Podcasts by The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business

156 RAY THOMPSON: Light Design&The Choreography Of Emotion from 2019-06-03T07:00

Lighting designer and owner of Images by Lighting Ray Thompson is here today to talk about storytelling with lighting for events and designing lighting for lux we...

155 THE NEXT LEVEL: ANDREA EPPOLITO: Celebrating the Greatest Luxury of All from 2019-05-29T07:00

In this episode of The Next Level, Andy Kushner and guest co-host, Bill Bowen, discuss key topics from last week’s interview with Andrea Eppolito. Andrea is an ex...

154 ANDREA EPPOLITO: Celebrating the Greatest Luxury of All from 2019-05-27T07:00

In today’s episode, guest Andrea Eppolito, founder of Andrea Eppolito Events, shares her journey of becoming an event planner, how she establishes relationships w...

153 THE NEXT LEVEL: CARL RAY: Celebrity Makeup Artist from 2019-05-22T07:00

Carl Ray, celebrity makeup artist and beauty expert, has mastered the art of highlighting the inner beauty of each individual client. And, in the service industry...

152 CARL RAY: Celebrity Makeup Artist from 2019-05-20T07:00

According to celebrity makeup artist, Carl Ray, makeup is a reflection of inner beauty and Carl is an expert on helping individuals express this. He is an esteeme...

151 THE NEXT LEVEL: Debbie Geller: Part 2, Creating Legacy Clients, Pricing&More from 2019-05-15T07:00

The backbone of any successful business starts with the quality of your connections. There are many ways to establish long-lasting and mutually beneficial relatio...

150 DEBBIE GELLER: Part 2, Creating Legacy Clients, Pricing&More from 2019-05-13T07:00

Orchestrating an event that leaves a lasting imprint on the guests and hosts is no small feat. There are a plethora of factors that combine to create a high-end a...

149 THE NEXT LEVEL: Liese Gardner: Brand Therapy&Marketing With Heart from 2019-05-08T07:00

On today’s episode of The Next Level, Guest Co-Host Shannon Leahy, of Shannon Leahy Events, joins Andy Kushner in reflecting on last week’s interview with Liese G...

148 LIESE GARDNER: Brand Therapy&Marketing With Heart from 2019-05-06T07:00

One of the most fundamental components of any business is marketing and communication. The art of learning how to create an effective marketing strategy is crucia...

147 REVISIT EDWIN MCCAIN: His Hit Wedding Songs from 2019-04-29T07:00

REVISIT: Due to popularity, we replay Andy’s inspiring conversation with the artist behind three enormously popular wedding songs---Edwin McCain. 

Edwin first gained industry attention wi...

146 THE NEXT LEVEL: Jennifer Stein: Editor In Chief Destination I Do Magazine from 2019-04-24T07:00

Today Andy Kushner and guest co-host, Harmony Walton, host of The Bridal Bar, discuss Andy’s interview with Jennifer Stein. Jennifer is the founder of Destination...

145 JENNIFER STEIN: Editor-In-Chief, Destination I Do Magazine from 2019-04-22T07:00

The only thing more magical than a destination wedding is putting it in print to share with the world. Today Jennifer Stein, Editor-In-Chief, Co-Founder, and publ...

144 THE NEXT LEVEL: Rishi Patel: CEO of HMR Designs from 2019-04-17T07:00

Join Andy Kushner and guest co-host, Jennifer Stein, Editor-In-Chief of Destination I Do Magazine, in today’s episode of The Next Level! Today Andy and Jennifer d...

143 RISHI PATEL: CEO of HMR Designs from 2019-04-15T07:00

“Luxury does not come without service. Service is luxury.” Today, CEO of HMR Designs, Rishi Patel, talks about how service and luxury work cohesively to create as...

142 THE NEXT LEVEL: Andre Wells: Fashion-Forward Event Design&Planning from 2019-04-10T07:00

Welcome to another episode of The Next Level! This week Andy Kushner brings on another industry icon, Sean Low of The Business Of Being Creative, to discuss highl...

141 ANDRE WELLS: Fashion-Forward Event Design&Planning from 2019-04-08T07:00

Sometimes we have to go through a preparation period before we’re able to tackle our dreams head on. Today Andre Wells, event planner, designer, and fashion enthu...

140 THE NEXT LEVEL: Laurie Arons: Fast-Tracking to the Luxe Level from 2019-04-03T07:00

Today, Andy and guest host, Julie Sabatino of The Stylish Bride, discuss highlights from this week’s interview with Laurie Arons. Laurie is a talented, luxury eve...

139 LAURIE ARONS: Fast-Tracking To The Lux Level from 2019-04-01T07:00

We’ve all been told to “fake it till we make it,” but sometimes honesty and tenacity are all it really takes to succeed. Today’s guest, Laurie Arons, is a luxury ...

138 THE NEXT LEVEL: Natasha Miller: Overcoming Adversity To Thrive from 2019-03-27T07:00

Being able to create the perfect ambiance for a wedding or event that leaves a lasting impact is a skill that sometimes gets overlooked. In this episode, Shannon ...

137 NATASHA MILLER: Overcoming Adversity To Thrive from 2019-03-25T07:00

Creativity can be sparked in a number of ways, but sometimes necessity is the best motivator. In today’s episode, Natasha Miller, President and CEO of Entire Prod...

136 THE NEXT LEVEL: Colin Cowie: Part 2 Creating Groundbreaking Luxury Experiences from 2019-03-20T07:00

Today’s guest co-host, Harmony Walton, joins Andy to help reflect on The Wedding Biz interview with Colin Cowie, Part 2, and how Colin finds innovation in everyth...

135 COLIN COWIE: Part 2 Creating Groundbreaking Luxury Experiences from 2019-03-18T07:00

Designing and planning an event is creating theater and telling a story. Today’s guest has a unique set of skills that he uses to tell these wonderful stories tha...

134 GREG LAWSON: Photography&Love Of The Planet from 2019-03-11T07:00

In this week’s discussion, photographer Greg Lawson takes Andy through his museum-like gallery in Sedona, Arizona, to explore the fundamentals of his philosophy o...

133 THE NEXT LEVEL: David Stark: Part 2 Creativity In Design&Business from 2019-03-06T08:00

As David Stark says, putting together a team is one of the most creative things you can do. That is just one of the dynamic topics Andy discusses with today’s gue...

132 DAVID STARK: Part 2 Creativity In Design&Business from 2019-03-04T08:00

Today’s guest is a Part 2 interview with renowned New York City event designer and producer David Stark, Chief Creative Officer of David Stark Design and Producti...

131 THE NEXT LEVEL: Bill Bowen: Videography With Heart from 2019-02-27T08:00

Weddings are compiled of moments, planning, and people who have invested their all into ensuring that the result is magical. Having someone along the way to captu...

130 BILL BOWEN: Videography With Heart from 2019-02-25T08:00

Bill Bowen is the Founder and President of Suburban Video based out of Rockville, Maryland though he travels worldwide. Being able to look back and watch a video,...

129 THE NEXT LEVEL: COLIN COWIE: Part 1 Groundbreaking Luxury Experiences from 2019-02-20T08:00

Being able to curate an authentic experience that coincides with luxury is what ultimately differentiates a high-end wedding planner from another. Colin Cowie is ...

128 REVISIT COLIN COWIE: Part 1 Groundbreaking Luxury Experiences from 2019-02-18T08:00

REVISIT: Colin Cowie is a top designer for all things weddings—as well as galas, charitable events, corporate and destination celebrations. He's beloved by the likes of Oprah, Jerry Seinfeld, El...

127 THE NEXT LEVEL: Cindy Novotny: Part 2 Master Connection Associates from 2019-02-13T08:00

Having a set expectation of goals implemented is important for any company. This structure helps eliminate losing direction and the impact of confrontation. In to...

126 CINDY NOVOTNY: Part 2 Master Connection Associates from 2019-02-11T08:00

Have you come across challenges in life with your business? Most companies do, and today we hear from motivational and leadership expert, Cindy Novotny. Handling ...

125 ANDY KUSHNER: Interviewed By Mary Swaffield of The Wedpreneur from 2019-02-04T08:00

Today it's all about Andy! For quite a while now, people have been asking him to air an interview about himself. Andy has been interviewed on many different podca...

124 THE NEXT LEVEL: LYNN EASTON: PART 2 - Branding, Pricing&Choosing A Team from 2019-01-30T08:00

Today we have part two of our interview with Lynn Easton. Lynn is a very popular planner and designer in the industry, who also speaks at various conferences. She...

123 LYNN EASTON: PART 2 - Branding, Pricing&Choosing A Team from 2019-01-28T08:00

Do you know how important branding yourself and your events is? On today’s show, our guest will go more in-depth on this topic as well her perspective on choosing...

122 THE NEXT LEVEL: Julie Novack, PartySlate from 2019-01-23T08:00

Today we discuss Julie Novack, CEO and Co-Founder of PartySlate and some of the ways in which she has created such a successful business that is still very much i...

121 JULIE NOVACK: PartySlate&Building A Venture-Capital Backed Business from 2019-01-21T08:00

There are many digital platforms that provide inspiration for designing and organizing events, however, PartySlate is an especially curated platform, using images...

120 THE NEXT LEVEL: Brett Culp: Obstacle Or Opportunity from 2019-01-14T10:00

Do you allow opportunities to enter your life? Some do not know an opportunity when it comes to them. Today we hear how you need to maximize opportunities and discuss the interview with Brett Cu...

119 BRETT CULP: Obstacle Or Opportunity from 2019-01-14T08:00

What does leadership mean to you? Leadership has many meanings, and everyone may have their own perspective on it. Today’s guest has a wonderful point of view on ...

118 THE NEXT LEVEL: Amy Moeller: Editor-In-Chief, Washingtonian Weddings from 2019-01-07T10:00

In today's episode, Andy is joined by guest co-host Michele Hodges of Michele Hodges Events. They discuss Andy's interview with Amy Moeller and pull out some of the highlights.

Andy and M...

117 AMY MOELLER: Editor-In-Chief, Washingtonian Weddings from 2019-01-07T08:00

Want your wedding featured in a magazine? Real weddings are becoming more popular to feature in magazines, whether online or on the printed version. Today’s guest...

116 THE NEXT LEVEL: Lynn Easton: Destination Weddings with a Classic Touch, Part 1 from 2018-12-31T10:00

Join Andy and guest co-host, Julie Sabatino of The Stylish Bride, as they discuss Lynn Easton's amazing interview. It's easy to admire Lynn's business, but don't let her calm demeanor make you t...

115 REVISIT LYNN EASTON: Destination Weddings with a Classic Touch, Part 1 from 2018-12-31T08:00

REVISIT: Lynn Easton is a busy woman. Between managing her destination wedding design business Easton Events and growing her Easton Porter Group luxury properties, she’s got a lot of balls in th...

114 THE NEXT LEVEL: Sylvia Weinstock: The Queen Of Cakes from 2018-12-17T10:00

Join Andy and guest co-host, Sean Low as they dig deeper into Sylvia Weinstock's interview. Both Andy and Sean know Sylvia very well and they are still just blown away by her story.

Andy ...

113 REVISIT SYLVIA WEINSTOCK: The Queen Of Cakes from 2018-12-17T08:00

REVISIT: It’s hard to overstate how glad I am to share my conversation with Sylvia Weinstock with you. I a...

112 THE NEXT LEVEL: David Stark: Creativity in Design, Creativity in Business from 2018-12-10T10:00

Andy and first-time co-host Cindy Novotny, of Master Connection Associates, discuss the incredible interview with David Stark. David opens up about his business and his business structure. David...

111 REVISIT DAVID STARK: Creativity in Design, Creativity in Business from 2018-12-10T08:00

REVISIT: “You’re only as good as your last party.” This old adage is something that renowned event producer and designer David Stark holds in high regard. David h...

110 THE NEXT LEVEL: Phillip Van Nostrand: Photography&Designing Your Lifestyle from 2018-12-03T10:00

Just in time for Engage!, Andy and Melissa are discussing all of the best networking techniques to make you stand out among your competition. The topic of today's episode comes from lessons lear...

109 PHILLIP VAN NOSTRAND: Photography&Designing Your Lifestyle from 2018-12-03T08:00

Has your religion influenced you through your whole life? On today’s show that is just the case as our guest grew up in a Christian family with good clean fun all...

108 KIMI WERNER: Trusting Your Inner Voice from 2018-11-26T08:00

In today's conversation, Andy talks with Kimi Werner, the U.S. National Spearfishing Champion of 2008 who transformed her passion for discovery and the sea to ins...

107 THE NEXT LEVEL: Alison Hotchkiss Rinderknecht: Maintaining Balance Within The Adventure from 2018-11-19T10:00

Join Andy and Melissa Fancy as they dissect the lesson from Alison Hotchkiss Rinderknecht, of Alison Events. Alison has been named one of the top wedding planners in the world by Vogue Magazine ...

106 ALISON HOTCHKISS RINDERKNECHT: Maintaining Balance Within The Adventure from 2018-11-19T08:00

Have you ever wondered how can you work and travel the world at the same time? Today’s guest not only does just that, but also excels in her industry planning and...

105 THE NEXT LEVEL: Robert Fountain: Forging Your Own Path from 2018-11-12T10:00

Join Andy and his co-host, Melissa Fancy as they discuss the many unique aspects of Robert Fountain's business that was discussed in the full interview. Robert isn't worried about what anyone el...

104 ROBERT FOUNTAIN: Forging Your Own Path from 2018-11-12T08:00

Have you ever felt the satisfaction of reorganizing the furniture in your home?  Today’s guest, is quite familiar with that feeling, in fact, he’s been redesignin...

103 THE NEXT LEVEL: Paula LeDuc: Fine Catering, Design, Emotion and Relationships from 2018-11-05T10:00

In this episode, Andy and Melissa pull out their favorite parts of the Paula LeDuc interview. Paula was such a unique guest, and she's done amazing things in her niche, so there was a lot of gro...

102 PAULA LEDUC: Fine Catering, Design, Emotion and Relationships from 2018-11-05T08:00

Did you grow up knowing what you wanted to do with your life? Most people change their minds multiple times before they decide on their career. Today’s guest grew...

101 THE NEXT LEVEL: Kelly McLeskey&Nancy Liu Chin – Oh So Inspired from 2018-10-29T09:00

In today's episode of THE NEXT LEVEL, Andy and guest co-host Sean Low really take a deep dive into the interview with the ladies behind the Oh So Inspired Conference. There's a lot this duo cove...

100 KELLY MCLESKEY&NANCY LIU CHIN – Oh So Inspired from 2018-10-29T07:00

On today’s show, we hear from Kelly McLeskey-Dolata and Nancy Liu Chin, Co-Founders of Oh So Inspired. Each successful in their own right, Kelly in planning and D...

99 THE NEXT LEVEL: Andrè Maier: Photography from the Heart from 2018-10-22T09:00

In this episode of THE NEXT LEVEL, Andy and Melissa come together to dive into Andrè Maier's interview. Andrè is a wedding photojournalist and his path to success has been anything but conventio...

98 ANDRE MAIER: Photography from the Heart from 2018-10-22T07:00

Have you ever felt stifled by the exactness and predictability of your chosen career? Today’s guest spent years studying science, such as molecular biology and or...

97 THE NEXT LEVEL: Jennifer Zabinski: High-Touch Planning from 2018-10-15T09:00

In this episode, Andy and Melissa discuss Andy's interview with Jennifer Zabinski, of JZ Events. Jennifer's interview presented so many tangible takeaways for other Designers, so listen in and l...

96 JENNIFER ZABINSKI: High-Touch Planning from 2018-10-15T07:00

This week’s episode features  Jennifer Zabinski of JZ Events. Jennifer is a dedicated and talented wedding planner, known for being cool under pressure, great wit...

95 THE NEXT LEVEL: Ceci Johnson: Designing Stationery, Lifestyle and Business from 2018-10-08T09:00

On today's show, Andy has Sean Low joining as a guest co-host. Today's episode focuses on all of the nuggets that can be extracted from Ceci Johnson's interview. Ceci has an incredibly creative ...

94 CECI JOHNSON: Designing Stationery, Lifestyle and Business from 2018-10-08T07:00

This episode features Ceci Johnson of Ceci New York. We have the privilege to listen to how Ceci built her business from the ground up. Ceci of New York is an art...

93 THE NEXT LEVEL: Ines and Veronica Di Santo: Bridal Couture Brilliance from 2018-10-01T09:00

On today's show, Andy and Melissa are joined by Julie Sabatino of The Stylish Bride podcast on The Wedding Biz Network. Today's discussion centers on Ines and Veronica DiSanto's show.

In ...

92 INES AND VERONICA DI SANTO: Bridal Couture Brilliance from 2018-10-01T07:00

On today’s show we hear from Ines and Veronica of Ines Di Santo, a bridal and evening gown couture dress designer. We learn how Ines grew up with the deep creativ...

91 THE NEXT LEVEL: Pablo Oliveira: Combining Business Savvy with Impeccable Design from 2018-09-24T09:00

In today's episode of THE NEXT LEVEL, Andy and Melissa join forces to discuss all of the amazing insights from Pablo Oliveira's episode. Pablo has a unique niche in the wedding industry and he's...

90 PABLO OLIVEIRA: Combining Business Savvy with Impeccable Design from 2018-09-24T07:00

Pablo Oliveira’s work is so elegant and sophisticated, his portfolio images alone are a feast for the eyes. Nuage Designs, the name of Pablo’s company, is growing internationally. From royal wed...

89 THE NEXT LEVEL: Preston Bailey: Part 2 Interview from 2018-09-17T09:00

In this episode of THE NEXT LEVEL, Andy and Melissa are focused on the most impactful parts of Preston Bailey's second interview with Andy. Preston has been in the wedding business almost 40 yea...

88 PRESTON BAILEY - Part 2 Interview from 2018-09-17T07:00

On today’s show, we get to hear from Preston Bailey with a brand new conversation to follow up from the first time we had him on the show. Preston was named one o...

87 THE NEXT LEVEL: Abby + Tait Larson: Saving Style Me Pretty from 2018-09-10T09:00

In this episode of THE NEXT LEVEL, Andy and Melissa are breaking down lessons learned from Abby and Tait Larsen of Style Me Pretty. 

Abby and Tait have had a journey that most bloggers wi...

86 ABBY + TAIT LARSON: Saving Style Me Pretty from 2018-09-10T07:00

To get the full scoop on one of the hottest topics in the world of wedding inspiration, we are invited into the home of Abby & Tait Larson to learn more about the...

85 THE NEXT LEVEL: Bryan Rafanelli: Part 1 - Telling Clients’ Stories Through Event Design from 2018-09-03T09:00

Today's episode of THE NEXT LEVEL is a very special one! For the first time in TNL history, we have a guest co-host. Since Melissa Fancy is on vacation, Andy has the incredibly smart and insight...

84 REVISIT BRYAN RAFANELLI: Part 1 - Telling Clients’ Stories Through Event Design from 2018-09-03T07:00

REVISIT: If you’ve ever felt family pressure to pursue a certain career, then you can relate to today’s guest. When he realized the careers his family had chosen ...

83 THE NEXT LEVEL: Cindy Novotny: Mastering Motivation from 2018-08-27T09:00

Buckle your seat belts because this episode of THE NEXT LEVEL is quite a ride. Andy and Melissa dig deeper into the amazing interview with Cindy Novotny and this show is full of actionable items...

82 CINDY NOVOTNY: Mastering Motivation from 2018-08-27T07:00

As anyone knows, sometimes we need a little motivation, a push in the right direction. Maybe we’re not as focused as we need to be and just need someone to motiva...

81 THE NEXT LEVEL: Norma Cohen: Building A Thriving Business Within A Community from 2018-08-20T09:00

In today's episode, Andy and Melissa dig into the interview with Norma Cohen. If you haven't listened to Norma's full interview, you definitely should go back and listen.

Norma is a very ...

80 NORMA COHEN: Building A Thriving Business Within A Community from 2018-08-20T07:00

If there’s anyone who knows all the ins and outs of party planning, it’s Norma Cohen. Norma started planning parties on her own for her friends when she was only ...

79 THE NEXT LEVEL: Julie Sabatino: The Stylish Bride from 2018-08-13T09:00

This episode of THE NEXT LEVEL is all about brides! Well, actually Julie Sabatino is all about brides and as the creator of The Stylish Bride, she performs a valuable service for brides.

...

78 JULIE SABATINO: The Stylish Bride from 2018-08-13T07:00

On the most important day of a couple’s life,, family and friends gather to share a moment with two people committing their lives to one another.

 <...

77 THE NEXT LEVEL: Michele Hodges: Building a Referral Based Business from 2018-08-06T09:00

In this episode of THE NEXT LEVEL, Andy and Melissa unpack all of the lessons from Michele Hodges show. Michele shared exactly the steps she goes through when she plans an event, and then she al...

76 MICHELE HODGES: Building A Successful Referral Based Business from 2018-08-06T07:00

The way the world runs today, it often feels as if it's impossible to make it in the Wedding Business without a strong social media presence as well as participating in a plethora of networking ...

75 THE NEXT LEVEL: Christian Oth: Innovative Wedding Photojournalism from 2018-07-30T09:00

We know it isn't just luck that separates the most successful entrepreneurs in our industry from the rest of the pack. Success leaves clues and we are uncovering those clues to success on every ...

74 CHRISTIAN OTH: Innovative Wedding Photojournalism from 2018-07-30T07:00

As any Creative knows, getting started can be a challenge. Christian Oth is no stranger to the effort that goes into success. He moved to New York City when he wa...

73 THE NEXT LEVEL: Roy Yamaguchi: Cuisine, Culture&Community from 2018-07-23T09:00

In today's episode, Andy and Melissa dive a little deeper into Chef Roy Yamaguchi's interview on The Wedding Biz. Roy is our first Chef to appear on the show and he really brought the value.

72 CHEF ROY YAMAGUCHI: Cuisine, Culture&Community from 2018-07-23T07:00

On today’s episode, Andy shares with us the honor of sitting down with renowned Chef Roy Yamaguchi, as he shares his story. Chef Roy shares his experiences from coming to the United States for t...

71 THE NEXT LEVEL: Mindy Weiss: Setting the Standard from 2018-07-16T09:00

In this episode of The Next Level, Andy and Melissa unpack all the lessons and strategies that Mindy Weiss shared in her interview. Mindy was so open with her knowledge and she gave some very sp...

70 MINDY WEISS: Setting the Standard from 2018-07-16T07:00

Mindy Weiss is a force in the high-end wedding and event planning business. Since her early beginnings, she has delighted celebrity and non-celebrity clients alik...

69 THE NEXT LEVEL: Mark Held: A Lifetime Of Floral Innovation from 2018-07-09T09:00

Considering the incredible success Mark Held has had by focusing on doing one thing - flowers - and doing them better than anyone else, it's no surprise that Andy and Melissa are able to extract...

68 MARK HELD: A Lifetime Of Floral Innovation from 2018-07-09T07:00

Mark Held didn’t originally see himself as a florist. His first arrangement-- a project assigned to him at summer camp as a young boy-- turned out to be poison iv...

67 THE NEXT LEVEL: Preston Bailey: Designer for the Ages, Part 1 from 2018-07-02T09:00

Andy and Melissa take a second listen to Preston Bailey's interview about his design process. There's so much that can be learned from Preston's interview!

In this episode, Melissa and An...

66 REVISIT PRESTON BAILEY: Designer for the Ages, Part 1 from 2018-07-02T07:00

REVISIT: The year is 1980. The place is New York City. And the person is Preston Bailey, who at the time was just looking for a way to pay the bills and not get evicted from his apartment. What ...

65 THE NEXT LEVEL: Stephanie Bradshaw: Dynamically Branding Your Business&Events from 2018-06-25T09:00

Today, Melissa and Andy are recording this episode of TNL from the Engage! Conference in Banff, Canada! Listen in as Andy answers a listener question that may also be a question you’ve been wond...

64 STEPHANIE BRADSHAW: Dynamically Branding Your Business&Events from 2018-06-25T07:00

Stephanie Bradshaw has more than just impeccable taste, she has a knack for project management and has a very diverse business portfolio-which in our opinion has ...

63 REVISIT EDWIN MCCAIN: Creative Hit Wedding Songs from 2018-06-18T07:00

REVISIT: This week, Andy talks with the artist behind three enormously-popular wedding songs—Edwin McCain. His hit songs “I’ll Be” and “I Could Not Ask For More” are both favori...

62 THE NEXT LEVEL: Tara Dowburd, Makeup Therapy: "Achieving Success in the Client Experience" from 2018-06-11T09:00

This episode of The Next Level dives deeper into the interview with Tara Dowburd. You may be wondering what a makeup designer can tell you about your business, but Tara is full of great ideas. Listen

61 TARA DOWBURD, MAKEUP THERAPY: "Achieving Success in the Client Experience" from 2018-06-11T07:00

Tara has always known that creativity needs to be at the center of her career. She’s an artist. What she didn’t expect was that makeup would be her medium. But af...

60 THE NEXT LEVEL: Kevin Lee, Celebrity Event Designer: Dedication and Finding the Flair from 2018-06-04T09:00

Join Andy and Melissa for today's Next Level episode, where they break down the amazing interview with Kevin Lee. Kevin sat down with Andy and shared his story of coming to the US and in the pro...

59 KEVIN LEE, CELEBRITY EVENT DESIGNER: Dedication and Finding the Flair from 2018-06-04T07:00

Wedding Biz - Kevin Lee

Kevin Lee loves living a glamorous lifestyle, and he’s proved time and time again, he’s will...

58 REVISIT: Rebecca Grinnals&Kathryn Arce, Engaging Concepts from 2018-05-28T07:00

REVISIT: Rebecca Grinnals and Kathryn Arce are powerhouse team is the force behind the wedding and honeymoon industry consulting firm Engaging Concepts. In this episode, we talk about their road...

57 THE NEXT LEVEL: Harmony Walton - The Bridal Bar and Jet Fete from 2018-05-21T09:00

Join Andy Kushner and Melissa Fancy as they digest the value-packed episode with Harmony Walton! 

Tune into this episode to get some major insight on how to maintain a creative and flouri...

56 HARMONY WALTON: The Bridal Bar and Jet Fete from 2018-05-21T07:00

It takes but a moment to see that Harmony Walton’s path to success had everything to do with how she handled perceived challenges along the way. Her career is marked by her own fearless ability ...

55 THE STAR-STUDDED ANNIVERSARY SHOW: Celebrating One Year of The Wedding Biz from 2018-05-14T07:00

It hardly seems possible that today’s show is the celebration of the One Year Anniversary of The Wedding Biz podcast! When Andy started the show a year ago, he began as a passion project, but si...

54 THE NEXT LEVEL: David Tutera: Finding True Success in Self-Reinvention from 2018-05-07T09:00

In this companion episode of David Tutera's interview, Andy and Melissa Fancy take a deeper dive into the strategies that David shared.

David insists that you don't have to love your clie...

53 DAVID TUTERA: Finding True Success in Self-Reinvention from 2018-05-07T07:00

If you’ve heard of David Tutera, you know he’s done it all.  He’s a leading expert in the wedding and entertaining business with a list of accomplishments almost ...

52 THE NEXT LEVEL: Lisa Gooder, Brides Magazine: The Passion of Storytelling from 2018-04-30T09:00

Join The Wedding Biz host, Andy Kushner and Marketing Director Melissa Fancy as they break down Lisa Gooder's interview. Lisa Gooder is the Executive Director of Brides Magazine. 

Andy an...

51 LISA GOODER, BRIDES MAGAZINE: The Passion of Storytelling from 2018-04-30T07:00

Lisa Gooder was always passionate about telling stories. No matter the workplace-- from artifact appraisals to digital media, to Lisa, the way a story could connect others and draw interest were...

50 RAYSHUN LAMARR: The Voice Finalist Who Honed His Talents as a Wedding Entertainer from 2018-04-23T07:00

49 JOSE VILLA: Redefining Success with Fine Art Wedding Photography from 2018-04-16T07:00

Initially, Jose’s parents were nervous about him becoming a photographer. As recent US immigrants, they didn’t think his dreams of making money in portrait photography would come to fruition and...

48 RON BEN-ISRAEL: Answering the Call of Creativity with Couture Cakes from 2018-04-09T07:00

To Ron Ben-Israel, a cake is far more than a cake. It’s equal to a performance. And if anyone knows about performance, it’s surprisingly the master of couture cel...

47 PETER CALLAHAN: Embracing Creativity to Lead an Inspired Life from 2018-04-02T07:00

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 undergra...

46 SIMON T. BAILEY: How To Harness Your Brilliance and Turbo Charge Your Business from 2018-03-26T07:00

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. ...

45 TROY WILLIAMS: Fearlessly Paving His Own Path to Celebrity Event Planner Success from 2018-03-19T07:00

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 persistenc...

44 IAN PROSSER: Internationally Acclaimed Floral Designer with an Elite Clientele from 2018-03-12T07:00

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 apprenticeshi...

43 EDDIE ZARATSIAN: Experiential Events to Delight the Senses from 2018-03-05T08:00

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 fre...

42 EQUALLY WED: Kirsten&Maria’s Revolutionary Online Guide to Planning a LGBTQ+ Wedding from 2018-02-26T08:00

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...

41 SEAN LOW: The Business of Being Creative from 2018-02-19T08:00

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 f...

40 NIKKI KHAN: Creating Exquisite South Asian Weddings from 2018-02-12T09:01:16

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-b...

39 PAULINE PARRY: The Masterful Orchestration of Good Gracious Events from 2018-02-05T08:00:49

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...

38 WOMBI ROSE: Shark Tank, LovePop&Inspiration from 2018-01-29T11:00:37

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 car...

37 DEBBIE GELLER: Creating Legacy Clients from 2018-01-22T11:00:59

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 partn...

36 MINDY RICE OF MINDY RICE DESIGN: Creating Feelings Instead of Just Events from 2018-01-15T08:00:54

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 ...

35 THE KNOT, CARLEY RONEY&ANJA WINIKKA: Empowering Employees + Building Innovation Into the DNA of Your Business from 2018-01-08T08:00:47

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! F...

34 EDGAR ZAMORA: Transformer of Spaces from 2018-01-01T08:00:11

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 pri...

33 CLAUDIA HANLIN: From Bride to Wedding Planner from 2017-12-25T08:00:07

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...

32 SHARON SACKS: The Magic of Making Memories from 2017-12-18T08:00:25

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 inclu...

31 DAVID MERRELL: Businessman to Award Winning Event Planner from 2017-12-11T08:00:14

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 soun...

30 THE TRAVEL SIBLINGS: Experiential Destination Travel from 2017-12-04T08:00:41

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 privat...

29 DARCY MILLER: Martha Stewart Weddings&Self-Made Designer from 2017-11-27T08:00:58

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. H...

28 MICHELLE RAGO: Weddings Around the Globe from 2017-11-20T08:00:47

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...

27 ANGELA DESVEAUX: Editor-in-Chief of WedLuxe Media from 2017-11-13T08:00:56

Angela Desveaux is the founder, publisher, and Editor-in-Chief of WedLuxe Media, which includes her print and online magazines, a trendsetting blog, a wedding show, an online boutique, and many ...

26 KRISTIN BANTA: Upending Wedding Traditions from 2017-11-06T08:00:47

Just because something is tradition doesn’t mean you can’t play by your own rules. For Kristin Banta, that’s the name of the event designing game. From her youth to present, Kristin has always m...

25 JES GORDON: Bringing Personality to Every Event from 2017-10-30T07:00:54

How do you truly entertain without boundaries? Just ask event designer, producer, and planner Jes Gordon. Designing and planning events that are constantly pushing creative and innovative limits...

24 VALERIE ROMANOFF: Personalized Event Entertainment from 2017-10-23T07:00:54

Valerie Romanoff has had music in her veins since she was a little girl of two years old. Her love of melodies, guitar, and learning all kinds of music has propelled her into the world of high-e...

23 LYNN EASTON: Destination Weddings with a Classic Touch from 2017-10-16T07:00:53

Lynn Easton is a busy woman. Between managing her destination wedding design business Easton Events and growing her Easton Porter Group luxury properties, she’s got a lot of balls in the air. Bu...

22 PRESTON BAILEY: Designer for the Ages from 2017-10-09T07:00:59

The year is 1980. The place is New York City. And the person is Preston Bailey, who at the time was just looking for a way to pay the bills and not get evicted from his apartment. What started a...

21 RODNEY BAILEY: Capturing Genuine Moments from 2017-10-02T07:00:23

Rodney Bailey bought his first camera at 12 years old, saving up all his money from a summer of mowing lawns to pay for it. He got his first gig photographing a friend’s sister’s wedding at age ...

20 TARA GUÉRARD: Wedding Designer with a Southern Flair from 2017-09-25T07:00:32

Southern charm and Tara Guérard are synonymous with each other. Add weddings to the mix, and you’ve got one of the most highly respected wedding designers in the business. Tara’s business, Tara ...

19 VALERIE GERNHAUSER: Empowering Wedding Planners from 2017-09-18T07:00:26

Valerie Gernhauser is no stranger to unfortunate circumstances. The timing of her professional career landed amidst Hurricane Katrina, the financial banking crisis of 2009, and the economic down...

18 SHAWNA GOHEL: Maharani Weddings from 2017-09-11T07:00:59

Shawna Gohel is a pretty big deal in the Indian wedding community. Her site, Maharani Weddings, boasts 800,000 visitors every month. Shawna and her team has published over 10,000 articles on Ind...

17 RITA BLOOM: Pioneer of Wedding Planning and Design from 2017-09-04T07:00:14

To say Rita Bloom is the pioneer of the wedding planning business would be an understatement. Rita’s story of discovering an entire industry need and growing her business is one of amazement and...

16 ELLEN WELDON: The Art of Calligraphy, Invitations,&More from 2017-08-28T07:00:34

Would you ever expect an industry lauded calligrapher to have gotten an F in handwriting? For Ellen Weldon, that black mark ignited a lifelong passion for handwritten designs. Ellen’s portfolio ...

15 DAVID STARK: Creativity in Design, Creativity in Business from 2017-08-21T07:00:09

“You’re only as good as your last party.” This old adage is something that renowned event producer and designer David Stark holds in high regard. David has produced events for noteworthy celebri...

14 CHRISTIE NARVAEZ: One Bride’s Wedding from 2017-08-14T07:00:05

Christie Narvaez is an entertainer who's worn many hats—actress, producer, comedian, and more. Today, Andy talks with her about her latest roles: Wife and mother. In a first for The Wedding Biz,...

13 MARC ELIOT: Design, Music&Cipriani’s from 2017-08-07T07:00:35

Marc Eliot is Founder and CCO (Chief Creative Officer) of swoop, a New York-based design studio for upscale luxury celebrations for weddings, social events, and corporate events alike. swoop is ...

12 ASHFER BIJU: Culinary Artist, Executive Chef at The Pierre New York from 2017-07-31T07:00:16

In today’s conversation, Andy talks with Ashfer Biju, the executive chef and food and beverage director at the iconic The Pierre, A Taj Hotel in New York City, responsible for all things culinar...

11 COLIN COWIE: Creating Groundbreaking Luxury Experiences from 2017-07-24T07:00:54

Colin Cowie is a top designer for all things weddings—as well as galas, charitable events, corporate and destination celebrations. He's beloved by the likes of Oprah, Jerry Seinfeld, Elton John,...

10 JOANNE BROWN: Queen Of Caribbean Destination Weddings from 2017-07-17T07:00:47

When planning a dream-come-true wedding on an island getaway, only one name immediately comes to mind: JoAnne Brown. In this week's conversation, Andy talks to the go-to planner for weddings in ...

9 ANDY MARCUS: A Life in Wedding Photography from 2017-07-10T07:00:59

As the second of three generations to uphold the Fred Marcus Studio brand, Andy Marcus has grown into his status as one of the rare few wedding photography legends, with his son, Brian, poised t...

8 BILL SPINNER: Director of Sales&Catering at The Pierre New York from 2017-07-03T07:00:57

An icon of the hospitality industry, Bill Spinner was literally born into it—as a young man, he first learned what it means to make people's experiences special by doing everything that needed t...

7 RICK DAVIS&CHRISTOPHER VAZQUEZ: Event Magic from 2017-06-26T07:01:59

In this episode, Andy talks with with Rick and Chris about what initially inspired them to do event design and production, how they keep their inspirational wellsprings replenished, and the joys...

6 EDWIN MCCAIN: His Hit Wedding Songs from 2017-06-19T07:01:01

This week, Andy talks with the artist behind three enormously-popular wedding songs—Edwin McCain. His songs "I'll Be" and "I Could Not Ask For More" are both favorite "first dance" songs, and hi...

5 BRYAN RAFANELLI: Telling Clients’ Stories Through Event Design from 2017-06-12T07:01:34

Bryan Rafanelli’s exquisite sense of style, attention to detail and ability to transform clients’ visions into unforgettable celebrations have made him a go-to planner for the nation’s most excl...

4 MATTHEW ROBBINS: Creative Process and Connecting with Couples from 2017-06-04T07:01:15

Matthew Robbins generously shares his process for creating events that resonate, and how he connects with clients to make that happen. We also talk about balancing work and personal lives, which...

3 DAVID BEAHM: Risk&Synchronicity from 2017-05-29T07:01:36

David Beahm, world-class wedding designer and planner, known for his inventive work and trademark lavish flower creations, has designed countless weddings for society, high profile and discernin...

2 SYLVIA WEINSTOCK: The Queen of Cakes from 2017-05-17T07:03:34

Sylvia Weinstock reinvented the tradition of the wedding cake. In this episode I talk with Sylvia about her amazing life and career in the wedding business, her philosophy on both, and about thi...

1 REBECCA GRINNALS&KATHRYN ARCE: Engaging Concepts from 2017-05-17T07:01:03

Rebecca Grinnals and Kathryn Arce are powerhouse team is the force behind the wedding and honeymoon industry consulting firm Engaging Concepts. In this episode, we talk about their road from the...

Welcome from Andy Kushner from 2017-05-12T07:00:44

A welcome to the podcast, from creator and host Andy Kushner.