Wedding Empires - Grow and Market Your Dream Wedding Business

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Wedding professionals, your moment for global recognition has arrived! The Wedding Academy proudly introduces the Global Wedding Excellence Awards (GWEA) – our inaugural celebration of exceptional talent throughout the wedding industry.

After mentoring over 8,000 wedding professionals across two decades, we've witnessed the extraordinary passion, creativity, and dedication that defines this industry. Now, we're creating the spotlight you deserve. Whether you're a planner crafting flawless events, a photographer capturing timeless moments, or a newcomer bringing fresh innovation, GWEA offers the perfect platform to showcase your excellence to the world.

The awards span eight global regions including Asia, Africa, Europe, Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East, with categories covering every specialty from planning and venues to floristry and entertainment. Our unique process combines public appreciation with expert evaluation – after applications close April 30th, public voting will determine finalists before our distinguished panel selects winners to be announced July 1st, 2025.

Winning means more than just bragging rights. Recipients gain powerful industry validation, extensive media coverage, marketing opportunities, and official badges that differentiate you in a competitive marketplace. Most importantly, it's your chance to be recognized for the magic you create behind the scenes every day.

Ready to take your place among the best? Submit your nomination at weddingacademyglobal.com/awards today. With over 100 entries already received, this promises to be a landmark event celebrating wedding professionals worldwide. Your extraordinary work deserves extraordinary recognition – join us in this celebration of wedding excellence!

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🚀 THE ONLY PLACE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO INTERVIEWS BEFORE THEY DROP!

🎥 Want behind-the-scenes access to our guest interviews before they go live on the podcast? Want to actually be there for some of the live recordings? Then you NEED to be inside our Facebook group—the VIP lounge for 7,000+ wedding pros just like you.

💬 Rub shoulders with Jac & Ben
❓ Ask YOUR questions before we hit record
🎉 Network, learn, and grow alongside industry leaders
📢 Join discussions that don’t make it to air

👉 Join the community now: facebook.com/groups/weddingempirespodcast
👰‍♀️ This is where the real conversation happens. Don’t just listen—experience it.

📲 LET’S STAY CONNECTED

🌐 Website & Courses: www.weddingacademyglobal.com
📸 Instagram: @weddingacademylive
🎶 TikTok: @weddingacademylive
📺 YouTube: Wedding Academy TV
👍 Facebook: Wedding Academy Global

🎓 READY TO BUILD YOUR WEDDING EMPIRE?
Join thousands of ambitious creatives leveling up inside WeddingAcademyGlobal.com. Whether you'...

Ask Jac & Ben A Question!

Step into the world of wedding photography with Craig Peterman, a visionary who has mastered the art of building a brand that resonates with couples. Join us as we explore Craig's inspiring journey, starting from his roots in high school photography to becoming a sought-after name in the wedding industry. His unique approach to storytelling, where candid moments take center stage, offers invaluable insights for aspiring photographers looking to make their mark.

Discover how Craig emphasizes an authentic client experience, crafting luxury services that cater to each couple's narrative. We'll dive into the challenges of navigating a saturated market and learn how fostering genuine relationships holds the key to success. You'll also hear about the importance of capturing the unscripted moments that truly reflect the joy and chaos of wedding days.

With practical advice on branding and marketing strategies tailored to the wedding photography landscape, Craig shares the lessons he's learned throughout his career. So, whether you’re a newly-engaged couple or a photographer keen on refining your craft, there’s something in this episode for you!

Join the conversation, subscribe to our podcast, and don't forget to share your favorite moments from the episode!

Support the show

🚀 THE ONLY PLACE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO INTERVIEWS BEFORE THEY DROP!

🎥 Want behind-the-scenes access to our guest interviews before they go live on the podcast? Want to actually be there for some of the live recordings? Then you NEED to be inside our Facebook group—the VIP lounge for 7,000+ wedding pros just like you.

💬 Rub shoulders with Jac & Ben
❓ Ask YOUR questions before we hit record
🎉 Network, learn, and grow alongside industry leaders
📢 Join discussions that don’t make it to air

👉 Join the community now: facebook.com/groups/weddingempirespodcast
👰‍♀️ This is where the real conversation happens. Don’t just listen—experience it.

📲 LET’S STAY CONNECTED

🌐 Website & Courses: www.weddingacademyglobal.com
📸 Instagram: @weddingacademylive
🎶 TikTok: @weddingacademylive
📺 YouTube: Wedding Academy TV
👍 Facebook: Wedding Academy Global

🎓 READY TO BUILD YOUR WEDDING EMPIRE?
Join thousands of ambitious creatives leveling up inside WeddingAcademyGlobal.com. Whether you'...

Ask Jac & Ben A Question!

Sally Gallis, a former drama teacher with a passion for storytelling, has made a striking transition into the world of wedding planning, founding her own successful business, Luna and the Lane, in Brighton. She unravels her fascinating journey from the classroom to orchestrating unforgettable celebrations, revealing how her drama teaching skills played a pivotal role in shaping her new career. Sally’s story is more than just a career change; it’s a testament to courage and the incredible power of transferable skills that many educators possess when they seek new paths.

Facing the unpredictable nature of weddings, Sally shares her initial struggles and how she cleverly leveraged her production background to navigate her new industry. She opens up about the challenges of building a reputation without a portfolio and how understanding her ideal client became a game-changer. Her journey is peppered with insights about the importance of collaboration, networking, and perseverance, accompanied by relatable anecdotes, including that iconic "Jerry Maguire" moment that every entrepreneur can relate to when seeking validation and support.

As Sally's business flourished, the role of mentorship and networking became central to her success, particularly during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through personal stories and experiences, she emphasizes the importance of remaining calm in high-pressure situations and nurturing personal relationships that bring a unique touch to her work. Sally leaves us with practical advice for budding wedding planners, underscoring the significance of embracing new experiences, enjoying simple pleasures like a favorite pair of shoes, and maintaining a balance between being dedicated and not taking life too seriously.

Support the show

🚀 THE ONLY PLACE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO INTERVIEWS BEFORE THEY DROP!

🎥 Want behind-the-scenes access to our guest interviews before they go live on the podcast? Want to actually be there for some of the live recordings? Then you NEED to be inside our Facebook group—the VIP lounge for 7,000+ wedding pros just like you.

💬 Rub shoulders with Jac & Ben
❓ Ask YOUR questions before we hit record
🎉 Network, learn, and grow alongside industry leaders
📢 Join discussions that don’t make it to air

👉 Join the community now: facebook.com/groups/weddingempirespodcast
👰‍♀️ This is where the real conversation happens. Don’t just listen—experience it.

📲 LET’S STAY CONNECTED

🌐 Website & Courses: www.weddingacademyglobal.com
📸 Instagram: @weddingacademylive
🎶 TikTok: @weddingacademylive
📺 YouTube: Wedding Academy TV
👍 Facebook: Wedding Academy Global

🎓 READY TO BUILD YOUR WEDDING EMPIRE?
Join thousands of ambitious creatives leveling up inside WeddingAcademyGlobal.com. Whether you'...

Ask Jac & Ben A Question!

What if you could safeguard your wedding business against unexpected challenges and legal pitfalls? Join us on this eye-opening episode of Wedding Empires as we welcome the formidable Leah Weinberg, a former wedding planner who has seamlessly transitioned back into law to become a pivotal force in the wedding industry. 

Leah shares her unique journey, unveiling how she established Weinberg Legal amidst the COVID-19 pandemic to champion the needs of wedding and event professionals. 

Her background provides her with a rare perspective, enabling her to dispel common legal misconceptions and underline the necessity of clear, comprehensive contracts. Leah's insights are not just about preventing legal headaches; they are about empowering vendors to manage expectations and secure fair compensation for their hard work.

Throughout the episode, we dive into the critical importance of force majeure clauses and the ramifications of unforeseen events on weddings. Leah enlightens listeners on essential strategies to handle contract rescheduling or cancellations proactively. 

Our discussion also navigates the murky waters of legal blind spots, such as poor communication, which often lead to disputes. Leah stresses the significance of working with an attorney to build robust contracts and the risks of relying on generic templates. 

Delving into the nuances of passing credit card fees to clients, she highlights the legal variances across states. Ultimately, Leah's message is clear: investing in professional legal advice is not just prudent; it's a strategic move to future-proof your business.

Connect With Leah

Website: weinberglegal.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/leah-weinberg-50655a19

Support the show

🚀 THE ONLY PLACE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO INTERVIEWS BEFORE THEY DROP!

🎥 Want behind-the-scenes access to our guest interviews before they go live on the podcast? Want to actually be there for some of the live recordings? Then you NEED to be inside our Facebook group—the VIP lounge for 7,000+ wedding pros just like you.

💬 Rub shoulders with Jac & Ben
❓ Ask YOUR questions before we hit record
🎉 Network, learn, and grow alongside industry leaders
📢 Join discussions that don’t make it to air

👉 Join the community now: facebook.com/groups/weddingempirespodcast
👰‍♀️ This is where the real conversation happens. Don’t just listen—experience it.

📲 LET’S STAY CONNECTED

🌐 Website & Courses: www.weddingacademyglobal.com
📸 Instagram: @weddingacademylive
🎶 TikTok: @weddingacademylive
📺 YouTube: Wedding Academy TV
👍 Facebook: Wedding Academy Global

🎓 READY TO BUILD YOUR WEDDING EMPIRE?
Join thousands of ambitious creatives leveling up inside WeddingAcademyGlobal.com. Whether you'...

Ask Jac & Ben A Question!

Join us as we embark on a captivating journey into the world of destination weddings with the remarkable Alida Silify C., a distinguished wedding planner from Eastern Europe. Ever wondered what it takes to plan an international wedding and why Hungary is becoming a hotspot for such events? Get ready to uncover Alida's fascinating path into the industry, her expert strategies for navigating cultural nuances, and how she bridges the gap in language and time zones with international clients. This episode promises an exhilarating look into becoming a trusted expert in the destination wedding market, filled with Alida's firsthand insights and anecdotes that will leave you inspired and informed.

As we explore further, Alida graciously shares her treasure trove of resources for planning weddings in Hungary. Whether you're an aspiring wedding planner or a curious couple, discover the wealth of knowledge available through her educational website, alidawedding.com, and the valuable connections offered by the Wedding Academy. My co-host, Ben, and I are thrilled to showcase Alida’s invaluable contributions to the industry, making this episode a must-listen for anyone eager to expand their horizons in wedding planning. From practical advice to potential collaborations, immerse yourself in this rich tapestry of knowledge that Alida so generously provides.

Support the show

🚀 THE ONLY PLACE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO INTERVIEWS BEFORE THEY DROP!

🎥 Want behind-the-scenes access to our guest interviews before they go live on the podcast? Want to actually be there for some of the live recordings? Then you NEED to be inside our Facebook group—the VIP lounge for 7,000+ wedding pros just like you.

💬 Rub shoulders with Jac & Ben
❓ Ask YOUR questions before we hit record
🎉 Network, learn, and grow alongside industry leaders
📢 Join discussions that don’t make it to air

👉 Join the community now: facebook.com/groups/weddingempirespodcast
👰‍♀️ This is where the real conversation happens. Don’t just listen—experience it.

📲 LET’S STAY CONNECTED

🌐 Website & Courses: www.weddingacademyglobal.com
📸 Instagram: @weddingacademylive
🎶 TikTok: @weddingacademylive
📺 YouTube: Wedding Academy TV
👍 Facebook: Wedding Academy Global

🎓 READY TO BUILD YOUR WEDDING EMPIRE?
Join thousands of ambitious creatives leveling up inside WeddingAcademyGlobal.com. Whether you'...

Ask Jac & Ben A Question!

Unlock the secrets to a thriving wedding business and a balanced life as we welcome Heidi Thompson, the bestselling author behind "Clone Your Best Clients" and the mastermind of Evolve Your Wedding Business. 

Discover how the upcoming Wedding Business CEO Summit on the 17th February can transform your work weeks from exhausting marathons to sustainable journeys. 

Heidi shares her unique motivation for creating a free, accessible space where wedding professionals can focus not just on booking more weddings but also on nurturing their personal well-being. With specialized sessions like Caitlin Blair's on ADHD-friendly workflows, this summit is designed to meet diverse needs and help you create a business that fits your lifestyle.

Join us on an exhilarating global journey as Heidi and I explore the excitement and challenges of embarking on worldwide tours. 

Together, we delve into the transformative experiences that come with such ventures, and I express my enthusiasm to join her remarkable podcast as a guest. Heidi's contribution as an inspiring speaker at our event is invaluable, and she leaves us with insights that resonate deeply. 

Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn from 45 incredible experts, and be sure to secure your free ticket using the link in the show notes. This episode promises to be an empowering and enlightening experience for anyone in the wedding industry.

🎟 Grab your free ticket here 🎟
Event kicks off 17 February 2025

Support the show

🚀 THE ONLY PLACE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO INTERVIEWS BEFORE THEY DROP!

🎥 Want behind-the-scenes access to our guest interviews before they go live on the podcast? Want to actually be there for some of the live recordings? Then you NEED to be inside our Facebook group—the VIP lounge for 7,000+ wedding pros just like you.

💬 Rub shoulders with Jac & Ben
❓ Ask YOUR questions before we hit record
🎉 Network, learn, and grow alongside industry leaders
📢 Join discussions that don’t make it to air

👉 Join the community now: facebook.com/groups/weddingempirespodcast
👰‍♀️ This is where the real conversation happens. Don’t just listen—experience it.

📲 LET’S STAY CONNECTED

🌐 Website & Courses: www.weddingacademyglobal.com
📸 Instagram: @weddingacademylive
🎶 TikTok: @weddingacademylive
📺 YouTube: Wedding Academy TV
👍 Facebook: Wedding Academy Global

🎓 READY TO BUILD YOUR WEDDING EMPIRE?
Join thousands of ambitious creatives leveling up inside WeddingAcademyGlobal.com. Whether you'...

Ask Jac & Ben A Question!

How does a spontaneous trip to Japan end up with an unexpected twist, and what does it have to do with our voice struggles? Join us on this quirky adventure as we come back from a whirlwind trip filled with unexpected turns, including a hospital visit that put our vocal cords to the test. As we gear up for upcoming travels to Malaysia and Vegas, we toss around jokes about Vegas weddings while diving into the current wedding industry trends. The impact of economic factors like inflation and interest rates is no laughing matter, but the rise in inquiries has us optimistic for a brighter future. 

We're closing out Season 3 with a bang and a touch of drama worthy of reality TV itself. Reminisce with us over unforgettable moments like Aviva Drescher's prosthetic leg throw, and ponder how editing can turn timelines topsy-turvy. With Season 4 on the horizon and pre-recorded content in the pipeline, expect tales of disastrous weddings and unexpected antics. Throw in your own stories, and let's spice things up together. A heartfelt thank you for your incredible support over 26 episodes—we promise to return with even more laughter, chaos, and captivating content!

Support the show

🚀 THE ONLY PLACE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO INTERVIEWS BEFORE THEY DROP!

🎥 Want behind-the-scenes access to our guest interviews before they go live on the podcast? Want to actually be there for some of the live recordings? Then you NEED to be inside our Facebook group—the VIP lounge for 7,000+ wedding pros just like you.

💬 Rub shoulders with Jac & Ben
❓ Ask YOUR questions before we hit record
🎉 Network, learn, and grow alongside industry leaders
📢 Join discussions that don’t make it to air

👉 Join the community now: facebook.com/groups/weddingempirespodcast
👰‍♀️ This is where the real conversation happens. Don’t just listen—experience it.

📲 LET’S STAY CONNECTED

🌐 Website & Courses: www.weddingacademyglobal.com
📸 Instagram: @weddingacademylive
🎶 TikTok: @weddingacademylive
📺 YouTube: Wedding Academy TV
👍 Facebook: Wedding Academy Global

🎓 READY TO BUILD YOUR WEDDING EMPIRE?
Join thousands of ambitious creatives leveling up inside WeddingAcademyGlobal.com. Whether you'...

Ask Jac & Ben A Question!

Join us as we sit down with Jessica Bishop, the inspiring founder of the Budget Savvy Bride, who transformed her personal wedding planning blog into a go-to destination for budget-conscious couples. Discover Jessica’s journey and her innovative strategies to grow a brand from scratch without spending a fortune. Learn from her experience of juggling a full-time job while reinvesting in her blog. Aspiring wedding professionals will gain invaluable insights on building businesses sustainably, underscored by Jessica’s remarkable achievement of selling over 250,000 copies of her best-selling book through savvy network leverage.

Tune in to uncover cost-effective press and marketing secrets for wedding pros, featuring platforms like Qwoted, HARO, and Source Bottle that connect experts with journalists in search of insights. Social media, especially Pinterest, emerges as a vital tool for capturing attention and potential clients, with expert advice from industry leaders such as Megan Ely. Our conversation also explores the efficiency gained through social media scheduling tools, allowing wedding planners to save time while focusing on what truly matters. With Jessica’s insights, you’ll be equipped to maximize your reach and plan unforgettable weddings on a budget.

Jessica Bishop |

Website | www.thebudgetsavvybride.com
LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/in/jessicalehrybishop/
Instagram | @budgetsavvybride
Facebook Page | www.facebook.com/budgetsavvybride

Support the show

🚀 THE ONLY PLACE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO INTERVIEWS BEFORE THEY DROP!

🎥 Want behind-the-scenes access to our guest interviews before they go live on the podcast? Want to actually be there for some of the live recordings? Then you NEED to be inside our Facebook group—the VIP lounge for 7,000+ wedding pros just like you.

💬 Rub shoulders with Jac & Ben
❓ Ask YOUR questions before we hit record
🎉 Network, learn, and grow alongside industry leaders
📢 Join discussions that don’t make it to air

👉 Join the community now: facebook.com/groups/weddingempirespodcast
👰‍♀️ This is where the real conversation happens. Don’t just listen—experience it.

📲 LET’S STAY CONNECTED

🌐 Website & Courses: www.weddingacademyglobal.com
📸 Instagram: @weddingacademylive
🎶 TikTok: @weddingacademylive
📺 YouTube: Wedding Academy TV
👍 Facebook: Wedding Academy Global

🎓 READY TO BUILD YOUR WEDDING EMPIRE?
Join thousands of ambitious creatives leveling up inside WeddingAcademyGlobal.com. Whether you'...

Ask Jac & Ben A Question!

Discover the captivating world of wedding cinematography with Dimitris Tavlidis, a celebrated filmmaker from Greece with a portfolio boasting over 400 destination weddings. Dimitris shares his incredible journey from filming a bride's preparation to becoming a sought-after expert in the wedding industry. Learn the art of creating seamless, memorable events by building strong relationships with fellow vendors and professionals. Dimitris sheds light on essential strategies for effective communication, flexibility, and mutual respect, and reveals how these elements contribute to an unforgettable experience for couples and foster lasting collaborations.

Explore the pivotal collaboration between cinematographers, photographers, and planners, as Dimitris offers invaluable insights into discreet documentation and creating optimal conditions for capturing a couple's special day. Discover the power of teamwork and social media in enhancing visibility and success for all involved. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the wedding scene, Dimitris's advice on patience, persistence, and mastering your craft will prove indispensable in navigating this competitive market. Don’t miss his stories of capturing love against Greece's stunning backdrops and find links to his work in the show notes.

Connect with Dimitri:
Website | www.dimitrispavlidisfilms.com
Instagram | @‌dimitris.pavlidis.filmmaker
Facebook | facebook.com/dimitris.pavlidis.visionfilms

Support the show

🚀 THE ONLY PLACE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO INTERVIEWS BEFORE THEY DROP!

🎥 Want behind-the-scenes access to our guest interviews before they go live on the podcast? Want to actually be there for some of the live recordings? Then you NEED to be inside our Facebook group—the VIP lounge for 7,000+ wedding pros just like you.

💬 Rub shoulders with Jac & Ben
❓ Ask YOUR questions before we hit record
🎉 Network, learn, and grow alongside industry leaders
📢 Join discussions that don’t make it to air

👉 Join the community now: facebook.com/groups/weddingempirespodcast
👰‍♀️ This is where the real conversation happens. Don’t just listen—experience it.

📲 LET’S STAY CONNECTED

🌐 Website & Courses: www.weddingacademyglobal.com
📸 Instagram: @weddingacademylive
🎶 TikTok: @weddingacademylive
📺 YouTube: Wedding Academy TV
👍 Facebook: Wedding Academy Global

🎓 READY TO BUILD YOUR WEDDING EMPIRE?
Join thousands of ambitious creatives leveling up inside WeddingAcademyGlobal.com. Whether you'...

Ask Jac & Ben A Question!

In this exciting episode of Wedding Empires, we’re joined by the incredible Meghan Ely, owner of OFD Consulting and one of the most influential voices in the wedding industry. Meghan combines her in-the-trenches event experience with her PR expertise to help wedding professionals get the recognition they deserve. With accolades from the Public Relations Society of America and Eventex, Meghan has a proven track record of elevating brands through media exposure. Her clients have been featured in prestigious outlets like The Knot, Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides, Architectural Digest, and Style Me Pretty.

During our conversation, Meghan shares actionable tips and strategies for wedding pros looking to break into top-tier publications and grow their businesses. Whether you’re a planner, photographer, florist, or another wedding vendor, you’ll learn:

• How to craft compelling pitches that editors can’t resist.
• The must-have elements of a successful submission.
• How to build and maintain strong relationships with editors and media outlets.
• The secret to standing out in a crowded and competitive market.
• Ways to leverage your media features to attract more clients and grow your brand.

As a WeddingPro educator and an experienced speaker at major conferences, Meghan has a unique ability to make PR approachable and achievable for everyone. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of wedding publicity and learn how to take your business to new heights by sharing your story with the world.

Support the show

🚀 THE ONLY PLACE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO INTERVIEWS BEFORE THEY DROP!

🎥 Want behind-the-scenes access to our guest interviews before they go live on the podcast? Want to actually be there for some of the live recordings? Then you NEED to be inside our Facebook group—the VIP lounge for 7,000+ wedding pros just like you.

💬 Rub shoulders with Jac & Ben
❓ Ask YOUR questions before we hit record
🎉 Network, learn, and grow alongside industry leaders
📢 Join discussions that don’t make it to air

👉 Join the community now: facebook.com/groups/weddingempirespodcast
👰‍♀️ This is where the real conversation happens. Don’t just listen—experience it.

📲 LET’S STAY CONNECTED

🌐 Website & Courses: www.weddingacademyglobal.com
📸 Instagram: @weddingacademylive
🎶 TikTok: @weddingacademylive
📺 YouTube: Wedding Academy TV
👍 Facebook: Wedding Academy Global

🎓 READY TO BUILD YOUR WEDDING EMPIRE?
Join thousands of ambitious creatives leveling up inside WeddingAcademyGlobal.com. Whether you'...