Is 2024 The Perfect Storm Trifecta?

Don't make resolutions, take actions!Are your New Year's resolutions setting you up for success or failure? Can you break down your goals into actionable steps? In this episode, I discuss shifting from making resolutions to taking focused actions that drive real results. Learn how to prioritize tasks and turn aspirations into daily habits that stick.Listen to this new 9-minute episode for strategies on making realistic goals, breaking them into achievable steps, and building consistency for lasting success.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I emphasize the importance of taking actionable steps over merely making resolutions. I share personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to prioritize and achieve goals in both business and personal life. I recount my experience at the National Speakers Association conference, where I learned to focus on a few impactful goals rather than being overwhelmed by many. I discuss the value of creating habits, like my daily language lessons, and encourage you to make realistic, manageable changes that can lead to long-term success. Join me for insights into goal setting, prioritization, and consistency for a prosperous New Year.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/Attend the first ever Inclusive Wedding Summit, in person or remotely, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025Get info and your tickets here: https://inclusiveweddingsummit.com/ - use coupon code AB30 to save $30And I'm doing a 1/2 Mastermind Jan. 23rd https://events.humanitix.com/business-of-weddings-workshop I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2024 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

Is the art of networking lost on Gen Y and Gen Z?Are the younger generations missing out on the benefits of traditional networking, or are they just doing it differently? How can we bridge the gap between generations in professional associations and networking groups? In this episode, I explore these questions and discuss how new approaches to networking can benefit us all, regardless of age.Listen to this new 7-minute episode for insights on how to successfully network with Gen Y and Gen Z and how to make networking more relational than transactional.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I dive into the question, "Is the art of networking lost on Gen Y and Gen Z?" Contrary to popular belief, I don't think it's lost; it's just different. I explore how younger generations are still actively networking through social media and online platforms. I emphasize the importance of adapting to their methods and fostering relationships based on value, rather than making them purely transactional. I also share insights on involving younger professionals in leadership roles and understanding their needs to create meaningful connections across generations. Tune in for some valuable networking strategies and tips on cross-generational collaboration.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/Attend the first ever Inclusive Wedding Summit, in person or remotely, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025Get info and your tickets here: https://inclusiveweddingsummit.com/ - use coupon code AB30 to save $30And I'm doing a 1/2 Mastermind Jan. 23rd https://events.humanitix.com/business-of-weddings-workshop I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2024 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

Elizabeth Solaru - How to start and build a luxury brand!Are you struggling to connect with luxury clients? Do you know how to position your offerings to make mid-range options more appealing? In this episode, Elizabeth Solaru and I dive deep into the art of targeting luxury clients, pricing strategies, and effective networking techniques. Learn how to use unusual marketing strategies to align your brand with top-tier clients, and find out why it's crucial to understand your target audience beyond generic customer avatars.Listen to this new episode for insights on strategic product positioning, networking for high-end markets, and leveraging luxury branding to attract the right clients.About Elizabeth: Elizabeth Solaru is a multi award-winning luxury business consultant, author, and world renowned cake artist. As the CEO and Founder of the Diversity in Luxury Awards, she is a pioneering voice advocating for inclusivity and representation in the luxury sector.Her latest book, The Luxpreneur: How to Start and Build a Successful Luxury Brand has been described as  "the blueprint for a luxury business" and a "must read for those interested in working in the luxury industry"Elizabeth has been named as one of the world's Masterful 100 and has been featured on the BBC, Channel 4 and Sky TV. She has spoken in business schools and on some of the most exclusive luxury business stages, including JP Morgan and The Inner Circle Experience.In addition to her consulting work, Elizabeth is passionate about mentorship and is dedicated to empowering the next generation of luxury professionals. Get Elizabeth’s book “The Luxpreneur” here: tinyurl.com/yeert22u SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS Instagram @elizabethscakeemporium Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-solaru-1ba901/If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difAttend the first ever Inclusive Wedding Summit, in person or remotely, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025Get info and your tickets here: https://inclusiveweddingsummit.com/ - use coupon code AB30 to save $30And I'm doing a 1/2 Mastermind Jan. 23rd https://events.humanitix.com/business-of-weddings-workshop I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2024 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

Are you focused on sales or profits?Are you caught up in the race to increase sales, or are you strategically focusing on boosting your profits? In this episode, I dive into the importance of understanding the difference between sales and profits. What are the true costs of your services? Are you maximizing profitability on high-demand dates? How can you ensure every dollar contributes to your bottom line? Find out how to shift your mindset from merely keeping the lights on to truly paying yourself first.Listen to this new 10-minute episode for insights on optimizing your profitability and strategic tips for making the most of every sale.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I delve into the crucial distinction between focusing on sales versus profits within your business. Drawing from my own experiences and lessons from the book Profit First by Mike Michalowicz, I emphasize the importance of prioritizing profitability over sheer sales volume. I discuss how raising prices strategically, especially on high-demand dates, and offering top-tier packages can significantly boost profits. I also highlight the impact of ancillary services and upgrades on your bottom line. This insightful episode is essential listening if you're aiming to maximize profitability without sacrificing quality or overextending your resources.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/Attend the first ever Inclusive Wedding Summit, in person or remotely, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025Get info and your tickets here: https://inclusiveweddingsummit.com/ - use coupon code AB30 to save $30And I'm doing a 1/2 Mastermind Jan. 23rd https://events.humanitix.com/business-of-weddings-workshop I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2024 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

Are you ready for engagement season?Engagement season has kicked off—are you prepared? Do your profiles have recent reviews, and are your photos up to date? How about your website's content? In this episode, Alan Berg outlines a checklist to ensure you're ready to capture the influx of newly engaged couples. Don't let outdated information cost you potential clients. Learn how to present your recent successes, stay current, and keep your first impression fresh and attractive.Listen to this new 10-minute episode for strategies on updating your online presence and maximizing your engagement season opportunities.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/Attend the first ever Inclusive Wedding Summit, in person or remotely, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025Get info and your tickets here: https://inclusiveweddingsummit.com/ - use coupon code AB30 to save $30And I'm doing a 1/2 Mastermind Jan. 23rd https://events.humanitix.com/business-of-weddings-workshop I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2024 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

Beth Sherman - We laughed, we cried... oh yeah, it was the wedding speech!How do you navigate the art of wedding speeches to ensure they are memorable and engaging? Are your speeches concise and filled with genuine details? Do you know how to incorporate humor effectively without alienating your audience? In this episode, we explore the importance of creating personal connections through storytelling and how to set speakers up for success by considering factors like positioning and mic handling. Dive into practical tips on making every word count and keeping your audience captivated.Listen to this new episode for insights on crafting authentic, humorous, and impactful wedding speeches while ensuring inclusivity and emotional connection.About Beth: Beth Sherman is a speaker, comedian, Emmy award-winning Hollywood comedy writer, YouTube personality, and founder of Authentically Funny Speeches, a service dedicated to helping wedding speakers successfully deliver heartfelt and funny toasts and speeches.Website:https://authenticallyfunnyspeeches.comYouTube channelhttps://youtube.com/@authenticallyfunnyspeeches LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-sherman Free Wedding Speech Writing Guide:https://authenticallyfunnyspeeches.com/pages/wedding-speech-guideIf you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does makAttend the first ever Inclusive Wedding Summit, in person or remotely, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025Get info and your tickets here: https://inclusiveweddingsummit.com/ - use coupon code AB30 to save $30And I'm doing a 1/2 Mastermind Jan. 23rd https://events.humanitix.com/business-of-weddings-workshop I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2024 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

Asking how much doesn't mean they can't afford you!Have you ever considered that when customers ask, “How much do you charge?” it might not be a red flag but rather a common starting point for a conversation? Are you missing out on business opportunities because you don't provide pricing information up front? In this episode, I explore the importance of transparency in your pricing strategy and how to make sure potential clients understand the value you offer.Listen to this new 13-minute episode for insights on structuring your pricing to attract the right clients while showcasing the value of your services.Episode Summary: In this episode of the "Wedding Business Solutions" podcast, I tackle a common concern that many wedding vendors face: potential clients asking, "How much do you charge?" I argue that this question doesn't necessarily mean they can't afford your services. Instead, it often reflects a lack of available price information. I dive into the importance of being transparent with your pricing to avoid losing potential clients who might assume your services are out of their reach. I share different pricing strategies, like full pricing, starting prices, and price ranges, and their effects on client inquiries. Ultimately, I emphasize that perceived value is key and that clients often go over their budgets for the results they truly desire. By better understanding and managing these inquiries, you can attract and retain the right clients.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/Attend the first ever Inclusive Wedding Summit, in person or remotely, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025Get info and your tickets here: https://inclusiveweddingsummit.com/ - use coupon code AB30 to save $30And I'm doing a 1/2 Mastermind Jan. 23rd https://events.humanitix.com/business-of-weddings-workshop I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2024 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

How do you get motivated?We all know there are things we need to do but sometimes don't feel like doing. Do you struggle with internal motivation or do you rely on external stimuli? In this episode, I dive into finding your driving force, the importance of pushing through resistance, and ways to stay accountable to your goals, whether personal or professional.Listen to this new 10-minute episode for practical tips on staying motivated, overcoming procrastination, and consistently achieving your objectives.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I dive into the topic of motivation, inspired by a touching birthday message I received. I explore the difference between self-motivation and needing external motivation, sharing personal stories from my sales career that highlight the power of perseverance. You'll hear about how I pushed through moments of low motivation and the strategies I've developed to stay driven, such as setting small, achievable goals and finding accountability partners. Whether you're facing daily challenges or working towards bigger aspirations, this episode offers practical advice to help you stay motivated and committed.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/Attend the first ever Inclusive Wedding Summit, in person or remotely, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025Get info and your tickets here: https://inclusiveweddingsummit.com/ - use coupon code AB30 to save $30And I'm doing a 1/2 Mastermind Jan. 23rd https://events.humanitix.com/business-of-weddings-workshop I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2024 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

Inclusive Wedding Summit - Brian Lawrence & Brenda FerrariniAbout the Inclusive Wedding Summit:On January 22, 2025, two seasoned trailblazers in the wedding world—Brian Lawrence, a celebrated author, speaker, and expert in web design and SEO, and Brenda Ferrarini, owner of Elegant Bridal Productions, one of the largest wedding show producers in the tri-state area—are joining forces to present the Inclusive Wedding Summit at the Hasbrouck Heights/Meadowlands Hilton in New Jersey.This isn’t just another industry event. It’s a bold, game-changing full-day experience designed to empower wedding professionals to move beyond surface-level inclusivity and truly connect with today’s diverse couples. From actionable strategies to elevate your marketing and websites to insightful sessions on leveraging AI and improving your visibility on Google, the summit delivers the tools to future-proof your business.But that’s not all—this summit dives deep into essential topics like creating welcoming experiences for same-sex couples, navigating the intricate beauty of South Asian and Jewish weddings, and making your services more accessible to differently abled couples.At a time when the wedding industry is undergoing a profound transformation, this event offers the opportunity to lead the way in inclusivity, authenticity, and growth. Don’t miss this chance to learn, grow, and position your business for the future of love in all its forms. In addition the event will have industry exhibitors, time for networking and included a full breakfast and lunch. Tune in as we explore what makes the Inclusive Wedding Summit a must-attend event and how it’s set to redefine the wedding industry!Websitehttps://inclusiveweddingsummit.com/ Facebook Page:https://www.facebook.com/inclusiveweddingsummit/ Instagram Page:https://www.instagram.com/inclusiveweddingsummit/ TikTok Page:https://www.tiktok.com/@inclusiveweddingsummit LinkedIn:https://www.linkeAttend the first ever Inclusive Wedding Summit, in person or remotely, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025Get info and your tickets here: https://inclusiveweddingsummit.com/ - use coupon code AB30 to save $30And I'm doing a 1/2 Mastermind Jan. 23rd https://events.humanitix.com/business-of-weddings-workshop I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2024 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

Market to your customer, not to yourself!Are you marketing through your own lens or to your target audience? Are you ensuring your advertising resonates with your ideal customers, or are you letting personal biases skew your strategy? This episode dives into the importance of focusing your marketing efforts on your audience's preferences rather than your own inclinations. Discover how to gather insights effectively and why adapting your message is critical to attract the right clients.Listen to this new 5-minute episode for strategies to fine-tune your marketing efforts and ensure they align perfectly with your target audience’s needs and interests.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I delve into the importance of marketing to your customer, not to yourself. Fresh from publishing From Browsing to Booking with Brian Lawrence, I share insights on how wedding professionals often fall into the trap of using their own tastes to guide their marketing strategies, which can lead to misguided efforts. I discuss how crucial it is to understand your target audience—whether they're Gen X, Millennials, or Gen Z—and shape your marketing to resonate with them. I also talk about my use of AI tools like ChatGPT to refine content for specific demographics and the ongoing process of validating marketing approaches through customer feedback and research. Tune in to learn practical tips for better aligning your marketing with your audience's needs and preferences.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at [email protected] or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/Attend the first ever Inclusive Wedding Summit, in person or remotely, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025Get info and your tickets here: https://inclusiveweddingsummit.com/ - use coupon code AB30 to save $30And I'm doing a 1/2 Mastermind Jan. 23rd https://events.humanitix.com/business-of-weddings-workshop I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is [email protected]. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2024 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com