shun The Non-Believers

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen, as Andy and his guests, Rime Arodaky and Greg Finck,discuss how the pandemic affected them personally and professionally, what they have been doing with their time and where they see the industry post-pandemic, plus so much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Rime is a popular gown and dress designer out of Paris, and her company is considered a “Bridal House For Rebel Goddesses and inspired by women who are unapologetically themselves.” Greg runs the business side of Rime’s company, as General Manager, and is also a wonderfully gifted and admired photographer.

The Wedding Biz – 303: A Conversation With: CHRISTIAN OTH

Episode and Show Notes...
Rachel Birthistle has worked to dominate the destination wedding industry in Lake Como, Italy, by translating her experience stitching together beautiful fashion designs into producing seamless events. Rachel and her team will take you on an educational journey through their first-hand experiences in a place that provides the most stunning backdrop imaginable for stylish event production. Listen in...

Welcome to Destined to Produce with Rachel Birthistle

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy’s guest co-host today is Maria Boustany, from Chateau Rweiss in Lebanon. Listen as they discuss the beauty of the Chateau, the weddings and events she has done with Yara Estephan, an extremely gifted planner and designer out of Beirut, and much more on this episode of The Next Level. Maria and Andy discuss the 3D renderings that Yara uses when designing weddings and how the finished product looks like she envisions. Maria describes the fun wedding Yara planned for the owners of a major ice cream brand at the Chateau and how the design reflected the couple to perfection.

The Wedding Biz – 302: KIM WISELEY discusses JOY PROCTOR The Essence of Design

Episode and Show Notes...
Most creative businesses are caught in the new client trap. They take on a project and then use the success of that project to get another (and another). Very little is ever offered to the great client to treat them better. It does not have to be this way. Let's talk about Soul Cycle and Peloton. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 25: Treating Great Customers Better

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The Wedding Biz – 301: JOY PROCTOR – The Essence of Design

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The Wedding Biz – 300: NANCY SHAFFER – The Live Events Coalition, Board President & Director

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Just like governments do not run like businesses, so too does creative businesses not look like other businesses. All too often what would be expected in business, is not true for creative business -- say the customer is always right, being hungry and scrappy always works and, of course, price matters above all else. Enter the intention/reception paradox. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 24: The Intention Reception Paradox

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The Wedding Biz – 299: ZUZU BIRKHOF/Photographer – Seeing The Moment Before Pushing The Button

Episode and Show Notes...
Andy’s guest co-host today is Maria Boustany, from Chateau Rweiss in Lebanon. Listen as they discuss the beauty of the Chateau, the weddings and events she has done with Yara Estephan, an extremely gifted planner and designer out of Beirut, and much more on this episode of The Next Level. Maria and Andy discuss the 3D renderings that Yara uses when designing weddings and how the finished product looks like she envisions. Maria describes the fun wedding Yara planned for the owners of a major ice cream brand at the Chateau and how the design reflected the couple to perfection.

The Wedding Biz – 298: MARIA BOUSTANY discusses YARA ESTEPHAN Planning and Designing in 3D Out Of Beirut

Episode and Show Notes...
All creative businesses are actually in the information and communication business far more than they are in the making stuff business. Understanding how communication tools have grown -- from hieroglyphics to Zoom is critical to recognize the future that awaits for creative business. A quick trip through the past century of communication tools is a great place to start. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 23: Communication And Evolving Clarity Of Expression

Episode and Show Notes...
Yara shares her process for planning and designing weddings, and describes some major weddings that she has created. She talks about how she comes up with the amazing designs she is known for and how the pandemic is affecting her business. Yara also speaks about how the small intimate weddings, that are trending, have affected her design concepts.

The Wedding Biz – 297: YARA ESTEPHAN – Planning And Designing In 3D Out Of Beirut

Episode and Show Notes...
Clay Dunn is the Chief Executive Officer of VOW To End Child Marriage, a nonprofit that mobilizes the multi-billion dollar wedding industry in support of ending child marriage and empowering girls around the world to choose their own futures. Prior to VOW, Clay held roles with No Kid Hungry, National Geographic and the City of New York. Amongst other topics, Clay tells Andy about VOW Pro - a network of passionate wedding professionals helping to give girls a voice and a choice.

The Wedding Biz – 296: CLAY DUNN: CEO of VOW To End Child Marriage

Episode and Show Notes...
Listen, as Andy and his guests, Rime Arodaky and Greg Finck,discuss how the pandemic affected them personally and professionally, what they have been doing with their time and where they see the industry post-pandemic, plus so much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz. Rime is a popular gown and dress designer out of Paris, and her company is considered a “Bridal House For Rebel Goddesses and inspired by women who are unapologetically themselves.” Greg runs the business side of Rime’s company, as General Manager, and is also a wonderfully gifted and admired photographer.

The Wedding Biz – 295: A Conversation With: Rime Arodaky & Greg Finck

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Why are clients choosing you, your art and your creative business? Price? Past work? What does it mean to you and how does it impact how your run your business? It really is a conversation about chameleons and totem poles. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 22: The Psychology Of Choice

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Contracts are the lifeblood of any business, creative business especially. And yet 99 times out of a 100, they are gobbledy gook that you paid a lawyer to write for you in a way that protects you but does little to define the relationship your business will have with your client. It does not have to be that way. Enter the Trip Tik.

The Business of Being Creative – 21: Contracts, Contracts, Contracts

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Do you know how to have a responsibly sourced wedding? Listen, as Andy and his guests Amanda Hearst and Micaela Erlanger discuss their process of working together to style Amanda’s outfits and jewelry for her extended wedding weekend and the aspects of sustainability that were considered and incorporated. Amanda makes an exciting announcement at the end of the show about a new product line and so much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz.

The Wedding Biz – 294: AMANDA HEARST & MICAELA ERLANGER: Gowns, Jewelry, Sustainability and a Fairytale Wedding

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Listen as Robert and Andy share how JoAnn was a wedding crasher in her twenties because she loved love, how JoAnn took classes in every aspect of an event so she could talk to her creative partners in their language and her insights into getting to know every generation so she could market to them all in a way they would respond to.

The Wedding Biz – 293: SOFIA CROKOS discusses LEWIS MILLER The “Banksy of Floral Design”

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Managing the client experience is a singular challenge for every creative business. For the most part, projects are for an extended period of time with many ups and downs both for activity and emotion. The key to success is vision and grit. It is also a deep understanding of sunk costs. Enter the story of Graham Sutherland's portrait of Winston Churchill. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 20: Client Management, Sunk Costs, and Grit

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Lewis is a floral designer and founder of Lewis Miller Design out of New York City. His client list includes leading industry professionals in fashion, design, photography, art direction, and architecture such as Bulgari, Carolina Herrera, Mayor Blumberg, Chanel, Tiffany, Versace, Bergdorf Goodman, the Whitney Museum, and more.

The Wedding Biz – 292: LEWIS MILLER: The “Banksy of Floral Design”

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Listen as Cindy speaks about where she was when the pandemic hit, and how she immediately jumped on webinars with her clients at no charge to help them navigate the crisis. Cindy discusses some common issues she has been helping clients with and why she believes that non-stop communication with your clients and team is important. “You have to be in charge of your own destiny.” Not everyone is in the same boat; some industries are busier than they have ever been. Cindy shares what she tells people in the event industry about looking at an empty calendar and how you have to be flexible with your business model. “Never ever reduce your prices.” Listen, as Cindy says, that reducing your prices will take you five years to recover. Instead of lowering your rates, she says to take on more clients. Cindy also touches on the vaccine controversy and shares that she has gotten every available vaccine and will get the COVID-19 one when it is available. Cindy believes that you need to be humble if you have no clients and are in trouble financially, use what you know, and get a job. She believes that you need to do what’s necessary and remember this will pass. What a powerful and inspiring interview!

The Wedding Biz – 291: A Conversation With: CINDY NOVOTNY

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When we contemplate what is next, too often we want to be derivative of what has come before. Sure, we need to acknowledge the benefit of history, ultimately though we have to stretch beyond the realm of possible. Let's talk about the movie War Games. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 19: Erase The Box

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Andy has Laurie Arons on the show today to talk about how she is handling the pandemic personally and professionally, some events she has been lucky enough to have, and how she has stayed connected with her clients that rescheduled their events for next year, and much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz.

The Wedding Biz – 290: A Conversation With: LAURIE ARONS

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As we come to Fall, so many creative businesses are confronted with the challenge of whether it is worth it to keep going. There are no easy answers but there is a framework to think it all through. No story today, just straight talk. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 18: When Is It Time To Quit?

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Listen as Robert and Andy share how JoAnn was a wedding crasher in her twenties because she loved love, how JoAnn took classes in every aspect of an event so she could talk to her creative partners in their language and her insights into getting to know every generation so she could market to them all in a way they would respond to.

The Wedding Biz – 289: ABI MATESUN discusses ZAINAB ALSALIH/Carousel Events, One of Dubai’s Leading Women Entrepreneurs

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Who controls your fate as a creative business? How you do attract business without standing on the street corner and screaming? Who chooses you, helps you get chosen and what do you owe them when you do? What value gatekeepers? Let's talk Duncan Hines. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 17: Gatekeepers, Validators and Choosing Yourself

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Zainab is the Founder and Creative Director of Carousel Events out of Dubai, one of the region's best-known companies for event design. Zainab is also considered one of the most respected authorities on weddings in the middle east. She has been covered and quoted in countless regional and international programs and publications in various languages on radio, televisions, print, and online, including Harpers Bazaar, Martha Stewart, and Vogue. Listen as Zainab shares how she got started in event planning and the transition to weddings. She speaks about how young couples today are leaning toward less traditional weddings and more towards western influences. Zainab also discusses her process from the first time she meets the client until the actual wedding.

The Wedding Biz – 288 ZAINAB ALSALIH/Carousel Events: One of Dubai’s Leading Women Entrepreneurs

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Listen as Robert and Andy share how JoAnn was a wedding crasher in her twenties because she loved love, how JoAnn took classes in every aspect of an event so she could talk to her creative partners in their language and her insights into getting to know every generation so she could market to them all in a way they would respond to.

The Wedding Biz – 287: ROBERT SHERMAN discusses JOANN GREGOLI, The Godmother of Destination Weddings

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You tell two stories. The first is why we should believe in your work as an artist and the second is why we should believe the story of your business. The story of your art is ephemeral, your business grounded. Two voices that must each speak for you to be successful. Enter Frederick The Mouse. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 16: Storytelling

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JoAnn is the owner of Elegant Occasions by JoAnn Gregoli. She has been included in Modern Bride Magazine as one of their Top Trendsetters of the year and was recently recognized as one of the top twenty-five most influential wedding planners in the World. Elegant Occasions creates events that tell the story about the couple.

The Wedding Biz – 286: JOANN GREGOLI: The Godmother of Destination Weddings

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Andy is happy to have Carrie Goldberg back on the show to discuss how COVID-19 has affected her personally and professionally, what she is hearing from both brides and planners, and the challenges planners have with managing their clients' expectations, but also keeping them safe and socially distanced.

The Wedding Biz – 285: A Conversation With: CARRIE GOLDBERG

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Art is shaped and shapes culture. If you are in the business of creating art, what does that exactly mean for you? How are you to incorporate this responsibility into touchstones of your work? Defining a market is nothing new, but defining culture with the market? Getting paid to honor culture and shift it? That is new. Enter Loving v. Virginia, The Ivory Trade, and End of Life Services. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 15: Art And Culture At The Cross Roads

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The Wedding Biz – 284: A Conversation With: DAVID TUTERA

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Listen, as Andy and Michael chat about Lisa’s unique perspective on finding the intangible soul of an event, how important lighting is for an event, and Lisa’s preference for natural light. Michael shares how important Instagram is for showcasing your work and why he sometimes takes the unique approach of taking a picture with his phone at an event to see how his creations will look on Instagram, what a great idea!

The Wedding Biz – 283: ZAINAB ALSALIH discusses ABI MATESUN, Emmy-Winning Cinematographer, Filmmaker, Photographer & Speaker

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Every creative business has four transitions: Potential Client To Actual Client, Idea To Design, Design To Production, Production To Reveal. As with all one-way valves, if they are leaky, things are going to go afoot, often drastically so. Enter Diana Prince. Listen in…

The Business of Being Creative – 14: The Four Transitions That Define Creative Business

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Have you ever heard of the documentary style of wedding photography? Matt shares his process with his clients and how he gets the guys he photographs to relax for photos. Matt discusses how he became known as the Royal Photographer, his work with Ocean Culture Life, and with some charities that helps rescue children in India from child labor. Matt says he feels very blessed to live the life he has and he doesn’t take one moment for granted. During the pandemic, he put together a tutorial to help others navigate the world of photography. This was a very dynamic conversation that you won’t want to miss.

The Wedding Biz – 282: ABI MATESUN: Emmy-Winning Cinematographer, Filmmaker, Photographer & Speaker

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Listen, as Andy and Michael chat about Lisa’s unique perspective on finding the intangible soul of an event, how important lighting is for an event, and Lisa’s preference for natural light. Michael shares how important Instagram is for showcasing your work and why he sometimes takes the unique approach of taking a picture with his phone at an event to see how his creations will look on Instagram, what a great idea!

The Wedding Biz – 281: CARRIE GOLDBERG discusses ZAMEER KASSAM, Designing Fine Jewelry and Telling Love Stories

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Know your client. Are they beginners or enthusiastic amateurs? Meaning are they 1's or 5's? And where will you take them? If you cannot fully understand who you serve, you cannot serve them. Building your business to serve everyone means you serve noone. Let's talk knives. Listen in…

The Business of Being Creative – 13: Know Your Clients

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Have you ever heard of the documentary style of wedding photography? Matt shares his process with his clients and how he gets the guys he photographs to relax for photos. Matt discusses how he became known as the Royal Photographer, his work with Ocean Culture Life, and with some charities that helps rescue children in India from child labor. Matt says he feels very blessed to live the life he has and he doesn’t take one moment for granted. During the pandemic, he put together a tutorial to help others navigate the world of photography. This was a very dynamic conversation that you won’t want to miss.

The Wedding Biz – 280: ZAMEER KASSAM: Designing Fine Jewelry And Telling Love Stories

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Listen, as Andy and Michael chat about Lisa’s unique perspective on finding the intangible soul of an event, how important lighting is for an event, and Lisa’s preference for natural light. Michael shares how important Instagram is for showcasing your work and why he sometimes takes the unique approach of taking a picture with his phone at an event to see how his creations will look on Instagram, what a great idea!

The Wedding Biz – 279: MICHAEL RANTISSI discusses PHILIP CARR, Event Architect and Stylist

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Pricing is a fraught subject no matter the time. Through in a global pandemic and cultural upheaval in the United States and the rubber band stretches ever thinner. As with all things foundation is everything. What “it” costs is not the same thing as what you cost. Oh and cost is for toothpaste, investment is for art. Let’s talk Mercedes and leather seats and speaking of leather seats, let’s talk Bentley. Listen in…

The Business of Being Creative – 12: All Things Pricing

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Have you ever heard of the documentary style of wedding photography? Matt shares his process with his clients and how he gets the guys he photographs to relax for photos. Matt discusses how he became known as the Royal Photographer, his work with Ocean Culture Life, and with some charities that helps rescue children in India from child labor. Matt says he feels very blessed to live the life he has and he doesn’t take one moment for granted. During the pandemic, he put together a tutorial to help others navigate the world of photography. This was a very dynamic conversation that you won’t want to miss.

The Wedding Biz – 278: PHILIP CARR: Event Architect And Stylist

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Listen, as Andy and Michael chat about Lisa’s unique perspective on finding the intangible soul of an event, how important lighting is for an event, and Lisa’s preference for natural light. Michael shares how important Instagram is for showcasing your work and why he sometimes takes the unique approach of taking a picture with his phone at an event to see how his creations will look on Instagram, what a great idea!

The Wedding Biz – 277: JENNIFER STEIN discusses MATT PORTEOUS/Photographer: The Way He Sees The World

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Change is painful.  It just is.  Nobody wants to change, we are compelled to because we hope the future is brighter if we do.  For creative businesses, this is about telling a deeper story, not a better one.  To tell the deeper story, you need to know your community and the history of seatbelts in the U.S. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 11: Change, Community, Seatbelts And Storytelling

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Have you ever heard of the documentary style of wedding photography? Matt shares his process with his clients and how he gets the guys he photographs to relax for photos. Matt discusses how he became known as the Royal Photographer, his work with Ocean Culture Life, and with some charities that helps rescue children in India from child labor. Matt says he feels very blessed to live the life he has and he doesn’t take one moment for granted. During the pandemic, he put together a tutorial to help others navigate the world of photography. This was a very dynamic conversation that you won’t want to miss.

The Wedding Biz – 276: MATT PORTEOUS/Photographer: The Way He Sees The World

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Listen as Kunbi shares growing up in Nigeria and moving to Kansas at fifteen, why she got a business degree and then a law degree and how she got into the wedding industry by planning her two wedding celebrations. Kunbi blogged about her wedding as a way to stay in touch with her friends in Nigeria, and it turned into Perfete.

The Wedding Biz – 275: Forming An Event Coalition With Michelle Durpetti, Ali Phillips, Jeannette Tavares

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Emotional resonance is what separates you, the artist, from the rest of us.  While you have a gift at your craft, that is not why you are paid.  You are paid to be professional, to make us feel and to feel while not getting lost in the emotion of the moment. Simultaneously, engaged and removed from the situation.  Enter stillness, a flashlight and generosity.

The Business of Being Creative – 10: Work Smarter, Breathe Deeper, Have The Courage To Fail And The Conviction To Try Again

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Listen as Kunbi shares growing up in Nigeria and moving to Kansas at fifteen, why she got a business degree and then a law degree and how she got into the wedding industry by planning her two wedding celebrations. Kunbi blogged about her wedding as a way to stay in touch with her friends in Nigeria, and it turned into Perfete.

The Wedding Biz – 274: KUNBI ODUBOGUN – A Celebration of Life, The Perfete and Not So Perfete

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Emotional resonance is what separates you, the artist, from the rest of us.  While you have a gift at your craft, that is not why you are paid.  You are paid to be professional, to make us feel and to feel while not getting lost in the emotion of the moment. Simultaneously, engaged and removed from the situation.  Enter stillness, a flashlight and generosity.

The Business of Being Creative – 9: Design First, Judgment, Risk, A Placebo And Ralph Lifshitz From The Bronx

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Alex is the Founder and CEO of ALR Music based in London. Alex and his team of music and wedding specialists provide entertainment for over 450 luxury events around the world each year. With high profile clients ranging from rock n roll to British royalty, their exclusive roster, and unrivaled level of service and expertise has led to an impressive client list including the United States Ambassador to the UK, Simon Cowell, Google, Chanel and more.

The Wedding Biz – 273: ALEX LE ROUX – Designing Musical Entertainment In An Extraordinary Way

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In today's episode, Andy discusses life during the current pandemic, with Simon, and asks how he keeps up his motivation during the slow-down. Simon gives his perspective on pivoting, how to consider whether or not it's even necessary, and how he recommend we approach the concept. Simon also has a frank conversation with Andy sharing his thoughts about the issue of racial injustice, given the recent and on-going national protests. Andy asks Simon what he would advise young people of color consider in navigating this difficult and challenge issue in today's society. He also asks Simon how he recommend others think about and discuss the issue. Simon is a gifted talent and we are so happy to have him on the show again!

The Wedding Biz – 272: A Conversation with: Simon T. Bailey

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Faith is the courage of conviction. Faith is the prerequite to courage and integrity. Faith is facile and simultaneously hopeful and hopeless. Faith is what you need to see your creative business through. Enter the story of the swimming dog, Craigslist and letting kids have cake for breakfast. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 8: Emotional Resonance, Professionalism, Stillness, A Flashlight And Generosity

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The Wedding Biz – 271: NATALIE DENYSE – The Intangible Soul Of An Event

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Listen, as Andy and Michael chat about Lisa’s unique perspective on finding the intangible soul of an event, how important lighting is for an event, and Lisa’s preference for natural light. Michael shares how important Instagram is for showcasing your work and why he sometimes takes the unique approach of taking a picture with his phone at an event to see how his creations will look on Instagram, what a great idea!

The Wedding Biz – 270: MICHAEL UNCAPHER Discusses Lisa Vorce – The Intangible Soul of an Event

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The Wedding Biz – 269: LISA VORCE – The Intangible Soul Of An Event

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Faith is the courage of conviction. Faith is the prerequite to courage and integrity. Faith is facile and simultaneously hopeful and hopeless. Faith is what you need to see your creative business through. Enter the story of the swimming dog, Craigslist and letting kids have cake for breakfast. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 7: Faith And The Courage Of Conviction

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In today's release, Colin talks about what a typical day is like now, during the Covid-19 pandemic, and what he has learned about himself. He also talks about how his brand is diversified, working in hospitality outside of the event business, having launched a new division of his event planning and design business. Colin is currently working on his 11th book, which he tells us all about, as well as a television program of which he will give details another time. Colin also talks about how he is staying connected with future clients and how he's dealing with his team during this difficult time. We also discuss what the event industry will look like, in the future, and his suggestion for couples whose weddings have had to be postponed. Colin addresses how he'll run his event business, moving forward, and defines what true luxury is all about. This is not a conversation to be missed!

The Wedding Biz – 267: A Conversation With: COLIN COWIE

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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.

The Wedding Biz – 266: KATHI SHARPE-ROSS/Author of Re:Invent Your Life! What Are You Waiting For?

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In today's world, we are what we measure. We hear it all the time now -- data analysis, big data, consumer preferences, artificial intelligence and computer learning to show us what we see, feel and even touch. What does that mean for your creative business? Umm, everything. If experience is what you truly sell, then making sure that you define the success of that experience in your own iconic way is crucial. Enter metrics of success, the coffee table idea and Zappo's. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 6: Metrics Of Success, Community And Zappo’s

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I wanted to give floral designer Preston Bailey a platform to share his thoughts, given what is currently going on with the protests and increased public consciousness about race relations. As usual, Preston allows himself to be vulnerable and refreshingly direct. We touch on his personal experience, experiencing racism for the first time, when he moved to New York City from Panama at the age of 19. Preston also talks about his early and continued experiences, as a black man, working in the event industry. And he gives wonderful advice, to people of color, both in and out of events. Please enjoy this very special episode of A Conversation With: Preston Bailey.

The Wedding Biz – 265: PRESTON BAILEY: Racial Injustice, A Conversation!

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Today we are going to talk about the value of the subjective, the emotional component that is critical to the success of every creative business. It is knowing the difference between drawing birds and clouds and when you might share each. It is also knowing that the language of emotional and its return dwarfs anything rational. In the end, what it means is that you have to stop playing the game you are not very good at and start (or only) play the one you are. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 5: The Value Of The Subjective And Knowing If You Are Drawing Bird Or Clouds

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Constraints are nothing new. Creative businesses have always operated in a window. I have never met a designer who is perpetually free to create as she sees fit without regard to budget, style or even geography. The new reality we all find ourselves in is that a new constraint has been foisted on all of us. The price of every physical human interaction is now perpetually present. It means the intrinsic nature of art has become ever more indelible. Enter the underneath, an apple tree and horses for courses.

The Business of Being Creative – 4: New Constraints, The Underneath, An Apple Tree and Horses For Courses

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The Wedding Biz – 261: NEILLIE BUTLER: Delivering A Bride’s Vision & More!

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This is the first of a series of conversations, called

The Wedding Biz – 260: A Conversation With: Phil Van Nostrand

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“Bridal is inherently timeless.” Listen as Andy and his guest Micaela Erlanger discuss what she means by this and how the pandemic has affected timelines for the production of bridal gowns. Micaela also shares why she believes that designers will see a rise in demand for wedding dresses for the fall and much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz.

The Wedding Biz – 259: MICAELA ERLANGER: Wedding Gowns And Fashion Design During The Pandemic

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Every creative business takes a journey with and for its clients. The points along the way are its value. No doubt, the goal is inevitable if the journey is profound. In this episode, will will talk about the importance of value delivery, subjective and objective and getting paid what you need. The implications will result in the 3W's -- where were you, where are you and where are you going. Of course, there is a story to help. Let us talk about Sandals Resorts and Wonder Woman. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 3: Value Delivery, The Journey Is The Destination And Pricing From The Top Down

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What does the long tail, scarcity and niche have to do with your creative business? Umm, everything. Oh, and if you are not sure what the long tail, scarcity and niche even mean in this context, that is ok, I will just tell you the story of Blue Bottle Coffee and it will all make sense. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 2: The Power Of Niche, Scarcity and The Long Tail

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I am going to talk about a story that is near and dear to me. I have told this story and its importance to creative business many times. I have even told it at a college commencement speech I was so honored to give a few years ago. It is the story of Dick Fosbury and his path to winning the gold medal for the high jump in the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. You might say, huh? What does this have to do with my business? Well, close your eyes, jump over the bar backwards and lets find out if you will land safely. Listen in...

The Business of Being Creative – 1: Learn To Leap With Dick Fosbury

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“Advertising says hey I’m great, PR is when somebody else says you are great.” Listen as Andy and his guest Meghan Ely discuss what this means and how important it is to have the recognition if you are interested in being published. Meghan shares a simple formula that can help you get your name recognized with the media as an expert in your field.

The Wedding Biz – 258: MEGHAN ELY: PR, Getting Published And More!

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Thanks for finding The Business of Being Creative! I’m Sean Low, and I’ve been lending practical business advice to those in the business of being creative since the early 2000s, including accomplished notables such as Preston Bailey, Vicente Wolf, Nate Berkus, Sawyer Berson, Style Me Pretty, Marcy Blum, Michelle Rago, and Sylvia Weinstock--to name a few.

The Business of Being Creative – Welcome to the Business of Being Creative with Sean Low!

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Bill Bowen is the Founder and President of Suburban Video based out of Rockville, Maryland though he travels worldwide. Being able to look back and watch a video, that was so artfully created, is a gift that the rest of us can enjoy for the rest of our lives. Knowing how to capture all the precious moments, and the details that become so emotionally impactful, are what Bill is so gifted at doing. Join us today as we discover why Bill finds his job so satisfying and learn why it’s his heart that guides him. Prior to becoming a Videographer, Bill was a private investigator, so listening to his personal story is not only fascinating but also educational and inspirational.

The Wedding Biz: BILL BOWEN: Videography With Heart

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REVISIT: Rebecca Grinnals and Kathryn Arce are powerhouse team is the force behind the wedding and honeymoon industry consulting firm Engaging Concepts. In this episode, we talk about their road from their Disney Weddings days to their own Engage! Summits events.

The Wedding Biz 228: REVISIT: JOSE VILLA/Part 1 – Redefining Success with Fine Art Photography

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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.

The Wedding Biz – 207: THE NEXT LEVEL – SEAN LOW Discusses ROBERT SHERMAN/Washington Talent – Creating Happiness One Event at a Time and Forming A Partnership

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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.

The Wedding Biz – 206: ROBERT SHERMAN/Washington Talent – Delivering Happiness One Event at a Time and Forming A Partnership

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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.

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL – JENNIFER STEIN Discusses JOE GOLDBLATT – Event Industry Pioneer and Founder, ILEA & CSEP Program

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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.

The Wedding Biz: JOE GOLDBLATT – Event Industry Pioneer and Founder, ILEA & CSEP Program

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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.

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL – KIANA UNDERWOOD Discusses RACHEL BIRTHISTLE – The Lake Como Wedding Planner and Creating a Wedding with Contrasting Events

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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.

The Wedding Biz: RACHEL BIRTHISTLE – The Lake Como Wedding Planner and Creating a Wedding with Contrasting Events

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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. 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.

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL – JULIE NOVACK Discusses LE REVE FILMS – Fine Art Wedding Films Plus Networking and Social Media Tips!

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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.

The Wedding Biz: LE REVE FILMS – Fine Art Wedding Films Plus Networking and Social Media Tips!

Episode and Show Notes...
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. 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.

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL: JENNIFER STEIN Discusses AUDREY NERACOULIS – Emotional Photography And Authenticity In Business

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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.

The Wedding Biz: AUDREY NERACOULIS – Emotional Photography And Authenticity In Business

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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.

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL – SEAN LOW Discusses VANESSA KRECKEL – Brand Development to Set you Apart.

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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.

The Wedding Biz: VANESSA KRECKEL – Brand Development To Set You Apart

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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.

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL: LAURIE ARONS Discusses GREG FINCK – The Leap to Professional Fulfillment

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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.

The Wedding Biz: GREG FINCK/Photographer: The Leap to Professional Fulfillment

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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.

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL: SEAN LOW Discusses DAVID MONN – Acumen in the Business of Events.

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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.

The Wedding Biz: DAVID MONN PART 2: Acumen in the Business of Events

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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.

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL: SEAN LOW Discusses MICHAEL CERBELLI – The Hot List and the Ultimate in Event Creation

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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.

The Wedding Biz: MICHAEL CERBELLI: The Hot List and the Ultimate in Event Creation

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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.

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL: AUGUSTA COLE Discusses CHRISTINA MATTEUCCI – The Executive Director at David Beahm Experiences

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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.”

The Wedding Biz: CHRISTINA MATTEUCCI, Creating The Ultimate Collaborative Relationship Between #1s And Their #2’s

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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.

The Wedding Biz: CARRIE GOLDBERG: Travel & Weddings Director, Harpers Bazaar

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Andy is excited to welcome, Sean De Freitas, Founder of Designs by Sean an International award-winning full service event decor company specializing in both corporate and social events. Sean’s work has been recognized with over 35 industry awards and his designs are out of this world. In this episode, Sean chats about how he got started in design, his influences along the way, how a logistic mind is crucial and how lighting can make or break an event. Listen in as he tells a moving story about how getting to know his client led to making a father-daughter dance a moment they and none of their guests will ever forget.

The Wedding Biz – 176: SEAN DE FREITAS – From King of Carnival to King of Design

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In this episode of The Next Level, Andy Kushner and Tait Larson, co-founder of Style Me Pretty, discuss Tim Chi’s interview on the Wedding Biz. Tait and his wife Abby founded Style Me Pretty, sold it to AOL, and then took it back after AOL announced they were shutting it down. Tait has some fantastic insights to share on Tim’s interview and the future of the industry. Learn how Tait and Andy feel about Tim’s opinions on failure, courage, and entrepreneurship. They dig deep into their views on the role of failure, or obstacles, in building a business and a life. There were so many great tips and ideas shared on this episode. You won’t want to miss it!

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL: TAIT LARSON Discusses TIM CHI – CEO, The Knot Worldwide: Combining Technology and Trends to Innovate the Wedding Industry

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In this episode of The Wedding Biz, Andy Kushner interviews communications specialist, Liese Gardner, and unravels some of the industry secrets to mastering your marketing and expressing your brand.

The Wedding Biz – 148: Liese Gardner – Brand Therapy & Marketing With Heart

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REVISIT: Rebecca Grinnals and Kathryn Arce are powerhouse team is the force behind the wedding and honeymoon industry consulting firm Engaging Concepts. In this episode, we talk about their road from their Disney Weddings days to their own Engage! Summits events.

The Wedding Biz 147: REVISIT: EDWIN MCCAIN – His Hit Wedding Songs

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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.

The Wedding Biz – 146: THE NEXT LEVEL WITH HARMONY WALTON DISCUSSING JENNIFER STEIN, EDITOR IN CHIEF DESTINATION I DO MAGAZINE

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The only thing more magical than a destination wedding is putting it in print to share with the world. Today Jennifer Stein, Editor-In-Chief, Co-Founder, and publisher of Destination I Do Magazine, shares where she got her inspiration to begin her journey as a destination wedding specialist.

The Wedding Biz – 145: Jennifer Stein – Editor-In-Chief, Destination I Do Magazine

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Join Andy Kushner and guest co-host, Jennifer Stein, Editor-In-Chief of Destination I Do Magazine, in today’s episode of The Next Level! Today Andy and Jennifer discuss key topics from last week’s interview of event planner and designer, Rishi Patel, CEO of HMR Designs. Jennifer Stein is also the Co-Founder of Destination I Do Magazine, the premier magazine for Destination Weddings. It was Jennifer’s own desire to have a destination wedding that led her to the destination wedding industry!

The Wedding Biz – 144: THE NEXT LEVEL with JENNIFER STEIN Discussing RISHI PATEL, CEO of HMR Designs

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“Luxury does not come without service. Service is luxury.” Today, CEO of HMR Designs, Rishi Patel, talks about how service and luxury work cohesively to create astonishing events and a mutually fulfilling experience for the client and their designers. In this episode, Andy and Rishi focus on establishing connections, finding your position in life and in your career, and how to showcase your work. Join this week’s lighthearted and educational conversation on The Wedding Biz for tips on how you can catapult your career.

The Wedding Biz – 143: Rishi Patel – CEO of HMR Designs

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Welcome to another episode of The Next Level! This week Andy Kushner brings on another industry icon, Sean Low of The Business Of Being Creative, to discuss highlights from last week’s interview with Andre Wells. Andre is a high-end event planner and designer who incorporates his elegance and love for fashion into every event. Andy and Sean tackle topics such as how to break into the industry, how to project professionalism and individualism, and carrying the confidence that attracts clients. To hear more about how you can apply these simple but impactful strategies to your own business tune into this episode of The Next Level!

The Wedding Biz – 142: THE NEXT LEVEL with SEAN LOW Discussing ANDRE WELLS and Fashion-Forward Event Design & Planning

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Sometimes we have to go through a preparation period before we’re able to tackle our dreams head on. Today Andre Wells, event planner, designer, and fashion enthusiast, shares his own personal growth process and how it led him to create his own flourishing business.

The Wedding Biz – 141: Andre Wells – Fashion-Forward Event Design & Planning

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Today, Andy and guest host, Julie Sabatino of The Stylish Bride, discuss highlights from this week’s interview with Laurie Arons. Laurie is a talented, luxury event and wedding planner who previously shared many generous and thoughtful tips on how to build relationships, a social media platform, and your business. This episode breaks down and evaluates those tactics in a way that will help you implement them into your own business. Join Andy Kushner and Julie Sabatino on this episode of The Next Level.

The Wedding Biz – 140: THE NEXT LEVEL with JULIE SABATINO Discussing LAURIE ARONS and Fast-Tracking to the Luxe Level

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The Wedding Biz – 139: Laurie Arons – Fast-Tracking To The Lux Level

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Being able to create the perfect ambiance for a wedding or event that leaves a lasting impact is a skill that sometimes gets overlooked. In this episode, Shannon Leahy, this week’s guest co-host and one of the top wedding and event planners in the world according to Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides Magazine and Harper’s Bazaar, brings additional insight and wisdom to today’s conversation about Natasha Miller’s interview. Ranging from executing vision, channeling calm energy, and how to get in touch with your subconscious to live a more centered life, this podcast has something for everyone. Join Andy Kushner in this week’s inspiring episode of The Next Level.

The Wedding Biz – 138: THE NEXT LEVEL with SHANNON LEAHY Discussing NATASHA MILLER and Overcoming Adversity To Thrive

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Creativity can be sparked in a number of ways, but sometimes necessity is the best motivator. In today’s episode, Natasha Miller, President and CEO of Entire Productions, talks about how hardship in her youth drove her to create the empire she has today.

The Wedding Biz – 137: Natasha Miller – Overcoming Adversity To Thrive

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The Wedding Biz – 136: THE NEXT LEVEL with HARMONY WALTON Discussing COLIN COWIE and Creating Groundbreaking Luxury Experiences

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Weddings are compiled of moments, planning, and people who have invested their all into ensuring that the result is magical. Having someone along the way to capture those details is an investment you won’t regret. In today’s episode of The Next Level, Andy Kushner and Valerie Gernhauser, founder of Sapphire Events, discuss the valuable tips given by Bill Bowen in last Monday’s interview. Bill Bowen, founder of Suburban Video, is a videographer who has skillfully perfected the art of shooting weddings and events in a timeless manner. To hear more about Bill’s techniques and how you can apply tactical strategies to your business, regardless of whether or not you are a videographer, tune into this episode of The Next Level.

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL with VALERIE GERNHAUSER Discussing BILL BOWEN and Videography with Heart

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REVISIT: A hallmark of a world-class event designer like Matthew Robbins is to be able to gently lead clients from what they say they want to an event that represents the best of who they are. In our conversation, Matthew generously shares his process for creating events that resonate, and how he connects with clients to make that happen. We also talk about balancing work and personal lives, which gets especially interesting (and rewarding!) when your professional and life partner is the same person.

The Wedding Biz: REVISIT: COLIN COWIE – PART 1 CREATING GROUNDBREAKING LUXURY EXPERIENCES

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REVISIT: Lynn Easton is a busy woman. Between managing her destination wedding design business Easton Events and growing her Easton Porter Group luxury properties, she’s got a lot of balls in the air. But for her, that’s all just part of the fun. Lynn started her wedding planning career over twenty years ago almost by accident. She offered to help a friend plan and design her wedding, back before planners were really around. One wedding turned into another and another, and soon Lynn realized she had a true thriving business. But she wanted more; her beautiful designs were only being noticed regionally, and she was ready to go national, and even international. Lynn’s story is one of how to make it on the big stage, and her sage advice goes a long way in inspiring and educating others in the industry.

The Wedding Biz: REVISIT: Lynn Easton – Destination Weddings with a Classic Touch, Part 1

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REVISIT: Rebecca Grinnals and Kathryn Arce are powerhouse team is the force behind the wedding and honeymoon industry consulting firm Engaging Concepts. In this episode, we talk about their road from their Disney Weddings days to their own Engage! Summits events.

The Wedding Biz 113: REVISIT: SYLVIA WEINSTOCK – The Queen of Cakes

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Monica Byrne is a bridal designer with an exemplary portfolio, working with names such as Vera Wang. She has a passion for the creative experience behind every piece and fulfilling every bride’s vision.

The Stylish Bride 19: Monica Byrne on Custom Couture Dresses

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Andy and first-time co-host Cindy Novotny, of Master Connection Associates, discuss the incredible interview with David Stark. David opens up about his business and his business structure. David really does so many things in his business incredibly well.

The Wedding Biz – 111: THE NEXT LEVEL WITH CINDY NOVOTNY DISCUSSING DAVID STARK, CREATIVITY IN DESIGN, & CREATIVITY IN BUSINESS

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REVISIT: “You’re only as good as your last party.” This old adage is something that renowned event producer and designer David Stark holds in high regard. David has produced events for noteworthy celebrities like Glenn Close and Brad Pitt, organizations like Saturday Night live, the Whitney Museum, and the Metropolitan Opera, has 5 books published, and the list goes on in similar fashion.

The Wedding Biz: REVISIT: DAVID STARK – CREATIVITY IN DESIGN, CREATIVITY IN BUSINESS

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Is your wedding party located in different cities throughout the Country? Are you worried about having the same look for them, then today’s show is for you! Delivering what girls are asking for, and having them still feeling great the day of.

The Stylish Bride 18: Bella Bridesmaids

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The Wedding Biz – 110: THE NEXT LEVEL – PHILLIP VAN NOSTRAND – PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGNING YOUR LIFESTYLE

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Have you met someone wondering what do they wear this time around for a second marriage? It has become more common, and on Today’s show we will hear the best advice from experts that help guide you in the right direction of wearing what makes you feel great on your wedding day.

The Stylish Bride 17: What to Wear for a Second Wedding with Mark Ingram

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Ever have any regrets about your wedding day? On today’s show, it will be a little different than the past episodes. Julie is celebrating her 17th Wedding Anniversary! We will take a look back and see what really has changed with weddings in the past 17 years, and how a lot has stayed the same.

The Stylish Bride 16: What I’ve Learned About Marriage

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On today’s show, Julie talks with Giselle Ghofrani from Dress Doctor about dress fittings, and things to help if your dress ends up being too big. Some brides change weight as they plan their wedding due to stress, and some just want room to dance, and jump around. Either way, there are ways to have a great fitting dress that will hold its shape and not become unmanageable as the wedding goes on!

The Stylish Bride 15: What to do if Your Wedding Dress is Too Big

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Join Andy and his co-host, Melissa Fancy as they discuss the many unique aspects of Robert Fountain’s business that was discussed in the full interview. Robert isn’t worried about what anyone else is doing – he’s doing what he does best and being true to himself along the way.

The Wedding Biz – 105: THE NEXT LEVEL – Robert Fountain – Forging Your Own Path

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Have you ever felt the satisfaction of reorganizing the furniture in your home? Today’s guest, is quite familiar with that feeling, in fact, he’s been redesigning his spaces since he was young. Now a leader in event design, he stays under the radar with most events, but deserves a serious moment in the spotlight.

The Wedding Biz – 104: Robert Fountain – Forging Your Own Path

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Do you let stress get the best of you when it comes to having your photo taken? Today’s guest will help you navigate looking great in your photographs. As a fine art photographer, he is there to think for you and knows how to capture the perfect photos.

The Stylish Bride 14: How to Look Your Best in Your Wedding Photographs with Jose Villa

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In this episode, Andy and Melissa pull out their favorite parts of the Paula LeDuc interview. Paula was such a unique guest, and she’s done amazing things in her niche, so there was a lot of ground to cover.

The Wedding Biz – 103: THE NEXT LEVEL – Paula LeDuc: Fine Catering, Design, Emotion and Relationships

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Did you grow up knowing what you wanted to do with your life? Most people change their minds multiple times before they decide on their career. Today’s guest grew up always being creative, as her father was an engineer, building things. If you asked her then, she would not have an idea she would be where she is today.

The Wedding Biz – 102: Paula LeDuc: Fine Catering, Design, Emotion and Relationships

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Are you a bride who doesn’t want to sacrifice the experience of gown shopping for a designer gown, but also doesn’t want to spend too much on your wedding dress? On today’s show, we find out that you can still walk down the aisle in the perfect couture dress, without breaking the bank. Thanks to Ana and Jacquelyn for coming together and finding out there was a need in the wedding gown industry for pre-owned designer wedding gowns and providing this much needed service.

The Stylish Bride 13: Selling Your Wedding Dress and Buying a Pre-Owned Wedding Dress

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In today’s episode of THE NEXT LEVEL, Andy and guest co-host Sean Low really take a deep dive into the interview with the ladies behind the Oh So Inspired Conference. There’s a lot this duo covered in their interview about partnerships and creating live events that we haven’t had a chance to discuss with other guests.

The Wedding Biz – 101: THE NEXT LEVEL – Kelly McLeskey & Nancy Liu Chin – Oh So Inspired

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On today’s show, we hear from Kelly McLeskey-Dolata and Nancy Liu Chin, Co-Founders of Oh So Inspired. Each successful in their own right, Kelly in planning and Design with her own company, Savvy Event. Nancy, a floral designer with her company, Nancy Liu Chin Designs.

The Wedding Biz – 100: Kelly McLeskey & Nancy Liu Chin – Oh So Inspired

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If you’ve ever wondered just how far brides will go to have the perfect wedding dress, then today’s show is just for you! Styling a bride goes far beyond the dress choice and there’s no one more capable of sharing her best practices for building a successful business styling brides than Beth Chapman.

The Stylish Bride 12: Bridal Styling Secrets from a Boutique Owner with Beth Chapman

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In this episode of THE NEXT LEVEL, Andy and Melissa come together to dive into Andrè Maier’s interview. Andrè is a wedding photojournalist and his path to success has been anything but conventional.

The Wedding Biz – 99: THE NEXT LEVEL – Andrè Maier – Photography from the Heart

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Have you ever felt stifled by the exactness and predictability of your chosen career? Today’s guest spent years studying science, such as molecular biology and organic chemistry, all the while his creative side was calling. Eventually, he transitioned to photojournalism and found that he was really good at it, and more importantly, it fed his soul.

The Wedding Biz – 98: Andre Maier – Photography from the Heart

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On today’s show, Julie talks with Shelley Brown, the fashion editor of The Knot Magazine. We will get to hear all about what they saw at Bridal Market last week. Trends, things that Shelley loved, and all of the new designs brides need to pay attention to is what Julie and Shelley are discussing today!

The Stylish Bride 11: Bridal Market Trends with Shelley Brown of The Knot

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In this episode, Andy and Melissa discuss Andy’s interview with Jennifer Zabinski, of JZ Events. Jennifer’s interview presented so many tangible takeaways for other Designers, so listen in and learn the biggest takeaways from this episode.

The Wedding Biz – 97: THE NEXT LEVEL – Jennifer Zabinski – High Touch Planning

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This week’s episode features Jennifer Zabinski of JZ Events. Jennifer is a dedicated and talented wedding planner, known for being cool under pressure, great with communication and always looks out for the vendors while honoring the clients.

The Wedding Biz – 96: Jennifer Zabinski – High-Touch Planning

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We’re on the cusp of COUTURE NYC Bridal Market, and we have so much to talk about in preparation for the show. It’s Julie’s 27th market, and she still can’t wait for it to get started! On today’s show, Julie talks with Alexandra Macon from Over the Moon. We get to hear how her career got started to how Alexandra built Over the Moon. Alexandra shares with us her favorite bridal fashion trends and what she hopes to see more of at the Market!

The Stylish Bride 10: Everything Bridal Market with Alexandra Macon

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On today’s show, Julie talks with Mark Ingram of Mark Ingram Atelier. Mark has one of the best eyes in the industry for selecting dresses. The topic of today’s show is trunk shows. They can be critical in finding your dress, and some brides don’t even know what they are.

The Stylish Bride 09: What is a Trunk Show and Should I Attend?

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On today’s show, Julie talks with Giselle Ghofrani about your wedding dress bustle. Most designers do not design the wedding dress to be bustled. The designers do not think about the dancing sitting, or jumping around – they only care about walking down the aisle and that you will look amazing.

The Stylish Bride 08: How to Make Sure Your Wedding Dress Bustle Doesn’t Break

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On today’s show, Julie talks about how to transport your wedding dress to where it needs to be with the least amount of stress and hassle. You will need to ascertain your threshold of dealing with uncertainty. How the dress is packed plays a big part in the condition it arrives in. She will talk about the pros and cons of shipping vs. carrying the dress with you, as well as tips for the best practices.

The Stylish Bride 07: How to Transport Your Wedding Dress

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To get the full scoop on one of the hottest topics in the world of wedding inspiration, we are invited into the home of Abby & Tait Larson to learn more about their story, and the oh so popular wedding resource: Style Me Pretty. They started when the blogging world was fresh, and not nearly as creative. You will learn how they both started this amazing business that has grown with them and the industry-including details on how they’ve reacquired Style Me Pretty!

The Wedding Biz: Abby + Tait Larson: Saving Style Me Pretty

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In this episode of THE NEXT LEVEL, Andy and Melissa are breaking down lessons learned from Abby and Tait Larsen of Style Me Pretty. Abby and Tait have had a journey that most bloggers will never experience – being bought by AOL and eventually on the chopping block, but given the chance to take their business back and make it better than ever.

The Wedding Biz: THE NEXT LEVEL: ABBY + TAIT LARSON: SAVING STYLE ME PRETTY

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On today’s show, Julie will talk about what every bride worries about, and every planner has had to deal with. What to do when your wedding dress is wrinkled. Julie will interview an expert with fabric, Giselle Ghofrani. She will help with tips on how to handle wrinkles on your wedding dress.

The Stylish Bride 06: How to Deal With a Wrinkled Wedding Dress with Giselle Ghofrani

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REVISIT: Bryan Rafanelli’s exquisite sense of style, attention to detail and ability to transform clients’ visions into unforgettable celebrations have made him a go-to planner for the nation’s most exclusive and high-profile events. He has produced it all, from elaborate fairytale-themed fundraising galas for Massachusetts General Hospital for Children to Chelsea Clinton’s “wedding of the decade”. In this conversation, Andy talks with Bryan about how he became a world-class events designer, from his Rhode Island childhood in a family of lawyers to the happy accidents that put him on a path to producing more than 100 events annually in venues around the world. Along the way, Bryan and Andy go deep into the about the business of creativity and the creativity of business.

The Wedding Biz: REVISIT: BRYAN RAFANELLI – TELLING CLIENTS’ STORIES THROUGH EVENT DESIGN

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On today’s show, Julie talks about how you will know if you found the ONE, the perfect dress, the dress you’ll want to get married in. Brides today are having a harder time than ever before deciding on their wedding dress. There are more options out there than ever before and you are exposed to a constant stream of gorgeous photos on social media. Plus you know what dress your friends wore, and what their friends’, friends wore, and you want to be different, making it pretty overwhelming. Today, Julie will talk about how to make a decision in a never ending world of options.

The Stylish Bride 05: Have You Found the One?

Episode and Show Notes...
On today’s show, Julie continues the dress shopping conversation she had during the first 3 episodes. The anticipation of seeing your actual wedding dress for the first time can be overwhelming. You may wonder if you will still love it, if it will still fit properly, or even if they made the changes you requested. Julie has been to hundreds of dress fittings and today she tells you exactly what to expect, gives you some expert tips on how to make your first fitting go smoothly, and hopefully will alleviate any anxiety you may have.

The Stylish Bride 04: What to Expect on the First Wedding Dress Fitting

Episode and Show Notes...
Today’s show is the third episode of the Stylish Bride Podcast and Julie continues the conversation about the dress shopping experience she began in episodes 1 and 2. Today, Julie discusses specifically how you can maximize your salon appointments, what to do when your consultant just isn’t getting you. What do you need to know about finding THE dress for you, ordering the dress, and paying a deposit?

The Stylish Bride 03: Wedding Dress Shopping, Part 2

Episode and Show Notes...
You’re engaged…now what? Perhaps you think finding the perfect dress is on your radar. Julie suggests taking many details to take into consideration before finding your dream dress.  The date, venue, formality of the event, and what kind of mood/vibe you expect to have on your special day. In today’s episode, Julie will give you some wonderful advice about the steps to take after your engagement. Today’s show is the second episode of The Stylish Bride Podcast, you will soon discover that this podcast is going to be your best reference to consider while planning every little detail of your wedding; therefore, don’t stress! Julie is an expert in her niche’ so relax as you receive incredibly good advice on today’s show.

The Stylish Bride 02: Help! I’m Engaged

Episode and Show Notes...
Julie Sabatino has dedicated the past 15 years of her life to helping brides from around the world with all of the fashion elements of their weddings and has accumulated a wealth of information. She is now excited to show you how to prepare for your special day via The Stylish Bride Podcast.

The Stylish Bride 01: Welcome to the Stylish Bride

Episode and Show Notes...
REVISIT: The year is 1980. The place is New York City. And the person is Preston Bailey, who at the time was just looking for a way to pay the bills and not get evicted from his apartment. What started as a small time floral business blossomed into what we know as Preston Bailey’s immaculate and stunning work.

The Wedding Biz: REVISIT: PRESTON BAILEY – DESIGNER FOR THE AGES, PART 1