So you got a bad review... now what?

Confronting a bad review can be daunting. Did you honestly assess the situation? Are you responding out of emotion, or are you considering the persistent quality of your overall feedback? In this episode, I dive into strategies for addressing unfavorable feedback effectively while maintaining professionalism and emotional health.

Listen to this new 13-minute episode for insights on handling bad reviews, maintaining a positive brand image, and the importance of constructive responses.

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I tackled the challenging scenario of receiving a bad review. I shared my approach to navigating this situation by first assessing how much of the review is true. It's important to stay composed and avoid getting into a defensive back-and-forth. Instead, I recommend responding in a way that directs attention to the positive reviews we've received, while also acknowledging the guest's experience. By building a strong foundation of good reviews and personally responding to them, we can better manage the impact of negative feedback. I also emphasized the importance of learning from multiple negative reviews, as they can offer valuable insights for improving our services.

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/

Mon. Feb. 17th, Las Vegas, NV - Save $100 with this link: https://tinyurl.com/LVMini100

Mon. Feb. 24th, Miami, FL - https://events.humanitix.com/nawp

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

Janice Litvin - Learn How to Banish Burnout!

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the persistent demands of work, even if you love what you do? Are there moments when stress feels unmanageable, hinting that burnout might be just around the corner? In this episode, we dive into how to recognize early signs of burnout, reframe your stress reactions, and implement practical strategies to maintain your passion without the risk of burning out. Join us as Janice Litvin shares insights from her Banish Burnout Toolkit and discusses how to thrive in your wedding business.

Listen to this new episode for tips on recognizing burnout signs and mastering the art of setting healthy boundaries for a more balanced work-life harmony.

About Janice: 
Janice Litvin is an award-winning workplace wellness speaker and author. She is on a mission to help leaders and teams banish burnout in their organizations so they can retain top talent. She does this through keynotes, workshops and coaching groups. Her program, Banish Burnout: Move from Stress to Success teaches individuals how to change their reactions to stress from the inside out. Banish Organizational Burnout to Cultivate Thriving Teams helps leaders and managers prevent burnout from the top down, to boost productivity.

Giveaway for WBS listeners: to get the free Banish Burnout Toolkit here is the link: https://www.janicelitvin.com/resources

Contact Janice:
www.JaniceLitvin.com/Speaking

https://www.Linkedin.com/in/JaniceLitvin

https://www.Facebook.com/WorkplaceWellnessSpeaker

https://www.Instagram.com/JaniceLitvin

https://www.X.com/JLitvin

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 revie

Mon. Feb. 17th, Las Vegas, NV - Save $100 with this link: https://tinyurl.com/LVMini100

Mon. Feb. 24th, Miami, FL - https://events.humanitix.com/nawp

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

How do you sell a new product or service, without photos or reviews?

Are you struggling to gain traction with a new product or service due to a lack of reviews? How can you effectively communicate your value without prior customer feedback? In this episode, I discuss strategies like showcasing your work through compelling visuals, leveraging peer feedback, and communicating the unique results you bring to potential clients.

Listen to this new 5-minute episode for insights on building momentum for your new offerings, even when you’re starting from scratch.

Episode Summary: 
In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I tackle the challenge of selling a new product or service without any reviews – that classic "chicken and egg" problem. I share some strategies to get past this hurdle, such as creating compelling visuals through styled photo shoots and leveraging peer reviews from industry collaborators. I stress focusing on the results you can provide, which are more impactful than just detailing your products or services. It’s essential to share your unique experience and story to stand out. I also suggest using platforms like Google, Facebook, and Yelp to gather early reviews and testimonials — even from guests and peers. Lastly, I emphasize using concise testimonial snippets in your marketing efforts. Whether you're starting fresh or looking to boost your current strategy, I offer practical insights to help you build momentum in your business.

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/

Mon. Feb. 17th, Las Vegas, NV - Save $100 with this link: https://tinyurl.com/LVMini100

Mon. Feb. 24th, Miami, FL - https://events.humanitix.com/nawp

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

Failure IS an option

What have you tried new this year? Are you letting fear of failure stop you from taking chances? In this episode, I dive into why failure isn't the end, but rather a stepping stone to success. Learn how unexpected outcomes can sometimes surpass your original goals and lead to growth.

Listen to this new 6-minute episode for inspiration on embracing risk and seeing failure as a path to unexpected success and innovation.

Episode Summary: 
In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I dive into the idea that failure is actually an option—and a necessary one at that. I talk about how taking action, even with the risk of failure, is vital for achieving success and unlocking new possibilities. Drawing from personal stories, like a whiskey blending experience, I show how unintended results can sometimes lead to great success. I invite you to think about what's the worst that could happen and measure it against the potential benefits. By accepting failure as part of the journey and trying out new things, we can uncover unexpected opportunities and facilitate growth in life and business.

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/

Mon. Feb. 17th, Las Vegas, NV - Save $100 with this link: https://tinyurl.com/LVMini100

Mon. Feb. 24th, Miami, FL - https://events.humanitix.com/nawp

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

Carolyn Strauss - How do you keep your energy up in the middle of wedding season?

Are you struggling to maintain your energy during back-to-back wedding events? Do you ever feel overwhelmed and forget the importance of each unique wedding day? In this episode, Carolyn Strauss shares invaluable tips on staying energized and present, emphasizing the special moments that matter most to your clients.

Listen to this new episode for ways to stay energized, focused, and passionate throughout the wedding season. Learn how to truly shine for every event, no matter how many you’ve done.

About Carolyn: 
Carolyn Strauss is a dynamic keynote speaker whose programs empower companies, events, and organizations to become truly irresistible   Known for her expertise in reinvention, team dynamics, and communication, she equips her clients with actionable tools to achieve their goals. As a Certified Speaking Professional, Carolyn has captivated audiences in 14 countries including keynoting a speakers conference in South Africa in April 2024.

Conatact Carolyn:
[email protected]

My funny podcast at www.anotherdayaboveground.com 

Website:   www.carolynstrauss.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/

Mon. Feb. 17th, Las Vegas, NV - Save $100 with this link: https://tinyurl.com/LVMini100

Mon. Feb. 24th, Miami, FL - https://events.humanitix.com/nawp

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

Marketing is like a relay race!

Are you dropping the baton in your marketing efforts? How many potential clients are you losing at each stage of learning about your services? In this episode, I explore why a seamless handoff is crucial in every touchpoint of your marketing, from your website to your social media. Discover the steps to ensure you’re not losing potential clients and how to make your marketing efforts more synchronized and effective.

Listen to this new 6-minute episode for tips on improving your marketing handoff and increasing conversions without needing more visibility.

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions Podcast, I dive into the idea of marketing as a relay race. I talk about how marketing involves passing prospects through various stages—from social media to your website, and then to personal contact—much like handing off a baton in a relay race. I emphasize the importance of reducing the number of "dropped batons" by maintaining consistency across all platforms and making it easy for prospects to contact you. I also highlight the significance of follow-up strategies and engaging content to convert inquiries into business. Ultimately, the key is optimizing the steps you already have rather than focusing solely on increasing visibility.

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/

Mon. Feb. 17th, Las Vegas, NV - Save $100 with this link: https://tinyurl.com/LVMini100

Mon. Feb. 24th, Miami, FL - https://events.humanitix.com/nawp

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

Stop asking ‘how are you doing?’

How often do you start a conversation with "How are you doing?" without truly caring about the answer? What if there were better ways to start a conversation that would lead to more meaningful interactions? In this episode, I delve into why this question often falls flat and suggest alternative approaches to improve your engagement with clients. Discover how asking more thoughtful questions can enhance your connections and improve your business interactions.

Listen to this new 6-minute episode for tips on asking better questions that truly matter and create meaningful conversations.
Episode Summary: 
In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I delve into why the common question, "How are you doing?" often falls flat in professional interactions. Drawing inspiration from telemarketer calls and Chris Voss's book "Never Split the Difference," I explain how this question usually lacks genuine care and serves no purpose. Instead, I suggest more meaningful alternatives like asking, "What's new and exciting for you?" or "What do you love about what you do?" These questions can foster deeper connections and more productive conversations. Join me as I share practical tips to improve your communication skills and make your interactions more impactful.

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/

Mon. Feb. 17th, Las Vegas, NV - Save $100 with this link: https://tinyurl.com/LVMini100

Mon. Feb. 24th, Miami, FL - https://events.humanitix.com/nawp

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

Fausto - Does the Pantone color of the year really matter?

In this insightful episode, we unravel the significance of Pantone's color of the year for wedding professionals. How much does this annual announcement impact the choices of brides and designers alike? Are your clients seeking the latest color trends, or are these nuances primarily influencing industry insiders? Join us as Fausto Pifferer from Blue Elephant Events shares his candid experiences and offers practical advice on incorporating, or ignoring, this annual color forecast into your wedding planning and design.

Listen to this new episode for a deep dive into the true impact of Pantone's color of the year on the wedding industry and how to make the best design decisions for your clients.

About Fausto Pifferrer:
Co-founder of Blue Elephant Events and Catering, Maine Venue Partners, and Co-owner of Real Maine Weddings magazine, Fausto began his career in catering and event planning 39 years ago in Philadelphia. He has an eye for detail and production and is passionate about creating high-quality, memorable events for his wedding and corporate clients. Fausto is a member of the Leading Caterers of America, sits on the board of directors of the International Caterers Association and Seeds of Hope Community Center, and is a past President of the Biddeford-Saco Rotary Club. He recently published his first book: Temporary Friends: A Caterer’s Guide to the Perfect Day.

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/

Mon. Feb. 17th, Las Vegas, NV - Save $100 with this link: https://tinyurl.com/LVMini100

Mon. Feb. 24th, Miami, FL - https://events.humanitix.com/nawp

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

Get in the habit of following up now, while it's quieter!

Is following up on leads falling by the wayside when you’re busy with weddings and events? Are you struggling to maintain that crucial connection with potential clients? In this episode, I discuss techniques to build the habit of following up, and ensuring that you stay on top of leads even during peak seasons.

Listen to this new 6-minute episode for tips on establishing follow-up routines that keep your business thriving, no matter how busy you get.

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I emphasize the importance of developing the habit of following up with leads, especially during slower periods. I highlight how consistent follow-ups can prevent potential clients from slipping through the cracks when business picks up. I share my personal strategies for time management, such as setting specific times for follow-ups and using CRM systems to automate initial responses. I underscore the significance of making follow-ups a routine task, drawing a parallel to muscle memory, so that it remains a priority even during busy times. This episode offers practical advice to help wedding professionals stay organized and responsive.

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/

Mon. Feb. 17th, Las Vegas, NV - Save $100 with this link: https://tinyurl.com/LVMini100

Mon. Feb. 24th, Miami, FL - https://events.humanitix.com/nawp

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 still making the phone number required on your contact form?

Are you losing potential leads because your contact form requires a phone number? Do you know the impact this might have on your business? In this episode, I delve into why requiring a phone number can turn away potential clients and how you can adapt to meet modern communication preferences.

Listen to this new 9-minute episode for tips on making your contact forms more inviting and boosting your inquiry rates by making one simple change.

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of "Wedding Business Solutions," I dive into the controversial issue of requiring phone numbers on contact forms. Through extensive research from HubSpot, Salesforce, and other sources, I explain how making the phone number field optional can significantly boost form submission rates and reduce abandonment, especially among Gen Y and Gen Z, who prefer digital communication. While many vendors might favor phone conversations, requiring a phone number can deter potential clients. I offer actionable tips, like suggesting text communication and making gradual changes to improve lead engagement without being invasive. Tune in to learn how a simple tweak can enhance your inquiry rates and business success.

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/

Mon. Feb. 17th, Las Vegas, NV - Save $100 with this link: https://tinyurl.com/LVMini100

Mon. Feb. 24th, Miami, FL - https://events.humanitix.com/nawp

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