The Wedding Biz &#8211; Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business

RESOURCESElvis Presley - "Can't Help Falling in Love"Al Green – "Let's Stay Together"Michael Costello's Website ALBINA DYLA - Website Galia Lahav - Website

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Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment & PartySlate.

400 DANIELA BRAGA: A Professional Model's Dream Wedding Feb 14, 2022

Show notes

Andy has a really fun interview planned for this episode – an interview with the highly successful Brazilian model Daniela Braga! Daniela is based out of New York City and has done campaigns for Givenchy, Balmain, Avon, Pantene, and so many others. She has been featured on the covers of various prestigious magazines such as Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Elle, V, Marie Claire, and Cosmopolitan in several countries such as the United States, Brazil, Italy, and France. And she has worked with several important photographers in the fashion industry. Daniela also walked four consecutive times in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. She was even cast for the TV show Model Squad on E! in 2018, and in addition to modeling, she is an ambassador for World of Children.

Andy actually had the pleasure of meeting Dany and her husband Adam Freede, as he, with his band Sound Connection, produced the music for their wedding ceremony and reception! She talks with Andy today about how a stranger's Gucci bag led to not only a friendship but also her marriage to her husband. She also chronicles how she got engaged and how Adam hired an event planner for the night that he proposed to her, how she went about deciding where to get married and how the COVID-19 pandemic affected her decision, and so forth. She also enthusiastically credits the various designers involved in her wedding and how much she loved her stunning wedding dress designed by Galia Lahav and describes her mini-honeymoon (or mini-moon).

Dany also touches upon Vogue having covered her wedding and if and when we might be able to expect that coverage to be published as well as what she looks forward to this year in 2022. Andy had so much fun talking with Daniela about her wedding and is appreciative of her time! Be sure to visit Dany's website and her social media platforms, and be sure to share this interview with at least three good friends and/or colleagues who might benefit from and/or enjoy it and to leave a top review of the podcast wherever you listen!

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!

Time Stamps

[0:30] – Andy reveals today's guest as Daniela Braga.

[1:49] – We start to learn how Dany met her husband Adam Freede.

[4:38] – Dany reveals how and when she started dating Adam.

[6:11] – Dany leads us up to the night that she got engaged.

[8:34] – Dany details how she got engaged.

[9:22] – The room where Dany got engaged is described to us.

[11:10] – Dany reveals that Adam had a chef make Dany's favorite Brazilian dishes.

[12:45] – We discover that Adam had Dany's friends and family fly in when she got engaged.

[15:38] – Andy shifts the conversation toward whether or not Daniela felt any pressure about her wedding.

[17:20] – Dany describes the bachelorette party.

[19:24] – Dany addresses how she decided where to get married.

[22:20] – We learn about how France wasn't allowing Brazilians in and why.

[26:14] – Andy and Daniela discuss what Daniela envisioned for her wedding.

[28:22] – Learn why Dany chose "Can't Help Falling in Love" as the song to play as she walked down the aisle.

[29:35] – We begin to learn about how Dani chose her outfits.

[31:01] – Dany credits designers Michael Costello and ALBINA DYLA.

[33:56] – Dany enthuses over how much she loved her wedding dress.

[36:25] – Andy identifies Daniela's wedding dress designer as Galia Lahav.

[38:26] – Find out what song Dany and Adam did a tango dance to!

[39:34] – Dany elaborates upon her mini-moon.

[43:35] – Dany looks forward to the future and what 2022 might hold for her.

Find Dany:

Dany's Website Dany's Instagram Page Dany's Facebook Page Dany's Twitter Page

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The Academy by Christian Oth

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Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment.

399 REVISIT CHRISTIAN OTH: Innovative Wedding Photojournalism Feb 07, 2022

Show notes

On this episode of The Wedding Biz, Andy is having a conversation with Christian Oth. Listen as he discusses how he is dealing with the pandemic both personally and professionally, why he charges an upcharge for new contracts and a non-refundable percentage if a client postpones. Christian also shares what he is doing now, including his newest workshops

Christian is an internationally renowned photographer. His experience in fashion, photojournalism, portraiture, advertising, and still life combines into an editorial style that makes Christian truly one of a kind. American Photo named him one of the world's ten best photographers, and his work has appeared in top fashion and wedding publications.

Listen as Christian shares what he is doing to stay grounded and in shape, since the pandemic began, and how it has affected him personally. Professionally, the pandemic has led to cancellations and postponements. However, he has been able to stay busy with Commercial and Advertising Photography.

Christian speaks about staying in touch with his clients and working with them to reschedule one-on-one. He talks about adding an upcharge to new contracts to help cover the cost and how he is now running a leaner and meaner company with a strong core team of employees and outsourcing what he can. Christian has also launched a workshop on photography and is looking forward to adding more specialized courses and, eventually, a business course to learn how to run a photography business.

Do you wish you could be a fly on the wall and listen to music industry pros? Then listen to Andy's new podcast, The Music Makers. It's behind-the-scenes stories from some of the most influential music industry pros around, including artists, recording engineers, record producers, songwriters, managers, record industry executives, and more. You can find The Music Makers podcast by searching for that term in your cell phone's podcast app or by going to www.themusicmakers.com.

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Become a patron and support Andy and the show: If you are so inspired: contribute.

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Show Highlights:

[02:51] Welcome back to the show, Christian!

[03:03] Christian speaks about how he uses video when doing calls because it is easier to connect with people.

[05:10] Christian shares that the last major job he did before the world shut down was a wedding in Egypt.

[07:57] Christian discusses leaving New York City for the Hamptons at the beginning of the pandemic.

[10:32] He speaks about returning to the city in April and riding a bike to help stay grounded and in shape.

[13:22] Christian talks about spending a lot of time biking with his son.

[15:29] Christian discusses the postponements and cancellations caused by the pandemic.

[17:45] Advertising photography is something Christian has always done, so he has been able to stay busy.

[19:13] Christian speaks about how he is keeping in contact with his clients as this crisis drags on.

[20:45] Christian discusses adding an upcharge on new contracts and how he pays the photographers on his team.

[22:42] Christian says that he runs his business lean and mean and has created a really strong core team and outsourced the rest.

[24:39] He shares that he has wanted to add workshops for a long time and launched them on October 26th.

[26:55] Christian speaks about what they will cover in the classes and what you need to bring to photoshoots.

[29:11] Next, he will have more specialized courses and then courses on the business side of being a photographer.

[30:31] Christian looks forward to traveling again once this crisis is over.

[31:16] Thank you for being on the show!

RESOURCES

Find Christian:

Christian Oth Studio

Oth Media Group

25 South Studio

Christian Oth Episode 74 on The Wedding Biz

Christian Oth Episode 223 on The Wedding Biz

@christianothstudio

Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

@christianoth

Instagram | Twitter

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www.KushnerEntertainment.com

Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.

Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment

398 HUGH HOWSER: Incorporating a Sense of Humor and a Sixth Sense Jan 31, 2022

Show notes

Hugh Howser, Director of Creative at H Three Events, joins Andy today to talk about his career as a wedding planner thus far. Hugh is Nashville's go-to expert for events and weddings for A-list celebrities such as actress Nicole Kidman and country superstars Wynonna, Reba McEntire, Jake Owen, George Strait, Martina McBride, Kenny Rogers, and more. He has been featured across the country on CMT, ABC, People, InStyle, USA Today, and Brides, offering his unique, fun approach as a lifestyle expert with his trademark style and sense of humor.

Hugh reflects a bit on his childhood and some of his earliest memories, such as how his grandmother loved to throw parties and how that affected him. He reveals his initial plans when going to college and how he made the big jump from pharmaceuticals to event planning. He also walks us through the usual process that he has with his clients, sharing that he feels that he has a sixth sense which allows him to envision what someone's wedding is going to look like after talking with them for only fifteen minutes or so!

He also touches upon challenges that he has had to overcome in the industry, especially with the weather being unpredictable in Tennessee, and how he overcame them, crediting his sense of humor being the key to his success in overcoming them. He also expresses his gratitude toward his business partner Kate Steele for handling the business side of the company, highlighting how their partnership works and how each of their hats aren't ever exchanged. Hugh even briefly touches upon his side gig as a stand-up comedian!

Andy loves Hugh's work and had a blast taking some time with Hugh to unpack some of what he does in the industry. He really hopes that you enjoy listening to the conversation as much as he enjoyed conducting it. Be sure to visit Hugh's website and his social media platforms, and also be sure to share this interview with at least three good friends and/or colleagues who might benefit from and/or enjoy it and to leave a top review of the podcast wherever you listen!

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!

Time Stamps

[0:36] – Andy reveals that this episode's guest is Hugh Howser.

[1:26] – Hugh discusses how he knows Mark Wright.

[3:18] – Hugh reflects on his grandmother and how she loved to throw parties.

[6:21] – Hugh talks about how his career path switched from pharmaceuticals to event planning.

[8:06] – We learn about Hugh's general process with his clients.

[9:05] – Hugh highlights what he believes the secret of the business is.

[10:53] – Hugh describes what his favorite kind of wedding is to plan.

[13:44] – Hugh shares with us where he gets his sparks of inspiration.

[16:36] – Andy and Hugh talk about the weddings that Hugh has done for celebrities.

[17:28] – Hugh gives examples of challenges, especially regarding weather, that he has had to overcome.

[20:08] – Hugh expresses gratitude to his business partner Kate Steele for handling the bills.

[20:42] – We learn more about the dynamic that Hugh has with Kate.

[22:11] – Hugh reveals how he started his company.

[25:05] – We discover what the hardest part of Hugh's job is right now.

[28:07] – Hugh projects toward the future and what's next on the horizon.

[29:09] – Hugh details his role as a comedian and what his content tends to be.

[31:12] – Andy tells us where we can find Hugh online.

RESOURCES

The Music Makers Episode 39 Mark Wright: Hit Producer & Songwriter Kate Steele's Instagram Page

Find Hugh:

H Three Events - Website

H Three Events - Instagram Page Hugh's Instagram Page

Follow The Wedding Biz on Social:

Ischia Wedding on a 270 Foot Yacht Video Halloween Wedding at Angel Orensanz, NY Video Lake Como Wedding at Villa del Balbianello Video Maroo – Website Maroo – Instagram Page The Wedding Biz Episode 351 REVISIT: DAVID BEAHM: Risk & Synchronicity

Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.

Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment & PartySlate.

397 ANNIE LEE: Overcoming Challenges as the Daughter of Design Jan 24, 2022

Show notes

Annie Lee, the principal planner of Daughter of Design, joins Andy in this episode of The Wedding Biz to reflect on her career and her accomplishments, of which there are many! In addition to being the principal planner of Daughter of Design, Annie is the author of Learn to Speak Wedding: Flashcards for Beginners and the founder of Plannie, a global platform to hire an event planner by the hour. Daughter of Design has been named as a top planner by Harper's Bazaar, The Knot, Martha Stewart, Brides, and PartySlate, and Annie has come to be known by various names such as "The Wedding Doctor" by Refinery29, "Party Planner" by New York Magazine, "Celebrity Entertaining Expert" by People Magazine, and more! She even has the honor of being named one of only five Women of Style by Modern Luxury Miami!

Annie actually started her career in marketing by interning with San Francisco Opera, and she enthusiastically reveals that that is where her love for events comes from. Her family also does interior design, so she grew up around design which she later married to her love for events. She walks us through her story and how she came to found Daughter of Design, highlighting some of her favorite moments of her career so far and describing her signature style. She also talks about how her major in History plays a role in her event designing career and her attention to detail.

Touching upon her business having plummeted a bit back in 2016, Annie also addresses a lot of the challenges that she has faced over the course of her career so far and the life lessons that resulted from them. She talks about several changes that she has had to put in place over the years and how she thrives on growth and evolution. Andy had such a great time talking with Annie and really appreciates her time, and he hopes that you enjoy listening to the conversation. Be sure to visit Annie's website and her social media platforms, and also be sure to share this interview with at least three good friends and/or colleagues who might benefit from and/or enjoy it and to leave a top review of the podcast wherever you listen!

Andy would also like to encourage you to check out a special offer from Annie's company Plannie to industry professionals looking for a day-of producer for their events! Receive the first hour free, and anyone looking to connect with a planner for hourly consultations receives a 25% discount on the first three hours! Plannie is particularly useful with destination event local help! Just be sure to mention The Wedding Biz!

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!

Time Stamps

[0:40] – Andy announces Annie Lee of Daughter of Design as this episode's guest.

[2:01] – Annie reflects on where her love for events comes from.

[4:25] – Annie reveals why she moved to New York City.

[6:35] – We learn about one of Annie's favorite moments from her career.

[8:23] – Annie details how she started full-time in 2008 during an economic recession.

[10:38] – Learn how Annie's background in History benefited her during the 2008 recession.

[13:33] – Annie walks us through her typical process with her clients.

[17:52] – Annie identifies managing clients' expectations as the most challenging part of her job.

[20:48] – Annie comments on the life lessons that she learns from challenges.

[22:52] – Annie tells us about having lost a lot of business several years ago and makes guesses as to why.

[24:15] – We discover how Annie overcame her business suffering a bit a few years ago.

[27:24] – Annie argues that most wedding planners are not compensated fairly.

[28:52] – Learn why Annie only charges hourly now.

[31:35] – Annie addresses using Maroo.

[34:22] – Andy and Annie discuss planners and clients sharing responsibility when an event needs to be canceled.

[37:14] – Annie asserts that evolving and changing is a necessity for her.

[39:26] – Learn where to find Annie online.

RESOURCES

Find Annie:

Daughter of Design - Website Daughter of Design - Instagram Page Plannie – Website Plannie – Instagram Page Speak Wedding: Flashcards for Beginners Speak Wedding – Instagram Page

Follow The Wedding Biz on Social:

The Wedding Biz Episode 121 JULIE NOVACK: PartySlate & Building A Venture-Capital Backed Business

Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.

Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment & PartySlate.

396 TOM KEHOE: How a Driving Gig Became a Designing Empire Jan 17, 2022

Show notes

Andy welcomes you to join him in this episode of The Wedding Biz as he interviews Tom Kehoe, the C.E.O. of Kehoe Designs! Kehoe Designs is a full-service event design and decor company specializing in social and corporate events including but not limited to private parties, luxury weddings, fundraisers, trade shows, product launches, festivals, and retail grand openings. Tom is also the owner of the events venue The Geraghty and BlackOak Technical Productions, and he was awarded top 50 event designers by BizBash in 2019 (along with other recognitions)!

Tom shares his story with Andy, revealing that he was only sixteen years old when he started working in floral, initially as a driver for a flower shop and then eventually in the store itself. He then, a couple of years later, attended Florida International University where he double majored in Business and Hospitality Management, initially believing that he wanted to own a hotel. Soon after graduating, however, life took an unexpected turn when he was offered the shop where he worked as a teenager! That shop ultimately took the form of the empire that he has now, and the rest is history!

Tom walks us through the process that tends to go down between him and his wedding clientele, describing the process as a fun one which he considers key. He also shares some memorable events that he has designed for, including one in which he used projected lighting to make Lake Michigan appear to change color! He shares how he handles stress and anxiety and how he balances the creative side of his job with the business side of his job, and he also enthusiastically reveals that he loves constant change and that that is how he stays relevant in an industry that changes every day.

Tom had actually never been interviewed on any podcast prior to this one, so Andy is so thankful that he took the time to have a guest spot on The Wedding Biz and chat with him. He is also appreciative of Julie Novack, C.E.O. of PartySlate, for referring Andy to Tom. Be sure to visit Tom's website and his social media platforms, and also be sure to share this interview with at least three good friends and/or colleagues who might benefit from and/or enjoy it and to leave a top review of the podcast wherever you listen!

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!

Time Stamps

[0:42] – Today's guest is revealed to be Tom Kehoe of Kehoe Designs.

[1:50] – We discover that Tom started his floral career when he was only sixteen years old!

[4:17] – Tom reveals that when he went to college, he thought that he wanted to own a hotel.

[5:02] – We learn how Tom came to buy out the flower shop where he worked as a teenager.

[6:53] – Tom discloses that he has never had any partners but has a great team.

[9:13] – Tom walks us through the usual process with his wedding clientele.

[11:27] – We hear Tom expound upon when his visions for design tend to come to him.

[14:32] – Tom shares a story of a favorite wedding event.

[17:12] – Tom details an event where colored lighting was projected onto Lake Michigan.

[19:36] – We discover whether or not Tom handles galas differently than he does weddings.

[22:35] – Tom discusses fear and anxiety around what he does.

[24:32] – Tom gives a recent example of a challenge that he had to overcome.

[27:53] – We are told how Tom handles the challenge of balancing creativity with business.

[30:04] – Andy and Tom discuss how eye-opening it is to track the time and the money that goes into the job.

[32:01] – Tom reveals that his love for change is how he stays relevant.

[35:03] – Learn where to reach out to Tom!

RESOURCES

The Wedding Biz Episode 373 JULIE NOVACK: Optimizing Your Digital Footprint

PartySlate - Website

Find Tom:

Kehoe Designs - Website Kehoe Designs - Facebook Page Kehoe Designs - Twitter Page Kehoe Designs - Instagram Page Kehoe Designs - Pinterest Profile Kehoe Designs - YouTube Channel The Geraghty - Website BlackOak Technical Productions - Website

Follow The Wedding Biz on Social:

Marcia Selden Catering - Website Marcia Selden Catering - Facebook Page Marcia Selden Catering - Instagram Page Robin's Instagram Page Jeffrey's Instagram Page

Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.

Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment & PartySlate.

395 ROBIN AND JEFFREY SELDEN: Continuing a Legacy Jan 10, 2022

Show notes

Welcome to 2022! Kicking off the new year is a great interview with not one but two guests – siblings Robin Selden and Jeffrey Selden of Marcia Selden Catering, with Robin a managing partner and the executive chef and Jeffrey a managing director and managing partner. With offices in Connecticut and New York City, Marcia Selden Catering holds the esteemed honor of being the first ever catering company to be inducted into the Restaurant Association's Hall of Fame, and they were also named to The Knot Weddings Hall of Fame and best caterer and best of the Gold Coast by Moffly Media. Robin and Jeffrey were also both named two of the 100 most inspiring people in the wedding industry by The Knot and have also been the recipients of various other prestigious recognitions!

Robin and Jeffrey are siblings, the children of the founder of the company, Marcia Selden, and they both reflect on what that was like growing up. They elaborate upon how they each ended up deciding to join the family business and what distinguishes them from other companies in the industry. They also discuss various other aspects of the business such as how they handle stress and anxiety, how they market themselves via social media platforms, how they manage to stay relevant, what their hopes and objectives are for the future, and so much more!

Andy has run into Robin and Jeffrey on various occasions so is very appreciative of this conversation that he was able to have with them to get to know them a little bit better. Be sure to visit Marcia Selden Catering's website and social media handles, and until the next episode of The Wedding Biz, please be sure to share this interview with at least three good friends and/or colleagues who might also benefit from and/or enjoy it, and leave a review of the podcast wherever you listen!

Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? 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

[0:47] – Today's guests are revealed to be Robin Selden and Jeffrey Selden of Marcia Selden Catering.

[2:10] – Jeffrey reflects on their childhood and what it was like having Marcia Selden as their mother.

[3:15] – Robin discusses her mother having been a role model for her.

[5:08] – Robin shares when she knew that she wanted to go into this industry.

[6:49] – We learn that Jeffrey knew that he wanted to go into this industry at a very young age.

[9:07] – Robin outlines the process that they go through with clients.

[12:20] – Robin stresses the importance of their clientele getting to know them.

[15:15] – We learn more about Robin's and Jeffrey's social media platforms.

[17:58] – Jeffrey shares a story that is especially memorable for him.

[20:49] – Robin offers her own insight on memorable experiences with Marcia Selden Catering.

[21:36] – Robin comments upon how she and Jeffrey handle stress and anxiety.

[24:22] – We discover how Robin and Jeffrey were able to build on what their mother established.

[26:28] – Jeffrey shares insight regarding how they have stayed relevant in this industry.

[28:52] – Robin shares how she believes their company has stayed relevant.

[30:54] – Jeffrey discusses research and development.

[32:53] – We learn that Robin loves being challenged by their clients.

[33:45] – Jeffrey reveals his goals and hopes for the future.

[36:22] – Andy reveals where we can find Robin and Jeffrey online.

Find Robin and Jeffrey:

Follow The Wedding Biz on Social:

Roy's Fish & Seafood Cookbook

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Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment & PartySlate.

394 REVISIT CHEF ROY YAMAGUCHI: Cuisine, Culture & Community Jan 03, 2022

Show notes

On today's episode, Andy shares with us the honor of sitting down with renowned chef Roy Yamaguchi, as he shares his story. Roy shares his experiences from coming to the United States for the first time to attend culinary school, starting his first restaurant in Los Angeles, and finally creating Roy's in Hawaii.

Listen in as Roy shares with Andy, as well as the rest of us, his passion, his mission, and his hopes for the future.

Show Highlights:

How HomeEc sparked Roy's culinary path
The moment he decided to commit to cooking and pursue Culinary school in America
Roy shares his first experience of New York compared to living in Japan
The reason Roy went with his gut on opening his restaurant in Hawaii, when everyone told him not to
What Roy took away from Cheers and the influence that played in creating his restaurant
Roy shares the value of having a team and the importance of everyone having a voice
Why sometimes you've got to let ideas marinate
The difference in what makes a great Chef versus what makes a great Cook
How social media has helped Roy personalize his guests' dining experience
How Roy manages to balance his work and personal life

Resources:

Roy Yamaguchi

Roy's Story

Roy's Feasts from Hawaii Cookbook

Roy's Hawaii Cooks Cookbook

Roy's Twitter

Roy's Facebook

393 AJ WILLIAMS: What Success Means in the Wedding and Galas Industry Dec 20, 2021

Show notes

Joining Andy in this episode of The Wedding Biz is AJ Williams, founder and executive producer of the Boston-based AJ Events. AJ has been named BizBash's top event producer of the year and also made the BizBash 500 most influential professionals list. Every year since 2003, she has made the Boston Business Journal's area's top meeting and event planning companies list, has made Boston Herald's top 10 event planners, and so much more! AJ has also worked with a number of celebrities and well known people such as Jennifer Hudson; Earth, Wind, and Fire; Queen Latifah; President Bill Clinton; The Eagles; etc.!

AJ has always loved parties and planning for them. She talks about her gig working for a celebrity chef and how that led to her starting AJ Events, details the usual process between herself and her clients, explains how she deals with nerves and anxiety around her job, and reflects upon the COVID-19 pandemic and how AJ Events got through it and even flourished. She also explains what success means to her and gives advice to wedding planners who might want to dip into galas as well, emphasizing the importance of marketing, strategizing, and fundraising.

Andy really appreciates AJ's time and hopes that you enjoy listening to his conversation with her. Be sure to visit AJ's website, Instagram page, and Facebook page! Until the next episode of the podcast, please share this interview with at least three good friends and/or colleagues who might also benefit from and/or enjoy it, and leave a review of the podcast wherever you listen!

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!

Time Stamps

[1:09] – This episode's guest is revealed to be AJ Williams of AJ Events.

[2:37] – AJ reveals how she came to be interested in parties.

[3:27] – We learn how AJ came to form her own company.

[5:25] – AJ talks about her time working for a celebrity chef out of Boston.

[7:27] – AJ explains her formula and how it made her successful during the COVID-19 pandemic.

[8:50] – AJ walks us through the process that unfolds between her and a client.

[11:39] – Andy and AJ discuss strategy and branding assets.

[13:09] – We discover that event design, floral design, graphic design, and fundraising are all executed in-house at AJ Events.

[15:16] – AJ touches upon and explains hiring outside vendors.

[16:02] – AJ discloses that she does deal with anxiety and fear alongside her job.

[19:20] – We learn what the most challenging aspect of AJ's job is.

[21:01] – AJ reveals that her drive for success is what helps her balance business with art.

[23:31] – Andy and AJ agree upon the importance of interactiveness.

[24:33] – AJ describes her marketing strategy.

[25:29] – AJ discusses resilience and staying relevant in an industry always changing.

[28:25] – We are treated to tips and advice if we are looking to explore the galas industry.

[29:28] – AJ defines success.

[30:57] – Andy tells us where we can find AJ online.

RESOURCES

The Wedding Biz Episode 121 Julie Novack: PartySlate & Building A Venture-Capital Backed Business

The Wedding Biz Episode 373 JULIE NOVACK: Optimizing Your Digital Footprint

PartySlate - Website

Find AJ:

AJ Events - Website

AJ Events - Instagram Page

AJ Events - Facebook Page

Follow The Wedding Biz on Social:

Ryan Holiday – The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph

Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.

Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment & PartySlate.

392 MEG SMITH: Photography As A Life's Work Dec 13, 2021

Show notes

Meg Smith of Meg Smith Photography joins Andy in this episode to talk about her photography! Meg has done photography for celebrity weddings such as those of Anne Hathaway, Jimmy Kimmel, Governor of California Gavin Newsom, LeAnn Rimes, and the late Robin Williams. She has also photographed engagements for Christina Aguilera and Nicole Richie. Meg is a frequent contributor to Martha Stewart Weddings, Town & Country, and InStyle Magazine, and her photographs have also been featured in many other publications such as The New York Times, Vogue, and Glamour. Her images have also graced covers and been featured in books including, but not limited to, InStyle Weddings and Vera Wang on Weddings!

Meg dives into so many interesting topics such as how, early in her career, she photographed riots and protests such as the Gulf War riots and Take Back the Night. She discusses how she really wanted to be a part of history in those ways and how they are examples of photography being found rather than created, as she is interested in authenticity and integrity. She also talks about framing and lighting, what the most difficult part of her job is, how she handles nerves, the importance of knowing who you are and finding contentment, and so much more!

Andy had such a fun time talking to Meg about all things her photography and appreciates her willingness to be so open and vulnerable in this interview. He really hopes that you also enjoy your time listening to the conversation and encourages you to check Meg out on her website and on her Instagram page! Until the next episode of The Wedding Biz, please share this interview with at least three good friends and/or colleagues who might also benefit from and/or enjoy it, and leave a review of the podcast wherever you listen!

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!

Time Stamps

[0:51] – This episode's guest is revealed to be Meg Smith of Meg Smith Photography.

[2:10] – Meg talks about how photographers in her family influenced her.

[5:31] – Meg reflects on a darkroom that her father built for her when she was younger.

[6:28] – Meg discusses the relationships that she had with mentors.

[8:32] – We learn about photographable moments that are found rather than created.

[10:52] – Meg talks about her tendency to alternate between film and digital.

[13:03] – We discover what Meg thinks about photography elements such as framing and lighting.

[14:28] – Meg discusses her typical process with her clients.

[17:38] – Andy shifts the conversation toward celebrity clientele.

[20:26] – Meg shares insight about different locations where she has shot photos.

[21:35] – Meg gives examples of challenges that she has had to overcome.

[24:33] – Meg acknowledges nerves and how they are to be expected.

[26:55] – Meg encourages people who want to go into similar fields as hers to be true to themselves

[29:08] – Meg discusses contentment and how she feels finding it.

[30:55] – We learn what type of photography equipment Meg uses now.

[32:54] – Andy reveals where we can find Meg online.

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