Wedding Pros who are ready to grow - with Becca Pountney (Becca Pountney)
Explore every episode of Wedding Pros who are ready to grow - with Becca Pountney
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Oct 2022 | 7 things I couldn't run my wedding business without... | 00:15:18 | |
Today I'm sharing with you the 7 things that I absolutely couldn't run my business without! From software to paper diaries - here's my run down of the things that make my business better! I would LOVE to know what things would make your list? Send me a DM on Instagram or send an email to becca@beccapountney.com. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 22 Sep 2022 | Pricing, Retreats and PJ parties - Interview with Kelly Mortimer | 00:30:44 | |
Today I'm talking with my friend and fellow wedding industry expert Kelly Mortimer! We discuss how the wedding industry is looking right now, including how we should respond to the cost of living crisis. We also talk about our upcoming Wedding Business Retreat and our desire to see the wedding industry growing. If you fancy a few days away with us to focus on your business growth and to connect with other likeminded people then you can find out more here: www.weddingbusinessretreat.com Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 27 Jul 2023 | The 'Gentle Sales system' for your wedding business with Carolyn Kulb | 00:42:23 | |
Today I'm chatting with Carolyn Kulb, the founder of The Bloom Poet, a boutique wedding floral and event design studio in Seattle. We dive into Carolyn's journey in the wedding industry, starting as a flower farmer and transitioning into the wedding floral business. We talk about the challenges she faced in the early years and the changes she made to make her business more profitable. Carolyn shares her gentle sales system and how she follows up with potential clients, providing valuable information even if they don't initially reply. Learn why you should pay attention to the Gentle Sales system for your wedding business. Get a copy of Carolyn's '10 gentle sales email's' here. Find Carolyn on Instagram Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: The Gentle Sales System [00:01:03] Carolyn discusses her successful gentle sales system that helps her book clients and avoid being ghosted. Starting as a Flower Farmer [00:02:17] Carolyn shares her journey of starting as a flower farmer and transitioning into the wedding floral business. Challenges and Mistakes in the Early Years [00:05:26] Carolyn talks about the challenges she faced in the early years, including marketing and sales mistakes, and how she overcame them. The sustainability of wedding flowers [00:09:41] Carolyn discusses the efforts her business makes to source sustainable and locally grown flowers for weddings. Setting the minimum spend and pricing strategy [00:11:03] Carolyn explains how she determined her minimum spend and pricing strategy based on factors such as supply chain, inflation, and the need for financial sustainability. The customer journey and gentle sales system [00:14:38] Carolyn walks through the steps of her customer journey, including website inquiries, automated emails, and personalized videos, to build trust and find the right clients. The importance of transparency and building trust [00:19:08] Carolyn discusses the importance of being transparent with clients and building trust by providing all the necessary information upfront. Serving clients by providing information [00:19:51] Becca and Carolyn talk about the value of providing clients with all the information they need to make an informed decision, and how it can save time for both parties. Taking pressure off initial calls and focusing on helping the client [00:25:18] Carolyn shares her approach to taking the pressure off sales calls by focusing on helping the client rather than closing the sale, and being prepared to refer clients to other vendors if necessary. The initial sales call [00:29:28] Carolyn discusses the process of the initial sales call, including discussing the couple's vision, needs, and budget. Sending the questionnaire [00:30:19] After the call, Carolyn sends the | |||
| 23 Feb 2023 | Writing copy that sells weddings - with Andrea Shah | 00:29:41 | |
Today I'm talking to Wedding Industry Copywriter - Andrea Shah. Do you struggle to know what to say on your website and social posts? Have you had updating your copy on your to do list for a while? If the answer is yes then this episode is going to help you! It's time to start writing copy that sells more weddings. Visit Andrea's about page: https://andreashah.com/about-andrea Follow Andrea on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreashahcopy/ Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 25 May 2023 | Dealing with emotional wedding clients - with Leah Weinberg | 00:41:48 | |
In today's episode, I chat with Leah Weinberg, a former wedding planner turned lawyer, about her book "The Wedding Rollercoaster" and the emotional side of wedding planning. We discuss the importance of understanding the psychology behind weddings and really tuning in to clients' behaviour and emotions to provide better support and a more personalised experience. We also chat about some of the tricky situations she's faced, like dealing with difficult family dynamics and incorporating cultural and religious traditions into her clients wedding days. Check out Leah's book on Amazon Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: The Inspiration for the Book [00:02:45] Leah Weinberg shares the story of how a conversation with a client inspired her to write her book, "The Wedding Rollercoaster." The Psychology Behind Weddings [00:05:45] Leah Weinberg discusses the emotional side of wedding planning and the tough conversations that couples may have to navigate. Why Couples Get Stressed [00:07:17] Leah Weinberg explains the various factors that contribute to the stress and emotion that couples experience during wedding planning, including family dynamics, money, and past relationships. Understanding the Client's Experience [00:09:07] Importance of understanding the client's behavior and experience in the wedding industry. Dealing with Difficult Emotions [00:12:11] Process for dealing with difficult emotions from clients and understanding one's own emotional intelligence. Challenges Faced by Couples [00:16:58] Example of a couple from different cultural backgrounds and the challenges they faced in combining their traditions for the wedding ceremony. Breaking down the planning process [00:22:05] Leah Weinberg shares her advice on how to help couples navigate the overwhelming process of wedding planning by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable steps. Importance of context when asking personal questions [00:21:13] Leah Weinberg and Becca Pownall discuss the importance of providing context when asking personal questions to clients, especially when it comes to family dynamics and cultural or religious traditions. Dealing with unexpected life events [00:24:38] Leah Weinberg shares a story of a couple who went radio silent during the planning process due to an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis, and how she handled the situation with empathy and professionalism. The Wedding Rollercoaster [00:26:25] A former wedding planner turned lawyer shares a heartwarming story of a couple who decided to shave their heads in solidarity during the wedding planning process. Creating Touchpoints [00:31:13] The importance | |||
| 31 Mar 2022 | The 6 wedding pro's you definitely DON'T want to be like and how to avoid becoming one.... | 00:22:53 | |
The Wedding Industry is made up of a wide variety of people, each unique and creative in their own ways! I am all about collaboration over competition and want you to work with as many different wedding business owners as you can, to help move forward! Every now and then however.... we come across some wedding pro's, that we really don't want to be like and in today's episode I am going to share 6 of them with you! From the no action moaner to the used car salesman, how can you avoid these pitfalls in your own wedding business. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 30 Jun 2022 | How to make your wedding business more fun - Interview with Kimba Cooper | 00:31:14 | |
If you want to do things a little bit differently in your wedding business then this episode is for you. Today we are talking about gamification and how it can be implemented into your wedding business. From making wedding fairs and expos more fun for potential couples through to getting more interaction online - Kimba is full of great ideas for you. Want to hear more from Kimba? She has recorded more great sessions inside of my members lounge: Join today: go.beccapountney.com/wedpro Want to purchase Kimba's gamification template package? You can use my affiliate link below: Click here to purchase the templates. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 25 Aug 2022 | The CHEAPEST way to advertise your wedding business! | 00:22:19 | |
Today I'm sharing with you the cheapest way to advertise and grow your wedding business - networking. I know you don't have a huge marketing budget, especially when you are starting out, so in today's episode I'm going to be sharing the secrets of how to use networking to grow your wedding business for success. I am going to be showing you why networking matters, and sharing ways and places to help you take action and start growing your network. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in today's episode: Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 07 Sep 2023 | Communicate, be brave and be nice - growing a successful wedding DJ Business with Mike Readings | 00:41:23 | |
Today I'm chatting with DJ Mike Readings, I LOVE sharing my wedding pro members lounge stories, they are always fascinating - and Mikes is no different! From working on a Disney Cruise to owning two successful entertainment companies, Mike has a huge amount of knowledge to share. Listen to his journey as he shares his experience of growing a successful wedding DJ Business. Find out more about the Wedding Pro Members Lounge: https://go.beccapountney.com/wedpro Find out more about Mike: https://www.djmikereadings.co.uk/ https://www.instagram.com/dj_mike_readings https://www.discofactoryuk.com/ Time Stamps: Starting as a DJ [00:01:31] Mike shares how he started his journey as a DJ, buying gear and doing gigs in nightclubs and pubs. Working for Disney [00:02:41] Mike talks about his time working for Disney on one of their cruise lines and how it sparked his passion for DJing. Learning from Carphone Warehouse and Disney [00:04:47] Mike discusses how his experiences working at Carphone Warehouse and Disney have shaped his sales pitch and business approach. The Disney Training Experience [00:09:18] Mike discusses his experience working for Disney, including the bizarre morning rituals and the impact it had on his entertainment skills. Transitioning to Full-Time DJ [00:12:04] Mike talks about quitting his job at Carphone Warehouse and taking on window cleaning as a part-time job to pursue his DJ career. Adapting During COVID-19 [00:16:34] Mike shares how he worked for Sainsbury's and did Zoom kids parties during the pandemic, and how it motivated him to take his business to the next level. Building Relationships with Suppliers and Venues [00:24:45] Mike discusses his approach to building relationships with suppliers and wedding venues, emphasizing the importance of being nice, communicating effectively, and showing appreciation. The Power of Communication [00:26:14] Mike highlights the significance of regular communication, particularly through a pre-wedding email, in ensuring a smooth and organized wedding day. He shares how this simple gesture can prevent uncertainty and build trust with venues and couples. Simplicity and Gratitude in Building Relationships [00:28:55] Becca and Mike stress the simplicity of building relationships with venues and suppliers, emphasizing the value of saying thank you, being organized, and avoiding uncertainty. They discuss the impact of appreciation and positive feedback on business growth. The importance of sending emails consistently [00:30:03] Mike discusses the importance of consistently sending emails and how he plans to outsource this task during busy seasons. Advice for someone starting out in the wedding industry [00:30:47] Mike advises new wedding industry professionals to seek advice from experienced individuals rather than relying on family and friends. The importance of having a life plan [00:34:34] Mike reflects on the importance of having a life plan, not just a business plan, and how he wishes he had thought about his future earlier in his career. Mentioned in this episode: In person events coming up soon. Furtho Manor Farm Wed Pro Party - October 4th 2023. https://go.beccapountney.com/party The Wedding... | |||
| 23 Mar 2023 | Unlocking the Power of Pinterest in Your Wedding Business - With Gabby Pinkerton | 00:41:46 | |
In today's episode we're going to chat about something super important for wedding businesses: Pinterest! We've got Gabby Pinkerton, a destination wedding planner, here to share her experience with using Pinterest to find clients and give us some tips for creating awesome content. Now, we know some of you might be worried about other businesses stealing your ideas from Pinterest, but don't worry - we've got you covered. So, if you're looking to up your marketing game for your wedding business, you definitely don't want to miss this episode. Make sure to check out our resources below for even more tips on using Pinterest effectively. Find out more about Gabby: https://gabbypinkerton.com/ Click to read more Pinterest tips from Becca Speak to my team at the Wedding Pro Agency about managing your Pinterest: http://weddingproagency.co.uk/ Introduction [00:00:28] Introducing the podcast and guest speaker Gabby Pinton, a destination wedding planner who found success using Pinterest. Why Pinterest is Underrated [00:01:38] Discussion on why Pinterest is often misunderstood and underrated in the wedding industry. Pinterest as a Search Engine [00:02:01] Explanation of how Pinterest is a search engine and not just another social media platform. Pinterest vs Other Social Media Platforms [00:03:33] Comparison of how Pinterest differs from other social media platforms and the type of content that works best on it. Benefits of Pinterest [00:06:23] Discussion on the benefits of using Pinterest, including its evergreen nature and ease of use. Pinterest Strategy [00:08:01] Gabby Pinton shares her strategy for using Pinterest to find clients for her destination wedding planning business. The Power of Pinterest [00:08:45] The speakers discuss the benefits of Pinterest, how it differs from other social media platforms, and strategies for using it effectively. Linking to Your Website [00:09:43] The importance of linking Pinterest images to a website, and how it differs from other social media platforms. Using Pinterest to Find Clients [00:11:00] Gabby Pinton shares her experience with using Pinterest to find clients for her destination wedding planning business. Landing Pages and Blog Posts [00:12:08] The importance of having landing pages and blog posts linked to Pinterest images, and how it can lead to more traffic and conversions. Repurposing Content on Pinterest [00:13:28] The speakers discuss the strategy of repurposing content on Pinterest, and whether it's better to add new pins or edit existing ones. The Unpredictability of Pinterest [00:15:53] The unpredictability of Pinterest and how certain pins can become unexpectedly popular, even if they don't necessarily align with a brand's overall message. Using Pinterest to drive traffic [00:16:57] Discussion on the benefits of Pinterest for wedding businesses and how to effectively use it to drive traffic to your website. Strategies for converting Pinterest traffic [00:18:07] Tips for keeping visitors on your website, building trust, and converting traffic into leads. Keeping visitors engaged [00:21:46] Importance of keeping visitors engaged with your content and using Pinterest to lead them down a rabbit hole of related... | |||
| 17 Aug 2023 | Do you need a freelancer in your wedding business? | 00:30:41 | |
Do you feel like you have a never ending to do list? Are you struggling to get everything done? In today's episode I'm asking whether you need a freelancer in your wedding business? In this episode I'm discussing how you know when you need a freelancer, how to find one and how to get the most out of them. If you are considering taking this route then this episode is for you. Need help finding a freelancer? Speak to us at the Wedding Pro Agency. Need help growing your wedding business? Check out my audio bootcamp. Time stamps: [00:00:57] Using freelancers in my business has been revolutionary. Becca discusses the benefits of hiring freelancers and when to consider it. [00:02:55] When is the best time to hire a freelancer? Becca explains the importance of hiring a freelancer when your to-do list is overwhelming and you need help with tasks. [00:04:42] Where to find freelancers? Becca suggests three options: asking colleagues for recommendations, using an agency like the Wedding Pro Agency, or finding someone yourself through local Facebook groups. Finding the Right Freelancer [00:09:26] Tips on what to look for in a freelancer, including good communication skills and tech savvy. Identifying Tasks for Freelancers [00:11:11] Exploring repetitive tasks that can be outsourced to freelancers, such as social media posting and email inquiries. One-Off Projects for Freelancers [00:17:04] Discussing the option of hiring a freelancer for specific projects or tasks that don't require long-term commitment. Streamlined systems for effective communication [00:19:53] Using Google sheets and drives to streamline communication and tasks between freelancers and the business owner. Giving autonomy to freelancers [00:21:37] Trusting freelancers to complete tasks independently and respecting their expertise and abilities. Setting realistic expectations and giving positive feedback [00:24:22] Setting realistic targets and expectations for freelancers, and providing positive feedback to encourage their continued excellent work. The Wedding Pro Agency [00:27:42] Becca explains the concept of the Wedding Pro Agency, which connects wedding business owners with trained freelancers to help with tasks. Providing Opportunities [00:28:35] Becca discusses how the Wedding Pro Agency provides work opportunities for individuals who may struggle to find employment in the traditional job market. Interested in Working with the Wedding Pro Agency? [00:29:31] Becca invites listeners to reach out if they are interested in having the Wedding Pro Agency manage their social media, handle one-off tasks, or assist with other services mentioned in the episode. | |||
| 12 May 2022 | How to use Facebook groups to grow your wedding business! | 00:32:29 | |
Facebook communities can be a great way to grow your wedding business and your network... but are you using them to their full potential? In today's episode I am sharing my insider knowledge about how you should be using these various groups to become more established and better connected! Want to try out my wedding pro members only community? As a podcast listener you can use the discount code: PODCAST to get the first month for just £1! Join the community here: go.beccapountney.com/wedpro Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 06 Jun 2024 | Bringing humour into your wedding business with Beth Sherman | 00:44:11 | |
Today I'm chatting with Emmy Award winning comedian turned wedding speech writer Beth Sherman. She shares her personal story of getting into comedy, her tips on how as pros and venues we can improve our guests experiences of giving a speech and her insight into how we can all bring more personality and humour into our businesses. Click to find out more about Beth Find out more about Authentically Funny Speeches. Time Stamps: Comedy Writing and Stand-Up (00:00:00) Beth shares her background in comedy writing and stand-up, influenced by her family and love for comedy. Transition to Working in Entertainment (00:02:43) Beth discusses her transition into working in writers' rooms for comedy variety shows and developing the skill to be funny in someone else's voice. Starting the Wedding Speech Business (00:08:58) Beth shares how she started her business, initially taking on work through Upwork and finding her passion for helping people with speeches. Overcoming Challenges and Finding Support (00:11:16) Beth discusses her pragmatic parents and the importance of hard work and determination in pursuing her career in comedy writing. Working in the Wedding Industry (00:16:35) Beth talks about the meaningful experiences and emotional support involved in working with clients for wedding speeches. Growth Strategies for Wedding Speech Business (00:17:05) Beth explains the evolution of her business, from using Google ads to focusing on content marketing through YouTube for lead generation. The Dads are the Higher Ticket Clients (00:21:36) Beth discusses how the fathers of the bride tend to be her higher ticket clients due to their age and financial capacity. The Pressure of Wedding Speeches (00:23:32) Becca and Beth talk about the pressure on non-professional speakers at weddings, and Beth shares her opinions on delivering successful wedding speeches. Setting Speakers Up for Success (00:24:20) Beth explains how wedding professionals can set up speakers for success, including providing clear instructions and positioning the speaker for better visibility. The Importance of Clear Audio (00:31:11) Beth emphasizes the importance of clear audio for speeches, highlighting the impact on delivering jokes and connecting with the audience. Using Humor in Social Situations (00:34:40) Becca and Beth discuss the role of humor in social interactions, providing tips on using humor to build connections in various settings. Listening to Customers (00:40:18) Beth reflects on the importance of listening to customer needs and preferences when creating products and packages for her business. Mentioned in this episode: Summer Support! Looking for support with your wedding business or venue this season? I have put together some options for you. Wedding Pro Agency: Hand over some of your admin tasks to my team to give you some time back this summer. From social media posting to website updates, email sequences and crm set up, there are lots of ways we can help you. One to One support: I have two spaces to offer one to one support from June - August to help keep you in track. If you are interested, drop me an email: becca@beccapountney.com | |||
| 29 Feb 2024 | Unleashing Your Wedding Business Potential - with Lauren Smy | 00:29:39 | |
Today I'm chatting with Wedding Cake creator and business mentor - Lauren Smy. We talk about her journey to wedding business success and the advice she has for cake makers and new wedding business owners. Lauren also shares her own personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD, and how that has impacted her business. Find out more about Lauren's cake coaching Find out more about Lauren's ADHD coaching Time Stamps: Pricing (00:00:00) Lauren discusses the common mistake of not charging enough to cover the cost of running a business, including time and money spent on behind-the-scenes activities. Introduction and Background (00:01:00) Becca introduces Lauren, founder of The Honeybee Wedding Cake Company, and discusses Lauren's journey in the wedding cake industry. Starting the Cake Business (00:01:52) Lauren shares how she started making cakes for friends during her maternity leave and transitioned into setting up a proper business, Honeybee Bakes, which later evolved into The Honeybee Wedding Cake Company. Transition to Making Wedding Cakes (00:03:37) Lauren explains her transition from making birthday cakes to specializing in wedding cakes, driven by her passion for creating sugar flowers and a desire to focus on the wedding industry. Gaining Confidence in Cake Making (00:04:31) Lauren discusses the challenges and learning experiences she faced when transitioning from making celebration cakes to creating high-quality wedding cakes, emphasizing the importance of confidence and perfectionism. Finding Clients (00:06:59) Lauren shares her early strategies for finding clients, including leveraging social media platforms like Facebook and engaging in word-of-mouth marketing within her local community. Networking and Building Relationships (00:09:22) Lauren highlights the significance of networking with other wedding suppliers and building relationships within the industry, emphasizing the value of word-of-mouth marketing and collaborative partnerships. Transition to Business Coaching (00:10:22) Lauren explains her motivation for transitioning from making cakes to helping other cake makers with their businesses, driven by a desire for community, a background in business studies, and a need to address pricing and confidence issues within the industry. Common Mistakes in Cake Businesses (00:14:16) Lauren discusses common mistakes in cake businesses, focusing on pricing complexities, lack of confidence, and the failure to account for the costs of running a business, including time spent on behind-the-scenes activities. Importance of Photography (00:17:13) Becca and Lauren discuss the significance of high-quality photography for cake makers, emphasizing its impact on attracting clients and the need for professional images to showcase their products effectively. Taking Quality Pictures of Cakes (00:18:03) Tips on capturing high-quality cake photos, including lighting, venue considerations, and collaboration with photographers. Personal Transition and Business Expansion (00:19:53) Lauren's personal journey, discovering her ADHD, and transitioning from coaching cake makers to working with entrepreneurs with ADHD. Formal ADHD Diagnosis (00:22:17) Lauren's decision to seek a formal diagnosis for ADHD and the importance of self-awareness and acceptance. Strategies for Business with ADHD (00:23:27) Discussion on practical strategies and self-compassion... | |||
| 23 Jun 2022 | It's now a wedding business not a hobby - Interview with Maria Vainella | 00:29:19 | |
Since starting her wedding business in 2010 Maria has gone on a huge journey, taking something she loved doing and turning it into a profitable business! In today's episode I am interviewing my wedding pro member Maria about her business journey and I'll be finding out what made her start to take her business seriously and what an impact that has made on her wedding business and her life. Ready to start taking your wedding business in a more serious direction? Why not become a member of my Wedding Pro members lounge just like Maria: You can find all the details below... Find Maria here: Website: https://www.bombonierebymaria.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bombonierebymaria/ Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 30 May 2024 | Let's make contracts and accounting fun with Braden Drake | 00:29:59 | |
Today I'm chatting with Braden Drake, founder of Not Your Average Law Firm. He takes two typically dry subjects - finance and law and makes them a whole lot more fun. We discuss the importance of understanding legal and financial matters for wedding business owners. Braden talks about hiring practices, the necessity of comprehensive contracts, and the significance of separating personal and business finances. Time Stamps: (0:00:00) Hiring and managing employees, freeing up time for business growth. (00:00:24) Introduction to the podcast and guest, Braden Drake. (00:01:23) Initial conversation and welcome to the podcast. (00:02:02) Making boring subjects exciting, sharing enthusiasm. (00:02:50) Discussing the start of Braden's journey in law and numbers. (00:03:30) Law school experience, comparison to "Legally Blonde." (00:04:37) Graduating and starting own business with financial support. (00:05:57) Transition from working with creatives to the wedding industry. (00:07:44) Helping wedding industry professionals with legal and financial matters. (00:08:37) Mission behind helping businesses with legal and tax matters. (00:10:26) Common contract mistakes and the importance of having contracts. (00:11:13) Essential elements to include in client contracts for wedding suppliers. (00:14:27) Common mistakes in accountancy, importance of separate finances. (00:15:54) Setting aside money for taxes and profits, utilizing auto-savings. (00:17:36)Personal approach to managing profits and savings for specific goals. (00:18:15) Encouraging proactive tax payments and automation. Automating Savings (00:18:29) Braden discusses the benefits of automating savings and the psychology behind it. Tax Deductions and Credits (00:19:19) Braden explains the difference between tax deductions and tax credits, using examples to clarify. Transparency in Finances (00:21:08) Becca praises Braden's transparency in discussing his own finances and the benefits of normalizing such conversations. Pricing and Mistakes (00:22:59) Braden shares insights about pricing services based on actual numbers and learning from business mistakes. Being Unapologetically Yourself (00:24:10) Braden talks about finding confidence in being himself and the benefits it brings to his business. Hiring and Business Growth (00:26:10) Braden and Becca discuss the importance of hiring and growing a team in business expansion. Closing and Contact Information (00:27:39) Becca shares details on how to connect with Braden and concludes the podcast episode. Mentioned in this episode: Summer Support! Looking for support with your wedding business or venue this season? I have put together some options for you. Wedding Pro Agency: Hand over some of your admin tasks to my team to give you some time back this summer. From social media posting to website updates, email sequences and crm set up, there are lots of ways we can... | |||
| 10 Nov 2022 | Are you making these Instagram mistakes? | 00:20:24 | |
This week I have been taking a look at your wedding business accounts on Instagram and I was shocked at what I saw! Some of you are making the most basic mistakes, which could be costing you wedding bookings! In today's episode I am sharing the 7 Instagram mistakes you could be making in your wedding business, and I will tell you how to fix them! Want to know more about the wedding pro members lounge and access more training? Want to listen back to Sue B Zimmerman talking about Instagram bios on episode of the podcast? Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 06 Oct 2022 | WEDCON the story! Interview with Wedcon founders Katie and Roxy | 00:35:34 | |
In today's episode I'm chatting with Katy and Roxy, the founders of Wedcon - a UK based wedding industry conference taking place this November in Birmingham! In today's episode they share their own journeys and talk about their vision and heart for this industry event. Having spoken at the first Wedcon, I am thrilled to be back on stage again this year talking all things blogging! Want to be there? Make sure you grab a ticket using my special link below? Click here to book your Wedcon ticket! Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 31 Mar 2022 | What the heck should I post on social media?! | 00:22:20 | |
You know you need to post regularly on social media... but your mind just goes blank! It's impossible to think up new ideas and you are running out of content! If that is you then you need today's episode as I will be sharing 7 social media post ideas that you can implement today! Want my eyes on your new schedule? Make sure you join my Wedding Pro Facebook group and post your schedule for me to take a look. https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 17 Oct 2024 | Meeting of the Wedding Minds - Live from London | 00:45:25 | |
Today's episode is a special one as it was recorded LIVE from the Biltmore Hotel in Mayfair. The first ever live edition of the podcast was a panel discussion titles 'meeting of the wedding minds. Our host for the evening was Alison Hargreaves, founder of Guides for Brides and joining me on the panel were two renowned Wedding Industry educators from the US - Renee Dalo and Leah Weinberg. Our live audience submitted questions and we covered a wide range of topics from getting reviews to attracting American customers. We dived deep into trends and talked about the books we have all been writing. Thanks to: The Biltmore Hotel for hosting us Visualist for sponsoring the event and giving everyone a gift bag Dave Hadley for the official photos Rebecca Cole for singing on the evening Smart Light and Sound for the equipment Follow Guides for Brides on Instagram Time Stamps: 00:38 - Intro to the Podcast and Event 00:00 - Moving Reviews to New Platforms 03:53 - Trends in Wedding Planning 04:48 - Marketing Insights for Wedding Businesses 07:24 - Navigating Client Expectations 08:37 - The Importance of Email Marketing 11:02 - Strategies for Gathering Customer Reviews 17:45 - Building Relationships with Preferred Suppliers 32:48 - The Power of Authenticity in Business 32:53 - Panelists Share Their Book Journeys Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Show Success workbook Got a Wedding Show coming up? Make sure you have a strategy in place. Download my free wedding show success workbook, and get a special price on my 3 part video training series about how to get the most out of your next show. | |||
| 29 Jun 2023 | How TikTok changed my Wedding Business - Interview with Jack Brierley | 00:31:52 | |
Today I am chatting with one of my Wedding Pro Members - Jack Brierley from JB performers. Jack shares his business journey and his experience of utilizing TikTok to expand his business beyond London and reach a global audience. By offering custom recordings, he has found success on the platform, surpassing live wedding performances. Jack's journey teaches us the importance of finding ways to improve, and embracing new opportunities. Find out more about Jack: Find out more about my members community the Wedding Pro Members Lounge Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: Title [00:00:00] TikTok as the Way Forward for the Wedding Industry Discussion on the effectiveness of TikTok for the wedding industry. Title [00:01:00] Jack's Musical Instruments Jack discusses the five instruments he can play and his habit of learning new instruments. Title [00:03:08] Favorite Musicals and Dream Role Conversation about favorite musicals, including Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Jack's dream role in The Book of Mormon. Title [00:08:40] First Client and Wedding Performance The speaker talks about their first client, who was a musical theatre lover, and their experience performing at her wedding reception. Title [00:10:16] Running a Musical Theatre Night The speaker discusses a business proposition to run a musical theatre and live night in London, inviting clients and friends to have a sing-along. Title [00:11:16] Exhibiting at the National Wedding Show The speaker shares their experience of exhibiting at the National Wedding Show, including the first time being a learning experience and the second time being more successful with a strategy in place. Title [00:18:01] Getting Complimentary Tickets for the National Show Speaker 2 shares a tip on how to get complimentary tickets to the national show for those interested in exhibiting. Title [00:18:43] Using TikTok to Grow the Business Speaker 1 discusses how they started using TikTok to promote their business and offer custom recordings, leading to increased engagement and revenue. Title [00:25:34] International Success with Recordings Speaker 2 mentions that the business has had clients from various countries, including Australia, Texas, New York, Colombia, and Iceland, showcasing the global reach and success of the recordings. Title [00:26:27] Highlighting Different Parts of the World and the Love for Music The speakers discuss the joy of hearing everyone's... | |||
| 20 Feb 2025 | How to change your venue open day with Ian Ramirez | 00:49:49 | |
Today I am chatting with Wedding Venue Owner and speaker Ian Ramirez about all things venues. From how to change your venue open day model to how to build better relationships with suppliers we cover it all. I love Ian's approach to his venue and how he is breaking the mould when it comes to marketing. Time Stamps: 00:00 - Strategies for High Impact with Low Effort 01:29 - The Journey into the Wedding Industry 10:45 - Shifts in Wedding Trends 13:17 - Vendor Relationships in the Wedding Industry 21:35 - The Evolution of Venue Marketing 29:56 - Goodbye to the Open House 35:42 - Transforming Venue Tours: From Observers to Participants 41:24 - Starting a New Venture: The Venue Help Desk Mentioned in this episode: Free Webinar series - Fast Track to Wedding Business Success Join me this March for a FREE webinar series all about how to fast track your wedding business success in the new consumer culture we live in. Live webinars daily from Tues 18th - Thurs 20th March 2025 7:30pm UK I 3:30pm EST. Sign up for your FREE space and to access the recordings | |||
| 09 Jan 2025 | It's never too late to change career with Toastmaster John | 00:37:13 | |
Today I am chatting with one of my Wedding Pro Members - Toastmaster John. John is quite the character and when I first met him I knew he was not your 'stereotypical' toastmaster. Today we talk about his varied career, the work he put into becoming a Toastmaster and how he is embracing social media - including TikTok! Join the Wedding Pro Members Lounge Time Stamps: 00:07 - Introduction to Wedding Marketing 02:46 - The Journey to Toastmaster 18:21 - The Evolution of Toastmasters 27:02 - The Importance of Education in Wedding Business Mentioned in this episode: Work with me in 2025 Want to work with me in 2025? Here's 3 ways we can work together: 1) One to One with an in-person marketing workshop or online strategy session 2) Work with us at the Wedding Pro Agency 3) Join the Wedding Pro Members Lounge for 2025 | |||
| 12 Sep 2024 | Behind the scenes of the Wedding Industry Awards with Damian Bailey | 00:54:13 | |
Today I am taking you behind the scenes of TWIA (aka as the Wedding Industry Awards) with the founder Damian Bailey. As a wedding photographer himself he has set up the most successful wedding awards in the UK. Today I ask him the questions you all want to know the answers to, so you can decide if entering the awards is for you. Entries close on Monday 23rd September, voting closes on Monday 30th September 2024. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction and Personal Development 00:22 Meet the Host: Becca Pountney 00:51 Guest Introduction: Damien Bailey 01:35 Damien's Journey into the Wedding Industry 02:43 The Birth of the Wedding Industry Awards 03:01 Balancing Photography and Awards 04:49 The Impact of Winning an Award 08:05 Evolution of the Wedding Industry Awards 13:21 The Awards Entry Process 27:30 The Importance of Community in Content Creation 28:11 Engaging Audiences Through Awards 28:38 Handling the Fear of Not Winning 28:57 Content Opportunities at Award Events 30:38 The Judging Process Explained 36:09 Tips for a Strong Award Entry 40:42 The Value of Attending Award Events 42:26 Qualifying for National Awards 45:08 Balancing Mental Health and Award Participation 48:52 Final Thoughts and Deadlines | |||
| 11 May 2023 | From Bookbinding to Business - with Ali's Paper | 00:21:02 | |
This week I'm chatting to one of my Wedding Pro Members - Ali from Ali's Paper. She tells the story of moving and setting up her business here in the UK and the importance of a good community in all of it. We talk about the highs and lows of her business journey so far and what she's learnt along the way. Find out more about Ali by visiting: Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Join the Wedding Pro Business Builder Time stamps: Starting a Business Journey [00:04:23] Ali shares her journey of starting her business in different countries and the struggles she faced. Incorporating Paper Items into Weddings [00:02:51] Ali talks about how couples can incorporate her paper items into their wedding day. Networking and Marketing Struggles [00:06:19] Ali discusses her struggles with networking and marketing when starting her business in a new place. Learning and Goal Setting [00:09:08] The guest talks about the courses she took to improve her business and bookbinding skills, and how they helped her set clear goals. Benefits of Styled Shoots [00:10:49] The guest discusses how participating in styled shoots helped showcase her products and bring them to life, and how it benefited her business. Importance of Learning and Community [00:15:08] The guest talks about the importance of learning and community in business, and how being part of a group helped her understand the wedding industry and make connections. Ali's journey [00:19:32] Ali's struggles and successes in starting her business in different countries and overcoming language barriers. Recommendation to check out Ali's work [00:19:32] Encouragement to view Ali's work on her social media and website, including her planners. Personal recommendation [00:19:32] Becca's personal recommendation of Ali's planners and how they keep her family organized. Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 30 Mar 2023 | First Birthday Episode - So much to celebrate! | 00:24:35 | |
WOW I can't believe that it's one year since the launch of Wedding Pro's Who are Ready to Grow! Thank you for being part of the journey. Today we celebrate our first birthday with a special episode. I'm going to be talking about my favourite episodes from the last year and sharing all the best tips from my wedding pro members. So whichever stage your wedding business is at - celebrate with me today! Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Celebrating One Year [00:00:00] Becca celebrates the one-year anniversary of her podcast and reflects on the past year. Learnings from the Podcast [00:02:34] Becca shares how the podcast has allowed her to help more wedding professionals and revisits her mission to help them grow successful businesses. Making Connections [00:04:09] Becca talks about the incredible contacts she has made through the podcast and how it has allowed her to collaborate with people on new levels. Appreciation from Listeners [00:05:47] Becca expresses her gratitude for the listeners who have made the podcast a part of their daily routine and shares how their success stories have been rewarding. Top Five Favorite Episodes [00:07:17] Becca shares her top five favorite episodes from the past year, including an episode about AI and its impact on business. Top 5 Episodes [00:08:11] Becca shares her top 5 favorite podcast episodes from the past year, including topics such as AI, sales funnels, Instagram reels, and Disney's business strategies. Client Advice [00:15:34] Becca shares advice from her clients on what they wish they had known sooner in their own businesses, including the importance of bookkeeping and investing in learning. Tips for Growing a Successful Business [00:17:08] Various tips from different speakers, including targeting the right clients, making connections, finding your niche, not comparing yourself to others, monitoring bounce rates, and prioritizing done over perfect. Reflection on the Past Year [00:21:45] Becca reflects on the great advice shared by her clients over the past year and expresses her gratitude for the podcast's success. Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro Business Builder My signature programme the Wedding Pro Business Builder is LIVE and you will want to take a look at it! Find all the details on the link below: https://go.beccapountney.com/businessbuilder | |||
| 02 May 2024 | Are there too many people in the wedding industry? | 00:26:58 | |
Today I'm challenging the idea that there are too many people in the wedding industry. Despite the influx of new people entering our industry, I don't want you to see this as a negative, instead I am encouraging you to embrace collaboration over competition. In this episode I am going to talk through and respond to some of the negative comments I am hearing and I am going to share my tips for standing out in a crowded wedding market. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: The competition challenge (00:00:00) Addressing the perception of a saturated wedding market and the impact of increased competition on standing out. Local competition concern (00:00:59) Reflecting on the survey results showing local competition as a significant challenge for wedding professionals and the speaker's perspective on collaboration over competition. Benefits of increased suppliers (00:02:52) Discussing the positive impact of more suppliers entering the industry, using examples of commercial spaces and the normalization of new wedding services. Maintaining professionalism (00:07:17) Strategies for maintaining professionalism amidst new entrants, including embracing newcomers and emphasizing one's own credentials and experiences. Dealing with price wars (00:10:51) Addressing concerns about price wars, emphasizing the importance of knowing one's own numbers, avoiding the race to the bottom, and educating clients on the value provided. Standing out in a crowded market (00:15:06) Encouraging differentiation and finding a unique selling point to stand out in a crowded market, highlighting the need to avoid being the "vanilla" option. Diversifying business sources (00:17:39) Advising on the importance of diversifying business sources and not relying solely on one venue or supplier recommendation. Building Relationships with Venues (00:18:41) Tips for wedding professionals to go above and beyond for venues and benefit from collaboration. Embracing New Competition (00:19:33) Encouragement to welcome new professionals, learn from fresh ideas, and embrace the industry's growth. Dealing with Price Competition (00:20:31) Strategies to handle competitors offering lower prices and reassurance about the value of quality service. Surviving and Thriving Amid Competition (00:21:27) Reassurance that businesses offering poor quality or extremely cheap services won't survive in the long run. Reframing the Perception of Competition (00:23:21) An exercise to reframe the way wedding professionals view their direct competition and identify areas for improvement. Leveraging Competition for Growth (00:25:13) Using the strengths and weaknesses of competitors to set goals and refine marketing messaging. Community and Collaboration (00:26:11) Encouragement to build relationships and collaborate with other wedding professionals for... | |||
| 23 Nov 2023 | Is it time for a wedding business rebrand? With Katie Lake | 00:33:04 | |
In today's episode I am chatting with branding and web designer Katie Lake of Studio Lago design. We talk about how to know when your wedding business needs a rebrand and the importance of having a website that reflects your work and speaks directly to your ideal customer. Ask yourself during this episode - is it time for a wedding business rebrand? Follow Studio Lago on Instagram. The importance of reassessing your business (00:00:00) Katie discusses the need to reassess your business and realign your values and brand if necessary. Introduction to Katie Lake and her business transition (00:01:03) Becca introduces Katie Lake, owner of Studio Largo Design, and discusses her transition from the wedding industry to offering branding and web design services. Common mistakes in wedding business websites (00:06:26) Katie discusses common mistakes in wedding business websites, including lack of customization for ideal clients and lack of strategic planning for customer journeys. Updating Your Website Strategy (00:09:47) Importance of having a website as the center of your business and strategies for updating it frequently. Gaining an Outside Perspective (00:12:39) The importance of stepping out of your own perspective and seeking feedback from ideal clients and market research calls. Knowing When to Rebrand (00:16:37) Considering the alignment of business goals, values, and vision before deciding if a rebrand is necessary, and focusing on the ideal client's perspective. The visual rebrand process (00:19:30) Tips on aligning visual branding with ideal clients and creating mood boards. Improving your website (00:21:14) Suggestions for updating and enhancing a website, including reflecting the brand visually and optimizing the home page. Finding the right website designer (00:26:39) Considerations for selecting a website designer, including personal connection, experience, strategy, and budget. The importance of running your business as a business (00:29:50) Katie emphasizes the need to see your business from an outsider perspective and run it with a clear business strategy. Transitioning from winging it to running a proper business (00:31:12) Katie discusses the process of reframing everything and gaining clarity in order to run a business with confidence, rather than waiting for business to come. Taking action to improve your website and brand (00:32:32) Becca encourages listeners to set goals, revisit their values, and evaluate if their website and brand are still aligned, and take action if necessary. | |||
| 18 Jul 2024 | Behind the scenes of Wedding MBA with Shannon Underwood! | 00:31:33 | |
Wedding MBA is the largest wedding industry conference in the world! Taking place in Las Vegas every November, it's the only way to see all of the best wedding industry educators in one room. Today I'm chatting to Shannon Underwood - Vice President and conference director of Wedding MBA. She takes us behind the scenes of the event and shares why you should be there! Want to join me in Vegas? Use the code BECCA at the checkout for a huge discount! Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:47 Meet Shannon Underwood: Wedding MBA Insights 01:55 The Origins of Wedding MBA 02:56 Growth and Evolution of Wedding MBA 06:53 The Importance of Education and Exhibitors 08:28 Networking and Hands-On Learning 09:16 Who Attends Wedding MBA? 15:48 Maximizing Your Wedding MBA Experience 22:24 Social Events and Networking Opportunities 27:53 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Mentioned in this episode: Join the FREE 'Get Visible and Book More Weddings' audio bootcamp now Feeling stuck? This free training is designed to help you revaluate your wedding business and move forwards towards more bookings. Sign up for free here: https://go.beccapountney.com/bootcamp | |||
| 04 Aug 2022 | Are you successful? Interview with Anna Lundberg | 00:44:31 | |
Do you think you are successful? What does success mean to you and how will you know if you have achieved it in your wedding business? Today I am talking to business mentor and coach Anna Lundberg about how you can redefine success in your life and business! It's a great chat and will leave you feeling a whole lot better about your accomplishments! Take the success check here: https://www.onestepoutside.com/success Listen to Anna's podcast here: https://onestepoutside.com/reimagining-success-podcast/ Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 26 Sep 2024 | Is your wedding business truly accessible? With Lisa Heywood | 00:42:12 | |
When was the last time you reflected on how accessible your wedding business is? In today's episode I am chatting with Ceilidh caller Lisa Heywood about how she's ensuring her wedding business is making strides to being truly accessible to all. In today's episode Lisa shares her insights and challenges us all to think more about what we are doing to be truly inclusive. Lisa has also provided some great resources to help you: 10min video about the social model of Disability Understanding Disability blog series Disabled Eliza talking about planning a wedding as a wheelchair user Lucy Edwards talks about planning as a blind bride-to-be Celebrant Kathryn talks about planning her accessible wedding Time stamps: Starting the Conversation (00:00:00) Becca discusses the importance of asking about access requirements on booking forms. Introduction of Guests (00:00:25) Becca introduces herself and Lisa, highlighting Lisa's expertise in accessible barn dances. Lisa's Background (00:01:41) Lisa shares her journey into the barn dance business, influenced by her family's ceilidh band. Difference Between Barn Dances and Ceilidhs (00:02:35) Lisa explains the distinctions and similarities between barn dances and ceilidhs. What a Barn Dance Involves (00:03:32) Lisa describes the setup and flow of a typical barn dance event. Lisa's Day Job (00:04:58) Lisa discusses her work with Drake Music, focusing on accessibility in the music industry. Understanding Disability (00:06:20) Lisa introduces the social model of disability, emphasizing societal barriers over individual impairments. Defining Accessibility (00:07:51) Lisa explains accessibility as the removal of barriers for disabled individuals to access services. Making Wedding Businesses Accessible (00:09:27) Lisa shares practical steps for wedding businesses to enhance accessibility. Booking Form Questions (00:11:26) Lisa discusses the importance of including access requirement questions on booking forms. Starting the Conversation (00:12:43) Lisa emphasizes the need for open communication about access needs with clients. Overcoming Fears in Conversations (00:14:25) Lisa advises on avoiding assumptions and using respectful language when discussing disability. Language and Terminology (00:15:42) Lisa provides guidance on using appropriate language regarding disability. Avoiding Tokenism (00:18:06) Becca shares an experience at a theme park, highlighting the pitfalls of superficial accessibility measures. User... | |||
| 20 Jun 2024 | 10 mistakes wedding venues are making | 00:35:34 | |
Today I am addressing the 10 mistakes wedding venues are making and how to fix them. Whether you work in a venue, own a venue or are working as a wedding pro, this episode is for you. I cover a wide range of topics from pricing to show rounds and everything in between. Want a training session for your venue team? Get in touch. Time Stamps: Not being transparent on pricing (00:00:00) Becca discusses the importance of transparent pricing on venue websites and the impact on couples' decision-making. Hidden costs (00:02:40) Becca emphasizes the negative impact of hidden costs and the importance of upfront pricing to avoid surprising couples. Complicated booking or inquiry processes (00:08:59) Becca highlights the need to simplify and streamline booking and inquiry processes for better customer experience. Poor customer service interactions on reception (00:11:05) Becca discusses the impact of front desk staff on couples' first impressions and suggests ways to improve customer service. Signage or poor arrival instructions (00:12:46) Becca emphasizes the importance of clear arrival instructions and signage for a stress-free experience for couples visiting the venue. Negative culture amongst staff (00:17:08) Becca discusses the impact of a negative staff culture on customer experience and suggests ways to address it. Recommended supplier list (00:18:52) Becca talks about the importance of regularly updating and refreshing recommended supplier lists for venues. Refreshing Your Supplier List (00:19:54) Importance of regularly reviewing and updating the recommended supplier list for venues. Proactively Engaging with Local Wedding Professionals (00:20:46) The significance of building positive relationships with local wedding professionals and organizing events to engage with them. Creating Opportunities for Local Wedding Professionals (00:22:41) Hosting networking events and photo shoots at the venue to engage with the local community and professionals. Selling the Dream Experience (00:24:36) Emphasizing the importance of providing a positive and memorable experience during venue tours, similar to the wedding day. Visualizing the Dream Venue Setup (00:27:11) Strategies for helping couples visualize the wedding setup, including open events and using visual boards in each room. Avoiding Over-Apologizing (00:29:01) The impact of over-apologizing and how to focus on positive features rather than highlighting the venue's shortcomings. Emphasizing the Positives (00:32:35) Turning potential negatives into positives and proactively addressing any objections during venue tours. Recap of Venue Mistakes (00:33:25) A summary of the key mistakes venues should avoid, including transparency in pricing, customer service, signage, and supplier list management. | |||
| 05 Jan 2023 | Stop hiding - get visible with Renée Dalo | 00:38:09 | |
It's easy to hide in our wedding businesses! We sit behind our screens, and hide behind our work! What difference would it make to your business if you got more visible? Today I'm talking to Renée Dalo, wedding planner and business coach. Renée is on a mission to help wedding pros get more visible and become bold, empowered entrepreneurs! Click to download her free visibility guide. Find out more about Renée: https://reneedalo.com/ Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 13 Mar 2025 | Which wedding business CRM is right for me? With Rachel Parker | 01:07:12 | |
Choosing a CRM (or customer relationship management) tool for your wedding business or venue is a way to streamline your processes and save yourself time. However trying to decide which tool and price point is right for you can be a complete minefield. In today's episode I am talking to Rachel Parker who not only works as part of my team but also owns her own VA business. At the end of last year I set Rachel a research project - to compare 3 of the most popular wedding industry CRM's systems and in today's episode we discuss her findings. We talk about the features they have, the pros and cons to each, the pricing and who they would work best for. If you have been considering a CRM or want to see if yours is the best option for you, then dive into today's episode to find out. Find out more about how the Wedding Pro Agency can help you get set up. Join the Wedding Pro Members Lounge Please note all the links below are affiliate links: Check out BriteBiz (and get 25% off your first two months) Check out Aisle Planner - Use code Becca Time Stamps: 00:28 - Introduction to CRM for Wedding Businesses 04:32 - Understanding CRM: A Comprehensive Overview 08:31 - Introduction to CRM Systems for Wedding Professionals 14:15 - Pros and frustrations with Aisle Planner 20:31 - Pricing and Project Management in Aisle Planner 24:44 - Transitioning to Dubsado: A New Perspective on Project Management Tools 30:22 - Exploring Dubsado's Features and Limitations 37:20 - An Overview of Dubsado's Features and Pricing 44:21 - Integration Features of BriteBiz 50:22 - Limitations with BriteBiz 01:00:01 - Getting Started with CRM Systems 01:06:12 - Building a Community in the Wedding Industry | |||
| 06 Mar 2025 | Is your wedding business inclusive? With Anna Langley | 00:45:02 | |
Is your wedding business inclusive? What does that even mean? Today I am chatting with Anna Langley, cofounder of His Day and author of the Wedding Industry Inclusivity Toolkit. We discuss how we can all do more to be inclusive and how to avoid tokenism in our marketing. There is something for all of us to reflect on in today's discussion as we all strive to do better in this area. Look at Anna's Inclusivity Toolkit Time Stamps: 00:00 - Understanding Inclusivity in Business 08:52 - Understanding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Wedding Industry 21:22 - Understanding Inclusivity in the Wedding Industry 24:03 - Navigating Inclusivity in Marketing 36:46 - Introduction to the Toolkit for Inclusivity Mentioned in this episode: Free Webinar series - Fast Track to Wedding Business Success Join me this March for a FREE webinar series all about how to fast track your wedding business success in the new consumer culture we live in. Live webinars daily from Tues 18th - Thurs 20th March 2025 7:30pm UK I 3:30pm EST. Sign up for your FREE space and to access the recordings | |||
| 31 Aug 2023 | Stop the ghosting in your Wedding Business with Alan Berg | 00:47:18 | |
Fed up of getting ghosted? This episode is here to help. I'm joined by wedding industry legend Alan Berg who is going to be sharing SO much great information about how to respond to directory enquiries and not get ghosted. It's time to stop the ghosting in your wedding business, because it's not a no until it's a no. Get £50 off tickets to Alans event in London Buy Alans books. - Use coupon code 'podcast' for free shipping Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro members lounge Find out more about the wedding pro members lounge: https://go.beccapountney.com/wedpro | |||
| 17 Nov 2022 | Juggling chaos - how to combine life with your wedding business | 00:31:55 | |
Today I am getting a little vulnerable. I am going to be pulling back the curtain on my life to show you how I juggle my wedding business amongst the chaos of every day life! I share my insider tips about how I manage my time, and how I set boundaries. Let me know what you think of today's episode - I would love it if you could leave a review or get in touch via Instagram - I love to hear from you. | |||
| 25 Jul 2024 | Sometimes good things DO come for FREE - with Heidi Thompson | 00:40:21 | |
Today I'm chatting with author, wedding coach and marketing strategist Heidi Thompson. We talk about how the marketing landscape is changing and what couples expectation is in 2024 vs a few years ago. We also discuss her upcoming FREE Book more weddings summit and I ask her the awkward questions you don't want to. Click to get your FREE summit ticket now Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00) Discussing the importance of standing out to attract the right clients. Meet the Host and Guest (00:00:23) Becca introduces herself and Heidi, highlighting their expertise in wedding marketing. Reflecting on Past Episodes (00:01:14) Discussion of Heidi's previous appearance on the podcast two years ago. Introduction of Becca Bot (00:01:35) Becca shares about her new website tool, Becca Bot, for easy podcast episode access. Marketing Shifts in Two Years (00:03:07) Heidi discusses the changes in wedding marketing strategies since the pandemic. Couples’ Research Behavior (00:04:57) Exploring how couples are conducting more in-depth research when choosing vendors. Referrals and Client Choices (00:06:38) The shift in how referrals are perceived and acted upon by couples. Importance of Standing Out (00:08:35) The necessity for wedding professionals to clearly present their unique offerings. Avoiding Price Competition (00:09:21) Strategies for standing out without resorting to lowering prices. Understanding Clients’ Needs (00:10:45) Emphasizing the importance of addressing actual client problems in marketing. Overview of the More Weddings Virtual Summit (00:11:30) Heidi introduces the structure and purpose of the upcoming summit. Summit Dates Announcement (00:12:34) Sharing the dates for the More Weddings Virtual Summit. Addressing Free Summit Concerns (00:13:30) Heidi explains the rationale behind offering the summit for free. Maximizing Summit Participation (00:17:18) Tips on how attendees can get the most value from the summit. Success Stories from Past Summits (00:20:01) Heidi shares examples of attendees who have successfully implemented strategies learned at the summit. Overcoming Fear of Change (00:21:16) Discussing the importance of trying new techniques to improve client follow-up and reduce overwhelm. Managing Overwhelm (00:21:55) Heidi shares strategies for dealing with overwhelming information from educational events. Brain Dumping Strategy (00:22:03) The process of organizing thoughts and tasks to reduce anxiety and create actionable plans. Identifying Action Steps... | |||
| 14 Mar 2024 | What's frustrating your wedding couples with Ciara Crossan | 00:45:32 | |
Today I am chatting with founder of Wedding Dates and Wed Pro Ciara Crossan. Earlier this year Wedding Dates released their 2024 Wedding Industry Report and it was a great read. They surveyed over 1000 couples to find out more about the wedding planning landscape and discovered what frustrates them the most. In this episode I find out more about Ciara's journey and we digest the latest findings and how you can use that data in your own wedding business / venue. Download the 2024 UK Wedding Report Download the 2024 Ireland Wedding Report Find out more about Wedding Dates and Wed Pro Time Stamps: Using TikTok for Wedding Business (00:00:00) Ciara discusses using TikTok for sharing expertise, tips, and personalization in the wedding business. Introduction and Background (00:00:27) Becca introduces Ciara Crossan, CEO and founder of Wedding Dates, and discusses her background and the platform's growth. The Inception of Wedding Dates (00:01:58) Ciara shares the background and inception of Wedding Dates, including the idea's origin and early development. Challenges Faced as a Female Tech Founder (00:05:27) Ciara discusses the challenges she faced as a female tech founder and the resilience required to overcome them. Experience on Dragon's Den (00:09:03) Ciara shares her experience on the Dragon's Den TV show, highlighting the preparation and the positive impact it had on her. Hiring and Building a Team (00:13:07) Ciara discusses the challenges and benefits of hiring and building a team, emphasizing the importance of culture and longevity. Wedding Dates UK Industry Report (00:16:11) Ciara talks about the purpose and history of the industry report, explaining the motivation behind its creation. The survey and report (00:17:02) Ciara discusses the motivation behind conducting surveys and creating industry reports to share with wedding venues and suppliers. The importance of data (00:18:29) Ciara explains the significance of conducting separate reports for the UK and Ireland and the value of the data for understanding industry trends. Incentivising survey participation (00:20:00) Ciara reveals the strategy of offering a prize to incentivize couples to participate in the survey. Couples' feelings during wedding planning (00:21:04) Ciara discusses the surprising statistic that over 70% of couples felt underwhelmed during the wedding planning process and the opportunity it presents for wedding professionals. Common frustrations and challenges (00:26:04) Becca and Ciara discuss common frustrations reported by couples, such as pricing transparency and slow response times, and how wedding pros can address them. Resistance to change (00:29:58) Ciara explains the resistance to automation and price transparency as a fear of change and the importance of self-care in the industry. TikTok for Wedding Inspiration (00:33:16) Couples' use of TikTok for wedding inspiration and how businesses can utilize the platform effectively. Trust Factor in Wedding Businesses (00:34:18) The importance of trust in wedding businesses, particularly in relation to staff turnover in venues. Tech | |||
| 26 Jan 2023 | Wedding Pro - it's time to stop this! | 00:22:52 | |
Today I want to share with you 5 things you need to stop doing in your wedding business! I've seen lots of people making lots of mistakes over the last couple of weeks and I don't want you to fall into the same traps. In my opinion it's time to stop doing all these things! Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 09 Mar 2023 | Are you addicted to your phone? | 00:13:40 | |
Are you addicted to your phone? I think as wedding business owners we all fall into this category - but it's time to take back control! We don't need our phones to have all the power - so today I'm sharing some tips about how I am trying to slowly shift my phone addiction! It's not easy - but putting down the phone will definitely help claw back some much needed time! Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 21 Mar 2024 | Being the bride, not the business owner with Nikita Thorne | 00:43:55 | |
Today I am welcoming back the head of strategy for Guides for Brides - Nikita Thorne. This time we are not talking about wedding directories - instead we are talking about her recent experience of planning her own wedding, and how it's changed the way she thinks about wedding business marketing. Find out more about Guides for Brides Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: Instagram vs TikTok (00:00:00) Comparison of social media platforms and potential content strategies. Chat with Nikita (00:01:02) Discussion with Nikita Thorne about wedding planning experiences and changes in views. Budget and Surprises (00:02:34) Reflection on wedding expenses and unexpected investments. Upselling and Trends (00:04:30) Discussion on upselling and last-minute additions to wedding budgets. Initial Wedding Planning Steps (00:06:20) The first steps taken after getting engaged, including guest lists and venue inquiries. Venue Availability (00:09:45) Challenges and ease of obtaining venue availability information. Choosing a Venue (00:11:43) The importance of marketing and customer service in selecting a wedding venue. Narrowing Down Suppliers (00:13:56) Criteria for selecting trustworthy suppliers and the importance of online presence and responsiveness. Supplier Response Time (00:16:57) The impact of fast or slow supplier response times on decision-making. The excitement curve (00:17:43) The diminishing excitement after inquiry and the importance of fast responses. Pricing transparency (00:18:23) The impact of not having prices on listings or websites for wedding services. Importance of timing for reviews (00:23:34) The challenges of leaving reviews after the wedding and the impact of timing on getting reviews. TikTok as a marketing platform (00:28:41) The growing influence of TikTok in wedding planning and its potential impact on marketing strategies. Adapting to new social media trends (00:30:28) The need to adapt to new social media platforms like TikTok for marketing to younger generations. Couples Taking Longer to Inquire (00:35:56) Couples are taking longer to make decisions, impacting the wedding industry's advertising and booking patterns. Changing Trends in Engagement (00:38:23) Engagement and wedding planning trends are shifting, with more spread-out inquiries and a longer-term strategy needed. Utilizing Wedding Planning Platforms (00:41:07) Couples use wedding planning platforms in diverse ways, emphasizing the need for consistent and accessible information. Importance of Transparent Pricing (00:41:42) The significance of transparent pricing and the need to regularly review and synchronize pricing across all advertising platforms. | |||
| 22 Feb 2024 | Being unapologetically you - celebrating 100 episodes of the podcast! | 00:40:56 | |
In this special 100th episode, the tables are turning and I'm being interviewed by Hannah Rose about the highs and lows of the last decade. I share my journey from television to wedding videography and then to marketing, highlighting the challenges and successes along the way. We discuss the inception of the podcast, memorable guests, and there's even some surprise messages too. Thanks for being part of this journey - here's to the next 100 episodes! Time Stamps: Be Yourself (00:00:00) Becca emphasizes the importance of being authentic and confident in marketing. The Journey (00:01:50) Becca shares her background and how she transitioned from television and radio to the wedding industry. Networking and Marketing (00:05:59) Becca discusses her approach to networking and how she transitioned from videography to marketing in the wedding industry. Starting the Podcast (00:08:33) Becca explains the reasons behind starting her podcast and the initial concerns she had. Guest Insights (00:11:09) Becca reflects on the valuable advice and insights gained from her podcast guests. Pinch Me Moments (00:12:21) Becca shares two memorable moments from her podcast journey, including meeting a well-known Instagram expert. Staying Positive (00:14:01) Becca discusses her positive outlook, personality traits, and how she maintains positivity in her personal and professional life. Personal and Professional Balance (00:16:59) Becca reflects on whether she is the same person at home and at work, emphasizing consistency in her personality. Being True to Yourself (00:17:11) Becca discusses her consistent personality and how she encourages her children to pursue their dreams. Motivation Beyond Money (00:18:16) Becca shares her spiritual beliefs and how they drive her to be generous and make a positive impact. Finding Strength in Faith (00:20:26) Becca recounts a spiritual experience in Cyprus and the impact of faith during challenging times. Dealing with Business Setbacks (00:21:37) Becca reflects on trusting others, facing business challenges, and learning from difficult experiences. Navigating the Impact of COVID-19 (00:23:51) Becca shares the emotional toll of COVID-19 on the wedding industry and her efforts to support her community. Maintaining Authenticity in Business (00:27:49) Becca discusses the challenges of staying true to herself in an industry driven by monetary success. Balancing Chaos and Work (00:30:14) Becca reveals the chaotic nature of her daily life and the importance of time management. Future Plans and Goals (00:32:06) Becca announces her plan to write a book and sets a hard deadline for its completion. Top Tip for Business Success (00:33:41) Becca emphasizes the importance of authenticity in achieving success in business. The importance of being yourself (00:33:52) Encouragement to embrace individuality and stop using it as an excuse for lack of success. Visibility and self-promotion (00:34:53) Advice on the importance of showcasing one's achievements and skills in the wedding industry. Comparing oneself to others (00:35:49) Discussion on the dangers of comparing oneself to others and the value of self-assessment and progress tracking. Celebrating Becca's 100th episode (00:36:32) Messages from colleagues and friends congratulating Becca on her podcast's milestone and expressing gratitude for her... | |||
| 09 Feb 2023 | Adapting your wedding business alongside your life - with Becky Harley Photography | 00:42:26 | |
Today I'm chatting with Becky Harley Photography about her business journey. Becky has been in my world since 2016 and I have loved watching her business evolve and adapt over the last 6.5 years. Today she is open and honest about her photography business - the good and the bad! We talk about getting her business set up, starting a family and adapting her business as she grows her brand photography offering. If you need some inspiration - whichever point in your journey you are at - Becky's story will help. Find out about Becky's brand photography: Find out about Becky's wedding photography business: Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 19 Oct 2023 | Lessons learnt from the Wedding Business Retreat | 00:21:18 | |
Last week we ran our annual wedding business retreat. It was an amazing week, and importantly there were lots of learnings that I wanted to share with you. This weeks episode covers a wide variety of topics from customer service to listening to your business instincts. Join me as I share with you all of the lessons learnt from this years wedding business retreat. Want to be part of an amazing wedding business community to support your business as it grows? Take a look at my Wedding Pro Members Lounge. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: The impact of good customer service [00:04:00] Becca highlights the exceptional customer service experience at Beamish Hall and emphasizes its importance in creating a positive guest experience. Recognizing the stage of your business and relevant training [00:07:11] Understanding that different stages of business require different levels of help and training, and the importance of focusing on what is relevant to your current stage. The importance of convenience [00:11:02] People are willing to pay more for convenience, as shown by Becca's experience of ordering Starbucks coffee to the hotel. Educating your audience [00:13:52] Offering simple tips and education in your content helps you stand out as an expert in your field. Trusting your instincts [00:15:40] Don't doubt yourself or seek approval from others. Trust your gut instincts when making decisions for your business. The importance of a supportive community [00:18:44] Becca emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and encouraging individuals in the wedding industry. Benefits of finding your people [00:19:53] Becca encourages listeners to seek out like-minded individuals in the wedding industry to inspire and celebrate each other's successes. Final thoughts and invitation to join a community [00:21:00] Becca concludes by urging listeners to find their people, be authentic, and not take business too seriously. | |||
| 15 Sep 2022 | How to respond to a national tragedy | 00:14:23 | |
This week has been a moment in history - but as a small business owner how do we respond in times of national tragedy? In today's episode I explore how we navigate these difficult moments and share some tips to help you make a plan. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 25 Jan 2024 | Why Budget-Savvy Doesn't Mean Cheap with Jessica Bishop | 00:36:11 | |
Today I'm chatting with Jessica Bishop, the founder of The Budget Savvy Bride, about the importance of price transparency in the wedding industry and why budget-savvy doesn't mean cheap. We dispel the myths associated with budget weddings and chat about the benefits of vendors being transparent with their pricing to avoid misunderstandings with potential clients. We talk about the value of sharing expertise, networking, and considering free marketing opportunities to reach the right audience. Find out more about the Budget Savvy Bride Listen to the Bouquet Toss Podcast Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Transparency and Pricing (00:00:00) Importance of transparency in pricing and dispelling misconceptions about budget weddings. Introduction to Jessica Bishop (00:00:57) Becca introduces Jessica Bishop, founder of The Budget Savvy Bride, and her website's purpose. Jessica's Wedding Planning Experience (00:02:06) Jessica shares her personal experience planning a budget-friendly wedding during the recession and creating The Budget Savvy Bride website. Evolution of The Budget Savvy Bride (00:03:34) The evolution of The Budget Savvy Bride website and its resources for couples, including real wedding galleries and free printables. Vendor Directory and Services (00:06:38) Introduction of the vendor directory, the Savvy Wedding Guide, and the aim to connect couples with vendors. Dispelling Myths About Budget Weddings (00:07:18) Clarifying that being budget-savvy does not mean being cheap and the importance of making informed financial decisions. Serving Budget-Conscious Couples (00:10:32) Discussing ways for vendors to serve budget-conscious couples without undervaluing their services. Importance of Price Transparency (00:15:13) Emphasizing the importance of price transparency for vendors and the benefits it offers to both vendors and couples. Displaying Prices for Couples (00:18:21) Suggestions for vendors to display starting prices or average investment to pre-qualify couples. Transparency in Pricing (00:18:55) Importance of public pricing to avoid awkward situations and ghosting, and the potential embarrassment for couples. Real Wedding Cost Breakdown (00:20:13) Detailed breakdown of wedding costs, the granular approach, and the value of transparency for vendors and couples. Revolutionizing Styled Shoots (00:22:02) Advocating for price breakdowns in styled shoots to provide realistic cost expectations for couples. Budget Savvy Marketing for Wedding Pros (00:26:24) Tips for budget-savvy marketing, including working with niche publications, free promotion strategies, and leveraging affiliate relationships. Expanding Vendor... | |||
| 12 Dec 2024 | Moving your wedding business to Spain! With Denise Whelan | 00:38:31 | |
Today I am chatting with one of my Wedding Pro Members - Denise Whelan. Denise tells the story about how she transformed her life and her career almost by accident. She now lives in Spain and works as a wedding celebrant and destination wedding planner and is loving life in the sunshine. Her story is inspiring and she has lots of learnings to share along the way. Join the Wedding Pro Members Lounge Time Stamps: 00:00 - Navigating Difficult Relationships 01:12 - Denise's Journey into Weddings 14:45 - Transitioning to Wedding Planning in Spain 19:20 - Embracing Opportunities in Destination Weddings 25:11 - Navigating the Highs and Lows of the Wedding Industry Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 15 Jun 2023 | Owning your own wedding venue - With Donna Newman | 00:31:11 | |
Today I'm chatting with the co- owner of The Granary at Fawsley - Donna Newman. We talk about how she ended up owning a wedding venue, the highs and the lows along the way and how she builds relationships with wedding pros that she recommends. We also talk about her experience of the Wedding Business Retreat that she attended last year and why she thinks you should book to join us in 2023. Want to join this years Wedding Business Retreat? Book your room now: https://go.beccapountney.com/retreat23 Find out more about the Granary at Fawsley: Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: Sharing experiences with other wedding businesses [00:00:00] Donna and Becca discuss the benefits of networking with other wedding businesses and learning from each other's experiences. Donna's journey from civil service to wedding venue director [00:02:15] Donna shares how she went from working in the civil service to becoming the director of a wedding venue, and how her husband's background in hospitality played a role. Growing the wedding business at The Granary at Fawsley [00:05:09] Donna talks about how they started doing weddings at The Granary at Fawsley, from starting with a bare agricultural barn to investing in it and getting all the proper licenses to become a wedding venue. They also discuss their approach to keeping the number of weddings they hold each year small and manageable. Struggles of running a wedding venue [00:08:53] Donna talks about the challenges of running a wedding venue, including finding the right staff and dealing with the pandemic. Establishing a successful wedding venue [00:10:01] Donna discusses how they have established themselves as a successful wedding venue and the recognition they have received. Working with a partner [00:13:01] Donna talks about how she and her partner have made it work by separating their roles and keeping boundaries, and how their children are involved in the business. Supplier Relationship [00:15:59] Donna and Becca discuss how they navigate the supplier relationship in the wedding industry, including how they find people to work with and how they build reciprocal relationships. Benefits of Attending a Wedding Business Retreat [00:19:02] Donna talks about her experience attending a wedding business retreat and the benefits of being in a room with other wedding businesses, sharing experiences, and learning together. Takeaways from the Wedding Business Retreat [00:21:13] Donna shares her biggest takeaways from attending the wedding business retreat, including the importance of consistency, time-blocking, and narrowing down... | |||
| 20 Jul 2023 | Overcoming Adversity and Scaling Your Wedding Business - With Kerry Curl | 00:43:29 | |
Today I am chatting with Kerry Curl - former hair and makeup artist turned business coach. We talk openly about Kerry's wedding business success journey and how her business has evolved. We talk about overcoming adversity and scaling your wedding business for success. If you want an inspiring wedding business story - this is it! Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: The Start of Kerry's Journey [00:01:18] Kerry talks about how she got started in the wedding hair and makeup industry and her initial doubts and fears. Transition to Full-Time [00:03:47] Kerry discusses how she transitioned from doing hair and makeup as a side hustle to making it her full-time career. Mistakes in the Early Days [00:06:26] Kerry reflects on the mistakes she made in the early days of her business, including not having a website and approaching photographers without any authority or positioning. The importance of cultivating relationships with venue managers and coordinators [00:09:41] Kerry discusses how she noticed that most of her leads were coming from recommendations and how she started building relationships with venue managers and coordinators to expand her reach. The experience of hiring a mentor and the challenges faced [00:10:11] Kerry talks about her decision to hire a mentor, the initial skepticism in the industry, and her disappointing experience with her first mentor. Learning from a bad mentoring experience and finding the right fit [00:13:20] Kerry shares how she didn't let her bad experience deter her from seeking the right mentor, the importance of finding the right person to work with, and how it made her a better mentor for her own clients. The mindset shift [00:19:38] Kerry discusses the importance of shifting her mindset from being an individual artist to being a team leader. Choosing the right team [00:20:15] Kerry talks about the process of selecting the right people for her team and the importance of building strong relationships with them. Marketing mistakes and business growth [00:23:54] Kerry reflects on the highs and lows of her business journey, including the mistake of marketing her business to everyone and the importance of hiring a mentor for guidance. The importance of personal branding [00:29:30] Tips on how to separate yourself from the competition and grow a personal brand in the wedding industry. Acquiring business skills [00:30:40] The need for hair and makeup artists to acquire business skills in order to be successful. Getting first clients without appearing desperate [00:31:34] Tips on how to attract clients without resorting to low prices or giving away services for free. The highs and lows of entrepreneurship [00:39:41] Kerry discusses the challenges and rewards of being a... | |||
| 29 Aug 2024 | How to stop holding yourself back with Barbara Nixon | 00:53:05 | |
Today is the final part of our summer series, where I have been sharing content that is usually reserved for my wedding pro members. Today we hear from Barbara Nixon as she shares her tips and advice on how to stop holding yourself back! Want to join the Wedding Pro Members Lounge? Click here. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: Introduction to Mindset and Comfort Zone (00:00:00) Discussion on how the subconscious brain prioritizes safety, leading to a false sense of comfort. Overview of the Podcast Episode (00:01:05) Becca introduces the episode's focus on actionable strategies for wedding business owners. Wedding Pro Members Lounge (00:01:07) Details about the members lounge and its training resources for wedding business owners. Training Categories Explained (00:02:01) Becca outlines the different sections of her training platform: Build, Grow, and Advance. Importance of Mindset in Business (00:02:01) Discussion on how mindset affects business success, beyond just practical tips. Introduction of Barbara Nixon (00:03:42) Barbara shares her background as a success coach and experience in helping business owners. Interactive Session Invitation (00:04:57) Barbara encourages audience participation and sharing their experiences in the wedding industry. Barbara prompts listeners to reflect on how they hold themselves back in their businesses. Discussion on Imposter Syndrome (00:08:35) Barbara explains imposter syndrome and its impact on self-perception in business. Frustration of Holding Back (00:10:33) Exploration of the exhausting nature of self-doubt and its effects on business ambitions. The Quest for Freedom (00:13:28) Barbara discusses the desire for freedom in business and the need to overcome self-imposed limits. Understanding the Subconscious Mind (00:15:29) Insight into how the subconscious mind keeps individuals in their comfort zones for safety. Comfort Zone vs. Familiarity (00:16:27) Barbara redefines comfort zone as familiarity and explains its implications for personal growth. Common Blocks to Success (00:17:22) Introduction to common mental blocks that hinder business growth, setting the stage for solutions. Hiding or Playing Small (00:18:17) Discussion on the common block of not being visible and its impact on business. Overcoming Self-Doubt (00:19:21) Sharing personal experiences of self-doubt and the struggle to market oneself effectively. The Importance of Visibility (00:20:22) Encouragement to recognize the need for visibility in business and the fear of... | |||
| 01 Aug 2024 | How to brand your wedding business like Air BnB - Summer series pt 1 | 00:41:04 | |
This August I'm letting you behind the curtains to see inside the Wedding Pro Members Lounge, my private members club for wedding business owners. Every month we have an amazing guest expert training, so I have been digging into the members lounge archives to share some of the training's with you. Today you will here from branding expert Danny Matthews about 'how to brand your business like Air B and B.' Want to be part of the Wedding Pros Members lounge to get the best month training every month? Time Stamps: Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00) Becca introduces the podcast's special series, highlighting the Wedding Pro Membership and its training programs. Overview of the Wedding Pro Success Ladder (00:00:50) Becca explains the three stages of the training program: build, growth, and advanced, tailored for different business earnings. Introduction of Guest Expert Danny (00:01:47) Becca introduces Danny, who will discuss branding and how to create a standout brand in the wedding industry. Danny's Instagram Handle (00:02:24) Danny shares his Instagram handle, emphasizing his unique name and inviting audience interaction. Discussion on Branding Like Airbnb (00:03:05) Danny begins discussing branding strategies, using Airbnb as a case study for effective communication and positioning. Importance of Consumer Behavior Changes (00:05:07) Danny highlights shifts in consumer behavior and the need for businesses to adapt their marketing strategies accordingly. Context of Danny's Work (00:07:15) Danny shares his experience working with diverse businesses, from small firms to high-growth startups, and the impact of media. Consumer Buying Habits Over the Years (00:09:37) Danny prompts the audience to reflect on how their purchasing behaviors have changed since 2019. Shift to Subscription Services (00:10:39) Danny discusses the growing trend of subscription services and how it has changed his own buying habits. Adapting Business Models (00:12:42) Danny encourages businesses to explore new models, such as fixed-price packages, to diversify income streams. Conscious Purchasing Decisions (00:13:39) Danny asks the audience if they have become more aware of their purchasing habits and the origins of their products. Sustainability in Consumer Choices (00:14:50) Danny emphasizes the increasing consumer focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing in their purchasing decisions. Trends in Secondhand Purchasing (00:17:14) Danny notes the rise of secondhand marketplaces during the pandemic, reflecting changing consumer values towards consumption. Shift from Consumption to Participation (00:18:15) Danny discusses the transition from mere consumption to becoming part of a community or tribe in purchasing behaviors. Introduction to the Electric Vehicle Community (00:19:22) Danny shares a humorous anecdote about connecting with another electric vehicle owner, highlighting community identity. Shift in Consumer Identity (00:20:22) Discussion on how consumer purchases now reflect personal identity and broader societal values beyond mere consumption. Learning from Big Corporations (00:21:33) Danny emphasizes the importance of observing larger companies for marketing strategies based on... | |||
| 27 Apr 2023 | Are you falling out of love with your wedding business? | 00:39:43 | |
Today I am chatting with Kelly Chandler, former wedding planner turned consultant. We talk about her own journey in the wedding industry and how to make changes when you feel like you have fallen out of love with your wedding business. We discuss the importance of delegating tasks, seeking help, and focusing on your strengths and passions. Find out more about Kelly on her website: https://www.kellychandlerconsulting.co.uk/ Ready to level up your wedding business this year? Take a look at my brand new signature programme: The Wedding Pro Business Builder Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Starting a Wedding Planning Business [00:01:48] Kelly Chandler talks about how she got into the wedding industry and started her own wedding planning business. Transitioning from Wedding Planning to Consulting [00:07:18] Kelly Chandler discusses how she transitioned from wedding planning to consulting for wedding venues, and how this opportunity presented itself at the right time for her. Falling Out of Love with the Wedding Business [00:05:34] Kelly Chandler talks about how she fell out of love with wedding planning and how it took her a long time to recognize it. She also discusses the changes in her life that coincided with this realization. Signs of falling out of love with your business [00:07:49] Speaker 2 and Speaker 0 discuss signs that indicate falling out of love with one's business, such as reacting negatively to new inquiries and feeling unexcited about upcoming meetings. Dealing with doubts and imposter syndrome [00:10:28] Speaker 2 and Speaker 0 talk about the internal monologue that can make it difficult to move on from a business and how to deal with doubts and imposter syndrome. Using testimonials to combat self-doubt [00:13:01] Speaker 0 shares how she used testimonials to combat self-doubt and imposter syndrome when transitioning from wedding planning to consultancy. Balancing Multiple Roles [00:15:34] Speaker 0 discusses how she balanced being a wedding planner and a venue consultant for two years before transitioning fully into venue consulting. Recognizing the Need for Change [00:16:16] Speaker 2 asks for tips on how to redesign a business or start a new venture. Speaker 0 emphasizes the importance of recognizing the need for change and doing deep work to identify values and skills. Shaking Up Business Services [00:19:19] Speaker 0 gives an example of how wedding planners can shake up their business by offering a more packaged service instead of a full planning service. She also emphasizes the importance of regularly doing deep work to reassess priorities and make changes accordingly. Staying in love with your business [00:27:40] Kelly and Becca discuss how to keep things fresh and bring new ideas to the fore to stay in love with your business. Kelly emphasizes the importance of... | |||
| 29 Sep 2022 | Why selling doesn't need to be scary! | 00:18:43 | |
Do you find selling in your wedding business difficult? In today's episode I want to share with you how to change your mindset so that selling in your wedding business becomes easier. Sales doesn't need to be scary, it's just solving a problem for your couples. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 24 Nov 2022 | Solving a problem and starting a wedding business - interview with Amy Nelson from Wedding Day Dance. | 00:30:38 | |
How did you start your wedding business? Did you have a fully planned out idea or was it more of an evolution? Today's guest Amy Nelson from Wedding Day Dance UK was an 'accidental' entrepreneur. Amy went to a wedding day as a guest, spotted a problem and realised she could provide the solution! In today's episode Amy is sharing her business journey and how she went from teaching dance to owning a UK wide first dance agency. Amy is one of my Wedding Pro lounge members and you could be too! Head to the link below to find out more. | |||
| 07 Jul 2022 | Relaxation and Sleep meditation with Kath Routledge | 00:23:53 | |
Today's wedding pro podcast episode is a little bit different! This is one to download and save to your phone so you can use it whenever it's needed! As a wedding business owner you may find it hard to switch off, relax and get to sleep - if that's the case then this episode is for you. Last month in the wedding pro members lounge I invited Kath from Relax with Kath in to run a sleep and relaxation session for my wedding business members. I've decided to take that session and turn it into a podcast so that you can access it whenever you need to relax! Please don't listen to this episode while driving - instead find somewhere comfy and take some time to relax with this sleep meditation. | |||
| 19 Dec 2024 | Finding your hyper niche - with Jen Sulak from Weirdo Weddings | 00:53:32 | |
Today I am talking with Jen Sulak about how she found her hyper niche in the wedding industry with her brand 'Weirdo Weddings'. Originally known as 'Pink Light Images', Jen went through a transformational time in 2020 and realised she needed to lean further into her authentic self, and Weirdo Weddings was born. In this episode we discuss how to 'niche' well, how to show up yourself online and why you need to find your people in the wedding industry. Time stamps: 00:08 - Building a Cohesive Brand Identity 04:22 - Overcoming Intimidation in the Wedding Industry 10:27 - The Journey into Wedding Photography 17:42 - Embracing the Weirdo Weddings Niche 25:01 - Finding Your Niche and Doing the Work 27:56 - Embracing Creativity and Niche Marketing 34:50 - Embracing Authenticity and Overcoming Fear 42:01 - Finding Your Community Mentioned in this episode: Work with me in 2025 Want to work with me in 2025? Here's 3 ways we can work together: 1) One to One with an in-person marketing workshop or online strategy session 2) Work with us at the Wedding Pro Agency 3) Join the Wedding Pro Members Lounge for 2025 | |||
| 14 Jul 2022 | Growing your wedding business with Instagram - with Sue B Zimmerman | 00:33:24 | |
Are you ready to understand how to grow your wedding business with Instagram? Today I am joined by THE Instagram expert herself, Sue B Zimmerman. In today's episodes we discuss the different 'Instagram neighbourhoods', we review some of my members Instagram accounts (eeek) and Sue drops SO many great Instagram tips and tricks and throws in a few free resources too! Whatever area of the wedding industry you are in - Instagram is definitely a marketing tool you need to be using! Click to find Sue on Instagram 'The Instagram Expert' Resources mentioned in today's episode: Here are the links to the accounts Sue reviewed in today's episodes: J Lawrence Photography (wedding photographer) Pink Peony Wedding (wedding stationer and stylist) JN Sounds (wedding DJ) Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 03 Nov 2022 | Level up your wedding business website with Emily Lee | 00:27:25 | |
Is your wedding business website doing it's job, or is it a barrier to couples booking you? Today I'm chatting with wedding business website designer Emily Lee from By Emily Jane! We talk about common mistakes you may be making with your wedding website, error 404 pages and quick fixes. Click to get the free download from Emily Click to find the mobile friendly test tool Click to listen back to episode 8 of the podcast all about blogging Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 10 Apr 2025 | The Wedding Industry Report 2025 - with Ciara Crossan | 00:49:42 | |
Today I am chatting with Ciara Crossan, Founder of Wedding Pro and Wedding Dates. Each year they release an excellent wedding industry report that I LOVE. In today's episode we dive deep into the stats to see what you should be paying attention to in 2025. Download the 2025 UK wedding pro by wedding dates report Download the 2025 Ireland wedding pro by wedding dates report Join the Wedding Pro Members Lounge Time Stamps: 00:05 - The Importance of Virtual Tours in Wedding Planning 00:37 - Introduction to the 2025 Wedding Industry Report 11:08 - The Rise of Gen Z and Marketing Strategies 21:38 - The Impact of AI on Wedding Planning 33:23 - The Rise of Ghosting in Wedding Planning 37:37 - Understanding Ghosting in the Wedding Industry Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro members lounge Find out more about the wedding pro members lounge: https://go.beccapountney.com/wedpro | |||
| 21 Jul 2022 | Help! Surviving the school holidays as a wedding business owner! | 00:21:53 | |
EEEK the 6 week summer holiday is nearly upon us, and if you are anything like me, you have a mild sense of panic! How are you going to run your wedding business whilst also having children at home! I get it - it's the same here which is why I've recorded this podcast! In today's episode I'm going to be sharing some tips to help you keep your wedding business running over the summer and I'm going to be totally honest about how it goes in my house! You've got this! Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 26 May 2022 | Eeek did I do the right thing?? Lessons learnt in Turkey! | 00:23:59 | |
Ever get that uncomfortable feeling when you make a business decision and then think did I do the right thing? Last week I spoke at the IADWP conference in Turkey and it was the most incredible experience, but I would be lying if I said I didn't have that feeling for a moment when I stepped off the plane. In today's episode I'm going to be sharing about what I learnt out in Turkey and how that can help you in your wedding business. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 23 May 2024 | Corporate jobs, family life and wedding photography with Kevin Lines | 00:38:27 | |
Today I am chatting with one of my founding Wedding Pro members Kevin Lines. What I love about Kevin is the way he keeps his work life varied with a mix of corporate work and wedding photography. He has a 'family first' mindset whilst also striving to bring in more income - it's a great conversation. Join the Wedding Pro Members Lounge Time Stamps: The journey to photography (00:00:00) Kevin discusses the importance of family and his background in photography, leading up to his career in press photography. Transition to wedding photography (00:08:16) Kevin shares how he initially didn't want to do weddings but ended up enjoying it, leading to his first clients and the snowball effect. Marketing strategies (00:10:25) Kevin discusses his unconventional approach to marketing, emphasizing the power of word of mouth and personal connections over traditional advertising. Differences between corporate and wedding photography (00:18:11) Kevin explains the differences in corporate and wedding photography, how he found corporate photography connections, and the importance of networking. Corporate Photography Challenges (00:20:21) Kevin discusses the challenges of corporate photography, including the limited creativity and the need to provide a defined brand style for clients. Setting Rates in Corporate Photography (00:23:13) Kevin explains the process of setting rates for corporate photography, including considerations for day rates, half-day rates, and adjusting based on the client's budget. Balancing Work and Family (00:26:35) Kevin shares his strategies for balancing work and family, including blocking out days for family time and limiting weekend work. Benefits of Community Membership (00:31:28) Kevin highlights the benefits of being part of a community, such as sharing business issues with like-minded professionals and building a network for support. Avoiding Comparison in Business (00:34:37) Kevin emphasizes the importance of not comparing oneself to competitors and focusing on individual strengths and unique selling points. Conclusion and Contact Information (00:35:38) Becca and Kevin wrap up the conversation, and Kevin shares his website for those interested in reaching out to him for advice or enquiries. Mentioned in this episode: Summer Support! Looking for support with your wedding business or venue this season? I have put together some options for you. Wedding Pro Agency: Hand over some of your admin tasks to my team to give you some time back this summer. From social media posting to website updates, email sequences and crm set up, there are lots of ways we can help you. One to One support: I have two spaces to offer one to one support from June - August to help keep you in track. If you are interested, drop me an email: becca@beccapountney.com | |||
| 31 Oct 2024 | Writing a wedding business book - the full behind the scenes | 00:43:13 | |
Tomorrow my book is officially published and it has been quite the journey to get there. In today's episode I take you behind the scenes of the rollercoaster ride that has been getting this book out into the world, and I even read some extracts to wet your appetite. Done is better than perfect is available to order now: https://beccapountney.com/book/ Use the code PODCAST to get free shipping to the UK and discounted shipping worldwide. Time Stamps: 00:00 - Introduction to My Book Journey 00:08 - Why I Wrote This Book 00:16 - Behind the Scenes: The Writing Process 01:09 - The Challenges of Writing a Book 05:19 - The Importance of Mindset 12:05 - Finding My Writing Style 19:01 - The Role of an Editor 21:27 - Getting Endorsements and Feedback 27:38 - Launching the Kickstarter Campaign 33:55 - The Final Steps to Publication 40:00 - Conclusion and Next Steps | |||
| 15 Dec 2022 | Avoiding burnout - Interview with Jordan Kentris | 00:31:01 | |
Burnout - we all want to avoid it, yet as wedding business owners we are all edging ever closer to it. In today's episode I am chatting with Jordan Kentris to find out what steps he has taken to help with his own burn out and what action he has implemented to stop it happening again. Jordan Kentris is the founder and owner of A Good Day, a boutique design firm that creates one-of-a-kind wedding stationery. You can find out more about him on his website and Instagram. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 06 Feb 2025 | Why brand photography is essential with Gillian Devine | 00:42:32 | |
Today I am discussing why brand photographer is essential with Gillian Devine. We discuss Gillians own journey, why she thinks brand photography matters and she shares tips to help you get the most out of your next brand shoot. Watch the FREE 5 day marketing course Time Stamps: 00:00 - Understanding Visual Marketing 04:33 - The Evolution of a Brand Photographer 11:32 - Navigating Personal and Professional Growth 12:50 - The Journey to Spain and Beyond 28:45 - The Importance of Brand Photography 30:14 - The Importance of Brand Photography | |||
| 22 Dec 2022 | Happy Christmas Wedding Pros | 00:03:23 | |
I am fully in the festive spirit so it's just a mini episode from me today! I'm sharing some exciting plans for 2023 and encouraging you to get that plan in place! Want to hear more about my new programme for 2023? You can join the wait list here: Here's to a great Christmas, I will be back to help you on your wedding business journey from January 5th! Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 02 Nov 2023 | 8 ways to grow your wedding business this winter | 00:16:43 | |
It's that funny time of year, enquiries are down, wedding season has slowed and the whole world is thinking about Christmas. With 2 whole months until the end of the year, now is the time to get on top of the admin, build new business connections and get all the jobs done that you never have time for. In this episode I am sharing 8 things you can do this winter to make a positive impact on your wedding business. Join the Wedding Pro Members Lounge Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: Take a Break (00:00:56) Importance of taking a break during the quieter season to enjoy family time and recharge. Don't Panic (00:01:44) Advice to not panic when inquiries are quiet and to ground oneself with logic and look at the facts. Brush Up on Learning (00:03:18) Using the quieter season to learn new skills, brush up on knowledge, and invest in personal development. Work on connections (00:09:39) Meeting up with other wedding professionals This topic discusses the importance of organizing meetups with other wedding professionals, whether it's for networking events or simply grabbing a cup of coffee. Collaborate with venues (00:10:26) Connecting with wedding venues This topic suggests reaching out to wedding venues during the quieter season to build relationships and explore potential collaborations, such as taking photos, recording Instagram reels, or providing services for their events. Automate processes (00:13:24) Automating business processes This topic highlights the benefits of automating business processes, such as email sequences and lead generation, during the quieter season to save time and improve efficiency in the future. It also mentions the possibility of outsourcing certain tasks and organizing files and finances. | |||
| 05 May 2022 | Blogging - what's the point and how do I get started? | 00:28:18 | |
Today I'm talking about why blogging is still an important marketing tactic for your wedding business! I am going to be sharing why I think blogging matters for wedding business owners and venues just like you and I'm also going to be sharing some top tips to help make the whole process easier for you to get going with. If you or your venue would be interested in a more in-depth 2 hour interactive blogging workshop with me, just get in touch! Email: becca@beccapountney.com Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 22 Aug 2024 | How to convert digital wedding enquiries with Alan Berg | 00:45:15 | |
It's summer 2024 and over the month of August I am sharing training usually reserved for my members only! Today I am sharing one of my post popular videos - a training session all about how to convert digital wedding enquiries with Alan Berg. I love his straight forward, simple attitude and I think you will too. This is one of two training sessions that Alan has recorded for the members lounge. If you would like to listen to the other one, why not consider becoming a member? Time Stamps: Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00) Becca introduces the podcast and highlights actionable tips for wedding business owners. Guest Introduction (00:01:02) Becca welcomes Alan Berg, noting his expertise and the focus of today's session. Alan's Background (00:03:14) Alan shares his 25+ years of experience in the wedding industry and his journey. Location Discussion (00:03:59) Alan describes his home in New Jersey and its agricultural charm. Transition to Presentation (00:04:36) Becca hands over to Alan for his presentation, setting the stage for insights. Overview of Enquiry Response (00:05:16) Alan outlines the importance of effective communication after receiving inquiries. Understanding Client Behavior (00:06:12) Alan discusses why potential clients may not call and their digital habits. The Importance of Conversation (00:08:50) Alan emphasizes continuing the conversation started by potential clients. Eight Tips Introduction (00:09:44) Alan introduces eight tips for converting inquiries into sales. Tip 1: Real Conversations (00:09:44) Encourages genuine conversation, reflecting personal voice in communications. Tip 2: Quick Responses (00:10:39) Stresses the importance of responding quickly to inquiries to secure clients. Tip 3: Mirroring Tone (00:11:46) Advises matching the tone of the client's inquiry for better rapport. Tip 4: Mirroring Energy (00:12:41) Encourages reflecting the excitement level of the client in responses. Tip 5: Concise Communication (00:13:36) Recommends keeping initial replies short to fit on a smartphone screen. Tip 6: Answer Relevant Questions (00:15:33) Advises against volunteering information unless clients ask specific questions. Tip 7: End with a Question (00:17:22) Stresses the importance of concluding messages with a question to elicit responses. Tip 8: Avoid Dead Ends (00:17:22) Warns against ending messages with statements that do not encourage replies. Introduction to Low Commitment Questions (00:18:15) Alan explains the importance of low commitment questions to engage potential clients effectively. Client Response Example (00:19:07) Alan shares a successful Facebook Messenger interaction demonstrating prompt client engagement. Short and Friendly Replies (00:19:58) Highlighting concise and enthusiastic responses that maintain client interest without overwhelming them. Avoiding Attachments in Communication (00:20:49) Alan advises against sending attachments, emphasizing the importance of conversational communication. Consequences of Sending Attachments (00:21:41) Discussing how attachments can hinder responses and... | |||
| 19 May 2022 | Lessons learnt as a bride - interview with Rachel from Veiled Productions | 00:37:11 | |
Rachel from Veiled Productions is my longest serving client, she owns a successful wedding videography business and recently got married herself! Whilst planning her own wedding Rachel realised she was picking up lots of advice along the way that she could use to improve her own business, and in today's interview she wants to share that with you too! You can find out more about Rachel and Veiled Productions here: https://www.veiledproductions.co.uk/ Want to get access to my inner circle of wedding pros? Why not join the Wedding Pro members lounge! Even better you can use the coupon code PODCAST and get the first month for just £1. In today's episode we also mention Studio Ninja! Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 21 Apr 2022 | Help! What can I do when it all feels too much? | 00:29:42 | |
Owning your own wedding business is great - but if we are honest sometimes it can all get too much and we start to feel exhausted and overwhelmed! In today's episode I'm going to be sharing with you some ideas to help you avoid getting to this point, and some advice for if you are already there! Need additional help? Take a look at the link below: https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-health-issues/stress/ Want to join my Wedding Pro members community where I can support you to grow your business? Take a look below: Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 27 Feb 2025 | The Marketing Theme Park - what's changed in 2025. | 00:28:19 | |
This year I invented a brand new term to describe the marketing landscape in 2025 - introducing The Marketing Theme Park™. We are no longer living in a consumer culture that reflects the traditional marketing funnel, so it's time to embrace a new marketing era. In today's episode I walk you through my concept and explain how you can make changes in your wedding business to reflect it. Want to share the concept wider? Feel free but please credit me! Want me to speak on stage at your event? Get in touch! Time Stamps: 00:01 - The End of the Marketing Funnel 03:09 - Understanding the Marketing Theme Park 12:05 - Navigating the Attention Economy 14:25 - Navigating the Marketing Theme Park 24:50 - Navigating the Marketing Theme Park Mentioned in this episode: Free Webinar series - Fast Track to Wedding Business Success Join me this March for a FREE webinar series all about how to fast track your wedding business success in the new consumer culture we live in. Live webinars daily from Tues 18th - Thurs 20th March 2025 7:30pm UK I 3:30pm EST. Sign up for your FREE space and to access the recordings | |||
| 04 Apr 2024 | Stepping out of your comfort zone with Bernadette Chapman | 00:46:56 | |
Today I'm chatting with Bernadette Chapman. Having spent 21 years in the wedding industry and being the sole founder of the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners, recently Bernadette has made some big business decisions. We dive deep into how she has stepped away from the career she loves, the state of the wedding industry in 2024 and how we can all strive to be better at the business of weddings. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: Procrastination and Subconscious Resistance (00:00:00) Explanation of why people procrastinate and resist change due to subconscious fear. Introduction to Bernadette Chapman (00:00:24) Becca Pountney introduces Bernadette Chapman, a veteran in the wedding planning industry, and discusses her experience and insights. Starting a Wedding Planning Business in the Pre-Internet Era (00:01:36) Bernadette Chapman shares her experience of starting a wedding planning business before the internet era, including the challenges and lack of resources. Challenges of Getting First Clients (00:05:04) Discussion about the challenges of getting the first wedding planning clients and the unexpected experience of Bernadette's first wedding. Launch of the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners (00:10:07) Bernadette discusses the reasons for launching the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners and its impact on the industry. Common Mistakes in Wedding Planning Business (00:12:42) Insights into the common mistakes wedding planners make, including overemphasis on aesthetics and the importance of training and education. The Misconception of Instant Success in the Wedding Industry (00:15:37) Discussion about the misconception of instant success in the wedding industry and the importance of hard work, experience, and adaptation. Importance of Onboarding for a Smooth Client Experience (00:19:26) Bernadette emphasizes the importance of onboarding for creating a positive first impression, setting boundaries, and automating processes for a smoother client experience. The importance of quick response and automation (00:22:04) Clients' expectations for immediate answers, automation systems, and quick processes in the wedding planning business. Efficient onboarding process (00:24:01) Creating a smooth and quick onboarding process for clients, including proposal, contract, deposit, and welcome email. Using systems to streamline processes (00:25:16) Discussion about using software and systems to automate processes, making it easier for clients to pay and streamline operations. Challenges and decision to close the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners (00:27:20) The emotional impact and reasons behind the decision to close the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners after 21 years, including the need for joy and the toll of emotional support. Reflections on entrepreneurship and business decisions (00:32:06) The pressure to grow a business, the importance... | |||
| 02 Mar 2023 | How to avoid marketing overwhelm - with the Garter Girl! | 00:33:34 | |
Do you ever feel overwhelmed when it comes to marketing your wedding business? Today I'm chatting with Julianne Smith, founder of the 'Garter Girl' about exactly this. We talk about how you can make money by finding your niche, and how to simplify your marketing! Find out more about Julianne below: https://www.juliannesmith.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thejuliannesmith/ Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 21 Nov 2024 | Getting your wedding business 2025 ready! | 00:16:44 | |
It's time to get your wedding business 2025 ready. As engagement season approaches it's the perfect time to get your goals set, your website updated and your prices sorted. In today's mini episode I run through a checklist to help you ensure you are ready. Time Stamps: 00:07 - Preparing for the Engagement Season 01:02 - Preparing Your Wedding Business for the Next Season 06:57 - Planning for 2025: Reflecting on Services and Strategies 12:25 - The Importance of Education in Business Planning 16:21 - Taking Time for Yourself: The Importance of Breaks | |||
| 11 Apr 2024 | Is your Wedding Business on TikTok - with Emily Rochotte | 00:39:21 | |
Today I'm chatting with social media manager and content creator Emily Rochotte! We talk all things content, and dive deep into why it's time for your wedding business to be on TikTok. We also talk about outsourcing work to others and the recent evolution of social media in the wedding industry. Grab a copy of Emily's outsourcing checklist here. Website: https://emilyrochotte.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilyrochotte/ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@emilyrochotte Want to get further training from Emily? Join the Wedding Pro Members lounge now to access her TikTok session: https://go.beccapountney.com/wedpro Time stamps: 00:00 Reflecting on the Journey: From Cringe to Growth 00:16 Meet Becca Pountney: The Voice Behind the Wedding Pros Podcast 00:45 Introducing Emily Rochotte: A Social Media Manager. 01:57 Emily's Path into the Wedding Industry 03:21 The Importance of Social Media in Wedding Business Marketing 06:00 Content Creation Tips for Wedding Professionals in 2024 09:02 Overcoming the Challenge of Limited Images 11:39 Staying Fresh and Innovative in Content Marketing 13:13 The Essential Guide to TikTok for Wedding Pros 18:53 Embracing Imperfection in Content Creation 19:20 Navigating the Post-COVID Wedding Industry Landscape 20:03 The Long Game of Social Media Marketing 22:16 Staying Consistent with Content During Busy Seasons 26:18 The Importance of Marketing for Fully Booked Businesses 28:34 When and How to Consider Outsourcing Your Social Media 33:02 Understanding Your Brand for Effective Marketing 35:00 Final Thoughts and the Value of Knowing Your Business Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: TikTok Training inside the Wedding Pro Members Lounge! Want more indepth training on using TikTok in your Wedding Business? Join Emily and myself inside of the Wedding Pro Members Lounge for a full masterclass. Not yet a member? Use the code PODCAST at checkout to get your first month for just £10.00! | |||
| 10 Oct 2024 | The AI Revolutionising the Wedding Industry with Bailey Readings | 00:31:28 | |
Today I'm chatting with Bailey Readings, a young entrepreneur and AI expert. He shares his remarkable journey from starting a cookie cutter business at just 14 years old to launching Automated Flow, a company that leverages AI to streamline business processes. We talk about the way AI is evolving, the power of chat bots and how you can start embracing AI in your wedding buisiness. Want Baileys free AI prompt cheat sheet? Go ask Becca Bot for it by typing the key words 'AI Cheat Sheet'. Time Stamps: 00:00 - Introduction to AI in Business 00:48 - Meet Bailey Reddings: A Young Entrepreneur 05:14 - The Journey from Cookie Cutters to AI 07:04 - Understanding AI and Its Impact 10:47 - What is Becca Bot? 11:58 - Creating Becca Bot: Behind the Scenes 15:26 - The Future of AI and Chatbots 25:18 - Practical Ways to Use AI in Your Business 29:55 - Conclusion and How to Access the Cheat Sheet Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Show Success workbook Got a Wedding Show coming up? Make sure you have a strategy in place. Download my free wedding show success workbook, and get a special price on my 3 part video training series about how to get the most out of your next show. | |||
| 11 Aug 2022 | 6 mistakes you are probably making in your wedding business! | 00:28:01 | |
In today's episode I am going to be sharing 6 mistakes you are probably making in your wedding business and how you can fix them. I work with wedding pro's from around the world, and yet I see lots of things they have in common when it comes to your mistakes! Grab a paper and pen, and take a listen to today's episode. If you enjoyed today's episode please consider leaving a rating and a review below and hit the subscribe button so that you get the latest episode every single Thursday! Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 01 Feb 2024 | How do we define Success and Fulfillment in the Wedding Industry? | 00:45:08 | |
Today I'm chatting with Ben Chernivsky, a wedding photographer and founder of Gifyyy, a portable photo booth company. Ben shares his journey from disinterest in weddings to becoming a successful wedding photographer and entrepreneur. He discusses the challenges of work-life balance, his midlife awakening, and the importance of living authentically. Ben reflects on his work addiction, and his decision to prioritize family. Today we go deep into many subjects that some of you may find difficult, so please take care whilst listening. Visit Head Heart Man on Instagram Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: The intro (00:00:00) Becca Pountney sets the stage for a deep and important conversation, addressing potential triggers and encouraging open dialogue about mental health. Introduction of Ben (00:01:10) Becca introduces Ben, a wedding photographer and the founder of Gifyyy, a portable photo booth, and expresses excitement about their conversation. Ben's journey into wedding photography (00:02:39) Ben shares his unexpected entry into the wedding photography industry and his initial disinterest in weddings, leading to his eventual passion for the craft. Growth of Ben's wedding photography business (00:06:56) Ben discusses the expansion of his wedding photography business, including the number of weddings and photo booth rentals, and the balance with family life. Building a team (00:07:59) Ben emphasizes the importance of teamwork and the need for a team to achieve success in the wedding industry, acknowledging the support he received from mentors and coaches. The decision to take on a team (00:09:15) Becca and Ben discuss the pivotal moment when Ben realized he needed to expand his team due to overwhelming demand and the emotional toll of turning down opportunities. Taking responsibility for business decisions (00:12:49) Ben emphasizes the importance of taking full responsibility for the decisions made in one's business, particularly when hiring and managing a team. Creation of Gifyyy (00:15:21) Ben shares the conscious decision to commit to the wedding industry for ten years and the development of Gifyyy, a portable photo booth, as a specialized addition to his photography business. The journey of Gifyyy (00:19:22) Ben discusses the portability and success of his Gifyyy photo booth business, its global reach, and his approach to managing it as a side hustle. Personal and professional transitions (00:20:36) Ben reflects on his life plan, goals, and the significant changes and self-discovery he experienced around the age of 35-40, including examining his family... | |||
| 09 May 2024 | The power of word of mouth marketing - with Kevin Dennis | 00:43:05 | |
The power of word of mouth networking is something I talk about frequently and in today's episode I talk to Kevin Dennis about how he has used it to build his own wedding business. From networking meetings to wedding days, Kevin builds connections everywhere, and his business has benefited as a result. Kevin Dennis is the editor of Wedding IQ and the owner of Fantasy Sound Event Services. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Helping out and building relationships (00:00:00) Kevin discusses the importance of helping others and building relationships in the wedding industry. Introduction and background of Kevin Dennis (00:00:53) Becca introduces Kevin Dennis, his background, and his experience in the wedding industry. Starting in the wedding industry (00:02:19) Kevin Dennis shares his journey into the wedding industry, starting as a DJ in high school and transitioning into his own DJ service. Challenges and changes in the industry (00:06:51) Kevin discusses the significant changes in the industry, particularly the evolution of DJing from vinyl to digital. Keys to success in the wedding business (00:07:58) Kevin emphasizes the importance of relationships and networking as key factors in his business success. Building relationships and networking (00:10:30) Kevin discusses the significance of belonging to associations, local groups, and getting involved in the community for building relationships. Effective networking and relationship-building (00:13:20) Kevin advises on the importance of genuine networking, listening to others, and taking time to build relationships. Practical tips for networking (00:15:42) Kevin provides practical tips for effective networking, including feeling comfortable, bringing a wingman, and researching the guest list before attending an event. The importance of personalization in networking (00:16:55) Emphasizing the impact of personalizing interactions and avoiding generic approaches at networking events. The significance of business cards (00:17:28) Highlighting the enduring value of business cards and the impression they create in networking. Professional email addresses and first impressions (00:18:37) Stressing the importance of using professional email addresses and the impact it has on initial perceptions. Challenges in networking events (00:19:29) Discussing challenges such as alcohol-related issues and inappropriate behavior at networking events. Etiquette and behavior at networking events (00:21:07) Addressing the importance of open communication and respectful behavior while networking. Respect and professionalism at venues (00:22:15) Emphasizing the need for respect and professionalism while working at event... | |||
| 07 Nov 2024 | Understanding the luxury wedding market - with Elizabeth Solaru | 00:47:51 | |
Do you ever wonder how to make it in the luxury wedding sector? Today I am chatting with Elizabeth Solaru - founder of Elizabeths Cake Emporium and author of 'The Luxpreneur'. We talk about her story, the different types of luxury and the highs and lows of working with luxury clientele. Time Stamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Luxury Mindset 01:24 - Journey into Cake Making 02:44 - Transitioning to Entrepreneurship 06:08 - Strategies for Client Acquisition 14:46 - Understanding Luxury Branding 15:08 - The Five Pillars of Luxury Brands 20:56 - Creating Luxury Experiences 27:34 - Types of Luxury Clients 30:48 - Finding Luxury Clients Online 34:34 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 45:44 - Conclusion and Key Takeaways 46:22 - Final Thoughts and Book Promotion | |||
| 26 Oct 2023 | Overcoming self sabotage in your wedding business with Camilla J Collins | 00:43:41 | |
Do you struggle with being visible in your business? Whenever I speak on visibility - people always say they don't feel confident to put themselves forward and I want to help you change that feeling. Today I'm chatting to makeup artist and confidence coach Camilla J Collins about overcoming self sabotage in your wedding business. We discuss everything from putting your face on social media to stopping comparisonitus. Want to find out more about Camilla? Watch her overcoming self sabotage masterclass Ready to be more visible in your wedding business? Take my free audio bootcamp and start taking action today! Time Stamps: Gaining Experience and Building Confidence [00:00:00] The importance of gaining experience, building confidence, and finding what you enjoy in the wedding industry. Camilla's Background in TV and Film [00:01:52] Camilla and Becca discuss their similar backgrounds in the television and film industry and how it led them to the wedding industry. Transitioning from Assisting to Starting a Business [00:07:07] Camilla shares her journey from assisting other makeup artists to starting her own bridal business and getting clients. Building Confidence and Gaining Experience [00:08:33] Importance of gaining experience, finding passion, and building confidence in the wedding industry. The Importance of Doing the Work and Building Experience [00:09:18] The value of starting at the bottom, gaining experience, and learning from the ground up in the wedding industry. The Highs and Lows of Being in the Wedding Industry [00:11:02] Discussion about the highs and lows, struggles, and learnings from working in the wedding industry. The power within ourselves [00:17:14] Camilla discusses her motivation for writing a book about the beauty industry and the importance of building confidence from within. Reasons behind self-criticism [00:18:37] Camilla explores the reasons why people often feel critical about their appearance, including lack of self-acceptance and societal pressures. Comparison and the impact of social media [00:20:28] The conversation delves into the issue of comparison, particularly on social media, and how it affects self-confidence and self-image. Building Confidence and Focusing on Yourself [00:26:25] The importance of focusing on your own strengths and not comparing yourself to others in the industry. Importance of Showing Your Face [00:29:21] Why it is crucial to showcase your face and connect with people in the wedding industry. Overcoming Self-Sabotage [00:32:43] Tips and resources for dealing with self-sabotaging behaviours and limiting beliefs that hold you back. The importance of not listening to negativity [00:35:00] Discusses how negative comments can affect us and the importance of focusing on positive feedback instead. The need for in-person networking [00:37:15] Talks about the importance of getting out of our comfort zones and connecting with people in person for business growth. The importance of agility and not getting too attached [00:39:55] Discusses the need to embrace... | |||
| 20 Mar 2025 | West End to Wedding Singer - with Rebecca Cole | 00:40:41 | |
Today I am chatting with one of my members - Rebecca Cole. Rebecca has an amazing background in the entertainment industry and has spent the last decade working as a wedding singer. We chat about navigating a career change, a young family and keeping up with the industry changes. Find Rebecca on TikTok, Facebook or Instagram Find out about the Wedding Pro Members Lounge Time Stamps: 00:10 - Introduction to Wedding Business Strategies 06:18 - Transitioning to Wedding Singing 08:44 - Starting a Career in Wedding Singing 20:51 - Navigating Work and Family Life 31:56 - Navigating the Wedding Industry: Community Over Competition 34:26 - Navigating the Challenges of Wedding Business | |||
| 10 Aug 2023 | Mastering SEO for your Wedding Business - with Sara Dunn | 00:36:47 | |
Does SEO give you a headache? You want to rise to the top of Google but it just feels like an impossible challenge. In today's episode the fabulous Sara Dunn of Sara Does SEO is breaking it down for you. Her mission - to allow all wedding businesses to understand SEO, without the jargon. In this episode Sara breaks down mastering SEO for your wedding business. Find out more about Wedding SEO Bootcamp Find out about working with Sara The Q&A Blog Exchange [00:00:00] Sara discusses the idea of a Q&A blog exchange between businesses to generate more content and links. Introduction to Sara Dunn [00:01:09] Becca introduces Sara Dunn, a wedding specialist who helps wedding pros rank higher in Google. Sara's Background and SEO for the Wedding Industry [00:01:52] Sara Dunn shares her background and how she got into SEO, specifically for the wedding industry. Tip 1: Figuring out what people are searching for [00:09:55] Importance of brainstorming keywords and understanding what potential clients are searching for. Tip 2: Using keywords on your website [00:13:15] The importance of using keywords on your website, including in headings, page text, and SEO titles. Tip 3: Optimizing specific pages on your site [00:17:47] Avoiding the common mistake of repeating the same keyword throughout the entire website and instead focusing on optimizing specific pages. Optimizing your homepage and blog content [00:17:57] Sara Dunn explains the importance of optimizing the homepage for the most important keyword and expanding on other related keywords through blog content. The role of Google Business Profile in SEO [00:20:13] Sara Dunn emphasizes the significance of setting up a Google Business Profile to communicate important information about your business to Google and build trust. The importance of backlinks in SEO [00:21:25] Sara Dunn discusses the importance of backlinks in SEO and how they indicate trust and authority, cautioning against buying low-quality links and suggesting guest blogging as a way to obtain high-quality links. The importance of using tools for accurate SEO ranking [00:26:48] Using tools or an incognito window in Chrome is more accurate than Googling your keywords to check your ranking. Understanding the Yoast plugin for SEO optimization [00:27:56] The Yoast plugin provides signals on how well your content is optimized, but it doesn't communicate with Google directly. The Wedding SEO Bootcamp and its benefits [00:31:20] The Wedding SEO Bootcamp is a group program that teaches step-by-step SEO strategies tailored for the wedding industry. 00:35:26 - Note-taking for future reference Becca discusses the practice of making notes in her phone for helpful information that may not be immediately applicable. 00:35:41 - Revisiting information in the quiet season Becca mentions that some listeners may want to wait until the quiet season to revisit the information discussed in the episode. 00:36:13 - Sara's approach to SEO Becca expresses admiration for Sara's down-to-earth approach to search engine optimization and encourages listeners to check out her bootcamp and other resources. | |||
| 16 Feb 2023 | Using AI in your wedding business - with The Two Lauras | 00:28:24 | |
Today we are talking about the hot topic of the moment AI and more specifically Chat GPT! For this episode I have collaborated with business friends 'The Two Laura's' to find out what all the fuss is about. Why is AI the subject everyone is talking about right now? What is Chat GPT and more importantly, how can we use it to help in our wedding business? We answer your questions and help you understand what this technology is all about. Find out more about the Two Laura's using the links below: Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 08 Jun 2023 | Why you should be attending wedding conferences - with Danielle Andrews | 00:38:49 | |
Today I'm chatting with Danielle Andrews, President and Co-Founder of the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada. Danielle and I met at a Wedding Industry Conference we were both speaking at so we decided that we would discuss why attending conferences matters to your wedding business. In the episode we discuss the importance of attending conferences, gaining hands-on experience, and keeping up with education in the industry. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps:
Importance of gaining experience [00:08:34] The speakers discuss the importance of gaining experience in the wedding industry and how it can be done through job shadowing and volunteering. Building confidence and doing a photo shoot [00:10:15] The speakers talk about how experience and doing a photo shoot can help build confidence in the wedding industry. Benefits of attending conferences [00:14:43] The speakers discuss the benefits of attending conferences, including networking, learning best practices, and experiencing different aspects of the industry. Making the most of conferences [00:17:17] Tips on how to make the most of attending conferences, including researching seminars, networking, and attending non-wedding seminars. Importance of positivity at conferences [00:21:27] The importance of being positive and open-minded at conferences, and how negativity can affect networking opportunities. Recommendations for conferences [00:23:31] Recommendations for conferences based on niche, including Wedding MBA, Engage, DWP, and Love Mexico. Importance of Education and Conferences [00:26:34] Danielle and Becca discuss the importance of education and conferences in the wedding industry, and how they constantly update their information to keep up with the changing trends and technologies. Investing in Education [00:30:28] Becca and Danielle talk about the common mistake of dropping education when struggling with bookings, and how investing in education is an investment in your business that has a return on investment. Aha Moments from Conferences [00:33:33] Danielle shares her recent aha moments from online trainings and in-person conferences, particularly in gaining inspiration for event design and learning about marketing through reels. Learning Resources [00:34:11] Danielle and Becca discuss the importance of attending conferences and keeping... | |||
| 27 Mar 2025 | Wedding Business hacks to save you time! | 00:27:41 | |
Today I am talking about the time saving hacks I use in my own wedding business. As a busy mum and entrepreneur I am always looking for more efficient ways to operate, and as my word of the year is boundaries, I am finding ways to be better at separating work and life too. In today's episode I talk about re-purposing content, setting up business Whatsapp, storing passwords and even auto filling information on your phone. Want weekly hacks and updates from me? Join the Wedding Pro Members Lounge. Find all the ways you can work with me here Here are the links I mention in today's episode: Time Stamps: 00:12 - Time Management for Wedding Pros 02:10 - Effective Time-Saving Hacks for Your Wedding Business 11:22 - Managing WhatsApp for Business: Keeping Personal and Professional Separate 17:34 - Setting Up Text Replacement on Your iPhone Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro members lounge Find out more about the wedding pro members lounge: https://go.beccapountney.com/wedpro | |||
| 27 Oct 2022 | Accounts, tax, bank accounts - eeek, what do you need to know as a wedding business? | 00:44:09 | |
In today's episodes I have dug into the Wedding Pro Members lounge archives to bring you an interview from back in 2019 (excuse the sound quality, my equipment has improved a lot since then) In this episode you can hear an interview with my accountant Emma Bail from Evolve accounting. She answers questions on everything you need to know when it comes to the finance side of your wedding business. From which records to keep to what you can claim for in your tax bill, this interview answers all your questions. Want to join the wedding pro members lounge? Use the coupon PODCAST to get the first month in the club for just £1. Click to join the wedding pro members club now Find out more about Emma and how to hire her as your accountant here: | |||
| 02 Jun 2022 | Demystifying Pinterest - how to get your wedding business in front of thousands more couples! | 00:22:19 | |
Its no secret that I LOVE Pinterest and it's a really powerful marketing tool for your wedding business - but do you know how it works? In today's episode I'm going to be helping you to understand the Pinterest platform better and I will be sharing some simple tips to help you reach thousands of potential customers! Want to get even more help? Join my FREE Pinterest challenge: Mon 13th - Thurs 16th June 2022 Sign up here: www.wedpropodcast.com Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 02 Feb 2023 | Don't let your wedding business run you - with Dana and Courtney! | 00:37:11 | |
Ever feel like your business has taken over and you are not sure how to breathe and get back in control? Today I talk to the amazing sister duo Dana and Courtney! With a wedding planning business and two wedding venues to run - they have a lot to handle! I hear about the hard work and long hours they put in to get to this point, and how they kept going even when things were tough! Find out more about Dana and Courtney below: Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 26 Dec 2024 | Happy Christmas - go and have fun! | 00:00:40 | |
Have a very Happy Christmas, go watch a Christmas Movie and eat far too much chocolate! See you in the New Year! | |||
| 18 Apr 2024 | Networking, Education and taking care of you - with Amber Anderson | 00:38:59 | |
Today I'm chatting with former Wedding Planner and current owner of the Refine Collective Amber Anderson. She shares her own story of starting a Wedding Planning Business and shares insights and learning's from along the way. Amber also shares her story of a recent health crisis and what it's taught her about life and business. Visit Refine for Wedding Planners Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time Stamps: 00:00 The Power of Education in Business Growth 00:32 Introducing Becca Pountney and the Podcast's Mission 00:59 Special Guest Amber Anderson: A Journey from Fitness to Wedding Planning 01:32 Networking and Creativity: The Selfie Museum Event 03:13 Amber's Business Beginnings and Learning Curves 06:02 The Importance of Networking and Choosing the Right Clients 10:43 Navigating the World of Business Education and Mentorship 15:18 Radical Honesty and Problem Solving in the Wedding Industry 19:37 Self-Care, Health Challenges, and Business Adjustments 31:34 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs | |||
| 07 Apr 2022 | There's no perfect age to own a business - Interview with wedding florist Sophie Ayres | 00:29:34 | |
Is there a perfect age to start your wedding business? In today's episode I am interviewing successful wedding florist Sophie Ayres - who started her wedding business at just 21! We discuss the highs and the lows of owning your own business, and she shares the advice she wishes she knew sooner. Want to becoming a wedding pro member just like Sophie? Here are the details of about how to join my inner circle: https://go.beccapountney.com/wedpro Find out more about Sophie here: Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 14 Apr 2022 | Why do Disney never discount? | 00:17:25 | |
I'm a HUGE Disney fan and in today's episode we are going to be looking at what we can learn from the Disney company in order to improve our own wedding business! If you are a wedding business owner it can be easy to focus inward... but there is a lot to be learnt from these large corporations. In today's episode I am going to be sharing 5 things we can all learn from Disney, including my favourite phrase - Disney never discount, so why should you? Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: | |||
| 01 Jun 2023 | Making sustainability a priority - with RSA House | 00:38:08 | |
Today I'm chatting with Amanda, a wedding sales and marketing executive at RSA House. Amanda talks candidly about the venue / supplier relationships and how to make a great impression. We also discuss RSA House's commitment to sustainability and their new sustainable wedding package. RSA House are leading the way in sustainability and Amanda encourages all of us to consider implementing similar practices in our own businesses. Contact Amanda: weddings@rsa.org.uk 0207 4516950 Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Time stamps: Introduction [00:00:27] Becca introduces herself and the podcast, and welcomes Amanda from RSA House as a guest. Amanda's career change [00:02:51] Amanda talks about her decision to leave the legal field and pursue a career in weddings. RSA House post-pandemic [00:07:37] Amanda discusses how RSA House has been dealing with the pandemic and rebuilding their business, including promoting the quality of their venue and relying on feedback from couples. Building relationships with suppliers [00:10:02] Discussion on how to build relationships with suppliers and the importance of aligning with the venue's values, particularly on sustainability. Dos and Don'ts for suppliers on a wedding day [00:14:52] Tips for suppliers on how to make the wedding day run smoothly, including being on time, introducing themselves, and treating staff with respect. Importance of kindness and courtesy in the wedding industry [00:17:54] The importance of being kind and courteous to every member of staff in the wedding industry, and how it can impact future relationships and opportunities. The importance of sustainability in the events industry [00:19:17-00:23:37] The speakers discuss the importance of sustainability in the events industry and how venues and couples can make small changes to reduce waste and carbon footprint. Suppliers' role in sustainability [00:24:21-00:27:44] The speakers talk about what suppliers can do to be more sustainable, including using eco-friendly products and transportation, and donating surplus food and flowers. Sustainability package at RSA House [00:28:21] The speakers discuss the sustainability package offered at RSA House, which includes a bespoke menu with carefully curated options for reducing the carbon footprint of the event. Sustainable Weddings Package [00:29:27] RSA House's sustainable weddings package, including locally sourced food and wine, and sustainable practices such as net zero waste and green energy. Benefits of RSA House [00:30:39] All couples benefit from RSA House's sustainable practices, including green energy and LED lighting. Working in the Wedding Industry [00:33:47] The joy and challenges of working in the wedding industry, and the importance of constantly learning and challenging oneself. Mentioned in this... | |||
| 12 Jan 2023 | New Year - Same you? Let's get your wedding business sorted for 2023! | 00:22:02 | |
Happy New Year - yes it's socially acceptable to say that for most of January! In today's episode I am helping you look back over 2022 and look forward to 2023 in your wedding business. This isn't about setting impossible New Years resolutions, but instead I'm helping you think strategically ahead and put in goals for this year! It's time for you and your wedding business to shine. Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's so that you can share ideas, network and help each other out? Then why not go ahead and join my free Wedding Pro community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weddingprosreadytogrow/ Find out more about how I can help you grow your wedding business over on my website or Instagram page: www.instagram.com/beccapountney Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Pro agency Need some help in your wedding business? Our new service allows my team to manage your social accounts, create you a new website or complete one off admin tasks for you. Get in touch to find out more at: www.weddingproagency.co.uk | |||
| 17 Oct 2024 | Why you should say goodbye to email newsletters | 00:29:58 | |
One thing that makes me sigh is when your website says 'sign up to our email newsletter'. Today I am going to share with you why this strategy doesn't work, and how to give your email marketing a revamp. We are going to look at email marketing strategies that work, and how you can implement them in your wedding business. Time Stamps:
Mentioned in this episode: Wedding Show Success workbook Got a Wedding Show coming up? Make sure you have a strategy in place. Download my free wedding show success workbook, and get a special price on my 3 part video training series about how to get the most out of your next show. | |||
| 08 Sep 2022 | Help! How do I move my wedding business forward? | 00:18:43 | |
Are you ready to move your wedding business forward? Do you know you need help but you are not sure where or how to get it? In today's episode I am going to share all the resources I have available to you, and how I can help you move your wedding business forward. Here's a list of resources mentioned in today's episode:
Feel free to DM me on Instagram for more details on anything in today's episode. | |||
| 28 Mar 2024 | Preparing your Wedding Business for the future | 00:32:48 | |
Today I am sharing my top tips for preparing your wedding business for the future. There will likely come a time when you need to outsource your tasks or grow a team, so today I am sharing my top tips to ensure your wedding business or venue is ready to take that leap. In today's episode I mention: The Wedding Pro Business Builder course Step 1: Brand Guide (00:00:57) Creating a comprehensive brand guide including logo, color codes, fonts, and brand voice. Step 2: Templates (00:06:34) Using templates for social media graphics and ensuring they are easily accessible in Canva. Step 3: Password Manager (00:09:07) Implementing a password manager, such as LastPass, for secure and efficient sharing of login details. Step 4: Organizing Image Files (00:12:45) Organizing image files in a cloud-based system with a structured folder hierarchy and including relevant details for each image. Organizing Image Files (00:17:52) Becca emphasizes the importance of organizing image files into a cloud-based system and subfolders for efficient outsourcing. Clear Processes (00:18:55) Becca discusses the necessity of documenting regular tasks using a tool called Scribe, simplifying the outsourcing process. Clear Plan and Objectives (00:19:44) The importance of having clear objectives and a marketing calendar for effective outsourcing is highlighted. Marketing Calendar (00:22:22) Becca stresses the need for a marketing calendar to facilitate targeted and effective content creation for outsourcing. Key Performance Indicators (00:26:43) Understanding and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) is essential for monitoring the effectiveness of outsourcing tasks. Recap of Eight Steps (00:31:13) Becca summarizes the eight essential steps for preparing a business for outsourcing tasks, emphasizing the importance of taking it one step at a time. | |||