Mind Your Wedding Business Podcast

Kevin Dennis
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The Mind Your Wedding Business Podcast provides actionable strategies and resources for business-minded wedding professionals who love love — but also care about their bottom line. Host and owner of the WeddingIQ blog, Kevin Dennis, welcomes industry experts to each episode to share their best advice, biggest mistakes, and proven strategies for business growth and client satisfaction. Kevin brings his own share of industry knowledge to the table. He is the founder of lighting and A/V company, Fantasy Sound Event Services, as well as a national speaker and regular contributor to B2B publications across the event industry. He has served on the board for the Foundation of NACE, NACE Silicon Valley, and WIPA. He is also the founder of the Tri-Valley Wedding Professionals Networking Group. Tune in each week to learn about sales, marketing, client service, event technology, and more — all with the intention to help wedding professionals grow their businesses and achieve their goals. 

  1. 2D AGO

    What Niche Wedding Vendors Wish the Industry Knew with Brittany Branson

    What does it take to build a thriving business in a niche corner of the wedding industry? And what lessons can every wedding pro (no matter their service) take from it? In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin sits down with Brittany Branson, a destination live wedding painter and creative coach, to unpack the marketing strategies that helped her turn a little-known service into a sustainable business. From selling herself before the art to leveraging unique personal assets, Brittany shares how niche vendors can stand out, grow, and stay relevant as competition intensifies. They delve into what the wedding industry often misunderstands about niche services, why novelty alone won’t sustain a business, and how strategy and storytelling create lasting impact. Brittany also opens up about facing the challenges of comparison in a social media-driven world, making values part of your brand, and showing clients the person behind the service. Highlights: Why niche vendors have an initial advantage, and what happens when the novelty fadesThe most important marketing lesson Brittany has learned in 10 years of live paintingHow to lean into your personal assets and values to build trust and connectionWhat the industry gets wrong about niche vendors, and what Brittany wishes more people understoodWhy “selling yourself first” applies to every wedding professional, no matter the serviceHow transparency, storytelling, and education can set you apart in a crowded market Whether you’re a planner, DJ, florist, or niche creative, this episode is packed with practical insights on building a brand that lasts and standing out for more than just what you sell. Connect with Brittany: Website Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Connect with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram YouTube TikTok LinkedIn

    38 min

  2. AUG 19

    How to Build a Cohesive Wedding Brand Across Multiple Businesses with Raman Bains

    What happens when your passion project grows into multiple businesses? For many wedding pros, diversification is no longer optional; it’s the future. In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin sits down with Raman Bains—CEO of R&R Event Rentals and Creative Director of Brownstone Gardens—to talk about integrating two wedding businesses into one seamless brand. From daydreaming about opening a venue to managing the realities of décor rentals, Raman shares what it’s really like to expand beyond your core business. They explore why more professionals are diversifying in today’s evolving industry, the surprises that come with stepping into a new sector, and the strategies that make balancing two businesses possible without burning out. Raman also opens up about building a cohesive brand identity, making both companies work together without confusing clients, and how smart marketing and education can create a seamless experience for couples. Highlights: Why more wedding pros are expanding their services and venturesThe unexpected realities and lessons of running both a décor company and a venueHow to balance staffing, inventory, and operations across multiple businessesWays to build a brand identity that’s cohesive, but not confusingMarketing and education strategies that position your offerings clearly for clientsWhy being vendor-friendly pays off in buzz, referrals, and loyalty Whether you’re considering adding a new service, opening a venue, or simply curious about what it takes to scale, this conversation will help you see diversification as both a challenge and an opportunity. Connect with Raman: Website ~ R&R Event Rentals Website ~ Brownstone Gardens Instagram ~ R&R Event Rentals Instagram ~ Brownstone Gardens Connect with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram YouTube TikTok LinkedIn

    39 min

  3. AUG 13

    The Book More Weddings Summit: Your Free Ticket to What's Working Right Now with Heidi Thompson

    What’s actually working right now to book more weddings? Let’s find out. In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin sits down with wedding business coach, marketing strategist, and best-selling author Heidi Thompson to pull back the curtain on her signature event: the Book More Weddings Summit. If leads have slowed down, inquiries are ghosting you, and bookings feel harder to close, you’re not alone, and you’re not imagining it. The wedding industry is shifting, and what used to work just isn’t cutting it anymore. That’s why Heidi has gathered over 45 experts across five learning tracks to share proven, right-now strategies for standing out, attracting ideal clients, and creating a steady stream of bookings—without working 60+ hours a week. From AI tools to referral strategies, high-paying clients to systems that save you time, the Book More Weddings Summit is designed to help wedding pros in every category—planners, photographers, DJs, florists, venues, and more—take clear, actionable steps to get results now. And the best part? It’s completely free to attend. Highlights: Why the booking slowdown is happening and how to adapt to itThe five learning tracks covering everything from lead generation to systemsHow to stand out without slashing your prices or burning outWhy “doing all the things” isn’t the answer, and focusing on the right strategies isThe power of learning from 46+ industry experts with diverse perspectivesHow the Summit format lets you learn at your pace and on your scheduleWhy this year’s event is the most robust and action-packed yet Whether you’ve been in the industry two years or twenty, this online conference will give you a preview of what’s possible when you stop guessing, start applying what’s working now, and learn from the best in the business. 🎟️ The Book More Weddings Summit runs August 18–22 and is completely free to attend. Grab your ticket here and get ready to book more of the clients you love! Connect with Heidi:  Free Ticket  Website  Instagram  Connect with Kevin:  Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram YouTube TikTok LinkedIn

    30 min

  4. AUG 12

    Adapting Your Wedding Business to the Changing Climate with Jamie Chang

    What does climate change have to do with your wedding business? More than you think. In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin sits down with Jamie Chang, destination wedding planner and founder of Mango Muse Events, to talk about what it means to future-proof your business in the face of a changing climate. From orange skies to overheated team members, Jamie shares her firsthand experiences with extreme weather and why it’s time for wedding professionals to rethink how we plan, protect, and show up for our clients, our teams, and the planet. Together, they explore the business case for sustainability, the health realities of working in extreme heat, and the simple swaps that can reduce your impact while improving your client experience. Highlights: What climate change really looks like in weddings todayWhy adapting to extreme weather starts with internal business auditsSmall shifts that reduce your carbon footprint and boost efficiencyHow to care for your team’s health and safety onsiteThe surprising link between sustainability and long-term resilienceWhat younger generations expect and why vendors can’t ignore itWays to start making climate-conscious choices How to stand out by aligning your business values with your operationsWhy “pretty and sustainable” is the new gold standard Whether you’re a planner, florist, rental company, or DJ, this conversation will challenge you to think beyond the timeline—and embrace change as a tool for growth, impact, and a better future for everyone in the industry. Connect with Jamie: Website Instagram LinkedIn Connect with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram YouTube TikTok LinkedIn

    44 min

  5. AUG 11

    LIVE From NACE Experience: More Voices, More Stories, More NACE

    We told you we'd be back! In the second live episode of Mind Your Wedding Business from NACE Experience 2025, Kevin is back on the mic for Day Two in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (aka MKE), with honorary co-host, Michelle Stansfield, chatting with even more industry leaders, chapter trailblazers, and conference MVPs. From teleprompter drama to bold ideas for the future of NACE, this episode dives deep into the conversations, laughs, and lightbulb moments happening on the conference floor. Whether you’re a first-time attendee, a seasoned NACE pro, or just curious about what really goes on behind the scenes, this part-two episode delivers connection, inspiration, and plenty of conference buzz. Highlights: The friendly rivalries fueling chapter growthHow students are shaping the next generation of event prosFundraising wins, scholarships, and the Foundation’s big goalsThe magic of chapter shirts, cowbells, and showing up as a teamWhy sustainable swaps aren’t as simple as they seem—but matter more than everFrom prosciutto debates to New Orleans excitement: planning for 2026 Enjoy this behind-the-scenes look at NACE Experience! Connect with our Guests: Michelle Stansfield, CPCE, 2025 NACE President, with Terramar Anne Harper, CPCE, Deputy Executive Director at NACE Lawrence Leonard, Executive Director at NACE Jill Vidal-Raines, CPCE, 2025 NACE President Elect, with Elegant Beginnings Inc.  Kelly Dalisa, CPCE, 2025 NACE At-Large Director, with Cort  Sir J Starks, with Your Turn Entertainment Virginia Santa Ines, CPCE, CWIP, CWC, 2025 NACE Foundation Co-Director of Fundraising, with San Jose Marriott Judy Philip, with Beyond  Christie Osborne, with Mountainside Media Mallory Mullen, with Good Shuffle Pro  Connect with Kevin: a...

    1h 8m

  6. AUG 5

    Democratizing Luxury: How To Make Every Client Feel Like A VIP with Kawania Wooten

    We often think luxury has to come with a high price tag, but what if it’s really about how you make people feel? In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin sits down with Kawania Wooten, owner of Howerton + Wooten Events and founder of The Enlightened Creative, to unpack what it truly means to democratize luxury in the wedding industry. From handwritten notes to CRM-powered magic, Kawania shares how thoughtfulness, hospitality, and intentionality can elevate every client experience—no matter their budget. Together, they explore the difference between hospitality and customer service, how to empower your clients (instead of overwhelming them), and the surprising ways technology can help you show up with more heart, not less. Highlights: What “democratizing luxury” actually means and why it mattersThe difference between hospitality and customer service (and how to spot it)Why luxury is a mindset, not a dollar amountHow to make every client feel like a VIP, no matter the service tierSmall touchpoints that leave a big impression (including your voicemail!)Using CRMs, DoorDash, and Instacart to create concierge-level careWhy vendors are your clients too, and how to treat them that wayThe power of being present long after the wedding endsPractical ways to elevate proposals, emails, and client interactionsHow empowering your team to bring the magic can strengthen your brand Whether you're working full-service or “month-of,” this episode will challenge the way you define luxury, and inspire you to build a business rooted in care, connection, and consistency. Connect with Kawania: Website Instagram LinkedIn Connect with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram YouTube TikTok LinkedIn

    42 min

  7. AUG 1

    LIVE From NACE Experience: GSD Energy, Wine Wisdom & Why NACE Matters

    In the very first live episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin brings the podcast to NACE Experience 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin—or as the cool kids call it, MKE. He’s joined by a powerhouse lineup of NACE leaders, past presidents, chapter founders, and an Icon Award winner for a candid, hilarious, and heartfelt look behind the scenes of this year’s conference. From wild conference memories and industry predictions to the importance of building connections, this episode is packed with honest conversations and real insight from the people shaping the future of the events industry. Whether you’re a NACE newbie, a conference vet, or someone wondering what the big deal is about joining an association, this episode is the ultimate crash course on community, leadership, and the get sh*t done spirit that keeps this industry thriving. Highlights: The rise of the Central Coast chapter and its GSD vibesA heartfelt tribute to mentorship, leadership, and legacy in the NACE communityWhy joining an association takes patience, presence, and a few business cardsWine industry facts you didn’t know you needed (and yes, espresso martinis are breakfast drinks now)A peek at the Foundation’s 40th anniversary goals, scholarships, and fundraising successStarting a chapter, building community, and why the first “yes” is the hardest So grab a glass of wine (or root beer, we don’t judge) and settle in for a jam-packed episode filled with laughs, legacy, and the magic of Milwaukee. And stay tuned for part two...coming very soon! Connect with our Guests: Michelle Stansfield, CPCE, 2025 NACE President, with Terramar Holly Holiday with Tar Creek Ranch Terry Shields, CPCE, CSEP, 2025 NACE Foundation Trustee, NACE Hall of Fame Inductee, with Terry Shields Event Design Dana Blaugrund, CPCE, CWC, 2025 NACE Foundation Immediate Past President with Urban Family Concepts Monique Studak, CSW, CSS, NACE ICON Award Winner, with Thirst For Knowledge Dana Kadwell, CPCE, 2025 NACE Secretary/Treasurer, with Anthem House, Hustle & Gather, and Gathered Here Podcast Connect with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound a...

    1h 20m

  8. JUL 29

    The Power of Behind-the-Scenes Content for Wedding Professionals with Sheena Kalso

    We all want to show off the best version of our work, but clients are craving more than just the perfect final photo. They want to see the process, the people, and the real moments that bring a wedding to life. In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin sits down with Sheena Kalso, a 20+ year wedding industry veteran and the founder of Behind Your Scenes, to talk about the power of behind-the-scenes content for wedding professionals. From documenting the messy middle to capturing the magic in motion, Sheena shares why showing your work, in real time and in real ways, builds trust and connection like nothing else. Together, they explore how BTS content can elevate your marketing, make your brand more relatable, and become one of the most valuable sales tools in your business. Highlights: Why behind-the-scenes content builds more trust than a polished portfolioHow to start capturing BTS content without feeling awkwardThe difference between social media content and legacy mediaWhy “pulling back the curtain” helps clients fall in love with your processWhat to do when you're too busy to film yourself How to navigate working alongside photographers and videographersWhy problem-solving moments are pure gold for content and connectionThe real reason face-forward content always performs betterHow to build your “content muscle” through low-pressure InstaStory practice Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode will help you rethink how you show up online and give you the tools to turn everyday work into engaging, trust-building content. Connect with Sheena: Behind Your Scences Instagram LinkedIn Connect with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram YouTube TikTok LinkedIn

    49 min
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About

The Mind Your Wedding Business Podcast provides actionable strategies and resources for business-minded wedding professionals who love love — but also care about their bottom line. Host and owner of the WeddingIQ blog, Kevin Dennis, welcomes industry experts to each episode to share their best advice, biggest mistakes, and proven strategies for business growth and client satisfaction. Kevin brings his own share of industry knowledge to the table. He is the founder of lighting and A/V company, Fantasy Sound Event Services, as well as a national speaker and regular contributor to B2B publications across the event industry. He has served on the board for the Foundation of NACE, NACE Silicon Valley, and WIPA. He is also the founder of the Tri-Valley Wedding Professionals Networking Group. Tune in each week to learn about sales, marketing, client service, event technology, and more — all with the intention to help wedding professionals grow their businesses and achieve their goals. 

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