Isaac Atkinson - Be a lifelong Learner

Are you just copying what others do, or do you truly understand why they succeed?

In this conversation with my guest Isaac Atkinson, we ask: What could you learn if you left your local bubble and connected with peers nationwide? How could building your network, attending conferences, and seeking out those hidden nuggets of knowledge change your business? What happens when you invest in your team as much as you invest in yourself?

Listen to this new episode for insights on lifelong learning, networking, and building a company culture where growth and curiosity are at the heart of everything you do.

About Isaac:
Isaac Atkinson is the founder of GTE Event Group and Kapptured Photography & Videography, two Central California companies specializing in weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. Over the past 20 years, he's built a team-focused business centered on training exceptional entertainers, creating scalable systems, and delivering unforgettable client experiences. Isaac is passionate about leadership, company culture, and helping event professionals build businesses that thrive beyond the owner.

Website: www.gteeventgroup.com
Instagram (GTE Event Group): @gteeventgroup
Instagram (Kapptured Photography & Videography): @kappturedphotography
Instagram (Personal): @isaac_atkinson_

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com 

Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  

View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/

Episode Summary

In this episode, I sit down with my friend Isaac Atkinson to explore what it really means to be a lifelong learner in the wedding business. Isaac shares his journey from believing he had "arrived" just by being successful locally, to experiencing a huge mindset shift after attending industry conferences across the country. He explains how being exposed to new ideas, networks, and different perspectives helped him realize how much more was possible for his business and personal growth.

Isaac reflects on the importance of understanding why successful businesses make certain decisions instead of simply copying their actions, emphasizing that true innovation and sustainability come from deep learning and critical thinking. He talks about how building a network of industry peers has been crucial, providing him with advice, mentorship, and support—especially during tough times like the pandemic when pivoting quickly was essential.

We discuss the idea of adapting what you learn rather than adopting someone else’s path, and how knowledge gained from conferences, books, and podcasts acts as a “bank account” of wisdom to draw from when facing new challenges. Isaac also talks about how showing up consistently at events and investing in his own education pays off not just in business strategies, but also in building a strong, supportive professional community.

Isaac shares practical insights on company culture, leadership, and how he applies what he’s learned to make his businesses—like his DJ company and a successful photography and video company—places people want to work. He points out that treating your people well leads to better client care, and he strives to build organizations where everyone feels valued and inspired to be their best.

We also touch on the benefits of learning from people at all levels, including younger team members, and staying open to new tools and platforms like social media and AI. Finally, Isaac expresses his interest in moving toward coaching and helping others achieve their own business goals, drawing from decades of experience and lessons learned as a passionate, lifelong learner in the industry.

Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you.

I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. 

Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: 

• Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions 
• YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv 
• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 
• Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher 
• Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle 
• iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic 
• Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora 

©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 

Are you wasting time and money building something for your business that already exists and works? Are you telling yourself it’s better or cheaper to “DIY” when you could be using an off-the-shelf solution today? In this episode I share stories of businesses who got stuck building from scratch, only to realize they could have saved endless hours and headaches by just buying well-made tools that already exist. I tackle the real price of customization, what’s really at stake when you wait, and why satisfaction or “saving a few bucks” might not be worth the cost and lost opportunities.

Listen to this new 9-minute episode for clarity on whether you should build or buy, and how using ready-made solutions could save you critical time and money.

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com 

Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  

View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/

Episode Summary

In this episode, I dive deep into the age-old question faced by every business owner: Should I build it myself or just buy it? I share my personal experiences from working at a large company that attempted to build its own CRM system from scratch, resulting in months of wasted time and unnecessary complications, only to ultimately revert to using an established solution. I explain how, with advancements in technology and the proliferation of AI tools, the temptation to create custom solutions is greater than ever, but I also highlight the hidden pitfalls—especially when it comes to ongoing maintenance, scalability and troubleshooting.

I break down scenarios where building your own solution may make sense, such as when your needs are truly unique and nothing comparable exists. However, I emphasize that more often than not, there’s an existing tool or software that can be customized to fit your requirements, saving both time and money. I use practical examples from my own business, discussing platforms like Zoho One and how layers built on top of existing software can provide powerful, industry-specific solutions without the headache of starting from zero.

Throughout the episode, I encourage listeners to consider the true cost of DIY—factoring in lost hours, ongoing support, and the potential lost revenue from not deploying a tool quickly. I also talk about the importance of leveraging virtual assistants and existing AI tools rather than reinventing the wheel. Ultimately, I urge you to look in the mirror and honestly assess whether trying to save a few bucks is really costing you much more in the long run. The goal is for you to focus your energy on what drives your business forward, using your time and resources as strategically as possible.

Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you.

I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. 

Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: 

• Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions 
• YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv 
• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 
• Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher 
• Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle 
• iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic 
• Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora 

©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 

Are you making it easy for your customers to contact you, or are you adding unnecessary friction to the process? Have you ever tried to click a phone number or a website in someone’s email signature and found it doesn’t work? In this episode I talk about real-world frustrations caused by image-based email signatures and why reducing these small points of friction can make a big difference in how potential clients interact with your business.

Listen to this new 5-minute episode for practical tips to ensure your email signature is helping your business, not hurting it.

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com 

Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  

View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/

Summary

In this episode, I dive into a recurring frustration that’s been catching my attention: why is it so hard to click links in some people’s email signatures? The conversation focused on the problems created when contact details like phone numbers, web addresses, or even physical addresses are embedded in signature images instead of being real, clickable text. One concept discussed was the idea of walking in your customer’s shoes, or at the very least taking a few steps in their experience, to understand if you’re making it easy or hard for someone to reach you.

A key theme that emerged was friction—the obstacles we unknowingly create when clients need to reach out. I shared my own recent struggles, like being unable to tap a phone number to call a client while using my mobile. Instead, I found myself forced to manually memorize or copy the number, which introduced unnecessary steps and frustration. The discussion explored how email programs are designed to recognize phone numbers, email addresses, and web links if they are entered as text—making them instantly actionable with just a tap or click. When those details are locked inside a graphic, though, all that valuable functionality disappears.

Several points were raised, including the technical glitches that can ruin even a well-intentioned signature—like a software update that changed all my formatting and wiped out my clickable links. I emphasized how easy it is to overlook this problem, because when things work smoothly users never notice the absence of friction, but when something doesn’t work, the irritation is palpable.

In the end, I encouraged listeners to check their own signatures, and help friends do the same, urging everyone to eliminate unnecessary friction and make it as easy as possible for customers to contact them. The takeaway is simple: let’s create email signatures that help people take action, not drive them away.

Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you.

I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. 

Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: 

• Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions 
• YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv 
• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 
• Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher 
• Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle 
• iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic 
• Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora 

©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 

Are you content with your content? If a couple landed on your website, would they immediately see what makes you different, or could anyone else put their logo on your site and say the same things? Is your content showing off your originality or just blending you into the crowd? In this guest episode, Brian Lawrence and I unpack why generic content is underperforming, how reviews and real experience help you stand out, and what fresh strategies you should try so clients know exactly why they should choose you.

Listen to this new episode for practical tips on making your content truly original and strategies for boosting your authority in a crowded wedding market.

About Brian:
Brian Lawrence is the co-author with me of "From Browsing To Booking" and producer of the Inclusive Wedding Summit. His agency is the go-to web design and SEO resource for numerous wedding industry authorities and also consults with many businesses on website and seo strategies. He was homegrown in the industry, owning numerous wedding businesses and serving as VP of a national wedding brand.

Contact Brian:
https://www.brianlawrence.com/meeting-with-brian-lawrence/

https://www.brianlawrence.com/

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com 

Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  

View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/

Episode Summary

In this episode, I sit down with my good friend Brian Lawrence to dive deep into a topic that affects every wedding business: how truly original and effective your website content is—or isn’t. Brian and I explore why so many wedding business websites sound exactly the same and what that sameness really costs you when potential clients are trying to make a decision. We discuss the shift from old-school SEO, where keyword stuffing was king, to today’s new landscape powered by AI, where content has to serve multiple purposes. Now, it’s all about answering real questions that couples, clients, and even search engines—or more specifically, answer engines and generative engines—are actually asking.

Brian explains the difference between SEO, AEO (Answer Engine Optimization), and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization), breaking down how AI is changing what Google and other search engines expect from websites. We get into practical strategies, like using FAQs on every major service page, and why separating information about different services makes your business look more authoritative. We also cover the crucial importance of blogging, especially about events at specific venues, and how to tailor content so it’s unique, emotionally resonant, and demonstrates real expertise, not just generic promises.

We talk about the power of online reviews, not just as social proof, but as a gold mine for truly original content. Brian shares how he uses actual client phrases and emotional moments from events to shape website headlines and storytelling, making sites stand out and feel authentic. By the end of the episode, we lay out concrete steps you can take to evaluate your own content for originality, make it more inclusive, keep it fresh, and leverage both your expertise and your clients' voices. If your website content could just as easily belong to your competitor, this episode will help you change that—quickly and authentically.

Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you.

I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. 

Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: 

• Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions 
• YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv 
• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 
• Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher 
• Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle 
• iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic 
• Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora 

©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 

Are you missing out on opportunities because your professional credibility is questioned before people even read your message? In this episode I talk about why using a Gmail or generic email could be holding you back, why spam filters and clients see it as a red flag, and how just one easy change can help you look more established and trustworthy.

Listen to this new 8-minute episode for the steps you can take to instantly boost your professionalism and ensure your email stands out for all the right reasons.

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com 

Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  

View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/

Summary

In this episode, I dig into what your email address is really saying about your business and how it can impact first impressions, professionalism, and even your ability to reach your clients. Inspired by a conversation within my certified speaking professionals group, I noticed that a significant number of business solicitations coming from Gmail addresses are immediately flagged as spam or as unprofessional. I talk about why having an email address at your own website, rather than at Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, or AOL, makes all the difference. When you use an email address like [email protected], you’re instantly providing your name, your website, and your email, giving credibility and making you verifiable. I share my own experience balancing multiple emails and point out how easy technology makes it to consolidate all your inboxes, so using a professional email doesn’t cause you to miss messages. I tell stories about nearly being fooled by headhunters and why even long-established businesses lose trust by sticking with a free generic email. I challenge listeners to consider how they view other professionals—like doctors or lawyers—using non-business email addresses and suggest it’s time for everyone in the wedding industry to step up. If you want to be seen as legitimate, reliable, and trustworthy, upgrading your email is one of the simplest steps you can take. I wrap up by offering actionable advice on how easy and affordable it is to make the switch, and why now is the time to stop giving clients a reason to question your business’s credibility.

Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you.

I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. 

Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: 

• Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions 
• YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv 
• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 
• Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher 
• Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle 
• iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic 
• Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora 

©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 

Are you unintentionally making yourself sound outdated in your emails or client communications? Do you still use phrases like “PS,” “enclosed please find,” or “per my previous email” and wonder why your younger clients aren’t responding? In this episode, I share what happens when language and etiquette don’t keep up with the times, why Gen Z might be confused by some of your go-to phrases, and how small changes in wording can help you connect with today’s couples. Discover the subtle ways your language might be holding you back and what to use instead so you’re not accidentally putting a generational distance between you and your next booking.

Listen to this new 9-minute episode for practical phrases to use, tips on writing messages that connect, and ways to avoid sounding out of touch with younger clients.

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com 

Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  

View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/

Summary

In this episode, I dive into the subtle ways our language can instantly reveal our age or even create an unintentional distance between us and today’s wedding clients. The conversation focused on everyday phrases and writing habits that sound outdated or overly formal to younger generations, particularly Gen Z. One concept discussed was how terms like "P.S.", "enclosed please find", or "at your earliest convenience" come across as relics from another era. I shared how my own experiences, including a recent workshop interaction with a Gen Z attendee who did not know what "P.S." means, opened my eyes to the generation gap in communication styles.

A key theme that emerged was the importance of simplifying language to mirror how people actually talk and write now. The discussion explored practical swaps, encouraging the use of "BTW" instead of "P.S.", and replacing stiff sign-offs like "sincerely" or "cordially" with a simple "thanks". Several points were raised, including how emails should be short enough to fit on one screen, use easy-to-read formatting, and end with a clear, direct question. I also talked about keeping communication inclusive, for example, referring to "couples" or "partners" instead of just "bride and groom," and avoiding formal appointment language in favor of casual invites like "pick a time to chat".

The episode also addresses digital habits, such as making contact info prominent and current on social platforms, recognizing many younger clients might never visit a website, and understanding the frustration of difficult-to-navigate customer service. I encouraged the use of AI tools to analyze and refresh business messaging to better connect with Gen Z audiences. Ultimately, the episode aims to help all of us in the wedding industry sound more approachable and up-to-date so we can continue to build great relationships with clients of every generation.

Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you.

I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. 

Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: 

• Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions 
• YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv 
• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 
• Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher 
• Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle 
• iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic 
• Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora 

©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 

Mark Chapman - ChatGPT has ads

Are your ads really connecting to engaged couples or just blending in with everyone else? What would happen if you could be the only ad a couple sees while researching their wedding plans on ChatGPT? How do you make sure your ad budget is working smarter, not harder, and actually delivers real results? In this guest episode, I welcome Mark Chapman back to break down the new ChatGPT ads, explore the best ways to target, test, and refine your messaging, and uncover what truly sets your business apart in a crowded digital landscape.

Listen to this new episode for actionable strategies to target better, craft standout ads, and make your marketing spend truly count.

About Mark

Mark is the wedding industry's authority on paid advertising. His deep fascination with paid ads started way back in 2010 when he cracked the code of Google Ads for his family's wedding business. After mastering ads for himself he started helping others > and fast forward to now, his team successfully manages $30M per year in paid ads for wedding businesses across the country. When he's not studying advertising data and trends you can find Mark snowboarding, hiking and enjoying everything mother nature has to offer at his home in Mammoth Lakes, CA!

Contact Mark

Email: [email protected]

Text: (760) 647-0403

Web: TheIDoSociety.com

Socials: @theidosociety 

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com 

Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  

View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/

Episode Summary

In this episode, I sit down with my friend Mark Chapman to dive deep into the brand new world of ChatGPT ads and what these mean for wedding professionals and business owners in our industry. We break down exactly how ChatGPT's advertising works, including the types of accounts that see ads, budget minimums, and how the context hints feature shapes targeting. Mark Chapman explains where ads appear within user conversations, why there’s only one ad per conversation, and how this exclusive real estate can be a real advantage compared to more crowded ad platforms.

We get practical by discussing the process of creating strong context hints and why keeping them specific to your service or offer is so important, especially since ChatGPT is different from platforms that let you target age or other demographics. Mark Chapman walks through campaign structure, geographic targeting all the way down to zip codes, and how you can set specific ad runs for time-sensitive promotions like trunk shows. We also get into the creative side, including best practices for headlines, descriptions, and images given the tight character limits in ChatGPT ads.

We talk cost and ROI, addressing concerns about minimum spend, click pricing, and how to judge if your investment is yielding meaningful inquiries and bookings. Mark Chapman shares early campaign results, conversion tracking, and A/B testing insights, and together we highlight the value of differentiating your offer in a way that truly stands out. Most importantly, we emphasize that success comes from consistent testing, optimization, and embracing the natural delay between advertising and seeing actual sales in the wedding space.

By the end of our conversation, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether ChatGPT ads are right for your business, how to approach this evolving platform, and why being an early adopter can give you a competitive edge as more couples are using AI tools for their wedding planning journey.

Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you.

I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. 

Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: 

• Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions 
• YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv 
• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 
• Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher 
• Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle 
• iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic 
• Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora 

©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 

Don't say "expensive "!

Are you letting your own wallet dictate what you think your clients can spend? Do you know the difference between something being “expensive” and something delivering real value? In this episode, I challenge the way we talk about pricing and explain why “expensive” isn’t about the dollar amount but about whether the value matches the investment. Could changing your mindset around this unlock new possibilities for your business and sales?

Listen to this new 7-minute episode for a fresh perspective on pricing, priorities and how to confidently ask what you’re worth.

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com 

Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  

View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/

Summary

In this episode, I dive into the real meaning of the word "expensive" and challenge the way we use it in the wedding business. The conversation focused on how "expensive" is not about the amount of money someone spends but about the value and return on investment they feel they receive. I explore situations where clients spend more than they expected but are thrilled with the results, explaining that in those moments, the experience wasn’t actually expensive, even if it represented a higher outlay than they anticipated. A key theme that emerged was the importance of understanding priorities. People put their money where their priorities are, and what seems like a high price to one person may not feel the same to another based on what matters most to them.

The discussion explored common struggles faced by wedding professionals, especially when it comes to raising their prices. Several points were raised, including that viewing your own service as "expensive" can actually hold you back and make you hesitant to increase your rates. Selling based on your own wallet rather than focusing on your client's priorities and perceived value limits your growth. I share stories from my own experience in the industry, highlighting how overcoming my own limiting beliefs about pricing and value allowed me to confidently charge more and deliver even better results. Ultimately, the message is clear: erase the word "expensive" from your vocabulary, focus on the value created, and trust that clients who see that value will be happy with their investment.

Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you.

I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. 

Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: 

• Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions 
• YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv 
• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 
• Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher 
• Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle 
• iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic 
• Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora 

©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 

No, I don't want to talk to you on the phone to get a price!

How much friction is hiding in your inquiry process? Are you forcing prospects to book a call before sharing pricing info? Is requiring a phone number or too many form fields pushing potential clients away before you even get a chance to talk? In this episode I share real stories and research about where we lose people by making it too hard to start a conversation, and how simple changes can bring in more inquiries from couples who are ready to connect.

Listen to this new 11-minute episode for practical questions you can ask yourself, and easy steps to make your contact process easier and win more clients.

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com 

Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  

View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/

Summary

In this episode, I share my personal journey with a tech company I discovered at a trade show and how their approach to sharing pricing details made me think about customer friction in the wedding industry and beyond. I was interested in their innovative app for capturing contacts but was quickly frustrated by their process. Their website’s pricing tab simply led me to a contact form that required me to schedule a call instead of giving me even a basic idea of their costs. When I reluctantly filled out the form, I was met with persistent requests for a phone meeting. I made it clear I only needed a ballpark price before deciding to talk further, but they initially insisted on a call. Only after I pushed back did I finally get a price, which turned out to be far more than I expected.

This kind of unnecessary friction, where a business insists on too much information or awkward communication methods, is a surefire way to lose prospects. I discuss how requiring a phone number or even a full mailing address just to ask a question is especially off-putting to Gen Y and Gen Z couples who avoid phone calls. I walk through real examples and statistics that show the more fields your contact form requires, the fewer inquiries you will receive. I urge you to step into the shoes of your potential customers and experience your inquiry process from their perspective. Making it quick and easy to reach you with minimal required information and being transparent about pricing up front can make all the difference. By removing these barriers and being flexible with communication preferences, you will attract more qualified leads and set the tone for a better client relationship.

Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you.

I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. 

Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: 

• Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions 
• YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv 
• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 
• Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher 
• Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle 
• iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic 
• Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora 

©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 

Ben Bilbrough - Getting Gen Z to the polls

How much does your vote really count? Are you overlooking hidden ways to make a bigger impact, especially if you are Gen Z or just starting to engage in your community? In this guest episode with Ben Bilbrough, we explore how data, technology, and evolving habits reveal unseen power in our choices. What if your individual influence is greater in some places than in others? Are you making informed decisions that truly harness your potential, both in business and civic life? Discover tools and insights that help you recognize the real value of your actions and voice.

Listen to this new episode for a new outlook on audience, influence, and why understanding your true impact can guide how you participate at work and in your community.

About Ben:
The publisher of Modern Bride's 16 regional wedding magazines before joining the then new startup The Knot.com as VP of Local Services. There he developed and implemented the innovative local advertising model that fueled The Knot's growth for years. Since then he has founded and exited Mediamax Network, iCitycerts, and Addy.co. Today he is co-founder and CEO of Action Tank, which utilizes AI and data science to help nonprofits achieve real mission impact. 

U26 VotePower Score - Learn how much power your vote has this year compared to the typical voter. U26.vote

LinkedIn - Ben Bilbrough

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com 

Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  

View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/

Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you.

I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. 

Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: 

• Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions 
• YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv 
• Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 
• Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher 
• Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle 
• iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic 
• Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora 

©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com