The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business Andy Kushner

Andy is so honored to bring Tori Williams of Tori Williams Events onto the show today! Tori is a world renowned luxury event curator who has showcased her work on major television networks such as Lifetime, Bravo, and The Food Network, and she is even the star of the VH1 original series My Celebrity Dream Wedding! She joins Andy today to discuss everything from childhood influences to pivotal moments that shaped her career!
Tori shares her journey from cosmetology to becoming a sought-after event curator and designer. With a client list featuring names like Tyler Perry Studios and the Atlanta Ballet, Tori's expertise extends beyond simply planning events; it's about crafting unforgettable experiences!
Listen in, and discover the secrets behind Tori's rapid success as she sheds light on the importance of client experience, the creative process, and the challenges of balancing business with creativity. From TV appearances to hosting workshops, Tori's passion for her craft shines through as she discusses her plans for the future, including a focus on large-scale productions and education initiatives.
Join Andy for an inspiring conversation filled with insights into the world of high-end event planning and the dedication it takes to create magic for clients. He hopes that you enjoy this conversation, and if you do, he would really appreciate it if you didn’t keep it to yourself and were to share it with a few good friends and industry colleagues who might also enjoy it! He would also appreciate it if you were to leave a top review wherever you listen to the show because that really helps the show out! Lastly, don’t forget to follow The Wedding Biz on Instagram and subscribe to the podcast so that you never miss a new episode when it drops!
 
Have you heard about Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey on The Wedding Biz Network? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don't forget about Sean Low's podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.
 
SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ
Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!
 
Time Stamps
[0:04] - Andy announces that, to catch up on past interviews, two new episodes per month will be released temporarily.
[0:50] - Andy’s guest today is Tori Williams of Tori Williams Events!
[2:17] - Tori reflects on how her grandma's influence shaped her love for hosting events and how pursuing cosmetology led to a master license.
[4:41] - Why and when did Tori transition into event planning?
[7:26] - Tori’s focus is on the experience, making clients feel special in their milestone events.
[10:14] - Tori never actively pursued television opportunities; they found her through social media or referrals.
[12:40] - Balancing regular job duties with TV filming was stressful but valuable for Tori's brand.
[14:28] - Tori reveals that she is expanding beyond weddings and is focusing on larger productions and diverse events.
[17:56] - From where does Tori get her inspiration?
[20:20] - Tori shares how, last year, she organized an award show for entrepreneurs, embracing creativity without client direction.

[22:25] - Tori also gives an example of having coordinated a wedding for a friend, putting trust into the design process.

[25:11] - Tori argues that strong business ethics, a dedicated team, and structure are crucial for success.
[28:00] - Tori restarted hosting workshops post-COVID, attracting 32,000 subscribers through webinars and challenges.
[30:47] - Tori reveals that she often speaks on event production, luxury industry entry, celebrity clients, television, and business insights.
[31:39] - In her current career, Tori aims for a few large productions anually and

Tune in to this episode of the podcast as Andy talks with Christina Matteucci, executive director of David Beahm Experiences! Christina has actually been on the podcast before in episodes 188, 307, 346, and 214, and she joins Andy in this episode to discuss how everything that we do in business has an element of performance involved and how we can best understand and use performance when dealing with clients and giving presentations.
The main focus of Andy’s and Christina’s conversation is the importance of using storytelling – especially storytelling that employs effective imagery – when engaging in a sales pitch, corresponding with clients, and with public speaking. Storytelling is an interwoven part of what it means to be human because we love to both tell and hear stories. Stories draw us in, and, in fact, Christina even recommends starting a sales pitch with a story even if the story isn’t relevant to what you’re selling or proposing!
Christina talks about what techniques that she has learned as far as storytelling and preparation are concerned, techniques that she learned having been a student of Storytelling School. She stresses the importance of understanding who your client is and that your performance might be different depending on the demographics of your audience. She and Andy also reflect on current times and how the need for meeting virtually via tools such as Zoom has been on the rise. They discuss how to make use of the techniques upon which Christina elaborates when meeting virtually and how meeting virtually differs from meeting in person.
Performing and telling stories is not a skill with which we are all born, nor is it something that we all necessarily enjoy. Some of us are not predisposed to it, but, as Christina assures us, it’s not rocket science! You can seek help and advice and can learn. Christina says more than once that it’s important to prepare rather than plan, and she and Andy also talk about how important that it is to not only prepare practically but to also be well rested and hydrated!
Andy hopes that you will enjoy listening to his chat with Christina Matteucci as much as he enjoyed chatting with her. She offers a wealth of helpful information and tips from which listeners can definitely benefit! If you enjoy the episode, reach out to at least three really good friends who might also enjoy and benefit from it, and also be sure to leave a review!
 
Have you heard about Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey on The Wedding Biz Network? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don't forget about Sean Low's podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.
 
SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ
Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!
 
Time Stamps
[2:03] – Today’s episode is a revisit of Andy’s May 2021 interview with Christina Matteucci, executive director of David Beahm Experiences.
[2:14] - Andy posits the idea that there is a level of performance involved in business situations, and Christina clarifies that the performance is authentic.
[3:20] - Christina emphasizes how important imagery and storytelling are for her when she prepares a presentation.
[6:27] - Christina recounts a couple of the storytelling techniques that she has learned.
[8:10] - Christina shares that she learned that she should start a sales pitch with a story.
[10:41] - We learn what Christina does to prepare for a sales pitch.
[12:54] - Christina discusses how she also considers choreography when she prepares for a speech, using her TED Talk as an example of when that was important.
[15:12] - It’s very important, as Christina advises, to listen to hear rather than listen

Join Andy in welcoming Kathleen Deery, the creative force behind Kathleen Deery Design and the Chief Creative Officer of Paula LeDuc Fine Catering & Events, to The Wedding Biz! With a childhood steeped in floral admiration, Kathleen recounts her journey from a small town in New Jersey to the bustling design studios of San Francisco. She shares insights into her role as a tastemaker within the prestigious catering company, highlighting her knack for infusing events with innovation and creativity.
From collaborating with renowned planners to crafting immersive environments, Kathleen's expertise shines through. Listen in as she offers insights into the intricacies of event planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients' visions and creating memorable experiences. Drawing on her experience with high-profile events, Kathleen also shares anecdotes, including a whimsical Bridgerton-themed wedding set amidst lush gardens.
Kathleen also reflects on the demands of her multifaceted role and the perpetual quest for balance, yet amidst the whirlwind, she finds solace in cultivating her own flower garden and nurturing her team's creativity. Looking ahead, Kathleen expresses optimism for the future of Paula LeDuc, fueled by a commitment to excellence and a collaborative spirit.
Andy had a great time sitting down with Kathleen and really hopes that you enjoy the conversation. If you do, then he would appreciate it if you didn’t keep it to yourself! He would love it if you were to share it with a few good friends and industry colleagues who might also enjoy it! He would also appreciate it if you were to leave a top review wherever you listen to the show because that really helps the show out! Lastly, don’t forget to follow The Wedding Biz on Instagram and subscribe to the podcast so that you never miss a new episode when it drops!
Have you heard about Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey on The Wedding Biz Network? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don't forget about Sean Low's podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.
 
SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ
Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!
 
Time Stamps
[0:03] - Andy shares how he has found renewed passion in podcasting and revitalized his music business.
[1:46] - Today’s guest is Kathleen Deery of Kathleen Deery Design and Paula LeDuc!
[2:58] - Kathleen reveals how her lifelong love for flowers, nurtured by her mother, led to her successful design company.

[5:09] - Hear how Kathleen's role as a tastemaker and co-owner revitalizes Paula LeDuc.

[7:16] - Kathleen emphasizes the importance of relationships in event planning, focusing on personalized, theatrical experiences.

[10:11] - Kathleen thrives on building heartfelt connections with clients, adding value to event planning experiences.

[12:51] - Hear Kathleen reminisce about a Bridgerton-themed wedding, showcasing meticulous details and personalized touches for 350 guests.

[15:56] - Kathleen touches further upon the dramatic touches of the event.
[18:25] - Listen as Kathleen shares an anecdote about resourcefulness in event planning, highlighting the importance of a reliable team.

[20:22] - Kathleen recounts a fabric mishap at a wedding, saved by the timely intervention of a friend in the tenting business.

[22:36] - Despite having initial doubts, Kathleen embraces the opportunity for growth and learning in her new role.

[24:50] - Kathleen relishes her decision despite challenges, including balancing responsibilities and missing hands-on floral work.

[27:40] - What does success mean to Kathleen?

[28:58] - Andy reveals where Kathleen can be found online.

Andy is so pleased to be bringing Jacin Fitzgerald of Jacin Fitzgerald Events onto The Wedding Biz this week! Join Andy as he and Jacin discuss the world of event planning and hospitality, with Jacin sharing her journey from working in corporate events to launching her own business in 2009. Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, Jacin developed a strong work ethic and a passion for hospitality, and she emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and making clients feel welcomed and valued.
The conversation also involves Jacin's approach to event planning, which prioritizes getting to know clients on a personal level. From handling unexpected challenges like sprinkler mishaps at events to orchestrating last-minute Super Bowl parties on yachts, Jacin shares how she navigates the complexities of destination weddings and high-profile events with grace and adaptability.
Andy's and Jacin's discussion also touches on pricing philosophy, marketing strategies, the transformative power of meditation in maintaining mental well-being amidst the demands of the industry, and more! Listen in to discover how Jacin's blend of meticulous planning and “unreasonable hospitality” sets her events apart and ensures unforgettable experiences for her clients.
If you enjoy this episode, then Andy asks that you not keep it to yourself! He would really appreciate it if you were to share it with a few good friends and industry colleagues who might also enjoy it! He would also appreciate it if you were to leave a top review wherever you listen to the show because that really helps the show out! Lastly, don’t forget to follow The Wedding Biz on Instagram and subscribe to the podcast so that you never miss a new episode when it drops!
 
Have you heard about Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey on The Wedding Biz Network? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don't forget about Sean Low's podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.
 
SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ
Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!
 
Time Stamps
[0:03] - Andy reveals today’s guest to be Jacin Fitzgerald and reflects on having invested in his band's growth by treating them to dinner and a concert.
[2:41] - Jacin emphasizes the importance of maintaining calm energy as event planners facing various challenges.
[4:27] - Jacin shares a funny anecdote from a chaotic wedding event, reflecting on her entrepreneurial family background.
[6:33] - Jacin highlights her strong work ethic, sharing experiences of teamwork and inclusivity from her upbringing.
[8:19] - How did Jacin get involved in the wedding business?
[9:21] - Jacin explored various jobs, including event planning, through temporary work, ultimately founding her own wedding planning business.
[12:07] - Jacin's team focuses on two weddings annually, prioritizing hospitality and accessibility while also setting boundaries.
[13:57] - Learn how Jacin prioritizes understanding clients' preferences to create events where they feel at home.
[15:36] - Jacin reveals how she adapted to clients' true preferences, shifting to meaningful simplicity.
[18:05] - Jacin's team smoothly turns mishaps into memorable experiences, like a spontaneous water party.
[19:59] - Hear how Jacin's team swiftly relocated an event to avoid clashes,
[22:14] - Engage revolutionized Jacin's networking, fostering a global community for idea-sharing and support.
[24:07] - Jacin discusses her pricing philosophy.
[26:50] - Social media is not Jacin's forte, as she prefers authentic sharing and traditional networking for reputation building.
[29:56] - We learn that Jacin values resilience and meditation, learning to balance wor

Tune in as Andy interviews Harold James, a unique French hair and makeup artist in that he prioritizes the individual beauty and personality of each and every one of his clients. Harold is a pretty prolific makeup artist, having done work for celebrities such as Bella Hadid, Amber Valetta, Angelina Jolie, Karlie Kloss, Susan Sarandon, and Kendall Jenner. He has also contributed to a number of top publications like Vogue Italia, Vanity Fair Italy, Elle Italia, Harper’s BAZAAR, Cosmopolitan, as well as many others.
When Harold was a young boy, he would often advise family members such as cousins and sisters what they should do with their hair, and it eventually got to the point at which they would approach him for recommendations! Although he didn’t really become interested in beauty magazines until he was well into his teens, he loved watching his mother do her hair and makeup. He also didn’t immediately go into a beauty profession, initially going into finance, but he was inspired to go into beauty because of a friend whom he loved to watch do it as a hobby.
He also talks about how he finds a balance between being forward with current fashion and current trends while also being aware of what is age appropriate and what is appropriate for a specific event that a client might be attending. He stresses how important that it is that, no matter what, his clients feel beautiful and confident. He also deals with a very wide range of different personalities amongst his clientele which, as he shares, is the most challenging aspect of his job but is also something that he finds exciting.
In closing, Harold is gracious enough to offer advice to anyone who might be up and coming in a similar line of work and wants to take their work to the next level, encouraging people to find their own version of perfection. He also defines success, in so far as what it means to him, saying that he feels that he has been successful when he feels happy and satisfied with his work.
Andy is a big admirer of Harold and his work and had a great time chatting with him. Be sure to check Harold out online using one of the resources mentioned, and you are also encouraged to share this episode with friends and/or colleagues who might enjoy it! A review would also be very much appreciated, as would tuning in next time on The Wedding Biz!
Have you heard about Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey on The Wedding Biz Network? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don't forget about Sean Low's podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.
 
SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ
Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!
 
Time Stamps
[00:29] – Today’s episode is a revisit of Andy’s interview with Harold James.
[01:23] - Harold reveals what aspirations that he had as a child that led to his eventual work in hair and makeup.
[03:06] - Harold details the funny story around the first time that he served a client in the beauty industry.
[06:25] - Harold discusses how he was initially working in fashion but not hair and makeup.
[08:05] – Harold explains why doing makeup in France is very different from doing makeup in the United States.
[10:01] - Harold's journey from LA to Japan led to global beauty exploration and cultural understanding.
[12:07] - Harold's passion spans makeup, hair, vintage movies, fashion exhibits, and empowering women through photography.
[14:00] - Harold comments on the composition and texture aspects of his work.
[17:24] - Harold explains how he balances being fashion forward but also being age appropriate and event appropriate.
[19:01] - We hear how Harold applies nearly the same beauty principles with his cel

Andy is so happy to welcome Akeshi Akinseye to The Wedding Biz this week! Akeshi is a luxury wedding planner and designer based in Chicago. Running Kesh Events, Akeshi specializes in creating extraordinary celebrations all around the world. She is not only a luxury wedding planner and event designer but also an international speaker, author, and business coach, and she joins Andy for this episode to discuss how she came into the business, from where she finds inspiration, and how to open oneself up creatively.
Listen in to hear Akeshi also discuss current trends in the industry, how she goes about building an event team, how she has managed to garner such a big social media following, how she draws inspiration from her upbringing in the hospitality industry and her transition into event planning.
Discover how Akeshi found her calling in event planning, shifting from a career path in psychology to creating unforgettable experiences for her clients. She delves into her creative process, highlighting the importance of nature and open-mindedness in sparking fresh ideas. while also discussing the significance of culturally immersive entertainment.
Akeshi also shares her passion for celebrating life's moments beyond weddings through The Art of Celebrating, a platform that inspires people to host stylish and elegant gatherings, from intimate dinners to lavish picnics. Join Andy as he and Akeshi explore the world of event planning and uncover the beauty of celebration in all its forms!
If you enjoy the episode, please don’t keep it to yourself! Andy would really appreciate it if you were to share it with a few good friends and industry colleagues who might also enjoy it! He would also appreciate it if you were to leave a top review wherever you listen to the show because that really helps the show out! Lastly, don’t forget to follow The Wedding Biz on Instagram and subscribe to the podcast so that you never miss a new episode when it drops!
 
Have you heard about Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey on The Wedding Biz Network? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don't forget about Sean Low's podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.
 
SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ
Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!
 
Time Stamps
[0:24] - Today’s guest is Akeshi Akinseye of Kesh Events!
[1:37] - Akeshi shares how her upbringing in hospitality led me from psychology to event planning and design.
[4:08] - Andy reflects on having mediated a tense conversation between a bride and her mother, offering insightful advice.
[5:30] - Akeshi emphasizes the importance of balancing support for clients without taking sides in conflicts.
[7:21] - Akeshi stresses the importance of timing when delivering feedback, especially during sensitive moments like dress fittings.
[8:21] - From where does Akeshi find inspiration?
[10:10] - Akeshi further elaborates, revealing that she finds inspiration in everyday walks, turning photos into collages and drawing from unexpected sources.
[13:31] - Slowing down and allowing oneself to reset is crucial for creativity and avoiding forced designs.
[15:03] - Akeshi argues that honoring event locations through local culture, music, and personalized elements makes them meaningful and memorable.
[18:00] - Creating seamless transitions and immersive experiences in events ensures a memorable journey for guests.
[20:13] - Andy highlights his experience in the wedding and event industry, focusing on creating world-class entertainment.
[21:31] - Akeshi argues for the importance of forming the right team.
[23:16] - Akeshi prioritizes authenticity over aesthetics on social media, focusing