Ep. 85: How to Start and Grow a Wedding Planning Business in Today's Market

It’s spooky season, wedding pro edition! 👻🎃 We are trading the usual wedding business talk for something a little more terrifying: real-life scary wedding stories submitted by fellow wedding pros. From crazy moments to wedding-day chaos that sounds straight out of a horror movie, these stories prove that sometimes the scariest part of a wedding isn’t planning one… it’s what happens behind the scenes! Grab your favorite Halloween treat, settle in, and get ready to laugh, gasp, and maybe question a few things you’ve seen at weddings yourself. Because if you’ve worked in the wedding industry long enough, you know the stories are real. Hit play for some wedding-day frights, and remember: what happens at the wedding… might just haunt you forever.  --- Another Biz Podcast Info:  Website: https://justanotherbizpodcast.com/  Join Us on Substack for More Content: https://justanotherbizpodcast.substack.com/  Instagram for the Pod: https://www.instagram.com/justanotherbizpodcast  Instagram for Kari: https://www.instagram.com/featheredarrowstudio/  Instagram for Gabby : https://www.instagram.com/causewecanevents   

What happens when the weather becomes the biggest wildcard in your wedding day timeline?  This week on Just Another Biz Podcast, Kari and Gabby are joined by Andrew Leavitt of Ironic Reports to talk about his business, the recent hurricanes, and why weather monitoring is such an important part of planning weddings and events. Because having a rain plan is one thing… knowing what’s actually happening with the weather is another and sometimes every app is telling us something different.  We’re getting into the business behind Ironic Reports and why keeping an eye on changing weather conditions matters for wedding planners, event pros, and everyone working behind the scenes to make an event happen. From outdoor ceremonies to storm risks, this is your reminder that weather awareness and preparedness isn’t just a day-of detail, it’s an important part of event preparation and keeping guests safe.  In this episode, we talk about: Andrew Leavitt and the business behind Ironic Reports The recent hurricanes and what they remind us about weather preparedness Why weather monitoring matters for weddings and events The difference between having a rain plan and actively monitoring conditions Why wedding planners and event pros need to take weather seriously when preparing for event day Enjoy today's episode Jabbers and keep an eye on the weather, no matter where you live!    A little bit more about Andrew:  Andrew Leavitt is the founder of Ironic Reports, a concierge meteorology company specifically for events. With the help of his team of meteorologists, Ironic has helped planners, designers, and venues behind high-end weddings, social celebrations, and corporate programs make calm, confident weather decisions. You can find and work with Andrew at: https://www.ironicreports.com/about And for the most real time updates and following along with the latest over at Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ironicreports     Another Biz Podcast Info:  Website: https://justanotherbizpodcast.com/  Join Us on Substack for More Content: https://justanotherbizpodcast.substack.com/  Instagram for the Pod: https://www.instagram.com/justanotherbizpodcast  Instagram for Kari: https://www.instagram.com/featheredarrowstudio/  Instagram for Gabby : https://www.instagram.com/causewecanevents 

Hey Jabbers! This week we're chatting all about how to give vendors feedback that is constructive even if it feels awkward. You want to be honest when something didn’t go well, but you also don’t want to burn a bridge, create unnecessary tension, or come across like you’re just complaining. In this episode we're getting into the nitty gritty of giving vendors constructive feedback. We’re talking about what to say when a vendor misses the mark, how to approach those conversations without making things weird, and why avoiding feedback altogether can sometimes make things worse. Because let’s be honest: we work with the same vendor teams over and over again. So how do you have the hard conversations and still build strong, respectful relationships? We’re breaking it all down with plenty of real talk along the way. We're not perfect in doing this ourselves but we're getting better and hoping we'll encourage you to feel empowered to do this when necessary! Enjoy!  ---  Just Another Biz Podcast Info:  Website: https://justanotherbizpodcast.com/  Join Us on Substack for More Content: https://justanotherbizpodcast.substack.com/  Instagram for the Pod: https://www.instagram.com/justanotherbizpodcast  Instagram for Kari: https://www.instagram.com/featheredarrowstudio/  Instagram for Gabby : https://www.instagram.com/causewecanevents 

Hey Jabbers! This week Gabby and Kari are talking about what starting and growing a wedding planning business looks like and how it's a bit different than it used to be. From finding clients and building vendor relationships to figuring out your pricing and personal brand, there's a lot more to it than just planning beautiful weddings. We talk about what it really takes to build a wedding planning business today. We're sharing our thoughts on networking, showing up as yourself, pricing strategically, and creating a community that supports your growth. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your existing business, this episode is full of real talk about navigating the wedding industry. Enjoy!  ---  Just Another Biz Podcast Info:  Website: https://justanotherbizpodcast.com/  Join Us on Substack for More Content: https://justanotherbizpodcast.substack.com/  Instagram for the Pod: https://www.instagram.com/justanotherbizpodcast  Instagram for Kari: https://www.instagram.com/featheredarrowstudio/  Instagram for Gabby : https://www.instagram.com/causewecanevents     

Styled shoots are gorgeous. We love a pretty tablescape, a dreamy venue, and a gallery that makes you want to completely rebrand your business overnight.  But… what is a styled shoot actually doing for your business? Are you doing it right and is it worth it? In today's episode, we’re chatting with Amanda Landon from Amanda Marie and Co. about the real cost of styled shoots and we’re not just talking about the dollars. We get into how styled shoots have evolved in the wedding industry, why you should have a strategy before you start gathering a dream vendor team, and how to make sure the shoot actually aligns with your brand and business goals. We’re also talking about the money, time, and relationships that go into creating a styled shoot, plus how to get the most out of the investment. From building vendor relationships to creating work that feels like you to increasing your chances of not only getting published but making money from it, Amanda shares what she’s learned about making styled shoots work harder for your business. Because a styled shoot can be way more than a pretty portfolio piece but only if you’re intentional about why you’re doing it in the first place. So, if you’ve ever found yourself wondering “Should I be doing styled shoots?” or “Is this actually worth what it’s costing me?”, grab your coffee (or buckle up for that venue drive) and join us for this conversation. Enjoy Jabbers!   How You Can Find and Work With Amanda:  Website: https://amandamarieco.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandamarieandco/   A few links to Amanda's styled shoots that she spoke about in the episode:  https://amandamarieco.com/featured-gallery-the-sloane-nashville  https://amandamarieco.com/featured-gallery-michela-watsonbloomsbury-farm-brand-shoot  https://amandamarieco.com/featured-gallery-intimate-wedding-at-sunstone-villa-wedding  https://amandamarieco.com/featured-gallery-four-seasons   Just Another Biz Podcast Info:  Website: https://justanotherbizpodcast.com/  Join Us on Substack for More Content: https://justanotherbizpodcast.substack.com/  Instagram for the Pod: https://www.instagram.com/justanotherbizpodcast  Instagram for Kari: https://www.instagram.com/featheredarrowstudio/  Instagram for Gabby : https://www.instagram.com/causewecanevents 

Hey Jabbers! This week we are chatting about how wedding pros can manage stress and avoid burnout during busy season by simply taking care of yourself. That time of year is upon us for a lot of pros and we wanted to share some practical tips on setting boundaries, outsourcing, and maintaining mental health to stay sane and balanced. We all need a little reminder on how to stay our best selves and so that we don't feel like quitting after our last wedding of the year has finished.  A few key reminders for our wedding friends:  Set boundaries during busy season Self-care and movement is important Outsource or hire and temporary help if needed, don't do it alone. Figure out how to manage decision fatigue and get some emotional support from fellow vendor friends Make sure team roles are clear and communication is key with your team and your clients Tell us how you handle your busy seasons and what helps you the most! Enjoy!    --- Just Another Biz Podcast Info:  Website: https://justanotherbizpodcast.com/  Join Us on Substack for More Content: https://justanotherbizpodcast.substack.com/  Instagram for the Pod: https://www.instagram.com/justanotherbizpodcast  Instagram for Kari: https://www.instagram.com/featheredarrowstudio/  Instagram for Gabby : https://www.instagram.com/causewecanevents     

Hey Jabbers!  On today's episode we dive into client managing our client's expectations with communication. Client communication can be one of the trickiest parts of running a wedding business and sometimes boundaries are crossed or blurred. We're diving into client expectations, setting communication boundaries, and creating a planning experience that doesn’t require you to be available 24/7. Let's be honest, we do have lives!  We get into the practical systems and mindset shifts that can make communication smoother from setting expectations early to creating boundaries that actually work. Because being a great wedding pro doesn’t mean answering every text, email, and “quick question” the second it comes through. Key Points:  How to set clearer client expectations from the start Why communication boundaries are good for both you and your clients Systems that can help reduce communication overwhelm How to create a better client experience without being constantly available We'd love to hear how you handle boundaries with your clients and set expectations throughout the process. Let us know! Enjoy, Jabbers!    --- Just Another Biz Podcast Info:  Website: https://justanotherbizpodcast.com/  Join Us on Substack for More Content: https://justanotherbizpodcast.substack.com/  Instagram for the Pod: https://www.instagram.com/justanotherbizpodcast  Instagram for Kari: https://www.instagram.com/featheredarrowstudio/  Instagram for Gabby : https://www.instagram.com/causewecanevents 

Hey Jabbers! This week we're chatting about money! Do you want to make more money as a wedding planner without adding more clients to your calendar? In this episode, we're talking about creative ways to diversify your income and increase revenue beyond your standard planning packages. From venue research and wedding websites to rental add-ons, UGC content, room blocks, and more, we're sharing practical ideas wedding planners can explore to create additional income streams. If you’re looking to boost your revenue without booking more weddings, this episode is for you.   This episode was sponsored by our friends over at Minted!  https://www.minted.com/lp/wedding-professionals Wedding planners, listen up! We know you love exclusive perks just as much as your clients do. Our friends at Minted have a FREE program just for wedding professionals. And by free, we mean actually free, not a “free for 30 days” bait-and-switch. When you join the Minted Wedding Professionals Program, you and your clients get access to Minted’s best discounts (better than any offers you’ll find on Minted’s website): 35% off save the dates 25% off all other wedding stationery Plus other exclusive perks: Free upgrades on custom wedding website URLs Free stationery samples Complimentary Concierge support if you or your clients need help with an order I’ve been a program member for years and can personally vouch for how much my clients love these perks. Our clients are spending a lot on their wedding, so when we can help them save a little here and there, we’re all for it. If you’re already recommending Minted to your couples, why leave money or perks on the table? If you mention that you’re a Just Another Biz Podcast listener, you’ll get a special gift after you sign up. (terms apply: click below to read the terms & conditions)  https://issuu.com/minted/docs/just_another_biz_podcast_promotion_terms_conditi?fr=xIAEoAT3_MzMz)  Sign up for the free Minted Wedding Professionals Program below: https://www.minted.com/lp/wedding-professionals Free program. Amazing discounts. Free samples. Personalized support. Special sign-up gift. We love a business decision that requires approximately zero convincing! Go sign up, Jabbers, and thank us later. --- Just Another Biz Podcast Info:  Website: https://justanotherbizpodcast.com/  Join Us on Substack for More Content: https://justanotherbizpodcast.substack.com/  Instagram for the Pod: https://www.instagram.com/justanotherbizpodcast  Instagram for Kari: https://www.instagram.com/featheredarrowstudio/  Instagram for Gabby : https://www.instagram.com/causewecanevents     

This week on the podcast, we are chatting about wedding etiquette from guest behavior, invitation protocols, and navigating family involvement to help couples have the perfect day! There are a lot of questions about what's "right", what's "wrong" and traditional vs. non-traditional. At the end of the day, our clients can make their own rules for their big day as long as it represents them! As planners and wedding pros, we're here to guide our clients and make it all a little bit easier.    This episode was sponsored by our friends over at Minted!  https://www.minted.com/lp/wedding-professionals Wedding planners, listen up! We know you love exclusive perks just as much as your clients do. Our friends at Minted have a FREE program just for wedding professionals. And by free, we mean actually free, not a “free for 30 days” bait-and-switch. When you join the Minted Wedding Professionals Program, you and your clients get access to Minted’s best discounts (better than any offers you’ll find on Minted’s website): 35% off save the dates 25% off all other wedding stationery Plus other exclusive perks: Free upgrades on custom wedding website URLs Free stationery samples Complimentary Concierge support if you or your clients need help with an order I’ve been a program member for years and can personally vouch for how much my clients love these perks. Our clients are spending a lot on their wedding, so when we can help them save a little here and there, we’re all for it. If you’re already recommending Minted to your couples, why leave money or perks on the table? If you mention that you’re a Just Another Biz Podcast listener, you’ll get a special gift after you sign up. (terms apply: click below to read the terms & conditions)  https://issuu.com/minted/docs/just_another_biz_podcast_promotion_terms_conditi?fr=xIAEoAT3_MzMz)  Sign up for the free Minted Wedding Professionals Program below: https://www.minted.com/lp/wedding-professionals Free program. Amazing discounts. Free samples. Personalized support. Special sign-up gift. We love a business decision that requires approximately zero convincing! Go sign up, Jabbers, and thank us later.   --- Just Another Biz Podcast Info:  Website: https://justanotherbizpodcast.com/  Join Us on Substack for More Content: https://justanotherbizpodcast.substack.com/  Instagram for the Pod: https://www.instagram.com/justanotherbizpodcast  Instagram for Kari: https://www.instagram.com/featheredarrowstudio/  Instagram for Gabby : https://www.instagram.com/causewecanevents   

If you’ve ever filled out the same information three different times, answered the same vendor question in multiple places, or wondered why your “efficient” system is somehow creating more work… this episode is for you. We are talking about the frustrations of automated forms, systems, and processes in the wedding planning industry and the very real problem of redundancy and how it's wasting our time. We’re looking at how AI and newer tools can actually help wedding pros streamline their workflows, cut down on repetitive tasks, and spend less time pushing information from one system to another. Oftentimes, we find a lot of redundancy amongst wedding pros and it's making more work for everyone. Sometimes, you may need to customize your automated workflows a bit better to serve your clients and help out your wedding planner friends! Plus, your clients will trust you more when you're not sending them a form to fill out after they already provided you with all the information!    KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM TODAY'S EPISODE:   Automated emails often send redundant forms, causing frustration for our clients and other vendors. AI can be used to pre-fill questionnaires and manage communication drafts, saving hours of work. A unified client portal for all vendors could eliminate duplicate data entry and improve efficiency. Can someone create this?!  We talked about how current CRM systems are often inadequate and need to evolve to meet the diverse needs of vendors. Planners should consider customizing automation workflows to better serve their clients and reduce manual work. Take a listen and let us know your thoughts! We'd love to hear more about your workflow and how you work smarter not harder!    ----  Just Another Biz Podcast Info:  Website: https://justanotherbizpodcast.com/  Join Us on Substack for More Content: https://justanotherbizpodcast.substack.com/  Instagram for the Pod: https://www.instagram.com/justanotherbizpodcast  Instagram for Kari: https://www.instagram.com/featheredarrowstudio/  Instagram for Gabby : https://www.instagram.com/causewecanevents