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.linkedin.com/company/inclusiveweddingsummit/ To exhibit or become a sponsor,  email brenda@elegantbridal.com or call/text Brenda at 201-405-4212If you have a wedding business audieLearn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com 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/Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. 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 can you embrace change?Change is inevitable, but how do you handle it? Do you fear the unknown or see it as an opportunity? In this episode, I dive into the psychology of change resistance and offer strategies to not only accept change but to thrive in it. What steps can you take today to make change your ally in business?Listen to this new 12-minute episode for insights on how to handle change effectively and transform it into a motor for growth and opportunity in your wedding business.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I delve into the topic of embracing change, especially within the realm of sales training. I share insights from a recent training session and discuss why people naturally resist change, even when it's beneficial. You'll hear about the importance of quickly responding to inquiries to boost engagement and how incremental improvements can make a significant difference, even for well-performing businesses. I also touch on the risks and rewards of change, both in marketing strategies and personal career choices. This episode is packed with valuable advice for anyone looking to become more adaptable and effective in their professional lives.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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com 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/Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. 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

Don Mamone - Understanding Gender today and in the future!Are your assumptions about others hindering genuine connections? How can you shift from judgment to curiosity to learn more about those around you? In this episode, Don Mamone and I dive into understanding gender, inclusivity, and breaking away from biases rooted in personal experiences. Discover how to create welcoming environments and the significance of personal stories in reshaping societal expectations.Listen to this new episode for insights on fostering inclusivity, understanding diverse identities, and shifting perceptions through curiosity rather than judgment.Get Don’s new book: “Different Doesn't Mean Broken: Living Courageously Outside the Binary” https://amzn.to/3YuyqhJ Connect with Don:https://www.linkedin.com/in/donmamone/https://www.instagram.com/donmamone/https://www.facebook.com/donmamonehttps://www.tiktok.com/@donmamoneAbout Don: Don Mamone is a speaker, identity coach & consultant teaching audiences and clients how to reach their maximum potential & impact by discovering & embracing their true identity and supporting companies dedicated to safe spaces that support unapologetic authenticity.Episode Summary: In this episode of Wedding Business Solutions, I sit down with Don Mamone, a non-binary professional speaker and identity coach, to dive deep into the world of gender identity and inclusivity. Don shares their personal journey of coming out at 45 and the importance of approaching gender with curiosity instead of judgment. We explore the complexities of the LGBTQIA2S+ acronym and offer practical advice for wedding businesses to create more inclusive environments. Through our discussion, you'll hear personal anecdotes and professional insights that emphasize the need for understanding, continuous learning, and proactive inclusivity to foster acceptance and support within our industry. Join us for an eye-opening conversation that aims to make the wedding business a more welcoming place for everyone.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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website PLearn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. 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

Discover the unexpected perks of attending speaker conferences, even for seasoned pros! Explore how these events can enhance your skills and introduce you to innovative tools like AI. Hear inspiring stories about personal growth and the meaningful connections formed in these settings. Challenge preconceived notions about the costs of attending and learn why investing in yourself can yield incredible long-term benefits. It's time to reassess the value of community engagement for your professional development!

Who are you ghosting?Have you ever stopped to think about the people you're ghosting in your inbox? Why do we let certain conversations slip while juggling our daily priorities? In this episode, I dive into the notion that we all ghost someone, not out of disinterest, but because other things take precedence. Could there be a parallel in how your potential clients are ghosting you? Let's explore the reasons behind professional ghosting and how to stay top of mind.Listen to this new 5-minute episode for fresh insights on managing your follow-ups and understanding the true dynamics behind being ghosted.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I delve into the concept of ghosting, not just from a client perspective but from our own as well. I've come to the realization that all of us are ghosting someone, whether intentionally or unintentionally, due to prioritizing other tasks and life's demands. I discuss how effective follow-ups can help you reposition yourself at the top of someone's inbox, increasing your chances of getting a response. I emphasize that ghosting doesn't necessarily mean disinterest and encourage you to reconsider your own communication habits. This episode aims to provide you with valuable insights to enhance your client interactions and follow-up strategies.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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com 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/Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. 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

Ryan Angott & Regine Regencia - Myths and Truths about Virtual AssistantsAre you struggling to find the right fit for your team? Have you considered the impact of language and local dialects on sales? In this episode, we dive into the world of virtual assistants, discussing how to identify the perfect candidate for your business needs. Learn how technology like ChatGPT can help virtual staff emulate local communication styles, making them feel like an integral part of your team. Are you leveraging VAs to not only save costs but also enhance productivity? We explore the importance of clearly delegating tasks and trusting your virtual staff to execute them efficiently.Listen to this new episode for insights on maximizing business efficiency with virtual staff and understanding the value they can add to your operations.About Ryan Angott:Ryan Angott is a seasoned professional with a decade-long journey in the wedding and event industry. With a wealth of experience and a track record of generating over $50 million in revenue, Ryan brings unparalleled insights into the intricacies of the industry as he transitioned and co-founded a virtual assistant staffing agency based in the Philippines. Connect with Ryan directly at Ryan@strategic-assistant.com  or explore the world of virtual assistant services for weddings at https://strategic-assistant.com/wedding-services/  About Regine: Regine, CEO & President of Strategic Assistant Staffing, brings a decade of expertise in virtual assistance. She helps entrepreneurs reclaim 20-30 hours weekly, redefining the virtual workforce from hiring one Virtual Staff to building dream teams. A Christian business leader, devoted mother, and advocate for women, she empowers others to achieve work-life balance while ensuring exceptional service for clients and virtual staff.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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com 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  aLearn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. 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

That time the wedding company wouldn't get on the phone!Are you meeting your customers where they are, or are you frustrating them with rigid communication methods? In this episode, I share a recent personal experience from my son’s wedding planning drama, and we explore the importance of adapting to your clients' preferred communication channels. How can refusing to get on the phone with eager customers impact your business? What steps can you take to ensure you're not missing out on potential sales because you're not accommodating?Listen to this new 9-minute episode for key insights on adapting your communication strategies to better meet your customers’ needs and grow your business.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I share a personal story about my son and future daughter-in-law's frustrating experience while planning their wedding. They tried to rent items from a local company but were denied the chance to speak with a representative over the phone. This led me to highlight the importance of meeting customers where they are, whether that means talking over the phone or communicating digitally. I discuss the challenges and missed opportunities businesses face when they fail to adapt to customer preferences. This episode serves as a crucial lesson for wedding professionals on improving customer interactions and sales strategies by accommodating different communication 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com 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/Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. 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

So, my son got married. Want to hear the story? Are you easily accessible to your clients? Are you ensuring seamless communication to prevent day-of issues? In this episode, I share the story of my son's wedding and highlight crucial lessons about the importance of communication and responsiveness in the wedding business. Listen to this new 13-minute episode for insights on improving your client communication and handling unexpected challenges during events. Episode Summary:  In this heartfelt episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I share the story of my son Adam's unique wedding in San Francisco. Unlike traditional ceremonies, this wedding spanned multiple days and featured intimate gatherings, a City Hall ceremony, and memorable activities like a cable car ride and a Hornblower dinner cruise. I highlight noteworthy experiences, both positive and challenging, such as vendor communication issues and special touches like custom whiskey blends. Through this personal recount, I draw valuable lessons on the importance of effective communication and customer service in the wedding industry. Don't miss out on this insightful and inspiring episode! 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com 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/ Learn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. 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

Irene Katzias - How vendors can play nice togetherAre you fostering trust through effective communication in your professional relationships? Are you prioritizing helping others over personal gain when networking? In this episode, we dive into the essentials of communication, respect, and aiding fellow vendors to create lasting bonds and smooth events. We'll explore practical ways to enhance your professional networks through proactive collaboration and kindness, reflecting on real-life anecdotes that underscore the impact of these values.Listen to this new episode for insights on building stronger, more respectful professional relationships by focusing on clear communication and a giving mentality.About Irene: Irene Katzias is the owner of Irene + Co Events, an award-winning wedding planning and design company known for crafting bespoke, high-end weddings across the U.S. With over a decade of experience, Irene’s work has been featured on The Knot, Utah Bride and Groom Magazine, and Zion Brides. A TEDx speaker and host of the Peak Perfection podcast on Spotify, Irene brings her signature blend of creativity, confidence, and approachability to every event, helping couples tell their unique love stories—one detail at a time.Contact: Website: www.irenecoevents.comEmail: irenecoevents@gmail.com Instagram: @irenecoevents Episode Summary:In this episode of "Wedding Business Solutions," I sit down with Irene Katzias from Irene and Co Events to dive into the importance of communication and respect in professional networking. We discuss how offering help rather than seeking personal gain builds trust and strong relationships. Irene shares her team’s approach of prioritizing teamwork, being the first to arrive and last to leave, and tackling every task with a collective spirit. We also address common vendor complaints, emphasizing the need for clear communication and collaboration. Irene's closing words, "Just be kind. You'll be fine," perfectly capture the essence of our conversation.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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com 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 wLearn how to be more inclusive with your marketing at the Inclusive Wedding Summit, January 22, 2025, attend in-person or virutually. Use the coupon code AB50 to save $50 off your tickets at www.InclusiveWeddingSummit.com 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 Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. 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