The Event: Crushed Podcast for Wedding Pros

Ep. 29: Avoid Panic Marketing with Serena of Dande Agency

This week, Becky interviews Serena Waller from Dande Agency, discussing unique perspectives on Instagram and social media marketing for wedding pros. Serena shares her journey to social media management, the evolving landscape of Instagram features, and ways that wedding pros can get ahead of the game with social media. The conversation emphasizes the importance of viewing social media as a game, the significance of adapting to new features, and the strategic use of keywords and hashtags for better visibility. Serena also uses a memorable wedding cake analogy to explain the importance of various content types, and explains panic marketing and why it is an ineffective strategy for wedding pros. 
 
 
Key Takeaways
Social media should be viewed as a game with flexible rules; the key to winning in social media is to actively participate
Instagram has rolled out many new features including 20-image carousels
Using keywords in captions is essential for SEO on Instagram
Hashtags should be geographically focused and used strategically
Instagram's algorithm is user-driven, not creator-driven
Alt text can be used for better SEO on Instagram posts.
Instagram can be visualized as a wedding cake with layers; each type of Instagram content serves a unique purpose
Panic marketing is ineffective and should be avoided
Systems and automation can significantly reduce overwhelm
Consistency in posting is key to maintaining visibility
Clients may not know their own preferences until they start collaborating
It's important to set clear expectations when hiring a social media manager
 
Connect with Serena ⬇️@dandeagency on Instagram | www.dandeagency.comCheck out Serena's newest offer, the Swell Social Club!
Connect with Becky ⬇️@eventcrush on Instagram | www.eventcrush.comThis episode was edited by Ace Sound Design. 
See you back here next week!

Ep. 28: The 5 Pillars of a Successful Website with Emily Foster Creative

In this conversation, Emily of Emily Foster Creative discusses her journey into the wedding industry and the importance of having a functional and beautiful website for wedding professionals. She outlines the five pillars of a successful website: brand strategy, design, copywriting, content, and SEO, emphasizing how each pillar interconnects to create a cohesive and effective online presence. The discussion also touches on the significance of SEO in attracting clients and the evolving landscape of wedding branding, emphasizing the importance of color and individuality. Emily also shares two wonderful freebies for wedding pros which are linked below!
 
Key Takeaways
A successful website must be both beautiful and functional, especially in the wedding industry
Brand strategy is the foundation for all of the remaining pillars; the "heart of your business"
High-quality images are crucial for website perception
SEO is a powerful tool for attracting clients in the wedding industry
Understanding your brand strategy can differentiate your business from competitors
A cohesive online presence is vital for success in the wedding industry.
Wedding pros can embrace color in high-end branding!
The wedding industry is evolving with new expectations from couples
SEO and copywriting are crucial components of a successful website
Not all designers cover all aspects of branding and marketing
Investing in professional services can significantly enhance brand visibility
 
Freebies from Emily:
Elevated Website Checklist
Selecting a Color Palette
Connect with Emily here: Website | Instagram 
Listen to Emily on the Power in Purpose podcast with Candice Coppola!
 
Are you following us on Instagram yet? Connect with us here!Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you're enjoying the show ☺️

Ep. 27: Buyer Beware: The Do's and Don'ts of Wedding Industry Education

In this week's solo episode, Becky discusses her personal experience with wedding industry education as a consumer and what she has learned along the way as someone who has invested a decent amount of money into conferences, workshops, courses, masterminds, and more. She shares some of her favorite resources and educational opportunities for wedding pros and wraps up the episodes with 3 'do's' and 3 'don'ts' for wedding pros to be aware of when preparing to invest in wedding industry education.
Wedding MBA is coming up in just a couple short weeks!! Will I see you there!?
Resources mentioned in this episode
Wedding Pro Insiders
Refine for Wedding Planners
The Planner's Playbook
The Planner's Vault
The Planner's Lounge
The Bridal Theory/Amanda Writesman
Be Sage Conference
Engage! Summits
Wedding Pro CEO Summit
Becky's favorite wedding industry podcasts
The Power in Purpose
Own Your Business
Wedding Industry Insider
Weddings for Real
The Evolve Your Wedding Business Podcast
Wedding Pro CEO
Other free resources
Book More Weddings Summit
Wedding Summit Series
The Refine Community for Wedding Planners
Candice Coppola freebies
✨ Let's Connect! ✨Event Crush on Instagram | Event Crush website | Email us
This podcast was edited and produced by Ace Sound Design. 🎙

Ep. 26: Embracing Authenticity on Instagram with Mimi of Wilder Social

This week, Becky and Mimi of Wilder Social discuss the intricacies of social media for wedding professionals and the importance of being authentic and how this helps our online presence. Mimi shares her journey into the wedding industry, the challenges wedding pros are facing with the Instagram algorithm, and the importance of genuine engagement.
 
We also explore effective content strategies, the significance of educational posts, and the evolving role of social media managers and content creators in the wedding industry. The discussion emphasizes the need for wedding pros to focus on quality interactions over vanity metrics and the value of storytelling in their content.
 
Key Takeaways
Instagram's algorithm changes have affected engagement metrics significantly.
Authenticity and genuine interactions are crucial for success on social media.
Educational content is currently thriving in the wedding industry.
Follower count does not equate to success.
Wedding pros should focus on storytelling in their content.
Community engagement is essential for building relationships on social media.
Investing in a quality social media manager can yield better results.
There are many viewpoints surrounding content creators and how content creation should be handled -- listen in for Mimi's take on all of this!
 
Connect with MImi!Wilder Social Website | Wilder Social on Instagram
 
Let's Connect Event Crush Website | Event Crush on Instagram
 
This episode was produced and edited by Ace Sound Design

Ep. 25: Navigating Public Relations for Wedding Pros with Meghan Ely

In this week's episode, Becky interviews Meghan Ely, a PR expert for wedding professionals, discussing the importance of public relations in the wedding industry. They explore common misconceptions about PR, the benefits of getting published, and various opportunities available for wedding pros to enhance their visibility. Meghan shares practical steps for those new to PR, emphasizing the need for organization and strategic planning. The conversation concludes with an overview of the services offered by OFD Consulting, aimed at helping wedding professionals navigate the world of PR effectively.
Key Takeaways
PR can seem overwhelming, but it's manageable step by step.
Many believe PR requires knowing the right people, which isn't necessarily true.
Getting published can significantly boost your business ROI.
PR should complement other marketing strategies, not replace them.
Social proof from publications enhances credibility with couples.
Start small and define what success looks like for you in PR.
Utilize free resources like Qwoted and Connectively to get started.
Getting organized is key to successful PR efforts.
OFD Consulting provides valuable resources and support for wedding pros.
Mentioned in this episode:- Qwoted - Connectively- Think Splendid / Splendid Insights 
 
Find Meghan here --> OFD ConsultingOFD Consulting on Instagram
See you back here next Friday! Event Crush on Instagram | eventcrush.com | Email BeckyThis episode is produced by Ace Sound Design. 
 

Ep. 24: Juggling Work, Life, & Family with Radhika of Rad Occasions

In this conversation, Becky Hart and Radhika Graham explore the complexities of work-life balance in the wedding industry. Radhika shares her journey from a full-time job to running her own wedding planning business, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries, asking for help, and prioritizing self-care. They discuss the challenges faced by wedding professionals, including time management and the pressure to please clients. Radhika introduces practical tools and techniques for productivity, such as the Pomodoro technique and going paperless, while also highlighting the significance of community support among industry peers. The conversation concludes with valuable advice for wedding pros on managing expectations and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
 
Key takeaways
Work-life balance is more of a juggle than a balance.
Setting boundaries is crucial for managing client expectations.
Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Self-care should be prioritized to avoid burnout.
Utilizing technology can streamline business processes.
Community support is essential in the wedding industry.
Outsourcing tasks can free up valuable time.
Meal planning can alleviate stress during busy seasons.
It's important to recognize that not every task is urgent.
Reflecting on past experiences can help set better boundaries.
 
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Manulife Vitality App - Canada
The Pomodoro Technique
Skylight Calendar
 
Connect with Rad!
radoccasions.ca
thatsradpodcast.ca
https://www.instagram.com/radoccasions/
 
 
Connect with us
Event Crush on Instagram | Email us | Event Crush on the web
 

Ep. 23: Optimizing Your Website for Sales Success with Hannah of Made with Boldness

This week, Becky Hart and Hannah Davis sit down to discuss the intricacies of designing effective websites for wedding professionals. They explore the benefits of using Showit, the importance of blogging and SEO, and the key components that make a wedding pro website successful. Hannah shares common mistakes to avoid, when to consider a rebrand, and offers final tips for wedding pros looking to enhance their online presence. The discussion emphasizes the need for clear navigation, compelling copy, and the importance of showcasing pricing to attract the right clients.
 
Key Takeaways
Showit can be a better fit for wedding pros than other platforms.
Blogging is an underutilized tool for wedding professionals.
Websites need to have clear calls to action.
Clear navigation is crucial for user experience.
Avoid overwhelming visitors with too many photos.
Fonts should be readable for accessibility (16 px minimum).
Pricing (at least starting prices or a range) should be visible on websites.
If it's been 4-5 years, you no longer like your branding, or it's not working for you anymore -- it's time for a rebrand!
Share your website with friends outside the industry for neutral feedback. 
 
Episodes mentioned in this podcast:
Episode 21:  Demystifying SEO for Wedding Pros with Adrienna of Ava & The Bee 
Connect with Hannah!
Hannah's website, Made with Boldness
Hannah's free website checklist mentioned in the episode
Hannah's Newsletter signup
Made with Boldness on Instagram
 
Event Crush on Instagram | becky@eventcrush.com | www.eventcrush.com
See you back here next week!
 

Ep. 22: Network like a (Wedding) Pro

This week we are diving DEEP into all things networking for wedding pros!
Do you love networking? Hate it? Avoid it at all costs? Whatever the case, this episode is for you!
Listen in on my presentation from the Book More Weddings Summit where I break down the benefits of networking, my best tips and tricks, and most importantly how to set yourself a part and build meaningful relationships to GROW your business. 
Get my FREE networking guide here!https://mailchi.mp/d3d2e09566b8/networking
 
Let's Connect:Instagram | Web | Email

Ep. 21: Demystifying SEO for Wedding Pros with Adrienna of Ava & the Bee

On this week's episode, Becky sits down with Adrienna McDermott of Ava & The Bee to chat all things SEO for wedding pros. Adrienna breaks down SEO, why it's essential for wedding pro success, and what we can be doing today to increase our chances of ranking higher on Google for our desired keywords. She reminds us that SEO is a long game and that we shouldn't expect results overnight. 
Key Takeaways
SEO is about telling Google what your website is about and who you serve
Optimize your website with meta titles and descriptions, structured headers, and a Google Business listing
The best website platforms for SEO are WordPress, Showit, and Squarespace
Use Google Analytics to track your website's performance
SEO is a long-term strategy that requires consistent effort and updates
 
Sound Bites
"SEO is simply telling Google what we want Google to know about you."
"Your website is your salesperson. That is what you are paying me to do, to get more website traffic to convert."
"73% of luxury wedding couples and 71% of ultra luxury found at least one of their vendors from an internet search last year."
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
05:07 Understanding SEO and Its Importance
08:46 Optimizing Your Website for SEO
10:35 The Role of SEO in Attracting Luxury Wedding Couples
13:07 Meta Titles and Descriptions
14:57 Header Structure and User Experience
17:32 SEO on Social Media Platforms
25:04 SEO for Google vs. Other Platforms
27:41 Tips for Improving SEO
32:35 Services Offered by Ava and the Bee
 
Connect with Adrienna!
Ava and The Bee Website | Ava and The Bee on Instagram
Ava and the Bee is an in-house marketing agency for wedding professionals ready for inclusive, results-driven marketing that creates freedom in their business and cultivates a client experience before couples ever start the conversation.
 
Thanks for tuning into another episode. We love hearing from you!
Shoot us a DM on instagram and let us know what you thought about this episode, or take a screenshot and share it on your story and be sure to tag @eventcrush and @avaandthebee. 
 
See you next week!

Ep. 20: Should the Luxury Market be the End Goal for Every Wedding Professional?

In this short solo episode, Becky discusses the obsession the wedding industry seems to have with the luxury market, and she questions whether it should be the ultimate goal for every wedding pro to serve luxury clientele. Becky emphasizes that luxury does not always equal success, and that it is very possible to run a successful wedding business while not serving the luxury market.
 
She shares about a "sweet spot" that she has found in serving clients with budgets that are under the $100k mark but where clients are laid back, trusting of their vendor team, and still care about the details and the guest experience.
 
She encourages wedding professionals to focus on providing a luxury level of service rather than solely pursuing luxury clients.
 
Key Takeaways
Not every wedding professional needs to strive for the luxury wedding market as the ultimate goal.
The vast majority of weddings are not in the luxury market.
Luxury does not always equal success in the wedding industry.
Providing a luxury level of service is more important than solely pursuing luxury clients.
Let's connect! Find us on:Instagram | Threads | Web | Email
 
Are you a new or aspiring wedding planner? Have you checked out my wedding planner mentorship yet?It's an affordable way to kick-start your wedding planning career! 
 
This episode is edited and produced by Ace Sound Design. Are you looking to maximize your listening experience? Make sure to check out their offerings!