Planner Life Podcast | A Podcast For Wedding Planners

The Planner Life Podcast, your go-to destination for all things wedding planning and business mastery. Hosted by Heather Hoesch Olsen, a highly experienced wedding planner, industry educator, and your professional friend in the world of weddings. Join Heather every week as she shares her wealth of knowledge and experience gained from over two decades in the wedding industry. With a passion for crafting unforgettable moments and a keen eye for detail, Heather's journey has taken her through every facet of wedding planning imaginable. From intimate gatherings to lavish affairs, from budget-conscious ceremonies to extravagant celebrations, Heather has seen it all. But her expertise extends far beyond just executing flawless events. Heather is on a mission to empower and inspire planners like you to reach new heights in your business. Through candid conversations, expert interviews, and actionable insights, the Planner Life Podcast is your compass for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the wedding industry. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, tune in each week to learn, grow, and be inspired. Heather's unique blend of creativity, wisdom, and practical advice will leave you feeling confident and equipped to tackle any challenge that comes your way. So, if you're ready to elevate your skills, build a thriving business, and join a supportive community of like-minded professionals, then the Planner Life Podcast is your must-listen resource. Welcome to the Planner Life! Questions, comments or want to connect with Heather: Email: [email protected] IG: @plannerlifeacademy @plannerlifepodcast Website: plannerlifeacademy.com

072: Fallon Carter & The Importance of Mentorship 04/23/2025

072: Fallon Carter & The Importance of Mentorship Hi planners, welcome to this week's episode. It's one that is equal parts laughter as it is filled with nuggets of insight. Meet my next guest, Fallon Carter. Fallon is the founder and creative director of Fallon Carter Events. She has been named one of the top wedding planners in the world by Harper's Bazaar, Vogue, and Brides Magazine. Fallon is well known for connecting southern hospitality with international luxury. As you'll hear in this episode, Fallon's journey began after helping a friend with her three-day Paris wedding. Fallon soon fell in love with the organization, logistics, and the process of planning. So she left law school and began the life of an entrepreneur, launching Fallon Carter Events in New York in 2012. Finding the joy in adventure, travel, and alfresco dining, Fallon leaned into the destination, events, and experiences. In this conversation, you'll hear how incredibly natural it is for Fallon that she focuses on destination events and how travel is a massive part of her life, including how she's taking this year to live a nomad life in Japan, Mexico, France, Angola, and more. But one of the most interesting things about our conversation is that despite being well-known, well-respected, and highly sought after, she too struggles with perfectionism and negative self-talk. We dive into that a bit and I'm so appreciative of Fallon's honesty. We also talk about how crucial relationships and referrals are to her success and how after many conversations with planners seeking advice, Fallon has started officially offering advice for those looking to learn from her, her experience that has so often been learned the hard way. In this episode: Fallon Carter specializes in destination weddings and event planning. Her first wedding experience in Paris ignited her passion for planning. Networking and referrals were crucial in her early career. She emphasizes the importance of having a financial safety net when starting a business. Fallon did not seek formal education but learned through experience and mentorship. Perfectionism and self-critique are ongoing challenges for her. Destination planning is both thrilling and stressful due to various challenges. She believes in the power of community and sharing knowledge among planners. Fallon reflects on the importance of learning from mistakes in her career. Her journey highlights the significance of finding one's unique strengths in event planning. Resourcefulness is key in destination weddings. Understanding client needs is crucial for successful planning. The ideal client trusts the planner and focuses on the marriage. Word of mouth is the best marketing strategy. Diversifying business can create new revenue streams. Mentorship can provide valuable insights and guidance. Every conversation can lead to mutual learning and growth. Future plans should align with personal passions and interests. Simplicity in weddings can be refreshing and meaningful. Connect with Fallon: Fallon Carter Events Podcast - /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/35709215

071: Green Flag vs. Red Flag Inquiries 03/19/2025

070: LIVE from the Mastering Management Workshop - Planner Panel Discussion 03/12/2025

070: LIVE from the Mastering Management Workshop - Planner Panel Discussion Hi planners! Welcome to this week’s episode. I have something special for you and I am really excited to share it. We recorded live the Planner Panel from the Mastering Management workshop. My guests are both returning to the podcast - Christine Garrison owner of CMG Events and Candice Sanders of Engaged Events. In addition to a great conversation, you can hear a bit about what the conversations are like at our workshops. If you want to learn more about Wedding Management, be sure to be on the lookout for the new Management Template Bundle launching soon! In this episode: Budget conversations are inherently challenging and require clear communication. It's essential to set realistic budget expectations with clients from the start. Coordination should be the foundational step for anyone entering the wedding planning industry. Feedback from clients and vendors is crucial for building confidence in your work. Identifying green flags in clients can lead to more successful collaborations. Team dynamics are crucial in event planning. Hiring should focus on trust and brand representation. Experience in various styles enhances planning skills. Building relationships is key to business success. Clear communication sets expectations with clients. Balancing motherhood and work requires strong boundaries. Support networks are essential for entrepreneurs. Logistics should take precedence over aesthetics. Patience is vital for long-term success in planning. Establishing clear office hours helps manage client expectations. Establishing clear protocols helps manage expectations. Building relationships with vendors is crucial for business growth. Coordination services can be a distinct brand offering. The wedding planning industry is evolving with new roles. Pricing strategies should reflect the value of services offered. Upselling can create additional revenue streams. Finding your niche allows for mastery in your field. You can successfully offer both coordination and planning services. Happy Planning! Xo, Heather /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/35394225

069: Let's Talk About Confidence 02/26/2025

068: New Year, New Feels 02/12/2025

067: Holly Gray, "No Is A complete Sentence" 02/05/2025

066: Jessica Upton, "Travel Advisor & Planner Relationship" 01/29/2025

066: Jessica Upton, "Travel Advisor & Planner Relationship" Meet my next guest, Jessica Upton. Jessica Upton is the owner of J. Upton Travel, a Austin, Texas based company that partners with wedding planners to manage all things travel for weddings and destination events. With over a decade of experience as a wedding planner herself, Jessica knows firsthand the challenges planners face when it comes to group travel, room blocks, and hotel contracts. She works closely with planners to source the best hotels, negotiate favorable terms, and provide ongoing support to ensure a smooth travel experience for both clients and their guests. Jessica's goal is to take the stress out of the travel planning process so planners can really focus on creating the perfect event for their couples. As you will hear, Jessica worked at a wedding venue as a hotel catering sales manager and then owned her own planning company for 12 years. It was during that time she realized she didn't want to be a planner forever. She started to dip into travel by supporting her couples in room block management, destination travel management, airport travel, airport transfers, and honeymoons. It was then she realized she would need to pick a lane and J. Upton travel was it. I love hearing Jessica's story and insight as she educates us on the difference between a travel agent and a travel advisor. She shares more about how planners can and should have a few travel advisors to lean on for room blocks, honeymoon referrals. But most of all, planners should have a trusted partner to help support your couple and their guests at destination weddings. Please enjoy my conversation with Jessica Upton. In this episode, we discuss: Travel advisors and wedding planners can work together effectively. Jessica transitioned from wedding planning to travel due to personal experiences. The pandemic significantly impacted the wedding industry and planning. Modern travel advisors offer personalized services beyond just booking. Collaboration is key for successful destination weddings. Travel advisors can help alleviate stress for couples planning honeymoons. It's important to find a travel advisor that specializes in desired destinations. Building relationships with travel advisors can enhance service quality. Travel advisors can provide valuable insights into hotel logistics. The travel industry is evolving, and planners should adapt accordingly. Connect with Jessica | This episode is supported by Planner Life Academy. In case you didn't know, we created Planner Life Academy for planners to have the education, tools and resources we wish we had. For me, I love sharing all the tips, tools and insight into all the little ways you can provide an amazing experience for your couples, their family and friends. I think one of the best places to really make sure you are making a great first impression is at the rehearsal. For so many planners, the ceremony rehearsal is something that is stressful and annoying, but I love it! And I think with the right script you will enjoy it too. So I created a free rehearsal audio recording where I walk you through exactly how I run a ceremony rehearsal. So you can have my tried and true process to create your own rehearsal script allowing you to start every wedding with confidence and making a great impression. Get the rehearsal recording today : Join me each week! Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform so you will never miss an episode. Keep the conversation going and get more free content, info on upcoming workshops and more over on and @plannerlifepodcast on Instagram. I love to see your tags and reposts of the episodes you are enjoying! Ready to up level your wedding planning business? There are so many resources available for you at . Be well and happy planning! xo, Heather /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/34789835

065: Ashley Thompson, The Power of Yes 01/15/2025

064: That's A Wrap on 2024 12/19/2024

063: Natalie Good, A Good Affair 11/06/2024

063: Natalie Good, A Good Affair Hi planners! Before I introduce you to my next guest, I wanted to make sure that you heard that the new PlannerLifeAcademy.com is live! I am beyond excited for you to see it, and more importantly, the four new workshops for 2025, including the first one in January, which is Mastering Management, a Wedding Coordination and Wedding Day-focused 2-day in-person workshop. Be sure to check out the site for more info and to grab your seat before they're gone! Now, my next guest is Natalie Good. Known for being a creative force behind A Good Affair, Natalie began her passion for design as a young girl. She was always exploring through art, painting, drawing, and design. Paired with her desire to find any reason to bring friends together for a party, it's no surprise that A Good Affair was born. For Natalie, being able to combine her two passions to become one of Orange County's most sought after event designers is a dream come true. Since starting A Good Affair, Natalie has grown to now only taking on full service design and production. Natalie has a way of creating a concept from nothing into a fully detailed celebration that wows at every turn. While creativity and vision are essential at any good affair event,the production and execution are what truly set it apart. Natalie's an Orange County based planner as well. So we've known each other for a very long time. It's fun to get to have a conversation like this. As you will hear, we share a background in catering and love for animals. Natalie shares how really getting an understanding of her strengths and weaknesses have helped her build a strong team.She talks about her love for florals and how much her business has grown and changed over the years. She shares so much advice and insight. In this Episode: Meet Natalie Good: A Journey in Event Planning Early Influences and Creative Beginnings Navigating Education and Career Choices Finding Passion in Event Management The Evolution of Event Planning From Florals to Full-Service Planning Building a Team and Brand Awareness The Journey to Ultra Luxury Events Embracing Fearlessness in Design Connect with Natalie Good, A Good Affair | /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/33546782

062: Thomas Bui 10/23/2024

062: Thomas Bui My next guest is Thomas Bui. Thomas is the founder and creative director of Thomas Bui Lifestyle, a San Diego based company. With 24 years of experience producing weddings and events, Thomas and his team have worked in Italy, France, England, Asia, and Mexico. Thomas Bui Lifestyle has been featured in Martha Stewart weddings, the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Vogue, and Brides to name a few. Thomas also guests lectures at universities on the business of luxury weddings. I've known Thomas for a long time and it was so fun to have this conversation today. We talk about how early childhood experiences inform his love for fashion and dressing to impress. How he formerly had another career that was more of a family business and that he pivoted to pursue event planning back when it was far less popular. We talk about how important confidence is and how much he loves challenges of new destinations. We talk about the extreme expectations that luxury and ultra luxury clients have. And we talk about our love-hate relationship with perfection. At the end, he gives me probably one of the kindest compliments describing me in a way I would hope to be perceived by my peers. It's a good reminder of how impactful being a cheerleader in this industry can be. Key takeaways from this episode: There are seasons in life where balance is achieved. Community over competition is essential in the event planning industry. Knowledge is power; sharing ideas helps everyone grow. Attention to detail can make or break an event. Destination weddings offer unique challenges and rewards. Confidence is crucial for success in event planning. You must adapt to different seasons in your business. Building a strong team is challenging but necessary. Experience is key to gaining confidence in planning. You have to charge your worth to sustain your business. Connect with Thomas | /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/33144362

061: Erica Adams 10/16/2024

061: Erica Adams Hi planners, my next guest is Erica Adams. Erica is an event producer and the creative mind behind Erica Adams Design. With over seven years of experience, she specializes in crafting memorable weddings and a variety of other events from corporate gatherings to brand activations. Known for her meticulous attention to detail and innovative approach, Erica brings a unique vision to every celebration she produces. Erica has been named top planner by Brides and Martha Stewart Weddings, and her work has been featured in People and Essence. I have been a big fan of Erica's over the last few years and was so excited to chat with her! In this episode, we talk about how her work experience was building the foundation for this career without her even realizing. We talk about how her health played a pivotal role in her career path and how hard COVID was when she was trying to build a new planning business. She's candid about some of the privilege she had in that season that really allowed her to be strategic about her next moves. And we talk about how important relationships are and how they continue to be for her success. Erica shares how an unexpected referral turned out to be an NBA client and how she's now the go -to for many athletes and high profile couples. One of my favorite things about this conversation is how Erica shares advice on shadowing other vendors and having a never stop learning attitude. Please enjoy my conversation with Erica Adams. Connect with Erica | This episode is supported by Planner Life Academy. In case you didn't know, we created Planner Life Academy for planners to have the education, tools and resources we wish we had. For me, I love sharing all the tips, tools and insight into all the little ways you can provide an amazing experience for your couples, their family and friends. I think one of the best places to really make sure you are making a great first impression is at the rehearsal. For so many planners, the ceremony rehearsal is something that is stressfull and annoying, but I love it! And I think with the right script you will enjoy it too. So I created a free rehearsal audio recording where I walk you through exactly how I run a ceremony rehearsal. So you can have my tried and true process to create your own rehearsal script allowing you to start every wedding with confidence and making a great impression. Get the rehearsal recording today : /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/33314347

060: Exciting Announcements 10/16/2024

059: Reagan Kerr 10/02/2024

059: Reagan Kerr My next guest is Reagan Kerr of Reagan Events. With years of experience managing luxury events worldwide, Regan accepted her first client in 2012 and Reagan Events was born. Today, Reagan leads the firm as creative director and executive producer and is involved in the overall management of each event. She plays an integral role in the design origination and curates vendor teams for each client. Reagan believes no dream is too big or detail too small. She appreciates thoughtful design and impeccable service. Reagan's greatest inspiration stems from the love she sees in others. She strives to create beautifully tailored memories worthy of the milestone being celebrated and is deeply fulfilled watching the joy of her clients as they live the experience she has shaped for them. Reagan is the sweetest, most open, and as you'll learn, highly experienced planner. She's easy to talk with, learn from, and I'm honored to call her a new friend. In this episode, we talk about how a professor in college gave Reagan perfectly timed advice, how she worked in smaller industry jobs to get more experience, and then landed a job with a big planner that helped her build her experience and confidence to start her own company. Over the years, life and business have changed for Reagan, and she shares insight into pushing forward, even when it's hard, setting boundaries, and chasing your dreams. In this episode: Reagan's journey began with a passion for wedding planning from a young age. The importance of mentorship and learning from experienced planners. Navigating the challenges of being valued in the wedding industry. The significance of building strong vendor relationships. Emphasizing the need for a solid money mindset in business. The impact of personal struggles on professional growth. Innovative services can create new opportunities in the wedding industry. The importance of sharing your goals with others. Advice for aspiring planners to start at the level they want to end up. The value of authenticity and real connections in the wedding industry. Connect with Reagan Events | And listen to her podcast This episode is supported by Planner Life Academy. In case you didn't know, we created Planner Life Academy for planners to have the education, tools and resources we wish we had. For me, I love sharing all the tips, tools and insight into all the little ways you can provide an amazing experience for your couples, their family and friends. I think one of the best places to really make sure you are making a great first impression is at the rehearsal. For so many planners, the ceremony rehearsal is something that is stressful and annoying, but I love it! And I think with the right script you will enjoy it too. So I created a free rehearsal audio recording where I walk you through exactly how I run a ceremony rehearsal. So you can have my tried and true process to create your own rehearsal script allowing you to start every wedding with confidence and making a great impression. Get the rehearsal recording today : /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/33052432

058: Adrienna McDermott of Ava & The Bee 09/25/2024

058: Adrienna McDermott of Ava & The Bee My next guest is Adrienna McDermott of Ava And The Bee. As a former wedding professional and current agency owner who has served over 250 vendors around the world, Adrienna is a sought-after thought leader in the world of wedding marketing and strategy. After spending many years as a bridal boutique owner, wedding planner, and florist, she intimately understands the challenges that vendors face in the always-changing digital world and how important it is to stand out from the rest. Ava & the Bee, is the in-house marketing studio for wedding professionals ready for inclusive, results-driven marketing that creates freedom in their business and cultivates a client connection and experience before they even speak with you. In this episode Adrienna shares her story and how she got an early start by leaping into a wedding business and partnership. She shares how an impactful moment in her life led her to shift gears and how Ava and the Bee was born. As I am sure you can tell by the guests we have on here, I love experts that are or were formerly planners. I think it’s so helpful for us all to hear their stories and to learn from experts that really understand the unique struggles the wedding industry faces so you have solutions to those challenges as well as the advice and insight into how to improve your business strategies. In this episode: Adrienna’s Story Balancing the Client Experience and Business Strategy Reinventing Yourself in the Wedding Industry The Importance of Supportive Wedding Community Starting a Marketing Agency for Wedding Professionals The Importance of a Strong Website Building Trust and Consistent Messaging Advice for Planners at Different Stages Leveraging Your Vendor Network Services Offered by Adrienna's Agency, Ava & the Bee Connect with Ava and the Bee | | | DIY Website & Social Media Audit Today's episode is brought to you by the Planner Life Academy online course. What is the most important thing to do when you want to become a successful wedding planner? Whether you're just starting out or you're ready to level up, these questions constantly creep in. How can I charge more? How do I book more clients? How can I do this better? This must not be this hard. Everybody else seems to be doing better than me. I've been there. And I've learned so many things the hard way so that you don't have to. The thing is, the path to overcoming doubt is different for everyone, and you can't Google your way to success. I have done over 900 weddings and events, and I've learned so many ways to improve my customer experience, organization, design skills, and wedding day process. And after years of hosting in -person workshops for planners, we created an online course so planners can learn what they need to succeed from the comfort of their own home. If you want to do this, you can, and we're here to show you how. And this just isn't any wedding planner certification. It's everything I have learned over the last 20 years poured into an easy to learn online course that will teach you how to start your business, implement processes. How to create templates, how to guide your clients through each and every step of planning, how to be a great leader, and more importantly, how to build a great reputation so that you can build a sustainable wedding business. The Planner Life Academy online course is 45 topics, over 16 hours of video lessons, and all of our templates to help you make immediate upgrades to your business. Friend, please stop doubting that you have what it takes to succeed. Get everything you need to build your career as a professional wedding planner. Visit to start today. /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/32892897

057: Katie Webb Brundige of Intertwined Inc. 09/18/2024

057: Katie Webb Brundige of Intertwined Inc. Meet my next guest, Katie Webb Brundige of the powerhouse company, Intertwined Inc. Katie brings a wealth of experience to the table as an entrepreneur with 18 plus years of experience in hospitality, events and design. She specializes in full service luxury event planning, overseeing everything from production and curated design to vendor coordination and executing multi -day experiences. Her keen eye for refined aesthetics and unwavering attention to detail allows for her to craft unique spaces and creative displays for weddings, galas, and charity functions locally, nationally, and worldwide. She received her bachelor's degree in hospitality and tourism management with an emphasis in event management from San Diego State University. Postgraduate, she served as a meeting coordinator in planning events for three Fortune 500 companies. Currently, she's the co -founder of Intertwined Inc., which consists of brands Intertwined Events, Become Intertwined, Reserve, and RadCamp, which is an incredible nonprofit that supports those with developmental disabilities. As planners with a similar career timeline in the same Orange County market, I've had the pleasure of a front row seat to the impressive company Katie and her business partner, Megan, have built. If you're a planner really wanting to build a strong brand, a strong reputation, and a big team, here is someone you should definitely look up to. I'm honored to call her a colleague, a peer, and a friend. In this episode we discuss: Volunteering, and the impact that had on her life and career. Katie’s background in Corporate Event Planning. Intertwined Inc and it’s growth and evolution over the years. Growing a team, hiring and team culture. Developing systems and processes, especially during downtime, can help streamline operations and ensure a smooth workflow. Finding balance as a business owner is challenging but important. Running a wedding planning business requires treating it like a business. Transparency, trust, and ethical practices are crucial in the wedding planning industry. Raising prices is necessary for growth. Networking and building relationships are key to growing a wedding planning business. Connect with Katie | | | | /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/32853622

056: Alison Bryan Destinations 09/11/2024

056: Alison Bryan Destinations My next guest is Alison Lesser Keck. Alison and her husband Bryan are the owners and brilliant minds behind Alison-Bryan Destinations. Alison is a San Francisco and Santa Barbara native who has produced over 400 weddings, from exquisite gatherings in private estates to massive weekends to week long productions in destinations globally. Alison and Bryan have been recognized by Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Brides, Over the Moon, and Elle Magazine as one of the top wedding planners in the world. In this episode, Alison and I discuss how she and Bryan got an early start in five -star hospitality that really set them on a path for luxury -experienced focused weddings. We talk about the importance of building strong relationships, how destination weddings require a passion for travel and logistics, how having systems in place is essential for scaling a wedding planning business. We talk about how faking it till you make it is actually terrible advice and how important it is to set boundaries and take care of your own wellbeing to avoid burnout. We talk about how many years of experience reinforces our belief that trust and connections with clients are absolutely imperative to create unique and personalized experiences. In this episode: The Journey to Destination Weddings Scaling the Business and the Role of Systems The Dynamics of Working as a Team Moving from Michigan to Santa Barbara The Importance of Being a Traveler in Destination Planning Navigating Different Cultures and Customs Staffing Strategies for Destination Weddings Evolving Your Business and Setting Boundaries Creating Trust and Personalized Experiences for Clients Favorite takeaways: Building strong relationships is crucial in the wedding planning industry. Pivoting to destination weddings requires a passion for travel and logistics. Having systems in place is essential for scaling a wedding planning business. Understanding cultural nuances is important when planning destination weddings. Start small and specialize in a specific destination to build knowledge and expertise. Respect and understand local customs and practices when working in different cultures. Build a core team that has been with you for years and hire locals for specific tasks. Set boundaries and take care of your own well-being to avoid burnout. Build trust and connections with clients to create unique and personalized experiences. Connect with Alison-Bryan Destinations | /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/32766562

055: Kelley Gilster 08/28/2024

055: Kelley Gilster My next guest is Kelley Gilster. Kelley is a cinematographer based in Southern California. She runs 618 studios with her husband, Paul, and this year they celebrate their 14th year in business. Kelley and Paul and I have been fortunate to work together numerous times over the years and really grew up in the industry together. They have supported planner life through speaking and helping produce the online course and testimonials. After over a decade in the industry, Kelley has become an educator alongside her business partner, Taylor Petrinovich, a Napa based videographer over at the Level Up Co. Kelley and Taylor teach photographers and filmmakers how to elevate their businesses to successfully break out the mainstream market and into the luxury wedding market. It was so fun to bring this conversation to the podcast as Kelley and I often chat about the industry, best practices and share insight into what we learned from our events and our education platforms. In this episode, Kelley shares how a specific class in high school set her on this path to wedding filmmaking and how as high school sweethearts and newlyweds, Kelley and Paul have always been a team. I love how Kelley shares how she edited their wedding video and then 618 Studios was born. Kelley gives great perspective on what up and coming video and photo might be learning as they shift to working more with planners. Kelley shares such great insight like advice for planners on educating couples on the deliverables unique to wedding films. She shares when and how you can help set up your video team for success throughout the wedding day. We chat changes in the industry, new trends, and Kelley shares her reason for becoming an educator. In this episode, we discuss: Kelly's Journey in the Wedding Industry Starting and Growing the Business Outgrowing Markets and Pricing Recognizing When to Move On Planners as Matchmakers Portfolio and Ideal Client Avatar Understanding Video Deliverables Timing and Wedding Day Schedule Optimizing Timing for Pre-Ceremony Activities The Importance of Dedicated Time for Filmmakers Building Relationships Between Planners and Filmmakers Educating Filmmakers for Success in the Luxury Market Connect with Kelley | | | | This episode is supported by Sunday Muse Design. We know that you are knee-deep in wedding planning chaos, juggling a million details and striving to make every moment perfect. Not to mention trying to navigate and puzzle-piece together overlapping timelines while simultaneously consoling stressed-out clients. Safe to say... you're busy. Here's the thing: Shannon from Sunday Muse Design knows what that feels like. She remembers the whirlwind of coordinating everything down to the tiniest detail. And the one thing that always felt like an extra burden? Managing her own brand and website. Shannon took her love for design and her understanding of the wedding industry and founded Sunday Muse Design. They offer custom web design, brand identity, and SEO services tailored specifically for wedding planners and creatives. They actually understand the challenges you face, and they're here to make your online presence effortless and effective. If you're ready to elevate your brand and website, visit or find them on Instagram @sundaymusedesign. And be sure to mention that you heard about Sunday Muse Design through the Planner Life Podcast can get 10% off any Sunday Muse Design service booked. /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/32562357

054: Ask Me Anything with Karen 08/21/2024

053: Sara Does SEO 08/14/2024

053: Sara Does SEO This week’s guest is Sara Dunn of Sara Does SEO. Sara Dunn is the Wedding SEO Specialist for wedding planners, photographers, venues, and other wedding professionals who want their websites to rank higher on Google. With a knack for making SEO easy to understand, she’s created a unique Wedding SEO Framework that simplifies what it takes to get your wedding business in front of your dream clients. Sara has been featured by Honeybook, Special Events, and NACE. She was named a WeddingPro educator for 2023 and has presented to audiences including WeddingPro, WIPA, Wedding MBA, and Two Bright Lights. In the last year, her framework has helped over 1 million searchers find the wedding pros and advice they’re looking for. If you’re ready to reach rockstar status on Google, Sara’s ready to be your geeky best friend that shows you how it’s done. I hope you enjoyed this conversation as much as I did. Admittedly, I know very little about SEO and I was so thrilled to be able to speak with Sarah and ask the questions that I've always had. And boy, does she deliver with great advice and action steps for us. It's the kind of episode where I hope you feel more excited about the knowledge rather than overwhelmed about this topic that often is so daunting. In this episode: SEO is essential for wedding planners and vendors to improve their online visibility and attract potential clients. Understanding what people are searching for and using their language in website content is crucial for effective SEO. Blogging, particularly venue spotlights, can significantly improve search engine rankings and showcase expertise. Consistency in blogging is not as important as the quality of the content. Having educational content, such as blog posts, on your website is valuable for attracting and converting potential clients. Ranking for specific keywords is not the only path to success in SEO. Ranking for venue names and advice articles can also drive website traffic. Creating a strategic list of blog post topics related to your location can showcase your expertise and attract potential clients. Not every planner needs to do SEO. It depends on your goals, growth plans, and target market. Expanding into new markets through SEO can be challenging, and it is important to have local connections and resources to establish authority. Optimizing the home page of your website with a specific keyword is crucial for SEO success. Not every page on your website needs to be SEO-optimized. Focus on strategic optimization rather than trying to optimize every page. When hiring a web designer for SEO services, ask specific questions about what they will do and manage your expectations. Check website statistics and use Google Search Console to evaluate the performance of blog posts and understand what keywords they are ranking for. Use code PLANNERLIFE20 for 20% OFF the Connect with Sara on Join Sara’s Free monthly SEO Lunch & Learn: /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/32421207

052: Jove Meyer 08/07/2024

052: Jove Meyer Embracing Inclusivity and Creativity with Jove Meyer This week’s guest is Jove Meyer, Jove Meyer, Owner and Creative Director of Jove Meyer Events. Jove is a prominent figure in the wedding planning industry, known for his vibrant and inclusive approach to events. Jove shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated wedding planner, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity, creativity, and authenticity in the wedding industry. Jove Meyer is a true visionary of joy for the spaces we call home and the ones that house life's biggest moments. He crafts a vivid colorful world inspired by his clients who dare to be different. Known for bold colors, patterns and unique designs, Jov's work in events and interiors has been featured in Vogue, Domino, the New York Times, the Magnolia Network and Rachel Ray Magazine. Harper's Bazaar, Brides and Over the Moon have named him one of the top wedding planners in the world. You may catch Jov on Good Morning America or recently the Today Show, as well as read his new column in The Knot Magazine. We didn't get a chance to talk about it, but Jove is also the host of a popular podcast, Weddings -ish with Jove. We dive into this more in the episode, but Jove has really set out to build a global design firm antithetical to his conservative and rigid upbringing by encouraging authenticity, celebrating diversity, and empowering marginalized communities. He is a fierce advocate and someone I really look up to. Jove shares about his ally pledge that he requires all creative partners to sign, vowing them to choose love over hate. In this Episode: Jove reflects on his early career and the influences that shaped his path. The challenges he faced and the perseverance required to establish his own business. How his passion and hustle kept his career growing and evolving. Memorable moments and milestones in his career, including working with high-profile clients. Jove discusses his approach to wedding planning, focusing on personalization and attention to detail. The significance of understanding and interpreting clients' visions to create unique and unforgettable events. Anecdotes from some of his most remarkable weddings, highlighting creativity and innovation. Jove shares the story behind his Ally Pledge and its evolution. The necessity of promoting inclusivity and diversity in the wedding industry. Real-life experiences that underscored the importance of standing up against discrimination and hate. The value of following one's passion and starting small. Encouragement to embrace creativity and take risks in design and planning. "If you have a calling, a passion, if there's a voice telling you to do something, you have to listen to it." - Jove Meyer Connect with Jove Meyer /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/32400542

051: Ashley & Renee of Baciare Events 07/24/2024

051: Ashley & Renee of Baciare Events In this episode, Heather is joined by Ashley Saffer and Renée Sabo, the founding partners and creative directors of Baciare Events. Baciare Events, (pronounced Buh-CHAR-Eh), is a premier planning and design firm dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences. Through strategic planning, renowned creative designs, and concierge style service, Ashley and Renee are based in New England and always passport ready. Their experience with sought after destinations and connections to talented vendors around the world allowed them to take their clients on an unforgettable planning journey and produce one of a kind milestone celebrations and events. Renée is a true Leo, outgoing, charming and extroverted! She has a creative eye, has a welcoming persona and loves connecting people through networking. Ashley has a cheeky sense of humor, is a logistics queen and she is one of the most positive people you'll meet. She truly goes above and beyond for clients and no detail is ever overlooked. I love getting the opportunity to meet new planners and share unique stories. I think more often than not, we hear about business partners splitting up or moving on. But in this story, we learn that Ashley and Renee each had their own planning companies for years. Then they decided to start a new company together. I love how candid this conversation is about their journey and their partnership. In this episode, we talk about how a wedding planner inspired Renée's story when she was just 15. How hospitality and entrepreneurship was something that was modeled for Ashley and led to her desire to dream big. Renée and Ashley share about their goals for the future, advice for those needing a change. As well as advice for those really struggling with work-life balance. One of my favorite things we discuss is how important it is to really love weddings and to continue to evolve your career as your life and the world continue to change. In this episode we talk about: Ashley and Renee's journey from individual wedding planning businesses to forming a partnership. Initial connection through mutual friends and shared experiences in the industry. Decision-making process for merging their businesses, including alignment on values and vision. Shared responsibilities and strengths, balancing each other's skills. The importance of maintaining quality of life and work-life balance. Emphasis on communication and learning from other planners. Adjustments in the sales process, including shared sales calls and setting client expectations. Importance of creating a structured and consistent experience for clients. Managing work-life balance while providing high-quality service. Vision for Baciare Events, including expanding to larger events and corporate projects. Emphasis on creating immersive and unique guest experiences. Goals for becoming a well-known boutique event planning firm. Encouragement to take risks and learn from experiences. Importance of setting boundaries with clients to prevent burnout. The value of continuous growth and adapting to industry changes. Connect with Ashley & Renee of Baciare Events | And be sure to check out Renne on . Interested in Monday.com? /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/32215412

050: Details Darling 07/24/2024

050: Details Darling Today’s guests are the sister duo from Details Darling. A full circle moment for all three planners as Aubrey and Kenzie came to Planner Life Academy early on in their career and it’s been so fun to watch them grow. Aubrey and Mackenzie founded Details Darling, a Southern California and Arizona based boutique full service wedding planning and design company. They emphasize the importance of design details that bring out their couples personalities and tell their love stories through one of a kind events. Details Darling’s work has been featured in People Magazine, Martha Stewart, The Knot, Brides and more. Listen in as they candidly discuss their early inspirations, the struggles of starting a business, the importance of mentorship, and how their family plays a crucial role in their company. Mackenzie and Aubrey also talk about their experiences growing a team, the challenges they face in the current market, and their strategies for sustaining and growing their business. In this episode, we talk about: Early inspirations and the importance of family in their business. How generosity from a mentor and key opportunities shaped their early experience. The AHA moment at a wedding where they realized their love for weddings. What it’s like to own a company, plan and design together. Realizing each other’s strengths, establishing roles and responsibilities. The journey of building a successful wedding planning business requires passion, persistence, and a supportive network. How building a team impacted their growth and the struggles with that growth. Mentorship and community are invaluable resources for growth and learning in the industry. Continuous learning and adapting to market changes are crucial for sustained success. The importance of social media presence and industry networking. The significance of having a supportive and competent team. Connect with Details Darling | This episode is supported by Planner Life Academy. In case you didn't know, we created Planner Life Academy for planners to have the education, tools and resources we wish we had. For me, I love sharing all the tips, tools and insight into all the little ways you can provide an amazing experience for your couples, their family and friends. I think one of the best places to really make sure you are making a great first impression is at the rehearsal. For so many planners, the ceremony rehearsal is something that is stressful and annoying, but I love it! And I think with the right script you will enjoy it too. So I created a free rehearsal audio recording where I walk you through exactly how I run a ceremony rehearsal. So you can have my tried and true process to create your own rehearsal script allowing you to start every wedding with confidence and making a great impression. Get the rehearsal recording today : /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/32063687

049: Jaime Kostechko of Wild Heart Events 07/17/2024

049: Jaime Kostechko of Wild Heart Events Today's guest is Jaime Kostechko of Wild Heart Events. Known for her fun and creative designs, Jamie and the Wild Heart Events team are based in Santa Barbara, California and produce weddings locally and worldwide. Jaime loves globally influenced designs inspired by rustic fincas, australian architecture, moroccan textiles, jungalow living, bohemian chic and urban punk. Jaime has her Bachelors degree from UCSB in Sociology, forging her path handling events and décor within the hospitality and wedding industries since 2008. Growing up immersed in interior design and with a background in restaurant management, Jaime layers color, pattern and texture with experiential moments to create unforgettable celebrations full of trend-setting details. She is one of the leading modern event designers with features in People magazine, Vogue, Domino, Martha Stewart, Brides, Green Wedding Shoes and more. Wild Heart Events has been named a top planner and designer by Brides, Over the Moon, The Wed, Wed Vibes, California Wedding Day and more. Beyond her work, Jaime believes in living a life based around kindness, authenticity and inclusivity. Jaime loves hosting in her own home alongside her fire captain husband, two sons, and frenchie. In this Episode, we discuss: Evolution of Jamie's team structure over the years. The importance of clear roles within the business. Transition from high volume to high-end destination weddings, managing 22 weddings a year. Jamie's background in the restaurant industry. Transitioning to wedding planning inspired by her love for hospitality and design, and her mother's influence as an interior designer. Balancing motherhood and a growing business. Jamie's approach to incorporating calculated risks and memorable moments in her designs. Transition to destination weddings as Jamie's children grew older. Challenges in finding genuine connections and support among wedding planners. Importance of taking opportunities as they come and building a strong portfolio. Leveraging styled shoots and creative events to showcase design capabilities. Focusing on local events initially and expanding as the business grows. How destination events are much different than your local events. How the wedding publication landscape has definitely evolved over the past 12 years or so. Connect with Jaime | /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/32026732

048: Brandon Kidd 07/03/2024

048: Brandon Kidd Today's guest is a dear friend, longtime supporter of Planner Life Academy, and my wedding photographer, the one and only Brandon Kidd. Brandon is a destination wedding photographer, co -founder of Chasing Stone, and a business coach to creative entrepreneurs. He has been named among the top photographers in the world, serving the wedding industry for over 20 years. Brandon has photographed over 600 weddings throughout 65 countries, and he brings a wide array of professional and personal experiences to each and every wedding he serves. As we share in this episode, we met very early on in both of our careers and have had the good fortune of working together more times than I can count. In this episode, we talk about his early love for capturing moments and family trips, how he got into catering and that exposed him to the world of weddings, how his desire to connect with people led him to take it full time, and how he lucked out and has the very best business partner, second tutor, and wife, Kristin. In this episode we also talk about: Building Vendor Relationships Understanding Vendor Relationships How various vendors, not just venues, can be valuable referral sources. Authentic Connections Strategic Diversification Personal Fulfillment and Giving Back Value of Having a Coach Every high performer has a coach to provide guidance and accountability. The difference between informal advice from friends and structured coaching. Tips on selecting a coach who understands your industry and personal goals. The importance of having someone who can challenge and push you forward. Advice for Business Longevity Importance of being kind to yourself and learning from mistakes. Adapting to Industry Changes Connect with Brandon Kidd Photography | Connect with Brandon Kidd Coaching | Connect with Chasing Stone | This episode is supported by Planner Life Academy. In case you didn't know, we created Planner Life Academy for planners to have the education, tools and resources we wish we had. For me, I love sharing all the tips, tools and insight into all the little ways you can provide an amazing experience for your couples, their family and friends. I think one of the best places to really make sure you are making a great first impression is at the rehearsal. For so many planners, the ceremony rehearsal is something that is stressfull and annoying, but I love it! And I think with the right script you will enjoy it too. So I created a free rehearsal audio recording where I walk you through exactly how I run a ceremony rehearsal. So you can have my tried and true process to create your own rehearsal script allowing you to start every wedding with confidence and making a great impression. Get the rehearsal recording today : /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/31896447

047: Ann Koppuzha of Powerhouse Legal 06/26/2024

047: Ann Koppuzha of Powerhouse Legal Today's guest is Ann Koppuzha of Powerhouse Legal. With a decade of legal experience at top law firms and the Department of Justice, Ann is dedicated to ensuring your contracts are top notch and echo your unique story so you can book clients faster. Legal questions are always something I get from planners in all phases of their business. So I'm so excited to have had the opportunity to ask some of your most pressing questions. In this episode, we talk about client contracts, how to best protect your business. We talk about reviewing venue and vendor contracts, as well as the common mistakes we see. Anytime we're talking with an attorney, we have to keep it a little bit broad. So we got to cover so much in this episode. We discuss: Initial Setup and Importance of Contracts Communication Expectations Client Contract Negotiations Vendor Contracts Employee and Contractor Agreements Using AI Tools for Business Holistic Approach to Business Success Advice for New Planners Importance of having well-drafted contracts Connect with Ann | Use code WEDDINGPRO10 for 10% off contract templates. Today's episode is brought to you by the Planner Life Academy online course. What is the most important thing to do when you want to become a successful wedding planner? Whether you're just starting out or you're ready to level up, these questions constantly creep in. How can I charge more? How do I book more clients? How can I do this better? This must not be this hard. Everybody else seems to be doing better than me. I've been there. And I've learned so many things the hard way so that you don't have to. The thing is, the path to overcoming doubt is different for everyone, and you can't Google your way to success. I have done over 900 weddings and events, and I've learned so many ways to improve my customer experience, organization, design skills, and wedding day process. And after years of hosting in -person workshops for planners, we created an online course so planners can learn what they need to succeed from the comfort of their own home. If you want to do this, you can, and we're here to show you how. And this just isn't any wedding planner certification. It's everything I have learned over the last 20 years poured into an easy to learn online course that will teach you how to start your business, implement processes. How to create templates, how to guide your clients through each and every step of planning, how to be a great leader, and more importantly, how to build a great reputation so that you can build a sustainable wedding business. The Planner Life Academy online course is 45 topics, over 16 hours of video lessons, and all of our templates to help you make immediate upgrades to your business. Friend, please stop doubting that you have what it takes to succeed. Get everything you need to build your career as a professional wedding planner. Visit to start today. /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/31809242

046: Lesley Brickman of The One Gown 06/19/2024

046: Lesley Brickman of The One Gown Today's guest is Lesley Brickman of The One Gown based in Southern California. Lesley is a luxury bridal stylist who is committed to helping her clients look and feel their best for life's most special moments. She works with clients across the globe to define, refine, and execute their vision for their day. Lesley's mission is to educate, empower, and serve her clients, always leading with joy. And an absolute joy she is to work with and have on your team. I have now worked with Lesley on two weddings and had very different clients, but in both cases, I can't imagine the day being such a success without her. In this episode, we talk about her passion for pretty dresses and how her previous careers led her to really build the stepping stones to circle back to what she was most passionate about, and that's wedding styling. We also talk about: What is Wedding Styling? How to begin the styling process Veil selection and its impact Accessory selection philosophy Hair and make up collaboration Wedding Day Concierge services Overview of wedding day concierge/dresser roles Differentiating from other day-of services Partnering with wedding planners Services for bridesmaids and groomsmen Tips for planners seeking stylists and concierges Working remotely and traveling for services Impact of styling on press and features Connect with Lesley | ___________________________ This episode is supported by Planner Life Academy. In case you didn't know, we created Planner Life Academy for planners to have the education, tools and resources we wish we had. For me, I love sharing all the tips, tools and insight into all the little ways you can provide an amazing experience for your couples, their family and friends. I think one of the best places to really make sure you are making a great first impression is at the rehearsal. For so many planners, the ceremony rehearsal is something that is stressfull and annoying, but I love it! And I think with the right script you will enjoy it too. So I created a free rehearsal audio recording where I walk you through exactly how I run a ceremony rehearsal. So you can have my tried and true process to create your own rehearsal script allowing you to start every wedding with confidence and making a great impression. Get the rehearsal recording HERE and master your rehearsal process today. Connect with Heather | /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/31770517

045: Alexa Kritis Events 06/12/2024

045: Alexa Kritis Events Today's guest is Alexa Kritis, owner of Alexa Kritis Events in Tampa, Florida. Born and raised in New York, Alexa found her passion for weddings at a very early age, already working in the wedding industry in high school. After earning her degree in management and event planning from Lim College in New York City, she accepted a position as a wedding coordinator at a luxury hotel which required that she make the big and exciting move from the Big Apple to the Sunshine State. With vast experience gained from being on the venue and catering side of events, she felt confident she could plan and design events on her own. So Alexa Kritis Events was born. Early on in her business, Alexa dove into education and in learning everything she could. We met when she attended Planner Life Academy back in 2014. She joined us again a couple years later. Alexa has always been a great part of the Planner Life community and an incredible supporter of Academy. So fun to have her on the podcast today. Something unique and definitely something we dive into in this episode is how Alexa created a freelancing brand to support large scale weddings and luxury wedding planners around the world. It was through that experience she gained the insight, expertise, and importantly, the confidence to continue to build her own business. Alexa Kritis Events has been featured in Brides, Modern Luxury Weddings, 100 Layer Cake, Carats & Cake, and more. In this episode we talk about: - Discussing the journey and hustle in the wedding planning industry - Alexa’s Freelancing Experiences - The Importance of Hustle and Hard Work - Importance of continuous effort and visibility - Networking and proactive outreach as crucial elements - Leveraging successful collaborations for credibility - Overcoming skepticism and proving credibility through quality work - Learning and Growing Through Freelancing - Working with different teams and adapting to new environments - Combining freelancing experience with personal business growth - Importance of charging appropriately for services - Ensuring comprehensive staffing to maintain event quality - Collaboration and Support in the Industry - Building a strong network for event support - Planning financially for additional staffing needs - Educational and Networking Events - Importance of setting goals for attending events like Engage - Importance of kindness and respect in professional relationships - Learning from various stages of business growth - Using events for networking and building trust - Importance of strategic planning and continuous effort Tune in to hear Alexa Kritis share her journey from New York to Florida, her insights into the wedding planning industry, and practical advice for aspiring event planners. Connect with Alexa | This episode is supported by Planner Life Academy. In case you didn't know, we created Planner Life Academy for planners to have the education, tools, and resources we wish that we had when we got started. For me, I love sharing all the tips, tools, and insight into all the little ways you can provide an amazing experience for your couple, their family, and friends. I think one of the best places to really make sure you're making a great first impression is at the rehearsal. For so many planners, the ceremony rehearsal is something that is stressful and annoying, but I love it. And I think with the right script, you'll enjoy it too. So I created a free rehearsal audio recording where I walk you through exactly how I run a ceremony rehearsal. So you can have my tried and true process to create your own rehearsal script, allowing you to start every wedding with confidence and making a great impression. /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/31707267

044: Holding It In 06/06/2024

043: Kelsey Rae Designs 05/29/2024

043: Kelsey Rae Designs Today's guest is Kelsey Rae Angelotti, owner and creative director at Kelsey Ray Designs. Kelsey got her degree in business from Vanguard University and landed her first job out of college at Ponte Winery in Temecula, California. After a move to Greenwich, Connecticut, it was there that she got a job doing social media for a luxury hotel group in South America and Italy. And she was encouraged to launch her own company, Kelsey Ray Designs, on the side. Over the years, she's built a large team and then scaled it back to focus on more full -service planning and design. Kelsey moved across the country from Southern California to Nashville, Tennessee, where she grew her business there and into other destinations. Kelsey Ray Designs has been published over 50 times in some of the largest publications, including People Magazine, Brides, Huffington Post, Style Me Pretty, Green Wedding Shoes, 100 Layer Cake, Wedding Chicks, and more. In this episode, we talk about: Her early start in hospitality at a winery wedding venue How doing so many weddings early on gave her a strong foundation How industry pressure led her to building a team Building Credibility through Relationships and Styled Shoots Scaling a Wedding Planning Business: Challenges and Successes Navigating the Pandemic: Rescheduling and Financial Challenges Moving from California to Nashville Challenges of Managing a Team from Afar Breaking into the Luxury Wedding Market in Nashville Attracting High-Profile Clients Expanding into Destination Weddings Staffing for Destination Weddings Building Relationships and Landing High-Profile Clients Setting Goals for the Future You can connect with Kelsey Rae Designs | This episode is supported by ENJI, the easy to use marketing software that helps you create a marketing plan for your business in minutes and empowers you to start making actual progress with the tools you need. I get it, you're a wedding planner, not a marketing expert. Marketing is my least favorite part of being a business owner and all too often it's something I push to the bottom of my to -do list. Luckily, the queen of wedding industry marketing and a long time friend of planner life, created a marketing software specifically for small business owners so we can easily do our own marketing. ENJI handles the hard stuff, like creating a marketing strategy so you know what you need to do. It also helps you actually stay consistent with creating content. One of my favorite things about ENJI's platform is that it also includes an AI copywriter to help ensure my messaging fits my brand and reaches my ideal audience. But my favorite new feature is the social media scheduler that makes it so much faster to create my content and get it scheduled so I don't have to think about it every single day. The best news? ENJI is celebrating their first birthday the entire month of May. Right now, you can get ENJI for only $19 a month for your first year. But don't wait. This offer ends on May 31st. /episode/index/show/plannerlifepodcast/id/31463537

Planner Life Podcast | A Podcast For Wedding Planners

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