Wine and Dine Me

Reagan Prechter, Owner of Reagan Events

The Wine and Dine Me podcast is brought to you by Reagan Prechter, owner of Reagan Events, a luxury event planning and design firm based in Charleston, South Carolina. With more than 15 years of experience executing events all over the world, she’s seen a thing or two. Join Reagan weekly for her unfiltered, no-rules-attached commentary where she dives into the stories behind exceptional hospitality, the business strategies that drive success, and life’s most unforgettable moments. This podcast is unapologetically not for the basic. Follow us on instagram @reaganevents reaganevents.com

  1. HACE 1 DÍA

    Discretion, Directness, and High-Stakes Events with Laura Somma

    In this episode of The Wine and Dine Me Podcast, Reagan sits down with her Italy-based partner, Laura Somma, to talk about what “high-touch” really looks like when the guest list includes celebrities, royals, and families who do not tolerate chaos. They start with the practical magic of a cross-time-zone partnership, then trace Laura’s path from studying German literature to building a career defined by precision, discretion, and calm execution. Laura shares the behind-the-scenes stories that shaped her standards, including producing a paparazzi-proof private island birthday for Naomi Campbell in Positano and how a chance conversation in Doha led to working inside the orbit of the royal family of Qatar. Along the way, she makes a point planners need to hear: the most powerful thing you can bring into a room full of “yes people” is a steady voice that tells the truth. They also dig into what sophisticated clients actually crave when they can already access everything: authenticity, simplicity, and experiences rooted in place. Laura explains why she builds a “bridge” in design across cultures, why a local performance is often the most unforgettable anchor of a destination celebration, and how The Wedding Prive was created to solve the real complexity of multi-destination weddings with senior planners leading each chapter. In this episode, we cover: Why a US + Italy planning partnership eliminates lag, follow-ups, and lost daysHow German literature (and German work habits) shaped Laura’s planning brainThe first wedding she ever produced, and why she asked two questions firstWhat discretion looks like when paparazzi are actively trying to get inThe real reason top-tier clients choose “simple” food and simple momentsHow to read a culture fast (and why you should stop relying on other people’s opinions)Laura’s non-negotiable for guest experience: a performance that belongs to the placeWhat The Wedding Prive is, and why multi-destination weddings are the next frontierLaura’s closing advice to planners: trust your gut and lead the conversation Key moments (timestamps) 00:52 Laura’s background and why Reagan trusts her as an Italy partner04:24 German literature, Goethe, and the pivot into events10:35 Her first wedding came from a corporate guest, and she never “sold” planning14:55 The private island birthday story and what discretion actually requires20:07 The Doha connection that opened the door to royal work29:36 How Laura learns a new culture: sit, watch, listen, decide for yourself33:58 Her guest-experience non-negotiable: local performance over predictable extras36:24 The Wedding Prive and the operational reality of multi-destination weddings48:52 Final advice: trust your gut, stop people-pleasing, lead the roomConnect with Laura: Instagram: @theweddingprive, @ellesseventsEmail: info@lsevents.netWebsite: The Wedding PriveListen & Follow Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, updates, and expert advice.Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes moments, trending ideas, and so much more.Tune in to our Wine and Dine Me Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, where we explore all things weddings, life, and business.

    53 min

  2. 3 FEB

    Own Your Power: Authority, Calm, and the Systems That Let You Lead at the Highest Level with Lynn Easton

    In this episode of The Wine and Dine Me Podcast, Reagan sits down with Lynn Easton, founder of Easton Events, for a candid conversation about what actually separates “pretty” from powerful in high-stakes event work. Lynn shares how she built a brand people recognize before they even read the caption, why language is one of a planner’s most underrated tools, and the real reason budgets must get handled early (not “once we see what things cost”). They also get into the systems behind calm execution, including the story that led Lynn to build her timeline and budget infrastructure and eventually turn it into eventPERCH.  In this episode, we cover: Why “ma’am” and “sir” can shrink your authority when you’re the one responsible for the callBranding as behavior, not visuals: what makes a brand feel consistent in the room and in the inboxThe budgeting conversation planners avoid, and why avoiding it makes you the villain laterWhat Instagram is actually good for (and what it should never replace)The moment a single timeline mistake changed how Lynn built her systems foreverWhy Lynn chose to share her proprietary workflow with the industry through eventPERCH A real take on growth: more people, better structure, and protecting the work from burnoutAbout Lynn Easton:Lynn is the founder of Easton Events and Easton Education, known for producing sophisticated, high-touch celebrations with serious operational discipline behind the scenes.Connect with Lynn: Easton Events on Instagram: @eastonevents Easton Education on Instagram: @eastoneducation eventPERCH: eventPERCH (event planning software built from Easton’s internal systems) Listen & Follow Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, updates, and expert advice.Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes moments, trending ideas, and so much more.Tune in to our Wine and Dine Me Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, where we explore all things weddings, life, and business.

    1 h y 6 min

  3. 23 ENE

    Clear Is Kind: Budgets, Boundaries, and Better Planning with Calder Clark

    In this episode of The Wine and Dine Me Podcast, Reagan sits down with Calder Clark for a candid conversation about what it really takes to produce beautiful events without losing the plot. This one is equal parts creative process and hard-earned perspective. The kind you only get after years of doing the work, living through the curveballs, and learning when to hold the line.Calder shares how she thinks about value, how she navigates client expectations (especially when the vision is larger than the budget), and why the best planners are the ones who can protect the experience while staying calm and direct. They also dig into what fuels Calder’s design process, how she stays inspired without living on social media, and why getting copied is not the crisis people make it out to be.It’s smart, grounded, and full of the kind of real-world advice that helps you refine how you sell, design, communicate, and lead.In this episode, we cover: Why “value” is the real conversation, not priceHow to handle the expectation gap when budgets don’t match the visionWhy you need the bill payer involved early (and how it changes everything)The difference between planning, designing, and producing - and why clients confuse itBoundaries that still feel high-touch and responsiveHow Calder stays inspired without chasing the scrollWhat her actual design process looks like (sources, references, and how she builds a point of view)Why being copied is not the threat people think it isWhen “pretty” becomes standard, and how to keep your work intentionalThe mindset shift that makes you easier to work with - and better at the jobGuest SpotlightCalder Clark is a Charleston-based planner and designer known for her editorial eye, confident point of view, and ability to balance beauty with real-world execution. She brings a rare combination of creative clarity and business candor - the kind that elevates the final product and protects the client experience at every step.Listen & Follow Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, updates, and expert advice.Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes moments, trending ideas, and so much more.Tune in to our Wine and Dine Me Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, where we explore all things weddings, life, and business.

    1 h y 4 min

  4. 29/12/2025

    All In or Nothing: The Reality of Scaling a Creative Business with Jessica Connolly of Social Supply Design

    In this episode of The Wine and Dine Me Podcast, Reagan sits down with Jessica Connolly, co-founder and creative director of Social Supply Design, for a wide-ranging conversation on what it actually takes to build meaningful experiences at scale. Jessica shares her unconventional path from government work to wedding planning to running a multimillion-dollar experiential design and build studio. Together, Reagan and Jessica unpack why design without function is just decoration, how emotion and execution must work together, and what happens when creatives stop designing for Instagram and start designing for people. This conversation goes deep into the realities of entrepreneurship, scaling a labor-intensive business, hiring with intention, and navigating creativity, leadership, and ADHD in a high-pressure industry. It’s honest, grounded, and filled with insight for anyone building something that matters. In this episode, we cover: Why design without function fails the guest experienceThe difference between decoration and design that performsTaking real risks and going all in on your businessHow divorce, alignment, and life shifts can clarify your workScaling a creative business when every project is a one-offBringing production in-house to protect quality and executionDesigning spaces around human behavior and emotional flowHiring for humility, hunger, and honestyWhy trends fade but nostalgia and intention endureWhat’s overdone in event design and what’s being overlookedGuest SpotlightJessica Connolly is the co-founder and creative director of Social Supply Design, an experiential design and production studio known for immersive, interior-grade builds for events, brands, and venues nationwide. Her work sits at the intersection of architecture, emotional storytelling, and execution at scale.Connect with JessicaInstagram: @socialsupplydesignWebsite: socialsupplydesign.comListen & Follow Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, updates, and expert advice.Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes moments, trending ideas, and so much more.Tune in to our Wine and Dine Me Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, where we explore all things weddings, life, and business.

    1 h y 1 min

  5. 12/12/2025

    The Future of Weddings: Trends, Truth, and Transparency with Sarah Schreiber

    There’s a shift happening in weddings today — one grounded in clarity, meaning, and a more discerning approach to design, storytelling, and guest experience. In this episode, Reagan sits down with Sarah Schreiber, former Associate Editorial Director of Brides and Martha Stewart Weddings, to explore the evolving expectations of modern couples and the direction our industry is undeniably moving toward. With over a decade shaping the editorial lens of two of the most influential wedding publications, Sarah brings an invaluable perspective on trend forecasting, the rise of authenticity, the role of social content, and the realities of pricing in a culture that often misunderstands the scale of a celebration. Today, she consults with luxury creatives on brand positioning, website curation, copy, and digital strategy — work informed by thousands of weddings she has reviewed, refined, and uplifted.Together, we explore: Why the Pantone Color of the Year sparked industry-wide debateHow trends actually emerge in today’s landscapeThe rise of deconstructed timelines and guest-first designWhat couples want to see from vendors before they ever inquireThe declining influence of traditional wedding publicationsThe importance of transparency in pricing and valueHow authenticity shapes both online presence and event designSarah’s unexpected career pivot and what reinvention can look likeThis conversation is honest, grounded, and deeply relevant for anyone navigating weddings at a high level — whether as a planner, designer, photographer, or a couple seeking a celebration rooted in intention and meaning. Connect with Sarah: Instagram: @sar_schreiber TikTok: @sar_schreiberWant more behind-the-scenes stories, trends, and inspiration? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, updates, and expert advice.Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes moments, trending ideas, and so much more.Tune in to our Wine and Dine Me Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, where we explore all things weddings, life, and business.

    47 min

  6. 09/10/2025

    When Grace Meets Grit: A Conversation on Resilience and Renewal

    This week, I sat down with my dear friend and fellow creative, Candice Lorraine Soffner — a woman whose career can only be described as a smorgasbord of creative brilliance. From teaching first grade to designing interiors, producing large-scale events, and now leading her own company, Candice Lorraine LLC, Candice has done it all with an ease and authenticity that’s rare in our industry.We talked about the real stuff — resilience, burnout, bravery, and the decision to choose yourself even when it feels terrifying. Our conversation moved between laughter and truth-telling — from stories of wrangling groomsmen like first graders to the lessons that come from divorce, reinvention, and rebuilding. What I love most about Candice is her honesty. She reminds us that resilience isn’t a trait you’re born with — it’s something you earn by standing back up.This episode is for anyone who’s ever wondered if it’s time to start over, or if saying “yes” to something new might just lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.What You’ll Hear in This Episode: How Candice’s path from teaching to event production shaped her approach to leadershipThe importance of treating people with kindness — even when the pressure is highWhy resilience is the greatest strength in creative industriesThe courage it takes to leave a stable path in pursuit of alignmentHow honesty and integrity always reveal true characterThe freedom that comes from saying yes to the projects that truly excite youWhy negative space — in life and design — mattersWant more behind-the-scenes stories, trends, and inspiration? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, updates, and expert advice.Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes moments, trending ideas, and so much more.Tune in to our Wine and Dine Me Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, where we explore all things weddings, life, and business.

    49 min

  7. 03/10/2025

    Demystifying Percentage Pricing: A Planner’s Perspective

    Percentage-based pricing can feel intimidating — for planners making the switch from flat fees and for couples trying to understand what it really means for their budget. In this episode, Reagan breaks it down with clarity and candor.She shares why percentage pricing has always been part of her business model, why it protects both clients and planners, and how it accounts for the unexpected complexities that inevitably arise during the planning process.From real-world comparisons (think builders, painters, and mechanics) to insights on scope, upgrades, and trust, Reagan tackles the most common fears head-on: Does it incentivize planners to overspend?Does it penalize couples with sophisticated taste?When does a flat fee actually stem from the same math?This is an essential listen for anyone navigating planner fees — whether you’re a couple questioning what model makes sense for your wedding, or a planner looking to confidently stand by your value.What you’ll hear in this episode: Why percentage-based pricing has long been a standard in event planning.The three factors that most influence a planner’s percentage.How percentage protects against scope creep and unforeseen work.Why comparisons to builders, painters, and mechanics matter.The myth of being “penalized” for expensive taste.How honesty, transparency, and trust shape the client–planner relationship.Want more behind-the-scenes stories, trends, and inspiration? Subscribe to our newsletter⁠ for inspiration, updates, and expert advice.Follow us on⁠ Instagram⁠ and⁠ TikTok⁠ for behind-the-scenes moments, trending ideas, and so much more.Tune in to our Wine and Dine Me Podcast on⁠ Apple Podcasts⁠ and⁠ Spotify⁠, where we explore all things weddings, life, and business.

    16 min

  8. 26/09/2025

    Warmth Over Wealth: Bronson van Wyck on the True Meaning of Hospitality

    Bronson van Wyck has been called the wizard of hospitality — a visionary whose events have redefined what it means to gather. From his roots on a farm in Arkansas to creating some of the most memorable celebrations across the globe, Bronson’s story is one of imagination, intention, and generosity.In this episode, we talk about the lessons he learned from his Southern upbringing, his time at the State Department in Paris, and the unforgettable moments he’s orchestrated for guests worldwide. Bronson shares why true welcome is about warmth, not wealth, the importance of surprise and pacing at any event, and why hospitality is ultimately about making people feel safe, seen, and delighted.If you’ve ever wondered how the world’s best hosts create magic — or how small, thoughtful details can change the entire atmosphere of a party — this conversation is for you.What you’ll hear in this episode: How Bronson’s childhood shaped his understanding of hospitalityThe surprising lessons he learned working under Ambassador Pamela HarrimanWhy pacing and surprise are essential to unforgettable partiesThe principle of “warmth over wealth” and what it means for hosts and guests alikeHow he uses his talent to give back through meaningful charitable workConnect with Bronson van Wyck Website: Van Wyck & Van Wyck and Workshop WorldwideInstagram: @bronsonvanwyck LinkedIn: Bronson van Wyck  Want more behind-the-scenes stories, trends, and inspiration? Subscribe to our newsletter⁠ for inspiration, updates, and expert advice.Follow us on⁠ Instagram⁠ and⁠ TikTok⁠ for behind-the-scenes moments, trending ideas, and so much more.Tune in to our Wine and Dine Me Podcast on⁠ Apple Podcasts⁠ and⁠ Spotify⁠, where we explore all things weddings, life, and business.

    28 min
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Acerca de

The Wine and Dine Me podcast is brought to you by Reagan Prechter, owner of Reagan Events, a luxury event planning and design firm based in Charleston, South Carolina. With more than 15 years of experience executing events all over the world, she’s seen a thing or two. Join Reagan weekly for her unfiltered, no-rules-attached commentary where she dives into the stories behind exceptional hospitality, the business strategies that drive success, and life’s most unforgettable moments. This podcast is unapologetically not for the basic. Follow us on instagram @reaganevents reaganevents.com

Información

  • Creador
    Reagan Prechter, Owner of Reagan Events
  • Años de actividad
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodios
    66
  • Clasificación
    Explícito
  • Copyright
    © Reagan Prechter, Owner of Reagan Events
  • Mostrar sitio web
    Wine and Dine Me

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