Wedding Pros who are ready to grow - with Becca Pountney

Today I'm challenging the idea that there are too many people in the wedding industry. Despite the influx of new people entering our industry, I don't want you to see this as a negative, instead I am encouraging you to embrace collaboration over competition. In this episode I am going to talk through and respond to some of the negative comments I am hearing and I am going to share my tips for standing out in a crowded wedding market. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.beccapountney.com www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: The competition challenge (00:00:00) Addressing the perception of a saturated wedding market and the impact of increased competition on standing out. Local competition concern (00:00:59) Reflecting on the survey results showing local competition as a significant challenge for wedding professionals and the speaker's perspective on collaboration over competition. Benefits of increased suppliers (00:02:52) Discussing the positive impact of more suppliers entering the industry, using examples of commercial spaces and the normalization of new wedding services. Maintaining professionalism (00:07:17) Strategies for maintaining professionalism amidst new entrants, including embracing newcomers and emphasizing one's own credentials and experiences. Dealing with price wars (00:10:51) Addressing concerns about price wars, emphasizing the importance of knowing one's own numbers, avoiding the race to the bottom, and educating clients on the value provided. Standing out in a crowded market (00:15:06) Encouraging differentiation and finding a unique selling point to stand out in a crowded market, highlighting the need to avoid being the "vanilla" option. Diversifying business sources (00:17:39) Advising on the importance of diversifying business sources and not relying solely on one venue or supplier recommendation. Building Relationships with Venues (00:18:41) Tips for wedding professionals to go above and beyond for venues and benefit from collaboration. Embracing New Competition (00:19:33) Encouragement to welcome new professionals, learn from fresh ideas, and embrace the industry's growth. Dealing with Price Competition (00:20:31) Strategies to handle competitors offering lower prices and reassurance about the value of quality service. Surviving and Thriving Amid Competition (00:21:27) Reassurance that businesses offering poor quality or extremely cheap services won't survive in the long run. Reframing the Perception of Competition (00:23:21) An exercise to reframe the way wedding professionals view their direct competition and identify areas for improvement. Leveraging Competition for Growth (00:25:13) Using the strengths and weaknesses of competitors to set goals and refine marketing messaging. Community and Collaboration (00:26:11) Encouragement to build relationships and collaborate with other wedding professionals for...

How can you ensure that you have a brand that stands out amongst your wedding business peers? Is your brand attracting the right kind of wedding couples? How important are colours when it comes to your wedding brand? Today I'm chatting with Emily Foster Creative about all things branding for your wedding business. Emily specialises in creating branding and websites for wedding professionals to help them attract their ideal couples. Whether you are just starting out, considering a rebrand or want reassurance that you are on the right path, this episode is for you. Grab a copy of Emily's free colour guide resource Visit Emily's website Find Emily on Instagram Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.beccapountney.com www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: Feeling Burnt Out (00:00:00) Recognizing signs of burnout and the need to niche down further or rebrand. Introduction and Background (00:00:30) Introducing the podcast and the guest, Emily Foster, a branding and website designer. Personal Background and Career Journey (00:01:19) Emily Foster shares her journey from working in agencies to starting her own branding and website design studio. Importance of Branding (00:04:47) Discussion on the comprehensive nature of branding beyond just logos and colors. Examples of Strong Branding (00:06:01) Examples of strong branding from big corporations like Coca-Cola and Starbucks. Common Branding Mistakes (00:08:39) Identifying common branding mistakes made by wedding professionals and how to avoid them. Importance of Business Name (00:14:09) Discussion on the significance of business names and their impact on branding and SEO. Humorous Anecdote about Business Names (00:18:23) An amusing anecdote about the similarity between wedding business names and strip club names. Assessing Branding Effectiveness (00:19:04) Determining when it's time for a brand refresh based on confidence and other factors. Feeling Insecure in Your Business (00:19:14) Recognizing signs of needing a rebrand, like insecurity in showing off your business and pricing surprises. Attracting the Right Clients (00:20:35) Identifying the need to niche down or rebrand to attract the right clients and avoid burnout. Alleviating the Fear of Change (00:22:17) Addressing the fear of rebranding and the benefits of intentional brand direction and launch strategy. Color Psychology and Branding (00:26:16) Exploring the influence of colors on emotions and actions, and the intentional use of color in branding. Choosing Brand Colors (00:29:25) Discussing the process of selecting...

Today I'm chatting with former Wedding Planner and current owner of the Refine Collective Amber Anderson. She shares her own story of starting a Wedding Planning Business and shares insights and learning's from along the way. Amber also shares her story of a recent health crisis and what it's taught her about life and business. Visit Refine for Wedding Planners Find Amber on Instagram Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.beccapountney.com www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: 00:00 The Power of Education in Business Growth 00:32 Introducing Becca Pountney and the Podcast's Mission 00:59 Special Guest Amber Anderson: A Journey from Fitness to Wedding Planning 01:32 Networking and Creativity: The Selfie Museum Event 03:13 Amber's Business Beginnings and Learning Curves 06:02 The Importance of Networking and Choosing the Right Clients 10:43 Navigating the World of Business Education and Mentorship 15:18 Radical Honesty and Problem Solving in the Wedding Industry 19:37 Self-Care, Health Challenges, and Business Adjustments 31:34 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs

Today I'm chatting with social media manager and content creator Emily Rochotte! We talk all things content, and dive deep into why it's time for your wedding business to be on TikTok. We also talk about outsourcing work to others and the recent evolution of social media in the wedding industry. Grab a copy of Emily's outsourcing checklist here. Website: https://emilyrochotte.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilyrochotte/ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@emilyrochotte Want to get further training from Emily? Join the Wedding Pro Members lounge now to access her TikTok session: https://go.beccapountney.com/wedpro Time stamps: 00:00 Reflecting on the Journey: From Cringe to Growth 00:16 Meet Becca Pountney: The Voice Behind the Wedding Pros Podcast 00:45 Introducing Emily Rochotte: A Social Media Manager. 01:57 Emily's Path into the Wedding Industry 03:21 The Importance of Social Media in Wedding Business Marketing 06:00 Content Creation Tips for Wedding Professionals in 2024 09:02 Overcoming the Challenge of Limited Images 11:39 Staying Fresh and Innovative in Content Marketing 13:13 The Essential Guide to TikTok for Wedding Pros 18:53 Embracing Imperfection in Content Creation 19:20 Navigating the Post-COVID Wedding Industry Landscape 20:03 The Long Game of Social Media Marketing 22:16 Staying Consistent with Content During Busy Seasons 26:18 The Importance of Marketing for Fully Booked Businesses 28:34 When and How to Consider Outsourcing Your Social Media 33:02 Understanding Your Brand for Effective Marketing 35:00 Final Thoughts and the Value of Knowing Your Business Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.beccapountney.com www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: TikTok Training inside the Wedding Pro Members Lounge! Want more indepth training on using TikTok in your Wedding Business? Join Emily and myself inside of the Wedding Pro Members Lounge for a full masterclass. Not yet a member? Use the code PODCAST at checkout to get your first month for just £10.00! Wedding Pro Members Lounge

Today I'm chatting with Bernadette Chapman. Having spent 21 years in the wedding industry and being the sole founder of the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners, recently Bernadette has made some big business decisions. We dive deep into how she has stepped away from the career she loves, the state of the wedding industry in 2024 and how we can all strive to be better at the business of weddings. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.beccapountney.com www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: Procrastination and Subconscious Resistance (00:00:00) Explanation of why people procrastinate and resist change due to subconscious fear. Introduction to Bernadette Chapman (00:00:24) Becca Pountney introduces Bernadette Chapman, a veteran in the wedding planning industry, and discusses her experience and insights. Starting a Wedding Planning Business in the Pre-Internet Era (00:01:36) Bernadette Chapman shares her experience of starting a wedding planning business before the internet era, including the challenges and lack of resources. Challenges of Getting First Clients (00:05:04) Discussion about the challenges of getting the first wedding planning clients and the unexpected experience of Bernadette's first wedding. Launch of the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners (00:10:07) Bernadette discusses the reasons for launching the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners and its impact on the industry. Common Mistakes in Wedding Planning Business (00:12:42) Insights into the common mistakes wedding planners make, including overemphasis on aesthetics and the importance of training and education. The Misconception of Instant Success in the Wedding Industry (00:15:37) Discussion about the misconception of instant success in the wedding industry and the importance of hard work, experience, and adaptation. Importance of Onboarding for a Smooth Client Experience (00:19:26) Bernadette emphasizes the importance of onboarding for creating a positive first impression, setting boundaries, and automating processes for a smoother client experience. The importance of quick response and automation (00:22:04) Clients' expectations for immediate answers, automation systems, and quick processes in the wedding planning business. Efficient onboarding process (00:24:01) Creating a smooth and quick onboarding process for clients, including proposal, contract, deposit, and welcome email. Using systems to streamline processes (00:25:16) Discussion about using software and systems to automate processes, making it easier for clients to pay and streamline operations. Challenges and decision to close the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners (00:27:20) The emotional impact and reasons behind the decision to close the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners after 21 years, including the need for joy and the toll of emotional support. Reflections on entrepreneurship and business decisions (00:32:06) The pressure to grow a business, the importance...

Today I am sharing my top tips for preparing your wedding business for the future. There will likely come a time when you need to outsource your tasks or grow a team, so today I am sharing my top tips to ensure your wedding business or venue is ready to take that leap. In today's episode I mention: The Wedding Pro Business Builder course The Wedding Pro Agency Scribe plugin Enji Step 1: Brand Guide (00:00:57) Creating a comprehensive brand guide including logo, color codes, fonts, and brand voice. Step 2: Templates (00:06:34) Using templates for social media graphics and ensuring they are easily accessible in Canva. Step 3: Password Manager (00:09:07) Implementing a password manager, such as LastPass, for secure and efficient sharing of login details. Step 4: Organizing Image Files (00:12:45) Organizing image files in a cloud-based system with a structured folder hierarchy and including relevant details for each image. Organizing Image Files (00:17:52) Becca emphasizes the importance of organizing image files into a cloud-based system and subfolders for efficient outsourcing. Clear Processes (00:18:55) Becca discusses the necessity of documenting regular tasks using a tool called Scribe, simplifying the outsourcing process. Clear Plan and Objectives (00:19:44) The importance of having clear objectives and a marketing calendar for effective outsourcing is highlighted. Marketing Calendar (00:22:22) Becca stresses the need for a marketing calendar to facilitate targeted and effective content creation for outsourcing. Key Performance Indicators (00:26:43) Understanding and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) is essential for monitoring the effectiveness of outsourcing tasks. Recap of Eight Steps (00:31:13) Becca summarizes the eight essential steps for preparing a business for outsourcing tasks, emphasizing the importance of taking it one step at a time.

Today I am welcoming back the head of strategy for Guides for Brides - Nikita Thorne. This time we are not talking about wedding directories - instead we are talking about her recent experience of planning her own wedding, and how it's changed the way she thinks about wedding business marketing. Find out more about Guides for Brides Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.beccapountney.com www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: Instagram vs TikTok (00:00:00) Comparison of social media platforms and potential content strategies. Chat with Nikita (00:01:02) Discussion with Nikita Thorne about wedding planning experiences and changes in views. Budget and Surprises (00:02:34) Reflection on wedding expenses and unexpected investments. Upselling and Trends (00:04:30) Discussion on upselling and last-minute additions to wedding budgets. Initial Wedding Planning Steps (00:06:20) The first steps taken after getting engaged, including guest lists and venue inquiries. Venue Availability (00:09:45) Challenges and ease of obtaining venue availability information. Choosing a Venue (00:11:43) The importance of marketing and customer service in selecting a wedding venue. Narrowing Down Suppliers (00:13:56) Criteria for selecting trustworthy suppliers and the importance of online presence and responsiveness. Supplier Response Time (00:16:57) The impact of fast or slow supplier response times on decision-making. The excitement curve (00:17:43) The diminishing excitement after inquiry and the importance of fast responses. Pricing transparency (00:18:23) The impact of not having prices on listings or websites for wedding services. Importance of timing for reviews (00:23:34) The challenges of leaving reviews after the wedding and the impact of timing on getting reviews. TikTok as a marketing platform (00:28:41) The growing influence of TikTok in wedding planning and its potential impact on marketing strategies. Adapting to new social media trends (00:30:28) The need to adapt to new social media platforms like TikTok for marketing to younger generations. Couples Taking Longer to Inquire (00:35:56) Couples are taking longer to make decisions, impacting the wedding industry's advertising and booking patterns. Changing Trends in Engagement (00:38:23) Engagement and wedding planning trends are shifting, with more spread-out inquiries and a longer-term strategy needed. Utilizing Wedding Planning Platforms (00:41:07) Couples use wedding planning platforms in diverse ways, emphasizing the need for consistent and accessible information. Importance of Transparent Pricing (00:41:42) The significance of transparent pricing and the need to regularly review and synchronize pricing across all advertising platforms.

Today I am chatting with founder of Wedding Dates and Wed Pro Ciara Crossan. Earlier this year Wedding Dates released their 2024 Wedding Industry Report and it was a great read. They surveyed over 1000 couples to find out more about the wedding planning landscape and discovered what frustrates them the most. In this episode I find out more about Ciara's journey and we digest the latest findings and how you can use that data in your own wedding business / venue. Download the 2024 UK Wedding Report Download the 2024 Ireland Wedding Report Find out more about Wedding Dates and Wed Pro Time Stamps: Using TikTok for Wedding Business (00:00:00) Ciara discusses using TikTok for sharing expertise, tips, and personalization in the wedding business. Introduction and Background (00:00:27) Becca introduces Ciara Crossan, CEO and founder of Wedding Dates, and discusses her background and the platform's growth. The Inception of Wedding Dates (00:01:58) Ciara shares the background and inception of Wedding Dates, including the idea's origin and early development. Challenges Faced as a Female Tech Founder (00:05:27) Ciara discusses the challenges she faced as a female tech founder and the resilience required to overcome them. Experience on Dragon's Den (00:09:03) Ciara shares her experience on the Dragon's Den TV show, highlighting the preparation and the positive impact it had on her. Hiring and Building a Team (00:13:07) Ciara discusses the challenges and benefits of hiring and building a team, emphasizing the importance of culture and longevity. Wedding Dates UK Industry Report (00:16:11) Ciara talks about the purpose and history of the industry report, explaining the motivation behind its creation. The survey and report (00:17:02) Ciara discusses the motivation behind conducting surveys and creating industry reports to share with wedding venues and suppliers. The importance of data (00:18:29) Ciara explains the significance of conducting separate reports for the UK and Ireland and the value of the data for understanding industry trends. Incentivising survey participation (00:20:00) Ciara reveals the strategy of offering a prize to incentivize couples to participate in the survey. Couples' feelings during wedding planning (00:21:04) Ciara discusses the surprising statistic that over 70% of couples felt underwhelmed during the wedding planning process and the opportunity it presents for wedding professionals. Common frustrations and challenges (00:26:04) Becca and Ciara discuss common frustrations reported by couples, such as pricing transparency and slow response times, and how wedding pros can address them. Resistance to change (00:29:58) Ciara explains the resistance to automation and price transparency as a fear of change and the importance of self-care in the industry. TikTok for Wedding Inspiration (00:33:16) Couples' use of TikTok for wedding inspiration and how businesses can utilize the platform effectively. Trust Factor in Wedding Businesses (00:34:18) The importance of trust in wedding businesses, particularly in relation to staff turnover in venues. Tech

Today I'm chatting with Wedding Industry legend - Terrica. Not only does she lead a team of planners within her wedding planning business, Cocktails and Details, she's also a powerhouse in the wedding industry speaking world. Her approach to education is to keep it real, which is exactly what we are doing in today's episode. Find out more about Terrica Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.beccapountney.com www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: The journey to becoming a wedding planner (00:01:05) Terrica's background, education, and passion for the wedding industry, and her experiences at wedding conferences. Starting out in the wedding industry (00:02:59) Terrica's decision to become a wedding planner, her first client experience, and the importance of practical experience. Struggles and lessons learned in the wedding planning journey (00:06:18) The struggles of not investing in the business earlier, the importance of brand presence, and the value of feedback and tough love. Personal experiences in wedding planning (00:10:39) Highs and lows of wedding planning, including a memorable wedding and dealing with challenging situations. Challenges faced as an African-American wedding planner (00:14:58) Terrica's experiences and struggles as an African-American wedding planner in the deep south of the USA. Embracing confidence and authenticity (00:16:46) Terrica's transition to being unapologetically herself, the importance of education, and the value of being who she needed when she started. Advice for building confidence in the wedding industry (00:20:24) Terrica's tips and advice for professionals struggling with confidence in their wedding businesses. The comparison syndrome (00:20:30) Discussion on the negative impact of comparing oneself to competitors on social media and the importance of focusing on one's unique strengths. Building competence and confidence (00:21:22) Encouragement to identify and focus on one's unique strengths to build competence and confidence, rather than getting caught up in comparison and imitating others. Diversifying the industry and promoting inclusion (00:28:14) Terrica's passion for diversifying the wedding industry and promoting diversity and inclusion, including her involvement in programs and initiatives to support historically underrepresented individuals. Common pitfalls in wedding planning (00:26:04) Discussion on the common mistake of offering bloated services, leading to lower profits and burnout, and the importance of focusing on maximizing profit with minimal effort. Unity through community initiative (00:30:47) Terrica's initiative aimed at making the wedding industry more diverse and inclusive, providing resources and guidance for promoting diversity and inclusion. Valuing one's worth in the business (00:34:02) The importance of...

Today I'm chatting with Wedding Cake creator and business mentor - Lauren Smy. We talk about her journey to wedding business success and the advice she has for cake makers and new wedding business owners. Lauren also shares her own personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD, and how that has impacted her business. Find out more about Lauren's cake coaching Find out more about Lauren's ADHD coaching Time Stamps: Pricing (00:00:00) Lauren discusses the common mistake of not charging enough to cover the cost of running a business, including time and money spent on behind-the-scenes activities. Introduction and Background (00:01:00) Becca introduces Lauren, founder of The Honeybee Wedding Cake Company, and discusses Lauren's journey in the wedding cake industry. Starting the Cake Business (00:01:52) Lauren shares how she started making cakes for friends during her maternity leave and transitioned into setting up a proper business, Honeybee Bakes, which later evolved into The Honeybee Wedding Cake Company. Transition to Making Wedding Cakes (00:03:37) Lauren explains her transition from making birthday cakes to specializing in wedding cakes, driven by her passion for creating sugar flowers and a desire to focus on the wedding industry. Gaining Confidence in Cake Making (00:04:31) Lauren discusses the challenges and learning experiences she faced when transitioning from making celebration cakes to creating high-quality wedding cakes, emphasizing the importance of confidence and perfectionism. Finding Clients (00:06:59) Lauren shares her early strategies for finding clients, including leveraging social media platforms like Facebook and engaging in word-of-mouth marketing within her local community. Networking and Building Relationships (00:09:22) Lauren highlights the significance of networking with other wedding suppliers and building relationships within the industry, emphasizing the value of word-of-mouth marketing and collaborative partnerships. Transition to Business Coaching (00:10:22) Lauren explains her motivation for transitioning from making cakes to helping other cake makers with their businesses, driven by a desire for community, a background in business studies, and a need to address pricing and confidence issues within the industry. Common Mistakes in Cake Businesses (00:14:16) Lauren discusses common mistakes in cake businesses, focusing on pricing complexities, lack of confidence, and the failure to account for the costs of running a business, including time spent on behind-the-scenes activities. Importance of Photography (00:17:13) Becca and Lauren discuss the significance of high-quality photography for cake makers, emphasizing its impact on attracting clients and the need for professional images to showcase their products effectively. Taking Quality Pictures of Cakes (00:18:03) Tips on capturing high-quality cake photos, including lighting, venue considerations, and collaboration with photographers. Personal Transition and Business Expansion (00:19:53) Lauren's personal journey, discovering her ADHD, and transitioning from coaching cake makers to working with entrepreneurs with ADHD. Formal ADHD Diagnosis (00:22:17) Lauren's decision to seek a formal diagnosis for ADHD and the importance of self-awareness and acceptance. Strategies for Business with ADHD (00:23:27) Discussion on practical strategies and self-compassion...

In this special 100th episode, the tables are turning and I'm being interviewed by Hannah Rose about the highs and lows of the last decade. I share my journey from television to wedding videography and then to marketing, highlighting the challenges and successes along the way. We discuss the inception of the podcast, memorable guests, and there's even some surprise messages too. Thanks for being part of this journey - here's to the next 100 episodes! Time Stamps: Be Yourself (00:00:00) Becca emphasizes the importance of being authentic and confident in marketing. The Journey (00:01:50) Becca shares her background and how she transitioned from television and radio to the wedding industry. Networking and Marketing (00:05:59) Becca discusses her approach to networking and how she transitioned from videography to marketing in the wedding industry. Starting the Podcast (00:08:33) Becca explains the reasons behind starting her podcast and the initial concerns she had. Guest Insights (00:11:09) Becca reflects on the valuable advice and insights gained from her podcast guests. Pinch Me Moments (00:12:21) Becca shares two memorable moments from her podcast journey, including meeting a well-known Instagram expert. Staying Positive (00:14:01) Becca discusses her positive outlook, personality traits, and how she maintains positivity in her personal and professional life. Personal and Professional Balance (00:16:59) Becca reflects on whether she is the same person at home and at work, emphasizing consistency in her personality. Being True to Yourself (00:17:11) Becca discusses her consistent personality and how she encourages her children to pursue their dreams. Motivation Beyond Money (00:18:16) Becca shares her spiritual beliefs and how they drive her to be generous and make a positive impact. Finding Strength in Faith (00:20:26) Becca recounts a spiritual experience in Cyprus and the impact of faith during challenging times. Dealing with Business Setbacks (00:21:37) Becca reflects on trusting others, facing business challenges, and learning from difficult experiences. Navigating the Impact of COVID-19 (00:23:51) Becca shares the emotional toll of COVID-19 on the wedding industry and her efforts to support her community. Maintaining Authenticity in Business (00:27:49) Becca discusses the challenges of staying true to herself in an industry driven by monetary success. Balancing Chaos and Work (00:30:14) Becca reveals the chaotic nature of her daily life and the importance of time management. Future Plans and Goals (00:32:06) Becca announces her plan to write a book and sets a hard deadline for its completion. Top Tip for Business Success (00:33:41) Becca emphasizes the importance of authenticity in achieving success in business. The importance of being yourself (00:33:52) Encouragement to embrace individuality and stop using it as an excuse for lack of success. Visibility and self-promotion (00:34:53) Advice on the importance of showcasing one's achievements and skills in the wedding industry. Comparing oneself to others (00:35:49) Discussion on the dangers of comparing oneself to others and the value of self-assessment and progress tracking. Celebrating Becca's 100th episode (00:36:32) Messages from colleagues and friends congratulating Becca on her podcast's milestone and expressing gratitude for her...

Today I am chatting to Bridal Makeup artist and conflict resolution expert Jen Trotter. We talk though her story from solo makeup artist to building a team as Lip Service Makeup and she shares her expect tips on handling tricky wedding clients. Jen advises on handling client frustrations, avoiding defensiveness, and using empathetic phrases. She also cautions against over-apologising and discounting services. It's a great episode with so many practical tips and pieces of advice. Find out more about Jen Trotter Time Stamps: Building a Bridal Beauty Team (00:00:00) Starting a bridal beauty team and the importance of gradual growth and course correction. Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:29) Becca Pountney introduces the podcast and its focus on actionable tips and strategies for wedding business owners. Jen Trotter's Background (00:01:37) Jen Trotter's introduction and her experience as a bridal beauty expert in Dallas, Texas. Skincare and Sun Allergy (00:01:58) Jen Trotter's skincare secret and her avoidance of the sun due to allergies. Transition to Bridal Makeup (00:03:25) Jen Trotter's transition from modeling and TV presenting to becoming a professional makeup artist, particularly in the wedding industry. Working with a Team (00:07:59) Jen Trotter's decision to build a team for her bridal beauty business and the process of transitioning from full-time work to focusing on her business. Recruiting and Quality Control (00:11:58) Strategies for building and maintaining a reliable and high-quality team for a bridal beauty business. Importance of Communication and Conflict Management (00:15:10) Jen Trotter's expertise in communication and conflict resolution, emphasizing the significance of managing communication and reducing conflict in a business. Practical Ideas for Managing Conflict (00:20:12) Advice on identifying and addressing potential sources of conflict and chaos in a business, focusing on improving processes and customer experiences. Fixing Issues in Contracts (00:20:58) Jen discusses the importance of addressing contract issues and the need for a toolbox to handle client issues effectively. Dealing with Client Frustrations (00:22:07) Jen explains the importance of addressing client frustrations and providing reassurance and solutions. Differentiating Real and Fake Problems (00:22:58) Jen discusses the need to differentiate between real and fake problems and how to handle them effectively. Managing Emotions and Communication (00:25:55) Jen emphasizes the importance of managing emotions, using effective communication, and avoiding unnecessary apologies. Utilizing Manipulation for Positive Outcomes (00:32:27) Jen shares phrases and strategies to manipulate conversations positively and influence client perceptions. Avoiding Over-Apologizing and Using Effective Communication (00:36:09) Jen advises on avoiding over-apologizing and using alternative phrases to communicate effectively with clients. Differentiating Us and Them Problems (00:40:45) Jen discusses the need to take responsibility for client relationships and differentiate between genuine client issues and toxic clients. Jerk Clients and Communication Issues (00:42:39) Dealing with difficult clients and recognizing communication issues in business. Learning...

Today I am sharing the insights that have come out of the latest UK Wedding Report from Bridebook and the Knots recent proposal report. I am looking at the date to answer the question what do wedding couples want in 2024? Download the full UK Wedding Report Download the Knot Proposal report Want help getting in front of couples? Take my FREE visibility Bootcamp. Time Stamps: Introduction to industry reports (00:00:00) Explanation of the importance of industry reports and the intention to analyze two specific reports. Caveats of reading industry reports (00:00:53) Guidance on how to interpret industry reports and the potential biases in the data. Insights from UK Wedding Report 2024 (00:03:16) Highlights from the UK Wedding Report, including increased wedding spending, the influence of Gen Z, and the importance of Instagram for couples. Importance of price transparency (00:06:04) Emphasis on the significance of price transparency for wedding business and the impact on couples' decision-making. The role of personality in decision-making (00:08:58) Discussion on the importance of personality and comfort with suppliers, outweighing price considerations for couples. Personalization trend (00:10:02) The increasing importance of personalization in weddings and the potential for wedding businesses to offer personalized services. Shift in wedding day preferences (00:11:00) Insights into the declining popularity of Saturday weddings and the opportunities for wedding businesses in weekday weddings. Challenges for couples and simplifying the process (00:12:51) Identification of pricing and overwhelm as significant challenges for couples and the need to simplify the booking process. Sources for finding suppliers (00:15:32) Insights into the main sources used by couples to find wedding suppliers, including Google, social media, and word of mouth. Empowering Couples (00:16:18) Tips for empowering couples to share and recommend wedding businesses through gifts, networking, and word-of-mouth. Sustainability in Weddings (00:17:12) The increasing importance of sustainability in weddings, including eco-conscious choices and the need for businesses to promote sustainability efforts. Destination Weddings (00:18:33) The rising popularity of destination weddings, particularly in Italy, and the opportunities it presents for businesses in this market. Proposal Trends (00:20:21) The growing trend of pre-engagement wedding planning and the increasing demand for elaborate proposals, creating potential opportunities for wedding suppliers. Pricing and Social Media Presence (00:22:15) The importance of transparent pricing, addressing overwhelm, and maintaining a strong online presence to attract potential clients. Mentioned in this episode: Join the FREE 'Get Visible and Book More Weddings' audio bootcamp now Feeling stuck? This free training is designed to help you revaluate your wedding business and move forwards towards more bookings. Sign up for free here: https://go.beccapountney.com/bootcamp Audio bootcamp

Today I'm chatting with Ben Chernivsky, a wedding photographer and founder of Gifyyy, a portable photo booth company. Ben shares his journey from disinterest in weddings to becoming a successful wedding photographer and entrepreneur. He discusses the challenges of work-life balance, his midlife awakening, and the importance of living authentically. Ben reflects on his work addiction, and his decision to prioritize family. Today we go deep into many subjects that some of you may find difficult, so please take care whilst listening. Find out more about Gifyyy Follow Ben on Instagram Visit Head Heart Man on Instagram Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.beccapountney.com www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: The intro (00:00:00) Becca Pountney sets the stage for a deep and important conversation, addressing potential triggers and encouraging open dialogue about mental health. Introduction of Ben (00:01:10) Becca introduces Ben, a wedding photographer and the founder of Gifyyy, a portable photo booth, and expresses excitement about their conversation. Ben's journey into wedding photography (00:02:39) Ben shares his unexpected entry into the wedding photography industry and his initial disinterest in weddings, leading to his eventual passion for the craft. Growth of Ben's wedding photography business (00:06:56) Ben discusses the expansion of his wedding photography business, including the number of weddings and photo booth rentals, and the balance with family life. Building a team (00:07:59) Ben emphasizes the importance of teamwork and the need for a team to achieve success in the wedding industry, acknowledging the support he received from mentors and coaches. The decision to take on a team (00:09:15) Becca and Ben discuss the pivotal moment when Ben realized he needed to expand his team due to overwhelming demand and the emotional toll of turning down opportunities. Taking responsibility for business decisions (00:12:49) Ben emphasizes the importance of taking full responsibility for the decisions made in one's business, particularly when hiring and managing a team. Creation of Gifyyy (00:15:21) Ben shares the conscious decision to commit to the wedding industry for ten years and the development of Gifyyy, a portable photo booth, as a specialized addition to his photography business. The journey of Gifyyy (00:19:22) Ben discusses the portability and success of his Gifyyy photo booth business, its global reach, and his approach to managing it as a side hustle. Personal and professional transitions (00:20:36) Ben reflects on his life plan, goals, and the significant changes and self-discovery he experienced around the age of 35-40, including examining his family...

Today I'm chatting with Jessica Bishop, the founder of The Budget Savvy Bride, about the importance of price transparency in the wedding industry and why budget-savvy doesn't mean cheap. We dispel the myths associated with budget weddings and chat about the benefits of vendors being transparent with their pricing to avoid misunderstandings with potential clients. We talk about the value of sharing expertise, networking, and considering free marketing opportunities to reach the right audience. Find out more about the Budget Savvy Bride Listen to the Bouquet Toss Podcast Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.beccapountney.com www.instagram.com/beccapountney Transparency and Pricing (00:00:00) Importance of transparency in pricing and dispelling misconceptions about budget weddings. Introduction to Jessica Bishop (00:00:57) Becca introduces Jessica Bishop, founder of The Budget Savvy Bride, and her website's purpose. Jessica's Wedding Planning Experience (00:02:06) Jessica shares her personal experience planning a budget-friendly wedding during the recession and creating The Budget Savvy Bride website. Evolution of The Budget Savvy Bride (00:03:34) The evolution of The Budget Savvy Bride website and its resources for couples, including real wedding galleries and free printables. Vendor Directory and Services (00:06:38) Introduction of the vendor directory, the Savvy Wedding Guide, and the aim to connect couples with vendors. Dispelling Myths About Budget Weddings (00:07:18) Clarifying that being budget-savvy does not mean being cheap and the importance of making informed financial decisions. Serving Budget-Conscious Couples (00:10:32) Discussing ways for vendors to serve budget-conscious couples without undervaluing their services. Importance of Price Transparency (00:15:13) Emphasizing the importance of price transparency for vendors and the benefits it offers to both vendors and couples. Displaying Prices for Couples (00:18:21) Suggestions for vendors to display starting prices or average investment to pre-qualify couples. Transparency in Pricing (00:18:55) Importance of public pricing to avoid awkward situations and ghosting, and the potential embarrassment for couples. Real Wedding Cost Breakdown (00:20:13) Detailed breakdown of wedding costs, the granular approach, and the value of transparency for vendors and couples. Revolutionizing Styled Shoots (00:22:02) Advocating for price breakdowns in styled shoots to provide realistic cost expectations for couples. Budget Savvy Marketing for Wedding Pros (00:26:24) Tips for budget-savvy marketing, including working with niche publications, free promotion strategies, and leveraging affiliate relationships. Expanding Vendor...

Today isn't about the shiny side of your wedding business, today I'm drawing back the curtain on some of the darker sides of the wedding industry. I share my own learnings on all sorts of topics from rejection, negative reviews, betrayal, copycats and more. This is the stuff that doesn't get talked about enough but yet it's likely at some point you will experience some of it. If something from this episode resonates with you? Reach out and let me know, you don't need to do business alone! Want an amazing, inclusive wedding business community to be part of? Take a look at the Wedding pro members lounge - a place where you can be yourself. Find out more about the members lounge. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.beccapountney.com www.instagram.com/beccapountney Crickets: Facing Slow Inquiries (00:01:03) Strategies for handling slow business inquiries and staying proactive. Disappointment: Dealing with Rejection (00:02:55) Coping with disappointment when opportunities or clients do not go as expected. Complaints: Managing Negative Feedback (00:09:05) Strategies for handling complaints from clients and dealing with negative reviews. Copycats: Dealing with Imitation (00:14:23) Understanding and coping with situations where competitors imitate or copy ideas. Dealing with Negative Experiences (00:18:42) Speaker shares personal experiences of feeling let down and discusses the importance of protecting oneself from negative situations. Protecting Yourself in Business (00:19:31) Strategies for protecting oneself in business, including setting boundaries, trusting gut feelings, and building confidence. Personal Situations Taking Over (00:24:06) Managing unexpected personal situations that impact business, including health issues, loss, and relationship problems. Making Poor Financial Decisions (00:29:46) Discussing the reality of making poor financial decisions in business and offering advice on learning from mistakes and budgeting. Exhaustion and Burnout (00:32:35) Addressing the issue of exhaustion and burnout in business, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and taking time off. Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro members lounge Find out more about the wedding pro members lounge: https://go.beccapountney.com/wedpro

Today I'm chatting with Wedding Planning Coach Megan Gilliken about how to set healthy wedding client boundaries. A self proclaimed 'people pleaser' Megan has had her fair share of unhealthy working relationships, and now wants to share her story of how she made changes in her own wedding planning business. We explore strategies for boundary-setting in your wedding business and stress the importance of maintaining professionalism, even when dealing with difficult clients or negative reviews. Links mentioned in the episode: Boundary Setting Toolkit Episode 62: How to Respond to Negative Online Reviews Episode 226: Is it you or is it them? How to know when to fire “THAT” client Find out more about Megan here Follow Megan on Instagram Time stamps: Boundaries and Client Experience (00:00:00) Importance of setting boundaries to serve clients well and maintain longevity in the industry. Introduction to Megan Gillikin (00:00:34) Background of Megan Gillikin, former wedding planner, and founder of The Planners Vault. Megan's Journey into Wedding Planning (00:03:57) Unexpectedly purchasing a wedding planning business and the challenges faced in rebuilding the brand. Overcoming Boundary Challenges (00:07:47) Mistakes made due to being a people pleaser and the impact on client relationships and work-life balance. Strategies for Implementing Boundaries: Website (00:10:54) Using website messaging and an FAQ section to attract ideal clients and repel non-ideal clients. Strategies for Implementing Boundaries: Contract (00:13:18) Incorporating professional vendor, communication, client abuse, and availability clauses into the contract. Strategies for Implementing Boundaries: Onboarding (00:16:07) Utilizing welcome guides and videos to set expectations and communicate boundaries with new clients. Strategies for Implementing Boundaries: Self and Mindset (00:18:35) Reflecting on personal boundaries, identifying challenges, and implementing a quarterly reboot to maintain boundaries. Setting Boundaries with Clients (00:21:07) Strategies for setting boundaries with clients, including communication methods and managing client expectations. Emotional Investment in Clients (00:22:22) Managing emotional investment in clients, maintaining professionalism, and setting boundaries to avoid becoming overly involved. Firing a Client (00:26:51) Strategies for handling difficult clients, including the decision to fire a client, contractual considerations, and managing negative reviews. Responding to Negative Reviews (00:32:01) Dealing with negative reviews, professional responses, and understanding the impact of negative feedback on the business. Learning to Focus on Personal Growth (00:37:36) Advice on overcoming imposter syndrome and focusing on personal growth in the wedding business industry. Resources for Setting Boundaries (00:38:45) Information about a boundary setting toolkit and other resources for wedding...

Today I'm chatting with Catherine Ramm, owner of Dorset Dried Flowers, as she discusses her personal experiences as a second-time bride. We delve into the importance of inclusivity and empathy within the industry, particularly for second-time brides and older couples. Catherine shares anecdotes from her own wedding, highlighting the emotional and practical challenges she faced, and we discuss how these experiences can inform and help wedding pros offer a better solution. Find out more about Catherine here: https://www.dorsetdriedflowers.co.uk/ Follow Catherine on Instagram Time stamps: The celebration of second marriages (00:00:00) Embracing second marriages, considering ideal clients, and celebrating love at any age. Introduction to the podcast (00:00:32) Becca Pountney introduces the "Wedding Pros Who Are Ready to Grow" podcast and its purpose. Catherine's journey into the wedding industry (00:01:50) Catherine Ramm shares her accidental entry into the wedding industry and the start of her dried flower business. Finding the first wedding client (00:03:16) Catherine's first wedding client found her on Etsy, leading to her first wedding styling experience. Challenges and joys of serving clients nationwide (00:05:20) Catherine discusses the mix of local and nationwide wedding styling, highlighting the challenges and joys. Catherine's love story and recent marriage (00:06:45) Catherine shares the heartwarming story of meeting her now-husband and their unique proposal and wedding experience. Navigating the wedding industry as a second-time bride (00:09:58) Catherine discusses the challenges and experiences of being a second-time bride in the wedding industry. The wedding dress experience (00:12:08) Catherine shares her positive experiences and the importance of being open-minded when choosing a wedding dress. Negative experiences in wedding planning (00:15:05) Catherine recounts a negative experience during the wedding registry appointment and the impact it had on her and her partner. Learnings for wedding professionals (00:19:19) Becca reflects on the shared experiences and emphasizes the importance of understanding and accommodating diverse couples in the wedding industry. Understanding the Overwhelm (00:20:00) The importance of understanding and empathizing with overwhelmed wedding couples. Learning from the Client Experience (00:21:16) Insights gained from being a bride and how it can improve one's own wedding business. Sticking to Your Vision (00:23:14) Encouraging brides to be assertive in making their wedding their own, learning from past regrets. Communication and Expectations (00:25:09) The need for clear communication and asking the right questions to understand the couple's vision. Representation and Niche Market (00:26:09) The importance of representing diverse demographics in the wedding industry and identifying niche markets. Support for Second-Time Brides (00:29:24) The value of providing support and resources for individuals getting married for the second time.

Today I'm chatting with one of my wedding pro members - Sam Gavins. Sam has been a wedding photographer for the last ten years, and today we dive deep into her story. We discuss Sam's journey from nursing to photography, her initial struggles with the business aspect of the industry, and how the Wedding Pro Members Club helped her overcome these challenges. Sam also shares her experiences in getting on recommended supplier lists and building relationships with wedding event coordinators. Listen to hear more about Sam and the lessons learnt from 10 years as a wedding photographer. Find out more about Sam Find Sam on Instagram Join the Wedding Pro Members Lounge Time stamps: The start of the business side (00:00:21) Discussion about the challenges and hurdles of the business side of being a wedding photographer. Getting into photography and early experiences (00:01:48) Sam's love for photography from a young age, her experience with photography in school, and receiving her first proper camera. Transition from nurse to photographer (00:03:44) Sam's decision to pursue photography as a business after having children and encouragement from others, overcoming imposter syndrome. The struggle of affording equipment (00:09:41) Sam discusses the challenge of not having enough money to buy her own camera equipment and having to borrow lenses from a friend's film business. The importance of investing in education and community (00:10:56) Becca and Sam discuss the significance of continuously learning and stretching oneself in the wedding photography industry. Building relationships with venues to get on recommended supply lists (00:13:38) Sam shares her strategy of offering help and building relationships with venues to get on their recommended supply lists. The Future of Sam's Business (00:19:43) Sam discusses her plans and aspirations for the future of her photography business, including a desire to go to Las Vegas and continue doing what she loves. The Challenges of Next Year (00:20:39) Becca encourages listeners not to lose hope for the upcoming year, despite the challenges many are facing. She advises against dropping prices and emphasizes the potential for big budget weddings in the future. The Importance of Support and Asking for Help (00:21:26) Sam highlights the value of joining a business group for support and knowledge, as well as the importance of asking for help and not being afraid of rejection. Becca reinforces the idea of asking for opportunities and collaborating with others in the industry. Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro members lounge Find out more about the wedding pro members lounge: https://go.beccapountney.com/wedpro

Today I'm chatting with Jenae Cartwright of Cake and Crumble about navigating your wedding business niche. When Jenae's daughter was diagnosed with celiac disease she started on a mission to find delicious treats that were safe for her to eat. In 2016 she launched a gluten free only bakery 'Cake and Crumble'. In this episode we talk about how to own your niche and hear how Jenae has done exactly that. The Cost of Being an Entrepreneur (00:00:00) Discussion on the hidden costs of being an entrepreneur, including the impact on personal life and mental health. Introduction and Background (00:01:03) Becca introduces Jenae as the founder of Cake and Crumble, a gluten-free bakery, and shares their meeting in Las Vegas. Meeting in Las Vegas (00:02:08) Jenae and Becca discuss their unexpected meeting in Las Vegas and the excitement of recognizing each other.. The first coffee shop experience (00:11:39) Jenae talks about her first interaction with a coffee shop owner, convincing her to try her gluten-free baked goods. Approaching cafes and growing wholesale business (00:12:30) Jenae shares her advice on how to approach cafes and grow the wholesale side of the business. Becoming the go-to person for gluten-free baking (00:14:37) Becca and Jenae discuss the importance of finding a niche and becoming known as the expert, using Jenae's gluten-free baking as an example. The importance of personal development (00:22:44) Jenae discusses how personal development has been crucial for her business growth and overcoming imposter syndrome. Dealing with competitors and building a sense of community (00:24:05) Jenae shares her perspective on competition, celebrating other bakers' success, and the importance of community over competition. Future plans and focusing on wedding cakes (00:29:06) Jenae talks about her plans for the future, including focusing on luxury wedding cakes, traveling with wedding cakes, and potentially teaching. Next Steps (00:30:45) - Moving into the education realm Jenae discusses her desire to move into the education realm, specifically focusing on creating a series on how to approach people and sit at a restaurant when living with gluten intolerance. (00:32:12) - Super cook idea Becca and Jenae brainstorm the idea of Jenae becoming a "super cook" who advises and helps people in the gluten-free world. (00:35:35) - Balancing cost and self-worth as a business owner Jenae talks about the importance of balancing the cost of running a business with caring for one's self-worth as a business owner and artist.