Podcast
Wedding Planner Society Podcast
Hosted by CWP Society - Laurie Hartwell, Founder & CEO · EN
CWP Society is proud to produce the "Wedding Planner Society: Industry Expert Insights" podcast!
Laurie Hartwell, award-winning Master Certified Wedding Planner, and Industry Educator, and founder & CEO of the CWP Society, discuss the real lives of wedding planners and professionals, dispense business tips, and share ways you can elevate yourself and your career in the wedding industry.
Visit the CWP Society website for more information: www.cwpsociety.com
136episodes
Episodes
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Certification Changed Everything: Two Planners Share Their Journeys
Sep 1500:34:33Tap to summarizeKrisy Thomas, COO of the Certified Wedding Planner Society, is joined by two remarkable Certified Wedding Planners, Vicki Amar and Ashley Babbitt, to share their transformative journeys in the wedding industry. This captivating conversation highlights the power of education, certification, and community in shaping a successful career.Vicki Amar brings a fascinating perspective, having coordinated iconic New York City events like the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade before transitioning to wedding planning. Despite her extensive event experience, Vicki recognized that wedding planning required specialized knowledge—a realization that led her to pursue certification and take the leap into full-time entrepreneurship.Ashley Babbitt offers a complementary journey, having strategically pursued certification while still in college. This approach gave her the confidence to pursue shadowing opportunities even during the challenges of the COVID period. Now a lead planner in Orlando, Ashley continues to advocate for education and mentorship, particularly for students entering the wedding industry.Both planners emphasize that certification provides more than just credentials, it offers ongoing education through weekly workshops, access to a supportive professional community, and the confidence to deliver exceptional service. Their stories highlight how the CWP Society transforms perspectives from competition to collaboration, creating networks of mutual support that benefit both planners and clients.This episode is packed with insights on professional growth, the value of specialized education, and how a community-centered approach is revolutionizing the wedding planning industry. Whether you’re starting out or looking to elevate your career, Vicki and Ashley’s journeys demonstrate that certification can be the catalyst for meaningful professional transformation.Ready to elevate your wedding planning career? Discover how certification can transform your professional journey at CWPSociety.com.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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Education + Relationships: The Winning Formula for Wedding Planners
Sep 1100:50:56Tap to summarizeWhat truly separates thriving wedding planners from those who struggle to build sustainable businesses?In this candid conversation, Master Certified Wedding Planners & Certified Educators, Aisha Garnett and Crystal Dailey join Krisy Thomas, COO of the CWP Society, to reveal the powerful synergy between education and relationships that has transformed their careers.Aisha reflects on her early days, when she charged just $300 for an entire wedding before pursuing certification, a decision that connected her with mentors who reshaped her professional trajectory. Crystal shares how her educational foundation gave her the confidence to cultivate industry relationships that continue to generate opportunities years later.The discussion takes a memorable turn when Aisha recalls a shocking moment: a caterer attempting to host a client tasting in a stairwell. Her takeaway. “Vet your vendors, and then vet them again!”, highlights why proper education empowers planners to ask the right questions and protect their clients.Both Aisha and Crystal credit their Master Certification through the CWP Society as a game-changer, not only sharpening their technical expertise but also equipping them to manage challenging client dynamics with professionalism and grace. Crystal describes how education prepared her to calm an anxious mother-of-the-bride, while Aisha explains how professionalism has safeguarded her reputation in a competitive market.For planners who feel isolated or stuck, this episode is more than inspiration, it’s a roadmap. Education and relationships aren’t separate paths; they’re the foundation of a sustainable career. And when you connect with a supportive community like the CWP Society, you’ll never have to navigate this industry alone.Ready to take the first step toward building the business you’ve been dreaming of? Visit cwpsociety.com today to join the network that’s helping wedding planners nationwide elevate their skills, their confidence, and their careers.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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Sacred Partnerships: How Wedding Planners and Church Coordinators Can Work Together
Sep 500:24:22Tap to summarizeThe relationship between wedding planners and church coordinators has long been marked by tension, misunderstandings, and at times, outright conflict. But what if there’s a better way forward?In this episode, Emma Cockerham, Certified Educator and Master Certified Wedding Planner, joins Krisy Thomas, COO of The CWP Society, for a candid conversation on transforming these often-strained relationships into true partnerships.Emma shares her personal journey through church wedding burnout in 2019, when a series of difficult experiences left her both professionally and spiritually discouraged. Instead of walking away, she leaned into education and a new approach, proving that change is possible. Together, Krisy and Emma unpack the persistent myths that fuel conflict: the idea that planners are inherently disrespectful, that church coordinators dismiss the bigger picture, and that media teams are encouraged to ignore rules.Through real-life stories and practical strategies, Emma highlights how humility, communication, and respect can reshape even the toughest dynamics. From navigating media restrictions to clarifying a planner’s role within the ceremony, she offers actionable ways to foster collaboration. A particularly compelling story involves her persistence in building trust with a Catholic church coordinator, a relationship once fraught with conflict that became one of genuine respect.Emma discusses the importance of research and entering every church setting with reverence, regardless of personal religious background.Whether you’ve experienced church wedding challenges firsthand or want to avoid them altogether, this conversation gives you a framework for becoming a true peacemaker. As Emma reminds us, wedding planning is about bringing diverse vendors together to create something beautiful, and that begins with mutual respect.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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Trust Over Transactions: Why Ethical Vendor Relationships Matter
Sep 400:23:48Tap to summarizeCertified Wedding Planner and Certified Educator, Amanda Borrero, joins CWP Society COO, Krisy Thomas, for an unfiltered conversation about one of the wedding industry’s most debated practices: kickbacks.Together, they unpack what kickbacks really are, why they’ve become so ingrained in the wedding world, and the ethical dilemmas they create for planners and couples alike. From “pay-to-play” venue lists to referral fees passed quietly between vendors, this discussion explores how these arrangements can limit choices, raise costs, and compromise trust.But the episode doesn’t stop there, it also offers a look at what ethical alternatives can look like. Amanda shares her perspective on building long-lasting vendor partnerships rooted in transparency and mutual respect, and how planners can negotiate perks that directly benefit their clients instead of lining their own pockets.If you’ve ever wondered how to grow a wedding planning business built on integrity and sustainability, this conversation will leave you inspired to do things differently.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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Inclusive Celebrations: Planning Weddings for Physically Limited Guests
Aug 2800:23:51Tap to summarizeHave you ever considered what it’s like for a guest with mobility challenges to navigate a wedding day? From uneven outdoor paths to inaccessible restrooms, the obstacles they face might surprise you.In this powerful conversation, Krisy Thomas, COO of the CWP Society, leads a discussion with Master Certified Wedding Planner and Certified Educator Brianne Ackerland to shine a light on an often-overlooked aspect of wedding planning: accessibility and inclusion for guests with physical limitations.As planners, we’re trained to perfect timelines, create stunning designs, and deliver unforgettable moments—but what about ensuring every guest can actually participate in the celebration? Brianne shares how today’s trend toward historic venues, private estates, and nontraditional spaces has introduced new accessibility challenges. From stair-only entry points to narrow restrooms, these obstacles can unintentionally exclude guests and impact the overall guest experience.Together, we explore real-life examples and practical solutions any planner can implement: using outdoor rugs to create smoother pathways, providing appropriate seating beyond standard folding chairs, communicating accessibility details on wedding websites, and advocating for inclusive accommodations during venue walkthroughs.What makes this discussion truly transformative is its emphasis on mindset over checklist. Inclusion begins the moment you talk venues with a couple, not as an afterthought once challenges arise. By approaching accessibility proactively, planners can turn potential roadblocks into opportunities for thoughtfulness, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and valued. If you’re ready to elevate your skills and lead with inclusivity, visit cwpsociety.com to explore our certification programs and join a community dedicated to raising industry standards.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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Raising the Standard: How Certified Planners Are Redefining the Wedding Industry
Aug 2200:40:40Tap to summarizeStep into the world of wedding planning leadership as Krisy Thomas, COO of the CWP Society, sits down with four extraordinary certified wedding planners who are reshaping the industry across the globe. Together, they share their journeys from skilled professionals to influential change-makers, highlighting how education and community are redefining the wedding planning profession.Joining the conversation:David Ude of Dafame Concept, raising the bar for weddings in Nigeria.Tracy Dapp of Inked Events, leading with integrity and innovation in New Hampshire.Tish Clay of Simone Elise Events, bringing warmth, grace, and fierce advocacy from Tennessee.Morgan Parker, the visionary behind Golden Forest Events, making waves in North Carolina.David Ude describes the game-changing impact of international certification in Africa, where his CWP credentials have opened doors and commanded respect in a market eager for proven expertise. “My goal is putting African event professionals on that global map,” he shares with palpable passion. Meanwhile, Tracy Dapp reflects on how certification elevated her 15-year career: “I came into it fairly confident, but being certified through CWP, I'm even more confident in what I do.”The discussion also challenges the common advice often given to new planners—“just shadow someone” or “learn by doing.” Instead, these leaders advocate for proper education as the foundation of professionalism, drawing parallels to other industries where training is essential. Tish Clay reveals the transformation she’s experienced: “Since obtaining my CWP credentials, my delivery has become so much better, to the point of clients not having questions once we've finished an initial consultation.”Beyond business growth, the conversation underscores the importance of community in an often-isolated profession. Each of these planners describes the CWP Society as a “safe space” where planners can be vulnerable, ask questions, and find genuine support without judgment—a rare gift in a competitive industry.Whether you’re considering a career in wedding planning, looking to elevate your business, or simply curious about the future of the profession, this episode offers invaluable insights from leaders who are raising the standard worldwide. Visit cwpsociety.com to discover how you can join this community of excellence-focused wedding professionals.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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The Power of Partnership: When Venue Coordinators and Planners Collaborate
Aug 1900:31:05Tap to summarizeKrisy Thomas, COO of the CWP Society, sits down with Master Certified Planner and Certified Educator Nikki Rodgers, who brings 22 years of experience on both sides of the aisle, for an eye-opening episode that tackles one of the wedding industry’s most common confusions: the difference between venue coordinators and wedding planners.When couples hear "your venue comes with a coordinator," they often assume this person will handle all wedding day logistics and details. This common misconception doesn't just affect couples—even seasoned wedding professionals sometimes perpetuate this misunderstanding, leaving crucial gaps in wedding day management.Nikki shares her unique perspective from her extensive background working in luxury venues and as an independent wedding planner. She clarifies that venue coordinators focus exclusively on venue-specific operations—managing staff, monitoring facilities, handling food service timing, and ensuring venue policies are followed. Their role is vital but limited to the venue's interests, and they often transfer responsibilities to other staff once the reception begins.Wedding planners, by contrast, serve as the couple's advocate throughout the entire process. They manage comprehensive timelines including photography schedules and beauty appointments, coordinate all outside vendors, handle personal décor items, cue the wedding party, and perhaps most importantly, solve unexpected problems without the couple ever knowing—from torn dresses to timeline adjustments when things run behind.The magic happens when both professionals work in harmony, respecting each other's domains while communicating openly. Nikki shares practical advice for building these productive relationships, recounting real-world examples where communication breakdowns created unnecessary stress for everyone involved.For wedding professionals listening, Nikki offers actionable takeaways to strengthen venue-planner relationships: proactively reaching out to venues before weddings, sharing timelines early for feedback, and respecting venue policies. These practices not only enhance the couple's experience but also build valuable industry connections that lead to future referrals.Ready to elevate your wedding planning career? Join the CWP Society's community of supportive professionals and access continuing education that will help you master these crucial industry relationships.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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Why the Best Wedding Planners Never Stop Being Students
Aug 11, 202500:30:16Tap to summarizeWhat separates thriving wedding planners from those who struggle? In this candid conversation, Master Certified Wedding Planner and Certified Educator, Crystal Dailey, joins Krisy Thomas, COO of the CWP Society, to reveal the transformative power of education in building a sustainable wedding planning business.Crystal shares a refreshingly honest account of how recognizing her own shortcomings became the catalyst for her educational journey. "Failing," she admits without hesitation, drove her to seek knowledge that would elevate her service. This self-awareness stands in stark contrast to planners who let ego prevent them from acknowledging areas for improvement.Through personal stories, including a painfully underpriced destination wedding that left her operating at a loss, Crystal illuminates how proper education prevents costly mistakes that impact both individual businesses and the industry as a whole. She offers practical guidance for distinguishing between “shiny” educational trends and truly transformative learning opportunities, emphasizing the importance of vetting educators' credibility, values, and intentions.The conversation tackles a critical industry challenge: the tendency for new planners to begin working without proper training. "Don't mess up ten weddings before you attempt to educate yourself," Crystal advises, challenging the notion that experience alone creates excellence. She makes a compelling case that education benefits planners at every career stage, even veterans with 15+ years of experience continue finding value in certification programs and ongoing learning.Whether you're just starting your wedding planning journey or looking to reinvigorate your established business, this episode offers a roadmap for leveraging education to build confidence, deliver exceptional client experiences, and achieve sustainable success in an ever-evolving industry. Ready to transform your approach to wedding planning? The journey begins with a commitment to never stop learning.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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Suiting Everyone: How Inclusive Design Changed Wedding Fashion
Aug 7, 202500:29:03Tap to summarizeWedding fashion is evolving beyond tradition, and Katy Eriks, Director of Experience at SuitShop, is helping lead that transformation with a fresh approach to wedding suiting that prioritizes inclusivity, convenience, and personal expression.In this episode, Katy joins Krisy Thomas, COO of the CWP Society, for a powerful conversation about what today’s couples really want when it comes to wedding attire—and how planners can better support them.Katy’s journey with SuitShop began as a bride shopping for her own wedding, and now—eight years later—she brings both personal insight and professional expertise to the table. This dual perspective gives her a deep understanding of what matters to modern wedding parties, especially when navigating suiting for a wide range of body types and gender identities.What truly sets SuitShop apart is their commitment to body inclusivity. Katy shares how their expanded size ranges and inclusive cuts (across men’s, women’s, and unisex designs) didn’t come from a marketing initiative—they evolved directly from listening to real couples and their needs. The result? A collection that allows everyone in the wedding party to feel confident, cohesive, and seen.Katy and Krisy also dive into current trends shaping the suiting world. While classic black and navy still reign, color is having a major moment. From tan suits paired with fall tones to bold hues like orange and green, couples are using fashion as a form of storytelling. Vintage elements like tweed, double-breasted jackets, and unique accessories are also making a comeback.One of the most eye-opening parts of the conversation? Katy challenges the idea that renting is always more budget-friendly. Purchasing a suit from SuitShop offers not only long-term value but the ability to tailor the fit and reuse it again and again. She also suggests that planners encourage couples to gift size-flexible accessories (like ties or pocket squares) to their wedding parties as a thoughtful, budget-conscious gesture.For planners, Katy shares practical tips on how to vet suiting providers and be prepared for day-of challenges—think safety pins, boutonniere placement, and quick fixes for last-minute wardrobe issues.Explore SuitShop’s inclusive options at suitshop.com or follow @SuitShopOfficial on Instagram.This is one episode you—and your clients—won’t want to miss.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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Money Talks: The Mid-Year Financial Checkup Every Wedding Planner Needs
Aug 5, 202500:24:26Tap to summarizeTaking a mid-year financial pulse check of your wedding business isn't just smart—it’s transformative.In this episode, Matt Mitchell of The Event Ledger joins CWP Society COO, Krisy Thomas, for a powerful conversation on why summer (yes, even in August!) is still the perfect time to assess your business finances. There’s enough time left in the year to make meaningful shifts, and those changes can set you up for a stronger finish.Wedding planners are pros at organizing everyone else’s special day, but our own business finances? They often get left behind in the bustle of busy season. This conversation breaks down why mid-year is the sweet spot for financial assessment. By now, you’ve gathered enough real data and still have time to course-correct. As Matt puts it: “When you sit down mid-year and review your numbers, you're asking really valuable questions like: Is my business model working? Are my packages profitable? Am I on track for my revenue goals?”You’ll walk away with a simple five-step framework for checking in on your numbers. From reconciling your books through June to identifying which services actually generate profit (not just revenue). One wedding pro learned their partial planning package brought in 60% of revenue—but ate up 80% of their time. That kind of insight? Business-changing.Matt also dives into outsourcing your bookkeeping and how to approach your finances without shame or judgment. “Outsourcing your bookkeeping isn't just about saving time, it's about unlocking clarity.”If you're a self-proclaimed control enthusiast, this episode will help you think differently about how support can give you a strategic edge. Ready for action? Block 90 minutes this week for your CEO time, run your profit and loss report, evaluate one expense category, and write down a single financial goal for the rest of the year. Your wedding business deserves the same meticulous attention you give your clients.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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