The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business

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

Andy Kushner offers an inside look behind-the-scenes of the wedding and event world for both industry experts and bridal couples by featuring in-depth and transformative conversations with event industry icons. The Wedding Biz is also the only global platform of its kind to serve the business development needs of wedding and events professionals. As the host, Andy interviews the most prolific thought leaders and talent, taking you behind the curtain and revealing their personality, character, passions, and secrets to their success. Andy’s powerful, yet casual and comfortable interview style gives you access to the authentic story each of these incredible industry leaders has to share. The Wedding Biz podcast is your opportunity to really get to know the amazing personalities that endlessly elevate the world of weddings and special events.

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    525 PRESTON BAILEY: A $600M Wedding, AI, and Embracing Creativity

    Andy is excited to have floral and event designer Preston Bailey, a true icon in the industry, back once again on the show! Tune in as he shares some fascinating insights into his work, including his involvement in one of the most extravagant weddings ever held for the Ambani family in Mumbai! With a rumored price tag of $600 million, the event pushed the boundaries of design, and Preston was at the heart of it all. He reveals how he worked on over 70 monumental floral animal sculptures, crafted from Indian flowers, which became some of the most talked-about aspects of the wedding! However, the conversation goes beyond the luxury of this massive event, as Preston also opens up about his morning routine, the daily practices that fuel his creativity (including his use of morning pages and meditation) and how these routines have helped shape his work and personal growth. He also discusses the role of AI in his creative process and how it fits into his ever-evolving approach to design. Andy, as always, had such a great time taking time to sit down with Preston and have another enlightening conversation with him, and he hopes that you enjoy this conversation. If so, please don't keep it to yourself! If you can think of at least three good friends who might really benefit from and enjoy this conversation with Preston, be sure to share it with them! Andy would also be appreciative if you were to subscribe to the podcast if you aren't already and to leave a top review wherever you listen, especially since it really helps the show and helps people find it! Also, did you know that Preston has his own podcast, Stop and Smell the Roses, 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 [0:16] – Andy reveals that today's guest is returning guest Preston Bailey! [1:22] - Preston discusses having been involved in a life-changing event, collaborating with Mrs. Ambani, who was incredibly creative and hands-on. [2:51] - The wedding design focused on India’s culture, featuring large animals and an Instagram-worthy display. [5:16] - Even though there was a tight deadline, working in India allowed for swift execution with skilled local teams. [8:47] - Preston discusses how his bold designs came to life without many changes. [10:33] - Preston remains open to new challenges, embracing whatever the universe offers him creatively. [11:24] - Andy expresses admiration for Rick Rubin’s philosophy of receiving opportunities by staying present and open to creativity. [12:40] - Preston reflects on how being open to new opportunities has led to unexpected successes throughout his career. [14:29] - Preston finds reinvention exciting, believing that creativity keeps him alive. [16:59] - Preston describes his morning routine. [19:04] - Hear how getting fired taught Preston to accept mistakes, be kinder to himself, and embrace setbacks. [21:34] - When events are canceled, Preston believes that returning money and expressing empathy builds long-lasting client relationships. [23:57] - Preston does experience burnout but finds theater and galleries help him recharge, while AI has pros and cons in design. [25:40] - Andy’s brother uses AI for various tasks, believing that it is an enormous technology with vast potential. [26:58] - Preston highlights embracing AI in business, using it to improve his writing and stay competitive. [28:46] - Andy shares where Preston can be found online.   RESOURCES Preston's Previous Guest Spots on The Wedding Biz Rick Rubin - The Creative Act: A Way of Being   Find Preston: Preston's Website Preston’s Instagram Page Preston’s Facebook Page Preston's Pinterest Page Stop and Smell the Roses Podcast   Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz Network The Music Makers   Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.   Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment.

    29 min

  2. FEB 3

    524 LARRY WALSHE: An Evolving Journey to Artistic Triumphs in Event Design

    Andy welcomes listeners back to the show for this episode in which he sits down with Larry Walshe, founder and CEO of Larry Walshe Studios, a world-renowned floral and event designer with studios in London, Lake Como, and New York City! Larry's impressive portfolio includes collaborations with top-tier names like Rihanna, Adele, Benedict Cumberbatch, and even royal households. He is truly a trailblazer in the industry, known especially for his 100% plastic-free luxury floral service, Bloom, and his Elite Furniture Hire venture! Listen as Larry discusses his creative journey, beginning with his artistic upbringing, an unexpected career shift after an accident, and how he eventually carved out his niche in the events industry. He shares some insights into the challenges of balancing creativity with running a successful business, stressing the importance of staying true to his artistic vision while ensuring that each event delivers a seamless experience. Larry also opens up about his process, from sketching ideas in the moment to interpreting clients' needs into breathtaking designs. He touches upon the essential role of a dedicated team, managing the stress of high-pressure events, and how overcoming challenges has shaped his career. He even touches on his personal passions outside of the floral world, like photography, which helped him cope during difficult times. Andy had such a great time chatting with Larry and hopes that you enjoy listening to the conversation! If so, then please don’t keep it to yourself! Andy asks that you please share it with at least three colleagues you know who would benefit from hearing this episode, and be sure to also leave a top review wherever you listen because that really helps Andy and the show out!   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 [0:29] - We learn that today’s guest is Larry Walshe of Larry Walshe Studios! [1:40] - Larry's artistic background and a career shift led him to create his own vision for events. [3:55] - Andy reflects on having started his band business in 1990, driven by a desire for creative expression. [5:33] - Hear how Larry's frustration with industry standards and a gap in the UK market led to a new vision. [8:21] - Larry quit his job with only a small amount of money to start a business when he realized that his ideas could be his own. [11:42] - Larry’s first wedding project gave him valuable experience, which he then leveraged to build his business. [15:09] - Larry combines practicality with design and listens closely to clients and their preferences. [18:32] - A disconnect between design and words led Larry to quickly adapt and sketch a new concept. [20:52] - How does Larry make use of his team? [23:25] - Larry strives to balance creativity and logistics while constantly pushing for something unique. [25:51] - Larry learned early that balancing creativity with business viability is incredibly important, especially after COVID. [28:34] - We learn that Larry charges for design proposals, uses inspiration from everyday life, and constantly saves ideas. [31:37] - Larry admits that he doesn’t have a great balance between his work life and personal life but loves what he does. [33:28] - We learn that Larry loves photography and that buying a camera during COVID was beneficial to his mental health. [36:04] - How would Larry define success? [37:04] - Reflecting on unique projects like wrapping a jet in Santa style reminds Larry of his unusual work. [39:34] - Andy reveals where Larry can be found online.   RESOURCES Find Larry: Larry’s Website Larry’s Retail Site Larry’s Instagram Page Larry’s Facebook Page Elite Furniture Hire - Website Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz Network The Music Makers   Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.   Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment.

    40 min

  3. JAN 20

    523 JOSH SPIEGEL: Collaborations, Company Culture, & How True Listening Can Transform Design Plans

    Join Andy this week as he enthusiastically welcomes returning guest Josh Spiegel, the visionary founder and Chief Creative Officer of Birch Event Design, to catch up on the evolution of his company since they last spoke four years ago in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Listen as Josh opens up about the challenges and victories of being in the luxury event space, including his team’s expansion, collaborations, and the creative strides that they have made. He and Andy discuss the importance of being adaptable in the post-pandemic world and how these elements have reshaped both personal and professional landscapes, and Josh shares some insights into his company's culture and how maintaining a harmonious team dynamic is incredibly important for maintaining their innovative edge and staying relevant. From scaling the business to embracing partnerships with other industry leaders, Josh touches upon the cornerstones of Birch Event Design's philosophy. He and Andy also discuss how the right cultural fit can make or break a company and why sometimes, letting go of even the most talented individuals is necessary for the greater good. As they explore the art of crafting unforgettable events, Josh emphasizes some of the unique and challenging projects that Birch has taken on, including a contemporary art gala that pushed the boundaries of traditional wedding design. This interview is filled with inspiring anecdotes, valuable lessons, and a look into what makes Josh's approach to event design so distinct and impactful, and Andy really hopes that you enjoy this engaging conversation! If so, then he urges you to please not keep it to yourself. Share it with at least three colleagues you know who would benefit from hearing this episode, and be sure to also leave a top review wherever you listen because that really helps Andy and the show out!   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 reflects on how his annual winter break in Maui recharges him through its magical atmosphere and familiar spots. [1:00] - We learn that this episode is with returning guest Josh Spiegel of Birch Event Design! [3:29] - Josh reflects on 2024's success in business scaling, acquisitions, and expansion into corporate events. [6:10] - Josh is excited about partnering with another design company for a mega wedding. [9:26] - Checking egos to collaborate and create unique, enjoyable events with competitors is very important. [11:20] - Listen as Josh describes an upcoming wedding designed as a contemporary art gala! [14:54] - Listening carefully is necessary for translating client requests into meaningful experiences. [17:08] - Business challenges persist, but Josh now has a stronger team and handles setbacks calmly. [20:18] - Josh values company culture and recognizes the need to remove toxic personalities in order to grow. [22:42] - Success requires cultural fit, constant work, and no clear separation between work and life. [25:22] - Josh explains that the lifestyle of his business, even when it may look glamorous, requires constant availability. [26:17] - Hear how Josh finds moments throughout the day, no matter how small, to recharge and stay present. [29:04] - Andy reveals where Birch Event Design can be found online.   RESOURCES The Wedding Biz - 330: JOSH SPIEGEL/Birch Event Design – Using Social Media to Create Business During the Pandemic Find Josh: Birch Event Design - Website Birch Event Design - Instagram Page Birch Event Design - Facebook Page Birch Event Design - TikTok Page   Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz Network The Music Makers   Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.   Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment.

    29 min

  4. JAN 6

    522 ABI MATESUN: Break Limiting Thought Patterns and Unlock Your Full Creative Potential

    Andy is excited to welcome back to the show Abi Matesun of Malekfoto Weddings and Malekfoto Films! Abi is a trailblazing Nigerian-American filmmaker and creative visionary with impressive accolades that include two Emmy Awards, two Telly Awards, and the People of African Descent Award. Abi has made waves in both the wedding industry and the broader creative space, and his Netflix series Made by Design celebrates the artistry of African architects and designers, while his transformative Creative Mind Shift Masterclass helps entrepreneurs unlock their full potential! Abi joins Andy in this episode to discuss his philosophy behind the Creative Mind Shift, explaining how reframing limiting beliefs and embracing challenges can elevate not only personal growth but also client experiences. He shares actionable insights into emotional intelligence and active listening, skills that are truly critical in an age of rapid innovation and AI integration. Abi’s mantra is that failure is not an identity but a necessary step toward success, and he emphasizes the importance of “failing forward” and learning from setbacks, offering a fresh perspective on resilience. The conversation also explores practical strategies for reprogramming the mind, from envisioning success to taking advantage of subconscious habits in order to maintain growth. Andy and Abi also share personal stories of overcoming mental blocks, such as Andy’s journey to learning guitar in his 40s, showing how mindset shifts can lead to profound transformation! Andy had such a great time talking with Abi and hopes that you enjoy this conversation! If so, then please don’t keep it to yourself. Andy asks that you please share it with at least three colleagues you know who would benefit from hearing this episode. Also, be sure to leave a top review wherever you listen because that really helps Andy and the show out!   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 [0:40] - We learn that the guest of this episode is returning guest Abi Matesun! [2:04] - Abi explains that his Creative Mind Shift Masterclass helps entrepreneurs overcome limiting thought patterns to unlock creativity. [4:05] - Addressing internal fears and thought patterns helps entrepreneurs embrace opportunities, especially with the rise of AI. [6:32] - Andy discusses how obstacles, not failures, provide opportunities for learning and growth, as demonstrated in the book The Obstacle Is the Way. [7:41] - Accepting failure as an event, not an identity, is so important for personal and professional success. [10:14] - Starting new endeavors, like Andy learning guitar, requires overcoming mental blocks and embracing gradual progress. [12:06] - Hear how training the subconscious to align with desired outcomes leads to significant growth over time. [14:25] - Andy describes learning to treat failure as an opportunity for growth through consistent practice over decades. [17:17] - Abi shares how visualizing success daily led to his team winning an Emmy for their project! [20:46] - Abi highlights the importance of tapping into the subconscious to access unseen opportunities. [21:53] - Anticipating and preparing for future needs, like Steve Jobs did, helps drive innovation. [24:34] - Andy reveals where Abi can be found online.   RESOURCES Abi's Previous Guest Spots on The Wedding Biz Ryan Holiday – The Obstacle Is the Way   Find Abi: Malekfoto Weddings - Website Malekfoto Weddings - Facebook Page Malekfoto Weddings - Instagram Page Malekfoto Weddings - YouTube Channel Malekfoto Films - Website Made by Design Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz Network The Music Makers   Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.   Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment.

    25 min

  5. 12/16/2024

    521 REVISIT SARAH WINWARD: A Master Floral Designer’s Process and from Creativity Blooms Beauty

    Andy welcomes you to revisit his November 2022 interview with Sarah Winward! Sarah is based out of Salt Lake City and is a destination wedding florist who creates flower arrangements that are inspired by the changing of seasons in nature. Believing that flowers should feel natural in the environment in which they are going to be viewed, Still, she also finds many of her materials in the immediate area where the event will be held. Sarah primarily does flowers for events but also works on installations for private and commercial clients. She also offers various workshops and is a master of her craft! Sarah dives into various topics such as what her childhood was like and what her biggest hobbies were as a child, how an interest in weddings and events came about for her, what the process frequently looks like between her and her clients, what her biggest challenge often is and how she overcomes it, how she has managed to become so popular on social media, what her morning routine and evening routine look like, her love for nature, and so much more! Andy really appreciates Sarah's time and had a great time interviewing her. He hopes that you enjoy listening to it and also encourages you to check out her online courses available for purchase from If I Made. He would love it if you were to share this episode with a few people you know who might also enjoy it and would also appreciate it if you were to subscribe to the podcast if you aren't already so that you never miss a new episode! Be sure also to leave a top review wherever you listen because that really helps out the show and helps people find it!   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 [0:17] – We learn that today's episode is a revisit of Andy’s conversation with Sarah Winward. [1:55] – What were Sarah's hobbies as a child? [2:44] – Andy refers to a quote from Sarah's website. [5:46] – Learn how an interest in weddings and events developed for Sarah. [8:07] – Sarah explains how she learned to handle the business side of things. [9:37] – Sarah walks us through her usual process with clients. [10:54] – Sarah reveals how she is usually inspired. [13:59] – Learn why Sarah lets clients in on what she is seeing. [16:24] – Sarah gives us an example of a memorable experience with a client. [18:50] – Sarah identifies weather as frequently being her most significant obstacle. [21:44] – Sarah is very appreciative of her team. [23:24] – Hear about Sarah's approach to social media. [25:20] – We are given advice, such as being true to ourselves. [27:10] – Sarah discusses her morning routine. [28:40] – Sarah describes her evening routine. [31:00] – Andy reveals where we can find Sarah online.   RESOURCES Sarah’s Ultimate Guide to Floral Design Course   Find Sarah: Sarah’s Website Sarah’s Instagram Page Sarah’s Pinterest Page   Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz Network The Music Makers   Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.   Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment & Zola.

    32 min

  6. 12/02/2024

    520 PAULETTE WOLF & JODI WOLF: Paulette Wolf Events

    Andy is so excited to welcome the mother-daughter dynamic duo that is Paulette and Jodi Wolf. Together, they run Paulette Wolf Events (PWE), with Paulette being the Chief Creative Officer and Founder and Jodi being the CEO. Based in Chicago, this acclaimed luxury wedding and event planning company has worked with prestigious events like the Super Bowl and Olympics, as well as working with iconic people such as Oprah and President Obama. Paulette and Jodi also authored the book Event Planning Made Easy! ​​Listen as Paulette shares her unexpected journey into event planning, navigating a male-dominated business landscape. Her serendipitous entry started with organizing club parties, which propelled her into the vast world of event management, highlighting her drive, adaptability, and classic creative flair. Her daughter, Jodi, the brilliant CEO, describes growing up in this vibrant environment, influencing her eventual career path despite early aspirations of becoming a child psychiatrist. Listeners will be treated to intriguing behind-the-scenes anecdotes and hear how this mother and daughter duo blends its unique skills to create unforgettable, personalized events. They dive into their creative process, highlighting personalized inspiration, be it from a client's favorite color or a significant photo, to imprint the couple's personality onto their special day. The episode explores how their approach has evolved, accommodating more direct involvement from the modern bride and groom. In a particularly exciting segment, Andy captures the essence of what distinguishes Paulette Wolf Events: innovative approaches and personalized experiences that defy traditional wedding norms, such as transforming weddings into captivating cocktail-like vibes filled with dynamic installations and premium dining options, upending the conventional seated dinner format! For those in event planning or simply seeking inspiration on crafting memorable experiences, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom, creativity, and real-world challenges faced by Paulette and Jodi as they continue to redefine luxury event planning. Andy had such a great time chatting with Paulette and Jodi and hopes that you enjoy listening to his conversation with them! If so, then he would love it if you were to share this episode with a few people you know who might also enjoy it. He would also appreciate it if you were to subscribe to the podcast if you aren't already so that you never miss a new episode! Be sure also to leave a top review wherever you listen because that really helps out the show and helps people find it!   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 [0:20] – Today's interview is with Paulette and Jodi Wolf of PWE. [1:53] - Paulette's event planning career began serendipitously through country club parties and persistence. [3:34] - Jodi transitioned from aspiring child psychiatrist to event planner, gaining diverse, hands-on experience. [6:27] - Jodi emphasizes personalizing events by incorporating clients' unique preferences and involvement in planning. [8:20] - Event planning involves tailoring creative designs to client priorities, venue constraints, and event scale. [10:34] - Hear about how a nontraditional wedding featured cocktail hour-style flow, unique seating, and dramatic, guest-friendly designs. [13:35] - Traditional weddings can feel stagnant, but creative planners c

    35 min

  7. 11/18/2024

    519 TWB – BROOKE KEEGAN: Building a Dream Wedding Business

    Andy is happy to be welcoming Brooke Keegan back to the show! Brooke is the visionary owner and creative director of Brooke Keegan Special Events, a leading firm specializing in custom, multi-day destination weddings, and since founding her company in 2009, she has garnered recognition from Harper's Bazaar and Brides as one of the world's top event planners! She is here with Andy in this episode to share, amongst other things, her invaluable insights from her years in the industry! As Brooke and Andy catch up, Brooke reflects on challenges faced, particularly the significant downturn in wedding engagements attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic and the typical slow- down during election years. She discusses the evolving wedding landscape, highlighting how while low-budget and extravagant weddings continue to thrive, mid-range events are seeing a decline. Brooke also shares her process for working with bridal couples, from initial consultations to curating a creative team tailored to each client's visio, and, emphasizing the importance of balance between creativity and business acumen, she sheds some light on how she navigates the complexities of managing a successful event planning company while prioritizing personal well-being. Andy had such a great time talking with Brooke just as he did the first time and hopes that you enjoy listening to this conversation with her! If so, then please don’t keep it to yourself. Andy asks that you please share it with at least three colleagues you know who would benefit from hearing this episode. Also, be sure to leave a top review wherever you listen because that really helps Andy and the show out!   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 [0:20] – We learn that this episode’s guest is returning guest Brooke Keegan! [2:01] - Brooke discusses how the wedding industry activity has slowed, with fewer weddings and lighter-than-expected calendars this past year (2024). [3:22] - Mid-range weddings have declined, but Brooke is optimistic for 2025. [6:16] - Brooke tailors her planning process based on each client's engagement stage, preferences, and budget. [9:57] - Creative partner teams are curated like recipes, combining complementary skills for each event. [10:49] - Brooke adds that creative partner selection depends on investment, style, and personality. [13:41] - Andy argues that balancing creativity with business structure is crucial for running successful events. [14:23] - Brooke asserts that weddings are a business that require detailed budgets, transparency, and professionalism. [17:01] - Surrounding herself with knowledgeable people and maintaining accountability drives personal and professional growth for Brooke. [19:59] - How does Brooke balance personal life with business? [21:00] - Brooke believes that prioritizing personal time and self-care is crucial for work-life balance and job satisfaction. [24:22] - Establishing investment strategies and retirement plans is very important for long-term financial security in the industry. [27:32] - Andy reveals where Brooke can be found online.   RESOURCES The Wedding Biz - 483 BROOKE KEEGAN: The Long Game, Creative Partners, Pricing Strategy, and More!   Find Brooke: Brooke’s Website The Brooke Keegan Blueprint Brooke’s Instagram Page Brooke’s Facebook Page Brooke’s Pinterest Page   Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz Th

    28 min

  8. 11/04/2024

    518 TWB – BRYAN RAFANELLI: The Art of Lasting Success & Self-Fulfillment

    Andy really hopes that you will join him for this episode of The Wedding Biz as he welcomes back to the show Bryan Rafanelli of Rafanelli Events! ​​Bryan is a renowned designer and planner and is the founder and chief creative officer of Rafanelli Events, and he has been behind some of the most high-profile events in recent history, including Chelsea Clinton’s wedding and several of President Obama’s White House state dinners. His team has also worked on key campaign events for Vice President Kamala Harris! Bryan opens up about the pressures of maintaining excellence in a saturated market, admitting that even after decades of success, he still feels the weight of “being only as good as your last event.” Listen in to hear him reflect on how he balances innovation with authenticity, rejecting trends for the sake of trends and instead focusing on creating meaningful connections through his work. He also shares his candid thoughts on burnout, revealing that while he’s sometimes tempted to step back, his passion for creativity keeps him grounded. Whether designing an unforgettable party or brainstorming new ideas, Bryan thrives on making the impossible possible! This episode of The Wedding Biz truly goes beyond event planning, diving deeply into the challenges of balancing the business and creative aspects of a career in design. Bryan and Andy also touch on the importance of surrounding oneself with talented people, finding joy in personal routines, and staying motivated in the face of immense success. Join them for an inspiring conversation about the highs and lows of life at the top of the creative industry! If you enjoy and get something insightful out of this conversation with Bryan, then please don’t keep it to yourself! Andy asks that you please share it with at least three friends and/or colleagues you know who would benefit from hearing this episode. Also, be sure to leave a top review wherever you listen because that really helps Andy and the show out!   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 [0:31] – We learn that this episode’s guest is returning guest Bryan Rafanelli of Rafanelli Events! [2:01] - Bryan strives to create unique and memorable events that resonate with their themes! [3:35] - Bryan shares how he loves his current creative career and feels fulfilled by the challenges that it presents. [6:32] - Andy recalls Bryan's appreciation for balancing artistic creativity with business success. [7:36] - Bryan emphasizes the importance of balancing creativity and business for overall success. [9:27] - Bryan believes in staying engaged with both creative and business aspects for success. [11:01] - Bryan values all opportunities and continuously strives to maintain and enhance his success. [14:50] - Pushing his team forward, Bryan thrives on accomplishing seemingly impossible challenges. [17:11] - Bryan finds fulfillment in balancing work and personal happiness while taking advantage of exciting opportunities. [19:40] - Andy recalls a memorable event that Bryan designed and seeks another satisfying story. [20:15] - We learn how Bryan has mastered creating adaptable wedding plans, finding beauty in unexpected weather. [23:26] - We hear how Bryan enjoys solving real-time challenges in event planning, especially in relation to weather changes. [26:33] - Bryan is involved in politics and anticipates the impact of upcoming elect

    29 min
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4.8
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117 Ratings

About

Andy Kushner offers an inside look behind-the-scenes of the wedding and event world for both industry experts and bridal couples by featuring in-depth and transformative conversations with event industry icons. The Wedding Biz is also the only global platform of its kind to serve the business development needs of wedding and events professionals. As the host, Andy interviews the most prolific thought leaders and talent, taking you behind the curtain and revealing their personality, character, passions, and secrets to their success. Andy’s powerful, yet casual and comfortable interview style gives you access to the authentic story each of these incredible industry leaders has to share. The Wedding Biz podcast is your opportunity to really get to know the amazing personalities that endlessly elevate the world of weddings and special events.

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