Wedding Business Solutions

Alan Berg, CSP, FPSA, Global Speaking Fellow
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Nov 11, 2024 • 35min

Don Mamone - Understanding Gender today and in the future!

Don Mamone - Understanding Gender today and in the future!Are your assumptions about others hindering genuine connections? How can you shift from judgment to curiosity to learn more about those around you? In this episode, Don Mamone and I dive into understanding gender, inclusivity, and breaking away from biases rooted in personal experiences. Discover how to create welcoming environments and the significance of personal stories in reshaping societal expectations.Listen to this new episode for insights on fostering inclusivity, understanding diverse identities, and shifting perceptions through curiosity rather than judgment.Get Don’s new book: “Different Doesn't Mean Broken: Living Courageously Outside the Binary” https://amzn.to/3YuyqhJ Connect with Don:https://www.linkedin.com/in/donmamone/https://www.instagram.com/donmamone/https://www.facebook.com/donmamonehttps://www.tiktok.com/@donmamoneAbout Don: Don Mamone is a speaker, identity coach & consultant teaching audiences and clients how to reach their maximum potential & impact by discovering & embracing their true identity and supporting companies dedicated to safe spaces that support unapologetic authenticity.Episode Summary: In this episode of Wedding Business Solutions, I sit down with Don Mamone, a non-binary professional speaker and identity coach, to dive deep into the world of gender identity and inclusivity. Don shares their personal journey of coming out at 45 and the importance of approaching gender with curiosity instead of judgment. We explore the complexities of the LGBTQIA2S+ acronym and offer practical advice for wedding businesses to create more inclusive environments. Through our discussion, you'll hear personal anecdotes and professional insights that emphasize the need for understanding, continuous learning, and proactive inclusivity to foster acceptance and support within our industry. Join us for an eye-opening conversation that aims to make the wedding business a more welcoming place for everyone.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my websiteAI For The Real World - A Practical Guide to AI for Wedding & Event Pros is your easy way to learn how to harness the power of AI, no matter which AI tools you use. Get Yours Today at www.ShopAlanBerg.com  I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 
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Nov 6, 2024 • 8min

Why I'm attending 4 Speaker Conferences this year!

Discover the unexpected perks of attending speaker conferences, even for seasoned pros! Explore how these events can enhance your skills and introduce you to innovative tools like AI. Hear inspiring stories about personal growth and the meaningful connections formed in these settings. Challenge preconceived notions about the costs of attending and learn why investing in yourself can yield incredible long-term benefits. It's time to reassess the value of community engagement for your professional development!
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Oct 30, 2024 • 6min

Who are you ghosting?

Who are you ghosting?Have you ever stopped to think about the people you're ghosting in your inbox? Why do we let certain conversations slip while juggling our daily priorities? In this episode, I dive into the notion that we all ghost someone, not out of disinterest, but because other things take precedence. Could there be a parallel in how your potential clients are ghosting you? Let's explore the reasons behind professional ghosting and how to stay top of mind.Listen to this new 5-minute episode for fresh insights on managing your follow-ups and understanding the true dynamics behind being ghosted.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I delve into the concept of ghosting, not just from a client perspective but from our own as well. I've come to the realization that all of us are ghosting someone, whether intentionally or unintentionally, due to prioritizing other tasks and life's demands. I discuss how effective follow-ups can help you reposition yourself at the top of someone's inbox, increasing your chances of getting a response. I emphasize that ghosting doesn't necessarily mean disinterest and encourage you to reconsider your own communication habits. This episode aims to provide you with valuable insights to enhance your client interactions and follow-up strategies.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/AI For The Real World - A Practical Guide to AI for Wedding & Event Pros is your easy way to learn how to harness the power of AI, no matter which AI tools you use. Get Yours Today at www.ShopAlanBerg.com  I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 
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Oct 28, 2024 • 39min

Ryan Angott & Regine Regencia - Myths and Truths about Virtual Assistants

Ryan Angott & Regine Regencia - Myths and Truths about Virtual AssistantsAre you struggling to find the right fit for your team? Have you considered the impact of language and local dialects on sales? In this episode, we dive into the world of virtual assistants, discussing how to identify the perfect candidate for your business needs. Learn how technology like ChatGPT can help virtual staff emulate local communication styles, making them feel like an integral part of your team. Are you leveraging VAs to not only save costs but also enhance productivity? We explore the importance of clearly delegating tasks and trusting your virtual staff to execute them efficiently.Listen to this new episode for insights on maximizing business efficiency with virtual staff and understanding the value they can add to your operations.About Ryan Angott:Ryan Angott is a seasoned professional with a decade-long journey in the wedding and event industry. With a wealth of experience and a track record of generating over $50 million in revenue, Ryan brings unparalleled insights into the intricacies of the industry as he transitioned and co-founded a virtual assistant staffing agency based in the Philippines. Connect with Ryan directly at Ryan@strategic-assistant.com  or explore the world of virtual assistant services for weddings at https://strategic-assistant.com/wedding-services/  About Regine: Regine, CEO & President of Strategic Assistant Staffing, brings a decade of expertise in virtual assistance. She helps entrepreneurs reclaim 20-30 hours weekly, redefining the virtual workforce from hiring one Virtual Staff to building dream teams. A Christian business leader, devoted mother, and advocate for women, she empowers others to achieve work-life balance while ensuring exceptional service for clients and virtual staff.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  aAI For The Real World - A Practical Guide to AI for Wedding & Event Pros is your easy way to learn how to harness the power of AI, no matter which AI tools you use. Get Yours Today at www.ShopAlanBerg.com  I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 
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Oct 23, 2024 • 10min

That time the wedding company wouldn't get on the phone!

That time the wedding company wouldn't get on the phone!Are you meeting your customers where they are, or are you frustrating them with rigid communication methods? In this episode, I share a recent personal experience from my son’s wedding planning drama, and we explore the importance of adapting to your clients' preferred communication channels. How can refusing to get on the phone with eager customers impact your business? What steps can you take to ensure you're not missing out on potential sales because you're not accommodating?Listen to this new 9-minute episode for key insights on adapting your communication strategies to better meet your customers’ needs and grow your business.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I share a personal story about my son and future daughter-in-law's frustrating experience while planning their wedding. They tried to rent items from a local company but were denied the chance to speak with a representative over the phone. This led me to highlight the importance of meeting customers where they are, whether that means talking over the phone or communicating digitally. I discuss the challenges and missed opportunities businesses face when they fail to adapt to customer preferences. This episode serves as a crucial lesson for wedding professionals on improving customer interactions and sales strategies by accommodating different communication preferences.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.connectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/AI For The Real World - A Practical Guide to AI for Wedding & Event Pros is your easy way to learn how to harness the power of AI, no matter which AI tools you use. Get Yours Today at www.ShopAlanBerg.com  I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 
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Oct 16, 2024 • 15min

So, my son got married. Want to hear the story?

So, my son got married. Want to hear the story? Are you easily accessible to your clients? Are you ensuring seamless communication to prevent day-of issues? In this episode, I share the story of my son's wedding and highlight crucial lessons about the importance of communication and responsiveness in the wedding business. Listen to this new 13-minute episode for insights on improving your client communication and handling unexpected challenges during events. Episode Summary:  In this heartfelt episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I share the story of my son Adam's unique wedding in San Francisco. Unlike traditional ceremonies, this wedding spanned multiple days and featured intimate gatherings, a City Hall ceremony, and memorable activities like a cable car ride and a Hornblower dinner cruise. I highlight noteworthy experiences, both positive and challenging, such as vendor communication issues and special touches like custom whiskey blends. Through this personal recount, I draw valuable lessons on the importance of effective communication and customer service in the wedding industry. Don't miss out on this insightful and inspiring episode! If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com   Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com    View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/ AI For The Real World - A Practical Guide to AI for Wedding & Event Pros is your easy way to learn how to harness the power of AI, no matter which AI tools you use. Get Yours Today at www.ShopAlanBerg.com  I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 
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Oct 14, 2024 • 33min

Irene Katzias - How vendors can play nice together!

Irene Katzias - How vendors can play nice togetherAre you fostering trust through effective communication in your professional relationships? Are you prioritizing helping others over personal gain when networking? In this episode, we dive into the essentials of communication, respect, and aiding fellow vendors to create lasting bonds and smooth events. We'll explore practical ways to enhance your professional networks through proactive collaboration and kindness, reflecting on real-life anecdotes that underscore the impact of these values.Listen to this new episode for insights on building stronger, more respectful professional relationships by focusing on clear communication and a giving mentality.About Irene: Irene Katzias is the owner of Irene + Co Events, an award-winning wedding planning and design company known for crafting bespoke, high-end weddings across the U.S. With over a decade of experience, Irene’s work has been featured on The Knot, Utah Bride and Groom Magazine, and Zion Brides. A TEDx speaker and host of the Peak Perfection podcast on Spotify, Irene brings her signature blend of creativity, confidence, and approachability to every event, helping couples tell their unique love stories—one detail at a time.Contact: Website: www.irenecoevents.comEmail: irenecoevents@gmail.com Instagram: @irenecoevents Episode Summary:In this episode of "Wedding Business Solutions," I sit down with Irene Katzias from Irene and Co Events to dive into the importance of communication and respect in professional networking. We discuss how offering help rather than seeking personal gain builds trust and strong relationships. Irene shares her team’s approach of prioritizing teamwork, being the first to arrive and last to leave, and tackling every task with a collective spirit. We also address common vendor complaints, emphasizing the need for clear communication and collaboration. Irene's closing words, "Just be kind. You'll be fine," perfectly capture the essence of our conversation.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes andAI For The Real World - A Practical Guide to AI for Wedding & Event Pros is your easy way to learn how to harness the power of AI, no matter which AI tools you use. Get Yours Today at www.ShopAlanBerg.com  I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 
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Oct 9, 2024 • 8min

You can't save your way to prosperity!

You can't save your way to prosperityWe've all heard the phrase "cut costs to boost profits," but is that really the best way to grow your wedding business? Are you focusing too much on trimming expenses and missing out on bigger opportunities? In this episode, I delve into why investing in your business can yield far more significant returns than just cutting corners. I discuss practical ways to increase sales, enhance profitability, and make smarter investments that will propel your business forward.Listen to this new 6-minute episode for insights on shifting your focus from saving to smart investing for a more prosperous business.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I dive into the concept that you can't save your way to prosperity; instead, you need to focus on increasing sales and making smart investments. I discuss the difference between everyday expenses, which have a limited potential for savings, and investments, which can provide higher returns over time. By concentrating on boosting your sales and profitability, you'll see much greater benefits than simply trying to cut costs. I also emphasize the value of investing in marketing, training, and enhancing customer value perception. Tune in to learn how to set your wedding business on a path to greater success and long-term profitability!If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/AI For The Real World - A Practical Guide to AI for Wedding & Event Pros is your easy way to learn how to harness the power of AI, no matter which AI tools you use. Get Yours Today at www.ShopAlanBerg.com  I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 
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Oct 2, 2024 • 7min

What the heck is Last Click Attribution?

What the heck is Last Click Attribution?Have you ever wondered if you're really understanding how clients find your business? Are you giving too much credit to that final click without considering the full journey your customers take? In this episode, I dive into last click attribution, dissecting what it means and how it might be misleading your marketing strategies. Learn how to trace the entire path to get a clearer picture and potentially boost your inquiries and sales!Listen to this new 6-minute episode for insights on understanding your customer's journey from the first click to the last and how you can influence it to drive more business.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I delve into the concept of "last click attribution" and what it means for your wedding business marketing. I explain that last click attribution often misleads us into thinking the final click before a customer contacts us is solely responsible for their decision, when in reality, their journey is much more complex. I emphasize the importance of understanding the entire customer path to optimize your marketing strategies effectively. By analyzing where inquiries come from and reinforcing successful tactics, you can better influence potential clients' pathways. Whether you're new to this concept or need a refresher, this episode is packed with insights to help enhance your digital marketing efforts.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/AI For The Real World - A Practical Guide to AI for Wedding & Event Pros is your easy way to learn how to harness the power of AI, no matter which AI tools you use. Get Yours Today at www.ShopAlanBerg.com  I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 
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Sep 30, 2024 • 30min

Richie Steadman - Oh no, a customer complaint!

Richie Steadman - Oh no, a customer complaint!Receiving a bad review can be disheartening, but are you reacting impulsively or taking the time to understand the full story? How do you ensure clients feel heard and valued even when they're dissatisfied? In this episode, Richie Steadman shares his first refund experience in 15 years, offering valuable lessons on managing complaints and protecting your business's reputation. We discuss how crucial communication is in avoiding misunderstandings and making strategic decisions to maintain client relationships without compromising your business.Listen to this new episode for insights on managing bad reviews and ensuring long-term business success through effective communication and thoughtful resolutions.About Richie: Richie T Steadman is the owner of Best DJ In Utah, Utah’s highest and most rated dj company. Richie has been in business for himself for 6 years and been in the entertainment for over 20 years.Social handle: @bestdjinutahWebsite: bestdjinutah.comEpisode Summary: In this episode of "Wedding Business Solutions," I welcome Richie Steadman to discuss handling bad reviews in the wedding industry. Richie shares a challenging situation involving a DJ complaint from a wedding he managed, detailing his thoughtful and strategic response. Together, we explore the importance of not reacting impulsively, understanding client expectations, and resolving disputes professionally to protect your business's reputation. Richie recounts investigating the complaint, having direct conversations, and negotiating a partial refund with a non-disparagement agreement. We emphasize the value of resolving grievances to prevent negative reviews, sharing personal anecdotes and practical advice for long-term business success. Join us for insights and strategies to handle dissatisfied clients effectively.If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com  View the full transcript on Alan’s sitAI For The Real World - A Practical Guide to AI for Wedding & Event Pros is your easy way to learn how to harness the power of AI, no matter which AI tools you use. Get Yours Today at www.ShopAlanBerg.com  I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for "The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast" please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher:  http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com 

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