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. 6D AGO

    529 DAWSON HAYNES MITCHELL: Easton Events’ Executive Director

    Andy is excited to share this interview with Dawson Haynes Mitchell, executive director of Easton Events. Dawson pulls back the curtain on what it means to be the right hand of one of the industry’s most respected planners, Lynn Easton. She discusses how luxury event planning is all about seamless execution and stunning experiences and, behind the scenes, it's really a high-pressure world demanding adaptability, sharp problem-solving, and in-depth attention to detail. Listen in as Dawson shares how she rose from intern to a leadership role over the course of ten years, managing everything from budgets and timelines to client interactions. She offers us a look at the intense problem-solving that comes with the job, from last-minute challenges to the constant push for perfection. Dawson also discusses her close working relationship with Lynn and how mentorship has helped shape her approach to leadership. Dawson introduces eventPERCH, Easton Events’ software designed to bring order to the chaos of event planning and to offer planners a better, and more efficient way of handling budgets, schedules, and payments. Looking ahead, she reflects on the possibility of one day stepping into Lynn’s shoes and what it would mean to carry forward Easton’s legacy. Andy had such a great time chatting with Dawson for this episode and hopes that listeners enjoy listening. If so, then please share this episode with at least three people you feel will also enjoy it and subscribe to the podcast, if you aren’t already, so that you never miss a new episode! Be sure to also leave a top review wherever you listen to podcasts because that really helps 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 [0:35] - Today’s episode is with Dawson Haynes Mitchell of Easton Events. [2:04] Dawson reveals that she landed her first real job at Easton after an internship during her senior year. [4:11] Initially rejected for an internship at Easton, Dawson reapplied with experience and was then accepted. [6:57] Easton operates transparently, with Lynn handling high-level decisions while others manage finer details. [8:25] Easton blends planning and design, collaborating with clients and partners to refine event aesthetics. [10:37] Dawson shares that success at Easton requires resilience, adaptability, and maintaining composure under pressure. [13:36] Dawson ensures that small issues don’t escalate by having proper paperwork and anticipating client needs. [16:48] - Dawson discusses overcoming her fear of delegation and learning to manage tasks more effectively. [18:55] - Dawson describes her close, open communication with Lynn Easton. [21:42] - Dawson shares her love for traveling with Lynn, both enjoying site visits together even though they have varying schedules. [23:43] - Dawson discusses the challenges of frequent travel, balancing the perks with personal life struggles. [25:35] - Hear how Easton Events unintentionally began developing a tech startup to improve event planning software. [27:52] - Dawson discusses Easton's soft launch of eventPERCH, gathering feedback and aiming for a full release by summer. [29:22] - Dawson reflects on Lynn's impact, feeling empowered and valued as her "number two.” [32:34] - Andy reveals where Dawson can be found online.   RESOURCES Lynn Easton’s Guest Spots on The Wedding Biz Find Dawson: Dawson’s Instagram Page Easton Events - Website   Easton Events - Instagram Page   Easton Events - Facebook Page eventPERCH - 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.

    33 min

  2. APR 7

    528 REVISIT MAURICIO KIRSCHNER: Architect of Dreams and Deep in the Heart of Event Design

    Andy brings us a revisit of his March 2023 interview with Mauricio Kirschner, the founder and chief designer of House of Kirschner. They create out-of-this world interior and event design, and are also professional architects which enables them to design and produce unique constructions and designware beyond the usual. In this insightful revisit, Andy and Mauricio discuss Mauricio's childhood passion for construction, structure, and architecture, and Mauricio talks about how he started his career as an architect and then got pulled into the event industry, then diving deep into the heart of what event design means to him, describing it in a unique way. Mauricio also explains the unexpected way in which he begins his creative meetings, reveals what inspires him, and so much more! Andy found this interview to be absolutely fascinating and knows that listeners will also get a lot out of it and find themselves inspired, so if you do, then please share this revisit episode with at least three people you feel will also enjoy it and subscribe to the podcast, if you aren’t already, so that you never miss a new episode! Be sure to also leave a top review wherever you listen to podcasts because that really helps 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 [0:25] – Andy reveals today’s episode to be a revisit of his interview with Mauricio Kirschner of House of Kirschner. [1:02] – Mauricio describes what he does. [2:45] – Learn about Mauricio’s passions as a child. [4:43] – Mauricio discusses his education and his beginnings. [7:06] – Mauricio compares what he does to alchemy. [9:53] – How does Mauricio come up with ideas? [12:59] – When does Mauricio share his ideas with clients? [15:40] – Mauricio begins with a meditation with his team. [19:14] – How does Mauricio inspire himself? [22:52] – Mauricio argues that fashion helps promote inclusiveness. [27:11] – Andy offers insight into perspective. [27:48] - Learn what House of Kirschner’s philosophy and purpose are. [30:48] – Mauricio expands upon why he shares his beliefs with his team. [34:52] – Does Mauricio have any unrealized dreams? [38:51] – Andy shares where to find Mauricio.   RESOURCES   Find Mauricio: House of Kischner – Website House of Kischner – Instagram Page Mauricio’s Instagram 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.

    40 min

  3. MAR 17

    527 JULIE NOVACK: PartySlate’s New Book, Rising Wedding Trends, and AI

    Andy is thrilled to have Julie Novack of PartySlate back on the show again! Julie is no stranger to the show as she has been on several times. Julie is the CEO and co-founder of PartySlate, a groundbreaking photo-rich website connecting event professionals, planners, and venues! Join Andy and Julie in this episode as she provides some updates, since the last time that she was on the show, including the publication of their book PartySlate Weddings: A Keepsake Planner! Listen as Julie discusses the inspiration behind the book, revealing how it serves as both a practical planning guide for couples as well as a valuable tool for industry professionals. She and Andy explore how the book helps educate clients, making them more prepared and engaged throughout the planning process. Beyond the book, Julie shares how PartySlate has revolutionized the events industry by providing a photo-rich platform that connects engaged couples with top-tier planners, venues, and vendors. With over 30,000 event professionals showcasing more than 4 million event photos, PartySlate has become an invaluable resource for those planning unforgettable celebrations! Andy and Julie also discuss current trends in the wedding industry, from unstructured floral arrangements to a more playful, more customized approach to event design. They also touch upon the importance of content marketing and how PartySlate’s AI-driven tools help event professionals streamline their workflow. Whether you’re an engaged couple looking for guidance or a seasoned industry pro seeking fresh insights, this conversation with Julie is, as always, full of valuable takeaways. Andy, as he always does, had a great time catching up with Julie and hope that you enjoy listening to his conversation with her. If so, then please be sure to grab a copy of her book and to share this episode of The Wedding Biz with at least three people who would also get something out of it. Andy would also appreciate it if you were to leave a top review wherever you listen and to subscribe to the podcast so that you never miss a new episode!   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] - Andy announces today’s guest - returning guest Julie Novack of PartySlate! [2:23] - Julie reflects on her belief in the power of events to connect people and create lasting memories. [5:54] - The new book educates clients on event planning while helping industry professionals establish credibility. [8:44] - Educating clients improves communication and ensures a better understanding of the event planning process. [10:47] - Julie reveals that PartySlate’s goal is to simplify wedding planning, breaking down complicated steps into digestible pieces. [13:29] - Creating celebratory moments, from entrance to reception, is very important when trying to make an event especially memorable. [15:08] - Julie believes that creating memorable events involves engaging all the senses, not just visuals. [17:22] - Julie points out how floral trends are shifting towards more creative designs in various event settings. [19:36] - There is a growing trend of mismatched place settings and playful, unique designs in events. [20:19] - Julie feels that having full control over content is important for brand-building and successful marketing in the event industry. [22:33] - Andy reveals where Julie and PartySlate can be found online.   LINKS AND RESOURCES Julie’s Previous Guest Spots on The Wedding Biz Julie Novack - PartySlate Weddings: A Keepsake Planner   Find Julie: julie@partyslate.com PartySlate – Website Sign up for PartySlate PartySlate Review PartySlate - Instagram Page Julie’s Instagram Page PartySlate - TikTok Page PartySlate - Facebook 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.

    23 min

  4. MAR 3

    526 MARISSA MORRISON: Utilizing Gratitude & Manifestation to Create Your Dream Life & Career

    Andy sits down for this episode with Marissa Morrison, a successful destination wedding photographer, transformative mindset coach, and host of The Marissa Morrison Show podcast. Listen in as Marissa opens up about her journey from being a 19-year-old single mother with no support to establishing a thriving business and helping others achieve their dreams! She also shares how gratitude and manifestation played incredibly important roles in her success and explains how these practices continue to guide her now. Marissa and Andy also discuss the power of gratitude, love, and presence in creating a fulfilling life and career, with Marissa discussing how our thoughts and energy shape our reality and how staying present can help lead to opportunities for growth. She shares her process for manifesting dreams, highlighting why it's important to align your actions with your vision. Marissa explores her unique perspective on relational manifesting (focusing on creating harmony between your vision and that of others), especially in her approach to working with clients in the wedding industry. This mindset has both enhanced her photography as well as elevated her business, allowing her to charge premium prices for her work. Throughout this episode, Marissa offers some practical tips for cultivating a positive mindset, overcoming limiting beliefs, and taking action, encouraging listeners to trust their intuition and keep showing up for their dreams, no matter the challenges. Andy had a wonderful time having this unique and inspirational conversation with Marissa and hopes that you enjoy listening! If so, then he asks that you please not keep it to yourself! If you can think of at least three good friends who might really benefit from and enjoy this episode, 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! 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 [0:30] - Andy announces today’s guest - Marissa Morrison! [2:41] - Gratitude shifts our mindset, opening us up to abundance while reducing fear, doubt, and worry. [5:02] - Marissa explains that true transformation comes from raising our vibration over time. [8:00] - Andy and Marissa discuss how our past affects perceptions and manifesting goals. [9:35] - Manifestation begins with being present because focusing energy on the moment attracts positive outcomes. [10:29] - Presence, love, and gratitude create a trio aligning our desires with acceptance and understanding. [13:14] - Marissa discusses how accepting struggles and emotions shifts our frequency. [15:19] - Marissa reflects on her decision to pursue photography at 19, despite being a single mother. [17:58] - The universe aligns to support our intentions. [20:15] - Marissa argues that our reality is shaped by our beliefs and energy frequency; we must believe, trust, and surrender. [22:58] - Practices such as meditation and journaling help, but old patterns can block progress. [24:53] - Focusing on the present and celebrating wins raises frequency and opens us up to new possibilities. [27:27] - Manifestation thrives when we focus on giving and being authentic and grateful. [30:59] - Successful manifestation involves aligning visions and creating plans that align personal and collaborative goals. [32:03] - Marissa reflects on how, by taking responsibility and collaborating with clients, she created authentic work and charged more. [35:21] - Marissa argues that manifestation requires presence, intention, bold action, and overcoming limiting beliefs. [38:40] - You are enough, worthy, and capable of achieving your desires, which already exist in your future! [39:43] - Learn where to find Marissa online.   RESOURCES   Find Marissa: Marissa’s Website Marissa’s Instagram Page The Marissa Morrison Show Marissa’s YouTube Channel The Inspire Retreat for Photographers   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.

    41 min

  5. FEB 17

    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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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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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