Wed Bed Podcast

In this Special episode, the co-hosts jump into the captivating world of Wedding Expos. Fresh off a day, showcasing at a Wedding Expo, Helen brings a wealth of insights for Short-Term Rental (STR) owners eager to expand their portfolio to include weddings and events.

She shares her takeaways on what she's found works well and highlights things she did differently this time around that paid off. Helen also gives invaluable tips on how to best maximize your time during and after the Show to nurture promising leads.

Wedding venues are booking out 2024 and 2025 as we speak, so if you're contemplating the STR-Wedding venture, there is no time like the present! As a bonus tip from our dynamic duo, discover how participating in a wedding expo can bolster your presence, though it comes at a cost. Join us to explore the nitty-gritty of this fascinating opportunity.

Ruby turns the table on Heen in this episode, asking her the Rapid Fire questions their guests typically encounter! Find out the coolest thing Helen hopes to see at a wedding in the future! This could be the next wedding season trend!

Additionally, consider this your friendly reminder that Engagement Season is quickly approaching! Our hosts offer up a few suggestions as the season approaches so you can make the most of it and see the results in your profit!

This Special Episode is brimming with insights, advice, and fun, so don't miss out! Tune in and immerse yourself in the world of weddings, STR, and profit-boosting strategies.

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Are you loving the show? ❤️ 🎙️

Leave us a review and subscribe where you listen to podcasts and follow us for more tips, advice, and insight! And don't forget, friends share -- so share our podcast with all your SRT friends who want to maximize revenue through the perfect marriage of short-term rentals and weddings.

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Love Helen and Ruby? Prove it! Follow them on Instagram:

Helen: @brookledgeny

Ruby: @ruby_stellarbnb

Wed & Bed Podcast: @wedandbedpodcast

Welcome to this week's episode of the "Wed & Bed Podcast." Join your dynamic duo hosts, Helen and Ruby, as they sit down with Omid, "The Rad Investor". Omid wears many hats, he's a best-selling author in "Hospitable Host Volume 2," a seasoned Short-Term Rental (STR) Host in California and Tennessee, with over 26 listings, an educator on a mission to help entrepreneurs and fellow STR hosts find their path to financial freedom and the co-host of the "Find Your Freedom" podcast.

Omid's journey in the hospitality and real estate industry is nothing short of inspiring. And after turning a profit, he decided to take things to the next level by scaling his business and embarking on his very first solo project. Located in the tranquil haven of Joshua Tree, California, Omid's new build provides a perfect space for guests to fully disconnect and relax. However, even the Rad Investor has questions, and he turns to our dynamic duo hosts for insights and advice.

Discover how the experience of a location can leave a lasting impression on hosts, and Omid shares his thoughts on what made Joshua Tree the ideal choice for his business expansion.

Lean in as Helen and Ruby delve into the secrets of creating repeat clients and boosting booking revenue streams. If you've ever wondered how to source leads and expand your reach beyond traditional avenues, you're in for a surprise as they unveil their methods. (Hint: keywords are your secret weapon!)

And if you're in need of more space to accommodate your guests, stay tuned for Helen's ingenious idea that she uses for her own property.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned STR host, or simply intrigued by the world of short-term rentals, the "Wed & Bed Podcast" is your go-to source for expert insights and inspiration. Tune in and let the conversation guide you toward financial success and a rewarding hosting experience.

IG: OmidTheRadInvestor

FB: OmidTheRadInvestor

Podcast: Find Your Freedom

Direct Booking for listings at Hideaway Haus

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Are you loving the show? Leave us a review and subscribe where you listen to podcasts and follow us for more tips, advice, and insight! And don't forget, friends share -- so share our podcast with all your SRT friends who want to maximize revenue through the perfect marriage of short-term rentals and weddings.

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Love Helen and Ruby? Prove it! Follow them on Instagram:

Helen: @brookledgeny

Ruby: @ruby_stellarbnb

Wed & Bed Podcast: @wedandbedpodcast

In this episode, join our dynamic duo as they sit down with Dawn Cornett, the visionary owner and host of Skyview Ranch in beautiful Texas. Dawn is no stranger to the hospitality game, managing an impressive portfolio of seven vacation rentals and overseeing sixteen others.

While we usually dive deep into the world of micro-weddings and how to make them spectacular, this episode takes a unique twist. We explore the art of determining the ideal event size for your property and personal preferences.

Tune in to discover valuable insights on a range of topics, including:

• The charming animals that can add a special touch to your property.

• Strategies for maximizing opportunities year-round, not just during wedding season.

• Helen's favorite wedding size and her advice on finding the perfect fit for your property and team.

• Navigating the fine line between Airbnb regulations and event rules.

• And the importance and logistics behind Certificates of Insurance.

Don't miss this episode for quick and effective tips on optimizing your OTA listing (hint: it's all about the wording) and sure-fire methods for building your brand with local vendors and the community, to ensure a steady stream of bookings for weddings and events.

The trio also takes on the age-old debate of whether to display prices on your website – is it a resounding "yes" or a cautious "no"? Share your thoughts with us!

Pro Tip: If you're venturing into event hosting at your short-term rental, make it a habit to debrief with your team after each event. This invaluable practice ensures constant improvement, providing the best possible experience for your guests and your team alike.

IG: @SkyviewranchTexas

FB: SkyviewranchTexas

Direct: Skyview Ranch

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Are you loving the show? Leave us a review and subscribe where you listen to podcasts and follow us for more tips, advice, and insight! And don't forget, friends share -- so share our podcast with all your SRT friends who want to maximize revenue through the perfect marriage of short-term rentals and weddings.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Love Helen and Ruby? Prove it! Follow them on Instagram:

Helen: @brookledgeny

Ruby: @ruby_stellarbnb

Wed & Bed Podcast: @wedandbedpodcast

Ready to propel your business forward and simplify your STR event hosting process? We thought so. As a Short-Term-Rental (STR) owner and wedding host, you're well aware of the challenges that come with managing inquiries from various sites and platforms. In today's episode, we're joined by Jen Cormier, Director of Sales & Customer Success at Weven.

So, what exactly is Weven, you ask? Great question!

Weven is a cutting-edge lead management tool designed to assist venues and couples planning weddings. It's a unique 2-sided CRM and events management system, making it incredibly easy to initiate and maintain communication throughout the entire process.

They've taken the tech to the next level so tune in to discover how Weven can revolutionize the way vacation rental owners handle their inquiries.

With a system like Weven, you'll have all the essential information about potential clients right at your fingertips. You'll know exactly where they are in the planning process, and with a simple click of a button, you can send them a follow-up message.

But Weven offers more than just lead consolidation; it also empowers you with valuable data insights. Learn how Weven simplifies the process of gathering so you can use it to your advantage.

Explore the wealth of features Weven offers, including templates and automated personalized messaging. Whether you're an all-in STR Wedding Host or prefer a more hands-off approach, find out how you can "set it and forget it" for your clients or use it to enhance engagement and manage all the intricate details.

Regardless of your STR wedding style, having a streamlined system in place is always a valuable asset. It acts as your one-stop-shop, connecting you to vendors, providing easy access to insurance certificates, and enabling the creation of custom documents for signatures. With this system in place, you'll finally have an efficient way to reach out to photographers' post-event for those much-needed promotional pictures.

This podcast episode is dedicated to helping STR Hosts simplify their operations. Tune in to discover how this incredible software can transform your STR hosting game and make your life a whole lot easier!

For streamlining insights and tips follow Weven on IG: @weven.co

To connect with Jen on LinkedIn

Interested in taking Weven for a test run? Use the exclusive Wed & Bed discount code for a deal Code: Wed&Bed

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Are you loving the show? Leave us a review and subscribe where you listen to podcasts and follow us for more tips, advice, and insight! And don't forget, friends share -- so share our podcast with all your SRT friends who want to maximize revenue through the perfect marriage of short-term rentals and weddings.

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Love Helen and Ruby? Prove it! Follow them on Instagram:

Helen: @brookledgeny (https://www.instagram.com/brookledgeny/)

Ruby: @ruby_stellarbnb (https://www.instagram.com/ruby_stellarbnb/)

Wed & Bed Podcast: @wedandbedpodcast

In this week's episode we give Wed & Bed a twist. Today our guest of honor is Olivia, a bride-to-be, who's opting for a vacation rental as her wedding venue thanks to the wedding trend that has gone viral on Tik-Tok.

But why choose a vacation rental over a traditional venue? Is it all about saving those Benjamins, or does it offer the intimacy and exceptional amenities that today's couples crave? Today, we're diving headfirst into the point of view from the other side for how to make wedding planning more unique and budget-friendly than ever before.

Choosing the right location for your wedding is no small task. It's crucial to take your time and select the perfect backdrop for your special day. We'll explore the factors that guided Olivia's decision and why it's essential to figure out where you want to say, "I do."

To all the brides planning their STR (short-term rental) wedding, Olivia has some golden advice to share. What are your priorities: a grand affair or an intimate gathering? Is there a specific season that resonates with your love story? How flexible are your dates, and what vacation rental amenities are you dreaming of? And let's not forget our fur-babies - are they a "must-have" at the wedding? Olivia will walk us through these and other crucial considerations for honing in on your wedding plans.

For all you vacation rental owners out there, get ready to hear firsthand what stands out to brides like Olivia when they're planning their STR wedding. Discover from a bride's point of view who the "must-have" vendors are for an STR wedding. And remember, sometimes it's best to let the professionals do what they do best!

But wait, there's more! Are you up to date on the latest flower controversy? Have you heard of sola flowers? Our co-host Ruby is a big fan of these wooden flower bouquets, and Olivia will share how she fell in love with this unique trend. But don't dismiss your florist just yet! Helen, our other co-host, will provide insights into the intricate work of florists and why they come with the price tag they do. Whether you go real or opt for wooden blooms, the key is to find someone who aligns with your vision and can execute it flawlessly.

And as a bonus treat, we'll throw another flower option into the mix with Ruby giving us an insider look at the latest flower trend sweeping Texas by storm. Plus, we'll share a bride tip bonus: seeking out small businesses that might be just starting out to get a great deal and save some dough on your wedding.

Join us for this exciting episode of "Wed & Bed Unveiled" as we explore the world of vacation rental weddings, wedding venue selection, and the latest flower trends. Whether you're a bride-to-be or a vacation rental owner, there's something for everyone in this podcast episode!

To follow along with Olivia's story check her out on IG, FB or TikTok

IG: @kelliherolivia

FB or TikTok: @Olivia Kellier

As always, Helen and Ruby offer their expertise to inspire and guide you in creating unforgettable experiences and turning your dreams into reality. Cheers to love, laughter, and STR and Wedding prosperity!

Are you loving the show? Leave us a review and subscribe where you listen to podcasts and follow us for more tips, advice, and insight! And don't forget, friends share -- so share our podcast with all your SRT friends who want to maximize revenue through the perfect marriage of short-term rentals and weddings.

Love Helen and Ruby? Prove it! Follow them on Instagram:

Helen: @brookledgeny

Ruby: @ruby_stellarbnb

Wed & Bed Podcast: @wedandbedpodcast

Interested in The Spotted Snout's Pups Plus One Service? Check them out on IG @spottedsnout

If you are an STR Host and interested in joining the Wed & Bed Facebook Group? DM Helen for more details!

Until next time...

In this episode, we dive into the world of short-term rentals with a special guest who knows how to optimize. Meet Casey Karlen, the owner of multiple STR properties in the sun-soaked state of California. Casey wears many hats – property owner, host, coach, and recently, a speaker at the STR Growth Summit in Austin, Texas. Last week, Casey took the stage to share invaluable insights on how to maximize your OTA (Online Travel Agency) listing to ensure it not only converts but also excels in search rankings.

One of Casey's remarkable properties is nestled in Indio, California, near the world-famous Coachella location. It's not just any rental; it's a haven for music enthusiasts, featuring music-themed rooms, a putting green, a hot tub, and BBQ pits, among other fantastic amenities.

Casey is the go-to expert when it comes to optimizing your STR listings and in this episode, Helen and Ruby talk with Casey about encouraging hosts to identify the unique vibe their property exudes and embrace it wholeheartedly. Going niche is not just okay; it's encouraged! Take a close look at what your listing offers and run with it.

But it doesn't end there. Casey emphasizes the importance of understanding your market and what your property represents. Is it aligned with what the market is telling you? Is your STR able to fill that niche or market hole effectively?

The key takeaway from this episode is to be different and stand out. Ruby and Helen share tips on creating packages that not only benefit your guests but also work for you as a host. Casey also gets a few suggestions from our hosts on how he can also further his outreach by leaning into his unique STR niche.

If you're looking to supercharge your short-term rental game and learn how to leverage your property's unique vibe for success, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we unlock the secrets to optimizing your STR listing and standing out in the crowd!

And here's a pro tip from Helen: Make sure to highlight and include in your listing the types of parties and events that you welcome. And, as a bonus, remember that not everyone reads listing descriptions thoroughly, so your pictures should also speak to the experience you offer.

Follow Casey on social and check out his STR's

IG: @casey_karlen

FB: Casey Karlen

Interested in Casey helping you grow your listing? Check him out here ➡️ Coach Casey Karlen

To stay at the incredible Indio House ➡️ STR Listing

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As always, Helen and Ruby offer their expertise to inspire and guide you in creating unforgettable experiences and turning your dreams into reality. Cheers to love, laughter, and STR and Wedding prosperity!

Are you loving the show? Leave us a review and subscribe where you listen to podcasts and follow us for more tips, advice, and insight! And don't forget, friends share -- so share our podcast with all your SRT friends who want to maximize revenue through the perfect marriage of short-term rentals and weddings.

Love Helen and Ruby? Prove it! Follow them on Instagram:

Helen: @brookledgeny

Ruby: @ruby_stellarbnb

Wed & Bed Podcast: @wedandbedpodcast

If you are an STR Host and interested in joining the Wed & Bed Facebook Group? DM Helen @brookledgeny for more details!

What exactly is a Barndominium and how do you maximize revenue for it? Find out in this weeks episode when your hosts, Helen and Ruby talk with Franklin Miller, the owner of The Hemlock Place, a unique Barndominium in Dover, Ohio.

Listen in as Ruby and Helen give Franklin some tried and true advice on how to make his incredible and unique short-term rental property stand out ever more and we'll explore how to evaluate your rates and create packages when taking on events at your STR.

Join us as we dive into topics like the art of using social media effectively to boost your STR's visibility while keeping your time in check. And discover the secret to attracting clients and bookings by showcasing the right kinds of pictures (Hint: Highlighting amenities that leave a lasting impression).

Furthermore, we'll uncover the secrets of leveraging vendors to go the extra mile for your guests and ensure a strong return on your investment. Tune in and unlock the keys to success in the world of Short-Term Rentals.

To check out The Hemlock Place visit:

IG: @thehemlockplace

Direct Booking: The Hemlock Place

As always, Helen and Ruby offer their expertise to inspire and guide you in creating unforgettable experiences and turning your dreams into reality. Cheers to love, laughter, and STR and Wedding prosperity!

Are you loving the show? Leave us a review and subscribe where you listen to podcasts and follow us for more tips, advice, and insight! And don't forget, friends share -- so share our podcast with all your SRT friends who want to maximize revenue through the perfect marriage of short-term rentals and weddings.

Love Helen and Ruby? Prove it! Follow them on Instagram:

Helen: @brookledgeny (https://www.instagram.com/brookledgeny/)

Ruby: @ruby_stellarbnb (https://www.instagram.com/ruby_stellarbnb/)

Are you an STR Host and interested in joining the Wed & Bed Facebook Group? DM Helen for more details!

Until next time...

In today's delicious episode, we circle back to our Vendors Series to talk about all things Caterers. Tune in to hear Helen and Ruby do a deep dive into what questions you should be asking when hiring potential caterers, the different types of catering and food options out there when hosting your wedding, and the hidden expenses that can quickly add up. Along with some other insider tips for couples when they are looking to book and save some dough, you won't want to miss this episode.

And for all our STR hosts out there, the team talks about how the landscape and cancellation policies have shifted over the years and how to best handle potentially sticky situations.

As always, Ruby and Helen offer their expertise to inspire and guide you in creating unforgettable experiences and turning your dreams into reality. Cheers to love, laughter, and STR + Wedding prosperity!

Do you have a caterer wedding tip or a fun food idea, we want to hear it! Tag us on social media @wedandbedpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/wedandbedpodcast/)

Are you loving the show? Leave us a review and subscribe where you listen to podcasts and follow us for more tips, advice, and insight! And don't forget, friends share -- so share our podcast with all your SRT friends who want to maximize revenue through the perfect marriage of short-term rentals and weddings.

Love Helen and Ruby? Prove it! Follow them on Instagram:

Helen: @brookledgeny (https://www.instagram.com/brookledgeny/)

Ruby: @ruby_stellarbnb (https://www.instagram.com/ruby_stellarbnb/)

If you are you an STR Host and interested in joining the Wed & Bed Facebook Group? DM Helen for more details!

Until next time... Happy Exploring!

Welcome to the eleventh episode of the "Wed and Bed" podcast, where your hosts, Helen and Ruby, invite you to join them in fascinating conversations with experts from the world of short term vacation rentals, hospitality and weddings.

In this episode, Helen is thrilled to sit down with Stacey Paretti Rase, a best-selling author, and STR Superhost Ambassador Coach. Stacey's journey in the vacation rental industry has led her to become the proud owner of not one, but two exquisite properties in the charming Covington, Louisiana.

First on the list is the remarkable Lacroix Loft + Landings, a gem nestled right in the heart of Covington. Stacey's second property, the serene Sleepy Lagoon Property, offers a tranquil escape on the outskirts of town, enveloped by lush landscapes. With her wealth of experience, Stacey is your go-to expert for all things related to short-term rentals (STR). From curating location-specific add-ons that add a touch of luxury to your guests' experience – think post-wedding turn-down services – to imparting invaluable wisdom on efficient property management. Discover how Stacey's powerful suggestions on how to give back to your community has left an imprint on Helen's own STR business, prompting her to initiate positive change within her community. Stacey's insights are a goldmine for both newcomers and seasoned hosts alike.

But that's not all – Helen shares her own journey implementing Weven, a powerful CRM program, into her business operations. For those unfamiliar, CRM stands for Customer Relationship Management,and it's pivotal software for effectively managing and nurturing customer interactions. Helen's experience with Weven offers valuable insights into how technology can revolutionize your business strategies.

As the episode wraps up, make sure to explore Stacey's LinkTr.ee, a gateway to her property listings and social media handles. Don't miss the chance to participate in an exciting giveaway for a two-night stay at The Lacroix!

Find all things Stacy at LinkTr.ee

Stacy's IG: @staceyprase

The Lacroix IG: @lacroixcovington

Sleepy Lagoon IG: @sleepylagoonla

Or at Rare Find Rentals LinkedIn

Interested in CRM? Keep all wedding business in one place with Weven

Love Helen and Ruby? Prove it! Follow them on Instagram:

Helen: @brookledgeny (https://www.instagram.com/brookledgeny/)

Ruby: @ruby_stellarbnb (https://www.instagram.com/ruby_stellarbnb/)

Until next time... Happy Exploring!

In the delightful tenth episode of the "Wed and Bed" podcast, we are thrilled to have Madeline Bloom as our guest speaker. Madeline is the creative force behind the charming short-term rental, Three Roses Manor, nestled in the heart of Kentucky's famous Bourbon Trail. As she shares her insights and experiences as an owner and operator, we delve into the enchanting world of weddings and hospitality.

Listen in as Helen, a seasoned expert in the field, imparts her wisdom on how to elevate revenue streams by seamlessly incorporating bachelorette parties, elopements, and micro weddings into your offerings. From personalized experiences to creating unforgettable moments, Helen unravels the secrets to making each celebration at Madeline's darling rental a dream come true for every guest.

But that's not all – Helen underscores the significance of networking events. Discover how these events can set you apart in the competitive landscape, forging lasting connections and collaborations that elevate your business to new heights.

Whether you're a hospitality entrepreneur, an aspiring innkeeper, or a wedding enthusiast, this episode is brimming with practical tips and heartfelt stories that illustrate the magic of uniting love and bourbon in Kentucky's picturesque setting. Join us on this journey of love, celebration, and success as Helen and Ruby offer their expertise to inspire and guide you in creating unforgettable experiences and turning your dreams into reality. Cheers to love, laughter, and prosperity on Kentucky's Bourbon Trail!

Visiting Kentucky's famous Bourbon Trail? Stay at Three Roses Manor in Shelbyville, KY.

For a Direct Booking visit: https://3rosesmanor.com/

Or follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/3rosesmanor

Love Helen and Ruby? Prove it! Follow them on Instagram:

Helen: @brookledgeny (https://www.instagram.com/brookledgeny/)

Ruby: @ruby_stellarbnb (https://www.instagram.com/ruby_stellarbnb/)

Until next time... Happy Exploring!