Join me LIVE on Facebook and LinkedIn on Thursday, May 1, at 1:00 PM EDT where I will interview Doug C. Brown about how to TURN LOST SALES INTO WINS: LEARN HOW STRATEGIC FOLLOW-UPS RECOVER WHAT’S LOST AND UNLOCK FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES FOR HIGH-VALUE DEALS.

Doug C. Brown is the founder of CEO Sales Strategies and a renowned Sales Revenue and Profit Growth Expert. Over his career, Doug has founded or built 35-plus businesses, collectively generating over $960 million in sales for himself and his clients. As the creator of a predictable, reliable, measurable math-based model for sales revenue growth, he has helped businesses achieve remarkable outcomes, including raising close rates by 143% and boosting product sales by over 4,150%. Additionally, he is the creator of Vibitno, a SaaS platform that helps people stay in connection, recover lost relationships, and gain future sales and relationships through automated personalized, relevant, and meaningful follow-up.

In my interview with Doug, we will learn: 

• why follow-up is considered a critical component for achieving success in the event industry (or any industry), and what common pitfalls event professionals encounter when neglecting this step;
• what ways consistent follow-up directly impacts client retention and helps build long-term relationships with vendors and partners;
• the key steps business professionals should take to develop a systematic follow-up process that ensures every potential lead or opportunity is nurtured effectively;
• how to balance the use of automation tools with personalized communication to create a follow-up strategy that feels efficient and genuine;
• innovative follow-up tactics that significantly boost the conversion rate of leads into clients; and    
• so much more! 

If you are not connected with me on my FB page, please connect at https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions or on LinkedIn @annettenaif.

We look forward to seeing you Thursday!  

Connect with Doug C. Brown:

Websites: https://ceosalesstrategies.com/

https://vibitno.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dougcbrown123/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougbrown123/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dougcbrown_/

Masterclass on May 15, 2025- Creating Follow Up That Converts Into Sales and Relationships: https://ceosalesstrategies.com/stoptheleak

Connect with Annette Naif:

Website: https://www.naifproductions.com/​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annettenaif/

Event Planners Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/eventplannerssociety

Cheers!  

Annette

Join me LIVE on Facebook and LinkedIn on Thursday, February 27 at 1:00 PM EDT where I will interview Wendy Kay about CULTIVATING A CURATED CREATIVE TEAM.

Thriving on creating something from nothing, Wendy welcomes the creative challenge and complex logistics required to (literally) build an event from the ground up. From design conception to collaborating with the creative team and directing the day-of execution, Wendy respects each stage of the wedding planning process, considering the journey just as important as the destination.

A former television producer, Wendy transferred her talents from directing live TV to weddings. Over a decade since creating Birds of a Feather events, she continues to lean on her problem-resolving skills while remaining quick on her feet on event days.

Named a Top Wedding Planner and Event Designer by Martha Stewart Weddings and Best Wedding Planner in America by BRIDES, Wendy really is an “Idea Machine.” Whether cozy interiors, artful window displays, or wizardly worlds, Wendy uses her love of set design as inspiration to translate the stories of her clients through unexpected details.

Wendy's clients connect to her calm demeanor, sharp wit, and surprising knowledge of pop culture. A diplomatic straight shooter, she guides her clients through potentially sticky situations with transparency, tact, and, most importantly--humor.

Today, after 15 years of owning her own planning and design business, much of Wendy’s time is focused on educating other vendors on best business practices to transform their own businesses through honesty and “tough love”.

In my interview with Wendy, we will learn:

🔸what it means to have a curated creative team;

🔸what the key qualities are to look for in a wedding planner’s dream team;

🔸how to balance artistic vision with logistical expertise when selecting team members;

🔸how to create an environment where your event team feels inspired and motivated;

🔸what role team chemistry plays in event success and how to cultivate it; and

🔸so much more!

If you are not connected with me on my FB page, please connect at https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions or on LinkedIn @annettenaif.

We look forward to seeing you Thursday!

Connect with Wendy Kay:

Website: www.birdsofafeatherevents.com

Instagram: @birdsofafeatherevents

Connect with Annette Naif:

Website: https://www.naifproductions.com/​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annettenaif/

Event Planners Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/eventplannerssociety

Cheers!

Annette

Join me LIVE on Facebook and LinkedIn on Thursday January 23 at 1:00 PM EDT where I will interview Amanda Sherlip about PLANNING SUCCESSFUL NON-PROFIT AND SMALL BUSINESS EVENTS.

Amanda Sherlip is the Founder and Principal of Avant Grand Consulting and is the outgoing Executive Director with Hands Across the Sea. With two decades of experience spanning philanthropic leadership, entrepreneurship, and executive management, Amanda brings her multifaceted expertise to helping nonprofits, start-ups, and small businesses achieve transformative growth. She is known for her strategic acumen, creative problem-solving, and consistent ability to deliver meaningful outcomes.

In my interview with Amanda, we will learn:

-what role board members play in helping to bring success to fundraising for events;

-how consultants work with board members to help them feel comfortable through the fundraising and network building process;

-what kind of goals to set for fundraisers;

-some ways events play into strategic planning and fundraising for a nonprofit;

-how events can make a difference in helping to achieve goals and increase revenue for a for-profit; and

-so much more!

If you are not connected with me on my FB page, please connect at https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions or on LinkedIn @annettenaif.

We look forward to seeing you Thursday!

Connect with Amanda Sherlip:

Website: www.avantgrandconsulting.com

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/amandasherlip/

Connect with Annette Naif:

Website: https://www.naifproductions.com/​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annettenaif/

Event Planners Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/eventplannerssociety

Cheers!

Annette

Join me on Facebook and LinkedIn on Thursday November 7 at 1:00 PM EST where I will interview Annie McAllister about THE GUEST EXPERIENCE- MORE THAN JUST A PHOTO OP.

Annie brings a wealth of expertise with 14 years of dedicated experience in event production, positioning her as an invaluable asset to the 15|40 family. Her professional journey encompasses a diverse range of projects, from large-scale extravaganzas to intimate gatherings, making her a seasoned professional in the world of event management. Her comprehensive background spans the realms of broadcast, streaming, and music festivals, where she has demonstrated her prowess in overseeing projects at some of today's most coveted live events and premieres. Annie’s multifaceted skill set extends to various spaces, including conferences, award shows, fundraisers, experiential activations, brand launches, hospitality design, and large-scale live events.

In her role, Annie places a strong emphasis on overarching project management, design, and client relations, ensuring a seamless and exceptional experience for all stakeholders involved. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, she has cultivated enduring relationships in the industry. Her collaborative approach, strategic vision, and commitment to delivering unparalleled results have consistently elevated the experiences of both clients and attendees alike. Her dog, Benny and her cat, Pickle are both pretty neat too.

In my interview with Annie, we will learn:

- how she would define a great Guest Experience;

- how to respond when a client asks for a ‘WOW’ moment;

- an example of a WOW experience;

- if there is a starting place of inspiration when building the concept of an event;

- which area of the Guest Experience is the most critical to get right; and

- so much more!

If you are not connected with me on my FB page, please connect at https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions or on LinkedIn @annettenaif.

Links-

Connect with Annie McAllister

Website: https://www.1540productions.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/15l40/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1540productions/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@1540creative/featured

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/15-40-productions/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@1540creative

Twitter: https://twitter.com/1540creative

Connect with Annette Naif:

Website: https://www.naifproductions.com/​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annettenaif/

Event Planners Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/eventplannerssociety

Cheers!

Annette

Join me on Facebook and LinkedIn on Thursday, October 31 at 1:00 PM EST where I will interview Brandon Leibowitz about MASTERING SEO, SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING, & GOOGLE ADS: ESSENTIAL STRATEGIES TO BOOST YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE.

Brandon Leibowitz has been running and operating SEO Optimizers since 2007. It is a digital marketing company that focuses on helping small and medium-sized businesses get more online traffic, which in turn converts into clients, sales, leads, etc.

In my interview with Brandon, we will learn:

-how to optimize your website for conversions;

-what SEO strategies work;

-how to research keywords;

-techniques for competitor analysis;

-why paid ads are important; and

-so much more!

If you are not connected with me on my FB page, please connect at https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions or on LinkedIn @annettenaif.

Connect with Brandon Leibowitz:

Website: https://seooptimizers.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/brandonleibowitz/videos

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonleibowitz/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leibowitzbrandon/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandonLeibs

Twitter: https://twitter.com/brandonleibs

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/brandonleibowitz/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brandonleibowitz

Connect with Annette Naif:

Website: https://www.naifproductions.com/​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annettenaif/

Event Planners Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/eventplannerssociety

We look forward to seeing you Thursday!

Cheers!

Annette

Join me on Facebook and LinkedIn on Thursday, October 24 at 1:00 PM EST where I will interview Maria Bayer about IRRESISTIBLE SELLING: MASTERING THE ART OF HIGH-VALUE BOOKINGS.

Maria Bayer is a leading sales and mindset strategist for wedding and event professionals who want to book next-level clients and scale their businesses to multi 6- and 7-figures. She teaches a modern sales approach that empowers clients to connect authentically, command top dollar, and achieve rapid results. Her clients often see a 2-10x sales increase within a year, transforming both their businesses and their belief in what’s possible.

As the creator of Irresistible Selling, Maria offers forward-thinking strategies for fast, sustainable growth without chasing or being salesy. With over $25 million in personal sales and a background negotiating with industry giants like Target and Best Buy, she equips her clients with advanced strategies that go beyond traditional wedding industry teachings, giving them a competitive edge.

A sought-after speaker, Maria has shared her expertise at top industry events and with organizations such as WIPA, ILEA, ABC, Be Sage, The Wedding Pro CEO Summit, Sarah Does SEO, Rock Paper Coin, Refine Collective, and many more, as well as corporate workshops and training sessions. Through her community, speaking engagements, and authorship, Maria is elevating the wedding industry by raising the bar on what business owners can charge and how much they can earn.

In my interview with Maria, we will learn:

-her philosophy and how she helps wedding pros step into the next-level market;

-the biggest myth wedding pros believe about selling that keeps them stuck at their current level, and how they can shift their mindset to break into the luxury market;

-how she teaches wedding pros to sell authentically while commanding premium prices;

-why the slow season is the ideal time to invest in sales skills to break into the luxury market;

-advice she gives people dealing with challenges at a higher price point; and

-so much more!

If you are not connected with me on my FB page, please connect at https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions or on LinkedIn @annettenaif.

Links-

Connect with Maria Bayer:

Website: https://www.mariabayer.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/MariaBayer1

Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/groups/learncollaborateflourish

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MariaBayerFan

Free offer: For a fast infusion of sales: Take the Book A Client in 5 Days Challenge >> http://bookaclientchallenge.com/

Connect with Annette Naif:

Website: https://www.naifproductions.com/​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annettenaif/

Event Planners Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/eventplannerssociety

We look forward to seeing you Thursday!

Cheers!

Annette

Join me on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram October 10 at 1:00 PM EST where I will interview Jessica Stewart about BRINGING PLANNERS TOGETHER AT THE EVENT PLANNER EXPO IN NYC.

Jessica Stewart embarked on her career journey with a Communications Degree as a graduate of the University of Massachusetts. She went on to assume positions at two of the most prestigious cosmetic companies, Estee Lauder and later Chanel, where she devoted 11 years to developing her sales administration skills. In 2008, she joined EMRG Media and realized her true calling.

As the Sales Executive for EMRG Media, Jessica Stewart helped transform The Event Planner Expo to be the leading conference in the US. for the events and hospitality industry. This B2B conference has over 2,500 attendees including companies like Google, JP Morgan, Blackrock, Wieden + Kennedy, Big Brothers, Estee Lauder and more.

Jessica has shared the stage with Daymond John, Mel Robbins, Gary Vaynerchuk, Jesse Itzler, Sharon Lechter, Martha Stewart and many other Keynote Speakers, Celebrities & Entrepreneurs.

Today, Jessica Stewart serves as the Vice President of Marketing & Sales for EMRG Media and The Event Planner Expo. And she continues to impact the lives of others, sharing her experiences and inspiration.

In my interview with Jessica, we will learn:

-what made her get into the events industry;

-what inspired her company to start the Event Planner Expo, and how it has evolved over the years;

-what makes the Event Planner Expo unique compared to other industry events;

-how events foster meaningful connections and strategic partnerships, and why that is so important in today’s business landscape;

-more about the keynote speakers, like Tim Grover, Sharon Gai and David Stark, and what attendees can learn from them; and

-so much more!

Hope you enjoy the episode!

Join Me At The Event Planner Expo 2024

October 15th - 17th

TheEventPlannerExpo.com

The Event Planner Expo is the leading event for event professionals to mix and mingle, network, learn and to be inspired. Make new connections and event partners while learning from some of the best in the events industry. Find out more at: TheEventPlannerExpo.com

REGISTER FOR YOUR TICKET AND SAVE 20%

Attend 1 Day or All 3 Days and Save on Your Ticket

USE PROMO CODE: AnnetteN20

Cheers!

Annette

Join me on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram Thursday, September 12 at 1:00 PM EST where I will interview Cameron Forbes @forbesfunctions about THE BACKEND OF BUSINESS - THE NOT SO FUN STUFF NO ONE TALKS ABOUT.

Cameron Forbes is the visionary founder of Forbes Functions, where exceptional event planning meets the pulse of New York City. At Forbes Functions, Cameron leverages her extensive network of vendors as well as her female team, to curate bespoke experiences for her clients. Her flair for hosting, coupled with an innovative approach, has positioned her as a leading tastemaker in the event planning scene. Under her guidance, Forbes Functions is not just planning events; it’s crafting unforgettable moments and trendsetting celebrations that resonate with elegance and exclusivity. 

In my interview with Cameron, we will learn: 

-what some of the biggest challenges are as an event planner behind the scenes;

-how to manage the logistics of multiple vendors, contracts, and timelines to ensure a smooth event;

-how to handle difficult clients or situations while maintaining professionalism and delivering a successful event;

-what strategies to use to stay organized and keep track of all the details involved in planning a wedding or event;

-how to manage client expectations regarding timelines and deliverables; and

-so much more!

If you are not connected with me on my FB page, please connect at https://lnkd.in/dtME4UB or on LinkedIn @annettenaif.

Enjoy the episode!

Looking to stay ahead in the wedding planning game? "A Turn of Events" brings you the latest scoop on the top wedding trends for 2024 with host Annette Naif, CEO and Creative Director of Naif Productions. In this episode, Annette, a seasoned expert based in New York City and creator of the Event Planning Academy, shares her insights into the evolving nature of the wedding industry, catering to the diverse and modern tastes of couples.

Annette dives into the realm of sustainable celebrations, a growing trend where eco-conscious choices are becoming a priority for couples. Think locally sourced food, biodegradable decor, and digital invitations. These green solutions are not just thoughtful but are setting the standard for future weddings.

The shift towards intimate and personalized experiences is reshaping the wedding scene. Annette discusses how smaller gatherings are focusing on creating unique experiences, reflecting the couple's story in every detail. Alongside this, she explores the rise of technology integration in weddings. From virtual reality experiences for guests to interactive digital guestbooks, tech is adding a futuristic touch to traditional celebrations.

Bold and unconventional wedding attire is another trend on the rise. Annette talks about how couples are moving away from traditional norms, embracing colorful suits, non-white dresses, and personalized accessories to express their individuality. When it comes to venues, the trend is steering away from the conventional. Art galleries, historic mansions, and natural settings like beaches and forests are becoming favored choices for their distinctive ambiance.

Annette also sheds light on the culinary front. Fusion menus that blend different cultural cuisines are becoming increasingly popular, celebrating the union of diverse backgrounds. Mindfulness and well-being are also playing a crucial role, with elements like wellness retreats and yoga sessions becoming part of the wedding itinerary.

Interactive entertainment options are evolving too. Annette predicts more innovative choices like virtual reality games and live painting in 2024. Even wedding transportation is getting an eco-friendly makeover with options like electric cars and bicycles. Extended celebrations are becoming a norm, transforming weddings from a single-day event to a multi-day experience. This allows couples to spend more quality time with guests, especially those traveling from afar.

Annette also touches on additional trends for 2024, such as unplugged ceremonies, organized toasts, and a focus on guest comfort in seating arrangements. She discusses the fading away of certain trends like awkward seating arrangements and lengthy pre-ceremony photo shoots.

Personalization, sustainability, and embracing technology are at the heart of 2024's wedding trends. These trends are making weddings more memorable and reflective of our changing societal and environmental values.

Join Annette in her Facebook group, Event Planner Society, for more insights and free training for wedding and event planners looking to elevate their game. The future of weddings is brimming with endless possibilities!

Quotes:

• “In 2024, expect to see couples making conscious choices to reduce their environmental footprint. This includes using locally sourced food, biodegradable decor, and digital invitations. Venues that offer green solutions will be particularly in demand.” (1:09 | Annette Naif) 
• “While grand weddings have their charm, there is a growing preference for smaller, more intimate gatherings. These weddings are not just about reducing the guest list, but also about creating personalized experiences for each attendee, reflecting the couple's unique story.” (1:32 | Annette Naif) 
• “From live streaming ceremonies to drone photography, technology continues to play a significant role in modern weddings. In 2024, we might see more advanced tech like virtual reality experiences for guests who can’t attend in person and interactive digital guestbooks.” (1:52 | Annette Naif) 
• “With a growing focus on mental health, couples are incorporating elements of mindfulness and well-being into their weddings. This could be in the form of wellness retreats for the bridal party, yoga sessions on the morning of the wedding, or quiet zones for guests to relax and recharge.” (3:13 | Annette Naif) 
• “The 2024 wedding trends are all about personalization, sustainability, and embracing technology. These trends not only make the wedding experience more memorable for the couple and their guests, but also reflect the changing social and environmental consciousness of our times.” (7:00 | Annette Naif) 

Links

Connect with Annette Naif:

Website: https://www.naifproductions.com/​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annettenaif/

Event Planners Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/eventplannerssociety

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Are you grappling with how to price your event planning services so you get the business, and you make money? It's a common struggle, and in this episode of "A Turn of Events," we're learning from Annette Naif, CEO and Creative Director of Naif Productions, herself!

In this solo episode, Annette tackles the crucial question: How do you set a price that reflects your worth and yet remains competitive? She delves into the factors that should influence your pricing strategy, from living expenses and experience level to the demand for your services and your location. It's not just about picking a number – Annette discusses the art of balancing market rates with profitability. She even opens up about her own journey, sharing the hard lessons learned from initially undercharging for her services.

Annette's advice doesn't stop at pricing. She also explores how different aspects of your service – like managing large-scale events or offering specialized services – can and should influence your rates. And what about those hidden costs of running a business? Annette covers it all, from staff salaries to marketing and the nitty-gritty of contracts. Annette also highlights the power of exceptional customer service. It's not just about getting the job done; it's about creating an experience that leads to referrals and repeat business. 

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to learn even more from Annette; join her Facebook group, Event Planner Society. This platform is a goldmine for budding and experienced planners alike, offering networking, mindset tips, and free training sessions. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your existing strategy, Annette's experience and insights are invaluable.

Quotes

• “Determine what your hourly rate should be according to the amount of money you need to pay for your living expenses. Your hourly rate should be based on your experience level, your demand of services. If you are in high demand, raise your prices and your location. If you are not sure what planners are making in your area, you can research competitors pricing to ensure your rates are competitive yet profitable. You'll also want to charge higher rates for peak wedding seasons, the complexity and scale of the event, and for specialized services. Please be sure you're pricing accordingly and not treating your business like a hobby.” (:56 | Annette Naif)
• “Revenue includes charges for planning and coordinating the event. It could be a flat fee, percentage of total wedding or event budget, or hourly rates. Offering packages that include various services like the venue coordination, vendor management, et cetera, is another option in pricing your services. There are extra services that you should be charging for, such as decor design, day of coordination, rehearsal dinner, or post-wedding brunch arrangements. If a sleeping block is needed, please be sure that you are requesting a 10% commission from the hotel on the sleeping room block. If you are not getting a commission on the sleeping room block, you are leaving hundreds of thousands of dollars on the table. You can also receive commissions from standalone venues and vendors, which can add up to a lot of money in your pocket. Another way to make a profit is to mark up the costs of your staff.” (1:56 | Annette Naif)
• “You want to determine right up front if this client is a good fit for you and that starts with the budget. You don't want to waste your time putting together a proposal to find out they are not realistic about what it's going to cost for their event.” (5:12 | Annette Naif)

Links

Connect with Annette Naif:

Website: https://www.naifproductions.com/​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naifproductions

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annettenaif/

Event Planners Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/eventplannerssociety

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm