Wedding Pros who are ready to grow - with Becca Pountney

For a long time we have been serving Millennial couples, but now we are starting to see more and more couples from Gen Z! What do Gen Z couples expect from their wedding planning and how can we serve them better?

In this episode I speak to Randi Bushell, founder of Merri about what Gen Z want, how technology can help and how you can be reaching Gen Z couples with your wedding business.

Click to find out more about Merri.

Find Merri on Instagram

Time Stamps:

Gen Z Communication Preferences [00:00:00] Explains how Gen Z prefers short, frequent communication compared to longer, drawn-out communication.

Introduction to Randi Bushell and Merri [00:01:00] Introduces Randi Bushell, founder and CEO of Merri, a 3D design tool for wedding pros.

The Inspiration Behind Merri [00:02:53] Discusses how Randi came up with the idea for Merri while planning her own wedding and bridging her e-commerce experience with the events industry.

The birth of the informed consumer [00:09:25] How the availability of information online changed the wedding industry and the role of wedding professionals.

The rise of the inspired consumer [00:10:42] The impact of Instagram and Pinterest on the wedding industry, and how millennials were influenced by visual content.

The emergence of the innovative consumer [00:11:49] The unique characteristics of Gen Z, their reliance on technology, and their desire for personalized and intentional experiences.

Setting up milestones and using project management tools [00:19:57] Explains the importance of identifying milestones and using project management tools to track progress and automate tasks.

Fast response times and communication preferences of Gen Z [00:23:28] Discusses the expectation of fast response times, the use of automation, and the preference for short, frequent communication methods like text messaging.

Tech enablement and the importance of technology in wedding planning [00:28:36] Explores how technology has become an integral part of everyday life for Gen Z and its impact on wedding planning, including automation and streamlining processes.

Topic 1: Aligning expectations and communication with clients [00:29:51] Discussion on the importance of automating response times, creating a roadmap, and using preset milestones to align expectations with clients and communicate effectively.

Topic 2: Benefits of Merri software for event planning [00:31:13] Exploration of how Merri software helps event planners, venues, and rental companies in finalizing floor plans, managing logistics, and providing a virtual showroom for rental companies.

Topic 3: Planning accordingly and setting realistic expectations [00:38:21] Advice on planning for longer timelines and higher costs in business endeavors, emphasizing the need to set realistic expectations and be patient in achieving success.

Note: The timestamps provided are approximate and may vary slightly depending on the podcast episode's actual duration.

The changing landscape of wedding planning [00:39:56] Discussion on how wedding planning is evolving over time and the challenges of adapting to new ways of doing things.

Tips for embracing the future of wedding planning [00:40:09] Advice on small steps that can be taken to embrace the changing landscape of wedding planning and stay ahead.

Recommendation to check out innovative software [00:40:09] Encouragement to explore a specific software that is mentioned in the podcast episode and is said to be mind-blowing.

Mentioned in this episode:

Wedding Pro members lounge

Find out more about the wedding pro members lounge:

In today's episode we dive into a topic that is increasingly coming up in conversations I have with clients - ADHD. How do you navigate running a business with ADHD? How can you better serve your neuro diverse couples?

In this episode I dive deep with Nicole Winer as she shares her own experiences of running a business whilst identifying as neuro diverse. It's time to start unmasking ADHD in your wedding business.

Listen to Nicole's Podcast

Find out more about Nicole

Find out more about ADHD

Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/

Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page:

www.beccapountney.com

www.instagram.com/beccapountney

Time Stamps:

Keeping the same format, content, and context, Change 'Speaker 1' to Becca: Understanding ADHD [00:03:10] Explanation of what ADHD is, its characteristics, and how it affects the brain's executive function.

ADHD in Women vs. Men [00:04:13] Discussion on how ADHD presents differently in women compared to men, including the role of hyperactivity and overthinking.

Unmasking ADHD and Dealing with Shame [00:07:15] Exploration of the shame and masking associated with ADHD, and the empowerment and strengths that can come from embracing it.

Unwinding coping mechanisms and stress responses [00:09:25] Becca discusses how masking and coping mechanisms developed in childhood can affect adult experiences, using migraines as a stress response example.

Fear of label and official diagnosis [00:10:21] Becca and Nicole discuss the fear and hesitation around seeking an official diagnosis for ADHD, and the importance of self-acceptance and self-knowledge.

Strengths and limitations of ADHD in business [00:13:11] Nicole highlights the strengths of ADHD in business, such as creativity and hyper-focus, but also discusses the limitations, such as the need for support in executing ideas and managing time.

The struggle of asking for help [00:18:34] Nicole discusses the importance of being vulnerable and asking for help when feeling overwhelmed or unsure.

Networking challenges for introverts [00:20:16] Nicole shares her personal experience as an introvert and how she navigates networking events and large groups of people.

Different approaches to success [00:25:51] Nicole emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to success and encourages listeners to define their own goals and paths.

The importance of community and support [00:27:47] Discussion on the significance of having a supportive community and the role it plays in personal growth and success.

Recognizing and supporting neurodiverse individuals in the wedding industry [00:30:47] Exploring how wedding suppliers and business coaches can be more inclusive and supportive of neurodiverse individuals in the wedding planning process.

Asking for and providing support to neurodiverse individuals [00:33:04] Emphasizing the importance of asking for and providing the necessary support and accommodations for neurodiverse individuals, and the impact it can have on their success and well-being.

The importance of accountability and asking for help [00:37:10] Nicole discusses how having more accountability and asking for help would have accelerated their progress and reduced shame.

Acknowledgment and gratitude for the guest [00:37:10] Becca expresses gratitude to Nicole for openly discussing the topic and acknowledges the value they bring to others.

Encouragement to explore the guest's podcast [00:38:09] Becca invites listeners to check out the guest's podcast, "Supercharge Your Business," and provides information on where to find it online.

Today I'm chatting with DJ Mike Readings, I LOVE sharing my wedding pro members lounge stories, they are always fascinating - and Mikes is no different!

From working on a Disney Cruise to owning two successful entertainment companies, Mike has a huge amount of knowledge to share. Listen to his journey as he shares his experience of growing a successful wedding DJ Business.

Find out more about the Wedding Pro Members Lounge:

https://go.beccapountney.com/wedpro

Find out more about Mike:

https://www.djmikereadings.co.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/dj_mike_readings

https://www.discofactoryuk.com/

Time Stamps:

Starting as a DJ [00:01:31] Mike shares how he started his journey as a DJ, buying gear and doing gigs in nightclubs and pubs.

Working for Disney [00:02:41] Mike talks about his time working for Disney on one of their cruise lines and how it sparked his passion for DJing.

Learning from Carphone Warehouse and Disney [00:04:47] Mike discusses how his experiences working at Carphone Warehouse and Disney have shaped his sales pitch and business approach.

The Disney Training Experience [00:09:18] Mike discusses his experience working for Disney, including the bizarre morning rituals and the impact it had on his entertainment skills.

Transitioning to Full-Time DJ [00:12:04] Mike talks about quitting his job at Carphone Warehouse and taking on window cleaning as a part-time job to pursue his DJ career.

Adapting During COVID-19 [00:16:34] Mike shares how he worked for Sainsbury's and did Zoom kids parties during the pandemic, and how it motivated him to take his business to the next level.

Building Relationships with Suppliers and Venues [00:24:45] Mike discusses his approach to building relationships with suppliers and wedding venues, emphasizing the importance of being nice, communicating effectively, and showing appreciation.

The Power of Communication [00:26:14] Mike highlights the significance of regular communication, particularly through a pre-wedding email, in ensuring a smooth and organized wedding day. He shares how this simple gesture can prevent uncertainty and build trust with venues and couples.

Simplicity and Gratitude in Building Relationships [00:28:55] Becca and Mike stress the simplicity of building relationships with venues and suppliers, emphasizing the value of saying thank you, being organized, and avoiding uncertainty. They discuss the impact of appreciation and positive feedback on business growth.

The importance of sending emails consistently [00:30:03] Mike discusses the importance of consistently sending emails and how he plans to outsource this task during busy seasons.

Advice for someone starting out in the wedding industry [00:30:47] Mike advises new wedding industry professionals to seek advice from experienced individuals rather than relying on family and friends.

The importance of having a life plan [00:34:34] Mike reflects on the importance of having a life plan, not just a business plan, and how he wishes he had thought about his future earlier in his career.

Fed up of getting ghosted? This episode is here to help. I'm joined by wedding industry legend Alan Berg who is going to be sharing SO much great information about how to respond to directory enquiries and not get ghosted. It's time to stop the ghosting in your wedding business, because it's not a no until it's a no.

Find out more about Alan

Get £50 off tickets to Alans event in London

Buy Alans books. - Use coupon code 'podcast' for free shipping

Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/

Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page:

www.beccapountney.com

www.instagram.com/beccapountney

Mentioned in this episode:

Wedding Pro members lounge

Find out more about the wedding pro members lounge:

Do you need to get organised in your wedding business? In today's episode I'm joined by Carin Hunt as she shares how to manage your time and create a winning week. From how to plan ahead, to creating focus days, this episode is guaranteed to help you be more organised and free you up for the things and people you love.

Grab a copy of the Weekly Focus Template

Find out about Carin's planner

Find out more about Celebration Pros.

Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/

Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page:

www.beccapountney.com

www.instagram.com/beccapountney

Mentioned in this episode:

Join the FREE 'Get Visible and Book More Weddings' audio bootcamp now

Feeling stuck? This free training is designed to help you revaluate your wedding business and move forwards towards more bookings.

Audio bootcamp

Do you feel like you have a never ending to do list? Are you struggling to get everything done? In today's episode I'm asking whether you need a freelancer in your wedding business?

In this episode I'm discussing how you know when you need a freelancer, how to find one and how to get the most out of them. If you are considering taking this route then this episode is for you.

Need help finding a freelancer? Speak to us at the Wedding Pro Agency.

Need help growing your wedding business? Check out my audio bootcamp.

Time stamps:

[00:00:57] Using freelancers in my business has been revolutionary. Becca discusses the benefits of hiring freelancers and when to consider it.

[00:02:55] When is the best time to hire a freelancer? Becca explains the importance of hiring a freelancer when your to-do list is overwhelming and you need help with tasks.

[00:04:42] Where to find freelancers? Becca suggests three options: asking colleagues for recommendations, using an agency like the Wedding Pro Agency, or finding someone yourself through local Facebook groups.

Finding the Right Freelancer [00:09:26] Tips on what to look for in a freelancer, including good communication skills and tech savvy.

Identifying Tasks for Freelancers [00:11:11] Exploring repetitive tasks that can be outsourced to freelancers, such as social media posting and email inquiries.

One-Off Projects for Freelancers [00:17:04] Discussing the option of hiring a freelancer for specific projects or tasks that don't require long-term commitment.

Streamlined systems for effective communication [00:19:53] Using Google sheets and drives to streamline communication and tasks between freelancers and the business owner.

Giving autonomy to freelancers [00:21:37] Trusting freelancers to complete tasks independently and respecting their expertise and abilities.

Setting realistic expectations and giving positive feedback [00:24:22] Setting realistic targets and expectations for freelancers, and providing positive feedback to encourage their continued excellent work.

The Wedding Pro Agency [00:27:42] Becca explains the concept of the Wedding Pro Agency, which connects wedding business owners with trained freelancers to help with tasks.

Providing Opportunities [00:28:35] Becca discusses how the Wedding Pro Agency provides work opportunities for individuals who may struggle to find employment in the traditional job market.

Interested in Working with the Wedding Pro Agency? [00:29:31] Becca invites listeners to reach out if they are interested in having the Wedding Pro Agency manage their social media, handle one-off tasks, or assist with other services mentioned in the episode.

Does SEO give you a headache? You want to rise to the top of Google but it just feels like an impossible challenge. In today's episode the fabulous Sara Dunn of Sara Does SEO is breaking it down for you. Her mission - to allow all wedding businesses to understand SEO, without the jargon. In this episode Sara breaks down mastering SEO for your wedding business.

Find out more about Wedding SEO Bootcamp

Find out about working with Sara

Discover Uber suggest

The Q&A Blog Exchange [00:00:00] Sara discusses the idea of a Q&A blog exchange between businesses to generate more content and links.

Introduction to Sara Dunn [00:01:09] Becca introduces Sara Dunn, a wedding specialist who helps wedding pros rank higher in Google.

Sara's Background and SEO for the Wedding Industry [00:01:52] Sara Dunn shares her background and how she got into SEO, specifically for the wedding industry.

Tip 1: Figuring out what people are searching for [00:09:55] Importance of brainstorming keywords and understanding what potential clients are searching for.

Tip 2: Using keywords on your website [00:13:15] The importance of using keywords on your website, including in headings, page text, and SEO titles.

Tip 3: Optimizing specific pages on your site [00:17:47] Avoiding the common mistake of repeating the same keyword throughout the entire website and instead focusing on optimizing specific pages.

Optimizing your homepage and blog content [00:17:57] Sara Dunn explains the importance of optimizing the homepage for the most important keyword and expanding on other related keywords through blog content.

The role of Google Business Profile in SEO [00:20:13] Sara Dunn emphasizes the significance of setting up a Google Business Profile to communicate important information about your business to Google and build trust.

The importance of backlinks in SEO [00:21:25] Sara Dunn discusses the importance of backlinks in SEO and how they indicate trust and authority, cautioning against buying low-quality links and suggesting guest blogging as a way to obtain high-quality links.

The importance of using tools for accurate SEO ranking [00:26:48] Using tools or an incognito window in Chrome is more accurate than Googling your keywords to check your ranking.

Understanding the Yoast plugin for SEO optimization [00:27:56] The Yoast plugin provides signals on how well your content is optimized, but it doesn't communicate with Google directly.

The Wedding SEO Bootcamp and its benefits [00:31:20] The Wedding SEO Bootcamp is a group program that teaches step-by-step SEO strategies tailored for the wedding industry.

00:35:26 - Note-taking for future reference Becca discusses the practice of making notes in her phone for helpful information that may not be immediately applicable.

00:35:41 - Revisiting information in the quiet season Becca mentions that some listeners may want to wait until the quiet season to revisit the information discussed in the episode.

00:36:13 - Sara's approach to SEO Becca expresses admiration for Sara's down-to-earth approach to search engine optimization and encourages listeners to check out her bootcamp and other resources.

Today I'm chatting with wedding photographer Georgia Mcgilley. Georgia is always looking to create new revenue streams into her wedding business and in today's episode I get her to break down her business journey and what that looks like in practice. We discuss all of her different ideas and why they have worked for her.

There are multiple ways your business can bring in revenue - so why not get creative!

Visit Georgia's website

Find Georgia on Instagram

Find out more about the next Styled Shoot workshop

Time Stamps:

Investing in the Business [00:00:00] Georgia discusses the importance of investing money in the business and how it helped her grow faster.

Introduction to Georgia McGill [00:00:59] Becca introduces Georgia as a wedding photographer with multiple income streams and discusses their previous collaborations.

Starting in the Wedding Industry [00:01:57] Georgia shares how she stumbled into the wedding industry and her journey from being a hobbyist photographer to starting her own business.

The benefits of style shoots [00:10:53] Discussion on the value of style shoots for photographers, building portfolios, and expanding networks.

Making the most of style shoot images [00:11:55] Exploring the various ways photographers can use style shoot images for marketing and branding purposes.

Benefits of attending a workshop [00:15:01] Advantages of attending a workshop over organizing one's own style shoot, including networking opportunities and building relationships with other photographers.

The importance of budgeting and investing in your business [00:20:03] Georgia discusses the importance of budgeting and investing in her business, including upgrading equipment and attending courses or networking events.

The value of planning and completing courses [00:21:21] Becca and Georgia emphasize the importance of planning and scheduling time to complete courses, rather than letting them fall by the wayside.

The benefits of diversifying income streams [00:26:08] Georgia shares how COVID-19 prompted her to diversify her income streams, leading to the growth of different aspects of her photography business and providing financial security.

[00:30:22] Wedding Content and Other Lifestyle Photos Discussion about the variety of content available on Georgia's website, including wedding photos and lifestyle images.

[00:31:43] Using Stock Photos Ethically Exploring how photographers can use stock photos to provide inspiration and tips to clients without pretending they are their own work.

[00:33:38] Future Plans: Workshops and Building Client Relationships Georgia's plans to expand her workshops to provide more educational opportunities for photographers and her goal of establishing long-term relationships with clients.

Mentioned in this episode:

Join the FREE 'Get Visible and Book More Weddings' audio bootcamp now

Feeling stuck? This free training is designed to help you revaluate your wedding business and move forwards towards more bookings.

Audio bootcamp

Today I'm chatting with Carolyn Kulb, the founder of The Bloom Poet, a boutique wedding floral and event design studio in Seattle. We dive into Carolyn's journey in the wedding industry, starting as a flower farmer and transitioning into the wedding floral business. We talk about the challenges she faced in the early years and the changes she made to make her business more profitable. Carolyn shares her gentle sales system and how she follows up with potential clients, providing valuable information even if they don't initially reply. Learn why you should pay attention to the Gentle Sales system for your wedding business.

Get a copy of Carolyn's '10 gentle sales email's' here.

Visit Carolyn's website

Find Carolyn on Instagram

Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/

Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page:

www.beccapountney.com

www.instagram.com/beccapountney

Time stamps:

The Gentle Sales System [00:01:03]

Carolyn discusses her successful gentle sales system that helps her book clients and avoid being ghosted.

Starting as a Flower Farmer [00:02:17]

Carolyn shares her journey of starting as a flower farmer and transitioning into the wedding floral business.

Challenges and Mistakes in the Early Years [00:05:26]

Carolyn talks about the challenges she faced in the early years, including marketing and sales mistakes, and how she overcame them.

The sustainability of wedding flowers [00:09:41]

Carolyn discusses the efforts her business makes to source sustainable and locally grown flowers for weddings.

Setting the minimum spend and pricing strategy [00:11:03]

Carolyn explains how she determined her minimum spend and pricing strategy based on factors such as supply chain, inflation, and the need for financial sustainability.

The customer journey and gentle sales system [00:14:38]

Carolyn walks through the steps of her customer journey, including website inquiries, automated emails, and personalized videos, to build trust and find the right clients.

The importance of transparency and building trust [00:19:08]

Carolyn discusses the importance of being transparent with clients and building trust by providing all the necessary information upfront.

Serving clients by providing information [00:19:51]

Becca and Carolyn talk about the value of providing clients with all the information they need to make an informed decision, and how it can save time for both parties.

Taking pressure off initial calls and focusing on helping the client [00:25:18]

Carolyn shares her approach to taking the pressure off sales calls by focusing on helping the client rather than closing the sale, and being prepared to refer clients to other vendors if necessary.

The initial sales call [00:29:28]

Carolyn discusses the process of the initial sales call, including discussing the couple's vision, needs, and budget.

Sending the questionnaire [00:30:19]

After the call, Carolyn sends the couple a questionnaire to gather more details about their wedding, including specific floral preferences.

Building relationships and getting referrals [00:35:40]

Carolyn explains how her gentle sales system leads to strong relationships with clients, resulting in positive reviews, referrals, and repeat business.

The challenges of running a wedding business [00:37:48]

Carolyn discusses the importance of learning business skills and the reality of spending more time on marketing and sales than on the craft itself.

Continual learning in the wedding industry [00:38:40]

Becca and Carolyn emphasize the importance of always learning and growing in the wedding industry.

Where to find Carolyn and her resources [00:38:51]

Carolyn shares her website, Instagram, and Facebook community where she provides resources and support for wedding professionals.

Mentioned in this episode:

Wedding Pro Business Builder

My signature programme the Wedding Pro Business Builder is LIVE and you will want to take a look at it! Find all the details on the link below:

Wed Pro Biz Builder

Today I am chatting with Kerry Curl - former hair and makeup artist turned business coach. We talk openly about Kerry's wedding business success journey and how her business has evolved. We talk about overcoming adversity and scaling your wedding business for success. If you want an inspiring wedding business story - this is it!

Visit Kerry's website

Find Kerry on Instagram

Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/

Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page:

www.beccapountney.com

www.instagram.com/beccapountney

Time stamps:

The Start of Kerry's Journey [00:01:18] Kerry talks about how she got started in the wedding hair and makeup industry and her initial doubts and fears.

Transition to Full-Time [00:03:47] Kerry discusses how she transitioned from doing hair and makeup as a side hustle to making it her full-time career.

Mistakes in the Early Days [00:06:26] Kerry reflects on the mistakes she made in the early days of her business, including not having a website and approaching photographers without any authority or positioning.

The importance of cultivating relationships with venue managers and coordinators [00:09:41] Kerry discusses how she noticed that most of her leads were coming from recommendations and how she started building relationships with venue managers and coordinators to expand her reach.

The experience of hiring a mentor and the challenges faced [00:10:11] Kerry talks about her decision to hire a mentor, the initial skepticism in the industry, and her disappointing experience with her first mentor.

Learning from a bad mentoring experience and finding the right fit [00:13:20] Kerry shares how she didn't let her bad experience deter her from seeking the right mentor, the importance of finding the right person to work with, and how it made her a better mentor for her own clients.

The mindset shift [00:19:38] Kerry discusses the importance of shifting her mindset from being an individual artist to being a team leader.

Choosing the right team [00:20:15] Kerry talks about the process of selecting the right people for her team and the importance of building strong relationships with them.

Marketing mistakes and business growth [00:23:54] Kerry reflects on the highs and lows of her business journey, including the mistake of marketing her business to everyone and the importance of hiring a mentor for guidance.

The importance of personal branding [00:29:30] Tips on how to separate yourself from the competition and grow a personal brand in the wedding industry.

Acquiring business skills [00:30:40] The need for hair and makeup artists to acquire business skills in order to be successful.

Getting first clients without appearing desperate [00:31:34] Tips on how to attract clients without resorting to low prices or giving away services for free.

The highs and lows of entrepreneurship [00:39:41] Kerry discusses the challenges and rewards of being a female entrepreneur and the ups and downs of running a business.

The importance of getting help [00:40:48] Kerry shares her realization that getting help and outsourcing tasks can greatly contribute to scaling a business.

Wrapping up the conversation with Kerry [00:42:13] Becca expresses her enjoyment of the conversation with Kerry and looks forward to the next episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Wedding Pro agency

Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: