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/

Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. 

Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com

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/

Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. 

Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com

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/

Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. 

Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com

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/

Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. 

Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com

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

Paul Daniels Jr - Dyslexia is a Superpower!

Have you ever thought about how differently wired minds can bring unique, valuable perspectives to your business? What if you could predict potential issues before they even arise, simply by seeing what others miss? In this episode, Paul Daniels joins me to uncover the hidden superpowers of dyslexia and neurodiversity, revealing how these traits can benefit your business in unexpected ways. Are you ready to rethink how you approach hiring and appreciating diverse thought processes?

Listen to this new 30-minute episode for insights on leveraging neurodiversity in the workplace and transforming so-called challenges into business assets.

About Paul: 

Paul is an international speaker, 3X board advisor, international bestselling author, and Founder of Peripheral Thinkers™. He helps leaders find and apply new perspectives to build innovative businesses that last. Paul’s influence spans over four decades, 31 industries, 27 countries, and $21

billion in new revenue.

Website: www.pauldanielsjr.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauldanielsjr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pauldanielsjr

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/

Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. 

Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com

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 make resolutions, take actions!

Are your New Year's resolutions setting you up for success or failure? Can you break down your goals into actionable steps? In this episode, I discuss shifting from making resolutions to taking focused actions that drive real results. Learn how to prioritize tasks and turn aspirations into daily habits that stick.

Listen to this new 9-minute episode for strategies on making realistic goals, breaking them into achievable steps, and building consistency for lasting success.

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I emphasize the importance of taking actionable steps over merely making resolutions. I share personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to prioritize and achieve goals in both business and personal life. I recount my experience at the National Speakers Association conference, where I learned to focus on a few impactful goals rather than being overwhelmed by many. I discuss the value of creating habits, like my daily language lessons, and encourage you to make realistic, manageable changes that can lead to long-term success. Join me for insights into goal setting, prioritization, and consistency for a prosperous New Year.

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/

Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. 

Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com

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

Is the art of networking lost on Gen Y and Gen Z?

Are the younger generations missing out on the benefits of traditional networking, or are they just doing it differently? How can we bridge the gap between generations in professional associations and networking groups? In this episode, I explore these questions and discuss how new approaches to networking can benefit us all, regardless of age.

Listen to this new 7-minute episode for insights on how to successfully network with Gen Y and Gen Z and how to make networking more relational than transactional.

Episode Summary: 
In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I dive into the question, "Is the art of networking lost on Gen Y and Gen Z?" Contrary to popular belief, I don't think it's lost; it's just different. I explore how younger generations are still actively networking through social media and online platforms. I emphasize the importance of adapting to their methods and fostering relationships based on value, rather than making them purely transactional. I also share insights on involving younger professionals in leadership roles and understanding their needs to create meaningful connections across generations. Tune in for some valuable networking strategies and tips on cross-generational collaboration.

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/

Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. 

Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com

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

Elizabeth Solaru - How to start and build a luxury brand!

Are you struggling to connect with luxury clients? Do you know how to position your offerings to make mid-range options more appealing? In this episode, Elizabeth Solaru and I dive deep into the art of targeting luxury clients, pricing strategies, and effective networking techniques. Learn how to use unusual marketing strategies to align your brand with top-tier clients, and find out why it's crucial to understand your target audience beyond generic customer avatars.

Listen to this new episode for insights on strategic product positioning, networking for high-end markets, and leveraging luxury branding to attract the right clients.

About Elizabeth: 

Elizabeth Solaru is a multi award-winning luxury business consultant, author, and world renowned cake artist. As the CEO and Founder of the Diversity in Luxury Awards, she is a pioneering voice advocating for inclusivity and representation in the luxury sector.

Her latest book, The Luxpreneur: How to Start and Build a Successful Luxury Brand has been described as  "the blueprint for a luxury business" and a "must read for those interested in working in the luxury industry"

Elizabeth has been named as one of the world's Masterful 100 and has been featured on the BBC, Channel 4 and Sky TV. She has spoken in business schools and on some of the most exclusive luxury business stages, including JP Morgan and The Inner Circle Experience.

In addition to her consulting work, Elizabeth is passionate about mentorship and is dedicated to empowering the next generation of luxury professionals.

Get Elizabeth’s book “The Luxpreneur” here: tinyurl.com/yeert22u

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS

Instagram @elizabethscakeemporium

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-solaru-1ba901/

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 

Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. 

Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com

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 focused on sales or profits?

Are you caught up in the race to increase sales, or are you strategically focusing on boosting your profits? In this episode, I dive into the importance of understanding the difference between sales and profits. What are the true costs of your services? Are you maximizing profitability on high-demand dates? How can you ensure every dollar contributes to your bottom line? Find out how to shift your mindset from merely keeping the lights on to truly paying yourself first.

Listen to this new 10-minute episode for insights on optimizing your profitability and strategic tips for making the most of every sale.

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I delve into the crucial distinction between focusing on sales versus profits within your business. Drawing from my own experiences and lessons from the book Profit First by Mike Michalowicz, I emphasize the importance of prioritizing profitability over sheer sales volume. I discuss how raising prices strategically, especially on high-demand dates, and offering top-tier packages can significantly boost profits. I also highlight the impact of ancillary services and upgrades on your bottom line. This insightful episode is essential listening if you're aiming to maximize profitability without sacrificing quality or overextending your resources.

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/

Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. 

Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com

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 ready for engagement season?

Engagement season has kicked off—are you prepared? Do your profiles have recent reviews, and are your photos up to date? How about your website's content? In this episode, Alan Berg outlines a checklist to ensure you're ready to capture the influx of newly engaged couples. Don't let outdated information cost you potential clients. Learn how to present your recent successes, stay current, and keep your first impression fresh and attractive.

Listen to this new 10-minute episode for strategies on updating your online presence and maximizing your engagement season opportunities.

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/

Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. 

Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com

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