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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Beyond Experience: How Education Transforms Wedding Planning Businesses
Apr 1, 202500:33:33Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Vice President of the CWP Society and Co-Host, Krisy Thomas sits down with Crystal Dailey, owner of Empower Weddings, and a Master Certified Wedding Planner whose journey proves the transformative power of education in building a thriving wedding business.Crystal's journey from event planner to Master Certified Wedding Planner reveals the transformative power of education in building a thriving wedding business. Her candid confession about initially trying to learn by simply shadowing other planners resonates with many who've walked a similar path – discovering that observation alone can't provide the comprehensive foundation needed for success.The conversation tackles one of the wedding industry's most pervasive myths: that education is only for beginners. Crystal brilliantly dismantles this misconception with a memorable analogy: "We're not going to hairstylists that stopped getting educated in the 80s. We're not going to doctors that didn't continuously educate." Her message is clear – client expectations evolve rapidly, and wedding planners who don't keep learning risk becoming obsolete.For planners feeling stuck or stagnant, Crystal offers practical wisdom on selecting the right educational investments. She recommends a strategic approach: identify your specific business pain points, look for wedding-specific programs that address them, and carefully vet educators to ensure they have proven success. Her own transformation through applying educational concepts is evident when she shares how a professional consultation presentation dramatically increased her booking rate and proper pricing education helped her confidently charge her worth.Perhaps most valuable is Crystal's advice on balancing education with the demanding schedule of a wedding planner. Her commitment to blocking off time for weekly learning demonstrates that education isn't an extra – it's essential. The results speak for themselves: refined processes, stronger client experiences, and a more profitable business.Whether you're just starting your wedding planning journey or have decades of experience, Crystal's insights prove that education is the foundation that elevates your business from ordinary to exceptional. Ready to transform your wedding planning career? Start by investing in the education that addresses your specific needs – your future clients will thank you.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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Setting Your Wedding Day Assistants Up for Success
Mar 24, 202500:29:58Tap to summarizeKrisy Thomas, Co-Host and Vice President of the CWP Society, is joined by special guest Hailey Beard to tackle a game-changing topic for wedding planners: transforming assistants into assets, not liabilities.Ever wonder why some weddings flow perfectly while others face constant hiccups? The secret often lies not with the lead planner, but with how well they've prepared their assistant team.When wedding day assistants aren't properly equipped, they become a liability rather than an asset. In this illuminating episode, Hailey Beard, Certified Wedding Planner, Certified Educator and Owner of Hailey Beard Events, shares her proven system for transforming assistants into empowered extensions of your brand.Drawing from her dual perspective as both a lead planner and someone who regularly assists fellow certified planners, Hailey reveals the five critical elements of assistant preparation that most wedding businesses overlook. From creating detailed, strength-based task lists to providing comprehensive documentation that prevents embarrassing mix-ups with clients, her approach eliminates the guesswork that leads to wedding day disasters.You'll discover why pre-wedding planning meetings trump day-of instructions, how to establish clear communication protocols for emergencies, and which uncomfortable conversations about professional standards you absolutely must have before wedding day arrives. Haileyalso shares her strategy for finding assistants whose values align with your brand, including the simple coffee date question that reveals everything about a candidate's approach to client service.Whether you're struggling with unreliable assistants who cancel last minute, or simply looking to elevate your execution, this episode provides actionable strategies to transform your support team into your greatest competitive advantage.Visit cwpsociety.com to access more resources and explore our membership levels designed to elevate your wedding planning business.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
Transcribe →Beyond the Badge: How CWP Society Elevates Wedding Planners
Mar 10, 202500:38:54Tap to summarizeWhat happens when wedding planners invest in their education? Co-host Krisy Thomas, Vice President of the CWP Society, interviews three award winning, Master Certified Wedding Planners and Industry Advancement Directors, who reveal the transformative power of professional certification in this candid conversation that goes far beyond basic credentials.For Brianne Ackerland, certification turned a hobby into a thriving business after she sought education to balance motherhood with entrepreneurship. Now ten plus years into her journey, she continues finding value in ongoing education: "I'm still learning new things, and that's one of the huge things I value about what the group has to offer."Nicole Martinez brought years of experience to her certification journey but discovered unexpected benefits. "It changed how I viewed myself," she reveals, explaining how validation from peers and structured workflows revolutionized her business approach. Her powerful insight about confidence resonates with planners at all experience levels. For newer planner Brittney Poole, certification provided critical pricing guidance and client targeting strategies. "I am super confident that I'm charging at the level I need to be," she shares, detailing how education helped her find work-life balance while raising two young children.Perhaps most remarkable is how these competitors-turned-collaborators exemplify the community-over-competition ethos. "We don't consider ourselves competition," Poole explains about her relationship with fellow Virginia planner Martinez. "We both serve a different clientele and know what works individually for our businesses."Looking to transform your wedding planning career? Visit https://www.cwpsociety.com/ to explore membership options and join a community where planners lift each other up rather than tear each other down.As mentioned in this episode, we covered the story of Brianne and her health journey in more depth in a past discussion. Listen to that episode here. www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
Transcribe →The Wedding Ministry Certification: A New Era of Church and Planner Partnerships
Feb 25, 202500:26:28Tap to summarizeEmma Cockerham, Master Certified Wedding Planner, Certified Educator and Owner of Infinity Events, joins Krisy Thomas, VP of the CWP Society, on this episode to share her journey from challenging church-hosted weddings to crafting the transformative Wedding Ministry Certification Course. By tackling the common issues faced when planning religious weddings, Emma reveals how her course, initially aimed at the Memphis church community, has expanded to inspire a broader change in the wedding planning industry. Encouraged by CWP Society's Founder & CEO, Laurie Hartwell, Emma's mission is to revamp wedding planning in religious settings, emphasizing joy, positivity, and inclusivity.Our conversation highlights the vital relationship between churches and wedding planners, exploring the need for effective procedures within church ministries. We discuss how outdated systems can create unnecessary barriers, instead of opportunities, for planting seeds of faith at weddings. By fostering mutual understanding and teamwork between planners and church coordinators, we can transform weddings into genuinely welcoming experiences for everyone involved. Emma provides valuable insights on how positive interactions can enhance the ministry, demonstrating the power of collaboration.We also delve into the empowering role of the Wedding Ministry Program offered by the CWP Society, which equips certified wedding planners with essential tools to support entire wedding ministries. By using resources like templates and communication strategies, planners can navigate diverse religious ceremonies with respect and intentionality. Emma’s call to action encourages wedding planners and listeners to embrace this course, joining a supportive community dedicated to advancing skills and knowledge at every career stage.This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to enrich the wedding experience for couples, churches, and planners alike.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
Transcribe →Educating Your Couples: Essential Strategies for Planning Success
Feb 18, 202500:27:37Tap to summarizeUnlock the Secrets to Educating Your Couples for a Seamless Planning ExperienceAs a wedding planner, one of your most important roles is educating your couples—helping them navigate the planning process with confidence and clarity. In this episode of Wedding Planner Pro Files, Krisy Thomas, Vice President of the CWP Society, is joined by Riley Snider, Certified Wedding Planner & Certified Educator, to discuss essential strategies for guiding couples through the complexities of wedding planning.From managing expectations shaped by Pinterest and TikTok to transforming scattered inspiration into a cohesive plan, Riley shares her expert insights on how to set couples up for success. Krisy and Riley dive into the key techniques for conducting effective budget meetings, ensuring couples understand common wedding expenses without feeling overwhelmed.They’ll also break down how to structure a planning timeline and checklist to keep clients on track. Learn why booking vendors and venues early is crucial, how Certified Wedding Planners provide invaluable peace of mind, and how tools like Timeline Genius can streamline communication and collaboration. Plus, Krisy and Riley explore the power of monthly check-ins for building trust and ensuring couples feel supported every step of the way.Finally, Riley shares her expertise on vendor education—how to help couples choose the right vendors, recognize red flags, and understand the value of an approved vendor list. Krisy and Riley discuss how to educate couples on reading reviews, conducting consultations, and asking the right questions. Plus, discover why contingency planning is an essential part of vendor selection and how joining the CWP Society can help planners refine their skills, strengthen their businesses, and turn planning challenges into growth opportunities.Join Krisy and Riley for this insightful conversation packed with practical, actionable strategies to enhance your role as an educator and elevate the experience you provide to your couples!www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
Transcribe →Nurturing Success: Mastering Vendor Relationships in the Wedding Industry
Feb 12, 202500:31:51Tap to summarizeDiscover the secrets to success in the wedding planning industry with our special guest, Certified Educator and Certified Wedding Planner, Amanda Borrero. Amanda joins us to share her invaluable insights on building robust vendor relationships that not only enhance business success but also create a thriving community of wedding professionals. You'll learn how to leverage selflessness and collaboration to foster mutually beneficial partnerships, and why these relationships are vital for both new and experienced planners looking to establish a strong industry presence.The conversation flows into the challenges and nuances of maintaining professional boundaries, especially when personal friendships intersect with business. Amanda shares her personal experiences and offers guidance on the importance of clear expectations and professional communication. We also explore the impact of social media on professional reputations, emphasizing the need for discretion and authenticity online. With practical advice and real-world examples, this episode equips listeners with the tools to navigate complex vendor relationships, ensuring successful collaborations and smooth wedding days.By approaching relationships with a genuine willingness to contribute, planners can unlock unexpected opportunities and personal growth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to strengthen their professional networks, enhance their career, and thrive in a competitive industry. Tune in to explore how nurturing these connections can lead to resilience and lasting success.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
Transcribe →From Passion to Profit: Financial Mastery for Wedding Experts
Feb 4, 202500:38:19Tap to summarizeUnlock the secrets to mastering financial management in the wedding industry with insights from our esteemed guest, Matt Mitchell. With his unparalleled expertise in both wealth management and event planning, Matt joins Laurie Hartwell, to tackle the unique financial challenges faced by wedding professionals. Discover how financial literacy can be a game-changer for wedding planners, equipping them to handle seasonal demands and unpredictable cash flow with confidence.Their conversation dives into the nuts and bolts of effective financial strategies specifically tailored for small business owners in the wedding industry. From tracking expenses meticulously to the importance of separating personal and business finances, Matt highlights practical steps to ensure profitability and sustainability. He emphasizes the critical habit of setting aside funds for taxes and regularly revisiting service costs and pricing to avoid common pitfalls like underpricing, which can threaten business longevity.Join us as we explore the crucial role of regular financial management practices, with tools like QuickBooks and services like The Event Ledger providing much-needed clarity and support. Learn how categorizing income and expenses can streamline your business operations, and why monthly bookkeeping is not just a task but a strategic move towards growth. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by financial tasks or just seeking a refresher, this episode promises valuable insights and resources to help wedding professionals transform their passion into a thriving, financially sound enterprise.The Event Ledger Waitlist: https://www.theeventledger.com/waitlistwww.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
Transcribe →Beyond Experience: Elevating the Standards of Wedding Planners (S4, E1)
Jan 23, 202500:06:38Tap to summarizeCan you imagine planning a $100,000 wedding without the right skills or support? Join me, Laurie Hartwell, as I share invaluable lessons planners learned (sometimes the hard way) about the importance of proper training and certification in navigating the challenges of wedding planning. This episode sheds light on why planners should not just "get experience" when they enter the industry, and how certification is more than just a piece of paper; it's a gateway to a professional network, mentorship, and the expertise needed to handle everything from contract law to crisis management.Listen as we explore why couples are increasingly seeking wedding planners who are certified, and how this elevates the entire industry. With 78% of couples preferring planners with credentials, we dive into the skills and knowledge that set certified professionals apart. Listen as Laurie guides aspiring and current planners through the critical components of a comprehensive certification program and emphasize the value of starting your career with a solid educational foundation. Don't miss this essential discussion about building confidence and capability in one of life's most significant celebrations.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
Transcribe →Unlocking Success in Wedding Planning: Building Community and Achieving Goals
Nov 25, 202400:34:39Tap to summarizeDiscover how to elevate your wedding planning career with the invaluable insights of Aisha Garnett, a Master Certified Wedding Planner and Certified Educator, in this episode of the Wedding Planner Profiles podcast. Unlock the secrets of connecting with seasoned professionals through the CWP Society and learn the art of finding your "wedding planner bestie" for mutual support and accountability. Aisha shares her personal journey and outlines the benefits of being part of a supportive network, especially when navigating the sometimes intimidating wider wedding industry.Engage with the power of educational initiatives and workshops designed to propel your career forward. Aisha highlights the role of the CWP Society's Wedding Pro Workshops, where collaboration thrives in a constructive environment, free from the negativity often found in online spaces. She also delves into the significance of business coaching calls, providing a platform to tackle both business and personal challenges. The conversation emphasizes the importance of a community that fosters accountability, helping you stay on track with your professional goals.Elevate your career through the limitless possibilities of goal setting in the wedding planning industry. Aisha’s narrative underscores how setting personal and professional goals can unlock numerous opportunities, and advocates for using the support of the CWP community to achieve them. Uncover the significance of certification as a testament to a planner's commitment to excellence and industry standards. This episode serves as an inspiring call to action, encouraging you to set, revisit, and achieve your goals, contributing positively to the future of the wedding industry. Join us to become part of a passionate community dedicated to raising the standards of wedding planning.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
Transcribe →The Power of Industry Relationships: Discovering The Secret To Success
Oct 31, 202400:34:42Tap to summarizeDiscover how authentic relationships can revolutionize your wedding planning business with insights from Amanda Borerro, owner of For the Love of Events. Gain practical tips on transforming professional connections into trusted friendships that foster collaboration and support. Amanda, along with hosts Krisy Thomas and Laurie Hartwell, shares the secrets to achieving seamless events through genuine engagement with vendors, moving beyond online presence to create a more meaningful network within the industry.Learn how selecting the right team can make all the difference in delivering exceptional experiences for your clients. We dive into the importance of vetting vendors and building a positive, supportive environment, particularly highlighting personal stories from the entertainment sector. Understanding the etiquette and considerations for forming vendor teams is crucial, as it enhances trust and collaboration. This episode offers a treasure trove of advice for up-and-coming planners and seasoned professionals alike, emphasizing kindness and positivity as cornerstones of success.Communication and professionalism take center stage as we explore the importance of setting clear expectations and maintaining boundaries with clients and vendors. Delve into the nuances of professional interactions and the significance of giving credit where it's due to foster a respectful community. Amanda and the hosts advocate for a planning approach rooted in kindness and grace, dispelling the myth that being bossy equates to effectiveness. Listen in to discover how nurturing genuine vendor relationships through small gestures and authentic interactions can lead to sustainable success without the hefty price tag of traditional marketing.www.cwpsociety.com | info@cwpsociety.com | IG: @cwpsociety | FB: @cwpsociety
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