The Wedding Biz - Behind The Scenes Of The Wedding Business

Peter Callahan almost didn’t become a world-famous caterer. Growing up around successful finance businessmen, he felt as if that was his destiny and attended undergraduate programs for business.   But with every elaborate party Peter designed and catered in college, he learned more about crafting incredible experiences through creativity and food.   It would still take him multiple failed college classes and several more years to finally make the leap from a career as a precious metals bonds trader, but at 26 he left to start his own food business and has never looked back.   In his adult life, Peter embraced his creativity and learned it’s never too late to start doing more of what you love. His famous artisanal miniature bites have become the cornerstone of his culinary brand, but with a mind like Peter’s, there is always more on the horizon.   About Peter:   Peter Callahan is the iconic owner and Creative Director of New York City-based Peter Callahan Catering. Widely credited with having created the mega

Simon T. Bailey is no stranger to success, even though he’s quite familiar with failure.  At a young age, Simon was turned down for multiple sports teams-but he didn’t let that stop him.  He left his first college after just one year and moved into a low-income neighborhood. His path took him to a high-level role, which he transitioned away from when it became clear his days as an employee there were numbered.  But in every situation, Simon was constantly searching for a way to use what he was truly passionate about-- helping others to discover their inner brilliance. Simon is unafraid to transform himself, to recognize the need to evolve. He understands this means putting yourself out there and potentially failing.  He spends this episode sharing his experiences and dropping life-changing perspectives on how you can help yourself grow, forgive others, and take responsibility for pursuing your dreams and find success.   About Simon T. Bailey: Simon T. Bailey helps people discover their inner brilliance. A bes

Troy Williams is a successful event designer, planner and lifestyle influencer, but his success didn’t happen overnight. It took years of hard work and persistence in following his dream, including cold-calling producers in Hollywood, finding an opportunity to be an intern at Warner Brothers Studios and helping to style celebrities who happened to shop during his shifts at Banana Republic.Above all, Troy credits his career to his passion, talent, and being truly kind to everyone he met. In this episode, Troy recounts his experience steadily blossoming into an event designer at Warner Brothers, and how he made the leap from a successful career in Hollywood premiere parties to taking on his own business: Simply Troy - where his A-List Celebrity network now recognizes him as a go-to for their own personal celebrations.   About Troy: Troy Williams is enthusiastically motivated by the sparkle in his client’s eye when they realize their vision has been spectacularly brought to life. He is inspired by any element he

At 15 years old, Ian Prosser’s love of floral design began when he took an elderly woman in his community to flower-arranging night classes. Through apprenticeships and competitions-- and some strong reservations from his family-- Ian’s talent grew tremendously, turning him into the youngest person to receive Scotland’s Floral Designer of the Year at just 19 years old.   As a self-proclaimed “detail freak”, Ian built a successful business for himself in Scotland with his eye for detail and made the transition to the United States 32 years ago, where he re-launched his business with great success in his very first year. Ian’s passion and knowledge of the industry includes work with luxury and celebrity clients alike-- even royalty! Learn what you need to know about building an iconic design and decor business in the luxury wedding niche through Ian’s stories, experiences, and advice.   About Ian:   Ian Prosser, originally from Glasgow, Scotland and currently residing in Florida, was the youngest person to rece

If you’ve never had the joy of working with a partner who absolutely lives to utterly blow the clients’ mind, then you will find this interview with today’s guest, Eddie Zaratsian a breath a fresh air. Eddie’s abundant energy and passion for creating a feast for the senses, allow him to reflect the very essence of his clients in an unimaginable way.  Eddie Zaratsian is the Owner of Eddie Zaratsian Lifestyle and Design. Eddie was born in Armenia and came to the US when he was 5 years old. Eddie watched his parents come to the US, unable to speak English, without the promise of a career, and yet they still set out to pursue their dreams. The family eventually arrived in Hollywood and built the life they had dreamed of. Eventually, Eddie started his own business that grew over time and became a luxury lifestyle and design company serving A-list clients and creating events that cultivate a sense of wonder and delight the senses.    Show Highlights:   Hear the unexpected way that Eddie started his business - it e

Kirsten Ott Palladino & Maria Palladino are co-founders of Equally Wed, an online wedding magazine celebrating love and weddings in the LGBTQ+ community. It also provides education and resources for same-sex couples and equality-minded wedding professionals. But this is far more than just a business venture.   In 2004, Kirsten and Maria fell in love, getting engaged just before Kirsten’s 30th birthday in Central Park. When Kirsten began searching online and in book stores for wedding planning resources as a same-sex couple, she didn’t see any content out there that reflected her relationship with Maria. Initially sad, Kirsten channeled her emotions into a project called Equally Wed-- an online journal and national wedding magazine for LGBTQ+ couples. With Maria’s background in graphic design and web development and Kirsten’s experience in writing editorial content, the two created a national wedding magazine and resource guide for people in the LGBTQ+ community and their allies who want to learn, connect,

When innate creativity and business collide, the world benefits from the amazing products and services those businesses provide. Creative businesses aren’t easily defined and many times, don’t fit neatly into established business niches. This episode will provide clarity and direction for any creative business owner. Today, Andy Kushner, the host of The Wedding Biz podcast, sits down for an insightful conversation about the business side of running a creative business with Sean Low, the Founder and President of The Business of Being Creative, LLC. The most obviously amazing thing about Sean is that he can see the big picture and connect the dots for any business and lead them to success - it’s part of a special magic he seems to have.    Sean Low is an entrepreneur at heart. He has a law degree and even did a stint at a Wall Street investment bank, but he didn’t let any of that stop him from seeing the potential to start a creative business. Sean knows the ups and downs of being a small business owner, as he

So far on the Wedding Biz, we have had multiple perspectives on planning and executing traditional Western weddings. Therefore, I am incredibly thrilled to bring you Nikki Khan, founder of L.A-based Exquisite Events. Nikki has found her place as the luxury wedding planner for traditional, yet magical South Asian weddings. The scale of Nikki’s events can be difficult to wrap your mind around. For some perspective, her own wedding had over 1,000 guests! Luxury South Asian weddings are multi-day events filled with spectacular design, entertainment, ceremony, and family. Nikki has the right mixture of business savvy, taste, and attention to detail to be able to pull off events of this scale. The daughter of a Pakistani diplomat, Nikki grew up with an international perspective and multiple cultural influences. She attended finishing school in Switzerland, and while her family was living in Europe, she was able to travel all over. These travels filled Nikki with a sense of awe that she uses as fuel for her splendid

Wedding planning, production, and design seem to require a bit of tenacity. To make it in the wedding and event industry, you have to be willing to take a risk and execute a vision. It turns out that you also need to be a bit opportunistic and ready to jump when the stars align. This philosophy has carried Pauline Parry very far in the business. She is the esteemed founder of Good Gracious, a Los Angeles-based company that is creating masterful events worldwide. Pauline and her team at Good Gracious specialize in production and event design, gourmet cuisine, and flawless execution at any location. I have Pauline on the show today because her success in business wasn’t a one-shot effort, and her diverse experiences make for some wonderful storytelling. Pauline decided to seize the opportunity to move with her new husband and two children from her home country of Great Britain to L.A. With no money, no business plan, and a passion for food and good company, Pauline dared to start her own catering business. This

When it comes to luxury weddings and events, every detail can become a work of art. Today, I am talking all about business with Wombi Rose, CEO of Lovepop. Lovepop specializes in 3D greeting cards that are truly works of art. Whether it is a card for someone you love or unique invitations to a wedding, Lovepop communicates your message and affection in a unique and surprising way you just can’t find anywhere else. I am excited to have Wombi on the show today because his business is transforming the greeting card game. It is an unusual story that I know you are going to want to hear. Lovepop cards are a feat of both artistry and engineering, which makes sense once you know about Wombi’s background. Before turning to business, Wombi’s attended school for Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. Encouraged by friend and future business partner, John Wise, to join him at Harvard Business school, Wombi found a new avenue that combined his love of learning and desire to solve real-world problems. While completing

It takes a certain level of skill, a problem-solving attitude, and more than a dash of creativity to throw a spectacular wedding. Between coordinating the client’s vision, compiling vendor partners, troubleshooting setup, and sending the bride down the aisle, wedding planners have a lot on their plate. After creating absolutely stunning weddings and high-profile events for 20 years, Debbie Geller, my guest today, knows a thing or two about event planning and design. Geller Events operates out of Los Angeles, but she’s been designing events all over the world. Her high-profile clients come from a long legacy of word-of-mouth business. She does little to no PR, instead relying on client referrals and legacy clients who keep coming back for Debbie’s personalized touch on everything from weddings to corporate events. She breaks some of the typical event planning stereotypes to provide a unique experience tailored to each couple. Debbie is the heart and soul of her business, though none of these events could be ac

When we think about wedding and event floral designs, our imagination is often limited to bouquets and centerpieces. Today, I am talking to one of the premier event designers in the world.  She sees flowers and foliage as a way to create lasting memories of events your guests will never forget. Mindy Rice, of Mindy Rice Design, is a native Californian with a creative lineage. Growing up, Mindy was taught how to think like a designer. Never feeling confined by the “rules” wedding floral arrangements like to follow, Mindy seemed to fall into the wedding business after designing events for the corporate world. What makes Mindy unique is how she encourages her clients to step into their most daring self. She turns dreams into reality—no Pinterest board copy-cat ideas here! Today, Mindy is going to walk us through her process, from the exciting ideation stages to actually executing her most memorable pieces. She will share stories of how she has transformed a simple barn into a Redwood wonderland. Mindy will descr

These days, The Knot is largely synonymous with planning a modern wedding. It is often the first resource brides will use to feel empowered during an uncertain time. There’s a reason for that! Founder of The Knot, Carley Roney, and Brand Builder, Anja Winikka, are innovating the wedding business through authentic connection and female empowerment. The Knot is the #1 Mobile Wedding App, and most bride’s first destination after getting engaged. What started as a small company trying to simplify wedding planning has grown to become one of the most innovative and female-focused entrepreneurial endeavors. Innovation and inclusivity were at the heart of Carley Roney’s vision for The Knot when she and her husband started the company in the early 90’s. With the brand mastery of Anja Winnika, The Knot has solidified its identity as the authority on just about every facet of the wedding business, while also empowering brides to create a wedding that is personal and fun. A lot has changed about the wedding industry sinc

Edgar Zamora is the founder and lead designer of the highly acclaimed Revelry Event Designers, the industry’s go-to event and interior design company specializing in designing and installing private, as well as corporate events worldwide. Edgar is a “Transformer of Spaces”, having an innovative and progressive design view. As president and CEO of Revelry Event Designers, Edgar’s exquisite event furniture has transformed events such as the opening of Disney Hall, celebrity weddings including Brad Pitt/Jennifer Aniston, Shaquille O’Neal and Sofia Vergara (just to name a few) and a slew of Oscar parties including the famous post-Oscars Governors Ball. Listen along as Edgar and Andy discuss how he seamlessly translated his talent for draping mannequins to event design. Stories of his childhood inspirations and travel adventures are shared between the two. Together, they also recall the tour Andy personally received of Edgar’s venerate 125K square foot company warehouse which not only showcased the level of esteem

Today, we welcome Claudia Hanlin of the Wedding Library! Claudia has an extensive resume behind her as a Contributing Editor to Martha Stewart Weddings, having received numerous honors including the prestigious Modern Bride Innovators Award, four International Special Events Society Big Apple Awards for Design, The Knot’s Best of New York Wedding Planner and Juli B’s Top US Shopping Service Award. Also, previously Claudia produced several years of The Wedding Party with Martha Stewart Weddings, a luxury bridal showcase taking place in both New York City and Chicago, and will soon announce a new sponsor. Andy sits down with Claudia to discuss life, career and her most memorable moments on the job. She shares extravagant tales of a celebration for composer Howard Shore, weddings she has produced, as well as details about her innovative resource for brides for the entire planning experience, called The Wedding Library.  Details about Claudia's upcoming Destination Masterclass Conference are revealed in this epis

Sharon Sacks is the epitome of a multi-tasking go-getter! Early in her career she caught her first big break working with Berry Gordy Jr. and his Motown Records label during its peak which included projects with Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder. From there, Sharon went on to work with Jerry Perenchio, who turned out to be her greatest mentor yet. Through working with him, she got the opportunity to explore her love of creation through various weddings and events such as a grand celebration for Prince Andrew. Sharon ultimately emerged into the world of business and since then conquered numerous other projects such as creating a collection of home decor for Alchemy Fine Home and fine china for Lenox. Her passion for creation and desire to foster memorable moments has flourished and helped her become the prestigious and creative business woman she is today. Today's interview is one you will not want to miss. Sharon Sacks sits down with Andy to share stories about her her road to success. She also shares details of

As Owner, CEO and Creative Director of AOO Events of Los Angeles since 1989, David Merrell has seen and done just about everything there is in the world of events. David’s start in life may sound unusual compared to other wedding professionals. He worked several 9 to 5 office jobs, including a position as an underwriter for an insurance company. His journey from office worker to owner of an award winning event planning, designing and producing company is truly unique and inspiring. Today, Andy and David share a chat filled with stories about his path to professional success, and how he handles the pressures and logistics of such a complex industry. The pair also touch on what’s changed in the wedding and corporate event world, how to set the best price points and margins for maximum success and satisfaction, and how to balance creativity with acting as the boss. Prepare to be inspired! Listen to the entire interview right here! Links David Merrell [Instagram] David Merrell [Facebook] David Merrell [Twitter] A

When you think of experiencing personalized and experiential destination weddings, you most likely need to be thinking of Harlan and Kara, The Travel Siblings. This duo has been designing private and intimate events and luxury travel experiences around the globe for years through their affiliation with the Elite Division of Travel Leaders  - Tzell Travel Group and were recently recognized by Conde Nast as the "Best Agents for Destination Weddings". The pair found their love for travel when Harlan was working as a traveling opera singer as a young teen. He would often bring his younger sister Kara on a few getaways in between tours. There, they both fell in love with the art of luxurious travel, fine dining, and unique global experiences. These moments informed and influenced the pair’s business of offering unforgettable luxury travel experiences uniquely catered to their clients whom wish to wed at a magical destinations. Today, Andy, Harlan, and Kara share a fun and lively talk about how the sibling’s upbrin

Darcy Miller has always had creative inspirations around her. From growing up with creatively inclined parents, to creating her own crafts and projects in 6th grade, she’s had the gene in her. Her design and editorial contributions during the early days of Martha Stewart Living would eventually lead her to becoming the Editor -at-Large at Martha Stewart Weddings. Her journey, full of fascinating jobs, integral connections, and chances to pursue her own creative ideas, remind us all to stay true to our passions, and to always be willing to do whatever it takes to keep your dreams alive. Today, Andy and Darcy share stories about how the wedding industry has changed so completely over the years, and how Martha Stewart Weddings became one of the main driving forces of the explosion of creativity and options in the wedding arena. The pair also discuss how Darcy’s positions changed and pivoted over her years at several publications, what her DIT philosophy means, and her own take on celebrating everything life has

Michelle Rago has always had wanderlust flowing through her veins. It’s what has inspired her to build her massively successful career as a wedding and event destination producer and expert. She’s now one of the most sought-after destination event planners in the world, in large part because of her vision, relationship building skills, and meticulous attention to every possible detail. Her love for travel and experiencing new cultures came from a study abroad trip in Greece when she was just 15. Ever since, she’s been exploring new ways to bring stunning events and weddings to the most inspiring and beautiful locations around the globe. Today, Andy and Michelle chat about the steps she took to growing her passions and her business, and some of the major epiphanies and milestones she realized along the way. The pair also dive into how she untangles the vastly intricate puzzles of destination weddings, her process of making an event come to fruition, and some of her favorite and most satisfying events to date.