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

In this episode, host Michael Coombs talks with Michelle and Tamara from Fab Fête about the intricacies of planning weddings and events. They break down the importance of honest client communication and share insights on managing realistic budgets and expectations. The duo also discuss how they incorporate clients' personal styles into their event designs, creating immersive experiences. They recount challenging events they've managed, including the renowned Schitt's Creek-themed wedding. Michelle and Tamara also announce their expansion into Miami, adding another milestone to their successful venture.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:25 The No BS Rule in Client Communication
04:29 Balancing Design and Logistics
05:32 Budget Realities Post-Covid
07:39 Founding Fab FET
11:00 Importance of Communication
12:56 Creating Immersive Events
15:33 Bar and Bat Mitzvahs vs. Weddings
16:13 Creative Freedom in Bar and Bat Mitzvahs
16:46 Unique Entertainment Ideas
18:08 Challenging Event Planning Stories
19:33 Dealing with Difficult Clients
22:50 The Schitt's Creek Wedding
27:13 Expanding to Miami
27:52 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

Links: 

Fab Fete | Instagram | Facebook

Michael Coombs Entertainment 

In this episode, host Michael Coombs interviews Julie, Elisa, and Samantha of Cirque Revolution about their unique journey in the event industry. They discuss the value and impact of events, the essential nature of building trust within a team, and the dynamics of being sisters and business partners. The conversation dives into their passion for circus arts, the development of their business, and the importance of collaboration and mentorship. The sisters emphasize the significance of trust and teamwork, sharing their experiences and insights on creating a supportive and transformative work culture.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:47 The Importance of Events
03:48 About Cirque Revolution
06:12 The Journey to Circus Arts
14:55 Trust and Teamwork in Performances
23:22 Building a Business as Sisters
27:04 Conclusion and Contact Information

Links: 

Cirque Revolution

Michael Coombs Entertainment 

In this episode, host Michael Coombs welcomes wedding industry educator and coach Terrica to discuss the concept of valuing one's energy, the importance of self-care, and the necessity of setting strategic priorities. Terrica emphasizes the idea that energy is the most expensive currency and shares methods to manage it effectively. She advises giving 'yeses' to oneself first and then to others. The conversation also covers the essential systems every professional needs and strategies for staying motivated and successful. Terrica shares her personal journey from wedding planning to coaching and the importance of having the right mindset. Listeners learn strategies for overcoming stagnation, the value of goal-setting, and the importance of grace, both toward oneself and others.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:30 The Value of Energy and Time
02:01 Prioritizing Yourself in Business
03:54 Essential Systems for Success
06:39 Getting Unstuck and Finding Momentum
11:24 The Journey to Becoming a Coach
14:53 The Importance of Having a Coach
16:19 Embracing the Hustler Mindset
17:39 The Trap of Comparison
19:10 Setting and Achieving Goals
20:51 Delegation and Growth
25:01 Effective Communication with Clients
30:25 Wedding Pro University and Strategy Blueprint
32:45 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Links: 

Terrica | Instagram | Facebook

Michael Coombs Entertainment 

In this episode, host Michael Coombs welcomes Sara Dunn from 'Sara does SEO' to discuss the ongoing relevance of SEO in today's digital marketplace, including its impact on AI and the current significance of blogging. Sara highlights the essential role of SEO in helping businesses, particularly in the wedding industry, get discovered online through search engines like Google, as well as emerging AI tools like ChatGPT. The discussion covers various aspects of SEO, including the rise of AI-based tools, the misconceptions surrounding SEO, and the importance of keyword research and quality content. Sara also debunks the myth that SEO and blogging are only for low to mid-tier markets, emphasizing their effectiveness for high-end brands as well. She provides actionable tips for improving SEO and underscores the importance of maintaining an updated Google Business profile.

00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic
00:30 Does SEO Still Matter?
01:57 Beyond Google: The Rise of AI in SEO
03:25 Chat GPT's Impact on SEO
06:09 Keyword Research and Tools
12:34 Misconceptions About SEO in the Wedding Industry
15:45 The Relevance of Blogging
20:41 SEO for Luxury Wedding Brands
27:38 Social Media's Role in SEO
30:30 Actionable SEO Tips
32:26 Conclusion and Farewell

Links: 

Sara Dunn | Instagram | TikTok |  Facebook

Michael Coombs Entertainment 

In this episode, Michael Coombs speaks with Nayri, Wedding Fashion Expert, about the importance of establishing a personal brand on social media, and how AI is transforming marketing. Nayri shares her journey to becoming a wedding fashion expert, including how she overcame her shyness and took the leap to put herself out there. She discusses the challenges and highlights of building her career, the significance of consistency, and how gratitude plays a vital role in her life. Nayri also touches upon leveraging AI for marketing and the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive team members and like-minded entrepreneurs.

00:00 Introduction and Today's Topics
00:16 Meet the Wedding Fashion Expert: Nayri
00:35 The Birth of the Wedding Fashion Expert
03:04 Overcoming Introversion and Embracing Social Media
04:15 The Power of Personal Connection and Consistency
08:32 Balancing Personal Life and Professional Success
15:50 The Role at Novella and Team Dynamics
17:53 The Multifaceted Role at Novella
19:02 Balancing Social Media and Business
20:18 Managing Team Dynamics
22:29 Building a Personal Brand
23:50 Consistency is Key
27:06 Leveraging AI in Business
31:11 The Importance of Gratitude
33:51 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Links: 

Nayri | Instagram | TikTok | You Tube | Facebook

Michael Coombs Entertainment 

In this episode, host Michael Coombs sits down with internationally renowned event designer Beth Helmstetter to discuss her journey from the nonprofit sector to becoming a high-profile event planner. Beth shares insights into her distinct style, the importance of understanding client visions, and the complexities of planning destination weddings. She also talks about The Good Beginning, a platform for couples who want to incorporate charitable donations into their wedding registry. Additionally, Beth emphasizes the importance of anticipating and solving problems, mastering the art of hospitality, and establishing a business structure that ensures sustainability and growth.

00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic
00:27 Meet Beth Helmstetter: From Nonprofit to Event Design
01:16 Finding Passion in Wedding Planning
01:53 Journey to Los Angeles and Destination Weddings
03:09 Defining a Distinct Style
04:13 Creating Immersive Experiences
07:13 Overcoming Obstacles in Event Planning
08:51 Balancing Client Vision and Creative Integrity
11:51 Restructuring for Success Post-Covid
21:55 The Good Beginning: Giving Back
24:45 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Beth

Links:

Beth Helmstetter | Instagram

Michael Coombs Entertainment 

In this episode, Michael Coombs interviews Natalie Stanbra, the National Director of Event Sales for Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality (O&B). Natalie shares insights on the history and growth of O&B from a startup restaurant in 1993 to a significant player in the hospitality and events industry across Canada. She discusses her 20-year journey within the company, rising from restaurant staff to a leadership position. They delve into topics such as the process of creating and managing event venues, the importance of partnerships, and the challenges of staying relevant in a competitive market. Natalie also highlights a major event she organized in Halifax, showcasing the logistical challenges and triumphs of large-scale event planning. The episode wraps up with Natalie’s advice for building strong industry relationships and staying committed to the event industry.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:28 History of Oliver and Bonacini

02:10 Natalie's Journey at O&B

03:51 Leadership and Team Dynamics

07:46 Partnerships and Venue Creation

08:54 The Process of Opening a Venue

17:54 Staying Relevant and Top of Mind

22:25 Career Highlights and Lessons Learned

26:36 Conclusion and Contact Information

Links:

Oliver and Bonancini | Instagram | Facebook | You Tube | Linkedin

Michael Coombs Entertainment |  Doc

In this episode, host Michael Coombs interviews 4Korners, the official DJ of the Toronto Raptors. They discuss 4Korners' experience performing in front of thousands of fans, the evolution of his role over 20 years, and the importance of incorporating diverse music genres. 4Korners shares details about his creative processes, both for game-day performances and music production, including his first album release. They also talk about the impact of social media engagement on fan interaction and the innovative 'OTW' social events series. The conversation delves into the emotional connections created through music and the significance of choosing the right gigs for personal fulfillment.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:28 Reconnecting and Reminiscing
00:58 Becoming the Raptors' DJ
02:09 Evolution of the DJ Role
03:57 Music Production for Dance Teams
05:18 Integrating Diverse Music Genres
08:14 The Joy of Digging for Music
13:30 Choosing the Right Gigs
16:42 Scripted Elements and DJ Autonomy
17:26 Leveraging Social Media for Music Discovery
18:16 The Role of Social Media in a DJ's Career
20:16 Memorable Performances and Global Experiences
22:09 Music Production and DJ Brain
24:42 Emotional Connection Through Music
28:26 The Raptors' NBA Championship Win
29:42 Innovative Social Events with OTW
33:45 Conclusion and Where to Find 4 Korners

Links:

4Korners | Instagram | You Tube | TikTok

Michael Coombs

Michael Coombs interviews Rebecca Chan, who shares her transition from wedding planning to corporate events, how her graphic design background contributed to her success, differences in designing weddings vs. corporate events, and how she manages a highly talented team. Rebecca explains the creative challenges faced and insights into maintaining work-life balance while delivering exceptional event experiences. She emphasizes transparency, fair pay, and ongoing development as keys to keeping her team motivated.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:27 Rebecca Chan's Journey from Graphic Design to Event Planning
06:22 Transitioning from Weddings to Corporate Events
10:38 Designing Corporate Events vs. Weddings
14:11 Creative Challenges and Lunar New Year Events
19:54 Managing a Talented Team
26:42 Conclusion and Contact Information

Links :

Rebecca Chan | Instagram | Facebook

Michael Coombs