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

@philipcarrandassociates

This Week's Guest Co-Host, Michael Rantissi Award-Winning Chef

Michael Rantissi

Kepos Street Catering

@chefmichaelrantissi

@keposandco

@keposstreetkitchen

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Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment

278 PHILIP CARR: Event Architect And Stylist Jul 27, 2020

Show notes

"You build an event; you don't decorate an event, that is diluting what it is to create an event." Listen, as Andy Kushner and his guest Philip Carr discuss why he calls himself an event architect and stylist, the events he produced for Nelson Mandela, President Clinton, and President Bush, his process with clients, and much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz.

Philip is the owner of Philip Carr and Associates out of Sydney, Australia. Philip transforms ordinary spaces into multi-layer theatrical environments and turns his clients' fantasies into breathtaking reality. Philip has a unique way that he talks about designing events that you will hear in this interview.

Listen, as Philip speaks about when he started in the event industry, he means by calling himself an event architect and stylist. Philip believes that the event experience starts when a woman gets dressed to go out and ends with a small gift in their car. He believes that the more layers of detail you can give make the event more memorable.

No detail is too small for Philip when it comes to making guests happy. Whether it's luxurious soap in the bathroom or serving gourmet hamburgers at the end of the event, it's all in the details. Philip gives more examples of how he keeps the guest experience at the forefront when he is going over every detail for his events.

Philip discusses how the pandemic has affected his business and personal life and how it has given him time to slow down and breathe. Philips' attention to every detail is unparalleled, and the way he thinks about events is extraordinary. This is a conversation you can't miss.

We are all experiencing quite a bit of stress and other issues during this pandemic. Andy has put together a list of the top ten tips for dealing with stress, which he has compiled from interviews with icons of the wedding and event industry. If you would like a copy, go to www.theweddingbiz.com/toptips.

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Show Highlights:

[03:33] Welcome to the show, Philip!

[03:57] Philip shares where he was born and the jobs his parents had.

[05:02] Philip speaks about when he got interested in the event industry.

[06:30] Architecture is where his actual interest was.

[07:39] Listen as Philip explains what he means when he calls himself an "event architect and stylist."

[08:57] Philip speaks about transforming the experience, which starts when a woman gets ready at home.

[11:25] Philip believes the more layers of detail you give makes the event more memorable.

[12:51] Philip shares details about an Indian wedding he planned and designed for 2500 guests over four days.

[14:49] Listen as Philip speaks about an engagement party for 800 family members.

[16:18] Philip discusses how he got invited to do events for Nelson Mandela.

[17:47] Why did you leave South Africa and move to Australia?

[20:37] Philip shares his process from the quote to the event.

[24:12] Philip speaks about how he gets a feel for what his clients want.

[26:32] He always tries to stay one step ahead of what his clients need.

[28:16] Philip likes when guests get immersed into an event the moment they arrive.

[31:14] Listen as Philip gives some examples of challenges he has faced during an event.

[36:55] How do you feel about the business side?

[37:38] Being super organized is one way he keeps his business on top.

[38:14] Philip discusses how he got invited to organize some people's dressing rooms.

[39:58] Listen, as Philip shares how COVID-19 has affected his business and his personal life.

[41:10] Philip speaks about how the pandemic has allowed him to slow down and take time to breathe.

[44:07] Have you taken time to grow and change?

[45:56] Philip, thank you so much for being on the show!

RESOURCES

Find Philip

Philip Carr

@philiipcarrevent

@philipcarrandassociates

YouTube - setting up an event

YouTube - A tribute to brides and grooms

YouTube - A proposal event

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Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment

Ceci Johnson episode 94 on The Wedding Biz

Mentioned:

277 THE NEXT LEVEL: JENNIFER STEIN discusses MATT PORTEOUS/Photographer: The Way He Sees The World Jul 22, 2020

Show notes

Andy welcomes Jennifer Stein back to The Next Level. Jennifer is the Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Destination I Do Magazine, which can be found at newsstands in all fifty states and twelve countries. She also publishes a daily blog, consults, custom publishes and has a podcast called CONFETTI.

Matt is an award-winning photographer who has gained a world-class reputation for his exquisite documentary style photography. Matt is considered the Royal photographer for his work with the Cambridges. He helps change-makers make a difference and shoots on behalf of Ocean Culture Life, a global community of storytellers, photographers, filmmakers, and environmentalists whose lives have been shaped by the sea.

Jennifer and Andy discuss Matt's love of travel, how he immerses himself into the culture of the people he photographs and how he connects with his clients by taking them to the places they love and getting them to relax. They also speak of Matt's charity work and the fact that he doesn't just take photos of beautiful things, he takes photographs that can change lives.

If you knew this pandemic had an end date, would you change how you live your life right now? Andy shares that he is using this time to take a day to himself to recharge and how it is allowing him to come up with fresh ideas. Jennifer speaks about the Black Lives Matter movement, and how it's coming on the heels of the pandemic has allowed people to think about what it means and take the time to listen.

If you haven't listened to Matt's interview, sit down, give yourself a moment to listen and be inspired to look for the positive things when right now it seems easier to focus on the negative.

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Show Highlights:

[01:09] Welcome back to the show, Jennifer!
[03:34] Jennifer discusses Matt's love of travel and how he immerses himself in the people's culture he shoots.
[05:02] Matt's goal when he takes photos is to connect with them so they can relax.
[06:27] Andy shares that Matt gets his clients together before the wedding and asks them where they love to go on a weekend and takes them there.
[09:43] Jennifer speaks about how Matt does charity work and how he does so much more than just take photos of beautiful things.
[11:14] Still feeling joy during this pandemic is not only allowed but encouraged.
[12:29] Jennifer says that if we had a crystal ball that said the pandemic would be over in six months how would it change the way you are living your life today?
[14:04] Andy shares that he is taking Friday afternoons off, for the summer, and having some time to himself.
[15:03] Jennifer thinks people would relax more if they knew when this pandemic would be over.
[17:53] This pandemic is a change for all of us to reset, recharge, and reflect.
[18:23] Jennifer speaks about the Black Lives Matter movement happening now when people have more time to think about what it means.
[20:36] Thank you so much for being on the show again!
[22:40] Don't forget to listen to Andy's new music podcast called the Music Makers.

Find Matt

@m_weddings

@mattporteous

This Week's Guest Co-Host, Jennifer Stein Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Destination I Do Magazine

Destination I Do Magazine

Destination I Do Blog

Jennifer Stein on the Wedding Biz

Instagram | Twitter

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Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by The Music Makers Podcast, where you can get behind-the-scenes stories from the most influential music industry pros.

Mentioned:

Colin Cowie Episode 267 on The Wedding Biz

276 MATT PORTEOUS/Photographer: The Way He Sees The World Jul 20, 2020

Show notes

"I'm lucky now because I get to go to really beautiful places and photograph wonderful people." Listen, as Andy Kushner and his guest Matt Porteous discuss the small island he was born and raised on, when he became interested in photography, how the way he saw the world differed from other kids his age, his years surfing and taking pictures plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz

Matt is an award-winning photographer who has gained a world-class reputation for his exquisite documentary style photography. Matt is considered the Royal Photographer for his work with the Cambridges. He helps change-makers make a difference and shoots on behalf of Ocean Culture Life, a global community of storytellers, photographers, filmmakers, and environmentalists whose lives have been shaped by the sea.

Matt speaks about the small channel island near France where he grew up, how he became a stonemason when he left school, then took off for two years to travel and surf. Matt shares that when he takes photographs, he likes to immerse himself in the culture of whoever is being photographed and how he balances all the different genres and projects he is involved with.

Have you ever heard of the documentary style of wedding photography? Matt shares his process with his clients and how he gets the guys he photographs to relax for photos. Matt discusses how he became known as the Royal Photographer, his work with Ocean Culture Life, and with some charities that helps rescue children in India from child labor.

Matt says he feels very blessed to live the life he has and he doesn't take one moment for granted. During the pandemic, he put together a tutorial to help others navigate the world of photography. This was a very dynamic conversation that you won't want to miss.

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Show Highlights:

[02:25] Welcome to the show, Matt!

[02:43] Matt speaks about being on a small island called Jersey, which is tucked inbetween Britain and France and is part of the channel islands.

[03:43] Matt shares where he grew up and the culture he was raised with.

[04:30] Listen, as Matt speaks about when he became interested in photography.

[06:04] Matt discusses how he saw the world as a teenager, which differed from most kids his age.

[08:09] When Matt left school, he had no idea what he would do with his life.

[09:58] He went into the building industry as a stonemason because he was told it was a great way to make money and see the world.

[11:02] Matt describes becoming a surfer and traveling the world surfing.

[15:00] When Matt takes photographs, he submerses himself in the group's culture.

[17:23] Matt discusses how he balances all the genres of photography that he is involved in.

[20:08] Matt describes what documentary style wedding photography comprises.

[21:46] Listen as Matt shares his process when getting to know a couple.

[24:06] Matt talks about how he gets the guys to relax for photos.

[25:32] How did you get chosen to be the Royal photographer?

[28:12] Matt speaks about how being the Royal photographer was a game-changer for him.

[29:51] "In order to inspire others, you must first tell an inspiring story."

[30:02] Matt shares his work with Ocean Culture Life and change maker storytellers.

[31:56] Matt speaks about some charities he has been working with and shares a story about working in India to rescue children from child labor.

[34:35] Matt discusses how he has been affected by the pandemic.

[37:07] Over the last few weeks, he has spent a lot of free time at the beach at home in Jersey.

[39:45] Matt is putting tutorials together on how to through the photography world during this pandemic shut down.

[41:23] Thank you so much for being on the show!

RESOURCES

Find Matt

@m_weddings

@mattporteous

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The Chicago Coalitions letter to the Governor

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Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by The Music Makers Podcast, where you can get behind-the-scenes stories from the most influential music industry pros.

Mentioned:

The Wedding Biz Network

275 Forming An Event Coalition With Jeannette Tavares, Michelle Durpetti, Ali Phillips Jul 15, 2020

Show notes

Andy's guests today are three people who have been involved with forming and running coalitions to advocate on behalf of networks of hundreds of small businesses and contractors in the event industry during the pandemic. The one in Chicago is spearheaded by Michelle Durpetti, Ali Phillips, and Colin Pearson, and Jeannette Tavares formed the one in Washington DC.

Michelle Durpetti is a Chicago based wedding planner, venue owner, and restaurateur with Michelle Durpetti Events. Ali Phillips is also a Chicago event producer with Engaging Events by Ali. Jeannette Tavares is the owner of Evoke Design & Creative, an event planning and production company out of Washington, DC.

Listen as these amazing women discuss why they thought it was necessary to start these Coalitions to help small businesses and people in the event industry, what they see happening because of this pandemic, and the response they have received. Michelle, Ali, and Jeannette share what they want to happen and why they believe that the Coalitions will continue long after the pandemic has run its course.

They saw a need and have set out to bring the plight of small business owners, and people who support the event industry, to the elected officials in their cities. Could you do something like this in your area? We all have a voice and it's time to use it.

We are all experiencing more stress and other issues during this pandemic. Andy has put together a list of the top ten tips for dealing with stress, which he has compiled from interviews with icons of the wedding and event industry. If you would like a copy, go to www.theweddingbiz.com/toptips.

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Show Highlights:

[01:34] Andy introduces each of his guests, Michelle, Ali, and Jeannette.

[03:02] Andy reads the first two paragraphs of the letter that the Chicago Coalition sent to Illinois Governor Pritzker.

[03:55] Michelle shares why she felt they should form the Coalition.

[05:06] Ali discusses the three critical points of the letter.

[07:41] Jeannette speaks about her experience with the Washington, DC Event Coalition and what they are doing for the event community.

[09:34] Jeannette talks about getting information about their ecosystem together for lobbying.

[11:11] Michelle and Ali share the responses they received from their letters.

[13:13] Jeannette speaks about the response from the D.C. Coalition.

[14:23] Listen, as Jeannette talks about what she wants to happen because of the DC Coalition.

[15:54] Michelle and Ali share what their goal is with the Chicago Coalition.

[17:18] What would you suggest for anyone in another city that might want to start a Coalition?

[19:40] Jeannette shares some other things that she feels are important.

[20:49] Ali adds that we all have a voice and how important it is to let elected officials know what we need.

[21:36] Michelle shares some last words for people in the event industry.

[22:49] Thank you, Michelle, Ali, and Jeannette for being on the show!

RESOURCES

DC Events Coalition

Michelle Durpetti

Michelle Durpetti Events

@mdurpettievents

Instagram | Twitter

@MichelleDurpettiEvents

Ali Phillips

Engaging Events By Ali

@aliphillips

@EngagingEventsbyAli

@aliphillips

Twitter

Jeannette Tavares

Evoke Design & Creative

Jeannette Tavares Episode 230 on The Wedding Biz

@evoke_dc

@EVOKEDC

@evokedc

Twitter

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Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment

Diversity Action Plan: How to do the Work and Make Room for an Inclusive Industry

Mentioned:

Alan Shukovsky Episode 268 on The Wedding Biz

274 KUNBI ODUBOGUN: A Celebration of Life, The Perfete and Not So Perfete Jul 13, 2020

Show notes

"We share the Perfete and the not so Perfete things about life." Listen, as Andy Kushner and his guest Kunbi Odubogun discuss her backstory and this wonderful site she created. We also talked about when she appeared on an Engage panel discussing her perspective on racial injustice and so much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz.

Kunbi is the founder of Perfete, a celebration centered digital publication, providing tips and tools for celebrating all of life's joyous moments from stylish parties and weddings to decor, inspiration, and gift guides. Kunbi is also the host of the Perfete Podcast, a bi-weekly podcast featuring relatable stories from female thought leaders...Creatives and professionals who share their tangible takeaways for living one's Perfete life.

Listen as Kunbi shares growing up in Nigeria and moving to Kansas at fifteen, why she got a business degree and then a law degree and how she got into the wedding industry by planning her two wedding celebrations. Kunbi blogged about her wedding as a way to stay in touch with her friends in Nigeria, and it turned into Perfete.

"Life isn't perfect, but we can navigate the journey together." Kunbi discusses what Perfete is all about and why she celebrates beautiful things but also talks about the hard things in life. Kunbi also speaks about how she is handling the pandemic with both Perfete and her legal blog as well.

"Do not be afraid to disrupt any place that you want to be." Listen as Kunbi addresses racial discrimination, the inequality in the event industry, and what young people of color should do if they want to get into the industry. Kunbi says that now is the time to get your voice heard, so speak out.

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Show Highlights:

[02:16] Welcome to the show, Kunbi!

[03:21] Kunbi shares where she was born and how she ended up in the states at 15.

[04:56] Kunbi speaks about how hard it was to move so far away from home.

[06:07] Listen, as Kunbi shares why she chose a business degree before going to law school.

[08:28] How did you get into the wedding industry?

[10:58] Kunbi discusses the two weddings she had, one for her friends in the U.S. and the destination wedding she had for her family from Nigeria.

[13:51] Kunbi shares when her blog turned into her publication, Perfete.

[16:31] During this last year of Perfete, Kunbi has reviewed what is working and narrowed it down to celebrations and some hard parts of life.

[19:01] "Life isn't perfect, but we can navigate the journey together."

[19:45] How are you addressing issues connected to the pandemic with Perfete?

[21:36] Kunbi speaks about using her voice to highlight how people have been able to pivot their businesses during this pandemic.

[23:02] What are some issues that people are facing around pivoting their businesses?

[25:48] You have to test new ideas out with the public because not everyone likes what you like.

[28:31] Kunbi shares her perspective on racial issues and what she believes that people not of color should listen to without judgment, and where they can speak up more.

[31:52] What advice would you give young people of color wanting to get into the industry?

[33:52] "Do not be afraid to disrupt any of the places you want to be."

[35:27] With the changes happening now, make sure you speak out because now is the time to have your voice heard.

[36:41] Kunbi speaks about the podcast she hosts.

[38:10] Thank you so much for being on the show!

RESOURCES

Find Kunbi:

Kunbi Odubogun

Podcast

Kunbi's Personal page

Kunbi's Legal Services

@perfete

Facebook | Instagram

@helloperfete

Twitter | Pinterest

History of Black Weddings in America

Coronavirus: What happens to your Contracts Now

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Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment

Mentioned:

Preston Bailey episode 265 on The Wedding Biz

273 ALEX LE ROUX: Designing Musical Entertainment In An Extraordinary Way Jul 06, 2020

Show notes

"If you don't have a star in the band, you are a cover band." Listen as Andy Kushner and his guest Alex Le Roux discuss what he looks for when auditioning musicians and singers, what makes a band extraordinary, and why he keeps the same musicians together for every event plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz.

Alex is the Founder and CEO of ALR Music based in London. Alex and his team of music and wedding specialists provide entertainment for over 450 luxury events around the world each year. With high profile clients ranging from rock n roll to British royalty, their exclusive roster, and unrivaled level of service and expertise has led to an impressive client list including the United States Ambassador to the UK, Simon Cowell, Google, Chanel and more.

Alex speaks about why he transitioned from singing to music production and management, and how he keeps his musicians loyal by keeping them busy, playing over 150 events a year. Alex allows each band to voice the music they play, their style, and the vibe that makes them unique.

Listen as Alex describes how he designed the music for Engage London, how the pandemic has impacted his business and what he sees happening in the event industry as the end of the year approaches. Alex's vision for his company is intuitive, and where he is taking his bands is extraordinary, don't miss this episode.

Also, Andy has launched a new podcast network called The Wedding Biz Network, in which he produces podcasts for other people in the event industry, with Sean Low being its first member. Sean's show, The Business Of Being Creative, comes out every Tuesday and stay tuned for more new show announcements coming soon.

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Show Highlights:

[02:40] Welcome to the show, Alex!

[03:25] Alex shares when music first grabbed his attention and became his passion.

[04:52] Were you performing or putting together any bands in high school?

[05:39] Alex knew when he got out of high school that he would pursue music, so he auditioned at The Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts and finally got accepted.

[07:13] He speaks about the key lessons he learned at the Institute that he still uses today.

[09:35] Alex shares how he transitioned from being a singer into the management side of the industry.

[12:00] How many permanent bands do you have set up?

[13:50] Alex believes that having a star singer leading each band is the difference between being extraordinary instead of mediocre.

[15:54] Because he can offer them so much work, he doesn't have to worry about his musicians leaving.

[17:23] Do you contract with sound companies?

[19:45] Alex discusses how his bands handle weddings and events, which are so different from concerts.

[22:30] Alex empowers his bands to have their own style and vibe.

[24:44] What is your behind-the-scenes process with clients?

[27:54] Alex shares how involved he gets with the planners during lux events.

[29:16] Alex describes how he designed the music for the Engage summit in London.

[31:27] For the Gala, they started with a 20's swing band and continually switched up the music throughout the event.

[33:11] How do you handle the business side of your company?

[35:16] Alex discusses how the pandemic is affecting his business.

[36:43] How are you spending your downtime?

[40:45] Alex shares about how busy he has been in the last few years.

[42:52] Alex gives some tips and advice for musicians that want to do what he does.

[44:15] What would you tell planners about how to handle bands for events?

[45:40] Thank you for being on the show!

RESOURCES

Find Alex:

Alex Le Roux

@alrmusic

@alrmusic1

ALR Music Lockdown Series

Alex & ALR Music in the Mayfair Times

ALR Music compilation video

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Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment

The Essential PR & Marketing Field Guide

272 A Conversation with: Simon T. Bailey Jul 01, 2020

Show notes

This is a second appearance with Simon T. Bailey. His is a very popular Speaker, author and leader of the "brilliance movement" – helping more than 1 million people find their brilliance, shift their thinking and produce sustainable results. According to The Speakers Experts, Simon is one of America's top ten most booked corporate and association speakers. In 2015 Simon was inducted into the prestigious National Speakers Association Hall of Fame. Speaker magazine cited Simon as one of the top 25 "hot speakers" shaping the profession. And, in 2018, he was awarded one of "25 successful people who'll help change your life in 2018." His popular "Building Business Relationships" micro-learning course has been viewed by 10,000+ professionals in 100 countries. He has spoken on six continents to 1,000+ organizations. In today's episode, Andy discusses life during the current pandemic, with Simon, and asks how he keeps up his motivation during the slow-down. Simon gives his perspective on pivoting, how to consider whether or not it's even necessary, and how he recommend we approach the concept. Simon also has a frank conversation with Andy sharing his thoughts about the issue of racial injustice, given the recent and on-going national protests. Andy asks Simon what he would advise young people of color consider in navigating this difficult and challenge issue in today's society. He also asks Simon how he recommend others think about and discuss the issue. Simon is a gifted talent and we are so happy to have him on the show again! Videos: https://vimeo.com/416680940 - Rejection is a Gift https://vimeo.com/427017086 - Love and Growth https://vimeo.com/405884170 - Spark Hope Links to Promote:

Elevate Your Career and Business - https://go.simontbailey.com/shift1
Simon's Books just for you - https://www.amazon.com/Simon-T.-Bailey/e/B001IGSIQI%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share
https://www.linkedin.com/learning/building-business-relationships-2
https://www.linkedin.com/learning/leading-through-relationships/lead-your-way-to-greater-impact

Website: http://www.simontbailey.com Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simontbailey/ Twitter: @simontbailey https://www.instagram.com/simontbailey/ https://www.facebook.com/simon.t.bailey

271 NATALIE DENYSE: Building A Strong Brand To Weather The Storm Jun 29, 2020

Show notes

"The best-laid PR & marketing strategies are rooted in intent and purpose." Listen as Andy Kushner and his guest Natalie Denyse discuss essential building blocks of a strong PR and marketing strategy, how to create a culture for your brand, and rethinking your brand message plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz.

Natalie is the founder of In Good Company Public Relations, a boutique PR and marketing firm servicing distinguished brands in the wedding, events, and hospitality industry. She uses a forward-thinking approach, combining media relations, social content, and off-line marketing tactics into one holistic strategy. Natalie is also the creator of The Essential PR & Marketing Field Guide, a digital education resource for creative brands looking to propel their businesses to new heights.

"Reach your clients where they are." Listen, as Natalie shares, the first thing you need to build a strong PR and marketing strategy is a powerful message or elevator pitch. She also discusses ways to keep your brand secure and build relationships even when things get a little unpredictable, like they are now with the pandemic, but also think about strategies that will pay off in the long term.

"A post should feel thought out." Natalie shares examples of what she means by keeping up with your social media by curating photos on Instagram and telling stories by utilizing the full capabilities of a caption. Another way is to put out an email newsletter sharing something of value to let them know you are thinking of them. Don't miss a word of what she has to say.

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Show Highlights:

[02:01] Welcome to the show, Natalie!

[02:41] Natalie gives her definition of public relations and marketing.

[04:42] Where did you cultivate your passion for public relations and marketing?

[06:58] Natalie shares the building blocks of a strong PR and marketing strategy.

[07:27] The first thing Natalie says you need is a powerful message.

[09:43] What is your elevator pitch?

[11:35] Natalie encourages anyone who is thinking about getting started with PR and marketing to build a consistent content strategy.

[14:22] Natalie shares that you need a proactive value-forward approach to relationship building.

[15:11] How do you create a culture that will follow your brand through the hard times?

[17:39] Natalie speaks about establishing strategies now that will pay off in the long term.

[20:35] Think about ways to expand your network thoughtfully to get your ideal clients in the room.

[21:13] What is your advice for people who feel stuck right now with the pandemic slowdown?

[24:21] Now is the time to refine the pieces of your marketing message to ensure that all the decision-makers feel comforted that you understand their unique needs.

[26:11] Natalie shares some other things that you can do to keep your momentum.

[28:41] What do you mean by storytelling as related to posting on social media?

[31:27] Brands should think creatively about how they can do more storytelling.

[34:05] Natalie shares that if you are a creative and you have something to offer your clients or industry partners, put together an email newsletter.

[35:20] Decide where you will put your efforts to build your business for the long term to weather the storm down the road.

[36:21] Natalie, do you have any final thoughts for the listeners?

[37:08] Thank you, Natalie, for being on the show!

LINKS & RESOURCES

Find Natalie:

Natalie Denyse

In Good Company PR | Wedding Industry Marketing

@ingoodcompanypr

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Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.

Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment

Neillie Butler on The Wedding Biz

Mentioned:

270 MICHAEL UNCAPHER discusses LISA VORCE: The Intangible Soul Of An Event Jun 24, 2020

Show notes

Listen as Andy Kushner and Michael Uncapher discuss Lisa's winding road to the event industry, how she taps into the "intangible soul" for an event, how important she feels lighting is to any event, plus much more on this episode of The Next Level.

Michael is the Co-Owner and Managing Director with Mark's Garden out of Los Angeles. Mark's Garden has crafted floral designs for the Academy Awards Governor's Ball for the past twenty-six years, plus television Emmy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, top-level civic events and a long list of celebrity weddings including Pink, Gwen Stefani, Heidi Klum, Jennifer Lopez, and Jessica Simpson to name a few.

Lisa is a world-renown celebrity event planner, receiving accolades from Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Brides, BizBash, Martha Stewart, and many more. She planned events for Kobe Bryant and produced some of the most iconic celebrations, including the weddings of John Legend and Chrissy Teigen, and Kate Upton and Justin Verlander.

Listen, as Andy and Michael chat about Lisa's unique perspective on finding the intangible soul of an event, how important lighting is for an event, and Lisa's preference for natural light. Michael shares how important Instagram is for showcasing your work and why he sometimes takes the unique approach of taking a picture with his phone at an event to see how his creations will look on Instagram, what a great idea!

SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ

Show Highlights:

[01:22] Welcome back to the show, Michael!
[03:20] Michael shares his background and how he got into the event industry.
[04:39] Michael speaks about how hard it can be for a florist to find the "intangible soul" as Lisa does.
[06:50] Michael agrees with Lisa on how important lighting is for an event.
[08:03] Natural light, which looks most like candlelight, is the look Lisa likes most.
[09:07] Have you ever had an instance when you have shown up to an event, and the lighting wasn't what you would have wanted for your floral designs?
[11:04] Michael speaks about how important it is to use Instagram to showcase your designs.
[13:00] Michael discusses the fact that Lisa designs websites for her clients' destination weddings.
[14:09] Lisa and her team feel like they know the guests before they get there because they are interacting with them through the website.
[15:41] Michael, thank you so much for being on the show!

Find Lisa

Lisa Vorce

Lisa Vorce on The Wedding Biz

@lisavorce

@lisavorceco

This Week's Guest Co-Host, Michael Uncapher, Co-Owner and Managing Director of Mark's Garden

Mark's Garden

@michael_marksgarden