305. Engaged Couples Tell Us Exactly What They Want from Wedding Pros

Alright, picture this—you’re newly engaged, stepping into a gorgeous venue, surrounded by wedding vendors, floral arrangements, cake samples, and a whole lot of decisions to make. Exciting? Absolutely. Overwhelming? Also yes.That was the scene at the Merrimon-Wynne House in downtown Raleigh, where we attended a wedding vendor showcase to talk to real couples about their planning experience.We asked couples what they were looking for in vendors, what’s been the most surprising part of wedding planning so far, and what’s been an instant dealbreaker—and let’s just say, we got some real talk. From budget struggles to vendor ghosting to the sheer horror of discovering you have to pick out your own linens (yes, really), these couples didn’t hold back.---Resource Mentioned:Done-for-You Lead Magnet Template for Wedding Pros: https://www.theplannersvault.com/shop/p/done-for-you-lead-magnet-template-for-wedding-pros---Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault. The doors are currently closed for The Planner's Vault, but join the wait list now so you can be the first to know when the doors re-open.Weddings for Real on Social Media:Instagram: @weddingsforrealFacebook: @weddingsforrealtwitter: @weddingsforrealHosted by Megan Gillikin, Weddings for Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Earfluence.

What does it truly mean to embrace your authentic self, even when it feels scary or uncertain? In this heartfelt episode, we welcome Don Mamone—photographer, speaker, author, and educator—to share their deeply personal journey of stepping away from societal expectations and living courageously outside the binary.Don’s story is one of vulnerability, courage, and redefining identity. From facing decades of repression to embracing their true self and becoming a powerful advocate for authenticity, Don’s insights will leave you feeling inspired to explore your own journey and show up for others as an imperfect ally.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Don’s journey of self-discovery and the powerful moment they chose authenticity over societal expectations.How to create safer, more inclusive spaces for marginalized communities, including practical tips for allies.What it means to live outside the binary—and how this applies to everyone, not just those questioning gender norms.The concept of "imperfect allyship" and why intention matters more than perfection when supporting others.How unlearning outdated beliefs can lead to freedom, joy, and a deeper understanding of yourself and others.-----Connect with Don Mamone:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donmamoneWebsite: https://donmamone.com/Different Doesn't Mean Broken: Living Courageously Outside the Binary: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1646494385/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_44MQ8MNYCWFPDDRBKZFF------[00:02:30] I knew there was something different.[00:05:56] To be authentic is euphoric.[00:14:25] Courage means taking steps into the unknown.[00:21:14] What does living outside the binary mean?[00:28:15] Allyship isn’t perfect—it’s about intention.[00:36:09] Are your actions creating a safer space?[00:45:52] Who you are is exactly enough.---Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault. The doors are currently closed for The Planner's Vault, but join the wait list now so you can be the first to know when the doors re-open.Weddings for Real on Social Media:Instagram: @weddingsforrealFacebook: @weddingsforrealtwitter: @weddingsforrealHosted by Megan Gillikin, Weddings for Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Earfluence.

Let’s talk contracts, wedding pros! Are you confident that the clauses in your contracts truly protect your small business?Maybe you’re working off a template you bought years ago or piecing together bits you’ve found online. Or perhaps the thought of reviewing your contract gives you a pit in your stomach, and you’re not quite sure what some of the legal jargon actually means.If that’s you, this episode is here to help. From indemnity clauses to liability concerns to making your contracts work for you, Leah Weinberg’s expert advice will help you feel more confident and empowered to protect your business.-----Connect with Leah Weinberg:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theleahweinberg------[00:02:48] Meet Leah WeinbergLeah shares her journey from commercial real estate attorney to wedding planner to legal expert for event pros.[00:05:30] What is an Indemnity Clause?Leah explains this essential contract provision, complete with real-life examples of how it protects wedding vendors.[00:10:50] Liability Issues: Lessons from a Cake DisasterMegan shares a story about a wedding mishap and how an indemnity clause could have saved the day.[00:15:56] Signing Contracts with VenuesLeah discusses the risks of venue agreements and what to watch out for before signing.[00:22:40] Retainer vs. Deposit: Why Words MatterLeah clears up the confusion between these two terms and explains why using the right one can protect your business.[00:29:37] The ABCs of LegaleseLeah introduces her new Instagram series breaking down legal jargon, one letter at a time.[00:32:46] Building a Relationship with an AttorneyLeah’s top advice for wedding pros: Don’t wait until you’re in a bind to find a lawyer.[00:34:55] Final Takeaways and Next StepsMegan and Leah share actionable advice for wedding pros to feel more confident about contracts and legal protection.---Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault. The doors are currently closed for The Planner's Vault, but join the wait list now so you can be the first to know when the doors re-open.Weddings for Real on Social Media:Instagram: @weddingsforrealFacebook: @weddingsforrealtwitter: @weddingsforrealHosted by Megan Gillikin, Weddings for Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Earfluence.

It's that time of year where marketing is top of mind for small business owners!Except maybe you're frustrated because the marketing efforts you've been putting in aren't quite working, or maybe you're posting on socials hoping to stand out, but it feels like you're blending into that sea of sameness with wedding pros doing the exact same thing. Or, let's be real, maybe you're stuck in the analysis paralysis stage, where you're so overwhelmed with what to do from a marketing standpoint that you aren't doing much at all. Need some marketing help? You picked the right episode.-----Connect with Becca Pountney:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beccapountney/Done is better than perfect: Building a profitable wedding business, by Becca Pountney: https://www.amazon.com/Done-better-than-perfect-profitable/dp/1399995847Wedding Pros Who are Ready to Grow Podcast: https://beccapountney.com/podcast/------(00:00:00) Building emotional connections to market your wedding business(00:04:30) Couples are overwhelmed with choice(00:09:36) What can Coca Cola teach small businesses about marketing?(00:12:08) How do our services go from "nice to have" to "must have"?(00:25:23) Hot takes including, Should you have pricing on your website?(00:28:50) Strategic Consistency in Marketing Messages---Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault. The doors are currently closed for The Planner's Vault, but join the wait list now so you can be the first to know when the doors re-open.Weddings for Real on Social Media:Instagram: @weddingsforrealFacebook: @weddingsforrealtwitter: @weddingsforrealHosted by Megan Gillikin, Weddings for Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Earfluence.

How are you currently using AI to lighten your daily load and your to do list? Have you felt overwhelmed by all the AI things and tech tools out there? Maybe you've bought in on a few, signed up for a few free trials here and there, but you don't have the time and capacity to dig in and explore what's really going to help you in your business. It's a lot.Well, today's episode is for anyone who's ready to simplify, streamline, and show up with more ease in their business and personal life by using AI tools more intentionally. -----Connect with Tanisha Lee:Collectively Wed: https://soirees-by-lee-2.showit.site/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collectivelywed/-----Tools Mentioned:Motion: https://www.usemotion.com/Honeybook: https://www.theplannersvault.com/honeybook-coupon-codeDubsado: https://dubsado.com/?c=vaultPerplexity: https://www.perplexity.ai/Claude: https://claude.ai/Cruise Control: https://www.cruisecontrol.ai/social-media/Whimsy: https://usewhimsy.com/Hearth: https://hearth.ai/Fathom: https://fathom.video/invite/RKiLfw------(00:06:21) AI Tools as Virtual Team Members?(00:16:23) Streamlining Payment Collection(00:18:08) AI Tools for Task Automation(00:21:15) ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity(00:24:30) Whimsy for Your Inbox(00:34:26) AI Integration for Your Business---Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault. The doors are currently closed for The Planner's Vault, but join the wait list now so you can be the first to know when the doors re-open.Weddings for Real on Social Media:Instagram: @weddingsforrealFacebook: @weddingsforrealtwitter: @weddingsforrealHosted by Megan Gillikin, Weddings for Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Earfluence.

For the past five years, I’ve closed out each year with a special episode where I invite my husband to join me. Together, we’ve reflected on the learning lessons, wins, and everything in between. But this year, I’m doing things differently. I’m recording this solo, and with that comes a new perspective. This year has been transformational, and I feel called to reflect on it from a deeply personal place. I invite you to join me in looking back at the growth—both messy and beautiful—that this year has brought.---Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault. The doors are currently closed for The Planner's Vault, but join the wait list now so you can be the first to know when the doors re-open.Weddings for Real on Social Media:Instagram: @weddingsforrealFacebook: @weddingsforrealtwitter: @weddingsforrealHosted by Megan Gillikin, Weddings for Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Earfluence.

Have you ever hit a wall? And I don't mean just a bad day, but a full on stop, like your body and your mind are just done if you've been there? Well today's episode is all about how you can tap into your energy while avoiding a complete stop burnout.-----Connect with Erin King:Take the Energy Exam: https://info.theenergyexam.com/a/2147929576/eLXvc2XLInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrs.erin.king/Website: https://erinking.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrserinking/------(00:02:47) Collapsing on a Zoom Meeting and Waking Up in the ER(00:06:11) Study: "When you think about a leader that you think is successful, what is it about them that makes them so successful?"(00:11:46) DUH Method to Maximize Energy(00:15:44) What Happens When You Feel Like You Don't Have Control of Your Life(00:19:33) The 5 Energy Types(00:24:08) Energy Preservation through Processing and Recharging(00:31:55) What We Can Learn from Big Energy Beings(00:42:35) Energy DNA Report for Relationship Compatibility---Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault. The doors are currently closed for The Planner's Vault, but join the wait list now so you can be the first to know when the doors re-open.Weddings for Real on Social Media:Instagram: @weddingsforrealFacebook: @weddingsforrealtwitter: @weddingsforrealHosted by Megan Gillikin, Weddings for Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Earfluence.

As business owners, we’ve all been there—those million ideas a minute, right? Some of them make it through the "friends and family board of directors," and then we decide, let’s go for it! But here’s the thing: have you ever had an idea that felt amazing at first, only to later ask yourself, What the heck am I doing?Maybe you’ve poured time, energy, and resources into something you were sure would be a game changer, only to realize it wasn’t going to make the money you hoped—or maybe it didn’t quite fit the life you want to build. Yeah… same.But here’s the deal: it’s ok to stop. It’s ok to pivot. In fact, it’s necessary sometimes. And if you’re sitting there thinking, But pivoting feels like failure, trust me—you’re going to see things differently by the end of this episode.-----Connect with Jess Ekstrom:JessEkstrom.comMic Drop Workshop: https://micdropworkshop.com/Amplify with Jess Ekstrom Podcast: https://micdropworkshop.com/amplify-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess_ekstrom/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-ekstrom-speaker-author/Text HYPE to 704-228-9495------(00:03:10) NOT writing down ideas?(00:06:52) I used to be heavy into journaling...(00:09:40) What is your low stakes playground?(00:15:00) The $300K investment that Jess gave back(00:20:00) The partnership that Megan backed out of last minute(00:23:50) Making decisions for tomorrow(00:32:00) 5 year goals? 10 year goals? Nope. 100 year goals!---Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault. The doors are currently closed for The Planner's Vault, but join the wait list now so you can be the first to know when the doors re-open.Weddings for Real on Social Media:Instagram: @weddingsforrealFacebook: @weddingsforrealtwitter: @weddingsforrealHosted by Megan Gillikin, Weddings for Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Earfluence.

Last week, we gathered with 14 incredible members of The Planner’s Vault at our latest Workation retreat, held in a stunning lakeside home near Charlotte, North Carolina. As always, I was joined by my COO, confidante, and “work wife,” Gina, to lead our community through three transformative days of business-building, personal growth, and focus.In this special live-recorded episode, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look (and listen!) into the retreat as we answer questions straight from our members on everything from growing a team to tackling current challenges in the wedding industry, and even knowing when it might be time for a big pivot in your business.So, grab a glass and listen along as we dive into an AMA that’s full of practical insights, candid conversations, and a few background wine clinks.In this episode, we discuss:Key strategies for growing and supporting your teamHow to own and thrive in your unique “zone of genius”Identifying and addressing common challenges from wedding clientsKnowing when to make major shifts in your business-----(00:02:39) How can we be the best bosses ever so that our team loves being on our team forever?(00:07:07) What are you seeing are the biggest challenges from couples getting married right now, and how can we as planners best serve those concerns and their pain points?(00:09:14) At what point did you decide to sell your business and go into coaching full time? Was that something you always had as an eventual exit strategy or did something else happen that kind of prompted that for you?(00:13:05)  What is the shift that needs to happen to take a business that has reached multiple six figures in revenue and has the team in place to scaling beyond that?(00:16:52) When you were running your business as a wedding planner, what was your weakness and how did you lean into it and eventually grow from it?(00:19:10) If you were to start your coaching business again, what is one thing you would do the same, and what is one thing that you would do differently?---Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault. The doors are currently closed for The Planner's Vault, but join the wait list now so you can be the first to know when the doors re-open.Weddings for Real on Social Media:Instagram: @weddingsforrealFacebook: @weddingsforrealtwitter: @weddingsforrealHosted by Megan Gillikin, Weddings for Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Earfluence.

Clients don't just want great service. They value and prioritize experiences that stand out, that feel personalized, and that make them superfans of a brand or business.  So how can you create unforgettable experiences that your clients will rave about to their friends? Today, Megan and Gina share some memorable experiences from the consumer side, and they share their tips on how it all relates to wedding pros.----Links Mentioned:Time-Saving Client Questionnaire Bundle: https://www.theplannersvault.com/shop/p/time-saving-questionnaire-bundleThe Planner's Vault Client Experience Bundle: https://www.theplannersvault.com/shop/p/client-experience-bundleWhat to Gift Your Couples and Vendors: https://www.theplannersvault.com/blog/what-should-a-wedding-planner-gift-to-couplesThe Planner's Vault Discovery Call Guide:  https://www.theplannersvault.com/shop/p/effortless-consultations-a-6-step-framework-for-booking-dream-clientsa'Verde Cocina + Tequila Library: https://www.averdecary.com/Midtown Pediatric Dentistry: https://www.midtownkidsdentist.com/Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect: https://www.amazon.com/Unreasonable-Hospitality-Remarkable-Giving-People/dp/0593418573/Giftology: The Art and Science of Using Gifts to Cut Through the Noise, Increase Referrals, and Strengthen Retention: https://www.amazon.com/Giftology-Increase-Referrals-Strengthen-Retention/dp/1619614332-----(00:02:23) Elevating Client Experiences for Loyal Customers(00:05:21) First Impressions at the New Vet(00:13:55) Why Megan's daughter cried when she COULDN'T go to the Dentist!(00:23:45)  Flaming Churros, Boomboxes, Orange Juice Spray, and SHOTS!(00:27:58) Personalized Wedding Thank-You - One Easy but Special Gift---Today's episode is brought to you by The Planner's Vault. The doors are currently closed for The Planner's Vault, but join the wait list now so you can be the first to know when the doors re-open.Weddings for Real on Social Media:Instagram: @weddingsforrealFacebook: @weddingsforrealtwitter: @weddingsforrealHosted by Megan Gillikin, Weddings for Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Earfluence.