Wedding Planner Pro Files

Imagine ensuring that every single moment of a wedding is captured perfectly without any last-minute surprises. Laurie Hartwell, Krisy Thomas, and Aisha Garnett join us to unravel the common, but critical, challenge of when photography companies withhold the contact information of assigned photographers. Learn how early communication and transparency can prevent misunderstandings and create a personalized, seamless experience for the bride and groom. Hear firsthand stories of near mishaps and misunderstandings that were easily avoidable with a bit of early planning and coordination. We dive into the nuts and bolts of creating detailed shot lists and why they're non-negotiable tools for both planners and photographers. Discover how these lists safeguard important moments without limiting creative freedom. We discuss real-world examples of how miscommunication can lead to delays and missed shots, emphasizing that proactive, open dialogue can bridge the gap between planners' meticulous timelines and photographers' artistic visions. By aligning expectations early, both parties can fulfill the couple's dreams without added stress. The episode culminates in an inspiring call for industry collaboration and mutual support among all wedding professionals. Laurie, Krisy, and Aisha stress the importance of setting egos aside to ensure a flawless wedding day. From thoughtful touches like providing water on hot days, to sharing trusted referrals, the conversation highlights practical ways to foster a supportive environment. Wrapping up with an invitation to explore the benefits of the CWP Society membership, we encourage all wedding pros to join a community committed to elevating industry standards and delivering unforgettable experiences. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Imagine a world where AI transforms wedding ceremonies into unforgettable, deeply personalized experiences. Today, we bring you an exclusive conversation with Steven Greitzer, CEO and founder, and Josh Fagel, head of business development, as they unveil Provenance, an AI-driven tool revolutionizing ceremony, vows, and toast writing. Steven shares his heartfelt journey of officiating weddings for friends, which sparked the creation of Provenance, addressing the need for legally compliant, meaningful scripts. Josh dives into how Provenance alleviates the stress of public speaking, ensuring a flawless ceremony for wedding planners and couples alike. Discover the magic behind integrating AI into personalized wedding ceremonies and speeches. Provenance isn't just a tool; it's a treasure trove of hyper-personalized services, offering everything from customizable ceremony scripts to a vast library of readings and rituals. Steven and Josh emphasize the irreplaceable emotional touch humans bring to weddings, and how Providence augments this with insights from over 100,000 weddings. The result? A seamless blend of tradition and technology that resonates deeply with today's couples. But that's not all—customer service is at the heart of Provenance. Steven and Josh reveal how their commitment to empathy and urgency enhances the user experience, making Provenance not just a tool, but a partner in wedding planning. Learn about the comprehensive dashboard designed for managing every ceremony detail, and the importance of proactive planning and certification through the CWP Society. With Provenance, you're not just planning a wedding; you're crafting a stress-free, memorable celebration that will be cherished forever. Join us and discover how Provenance can elevate your wedding planning game. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

In this episode, we will be discussing new Certifications and Membership through the CWP Society, as well as how couples are trying to use AI as wedding planners, and how it can all go terribly wrong. Tune in to hear Laurie Hartwell and Krisy Thomas from the CWP Society as they reveal the secrets behind the new Wedding Ministry Team Certification Program. This initiative is more than just a certification; it’s a comprehensive effort to foster better collaboration between wedding planners, church coordinators, pastors, sound technicians, and janitorial staff. Discover how customizable templates and thorough education are breaking down barriers to create a respectful and harmonious environment for everyone involved in a wedding at a church. Join us as we explore the CWP Society's cutting-edge certifications and premium memberships, designed to simplify and enhance wedding businesses. Can AI ever replace the nuanced expertise of a human wedding planner? Laurie and Krisy weigh in on this HOT topic, sharing real-life examples where AI tools like Provenance can certainly assist with tasks such as customizing toasts and generating wedding setup images, but it falls short when it comes to personalization, emotional support, and managing real-life logistics. We discuss the irreplaceable value of experienced planners who handle last-minute changes and vendor negotiations with ease. As we conclude, we reflect on the power of unity and collaboration in the wedding industry, leaving you with an inspiring quote from American poet, Maddie Stepanek, on the strength of teamwork. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Discover the unexpected truths behind successful team dynamics in the wedding industry with our special guest, Shane Presley of DJ Shane Entertainment. We're peeling back the layers to reveal why a bigger team doesn't always mean a better business or more success. From the challenges of aligning passion and vision, to the art of impeccable coordination, this episode is an insider's guide to building and nurturing the dream team that will take your wedding planning service to the next level. Join Krisy Thomas and Laurie Hartwell as they share personal experiences and professional insights on how to manage a wedding professional team effectively. We talk about striking the perfect balance between quality and quantity, the importance of ongoing education, and strategies for avoiding ego clashes that can hinder business growth. You'll hear firsthand accounts of the pressures and triumphs that come with ensuring that every detail of a couple's special day goes off without a hitch. Finally, we take a candid look at the politics of the wedding industry, and the significance of staying true to your brand's ethos. We discuss the challenge of finding the right team members who embody your vision, and how to handle the hurdles of team classification and compliance without sacrificing your service excellence. Whether you're a seasoned wedding pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you build a team that's not just big, but brilliant. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Ever encountered the puzzling silence after sending out wedding invitations? We all know the feeling, but our latest episode tackles the RSVP conundrum head-on with insights from wedding industry mavens, Laurie Hartwell and Krisy Thomas of the CWP Society. We dissect the bold strategy of a past bride's 'missed RSVP card' and debate its effectiveness in nudging those elusive responses from guests. Is it a necessary measure or a step too far? Let's navigate the tricky waters of wedding RSVP etiquette together and find out how to strike the perfect balance between courtesy and practicality. The conversation takes a sobering turn as we address the recent and sudden shutdown of a venue. This heartbreaking scenario serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of plans and the ethical crossroads faced by businesses in crisis. Through the turmoil faced by displaced couples, we spotlight the ripple effects on the industry and the beacon of hope offered by local venues extending a helping hand. Together with our guests, we delve into the responsibilities of venue owners, debating the intersection of business acumen and moral obligation, and the lessons we can all learn from such industry upheavals. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Embark on a journey with us as we unravel the hidden truths behind vendor meals at weddings, a topic that's sparked more debate than you might think. Krisy and Laurie delve into the ins and outs of the "why, when, and where" those working your special day should eat. It's a candid look at the wedding industry, where we're setting the record straight on the essential timing of meals for vendors to ensure they're energized and poised to capture every cherished moment without missing a beat. As the conversation unfolds, we share personal anecdotes and insights into the real risks of skimping on vendor meals - think photographers missing shots because of hunger-induced fatigue. We're laying bare the facts and urging for contractual clarity, robust client education, and a harmonious synergy between catering and coordination. Understanding and respect for all involved parties are the linchpins of any successful event, and we're here to tell you why. Closing our enlightening exchange, the spotlight is shone on the irreplaceable role of certified wedding planners. These professionals are the maestros behind the scenes, ensuring that photographers and other vendors can snag that quick bite without the fear of missing the first dance or the cake cutting ceremony. By tuning in, you're not just listening to a podcast episode; you're joining a movement dedicated to upholding the highest standards for wedding experiences across the board. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Embark on an enchanting journey with us, Aisha Garnett, and Courtney Justice, a Master Certified Wedding Planner and owner of Just Us Weddings and Events, as we walk you through the dreamy realm of destination weddings. Uncover the magnetic pull of picturesque countries such as France and Italy, and the practicalities of orchestrating an unforgettable "I do" far from home. Prepare to be captivated as we discuss the industry's skyrocketing growth, forecasted to reach a breathtaking $105 billion by 2028, and the importance of transparent budget discussions to ensure guests aren't burdened by unexpected expenses. Navigating the intricacies of destination wedding planning requires finesse, from mastering local customs to managing the maze of travel logistics for your guests. Our conversation covers the crucial role of travel planners, the nuances of cultural differences, and the art of balancing expectations with reality when it comes to guest accommodations and documentation. If you're a wedding professional expanding your horizons with couples who are dreaming of a romantic overseas ceremony, gain valuable insights into selecting a location that echoes their vision and making every detail count on their special day. Join us as we also shine a light on the emotional backbone of the wedding industry – the memories captured and cherished. We share heartrending tales, like that of a photographer's stolen SD card, holding irreplaceable wedding images, and discuss the lengths photographers and planners go to in safeguarding these precious moments. Understand how attention to detail and effective collaboration among vendors can create a seamless and memorable experience, and explore the high stakes and pressures that wedding professionals navigate to deliver perfection on one of life's most significant occasions. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Step into the world of weddings with us, as we unravel the key ingredients that make or break the most special day of a couple's life. Joining me is Laurie Hartwell, the woman behind the CWP Society, where we dissect the latest findings from The Knot and delve into how wedding planners can transform any nuptial into an affair to remember. Ensure every guest leaves with a lasting impression, potentially becoming a future advocate for your services. We'll also share a charming tale of a photographer who turned an ordinary situation into an extraordinary story, proving that sometimes, it's the smallest gestures that leave the deepest mark. The episode takes a dramatic turn as we dissect the nightmare scenario of couple's reception brought to a halt due to the venue's legal woes. Hear what Krisy Thomas, a seasoned wedding planner, has to say about preempting such debacles. We analyze the importance of vetting your venue, and how expert planners can act as your shield against unforeseen legal mishaps that could sour your day. From emotional turmoil to financial loss, we lay out steps couples can undertake to safeguard their celebrations. Embark on this journey with us, and arm yourself with the wisdom to keep your wedding day dreamy, not dreary. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Are wedding trends pressuring you into creating a celebration for your couples that feels more like a fad than a reflection of their love story? Fear not, for Krisy Thomas and Laurie Hartwell have joined forces to guide you through the maze of wedding industry "do's and don'ts," unleashing the secrets curating a day that's unmistakably designed to reflect your client. Tune in as we unravel the often-overlooked reality that the pursuit of trendiness can eclipse personal touches, leading to carbon-copy ceremonies devoid of individuality. We'll share how we champion the unique narratives of every couple, transforming their most cherished memories into occasions that resonate long after the last dance. Let go of the cookie-cutter, and embrace the authentic as we reveal the magic behind tailoring nuptial celebrations to the couple's essence, regardless of what the trendsetters say. As wedding professionals, we'll reflect on the triumph of realizing our clients' visions over chasing online accolades. Join us, and be part of the CWP Society, where the heart of the wedding industry beats to the rhythm of love and dedication. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

When Brianne Ackerland, a seasoned Master Certified Wedding Planner, faced a sudden cardiac arrest, it changed not only her life, but the way we think about emergency strategies in our bustling industry. Our latest episode is a wakeup call, detailing the harrowing account of Brianne's experience and the critical lessons in preparedness it offers for wedding planners everywhere. We dissect the chaotic spectrum of potential crises, and underscore the indomitable spirit needed to navigate such unpredictable terrain. Embarking on a career in wedding planning is no small feat, and safeguarding our well-being is as paramount as ensuring a flawless event. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of self-care, where we dive into the practicalities of building a robust support system and the innovative planning tools that keep us poised for the unexpected. Join us as we express our deepest gratitude for Brianne's insights and look forward to the strides she's poised to make in the year ahead. The episode takes an unexpected twist as we recount a pop-up wedding that commandeered a local coffee shop, examining the chaos it created with insights from Laurie Hartwell. Transitioning to a sweeter note, we sift through the logistics of wedding desserts. It's a reminder that the devil is in the details, especially when it comes to ending the night on a high (and delicious) note. This episode is rich with stories, strategies, and the encouragement needed to conquer the wild world of weddings. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Wedding planning isn't just about selecting the perfect centerpiece or the most photogenic venue—it's an art form honed over years of personal growth and industry evolution. Laurie Hartwell, founder & CEO of the CWP Society, brings this to life, sharing her thirty-year voyage through the ebbs and flows of the wedding industry. As she unfolds her story of building self-esteem and the crucial role of intuition in business, you'll find yourself nodding along, thinking of your own evolution—whether in career or character. It’s a conversation that digs into the fabric of success and the colorful challenges faced along the way, all woven together with the unwavering support of Laurie's loving partner. The digital revolution has brought a cascade of changes to every corner of our lives, and the wedding industry is no exception. This episode examines the transformative power of technology in solving business problems and boosting client delight. Ever found yourself wrestling with the paralysis of fear? Laurie Hartwell's breakthroughs and insights into conquering those nagging doubts are the kind of wisdom that'll leave you brimming with confidence to take on the business world. And as we navigate the waters of digital networking, Laurie reminds us of the irreplaceable value of personal connections—a beacon for professionals striving to build lasting success in an ocean of ephemeral online interactions. Education in wedding planning should be as diverse as the weddings themselves, and that's where this episode takes an eye-opening turn. Dive into the responsibility of educators in the wedding industry and the impact of so-called 'pop-up' gurus. Laurie's perspective is a refreshing take on nurturing wedding professionals at every career stage — emphasizing integrity, kindness, and the power of personal engagement over fleeting trends. As you listen, you'll be inspired by the keys to genuine achievement in this enchanting industry, and perhaps you'll even feel compelled to be a part of the nurturing community at the CWP Society. It's an episode that's not just about planning the perfect day—it's about crafting the perfect career in wedding planning. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

In this episode, we interview the Executive Director of Wish Upon a Wedding, Lacey Wicksall, where we discuss the organization, and celebrate the industry's spirit of giving and highlight the incredible resilience found in the face of adversity. Our conversation is a tribute to the impact of community support, as we delve into the process of creating dream weddings and vow renewals for couples braving serious health challenges. After that, we also navigate the treacherous waters of wedding budgeting. This podcast peels back the curtain on the misconceptions propagated by social media and underscores the value of a certified wedding planner. You'll gain insights into how couples need to prioritize their financial resources to amplify what truly resonates with them on their wedding day. Moreover, this episode offers pearls of wisdom for wedding professionals—to educate and tailor services to fit every couple's unique budgetary needs. It's about crafting a day that celebrates love, with guidance that's attainable for all, emphasizing that expert advice shouldn’t be a luxury, but a staple in planning the most heartfelt moments. Finally, we discuss the pros and cons of having friends or family officiate a wedding. If you would like to learn more about how you can donate your services, time, or money to Wish Upon A Wedding, visit their website: https://www.wishuponawedding.org/ www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Navigating the wedding industry can be a dance of love and logistics, even more so when you're stepping to the rhythm alongside your soulmate. Philip and Laurie pull from thier own experiences to offer a candid look at the synergies and complexities of running a wedding planning business as a married couple. They explore the essential role of communication, the art of compromise, and the profound impact of trust in both thier personal and professional lives. Their journey hasn't just been about creating dream weddings; it's been about weaving the fabric of thier relationship into a stronger, more resilient partnership. When two people with distinct decision-making styles collaborate, sparks can fly, but so can innovation. We take you behind the scenes of their day-to-day operations, where Laurie's eye for detail complements Philip's drive for efficiency. Through anecdotes and insights, they share the nuances of tailoring communication to foster understanding and align their business strategies. It's not just about working together; it's about growing together, learning to navigate the waters of entrepreneurship without losing sight of the lighthouse that is their relationship. As they round up their heart-to-heart, they don't shy away from the challenges of keeping the flames of romance burning brightly amidst the demands of their business. They get personal, sharing how they balance the books and their marriage, from integrating vacations with business trips, to switching off work mode and cherishing their time as empty nesters. What's more, they extend a heartfelt invitation to join the CWP Society, a community where support and collaboration aren't just buzzwords—they're the cornerstone of how they operate. Whether you're a fellow couple in business or a solo wedding planner, this episode is a celebration of love, entrepreneurship, and the magic that ensues when they intersect. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

What happens when wedding professionals fail to communicate effectively and misunderstand each other's roles? Listen to our heart-to-heart chat as we unpack this. We'll guide you through the challenging journey of collaboration and understanding among wedding professionals, highlighting the importance of having a professional's perspective and working with approved vendors. In the final lap, we discuss the new FREE membership that the CWP Society now offers wedding professionals and how important it is that we explore the pivotal role of trust, collaboration, and understanding in creating a successful dream team on wedding days. Learn how professionals can work well together with more understanding, and collaboration. Don't miss the chance to learn about this loving family you can find with the CWP Society! Remember, it's not just about planning weddings, it's about creating unforgettable experiences and making every moment count, both for the couples and the professionals involved. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Ever been to a wedding and thought, "I could do this better?" I, Aisha Garnett, used to think the same, until she found her path from TV production to becoming a Certified Wedding Planner. Her journey was shaped by the Certified Wedding Planner Society (CWP Society). Together with its founder and CEO, Laurie Hartwell, they explore the mission of the CWP Society - to provide affordable, comprehensive education and certification for aspiring wedding planners and now... to ALL wedding professionals. They shed light on the society's revolutionary impact on the wedding industry and its commitment to raising the standard. Imagine your perfect wedding being crashed by a complete stranger! Shocking, right? We bring this issue into focus as we talk about a strange case about a woman who has been making the rounds in three Southern states, crashing weddings and stealing gifts. Tennessee wedding planner, Krisy Thomas, weighs in on this bizarre issue, providing insights on the impact and prevention of wedding crashing. We round off this discussion with advice on securing your wedding against such incidents. A wedding is an occasion of joy and cheer, and what better way to remember it than through a guestbook filled with messages of love from those who shared your special day. But who says your guestbook has to be a book? We explore intriguing ideas like photo booths and polaroid cameras that capture fun memories from your guests. We emphasize the importance of introducing unique ideas to your clients. Finally, as we wrap up this thrilling episode, we invite you to join us again next month as we uncover more about the fascinating world of wedding planning. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Ever wondered about the risks couples are taking when entrusting their big day to a wedding planner with no formal education? This episode grapples with this substantial issue, spotlighting the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on experience alone, and the discomfort it could breed in couples investing their hard-earned thousands into their celebrations. We challenge the trend of stepping into this industry without comprehensive training, and ponder whether the lack of an educational investment is worth the potential damage to one's reputation and career, not to mention a couple's once-in-a-lifetime event. We extend this discussion to talk more about the significance of formal education in the wedding planning industry and the potential repercussions of leaning on on the job. We shed light on the legal implications of training independent contractors, as well as the criticality of honesty and openness. Delve into the rampant phenomenon of misguided advice in an online context, and how it could tarnish a planner's reputation even before the inception of their career. Moreover, we stress the importance of affiliating with supportive organizations that can guide a planner on their professional journey. Closing on an optimistic note, we discuss the virtues of joining the Certified Wedding Planner Society, and the advantages of owning an official certification in the industry. We reiterate the importance of a legit certification to assure couples that they are in good hands. Plus, we reflect on the value of a supportive network akin to a family, and the benefits of networking with a wider community of wedding planners. Tune in for this enlightening and thought-provoking conversation that just might change your perspective on the wedding planning industry. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Listen in as the host of the Wedding Industry News Series, Aisha Garnett, unravels the shocking tale of a bride swindled out of a whopping $12,000 by her seemingly trustworthy wedding planner. Laurie Hartwell, founder and CEO of the Certified Wedding Planner Society, shares invaluable insights, highlighting the critical need for couples and wedding professionals alike to thoroughly vet vendors before shelling out any cash. Discover the essence of contracts and direct payment transactions in safeguarding couple's hard-earned money. On a brighter note, are you geared up to handle the imminent wave of engagements? Krisy Thomas, Vice President of the Certified Wedding Planner Society, joins us to discuss how the industry can capitalize on the engagement season. Learn why the speed of your response to inquiries is a game-changer and why an updated website showcasing your qualifications and certifications is vital in attracting potential customers. Brace yourself for an insightful session to help you stand out in the cutthroat wedding industry. Tune in now! www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Over this 3-part series, we are going to tackle how personal relationship can evolve into a successful professional partnership? My husband, Philip and I embarked on this journey in the wedding planning industry and let me tell you, it was no easy ride. We braved the storm of transitioning from soulmates to professional partners with a fair share of hurdles and triumphs. But through it all, we discovered the power of communication, and the importance of understanding what goes into the process. We will be sharing our personal experiences, tips, and tricks that helped us make this journey smoother. We dive into the intricate dynamics of working with your soulmate on the actual wedding day. Whether it's with your regular assistant or a one-off helper, having clear expectations, roles, and responsibilities are key. We'll unpack the potential power plays that can occur, and most importantly, how to prevent them. We'll also shed light on how this challenging, yet rewarding, experience can be a unique way to bond with your loved one. So, join us as we navigate through the often overlooked aspects of the wedding planning industry, one story at a time. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Ever felt like you're falling behind as you constantly compare your wedding planning business to those perfectly crafted posts on social media? Say no more! We're here to unmask the misleading perception built by these highlight reels. Trust us, it's time to focus on your journey, set your own goals, and embrace authenticity! Let's not ignore the elephant in the room - don't let the idea of others' successes fool you; success is not measured by the number of times you've been published in popular blogs or magazines. Our advice? Compare yourself to the previous version of you, celebrate your achievements, and don't forget to share the credit. It's only when you do that, you'll experience the true joy of running a business that screams 'you'! www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Picture this: you're scrolling through your social media, and you stumble upon a stunning wedding cake made by the bride herself. This is what happened to Lily Mendoza, who skyrocketed to viral fame, navigating a deluge of both cheers and jeers from netizens worldwide. Caught in the crosshairs of 'wedding shaming', she turned this into an opportunity to showcase her passion and talent, proving that every cloud indeed has a silver lining. Join us as we delve into Lily's inspiring story and discuss the darker side of the wedding industry. But it's not all doom and gloom! We pivot to the importance of vendor relationships in ensuring a successful wedding and offering invaluable insights into the significance of these relationships, alongside the detrimental effects of 'ghosting' within the industry. The discussion further extends to the growing trend of wedding content creators and their revolutionary influence on this age-old industry. So, buckle up, grab a cup of coffee, and prepare for a fascinating exploration of the wedding industry's multifaceted world. You might just learn something that'll help you plan your own big day or navigate your career in this ever-evolving industry. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety