In this episode, Michael Coombs welcomes Sarah Singleton from Hype Gal Media to discuss the evolving role of content creation in weddings and events. Sarah explains how content creators complement traditional photo and video services, the challenges she faced entering the industry, and her transition from wedding coordinating to content creation. The conversation covers her creative process, dealing with misconceptions from industry peers, and the growing trends in wedding content, such as private vows and wedding weekends. Sarah also shares insights on the importance of blending into events, capturing candid moments, and the personal touches that set Hype Gal Media apart. Listeners will learn about the rise of content creation as a staple wedding vendor and how Hype Gal Media maintains its unique appeal.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:32 What is Content Creation at Weddings?
01:21 Challenges and Misconceptions
04:07 Transition from Wedding Planner to Content Creator
06:26 Creative Process Behind the Scenes
10:01 Editing Techniques and Tools
11:39 Navigating Industry Pushback
20:28 Trends in Wedding Content
24:56 Keeping Hype Gal Media Fresh
27:02 Conclusion and Contact Information

Links :

Sarah Singleton | Instagram

Michael Coombs

In this episode of the show, host Michael Coombs interviews Mariangel Urdaneta, the Director of Event Experience and Hospitality at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Mariangel, who was recently recognized by BizBash Magazine as one of 2025's 40 under 40, shares insights on her journey from Venezuela to Toronto, her dream role at TIFF, and the complexities and highlights of event management at one of the world’s premier film festivals. She discusses her day-to-day responsibilities, the year-round planning process for TIFF, notable events she has spearheaded, and her vision for enhancing Toronto’s hospitality landscape. Marieangel also emphasizes the importance of teamwork, staying calm under pressure, and learning continually in the dynamic event industry.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:32 Mariangel Urdaneta Recognition and Experience
01:54 Behind the Scenes at TIFF
02:56 Event Production and Sales at TIFF
06:23 Hospitality and Partnerships
10:20 Year-Round Planning for TIFF
13:45 Career Highlights and Memorable Moments
17:07 The Unique Charm of Our Event
17:32 Journey from Venezuela to Toronto
19:09 Starting at TIFF: From Intern to Director
21:39 Learning and Growing in the Event Industry
24:40 Ensuring World-Class Hospitality at TIFF
28:12 Personal Philosophy in Event Production
31:43 Conclusion and Future Plans

Link: 

Marieangel | Instagram

BizBash Magazine

Michael Coombs

In this episode of the Michael Coombs Show, Michael Coombs welcomes Leah Weinberg of Weinberg Legal. They discuss Leah's dynamic career journey from being a lawyer to a wedding planner and back to a lawyer serving the events community. The episode dives into the risks of using AI for drafting legal contracts, clients using AI to threaten vendor lawsuits, and essential legal protections for event professionals. Leah shares key contract provisions and advice on maintaining smart legal practices in the event planning industry. The conversation wraps up with practical tips on setting up business entities, updating contracts, and ensuring website compliance.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:35 The Impact of AI on Legal Contracts
02:51 AI and Client Disputes
05:15 Choosing the Right Lawyer for Event Professionals
06:56 Leah Weinberg's Career Journey
10:49 Essential Contract Provisions Post-COVID
13:58 Handling Legal Issues and Client Defaults
16:36 Silent Clients and Termination Clauses
17:48 Setting Expectations with Contracts
19:28 Legal Entities and Asset Protection
22:56 Handling Rising Costs and Tariffs
26:15 Governing Law for International Events
27:42 Website Legal Requirements
31:55 Conclusion and Contact Information

Links :

Leah Weinberg

Michael Coombs

In this episode, host Michael Coombs welcomes wedding photographer and health coach Julian Ribinik. Julian shares his personal transformation story, detailing how he lost 90 pounds by changing his diet and lifestyle, which improved his health dramatically. He discusses the impact of sugar, the benefits of staying hydrated with electrolytes, and the detrimental effects of caffeine. Julian also offers practical advice on diet and exercise for maintaining energy, especially for those working long hours at events like weddings. He emphasizes the importance of mindset in both health and professional life and explains how his physical transformation has enhanced his photography career.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:32 Julian's Transformation Journey
01:54 The Turning Point: Health Scare
03:06 Immediate Lifestyle Changes
04:09 Challenges and Adjustments
05:40 The Role of Diet and Exercise
10:35 Understanding Caffeine and Its Effects
16:24 The Importance of Electrolytes
16:41 The Importance of Electrolytes
16:53 Sodium's Role in Blood Circulation
17:32 Preventing Overhydration in Marathoners
17:43 Balancing Sodium and Liquid Intake
18:47 Electrolytes for Long Event Days
19:01 Managing Electrolyte Intake
21:01 Avoiding Sugar and Processed Foods
23:30 Healthy Eating at Events
29:19 The Impact of Physical Health on Photography
31:22 Mindset and Professionalism in the Events Industry
33:14 Where to Find Julian Online

Links :

Julian Ribinik | Instagram

Michael Coombs

In this episode, host Michael Coombs sits down with Melissa Baum, who transitioned from a wedding blogger to a full-time wedding and event producer. Melissa shares her unconventional journey into the wedding industry, starting with a blog that led to planning small parties, and eventually taking her passion full-time. They discuss the importance of assembling the right team, staying calm under pressure, and the role of collaboration in creating memorable events. Melissa provides insights on maintaining creativity, handling unexpected challenges, and balancing the emotional aspects of wedding planning. She also touches on her experiences planning mitzvahs and the significance of personalization and customization in her work.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:23 Melissa Baum's Journey into Wedding Planning
02:10 The Role of Creativity and Collaboration
05:35 Building the Dream Team
08:20 Managing Emotions and Client Relationships
16:00 Balancing Weddings and Mitzvahs
19:14 Problem Solving in Event Planning
23:42 Staying Innovative in a Rapidly Changing Industry
24:52 Conclusion and Contact Information

Links :

Melissa Baum | Instagram | Facebook

Michael Coombs

In this episode, Michael Coombs chats with Becky De Oliveira from Blush & Bloom about her journey into floral design, her unique approach to creativity, and the evolution of her career from delivering flowers in a small town to running a successful business in Toronto. Becky shares insights on collaboration with planners, adapting to economic challenges, and how her personal transformation, including losing over 100 pounds, has impacted her life and business. Additionally, Becky discusses Bloom School, her educational platform for floral enthusiasts and professionals.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:31 Becky's Journey into Floral Design
02:40 From Maritimes to Toronto
06:22 Starting Blush and Bloom
07:22 Developing a Unique Style
09:23 Creative Process with Clients
15:15 Collaboration with Planners and Designers
16:35 Finding the Right Event Planners
16:50 Collaborative Event Design Process
19:35 Navigating Economic Challenges
21:43 Reinventing During Slow Periods
25:15 Personal Milestones and Health Transformation
32:11 Introduction to Bloom School

Links :

Blush & Bloom

Michael Coombs

In this episode, Rachel and David Clingen, co-owners of separate but supportive companies, Rachel A. Clingen Designs and Eventure share how their businesses have grown and evolved over the years. They discuss the importance of distinguishing between their personal and professional lives to maintain a strong marriage, which has flourished for 33 years. The couple attributes much of their business success to their faith, teamwork, and the support of a passionate and committed team. They also dive into their journey of navigating the event industry, the unexpected impact of social media on their business, and the importance of authenticity and transparency. Additionally, they discuss the challenges they face in a high-pressure industry, strategies for managing stress, and the significance of maintaining a balanced, healthy lifestyle through running.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:26 Intertwining Businesses: Strengths and Challenges
02:12 Balancing Marriage and Business
07:27 The Beginnings: How It All Started
16:34 Design Process: From Vision to Reality
19:48 Managing High-Stake Events
23:12 Team Dynamics and Growth
26:01 Embracing Social Media
33:03 Dealing with Negativity
37:27 Cultural Significance of Weddings
42:55 The Role of Running in Business
46:02 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Links :

Eventure Design | David Clingen

Rachel A. Cligen Wedding & Event Design | Rachel A. Clingen

Michael Coombs

In this episode, Michael Coombs hosts Nicole Pieckenhagen , founder and managing director of Graydon Hall Manor and Couture Cuisine. They discuss the 25-year journey of transforming the historic 90-year-old mansion from a dilapidated state to a premier event venue, the challenges of maintaining such a property, and the importance of authentic hospitality in making client's events truly memorable. Nicole shares insights into her accidental start in hospitality, the significance of hiring the right people, and the focus on making clients feel special. The conversation also touches on the beginnings of Couture Cuisine and the future plans for Graydon Hall.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:39 History of Graydon Hall Manor
02:02 Restoration and Maintenance Challenges
05:49 The Essence of Hospitality
10:23 Creating Magical Moments
13:19 Building a Dedicated Team
18:55 Couture Cuisine and Catering Evolution
24:34 Reflections and Future Plans
26:55 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode, Michael Coombs discusses the intricate relationship between PR and marketing with Natalie Denyse, founder of In Good Company PR. Natalie emphasizes that clients buy trust, not just brands, and elaborates on the importance of building genuine connections and authenticity. She shares her personal journey in the PR field, highlighting the significance of understanding a brand’s ethos and values. The conversation delves into the synergy between PR, branding, and marketing, and how they collectively contribute to a brand's success. Natalie also shares specific strategies such as establishing a mission, vision, and strategy to guide business decisions. The episode features a case study of a fine jewelry client, demonstrating successful PR and marketing campaigns. Finally, Natalie discusses the evolving PR landscape, the impact of AI, and the future of niche publications.

00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic
00:11 Guest Introduction: Natalie Denyse
00:24 Building Trust in Branding
02:29 Natalie's Career Journey
10:46 The Relationship Between PR, Branding, and Marketing
16:39 Mission, Vision, and Strategy in Business
25:24 Client Success Story
32:49 Shifts in the PR Landscape
36:40 The Role of AI in PR
38:52 Conclusion and Where to Find Natalie

Links: 

In Good Company PR | Instagram

Michael Coombs | Instagram

In this episode, Michael Coombs talks with Sean Low about the current state of the wedding and event industry as of May 14, 2025. They cover the challenges posed by tariffs, economic uncertainty, and the rise of AI. Sean emphasizes the importance of adapting to these changes by focusing on creating emotional resonance and making 'outrageous promises' to clients. He also discusses the dangers of commodification and the need for businesses to redefine their value proposition in order to survive and thrive in the industry. The conversation also explores the practical uses of AI in enhancing business efficiency. Tune in for insightful strategies on steering a successful wedding and event business through turbulent times.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:42 State of the Wedding and Event Industry
01:45 Economic Crisis and Its Impact
04:18 Value Beyond Commodification
06:54 Embracing Emotional Resonance
11:24 Adapting to Technological Advancements
13:42 Case Study: Blue Bottle Coffee
14:28 Outrageous Promises and Demands
15:09 Defining Your Unique Value
16:19 The Pitfalls of Competing on Price
21:17 Leveraging AI in Your Business
26:56 The Importance of Investing in Yourself
30:03 Conclusion and Contact Information

Links:

The Business of Being Creative | Instagram | Facebook
Michael Coombs Entertainment