Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert Insights

Kindness, clear communication, and mutual respect aren't just nice-to-haves in the wedding industry—they're the essential building blocks for creating seamless wedding experiences. Certified Wedding Planner and Certified Educator, and Owner of For the Love of Events, Amanda Borrero, joins CWP Society COO, Krisy Thomas, as she shares powerful insights on navigating vendor relationships with professionalism and grace. Ever wondered why some wedding days flow effortlessly while others feel tense? The difference often lies in how wedding professionals interact with one another. Amanda reveals how "killing them with kindness" transformed challenging vendor situations into collaborative partnerships, including a remarkable story about a photographer who later apologized for their behavior after being met with nothing but helpfulness and positivity. Communication breakdowns between vendors can derail even the most meticulously planned weddings. We explore why email remains the gold standard for vendor communication (hint: wedding planners are juggling hundreds of conversations across dozens of events), and why cutting planners out of client conversations creates unnecessary havoc. From photographers making timeline changes directly with couples to DJs demanding last-minute adjustments, these communication missteps create problems that affect everyone involved. The podcast doesn't shy away from addressing professional appearance and behavior. Those wrinkled t-shirts and blue jeans at formal weddings? They're not just fashion faux pas—they're signs of disrespect for the occasion and the couple's investment. We discuss why matching the event's formality level matters and share cringe-worthy examples of vendors who missed the mark. Perhaps most valuable are Amanda's insights on post-wedding appreciation. The simple act of thanking fellow vendors, leaving positive reviews, and acknowledging exceptional work builds a supportive network that benefits everyone. For new professionals looking to break into established vendor circles, Amanda offers golden advice: personalized email outreach trumps Instagram DMs every time. Whether you're an established wedding professional or just starting your journey, this episode provides the blueprint for building the vendor relationships that will sustain your business for years to come. Connect with us at CWPSociety.com to learn more about our membership options and continue growing as a wedding professional. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Money conversations may not feel romantic, but they're the foundation of every successful wedding celebration. In this illuminating episode, Master Certified Wedding Planner & Certified Educator, Riley Snider joins CWP Society COO, Krisy Thomas Thomas to transform how wedding professionals approach the often-challenging topic of budgeting with clients. The difference between couples who feel empowered during planning versus those who feel stressed often comes down to budget clarity. Riley shares her proven framework for conducting comprehensive budget meetings that create financial confidence while honoring what matters most to each unique couple. You'll discover how to identify and explain commonly overlooked costs, prevent the all-too-common mistake of "going venue broke," and create built-in buffers that protect couples from unpleasant financial surprises. What makes this episode especially valuable is Riley's emphasis on the emotional intelligence needed when discussing finances. She demonstrates how treating budgets as "relationship tools rather than restrictions" builds trust between planners and clients, especially when navigating the inevitable financial challenges that arise during planning. Her Budget Confidence Checklist provides a clear roadmap any planner can implement immediately to elevate their client experience. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned pro refining your systems, you'll gain practical strategies for guiding financial conversations with compassion, clarity, and professionalism. The wedding professionals who master these skills create not just beautiful events, but trusting relationships that lead to referrals and reputation growth. Ready to become the planner clients trust with both their vision and their finances? This episode is your masterclass. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Master Certified Wedding Planner, Certified Educator and Co-Founder of The Event Ledger, Matt Mitchell joins the CWP Society's COO, Krisy Thomas for this episode of the Wedding Planner Pro Files to talk about a topic that’s often glamorized but rarely unpacked with honesty—scaling your wedding planning business. Together, they dive deep into what sustainable growth really looks like, and why it’s not always about doing more, but doing better. The wedding industry buzzes constantly with talk about scaling, but few stop to ask whether your business is truly ready for growth. Matt shares a refreshing perspective: sometimes, the smartest move isn't expanding, but strengthening your foundation first. "Being fully booked doesn't automatically mean your business is thriving," Matt reveals, identifying the three common culprits that drain profitability for wedding planners: underpricing services, maintaining unprofitable packages, and taking on too many time-intensive projects with inadequate returns. This reality check resonates with planners who find themselves working constantly yet wondering where the profits have gone. The conversation digs into practical financial foundations every wedding business needs before scaling—from deposit structures and payment terms to revenue goals and expense forecasting. Matt walks through the critical process of conducting pricing audits, suggesting that planners regularly evaluate which services actually bring both profit and joy. "If you're dreading when someone books a particular package," he notes, "why are you still offering it?" Perhaps most surprising is Matt's perspective on marketing and team building. Rather than immediately hiring associate planners when feeling overwhelmed, he suggests first outsourcing tasks that don't require your expertise but consume significant time—like administrative work or bookkeeping. Similarly, before investing heavily in advertising, ensure your message and offerings are completely dialed in. "Ads simply amplify what you're already doing," Matt explains. "They can't fix fundamental issues with your service offerings." The episode concludes with guidance on avoiding burnout and unnecessary expenses—both silent profit-killers in the wedding industry. By adopting what Matt calls a "profit first mindset," planners can make intentional decisions about where to invest resources for maximum impact. Ready to build a more financially sound wedding planning business? Schedule a "right fit call" at TheEventLedger.com and start creating the solid foundation your business deserves before your next growth phase. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

In this eye-opening episode, Hailey Beard of Hailey Beard Events joins host and CWP COO, Krisy Thomas, for a powerful conversation about the often-overlooked ethics of being a wedding day assistant. Hailey brings a unique perspective as both a Certified Wedding Planner and someone who has assisted more than 15 planning companies throughout her career. The conversation dives deep into the ethics of being a wedding day assistant—particularly the delicate balance of supporting another planner's brand while navigating today's social media-driven landscape. Hailey shares candid insights about what it truly means to show up as an extension of someone's business, emphasizing that "when you agree to assist a lead planner, you're committing to supporting their business and their clients, not for personal gain." Together, we unpack the common misconceptions and challenges that arise when these boundaries aren't clearly established. From photographers accidentally tagging assistants rather than lead planners, to the confusion created when assistants post wedding content on their personal business accounts, these scenarios affect everyone involved—especially couples who may wonder who actually planned their wedding. The most valuable takeaway? Understanding that being an exceptional assistant isn't measured by social media visibility or recognition, but by how effectively you support both the couple and lead planner. We cover practical "social media nay-nays" that every wedding professional should know, including never posting surprise elements before they've happened, respecting unplugged ceremony requests, and understanding privacy concerns for high-profile clients. Whether you're a seasoned planner building your team, a new assistant navigating industry etiquette, or somewhere in between, this conversation provides actionable guidance for maintaining professionalism and integrity in every aspect of wedding work. Ready to raise your standards and contribute positively to our industry? Listen now to transform how you approach teamwork in the wedding world. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

From helping her mother with wedding henna applications as a child to becoming a Certified Wedding Planner, Certified Educator, and the proud Owner of Big Guava Events, Rima Shaw’s journey reflects the vibrant evolution of cultural celebrations in America. In this episode, Rima joins host Krisy Thomas for a rich and insightful conversation exploring the dynamic, intricate world of South Asian weddings. Rima reveals how these multi-day festivities require meticulous attention to detail—navigating religious ceremonies, family traditions, and personal touches that reflect couples' bicultural identities. She candidly shares how proper education transformed her approach, giving her the confidence to build a thriving business despite initial family skepticism about her career path. What truly sets South Asian weddings apart are the "mini events within the grand event," each requiring precise timing and coordination. Rima's passionate description of traditional elements like Mehndi applications and dhol drummers alongside contemporary touches offers listeners a masterclass in cultural celebration planning. Her unexpected story about managing a lighting-triggered medical emergency reminds professionals about the importance of thorough preparation. Perhaps most touching is Rima's reflection on becoming a permanent part of her clients' families—the wedding planner who gets invited to international vacations and becomes the go-to professional for multiple family celebrations. This profound connection illustrates why, despite limiting herself to just 10–15 weddings annually, her business thrives through deep relationships and exceptional service. Whether you're a wedding professional looking to expand your cultural expertise or simply fascinated by the rich traditions of South Asian celebrations, this episode offers invaluable insights from someone who has truly mastered the art of honoring heritage while creating personalized modern celebrations. Ready to elevate your wedding planning expertise? Visit cwpsociety.com to explore our certification programs and join our supportive community of professional wedding planners. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Feeling overwhelmed by social media? You're not alone. Wedding professionals often struggle to maintain a consistent online presence that actually converts to bookings. Serena Waller, founder of the Dande Agency, joined, CWP Society's COO, Krisy Thomas, for this episode of the Wedding Planner Pro Files podcast to break down the ever-shifting landscape of social media marketing for wedding pros. Serena breaks down the surprising truth about Instagram's algorithm changes, hashtags are out, keywords are in. Google is now crawling Instagram content, fundamentally changing how your posts get discovered. She shares practical strategies for writing captions that align with your images, helping potential clients find you when searching for specific wedding elements. Her yearbook editor approach to caption writing offers a refreshingly simple framework for even the most caption-challenged pros. Beyond posting tactics, we explore the critical relationship between aesthetics and profitability. A pretty feed might catch the eye, but strategic content drives bookings. Serena explains how inconsistency across platforms erodes trust, revealing why your website and social presence must tell the same story about who you are as a professional. Many wedding pros are shocked to discover that their beautiful Instagram account doesn't match their website's messaging, creating confusion for potential clients. Looking toward future trends, Serena emphasizes the continuing importance of authentic video content that doesn't require professional production. She shares insights on balancing personal authenticity with professional expertise—a delicate dance that today's couples expect from their wedding vendors. Whether you're posting daily or struggling to post at all, this episode offers actionable advice for creating a social media presence that works for your business, not against it. Connect with Serena at www.dandeagency.com or follow @dandeagency on Instagram to learn more about her services and the Swell Social Club. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Weddings should be joyful celebrations for everyone present, but for neurodivergent individuals—those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory sensitivities—the typical wedding environment can quickly become overwhelming. Bright lights flash, music thumps, schedules run tight, and social expectations mount. How can wedding planners create truly inclusive experiences? Master Certified Wedding Planner & Certified Educator, Brianne Ackerland, joins CWP Society Vice President, Krisy Thomas, as she brings both professional expertise and personal insight to this vital conversation. With approximately 15-20% of the global population processing information atypically and diagnoses rising among younger generations, wedding professionals must adapt their approaches to serve all clients and guests effectively. Through practical examples and thoughtful solutions, Brianne reveals how small adjustments make profound differences. From creating sensory kits with headphones and fidget tools to establishing quiet spaces at venues, coordinating with photographers about physical touch preferences, and providing step-by-step instructions rather than general directions—these modifications require minimal extra effort but transform the wedding experience for neurodivergent participants. The most powerful tool? Communication. Starting with onboarding questions about neurodivergent family members, understanding specific triggers, and coordinating with vendors ahead of time prevents day-of surprises. While there's no one-size-fits-all approach (what triggers one person might not affect another), preparation creates space for everyone to participate comfortably. Whether you're a wedding planner working with neurodivergent clients, a couple with neurodivergent loved ones, or simply committed to creating more accessible celebrations, this episode offers valuable insights into making weddings genuinely welcoming for all minds. After all, inclusion doesn't detract from a wedding's beauty—it enhances it. Ready to create more inclusive wedding experiences? Visit cwpsociety.com to explore membership and certification opportunities to elevate your wedding planning expertise. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Krisy Thomas, Vice President of the CWP Society, is joined by special guest Carissa Kruse, marketing guru and founder of Win More Weddings Content Club, for an eye-opening conversation on what truly works in wedding industry marketing today. With a background in building a successful multi-state wedding business alongside her marketing agency, Carissa shares why many wedding pros are unknowingly “automating themselves out of business.” In a world where modern couples book based on connection and vibes, she reveals how to infuse personality into your marketing, ensuring your brand stands out in an oversaturated industry. The modern wedding couple makes decisions based primarily on vibes - that intangible feeling they get from their very first interaction with you. When your marketing feels cold, robotic or impersonal, you're pushing potential clients straight to your competitors. Carissa explains exactly how to create authentic connections through your content that makes couples feel they already know you. We explore why personal branding matters more than ever in an oversaturated industry. Rather than copying what others are doing, Carissa shows how to weave your authentic personality into your marketing to create meaningful connection points with your ideal clients. She shares specific strategies for crafting social media captions that actually convert, explaining how algorithms have shifted away from hashtags toward content-rich, SEO-optimized text. Beyond social media, Carissa breaks down her comprehensive "traffic strategy" approach that creates multiple pathways for clients to find you. Her email nurturing sequence has helped wedding pros book clients up to two years after initial inquiry. For those feeling overwhelmed by content creation, she offers practical advice on using AI tools without losing your unique voice, and why releasing perfectionism is the secret to consistent, effective marketing. Want to transform your wedding business marketing? Listen now and discover actionable strategies to connect with couples in ways your competitors aren't. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

The CWP Society has launched an innovative Wedding Associate Certification that's transforming how wedding planning teams operate and deliver consistently exceptional service. This new credential ensures every team member—not just lead planners—meets the highest professional standards, creating seamless experiences from initial consultation through the wedding day. To learn more about the Wedding Associate Certification and find certified professionals for your wedding, visit the CWP Society website. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

In this episode, Vice President of the CWP Society and Co-Host, Krisy Thomas sits down with Crystal Dailey, owner of Empower Weddings, and a Master Certified Wedding Planner whose journey proves the transformative power of education in building a thriving wedding business. Crystal's journey from event planner to Master Certified Wedding Planner reveals the transformative power of education in building a thriving wedding business. Her candid confession about initially trying to learn by simply shadowing other planners resonates with many who've walked a similar path – discovering that observation alone can't provide the comprehensive foundation needed for success. The conversation tackles one of the wedding industry's most pervasive myths: that education is only for beginners. Crystal brilliantly dismantles this misconception with a memorable analogy: "We're not going to hairstylists that stopped getting educated in the 80s. We're not going to doctors that didn't continuously educate." Her message is clear – client expectations evolve rapidly, and wedding planners who don't keep learning risk becoming obsolete. For planners feeling stuck or stagnant, Crystal offers practical wisdom on selecting the right educational investments. She recommends a strategic approach: identify your specific business pain points, look for wedding-specific programs that address them, and carefully vet educators to ensure they have proven success. Her own transformation through applying educational concepts is evident when she shares how a professional consultation presentation dramatically increased her booking rate and proper pricing education helped her confidently charge her worth. Perhaps most valuable is Crystal's advice on balancing education with the demanding schedule of a wedding planner. Her commitment to blocking off time for weekly learning demonstrates that education isn't an extra – it's essential. The results speak for themselves: refined processes, stronger client experiences, and a more profitable business. Whether you're just starting your wedding planning journey or have decades of experience, Crystal's insights prove that education is the foundation that elevates your business from ordinary to exceptional. Ready to transform your wedding planning career? Start by investing in the education that addresses your specific needs – your future clients will thank you. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Krisy Thomas, Co-Host and Vice President of the CWP Society, is joined by special guest Hailey Beard to tackle a game-changing topic for wedding planners: transforming assistants into assets, not liabilities. Ever wonder why some weddings flow perfectly while others face constant hiccups? The secret often lies not with the lead planner, but with how well they've prepared their assistant team. When wedding day assistants aren't properly equipped, they become a liability rather than an asset. In this illuminating episode, Hailey Beard, Certified Wedding Planner, Certified Educator and Owner of Hailey Beard Events, shares her proven system for transforming assistants into empowered extensions of your brand. Drawing from her dual perspective as both a lead planner and someone who regularly assists fellow certified planners, Hailey reveals the five critical elements of assistant preparation that most wedding businesses overlook. From creating detailed, strength-based task lists to providing comprehensive documentation that prevents embarrassing mix-ups with clients, her approach eliminates the guesswork that leads to wedding day disasters. You'll discover why pre-wedding planning meetings trump day-of instructions, how to establish clear communication protocols for emergencies, and which uncomfortable conversations about professional standards you absolutely must have before wedding day arrives. Haileyalso shares her strategy for finding assistants whose values align with your brand, including the simple coffee date question that reveals everything about a candidate's approach to client service. Whether you're struggling with unreliable assistants who cancel last minute, or simply looking to elevate your execution, this episode provides actionable strategies to transform your support team into your greatest competitive advantage. Visit cwpsociety.com to access more resources and explore our membership levels designed to elevate your wedding planning business. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

What happens when wedding planners invest in their education? Co-host Krisy Thomas, Vice President of the CWP Society, interviews three award winning, Master Certified Wedding Planners and Industry Advancement Directors, who reveal the transformative power of professional certification in this candid conversation that goes far beyond basic credentials. For Brianne Ackerland, certification turned a hobby into a thriving business after she sought education to balance motherhood with entrepreneurship. Now ten plus years into her journey, she continues finding value in ongoing education: "I'm still learning new things, and that's one of the huge things I value about what the group has to offer." Nicole Martinez brought years of experience to her certification journey but discovered unexpected benefits. "It changed how I viewed myself," she reveals, explaining how validation from peers and structured workflows revolutionized her business approach. Her powerful insight about confidence resonates with planners at all experience levels. For newer planner Brittney Poole, certification provided critical pricing guidance and client targeting strategies. "I am super confident that I'm charging at the level I need to be," she shares, detailing how education helped her find work-life balance while raising two young children. Perhaps most remarkable is how these competitors-turned-collaborators exemplify the community-over-competition ethos. "We don't consider ourselves competition," Poole explains about her relationship with fellow Virginia planner Martinez. "We both serve a different clientele and know what works individually for our businesses." Looking to transform your wedding planning career? Visit https://www.cwpsociety.com/ to explore membership options and join a community where planners lift each other up rather than tear each other down. As mentioned in this episode, we covered the story of Brianne and her health journey in more depth in a past discussion. Listen to that episode here. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Emma Cochran, Master Certified Wedding Planner, Certified Educator and Owner of Infinity Events, joins Krisy Thomas, VP of the CWP Society, on this episode to share her journey from challenging church-hosted weddings to crafting the transformative Wedding Ministry Certification Course. By tackling the common issues faced when planning religious weddings, Emma reveals how her course, initially aimed at the Memphis church community, has expanded to inspire a broader change in the wedding planning industry. Encouraged by CWP Society's Founder & CEO, Laurie Hartwell, Emma's mission is to revamp wedding planning in religious settings, emphasizing joy, positivity, and inclusivity. Our conversation highlights the vital relationship between churches and wedding planners, exploring the need for effective procedures within church ministries. We discuss how outdated systems can create unnecessary barriers, instead of opportunities, for planting seeds of faith at weddings. By fostering mutual understanding and teamwork between planners and church coordinators, we can transform weddings into genuinely welcoming experiences for everyone involved. Emma provides valuable insights on how positive interactions can enhance the ministry, demonstrating the power of collaboration. We also delve into the empowering role of the Wedding Ministry Program offered by the CWP Society, which equips certified wedding planners with essential tools to support entire wedding ministries. By using resources like templates and communication strategies, planners can navigate diverse religious ceremonies with respect and intentionality. Emma’s call to action encourages wedding planners and listeners to embrace this course, joining a supportive community dedicated to advancing skills and knowledge at every career stage. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to enrich the wedding experience for couples, churches, and planners alike. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Unlock the Secrets to Educating Your Couples for a Seamless Planning Experience As a wedding planner, one of your most important roles is educating your couples—helping them navigate the planning process with confidence and clarity. In this episode of Wedding Planner Pro Files, Krisy Thomas, Vice President of the CWP Society, is joined by Riley Snider, Certified Wedding Planner & Certified Educator, to discuss essential strategies for guiding couples through the complexities of wedding planning. From managing expectations shaped by Pinterest and TikTok to transforming scattered inspiration into a cohesive plan, Riley shares her expert insights on how to set couples up for success. Krisy and Riley dive into the key techniques for conducting effective budget meetings, ensuring couples understand common wedding expenses without feeling overwhelmed. They’ll also break down how to structure a planning timeline and checklist to keep clients on track. Learn why booking vendors and venues early is crucial, how Certified Wedding Planners provide invaluable peace of mind, and how tools like Timeline Genius can streamline communication and collaboration. Plus, Krisy and Riley explore the power of monthly check-ins for building trust and ensuring couples feel supported every step of the way. Finally, Riley shares her expertise on vendor education—how to help couples choose the right vendors, recognize red flags, and understand the value of an approved vendor list. Krisy and Riley discuss how to educate couples on reading reviews, conducting consultations, and asking the right questions. Plus, discover why contingency planning is an essential part of vendor selection and how joining the CWP Society can help planners refine their skills, strengthen their businesses, and turn planning challenges into growth opportunities. Join Krisy and Riley for this insightful conversation packed with practical, actionable strategies to enhance your role as an educator and elevate the experience you provide to your couples! www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Discover the secrets to success in the wedding planning industry with our special guest, Certified Educator and Certified Wedding Planner, Amanda Borrero. Amanda joins us to share her invaluable insights on building robust vendor relationships that not only enhance business success but also create a thriving community of wedding professionals. You'll learn how to leverage selflessness and collaboration to foster mutually beneficial partnerships, and why these relationships are vital for both new and experienced planners looking to establish a strong industry presence. The conversation flows into the challenges and nuances of maintaining professional boundaries, especially when personal friendships intersect with business. Amanda shares her personal experiences and offers guidance on the importance of clear expectations and professional communication. We also explore the impact of social media on professional reputations, emphasizing the need for discretion and authenticity online. With practical advice and real-world examples, this episode equips listeners with the tools to navigate complex vendor relationships, ensuring successful collaborations and smooth wedding days. By approaching relationships with a genuine willingness to contribute, planners can unlock unexpected opportunities and personal growth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to strengthen their professional networks, enhance their career, and thrive in a competitive industry. Tune in to explore how nurturing these connections can lead to resilience and lasting success. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Unlock the secrets to mastering financial management in the wedding industry with insights from our esteemed guest, Matt Mitchell. With his unparalleled expertise in both wealth management and event planning, Matt joins Laurie Hartwell, to tackle the unique financial challenges faced by wedding professionals. Discover how financial literacy can be a game-changer for wedding planners, equipping them to handle seasonal demands and unpredictable cash flow with confidence. Their conversation dives into the nuts and bolts of effective financial strategies specifically tailored for small business owners in the wedding industry. From tracking expenses meticulously to the importance of separating personal and business finances, Matt highlights practical steps to ensure profitability and sustainability. He emphasizes the critical habit of setting aside funds for taxes and regularly revisiting service costs and pricing to avoid common pitfalls like underpricing, which can threaten business longevity. Join us as we explore the crucial role of regular financial management practices, with tools like QuickBooks and services like The Event Ledger providing much-needed clarity and support. Learn how categorizing income and expenses can streamline your business operations, and why monthly bookkeeping is not just a task but a strategic move towards growth. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by financial tasks or just seeking a refresher, this episode promises valuable insights and resources to help wedding professionals transform their passion into a thriving, financially sound enterprise. The Event Ledger Waitlist: https://www.theeventledger.com/waitlist www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Can you imagine planning a $100,000 wedding without the right skills or support? Join me, Laurie Hartwell, as I share invaluable lessons planners learned (sometimes the hard way) about the importance of proper training and certification in navigating the challenges of wedding planning. This episode sheds light on why planners should not just "get experience" when they enter the industry, and how certification is more than just a piece of paper; it's a gateway to a professional network, mentorship, and the expertise needed to handle everything from contract law to crisis management. Listen as we explore why couples are increasingly seeking wedding planners who are certified, and how this elevates the entire industry. With 78% of couples preferring planners with credentials, we dive into the skills and knowledge that set certified professionals apart. Listen as Laurie guides aspiring and current planners through the critical components of a comprehensive certification program and emphasize the value of starting your career with a solid educational foundation. Don't miss this essential discussion about building confidence and capability in one of life's most significant celebrations. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Discover how to elevate your wedding planning career with the invaluable insights of Aisha Garnett, a Master Certified Wedding Planner and Certified Educator, in this episode of the Wedding Planner Profiles podcast. Unlock the secrets of connecting with seasoned professionals through the CWP Society and learn the art of finding your "wedding planner bestie" for mutual support and accountability. Aisha shares her personal journey and outlines the benefits of being part of a supportive network, especially when navigating the sometimes intimidating wider wedding industry. Engage with the power of educational initiatives and workshops designed to propel your career forward. Aisha highlights the role of the CWP Society's Wedding Pro Workshops, where collaboration thrives in a constructive environment, free from the negativity often found in online spaces. She also delves into the significance of business coaching calls, providing a platform to tackle both business and personal challenges. The conversation emphasizes the importance of a community that fosters accountability, helping you stay on track with your professional goals. Elevate your career through the limitless possibilities of goal setting in the wedding planning industry. Aisha’s narrative underscores how setting personal and professional goals can unlock numerous opportunities, and advocates for using the support of the CWP community to achieve them. Uncover the significance of certification as a testament to a planner's commitment to excellence and industry standards. This episode serves as an inspiring call to action, encouraging you to set, revisit, and achieve your goals, contributing positively to the future of the wedding industry. Join us to become part of a passionate community dedicated to raising the standards of wedding planning. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Discover how authentic relationships can revolutionize your wedding planning business with insights from Amanda Borerro, owner of For the Love of Events. Gain practical tips on transforming professional connections into trusted friendships that foster collaboration and support. Amanda, along with hosts Krisy Thomas and Laurie Hartwell, shares the secrets to achieving seamless events through genuine engagement with vendors, moving beyond online presence to create a more meaningful network within the industry. Learn how selecting the right team can make all the difference in delivering exceptional experiences for your clients. We dive into the importance of vetting vendors and building a positive, supportive environment, particularly highlighting personal stories from the entertainment sector. Understanding the etiquette and considerations for forming vendor teams is crucial, as it enhances trust and collaboration. This episode offers a treasure trove of advice for up-and-coming planners and seasoned professionals alike, emphasizing kindness and positivity as cornerstones of success. Communication and professionalism take center stage as we explore the importance of setting clear expectations and maintaining boundaries with clients and vendors. Delve into the nuances of professional interactions and the significance of giving credit where it's due to foster a respectful community. Amanda and the hosts advocate for a planning approach rooted in kindness and grace, dispelling the myth that being bossy equates to effectiveness. Listen in to discover how nurturing genuine vendor relationships through small gestures and authentic interactions can lead to sustainable success without the hefty price tag of traditional marketing. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety

Unlock the secrets to keeping your wedding clients overjoyed and stress-free with our expert insights on the Wedding Planner Pro Files podcast. Join Laurie Hartwell and Krisy Thomas as they reveal strategies that transform the client experience, emphasizing the importance of building genuine relationships over relying solely on automation. Learn which automation tools can enhance your professionalism without losing the personal touch, like automated invoice reminders and out-of-office replies. We're here to guide you in balancing technology with heartfelt interactions, ensuring your clients feel valued and understood. Discover how to set yourself apart as a wedding planner by mastering personalized client interactions. They'll share why generic automated responses can harm your client connections and how referencing specific details can foster intimacy and trust. We critique certain automated processes, such as long questionnaires and lengthy out-of-office messages, that can overwhelm clients. By honing your communication skills and maintaining concise inquiry forms, you can reduce client anxiety and show them they are truly heard and appreciated. Empower your career with strategic planning and effective communication techniques that anticipate challenges before they arise. We'll discuss the critical role of foresight in preventing last-minute issues and unexpected costs, allowing you to provide a seamless experience for your clients. Moreover, we'll highlight the importance of well-structured workflows and proactive communication to keep your clients informed and at ease. Listen in as we underscore the value of genuine connections and robust communication, not just for client satisfaction but also for fostering positive word-of-mouth referrals and a successful career in wedding planning. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety