The Venue Podcast
Welcome to The Venue Podcast, the essential twice-weekly audio experience airing every Monday and Wednesday, meticulously tailored for current and aspiring wedding venue owners. Hosted by Lindsay Lucas and Kinsey Roberts, seasoned experts in the wedding industry, this podcast serves as your personal workshop, guiding you through the multifaceted world of venue ownership. With Lindsay and Kinsey at the helm, each episode unfolds as an educational journey, delving into critical topics that resonate with venue owners, from mastering operations and innovating in marketing to refining tour strategies and enhancing client experiences. At the heart of The Venue Podcast is the commitment to transforming you from just an operator to the CEO of your venue. Lindsay and Kinsey's warm, friendly, and approachable demeanor ensures that each discussion is insightful and easily digestible. They steer clear of jargon, preferring to deliver content in a straightforward and relatable way. Whether you're taking the first steps in establishing your venue or looking to elevate your existing wedding venue business, this podcast is your go-to resource for practical advice, industry insights, and real-world strategies. Tune in to The Venue Podcast and embark on a journey to redefine and excel in owning and operating a successful wedding venue. Connect with The Venue Podcast: Instagram: @yourvenueexperts Website: www.yourvenueexperts.com Powered By The MediaWed Network
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AI Search Visibility for Venues [Part One]
08/04/2025
AI Search Visibility for Venues [Part One]
Search is changing—and fast. With AI-generated answers now appearing at the top of platforms like Google and Bing, venue owners need to start thinking beyond traditional SEO. In this episode of The Venue Podcast, Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas dig into AI search visibility and what it means for wedding venues moving forward. You’ll learn what AI search actually is, how it’s different from standard search results, and—most importantly—how to position your venue to stay visible and competitive in a changing digital landscape. We cover: 🤖 What AI search results are and how they’re generated 📉 Why relying on your website alone may hurt your visibility 📈 Easy ways to boost your venue’s relevance in AI-driven searches 🧠 Content strategies that work with both algorithms and couples ⚠️ What venue owners should do now to future-proof their online presence If you're wondering how your venue can stay ahead of the curve and keep showing up when couples are planning online, this episode is your roadmap. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay: Kinsey's email: Lindsay's email:
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How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile
07/28/2025
How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Episode Summary: Your Google Business Profile might be one of the most overlooked tools in your venue’s marketing strategy—but it shouldn’t be. In this episode of The Venue Podcast, Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas break down how wedding venue owners can fully optimize their Google Business Profile to improve visibility, build trust with potential clients, and drive more qualified inquiries. Whether you're just claiming your profile or looking to take it from “meh” to magnetic, this episode walks you through practical steps that will make your venue easier to find and more enticing to book. What we cover: ✅ The importance of your Google Business Profile in local search 📸 What photos to post (and how often!) 📝 Must-fill fields that help you show up in search ⭐️ How to collect and leverage reviews 📍Common mistakes venue owners make (and how to fix them) If you're relying solely on social media or your website to get found, you're missing a huge opportunity. This episode will help you make your venue stand out where it matters most. Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay: Kinsey's email: Lindsay's email:
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The Tech Stack That Runs My Venue Business (For Under $400/Month)
07/23/2025
The Tech Stack That Runs My Venue Business (For Under $400/Month)
The detailed breakdown of Kinsey's Tech Stack to run her wedding venue, Vista View Events for less than $400/month. Here's the List: Creative & Design Tools Canva Pro - $20/month All social media content (Instagram carousels, Facebook posts, Reels covers) Photo editing and headshot retouching PDF guides and digital products Physical printed materials (thank you cards, planners, branded envelopes) Client Management System Dubsado - $20/month Central CRM for all client relationships Contract and agreement storage Client portal functionality Custom lists and client-specific resources Inquiry form creation and website embedding AI-Powered Productivity Suite Three AI Tools - $56.66/month total ChatGPT Pro ($20/month): Primary AI assistant Claude ($20/month): Alternative AI perspective Perplexity ($16.66/month, paid annually): Research and fact-checking Business Communications OpenPhone - $64/month Professional business phone line on personal device Business hours automation Custom voicemail messages Text messaging capabilities Multiple number and user management Alternative mentioned: Grasshopper as backup option Financial Management QuickBooks - $35/month Essential bookkeeping software Tax preparation streamlining Monthly reconciliation capabilities Key advice: Start early, even with minimal revenue Website & Online Presence Squarespace - $22.33/month (annual billing) Website hosting and management E-commerce capabilities for future products Built-in email system (though not used) Integration with other tools Email Marketing & Client Communication FloDesk - $64/month Beautiful, customized client emails Automated check-in sequences Annual "wedding year" celebration emails New client follow-up automation Integration with lead capture system Automation & Integration Zapier - $29/month Connects Dubsado inquiry forms to FloDesk sequences Automated workflow triggers Eliminates manual data entry Set-and-forget functionality Professional Email & Productivity Google Workspace - $25.50/month Professional email addresses (@vistaviewevents.com) Gmail interface with business features User management capabilities Multiple inbox organization Scheduling & Appointments Acuity Scheduling - FREE Automated booking system Tour and consultation scheduling Final walkthrough coordination Phone call appointments Cost-saving tip: Included with Squarespace subscription Key Takeaway: Budget-Friendly Total investment under $400/month for a established venue Strategic tool selection based on actual usage Annual payment discounts when available Tool Selection Philosophy: "The tool that works is the one you actually use" 1. Regular business audits to eliminate unused subscriptions 2. Focus on integration and automation over individual features Growth Considerations: Tech stack has evolved over 9 years of business Started with much lower monthly investment Each tool serves multiple purposes to maximize value
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Should You Put Your Pricing on Your Venue's Website?
07/21/2025
Should You Put Your Pricing on Your Venue's Website?
In this short and sweet episode, Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas tackle one of the most frequently asked questions from venue owners: “Should I put my pricing on my website?” We get straight to the point and unpack the pros, cons, and strategic considerations that come with displaying (or not displaying) your pricing online. Whether you're a brand new venue navigating your first inquiries or a seasoned pro refining your booking process, this quick listen will help you make an informed and confident decision. In this episode, we cover: Why there's no one-size-fits-all answer How your pricing strategy impacts your lead quality Ways to display pricing (without scaring people off) The hidden power of transparency in today’s market Tune in for a fresh perspective and a few practical tips that will save you time, headaches, and maybe even a few awkward inquiry emails. Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay: Kinsey's email: Lindsay's email:
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Before You Break Ground: The 7 Mistakes First-Time Venue Owners Make
07/14/2025
Before You Break Ground: The 7 Mistakes First-Time Venue Owners Make
Every week, another beautiful venue closes its doors within the first few years. The reason? It's the costly mistakes made before ever welcoming the first guest. In this episode, Lindsay pulls back the curtain on the 7 most expensive missteps first-time venue owners make and provide actionable strategies to avoid them. Whether you're in the dreaming phase, applying for funding, ready to sign a lease or even a seasoned venue owner, this episode will save you time, money, and heartache by learning from others' expensive lessons. Key Takeaways 🎯 Market research isn't optional 💰 The MVP approach saves money 📊 Know your real numbers 🏢 Location is more than rent ⚙️ Systems prevent disasters 📱 Marketing starts before opening 🧠 Mindset matters Links + Resources mentioned in the episode: Kinsey and Lindsay both offer custom market analysis for 1:1 clients. Email Kinsey at or email Lindsay at
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Dream Big, Start SMART: Building Your Wedding Venue in Phases
06/23/2025
Dream Big, Start SMART: Building Your Wedding Venue in Phases
Feeling like your dream of owning a wedding venue is slipping away? Take a breath — and don’t give up. In this solo episode, Lindsay Lucas, wedding venue consultant, shares a powerful mindset shift that could change everything: You don’t have to build the dream all at once. You just have to start smart. If traditional funding options said "no," it might be time to go back to the drawing board and explore building your venue in phases — a strategic, sustainable approach that reduces financial risk, opens more funding doors, and even comes with added benefits like spreading out tax liabilities over several years. You’ll learn: Why “no” from a bank isn’t the end — it’s feedback for your plan How breaking your project into 2–3 realistic phases can get you to the finish line faster The long-term financial and operational upsides of a phased approach How to regroup, rethink, and relaunch your venue dream without losing momentum Whether you’re in the early dreaming stage or facing obstacles mid-build, this episode will help you realign with your vision and move forward — wisely. Connect with Kinsey & Lindsay:
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How to Get More Wedding Venue Leads: 3 Strategies That Actually Work
06/18/2025
How to Get More Wedding Venue Leads: 3 Strategies That Actually Work
"Bookings are down for this year" - sound familiar? If you've been watching your lead pipeline slow to a trickle while refreshing your inbox hoping for inquiries, this episode is your lifeline. Kinsey and Lindsay are pulling back the curtain on three strategies that are actually working to generate wedding venue leads right now (not the same tired advice you've heard a million times). Grab your notebook (seriously, you'll want to take notes!) as Kinsey breaks down: 📱 Strategy #1: Leverage Social Media Consistently Learn the exact content formula that moves couples through their buyer's journey - 40% awareness content, 40% consideration content, and 20% decision content. Plus, discover how to use automation tools like ManyChat to be the fastest responder in your couples' DMs. 🤖 Strategy #2: Optimize for AI Search & SEO Visibility Traditional SEO is evolving rapidly. Find out how to position your venue for AI search tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Google's Gemini. We'll share specific tactics for creating AI-friendly content that gets your venue found. 🤝 Strategy #3: Network & Collaborate Strategically Move beyond random networking events. Learn how to deepen relationships with your vendor partners, host meaningful gatherings at your venue, and become the go-to connector in your market. Whether you're an aspiring venue owner or a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, this episode delivers actionable strategies you can implement today. Resources mentioned: ManyChat (for social media automation) Claude by Anthropic ChatGPT Perplexity Google's Gemini AI Got questions or want to share your success? Find us on Instagram or email us at shecreatesbusinesspodcast.com P.S. Would you attend a venue owners conference in Colorado? Let us know - we might just be planning something special! 👀
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Risk, Liability, and LLCs: Structuring Your Wedding Venue with Onsite Accommodations
06/16/2025
Risk, Liability, and LLCs: Structuring Your Wedding Venue with Onsite Accommodations
In this episode Lindsay answers a listener's question, "Should my wedding venue accommodations be in a separate LLC?" If you're running (or planning) a venue with onsite lodging, this episode is a MUST-LISTEN 🎧 Lindsay breaks down exactly why smart venue owners separate their accommodations into their own LLC: Liability protection (because wedding drama ≠ lodging issues) Different insurance needs = different coverage Cleaner financials = better business decisions Exit strategy flexibility (sell one, keep the other!) This listener question came at the perfect time - so many of you are adding accommodations or considering it. Don't make the mistake of lumping everything together! Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay
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Quick Fire Episode: Tips for Selling Your Wedding Venue
06/11/2025
Quick Fire Episode: Tips for Selling Your Wedding Venue
In this episode, Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas break down the key steps for wedding venue owners considering selling their business. With an increase in inquiries about buying and selling venues, they share practical advice based on real experience. Key Takeaways: Get your financials organized first - Buyers want to see actual profit, not just potential. Have your gross and net revenue clearly documented and ready for scrutiny. Prepare for thorough due diligence - Serious buyers will conduct what feels like a "financial cavity search." Be organized with all paperwork, documentation, and proof of income. Decide your selling strategy early - Determine if you're selling just the business, just the real estate, or both together. This affects your entire approach and gives you flexibility later. Get a professional business valuation - Hire a third-party evaluator with venue or hospitality experience, or start with DIY options like bizequity.com to reduce attorney hours. Ensure legal compliance - Review all licenses, permits, zoning requirements, and existing contracts with vendors and employees before listing. Manage your expectations - Buyers purchase based on current profit, not future potential. If they're buying for potential, expect a lower price since they'll be doing the work to realize that potential. Consider your personal brand - If you've built the venue around founder content and personal branding, start shifting to venue-focused content well before selling, as buyers see no equity in your personal brand. Prepare emotionally - Selling is an emotional journey for both parties. Don't take buyer questions personally - they're seeking facts, not criticizing your management. Use NDAs properly - Any serious buyer should be willing to sign a non-disclosure agreement. If they won't, they're not serious.
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Stop Losing Bookings: What Actually Happens During Venue Tours (Part Two)
06/09/2025
Stop Losing Bookings: What Actually Happens During Venue Tours (Part Two)
THIS IS PART TWO OF OUR TWO-PART PODCASTS ALL ABOUT ANSWERING THE QUESTION: How do you make your wedding venue stand out during tours? Are your venue tours not converting the way you'd hoped? You're not alone. Most venue owners focus solely on aesthetics during tours, but the venues consistently booking at premium rates understand something crucial: the tour experience is fundamentally a neurological journey. In this episode, Kinsey and Lindsay break down the three neural systems that factor into venue decision-making and reveal why couples actually make their venue choice within the first 90 seconds of experiencing your space. You'll discover how to create a multi-sensory experience that hits all five senses, learn to identify and eliminate "sensory dead zones" in your tour route, and understand how to create emotional anchors that help couples visualize their future wedding at your venue. We're also sharing practical strategies for reducing decision fatigue, specific examples of how to incorporate scent and sound into your tours, and actionable steps you can implement immediately to improve your conversion rates. This isn't about spending thousands on renovations - it's about working strategically with what you already have to create an unforgettable experience that moves couples from "maybe" to "yes."
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Stop Losing Bookings: What Actually Happens During Venue Tours (Part One)
06/04/2025
Stop Losing Bookings: What Actually Happens During Venue Tours (Part One)
Are your venue tours not converting the way you'd hoped? You're not alone. Most venue owners focus solely on aesthetics during tours, but the venues consistently booking at premium rates understand something crucial: the tour experience is fundamentally a neurological journey. In this episode, Kinsey and Lindsay break down the three neural systems that factor into venue decision-making and reveal why couples actually make their venue choice within the first 90 seconds of experiencing your space. You'll discover how to create a multi-sensory experience that hits all five senses, learn to identify and eliminate "sensory dead zones" in your tour route, and understand how to create emotional anchors that help couples visualize their future wedding at your venue. We're also sharing practical strategies for reducing decision fatigue, specific examples of how to incorporate scent and sound into your tours, and actionable steps you can implement immediately to improve your conversion rates. This isn't about spending thousands on renovations - it's about working strategically with what you already have to create an unforgettable experience that moves couples from "maybe" to "yes." Shop Venue Owner's Favorite Resources: Email Kinsey and Lindsay:
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How to Create Viral Marketing? This Article from Harvard Business Review Might Help
06/02/2025
How to Create Viral Marketing? This Article from Harvard Business Review Might Help
In this episode, Kinsey dives into a fascinating Harvard Business Review article that reveals why only 5% of social media content goes viral—and how you can strategically increase your odds. Discover the powerful SPREAD framework that breaks down viral content into six key dimensions: Socially useful, Provocative, Replicable, Emotional, Ambiguous, and Distributive. From Duolingo's viral owl to Taylor Swift's cryptic album drops, learn how major brands engineer shareability into their campaigns. But going viral isn't just about creating buzz—Kinsey explores the critical backend systems you need in place to handle sudden traffic spikes and avoid the pitfalls that can crush unprepared businesses. Plus, she tackles the honest question every business owner wonders: Should going viral actually be your goal? This episode is for venue owners looking to create content that truly connects and spreads to the right audience. Resources mentioned: Jay Baer's "Youtility" Book Marcus Sheridan's "They Ask You Answer" Book What's your take on going viral?
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Part Two: Venue Survival Strategy for Tough Economic Times
05/28/2025
Part Two: Venue Survival Strategy for Tough Economic Times
In part two of our venue survival strategies series, we're diving deep into what actually works when bookings are down and cash flow is tight. We cover diversification strategies beyond just "host more events" (including why Kinsey might be too precious about being wedding-day-only events), smart debt management tips, and the real talk about where to spend vs. save your marketing dollars right now. Lindsay shares client success stories about adjusting payment structures to increase bookings, while Kinsey gets honest about her own struggles with leadership mindset during tough times. We also tackle the psychology of team management, including how Donald Miller saved his company by being transparent with his team (spoiler: they helped save the business). Key takeaways: Why cutting your marketing budget is the worst thing you can do The 3-6-12 month projection strategy you need to implement NOW How to leverage your property assets you didn't know you had When to hire financial help vs. DIY (hint: stop white-knuckling your cash) Links: .
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Beyond Price Checking: The Wedding Venue Owner's Guide to Competitive Domination
05/21/2025
Beyond Price Checking: The Wedding Venue Owner's Guide to Competitive Domination
In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on one of the most powerful (yet overlooked) tools in your venue business arsenal. As both a venue owner and marketing coach, I've seen firsthand how proper market analysis can transform a struggling venue into a confident, thriving business. You'll discover: Why checking competitor prices once a year isn't nearly enough (and what you're missing when you do) The exact step-by-step process I use to analyze my venue's market position How to translate market insights into revenue-generating action steps The surprising competitive advantages most venues completely overlook Real examples of how small adjustments based on market analysis led to significant booking increases Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate an established venue, this episode will give you the tools to position your business more strategically, price more confidently, and get out of the "reactive venue owner" trap. Ready to become the venue that others are scrambling to compete with? Let's dive in. Connect with Kinsey:
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Part One: Venue Survival Strategy for Tough Economic Times
05/19/2025
Part One: Venue Survival Strategy for Tough Economic Times
In this episode of The Venue Podcast, we tackle the critical topic of venue survival during challenging economic periods. Drawing from extensive industry research and our own experiences as a venue owner and venue consultant, we offer a roadmap for navigating slower booking seasons—whether you're experiencing a true economic downturn or just a temporary lull. We dive into interesting market shifts affecting the wedding industry, including: - Why 85% of couples are making decisions based on economic pressures - The surprising continued rise of micro-weddings since 2020 - Changing social norms around smaller, more personalized celebrations - How Gen Z and Millennial couples are reshaping wedding expectations This episode provides practical strategies for venue owners to stay competitive, including creating smart tiered pricing packages that maintain profit margins while appearing more affordable to budget-conscious couples. We share candid insights about our own business pivots and the importance of differentiating your venue beyond just day-of-week pricing. Whether you're struggling with bookings or simply want to future-proof your venue business, this episode offers valuable insights on adapting to current market realities without compromising profitability. And don't miss part two (coming 5/26/25), where we'll explore diversification strategies, alternative revenue streams, and psychological approaches to team management during slower periods. Connect with Lindsay and Kinsey:
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Funding from the Ground Up: DSCR Loans, SBA Curveballs & Tools for New Venue Owners
05/14/2025
Funding from the Ground Up: DSCR Loans, SBA Curveballs & Tools for New Venue Owners
Dreaming of building your wedding venue from the ground up? In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly what new venue owners need to know about funding in today’s market — including the latest curveballs from the SBA, how DSCR loans work, and my go-to digital tools to prep your funding package. If you're serious about starting your venue the right way, this is a must-listen! Mentioned in this episode: Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay
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Top Business Influences: Who Lindsay is learning from
05/12/2025
Top Business Influences: Who Lindsay is learning from
Ever wondered who’s behind the scenes shaping our journey and pushing us to grow? In this episode, Lindsay is pulling back the curtain and sharing the mentors, teachers, and thought leaders who have influenced her most in the last year—both personally and professionally. From industry experts to unexpected sources of wisdom, you’ll hear who she’s learning from right now and how their insights are helping her evolve. Whether you're looking for guidance or just curious about where she gets her inspiration, this episode might just introduce you to your next favorite mentor. Mentioned in this episode: Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay
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Venue Acquisition 101: Essential First Steps for Buying an Existing Venue
05/07/2025
Venue Acquisition 101: Essential First Steps for Buying an Existing Venue
Show Notes In this informative episode, Lindsay shares what she would tell her best friend if she were navigating a first time purchase of an existing wedding venue. Lindsay gives you invaluable insights on where to find these listings, proper etiquette, and the best first steps to take once you've found a business of interest. This episide will help you approach venue acquisition with confidence and clarity to get your journey started. Resources Mentioned Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay
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Top Business Influences: Kinsey's Current List of Mentors
05/05/2025
Top Business Influences: Kinsey's Current List of Mentors
Show Notes: Join us as Kinsey pulls back the curtain on her personal business education journey! In this value-packed episode, discover the diverse sources shaping Kinsey's business strategy—from luxury fashion houses and high-end brands to Target's innovative designers and today's most influential marketing experts. Learn how these cross-industry insights can transform your business approach, marketing strategy, and brand positioning. Whether you're a small business owner, entrepreneur, or marketing professional, you'll walk away with actionable lessons from some of the most successful brands and marketers in the world. Tune in to expand your business perspective and unlock new growth opportunities by learning from unexpected mentors across the business landscape. Mentioned in this episode: - Endless Customers - latest book Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay
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Client Gifting Strategy & Ideas for Wedding Venues
04/03/2024
Client Gifting Strategy & Ideas for Wedding Venues
In the latest episode of The Venue Podcast, we dive into the topic of client gifting strategies for venue owners, emphasizing the balance between thoughtfulness and budget. Our hope in today’s episode is to inspire venue owners to implement or refine their gifting strategies, ensuring you make a lasting impression on your clients. Here's a closer look at the insights and tips shared: Client Gifting as a Dual Purpose Tool: We underscore that gifting is not just an act of kindness but also a strategic marketing move that helps in building stronger relationships with clients and promoting your venue through positive word-of-mouth. Nine Creative Gift Ideas: Customized Welcome Gift Baskets featuring local treats, personalized notes, and a bottle of champagne. Personalized Stationery, useful for wedding planning notes or thank-you cards. Regional Wedding Magazine Subscriptions, providing inspiration and local vendor options. Spa Gift Certificates for relaxation during the stressful wedding planning process. Custom Sketch of Your Venue, a keepsake item for couples to cherish. Comprehensive Wedding Planning Books to assist in the organization and planning. Personalized Wedding Ornaments, a festive reminder of their special day. Monogrammed Items, offering a personal touch that celebrates the couple's union. Custom Spotify Playlists, a free and thoughtful way to share music that might resonate with the couple's journey. Strategic Gifting Moments: Upon Booking: A gesture of welcome and excitement about their decision. After the First Planning Meeting: Offering practical items like notepads or stationery. During Stressful Milestones: A spa certificate to encourage relaxation. Six Months Before the Wedding: Checking in and reminding couples of your support. During the Final Walkthrough: Providing vow books as a thoughtful touch. One Month Before the Wedding: Focusing on relaxation-focused gifts. A Week Before the Wedding: Building excitement with a custom playlist. On the Wedding Day: A small, personalized gift as a token of appreciation. After the Honeymoon: Sending a framed photo from their wedding day to prolong the joy. We also recommend the book for further inspiration on crafting a meaningful client gifting strategy. If you’re interested in one on one Venue Consulting with Lindsay, visit her here:
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The Ultimate Guide to Hiring Your First (or next) Marketing Assistant at Your Wedding Venue
04/01/2024
The Ultimate Guide to Hiring Your First (or next) Marketing Assistant at Your Wedding Venue
In today's episode of The Venue Podcast, Kinsey Roberts steps in solo, as Lindsay Lucas dedicates time to her thriving one-on-one venue consultations! You can reach out to Lindsay here about Venue Consulting: We're chatting and brainstorming about all things HIRING when it comes to your first or next Marketing Assistant. Recognizing the Right Time for a Marketing Hire Three pivotal signs indicating it's time to bring a marketing professional on board: 1. Growth Signals: Your venue might be experiencing a surge in bookings, or you're aiming to upscale your brand or delve into new market segments. An overload of leads you can't manage alone also points towards this need. 2. Strategic Shifts: Whether it's a brand overhaul, targeting a new customer demographic, or significant enhancements to your venue's offerings (like adding accommodations or a decor line), these changes necessitate specialized marketing expertise. 3. Expertise Gaps: Realizing the complexities of digital marketing or identifying areas beyond your skill set are clear indicators that a marketing expert could significantly benefit your business. Finding Your Marketing Match Four places to scout for the perfect marketing assistant: - Industry Networks: Engaging with professionals through industry associations or social media groups can lead you to potential hires. - Job Platforms: Utilizing job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, or FlexJobs can open doors to candidates with the specific skills you seek. - Referrals: Tapping into your industry contacts for recommendations can yield valuable leads. - Freelancing Platforms: For those not ready to commit to a full-time hire, exploring freelance marketers could be a strategic initial steps. Pre-Hiring Steps to Success To ensure you're making an informed decision, preparation is key: 1. Define Your Goals: Clarity on what you aim to achieve with your marketing efforts is crucial. 2. Audit Your Current Marketing: Understanding what's working (or not) will help tailor your search for a marketer with the necessary expertise. 3. Budget Accordingly: Determine your financial readiness for this addition, keeping in mind that effective marketing strategies are an investment that pays off. 4. Develop a Job Description: Crafting a detailed job description will attract candidates aligned with your needs. Engaging Interview Questions In the episode, we detail six specific questions to ask your potential hires to gauge their skillset and understand if they're the best fit for the position you're hiring for. We also share the benefits of having candidates perform a small sample project.
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Best Practices for Living Onsite at Your Wedding Venue
03/20/2024
Best Practices for Living Onsite at Your Wedding Venue
Kinsey's Favorite Place to Buy Property Signs: Living on-site at your venue can blend the lines between personal privacy and professional spaces. In a candid discussion on The Venue Podcast, hosts Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas share their perspectives on managing this unique situation. Kinsey, who lives on her venue property, offers firsthand advice on maintaining privacy while ensuring a seamless experience for guests. Establishing Boundaries with Signage and Gates One of Kinsey's first tips involves clear signage and gated areas to direct guests appropriately and prevent them from inadvertently accessing private areas. This not only aids in guest navigation but also serves as a first line of defense for privacy. By locking gates and posting directional signs, venue owners can significantly reduce unwanted foot traffic near their personal residences. Practical Measures: Utilize gates and custom signs to guide guests, minimizing confusion and protecting private spaces. Venue Policies Supporting Privacy Venue policies can be strategically crafted to support the dual purpose of the property, serving both as a business and a residence. Kinsey highlights how specific rules around noise control and event end times not only respect neighbors but also contribute to a peaceful living environment for the venue owners themselves. Policy Implementation: Adjust venue policies to ensure they accommodate your living situation, balancing guest experience with personal needs. Managing Expectations and Communications Interestingly, Kinsey shares her journey from openly discussing her on-site residence with clients to choosing a more reserved approach. This shift was prompted by unexpected requests from clients and vendors, illustrating the importance of setting clear boundaries. However, she also notes situations where disclosing her residence can be advantageous for policy enforcement and operational clarity. Communication Strategies: Weigh the pros and cons of disclosing your on-site residence, focusing on privacy while maintaining open lines of communication where beneficial. Planning for Future Scenarios Looking ahead, Kinsey and Lindsay ponder the implications of raising a family on a venue property, particularly as children grow older and become more independent. They discuss potential safety and logistical considerations, underscoring the importance of proactive planning and policy adjustments to accommodate changing family dynamics. Future Considerations: Anticipate how living on-site will impact family life in the long term, especially as children reach driving age, and plan accordingly.
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Exploring the Wedding Venue Potential of Your Successful Airbnb
03/18/2024
Exploring the Wedding Venue Potential of Your Successful Airbnb
A Common Inquiry Among Airbnb Owners In episode 68 of The Venue Podcast, Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas address a recurring question from Airbnb owners about transitioning their successful short-term rental properties to also serve as wedding venues. This episode unpacks the considerations and steps needed to capitalize on the burgeoning demand for intimate and mid-sized weddings at unique locations like Airbnb properties. Initial Considerations: Recognizing the overlap between the short-term rental and wedding venue industries, Kinsey and Lindsay highlight the growing interest among Airbnb owners in hosting weddings. Key Questions: They dissect an inquiry from Stephanie, who wonders how to venture into weddings without disrupting her successful Airbnb business. Navigating Airbnb's Policy on Events One of the first hurdles mentioned is Airbnb's strict no-events policy. Kinsey points out that while Airbnb currently prohibits large events, including weddings, there's a workaround by booking weddings directly, bypassing Airbnb's platform. This approach, however, requires additional marketing efforts and the creation of a separate business entity for the wedding venue aspect. Direct Booking Strategy: Encouraging Airbnb owners to consider direct bookings for weddings to circumvent platform restrictions. Legal and Marketing Considerations: Highlighting the importance of adhering to Airbnb's policies while exploring direct marketing strategies for wedding bookings. Taking the Plunge: Investment and Commitment Lindsay emphasizes the importance of treating the wedding venue as a distinct business venture, necessitating investments in infrastructure, legal structuring, and dedicated marketing efforts. This approach ensures that both the Airbnb and wedding venue operations can flourish without infringing on each other. Investment in Infrastructure: Discussing the potential need for physical upgrades or additions to accommodate weddings. Separation of Business Entities: Advising on the legal and financial separation of the short-term rental and wedding venue businesses for clarity and efficiency. Leveraging Existing Success for Future Growth Kinsey suggests innovative ways to utilize the success of the Airbnb business to fuel the wedding venue venture. One such strategy involves building an email list of past and potential guests through tools like StayFi, enabling direct communication about wedding opportunities outside the Airbnb platform. Building an Email List: Utilizing tools to capture guest emails for direct marketing of wedding services. Capitalizing on Warm Leads: Leveraging the positive experiences of Airbnb guests to introduce them to the wedding venue offering.
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How to Budget for Venue Renovations
03/13/2024
How to Budget for Venue Renovations
Embracing Phased Business Growth In the latest episode of The Venue Podcast, Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas tackle the complex subject of budgeting for renovations, a crucial aspect of managing a wedding venue. Lindsay emphasizes the significance of phased development, advising venue owners to break down their vision into manageable, financially viable stages. This approach not only aids in securing funding by reducing the immediate financial burden but also allows for strategic growth and improvement over time. Phased Development: Implementing your venue’s vision in stages to manage costs and growth effectively. Strategic Improvements: Prioritizing renovations that enhance client experience and, by extension, the venue's appeal. Learning from Kinsey’s Experience Kinsey shares her personal journey with venue improvements, highlighting the benefits of cash-based renovations to avoid substantial debts. She regrets not integrating certain necessary improvements, like storage solutions, into the venue's initial financing. These reflections provide valuable lessons on the importance of foresight in planning and the balance between enhancing client experience and managing financial health. Cash-based Renovations: Kinsey’s approach to funding improvements through the venue’s profits, minimizing debt. Importance of Foresight: Recognizing the need for essential improvements early to integrate them into initial financing plans. Deciding on Renovations When contemplating renovations, Kinsey advises weighing the cost against the potential return on investment (ROI). While some improvements directly impact revenue, others enhance the client experience or operational efficiency. These decisions require a careful assessment of the venue’s financial status, future booking projections, and the overall impact on the venue's marketability and client satisfaction. Assessing ROI: Evaluating the financial and experiential return of proposed improvements. Operational Efficiency vs. Client Experience: Balancing renovations that streamline operations with those that directly benefit clients. Reflections on Prioritization and Regret Kinsey opens up about her method for prioritizing projects and the learning curve involved in venue management. She underscores the significance of not dwelling on past decisions but learning from them to make informed future choices. Moreover, setting aside a "fun money" budget for annual improvements allows for continuous enhancement without compromising the venue’s financial stability. Prioritizing Projects: Using a systematic approach to determine which renovations to undertake based on their impact and cost. Learning from Experience: Kinsey reflects on her journey, stressing the value of learning from past decisions to guide future renovations.
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Time to Sell Your Wedding Venue? Or Is this a Burnout Season?
03/11/2024
Time to Sell Your Wedding Venue? Or Is this a Burnout Season?
Reflecting on the Desire to Sell In this episode, Kinsey and Lindsay provide a comprehensive guide for venue owners contemplating a sale. They cover emotional, strategic, and practical aspects, offering listeners a holistic view of the decision-making process. The message is clear: whether deciding to sell or combat burnout, the approach should be methodical and data-informed. Genuine Desire vs. Temporary Burnout: Assess if selling is a response to recent hardships or a well-considered decision. Impact of Recent Years: Recognize the exceptional nature of challenges faced by venue owners recently. Preparing for the Sale Lindsay, with her experience in selling businesses, advises owners on initial steps for selling a venue. She emphasizes the importance of early planning, understanding the end goal of the business, and preparing for potential outcomes. This involves evaluating the business's worth, legal structuring, and tax planning. Business Evaluation: Use resources like to determine the venue's value. Legal and Tax Considerations: Seek the expertise of acquisitions and real estate attorneys for informed planning. Addressing Burnout Kinsey provides practical advice on dealing with burnout. She differentiates between being disorganized and being genuinely burnt out, emphasizing the importance of having efficient systems in place. "Learn to rest, not to quit," she advises, suggesting that sometimes taking a break can rejuvenate one's passion for the business. Identifying Burnout: Understand the root cause—whether it's organizational issues or true exhaustion. Overcoming Burnout: Implement systems to improve operations and consider taking a break to recover. Making a Smart Business Decision Finally, the hosts delve into the business side of selling a venue. They stress making decisions based on data and numbers, rather than emotions. If an owner decides to sell, they should ensure their business is in top shape, from financials to online presence, to maximize its value. Data-Driven Decisions: Let financial performance guide whether to sell the venue. Optimizing Business Value: Refresh social media and other business aspects to increase the venue's marketability.
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Hot Take: Wealth Management Firms' Interest in Venue Acquisition
03/06/2024
Hot Take: Wealth Management Firms' Interest in Venue Acquisition
The Surge of Interest from Wealth Management Firms In a recent wave from January to June 2023, Lindsay observed an unusual trend: a number of wealth management firms expressed keen interest in investing in the wedding industry, specifically wedding venues. After some thorough research, she confirmed that these firms were independent of each other and scattered across the US, from New York to California. Their goal was to invest large sums, often with the intent to acquire and grow various wedding venue businesses. Diverse Interest: Multiple wealth management firms are looking to invest in the wedding industry. Investment Goals: Strategies range from flipping venues for profit to monopolizing local markets. Initial Skepticism and Due Diligence Lindsay shared her initial hesitations about these inquiries, emphasizing the importance of due diligence. She expressed concern over the firms' approach, which seemed to undervalue the hard work of venue owners by referring to their businesses as "mom and pop" venues. The firms aimed to purchase profitable venues, with profits matching their investment, which Lindsay questioned, suggesting that a venue making significant profits wouldn't likely sell for just one year's earnings. Protecting Venue Owners: Approach inquiries with skepticism and due diligence. Understanding Value: Consider the true worth of a profitable business before entertaining offers. Negotiating Power and Legal Protection The hosts advised venue owners to involve legal counsel in any serious acquisition discussions. With wealth management firms likely having extensive legal and financial advice, it's crucial for venue owners to level the playing field with their own experts, particularly acquisitions and real estate attorneys. Legal Representation: Engage an acquisitions attorney and a real estate attorney when approached. Know Your Worth: Ensure you understand the full value of your business and have professional financial advice. Emotional Considerations and Strategic Decisions Moving beyond the financials, Kinsey and Lindsay discussed the emotional and strategic aspects of potentially selling a venue. They advised venue owners to separate emotions from the decision-making process and to consider the long-term implications for the industry and their personal lives. Emotional Detachment: Keep emotions away from the transactional aspect of selling your business. Future of the Industry: Reflect on the potential impact of such sales on the wedding industry's sustainability.
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Listener Q & A: Practical Tips for Reviving a Wedding Venue Business
03/04/2024
Listener Q & A: Practical Tips for Reviving a Wedding Venue Business
In this episode, co-hosts Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas respond to a listener's inquiry about reviving a farm-turned-wedding venue. The listener, Amanda, faced discouragement after hosting one wedding that led to financial loss, followed by the pandemic's halt to their business. With the farm's future at stake, Amanda contemplates hosting weddings again as a financial lifeline. This episode provides a blend of empathy and practical advice for venue owners facing challenges in their current venue situation. Kinsey and Lindsay offer actionable steps to stabilize and grow a venue business without overextending financially. They emphasize creative thinking, flexibility, and grit as essential qualities for overcoming adversity in the venue management industry. • Challenges: Hosting one wedding before COVID led to a financial setback. • Current Situation: The need to revive the venue is urgent to sustain the farm. Immediate Strategies Without Further Investment Kinsey’s immediate advice is to utilize the current venue space without additional investment, focusing on attracting clients who are looking for what the venue already offers. This approach emphasizes minimizing costs while maximizing the potential of the existing infrastructure. • Utilizing Current Resources: Capitalize on the venue's existing state to avoid further expenses. • Target Market: Identify and cater to clients who desire the venue's current ambiance and facilities. Generating Quick Wins with Creative Event Planning Lindsay suggests exploring alternative event opportunities for quick financial gains. These include organizing farmer's markets, corporate retreats, and themed photography sessions. The idea is to create a diverse event portfolio that can bring in immediate revenue. • Diverse Events: Consider hosting different types of events like markets and retreats. • Partnerships: Collaborate with photographers for seasonal mini-sessions to fully book the calendar. Long-Term Financial Planning and Hustle Mindset The hosts advise on structuring payment plans for weddings to improve cash flow and discuss the importance of a 'hustle mindset,' including taking on additional jobs if necessary. They stress that temporary sacrifices may be required to save the family farm and sustain the business. • Payment Structure: Implement a payment plan for clients that ensures steady cash flow. • Adaptability: Consider supplementary employment as a temporary measure to support the venue business.
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Tips (and a Script!) for Introducing Your Venue's In House Bar
02/28/2024
Tips (and a Script!) for Introducing Your Venue's In House Bar
In this episode of The Venue Podcast, hosts Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas delve into the intricacies of managing in-house bar services at your wedding venue. This episode provides venue owners with practical tips on introducing bar packages, ensuring clients are well-informed, and handling common concerns with grace and confidence. Setting the Stage for Successful Bar Management Kinsey shares her approach to introducing bar services, emphasizing the importance of clear communication from the outset. Her strategy includes making bar package options transparent on the venue's website, ensuring potential clients are aware of the services before they even book a tour. This level of upfront transparency continues through the tour process and subsequent communications, reinforcing the venue's in-house bar policies and helping to set expectations early on. By embedding information about the bar in multiple places—such as the FAQ section, pricing page, and tour booking confirmation—Kinsey ensures that clients are never caught off guard by the venue's alcohol policies. Personalized Communication and Firm Policies: The Key to Client Satisfaction A standout part of the episode is a role-play segment where Lindsay pretends to be a bride with questions about the bar service. This engaging scenario showcases how Kinsey addresses typical client queries, from budget considerations to fears of running out of alcohol, in a manner that is both relatable and firm. Kinsey's method of relating the venue's liquor license to that of a standard bar helps demystify the process for couples, making it easier for them to understand and comply with the venue's policies. Throughout, Kinsey maintains a balance between adapting her communication style to match the client's personality and firmly upholding the venue's established bar policies. Role-Playing for Confidence and Clarity Both Kinsey and Lindsay advocate for the practice of role-playing complex conversations with team members to build confidence in delivering and upholding policies. This technique, borrowed from Kinsey's experience in real estate, is highlighted as an effective way to prepare for real-world interactions with clients. By practicing responses to potential questions or concerns, venue owners can ensure they convey their policies with the right mix of warmth, professionalism, and authority. Clear communication, personalized client interactions, and the strategic use of role-play to master the art of conveying bar policies effectively, is a recipe for a successful in-house wedding venue bar. Good luck!
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How (and why) to Find LEGIT Legal Templates for Your Wedding Venue
02/26/2024
How (and why) to Find LEGIT Legal Templates for Your Wedding Venue
In this practical episode of The Venue Podcast, Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas tackle an often overlooked but critical aspect of running a wedding venue: the legal agreements necessary to protect your business. This isn't just about having a rental agreement; it's about ensuring your venue is covered from all angles. On today’s episode, we mention one of our favorite resources for legit legal templates for wedding venue owners, The Creative Law Shop. You can find The Creative Law Shop Here: https://www.shopcreativelaw.com/USE CODE LINDSAYLUCAS FOR 10% OFF YOUR ORDER AT THE CREATIVE LAW SHOP The Legal Foundation: From Operating Agreements to Privacy Policies The Core Seven: Lindsay breaks down the must-have contracts, which include an operating agreement (both single and multi-member), a venue rental agreement, a rescheduling agreement, an independent contractor agreement, a termination agreement, and surprisingly, a cancellation agreement. Each serves a unique purpose, from defining the operational backbone of your venue to setting clear terms for client engagements and staff relations. Digital and Operational Protections: Beyond the client-facing documents, Lindsay emphasizes the importance of having a privacy policy on your website, especially in the wake of GDPR regulations. This ensures that you're transparent about how you handle visitor data. Additionally, terms and conditions protect your website's content, safeguarding your intellectual property from unauthorized use. Real-World Insights and Practical Applications Beyond the Basics: Kinsey and Lindsay don't just list these agreements; they dive into the nuances of why each is crucial, sharing personal anecdotes and lessons learned. For instance, Kinsey's story about finding her personal contact information on another venue's website underscores the importance of customizing legal templates to fit your specific business needs. Annual Reviews and Proactive Updates: One of the golden nuggets of advice is the practice of reviewing and updating your contracts annually. The dynamic nature of the wedding industry, coupled with the long booking cycles, means that staying legally current is not just recommended; it's essential for continued protection and peace of mind.
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How to Lease a Wedding Venue
02/21/2024
How to Lease a Wedding Venue
In this episode of The Venue Podcast, hosts Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas unpack the intricacies of leasing a venue. With Kinsey's unique position of owning a venue business while leasing the physical space and Lindsay's extensive experience advising clients, they offer a well-rounded perspective on why leasing might just be the golden ticket for aspiring venue owners. Leasing: A Stepping Stone to Ownership Flexibility and Financial Savvy: Kinsey and Lindsay discuss the benefits of leasing as a financial lower-risk entry into the venue business. For those who've faced financing hurdles or want to dip their toes in the industry waters without the commitment of purchasing land and buildings, leasing provides an invaluable opportunity. It allows you to build a track record, hone your business acumen, and potentially pave the way for that triumphant moment of securing your own space down the line. The Nitty-Gritty: Pros, Cons, and Protections Pros of Leasing: The flexibility to test the venue business waters with less financial risk, the opportunity to build a proven track record, and the potential for a "Pretty Woman" moment with banks in the future. Cons and Considerations: Potential limitations on venue modifications and the need for clear, negotiated terms around upgrades and design changes. Kinsey highlights the importance of ensuring the lease agreement allows for the business's growth and operational needs, including insurance responsibilities and the lease term's length to match the booking cycle, ideally aiming for a minimum of five years to ensure stability and the ability to plan for the future. Professionalism and Preparation: Keys to Success Kinsey and Lindsay stress the importance of approaching lease negotiations with a professional mindset, emphasizing that both parties stand to gain from a well-structured agreement. They advise preparing thoroughly, consulting with legal experts to draft a lease that protects your interests, and understanding the value you bring to the table. The conversation also touches on the significance of planning for an exit strategy, ensuring financial stability throughout the lease term, and the respect that comes with treating the venture with the seriousness it deserves—even when dealing with family-owned properties. Leasing a venue can be an excellent strategy for entering the venue business with a solid foundation and lower initial financial risk. Kinsey and Lindsay's shared experiences and insights provide a valuable roadmap for navigating the complexities of leasing, emphasizing preparation, negotiation, and professionalism as the cornerstones of a successful venture. Whether you're facing challenges getting a full loan for building a venue from scratch or seeking experience before investing in your own property, this episode of The Venue Podcast offers practical advice and encouragement for the journey ahead.
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