Wedding Business Solutions

40 Episodes
Subscribe

By: Alan Berg, CSP, FPSA, Global Speaking Fellow

If weddings and events are all or part of your business, you’re in the right place.The Wedding Business Solutions podcast is where you’ll get real-world ideas to help you sell more, profit more, and maybe even enjoy the process a little more, too.Hosted by Alan Berg CSP, FPSA, one of the wedding and event industry’s most experienced sales and marketing speakers, each bite-sized episode gives you practical, easy-to-use ideas you can apply right away. Whether it’s converting more inquiries, following up without sounding pushy, improving your website, handling ghosting, raising your prices with confidence, or using...

✂️ Clip this podcast
If there's no risk of failure, there's no opportunity for growth
If there's no risk of failure, there's no opportunity for growth episode artwork
Today at 4:00 AM

Are you playing it too safe in your business, avoiding the chance to learn and stretch beyond your comfort zone? What could you accomplish if you focused less on the fear of failure, and more on the opportunities that come from simply trying something new—even if it doesn’t go as planned? In this episode, I share insights on reframing failure, recognizing unexpected wins, and taking control of how you respond when things don’t turn out the way you hoped.

Listen to this new 6-minute episode for motivation to embrace the risk of failure as your s...


ADHD is Awesome!
ADHD is Awesome! episode artwork
06/10/2026

Is ADHD really a superpower hiding in plain sight? What if the qualities you thought were obstacles are actually your greatest business assets? How can understanding a different perspective—whether it’s ADHD, autism, or dyslexia—change the way you work with clients and partners? In this episode, I reflect on how embracing neurodiversity helps us all see hidden strengths in ourselves and those around us, from hyper-focus to creative problem-solving, and why “different” often means “awesome.”

Listen to this new 7-minute episode for insights on using our unique brains to our advantage and building better, more understanding...


Becca Pountney - Marketing Theme Park or Marketing Funnel!
Becca Pountney - Marketing Theme Park or Marketing Funnel! episode artwork
06/08/2026

Are you still relying on the old marketing funnel—or ready to embrace the chaos of today’s “theme park” marketing world? What actually makes you stand out in a crowded industry, and are you tracking what works or just chasing the newest trends? In this episode, I sit down with UK wedding industry marketing expert Becca Pountney to explore her innovative “marketing theme park” concept, why data matters more than ever, and what it really takes to attract ideal couples in 2026 and beyond.

Listen to this new episode for smart strategies on getting visible, understanding your customers, a...


Do the names of your packages matter?
Do the names of your packages matter? episode artwork
06/03/2026

If your packages are named “silver, gold, platinum,” are you blending in with the crowd? Does the name of a package help your couples feel something or show what makes you different? In this episode, I share how creative package names—and the way you describe them—can set you apart and help sell the results only you can deliver.

Listen to this new 5-minute episode for ways to freshen up your package names, spark excitement in your conversations, and stand out from your competitors.

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of m...


If you don't like the outcome, don't blame the app or the tool
If you don't like the outcome, don't blame the app or the tool episode artwork
05/27/2026

If you don’t like the outcome, are you blaming the app, the tool, or taking a look at your own approach? Are you asking yourself if you’re using the right input, giving clear prompts, or even using the right tool for the job? In this episode, I dig into why blaming technology often misses the real cause, and how getting better results might be more about how you use the tool—not the tool itself.

Listen to this new 6-minute episode for a quick mindset shift on getting better results by focusing on your approach, not ju...


Andy Neillie - The silent leader!
Andy Neillie - The silent leader! episode artwork
05/25/2026

Are you making everything run smoothly without stepping into the spotlight? Are you letting your work speak for itself, or do you feel the need to get the credit? In this episode, I talk about the power and business impact of being a silent leader—how subtle direction, teamwork, and humility can elevate everyone’s experience (including the client’s) and strengthen your business relationships.

Listen to this new episode for insights on building trust, empowering your team, and making every event a seamless success—by leading from behind the scenes.


About Andy:

Best-s...


Is Anchoring bias hurting your sales?
Is Anchoring bias hurting your sales? episode artwork
05/20/2026

Is your starting price telling customers more than you think? Are you anchoring expectations too low—and then working uphill to justify your real value? What happens when clients see “starting at” and then get sticker shock when the actual results they want cost more? In this episode, I challenge the use of starting prices, reveal the power of anchoring bias, and discuss how reframing your pricing approach could help you sell for value—not from the bottom.

Listen to this new 8-minute episode for a fresh perspective on presenting your prices and why a range might work bet...


Hope for the unintended outcome!
Hope for the unintended outcome! episode artwork
05/13/2026

What if the best results in your business and life come from what you didn’t see coming? What if your last “failure” was actually a success in disguise? In this episode, I share stories of accidental inventions, personal surprises, and why looking for new opportunities in unexpected outcomes can be the real game-changer in both life and the wedding industry.

Listen to this new 8-minute episode for a fresh perspective on turning “failures” into unexpected wins and why being open to the unintended can lead to your next big success.

If you have any questions...


Tim Richardson - Are you practicing Pausitivity?
Tim Richardson - Are you practicing Pausitivity? episode artwork
05/11/2026

What if you paused—really paused—just long enough to let the best ideas surface? What possibilities could emerge for your business if you built in moments of quiet, or even a technology sabbatical? In this episode, I talk about how hitting the pause button can fuel innovation, help reset your mindset, and encourage out-of-the-box thinking for both you and your team.

Listen to this new episode for inspiration on using intentional pauses to recharge your creativity and discover fresh solutions by simply stepping back.

About Tim: 
Tim Richardson, CSP (Certified Speaking Professional), is a key...


Do you seek contrarian views?
Do you seek contrarian views? episode artwork
05/06/2026

Are you open to hearing opinions that challenge your own, or do you find yourself surrounded by people who always agree with you? What could you gain by inviting critical feedback before sharing your own perspective? In this episode, I share why the best leaders actively look for dissenting voices and how doing so leads to better decisions, using examples from both business and science (like Darwin!). Learn how questioning your assumptions can reveal blind spots, prevent costly mistakes, and ultimately help you grow—if you’re willing to listen.

Listen to this new 6-minute episode for prac...


Sunk cost bias - is this hurting your business?
Sunk cost bias - is this hurting your business? episode artwork
04/29/2026

Is sunk cost bias holding you back? Are you keeping an underperforming product, service, or employee just because you’ve already invested time or money? In this episode I challenge you to think about whether old investments are preventing you from making smarter decisions for your business—especially when starting fresh could actually move you forward.

Listen to this new 7-minute episode for eye-opening examples and practical ways to recognize (and move past) the sunk cost bias in your business decisions.

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or h...


Avish Parashar - What can improv teach us on how to crush apathy in our businesses?
Avish Parashar - What can improv teach us on how to crush apathy in our businesses? episode artwork
04/27/2026

Avish Parashar - What can improv teach us on how to crush apathy in our businesses?

Are you stuck in a cycle of “yes, but” thinking that keeps your business from growing? What if the real challenge to change isn’t resistance, but apathy? How can embracing improv’s “yes, and” mindset empower your team, crush burnout, and spark creativity? In this episode, I explore how recognizing and shifting your mindset can transform engagement in your business, with insights from improv and practical steps for moving from passive acceptance to genuine excitement—even in the face of overwhelm or u...


Pricing Transparency - why it matters!
Pricing Transparency - why it matters! episode artwork
04/22/2026

Are you scaring away potential clients without realizing it? Are you afraid to list your prices because you think it will hurt your inquiries, while as a consumer you always want to see the price yourself? In this episode, I talk about the power of pricing transparency—not just for budget shoppers, but at all price levels. How can sharing even a range help attract the right clients and save you time in the process? What if being more transparent is the real game-changer for your business?

Listen to this new 9-minute episode for practical advice on ba...


Can you make your own business obsolete before someone does it for you?
Can you make your own business obsolete before someone does it for you? episode artwork
04/15/2026

Are you holding onto products or services just because they've always worked—even if customers aren’t interested anymore? What if trimming the dead weight in your business could make space for more profit, innovation, or just more joy in your day-to-day? In this episode, I explore the importance of constantly evaluating what you offer, being willing to cut what's not working, and why it's crucial to stay one step ahead—even if others start copying you.

Listen to this new 6-minute episode for insight on deciding what to keep, what to cut, and how staying proactive can ke...


So, I had a conversation with ChatGPT, no really, I did, and you can hear it!
So, I had a conversation with ChatGPT, no really, I did, and you can hear it! episode artwork
04/13/2026

How can AI help you, not just someday, but right now do the things you already do, only better or faster? Are you stuck staring at analytics you don't understand? Is your website’s first impression still speaking to the couples of five years ago? In this episode, I have a conversation with ChatGPT (yes, an actual conversation) on how to use AI as your collaborator to interpret data, refresh your messaging, and become a stronger prompt engineer so you can amplify what’s already working in your business. 

Listen to this new 20-minute conversation I had with...


You've been prompting for years!
You've been prompting for years! episode artwork
04/08/2026

You've been prompting for years!

Are you getting the best results from your clients, employees, or even AI? Have you ever wondered why vague instructions lead to vague outcomes? In this episode, I explore how the way you communicate—whether with people or technology—impacts the results you get. Discover why context, clarity, and details in your input matter, and how they can bring you closer to the answers you need.

Listen to this new 5-minute episode for practical ways to give better direction and improve your outcomes—whether in business, with clients, or using AI.


People like to buy, they don’t like to be sold to!
People like to buy, they don’t like to be sold to! episode artwork
04/01/2026

Are your wedding clients feeling empowered to make their own choices, or are you unknowingly making them feel “sold to”? What friction are you adding that might be keeping them from saying yes? In this episode, I dig into why offering clear choices and real answers can help clients buy with confidence—rather than running the other way.

Listen to this new 10-minute episode for insight on how to remove buying barriers, answer questions, and turn your approach from salesy to supportive.

If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcas...


Beth Fox - Confessions of a Gen Z Bride
Beth Fox - Confessions of a Gen Z Bride episode artwork
03/30/2026

Are you losing couples before you even have a chance to connect? What if simply answering their first question—how much do you cost—was all it took to keep them from ghosting you? Would you book more show rounds if you made your pricing transparent and reduced the friction for Gen Z clients? In this episode, I share a first-hand account from a Gen Z bride and wedding industry insider about why she ghosted her first venue, what vendors are getting wrong with their first responses, and how follow-up and adding genuine value—not just sales tactics—can turn inq...


If you can't walk a mile in their shoes, at least take a few steps
If you can't walk a mile in their shoes, at least take a few steps episode artwork
03/25/2026

If you can't walk a mile in their shoes, at least take a few steps

You’ve probably been told that you should walk a mile in the shoes of your customers, to see what’s it’s like for them when shopping for a service or product like yours. But can you really walk a mile in their shoes if you’re not the same demographic, with no prior experience shopping for a product or service like yours? I don’t think so, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t at least take a few steps as they...


She said the quiet part out loud!
She said the quiet part out loud! episode artwork
03/18/2026

Are you treating your wedding inquiries like sales calls instead of conversations? What might you be missing when you skip the human touch and rush to booking a tour or a meeting? In this episode, I explore why couples want genuine connection, how industry habits lead to ghosting, and practical ways to start real conversations that win more bookings.

Listen to this new 9-minute episode for actionable advice on adapting your inquiry responses, reducing ghosting, and meeting couples where they are—so you convert more leads by creating meaningful engagement, not just transactions.

f you ha...


Anthony Lambatos, Footer's Catering - When Less is More!
Anthony Lambatos, Footer's Catering - When Less is More! episode artwork
03/16/2026

Is your business suffering from “mission creep”—trying to be everything to everyone? What would happen if you simplified your offerings and focused on doing one thing exceptionally well? In this episode, I explore how subtracting, not adding, can make your business and life better, and why aligning your work with joy and purpose leads to outstanding customer experiences.

Listen to this new episode for inspiration on simplifying your business, avoiding burnout, and creating exceptional experiences by focusing on what you love and doing it better every day.

About Anthony:
Anthony Lambatos believes heart-led leader...


What are you doing to get outside your comfort zone?
What are you doing to get outside your comfort zone? episode artwork
03/11/2026

How often do you hold yourself back because you’re waiting until you can do something perfectly? What have you learned or accomplished when you finally tried something new, even if it felt uncomfortable or you failed at first? In this episode, I share stories—from learning languages to playing piano live, to earning martial arts belts later in life—about how the best growth happens when we allow ourselves to be imperfect and take that first, shaky step beyond what’s familiar.

Listen to this new 8-minute episode for inspiration to step outside your comfort zone, embrace...


How can you be authentic in an AI world?
How can you be authentic in an AI world? episode artwork
03/04/2026

Are you giving AI enough of your own voice to create content that genuinely reflects who you are? What steps can you take to make sure the results you get from AI aren’t just generic, but uniquely yours? In this episode, I dig into how to use AI as a tool—starting from your website text, emails, and even telling stories out loud—to help you create personalized, authentic content that stands out. What if learning to personalize and really “teach” your AI could take your authenticity to the next level?

Listen to this new 10-minute episode fo...


Lester Young - Smart Goal Setting!
Lester Young - Smart Goal Setting! episode artwork
03/02/2026

What would your business look like if you removed all your self-imposed limitations? Are your goals based on your possibilities or your fears? What if you stopped focusing on the "what" and started with the "why"? In this episode, I talk with Lester Young about how powerful a mindset shift can be for goal setting, why your goals should start with clarity and vision (not just numbers), and how to keep yourself anchored even when business (or life) throws you off track.

Listen to this new episode for practical strategies to overcome limiting beliefs, create focused and...


We are not competing!
We are not competing! episode artwork
02/25/2026

Do you ever worry that someone else’s success is taking away from yours? What if focusing on how your competitors are doing actually keeps you from reaching your own goals? In this episode, I ask: Could you be more successful by putting your energy into your own unique results rather than measuring against the competition? What might you accomplish if you stopped defining success by someone else’s achievements? I’ll be sharing why your market is bigger than you think, why every client doesn’t need to be your client, and why your definition of success should be yours...


You can't motivate in the negative!
You can't motivate in the negative! episode artwork
02/18/2026

Are you leading your team by reminding them of what not to do—or are you focusing on what you want to achieve together? Do negative approaches hold you back from moving forward after setbacks? In this episode, I dig into why positive motivation is the key for yourself and your business, share lessons from my experience, and hint at practical ways to get past sunk costs and focus on winning together.

Listen to this new 7-minute episode for guidance on choosing positive motivation, moving past failures, and leading your team forward, no matter the challenges.

...


Brian Lawrence - Answer Engine Optimization
Brian Lawrence - Answer Engine Optimization episode artwork
02/16/2026

Is your website truly speaking the language of AI, or are you getting lost in translation? What happens when couples use AI to search for wedding pros—are you coming up as the answer, or is your competitor? In this episode, I dive into how the way we search has changed, why it’s not just about traditional SEO anymore, and what practical steps you can take to help AI understand your business accurately. Learn how a simple page hidden from your navigation could be the game-changer in your online visibility, and why regularly updating your reviews and fresh cont...


More leads is not your goal!
More leads is not your goal! episode artwork
02/11/2026

Is more always better when it comes to leads? What would happen if you focused on quality over quantity, and spent more time following up with the inquiries you already have, rather than trying to get even more? In this episode, I challenge you to reconsider your goal: are you drowning in leads but struggling with conversion? I’ll hint at smarter ways to qualify inquiries, use technology for better follow-up, and look in the mirror before blaming your sources. What if better conversion—and not sheer volume—was actually the key to your success?

Listen to this n...


The goal isn't to finish, the goal is to begin
The goal isn't to finish, the goal is to begin episode artwork
02/04/2026

What’s stopping you from starting that new project or habit? Are you setting your sights too far ahead, worrying about the finish line instead of taking your first step? In this episode, I explore how progress is built one action at a time, and why focusing on getting started unlocks personal and business growth. What would happen if you let go of perfection, and allowed yourself to be a beginner more often?

Listen to this new 8-minute episode for motivation, practical examples, and a challenge to take one small step toward your next big goal—today.


Dana Bahr - Marketing with Pinterest now!
Dana Bahr - Marketing with Pinterest now! episode artwork
02/02/2026

Are you relying on Instagram for wedding leads, while your ideal clients are flocking to Pinterest for inspiration? Wondering how you can turn your real-life wedding work into content that lasts longer and brings in more qualified leads? Curious about how Pinterest trends and search behavior can help you stand out and book more couples? In this episode, I dive into how to harness Pinterest as a search engine, repurpose your best content for lasting visibility, and use analytics and timing—not just volume—to connect with couples where they're planning their big day.

Listen to this new...


Why is it still so hard to find a phone number these days?
Why is it still so hard to find a phone number these days? episode artwork
01/28/2026

Why is it still so hard to find a phone number these days?

Are you unintentionally making it difficult for potential clients to contact you? What happens when someone wants to reach you urgently, but can’t find a phone number or email—do they just move on? In this episode, I share real examples and insights on why accessibility matters and how simple changes, like displaying your phone number or streamlining your contact form, can make all the difference in winning or losing business.

Listen to this new 7-minute episode for practical ideas on maki...


Well, that didn't go according to plan!
Well, that didn't go according to plan! episode artwork
01/21/2026

What have you tried lately that didn’t turn out as you hoped? Are you holding back on a new idea because you fear it won’t work? In this episode, I share my own story about taking chances, learning from things that didn’t work, and why the real failure is not trying at all. What could happen if you stopped waiting and started taking action—even if you don’t have all the answers?

Listen to this new 5-minute episode for a dose of encouragement to try something new, embrace detours, and take the first step towar...


Allison Shapira - AI for the Authentic Leader
Allison Shapira - AI for the Authentic Leader episode artwork
01/19/2026

Can AI make you sound more human? Can you use technology to connect authentically—without turning into a robot? In this episode, I share lessons from Allison Shapira’s new book and our conversation about striking the right balance between efficiency and genuine connection. Are you using AI to amplify your authentic voice, or are you leaving the human touch behind? What are the boundaries we need to draw so our communications—whether wedding vows or emails—stay personal and impactful in the age of AI?

Listen to this new episode for practical ways to make AI work for...


It's that time of the year to see the things you're doing wrong!
It's that time of the year to see the things you're doing wrong! episode artwork
01/07/2026

It's that time of the year to see the things you're doing wrong!

Are you making it easy enough for people to reach you? What does your website say about your business—does a forgotten copyright date hint that you might be neglecting other details? In this episode, I talk about simple things you might be overlooking that could create friction and cost you real clients, plus how freshening up your content and contact options can make a big difference.

Listen to this new 9-minute episode for actionable tips on updating your site so you do...


Roy Porter - The 9 Wastes & The Hidden Event
Roy Porter - The 9 Wastes & The Hidden Event episode artwork
01/05/2026

Roy and I did this as a webinar recently for VenueX AI, and it went so well that I thought all of my listeners should hear it. Enjoy!

Behind every seamless celebration is a mountain of unseen planning, coordination, and human potential. Are you over-processing without realizing it? Are you tapping into the hidden talents of your team, or letting valuable skills slip by? In this episode, we dig into the “nine wastes” that sneak into your workflow, practical ways to streamline processes, and the power of small improvements—plus a story about discovering amazing talent in the mo...


Here are the stats for our secret shopping this year!
Here are the stats for our secret shopping this year! episode artwork
12/31/2025

Are you following up enough with the couples who already reached out to you? What could your business be missing out on if you only reply once—or not at all? In this episode, I break down the latest secret shopping stats, what they reveal about wedding businesses, and how simple tweaks—like ending your emails with a single question or not overloading messages with attachments—can make all the difference in response rates and bookings. If your biggest opportunity is working with leads who haven’t said no, are you really maximizing it?

Listen to this new 11-m...


Boy, I wish I had this kind of training when I was starting out!
Boy, I wish I had this kind of training when I was starting out! episode artwork
12/24/2025

What if you'd had just one great book or course when you began your wedding business? How much further could you have gone? Are you investing in the right training for yourself and your team, or just hoping for the best? In this episode, I talk about how investing in your own knowledge—and your team's—pays off in sales, confidence, and retention, sharing stats and stories from my journey in sales and the wedding industry.

Listen to this new 9-minute episode for stats, insights, and simple ways to invest in yourself and your business so you can...


Jason Hewlett - The Promise to The One
Jason Hewlett - The Promise to The One episode artwork
12/22/2025

Jason Hewlett - The Promise to The One

Are you keeping the promises that matter most—to your clients, your team, and yourself? What opportunities are you willing to walk away from to stay true to your values? In this episode, I explore how honoring your promise, even when it means saying no, leads to greater success and deeper fulfillment—in weddings, business, and life.

Listen to this new 29-minute episode for real-world stories and practical ways to make your promises your brand—and find lasting purpose beyond just chasing the next sale.

About...


Is it just me, or is customer service getting worse?
Is it just me, or is customer service getting worse? episode artwork
12/17/2025

Have you ever wondered why customer service feels more frustrating lately? Are chatbots making things easier or harder for your clients? What would happen if you walked in your customers' shoes and really asked: “Would I want to be treated this way?” In this episode, I share personal stories of surprising fees, AI mishaps, and inconsistent policies, all with the goal to help you spot the friction points in your business and turn them into opportunities to stand out.

Listen to this new 10-minute episode for simple changes you can make today to reduce customer friction, improve serv...


Take time to look back!
Take time to look back! episode artwork
12/10/2025

Take time to look back!

As we near the end of the year, are you pausing to reflect on what truly went well in your wedding business? Are you focusing too much on the challenges and forgetting to celebrate your wins? What have you accomplished that you didn’t notice while you were “in the moment”? In this episode, I share how looking back can reveal growth, gratitude, and new ways to invest in yourself and your business—for a better year ahead.

Listen to this new 6-minute episode for practical inspiration on celebrating your successe...