The Venue RX

On this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Caroline and her husband, Kyler, the owners of The Firehouse Event Venue in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Together, they share their story of building and operating The Firehouse while also growing Brooks & Reid Events, and what it has looked like to manage multiple businesses in the wedding and events industry. Caroline and Kyler open up about the challenges, unexpected costs, and wins they’ve experienced along the way, including the true costs and surprises couples face when booking a venue, how they balance planning, rentals, and venue ownership while raising a growing family, and the lessons they’ve learned from buying an established business versus building one from the ground up. They also discuss the importance of avoiding the comparison trap, staying focused on your own goals, and finding your unique lane in an increasingly competitive wedding and events market.

About Our Guest: 

Caroline and Kyler Parker are wedding and event industry entrepreneurs based in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Caroline is an owner of Brooks & Reid Events and Rentals, a full-service event planning and rental company serving Eastern North Carolina and beyond, while together Caroline and Kyler are behind The Firehouse, a historic event venue in downtown Goldsboro.

Their experience spans multiple sides of the events industry, from wedding planning and rentals to venue ownership and operations. Through Brooks & Reid, Caroline and her team provide event planning and an extensive collection of rentals, while The Firehouse offers a distinctive setting for weddings and celebrations with indoor and outdoor event spaces, a rooftop lounge and bar, and in-house access to Brooks & Reid’s planning and rental services.

Find Them Here: 

Website: https://thefirehouse.co/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefirehouse.co/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefirehouse.co/?hl=en

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefirehouse_events

Phone: 919-714-4599

On this week’s episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Kelsey Correia, COO and Lead Planner at Floriana, an elegant historic estate wedding venue in New England. Kelsey shares the inside story of how Floriana transformed its brand and operations, including how a strategic rebrand and new website helped quadruple their lead flow.

Kelsey dives into the business behind running a successful wedding venue, from financing and staffing to managing inherited bookings and transitioning existing events. She also discusses the decision to bring catering in-house, how greater control over the guest experience impacts operations, and the systems needed to manage a growing venue effectively. Kelsey also shares Floriana’s approach to increasing bookings, planning for capacity, and making thoughtful decisions about future growth while staying competitive in an evolving wedding market. 

About Our Guest: 

Kelsey Correia is the COO and Lead Planner at Floriana, a historic estate wedding venue in Ipswich, Massachusetts. Her career in events began with a work-study job in college, eventually leading her to professionally enter the events industry in 2018. Since then, Kelsey has planned and executed weddings throughout New England, led event teams for North Shore hospitality groups, worked directly with full-service planning clients, and launched her own planning company, Beach Rose Events.

Today, Kelsey brings both a planner’s perspective and an operator’s mindset to Floriana, where she has played an integral role in transforming the historic property into a thriving wedding venue. Her work has included rebranding the business, rebuilding operational systems, bringing catering in-house, and creating a more intentional guest experience. Known for her creativity, practical problem-solving, and ability to anticipate the needs of both clients and teams, Kelsey brings a unique perspective to the intersection of hospitality, event planning, and venue operations.

Find Them Here: 

Website: www.florianaipswich.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/florianaipswich/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556700051209

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/events2360/

Email: sales@florianaipswich.com

On this week's episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Hannah Corbacio, the visionary behind The Rosalia Hotel, a beautifully restored boutique hotel and wedding venue in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. Hannah shares how an unexpected start in real estate investing evolved into an ambitious hospitality project, offering an honest look at what it takes to breathe new life into a historic property while building a thriving wedding venue business.

Hannah opens up about the realities of working alongside her spouse, raising capital for a large-scale renovation, and having the confidence to book weddings before the venue was even complete. She also shares how setting clear expectations with couples helped build trust during construction and why taking calculated risks has been essential to her success. She also breaks down how she's leveraged organic social media, especially TikTok to generate awareness, build excitement, and consistently attract new wedding bookings without relying on a massive advertising budget.

About Our Guest: 

Hannah Corbacio is an entrepreneur, real estate developer, and the co-founder of The Rosalia Hotel, an ambitious boutique hotel and wedding venue project in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. Alongside her husband, Hannah is leading the transformation of a historic bank building into a one-of-a-kind hospitality destination, blending luxury accommodations, weddings, and community revitalization.

Before entering the world of hospitality and real estate, Hannah built a successful career in marketing, experience that has played a key role in launching and growing The Rosalia Hotel's brand. Through creative storytelling and organic social media particularly TikTok and Instagram she has generated excitement for the project and attracted couples long before the venue officially opened.

Find Them Here: 

Website: https://therosaliahotel.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therosaliahotel/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therosaliahotel

In this week's episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, Jonathan sits down with Mary Luz Rodriguez, co-founder of Living Sculpture Sanctuary, to hear the incredible story behind a venue unlike any other. Mary shares how a vision rooted in nature, wellness, and intentional design evolved into a destination where couples and families can celebrate life's most meaningful moments.

Mary reflects on the unconventional journey of building Living Sculpture Sanctuary from the ground up while balancing a successful legal career. She opens up about the challenges, risks, and lessons that came with creating a venue from scratch, as well as the importance of staying true to her mission and values every step of the way.

She also discusses how Living Sculpture Sanctuary has carved out its own niche by offering experiences that go far beyond the traditional wedding day. From wellness and mindfulness to immersive outdoor experiences, Mary explains how creating genuine connection has become the heart of the business. She also shares practical insights into marketing a one-of-a-kind venue, building strong relationships with vendors, maintaining high standards, and her vision for the future of the sanctuary.

About Our Guest: 

Mary Luz Rodriguez Alvarez is the co-founder of Living Sculpture Sanctuary, one of South Florida's most distinctive wedding and wellness destinations. Alongside her husband, Robert J. McKee, she transformed a shared passion for nature, environmental stewardship, and meaningful human connection into a handcrafted sanctuary where thousands of couples have celebrated life's biggest milestones. The venue was built by hand with the vision of creating more than just a beautiful event space, it was designed to be a place of peace, healing, and transformation. 

An environmental trial attorney by profession, Mary Luz brings a unique perspective to venue ownership, blending her commitment to protecting the environment with a heart for creating intentional experiences. Originally from Mexico, her journey through law, personal development, and holistic wellness has shaped her philosophy that the most memorable celebrations are rooted in authenticity, purpose, and service. 

Find Them Here: 

Website: www.livingsculpturesanctuary.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingsculpturesanctuary/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LivingSculptureSanctuary/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3bsViVrsujsS_qWj00OdlA

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@livingsculpturesanctuary?lang=en

In this episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, Jonathan Aymin sits down with Wes Sytsma, owner of Bowery Barn, to discuss what it was really like stepping into the venue industry without any previous experience. From navigating a complete leadership transition to rebuilding a team and creating a culture people genuinely want to be part of, Wes shares the lessons he learned along the way and how those experiences shaped the business today.

Wes dives into what it takes to build trust with a team, why transparency and honest feedback are essential for growth, and how being proactive instead of reactive can completely change the trajectory of a business. He also shares how adapting through unexpected challenges, empowering employees to take ownership, and staying open to learning have become the foundation of Bowery Barn's culture.

About Our Guest: 

Wes Sytsma is the co-owner of The Bowery Barn, an award-winning wedding venue in Wisconsin that he and his wife, Sarah, transformed into a one-of-a-kind destination for couples. Without coming from a wedding industry background, Wes stepped into venue ownership with a willingness to learn, adapt, and build a business centered on people, relationships, and exceptional guest experiences. Today, The Bowery Barn is known not only for its beautiful spaces but also for its intentional culture, strong team, and commitment to helping every couple tell their own story. On this episode, Wes shares what he's learned about leadership, navigating change, building a resilient team, and creating a company culture that thrives through growth and uncertainty.

Find Them Here: 

Address: N2201 County Road P, Rubicon, WI 53078

Website: https://thebowerybarn.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebowerybarn

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebowerybarn/

Email: hello@thebowerybarn.com

Phone: (262) 443-2750

On this week’s episode of the Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Meredith Schwartz, CEO of Here Comes the Guide, for a conversation packed with insight on venue marketing, leadership, and sustainable growth. 

Meredith shares the story behind building and scaling Here Comes the Guide into an all-women, values-driven company, while reflecting on the evolution from print to digital and the unique ways their team continues to serve venues across the industry.

Meredith shares insight on managing remote teams, maintaining company culture, and why Here Comes the Guide has remained committed to a non-commissioned sales approach. She also gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the creation and strategy behind the popular “Marketing the Murder Barn” educational series and how storytelling can become a powerful marketing tool for venues. Meredith also discusses time management, setting boundaries as a business owner, and practical advice for venue owners navigating difficult decisions and seasons of growth.

About Our Guest: 

Meredith Schwartz is the CEO of Here Comes the Guide, a leading wedding venue resource that helps couples discover venues and helps venue owners grow their businesses through marketing and education. Having joined the company in 1997 as one of its earliest employees, Meredith has played a major role in transforming the business from a print publication into a nationally recognized digital platform serving thousands of venues and engaged couples across the country.

Known for her people-first leadership style, Meredith leads Here Comes the Guide as an employee-owned, all-women company focused on strong culture, flexible work policies, and sustainable growth. She is passionate about creating a workplace that supports both meaningful careers and balanced lives, while pioneering remote work strategies long before they became mainstream.

In addition to leading Here Comes the Guide, Meredith is the creator behind educational resources like Venue Business Boot Camp and the “Marketing the Murder Barn” series, where she shares practical marketing strategies and business insights for venue owners. She is also the co-host of the popular Currently Reading podcast, where she combines her love of books, storytelling, and conversation.

Find Her Here: 

Here Comes The Guide:

Website: https://www.herecomestheguide.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herecomestheguide/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/8554093942/

Venue Business Boot Camp

Website: https://venuebusinessbootcamp.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/venuebusinessbootcamp/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Venue-Business-Boot-Camp-61579734955499/

On this week’s episode of the Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with AI and marketing expert Gal Borenstein to discuss the growing impact of artificial intelligence on business, trust, and the wedding industry. Gal explains how AI is reshaping the way companies market, communicate, and generate leads, while also creating new challenges around credibility and consumer trust.

Gal shares practical insights for businesses that are just getting started with AI tools, where AI is most effective in CRM systems and lead generation, and why emotional intelligence will become even more valuable in tech-driven industries. He also dives into the rapid pace of innovation and how major companies like Google and HubSpot are being challenged by the next wave of AI technology. Gal shares forward-thinking strategies and real-world applications for venue owners, entrepreneurs, and business leaders looking to stay ahead in an evolving digital landscape.

About Our Guest: 

Gal Borenstein is the Founder and CEO of The Borenstein Group, a strategic branding and communications firm specializing in technology, defense, aerospace, cybersecurity, and professional services. With more than 30 years of experience, he has helped startups and established companies strengthen their market positioning, build brand credibility, and grow in highly competitive industries.

He is a recognized expert in digital branding, AI-driven marketing, and reputation management, Borenstein advises executives on building trust, transparency, and resilience in the digital age. He is also the author of Don’t Believe the Hype, which explores trust erosion in the digital and AI age, along with Beating Goliath with AI, ACTIVATE!, and What Really Counts for CEOs. These works highlight trust as a strategic advantage amid technological disruption and information overload.

Find Him Here: 

Website: https://www.borensteingroup.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/borensteingroup/?_rdr

X: https://x.com/BorensteinGroup

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/galborensteinexecutiveprofile

In this week’s episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Raina Moskowitz, CEO of The Knot Worldwide, for a data-driven conversation every venue owner should hear. Raina shares practical strategies backed by real insights to help wedding and event venues attract higher-quality leads and convert more inquiries into bookings. She discusses what’s working right now to improve response rates and how recent updates to WeddingPro like the “Close the Loop” tool are changing the way venues connect with couples. She explains why the quality of leads matters more than volume, and what venues can do to strengthen both, while also breaking down the impact of storefront optimization, from pricing transparency to reviews, on today’s booking decisions. She also explores how evolving consumer behavior especially across social media, AI, and emerging technologies like LLMs is reshaping the wedding industry and what venues need to do to stay competitive.

About Our Guest: 

Raina Moskowitz has served as Chief Executive Officer of The Knot Worldwide since 2025. She brings extensive experience leading high-performing teams across operations, marketing, and strategy within global consumer and technology companies.

Prior to joining The Knot Worldwide, Moskowitz was Chief Operating and Marketing Officer at Etsy, where she oversaw Strategy and Operations, Marketing, Member Services, Trust & Safety, International, and Impact. During her tenure, she played a key role in driving growth, strengthening customer engagement, and scaling the company’s global marketplace.

Earlier in her career, Moskowitz led U.S. customer marketing at American Express, where she was responsible for customer growth, loyalty, and retention. She also held several leadership roles spanning product development and corporate strategy. Since 2020, Moskowitz has served on the board of directors of Sprout Social (Nasdaq: SPT). She is also a board member of Tech:NYC, where she supports initiatives that foster a thriving and inclusive technology ecosystem. Moskowitz is a graduate of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Find Her Here: 

Website: https://www.theknotww.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rainamoskowitz

On this week's episode of The Venue RX podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Mark Mallchok, Senior Event Strategist at Brella Productions, for a behind-the-scenes look at the corporate events world. With 34 years of experience, Mark shares how Brella approaches end-to-end event optimization and builds strong, lasting partnerships that drive successful events. Mark dives into what corporate planners are really looking for when selecting unique venues and offsite locations, and why flexibility and transparency can make or break your chances of securing corporate business.

He provides actionable insights for venue owners and event professionals, including common pitfalls like inaccurate capacity charts, outdated floorplans, and hidden fees that can quickly turn clients away. He also explores the growing importance of hybrid events and what venues need to do to stay competitive in an evolving landscape.

About Our Guest: 

Mark Mallchok is a Senior Event Strategist and Executive Producer specializing in event and video projects, with more than 30 years of experience in the industry. He focuses on creating meaningful audience engagement through strategic storytelling and the development of impactful sales, marketing, and training materials. His work spans a diverse range of clients, including healthcare organizations, educational publishers, agencies, and in-house corporate communications teams, with deep expertise across verticals such as pharmaceutical and medical, green businesses, heavy industry, food, and education.

Mark’s specialties include public speaking, live and virtual event production, visual and interactive creative direction, video and film direction, digital photography, and virtual meeting strategy. Known for his versatility and problem-solving mindset, he brings a comprehensive, creative, and results-driven approach to every project he leads.

Find Him Here: 

Website: brella.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brellamm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrellaProductions/?fref=nf

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brellaprod/

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Shawn Trznade, Christopher Hart, and Ares Blessios, the founders of Seated with Love, a venue management platform built to support venue owners and streamline operations. 

Together, they discuss how Seated with Love is reshaping the wedding planning experience for both venues and couples by simplifying communication, organization, and overall workflow. They explain what the platform is and how it helps manage the planning process more efficiently, while also highlighting key features such as customizable wedding website templates, drag-and-drop seating charts, and seamless document sharing. 

They also dive into how the platform was developed to address common pain points based on real wedding planning experiences, and share insights into integrations, pricing, and revenue-sharing opportunities available to venues. They give us a practical look at how technology can enhance operations and improve the client experience in today’s wedding industry.

About Our Guest: 

Seated With Love was founded by Shawn Trznade after experiencing firsthand how complicated and outdated the wedding planning process can be. What should have been a seamless experience was instead filled with scattered emails, spreadsheets, and manual tasks, making it difficult for venues and couples to stay organized. Recognizing this gap, Shawn set out to build a better solution designed specifically for wedding venues.

Seated With Love brings structure and simplicity to the planning process by allowing venues to define their workflows once and apply them across every event, while giving couples a centralized portal to manage guest lists, seating charts, documents, and more. With a mission to modernize the wedding planning experience, the platform helps venues operate more efficiently while creating a smoother, more organized journey for couples from start to finish.

Find Here: 

Website: https://seatedwithlove.com/

Email: help@seatedwithlove.com 

On this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Tom Chelednik, Director of Vendor Engagement at The Knot Worldwide, to break down the current state of the wedding venue industry. From real data to real strategy, Tom shares insights every venue owner and operator needs to stay competitive in today’s market, covering everything from wedding industry revenue trends and evolving guest expectations to average spend per wedding and how those numbers are shifting across regions. He dives into key differences in guest counts, budgets, and venue preferences, while also unpacking the marketing musts venues can’t afford to ignore, including aligning your website and social media presence and maintaining a consistent brand identity. He also explores effective lead management, smart inquiry follow-up tactics, and realistic conversion benchmarks, along with opportunities to increase revenue through rehearsal dinners, after parties, and multi-day wedding experiences.

About Our Guest: 

Tom Chelednik is the Director of Vendor Engagement at The Knot Worldwide, where he works closely with venue owners and wedding professionals across the country to help them grow and succeed in an evolving market. With a deep understanding of industry data, consumer behavior, and venue operations, Tom brings valuable insights into the trends shaping today’s weddings. He is passionate about equipping venue owners with the tools, strategies, and perspective needed to improve performance, strengthen marketing, and elevate the overall client experience.

Find Him Here: 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-chelednik-5b650812

WeddingPro: https://pros.weddingpro.com/author/tchelednik/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tom_chelednik/

On this week’s episode of The Venue RX Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Anthony Lambatos, owner of Footers Catering and founder of MIBE, to discuss what it truly takes to build an intentional and high-performing workplace culture in the events industry. 

Anthony shares his journey of transitioning into and purchasing his family’s business, navigating a complex succession process, and redefining the company’s core values along the way. He offers practical, actionable insight into improving team dynamics and reshaping company culture, while also highlighting the tangible return on investment that comes from investing in people. 

He also discusses the impact of MIBE (Make It Better Every Day), including the summits and workshops he leads throughout the year to help businesses grow stronger from the inside out. 

About Our Guest: 

Anthony Lambatos is the owner and CEO of Footers Catering and the founder of MIBE, a culture-focused coaching and training company serving the hospitality and events industry. Growing up in the family business, Anthony officially stepped into leadership alongside his wife, April, when they purchased Footers Catering in 2010 and successfully transitioned it into a thriving second-generation company. 

Under his leadership, Footers has experienced significant growth while becoming nationally recognized for its people-first culture, consistently earning “Best Places to Work” honors and achieving industry-leading employee retention. Anthony is known for pioneering “heart-led leadership,” a philosophy centered on putting people first to drive both team fulfillment and business success. 

As a nationally sought-after speaker and coach, Anthony has helped thousands of leaders build intentional workplace cultures that fuel performance, engagement, and long-term growth. Through MIBE, he delivers keynotes, workshops, and summits designed to equip business owners and leadership teams with practical tools to create thriving, people-first organizations

Find Him Here: 

Website: https://themibe.com/

Catering: https://footerscatering.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonylambatos/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mibeleadership

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themibe

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Artūras Asakavičius, co-founder of Breezit, to explore the future of AI in the wedding and events industry.

Artūras shares how artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming venue management, marketing, and customer interactions, giving venue owners a clear, no-fluff perspective on what’s coming and how to stay ahead. He dives into the shifting landscape of traditional platforms like The Knot and WeddingWire, and what their evolution means for the industry as a whole.

He also explains how AI assistants are reshaping both the customer journey and the venue owner experience, along with practical strategies for optimizing your website for AI-driven discovery and LLM searchability. Artūras breaks down the real-world impact of Breezit’s AI tools on lead management and conversions, and what will ultimately set venues apart as AI adoption continues to accelerate.

About Our Guest: 

Artūras Asakavičius is a tech entrepreneur, investor, and the co-founder and CEO of Breezit, a modern platform transforming how people discover and book event venues and vendors. Originally from Lithuania, Artūras began his career as a finance lawyer at a leading Baltic law firm before pivoting into entrepreneurship, driven by a desire to build innovative, tech-enabled solutions. 

He went on to co-found a renewable energy startup in Australia, gaining international experience before exiting the business and turning his attention to the events industry. The idea for Breezit was born while planning his own wedding, where he recognized a major gap in the market, an outdated, opaque booking process lacking transparency and efficiency. 

Under his leadership, Breezit has grown into one of California’s largest event venue marketplaces, offering real-time pricing, instant booking capabilities, and AI-powered search tools that streamline the planning experience for couples and event organizers. 

Artūras brings a diverse background spanning law, fintech, clean energy, and startups, and is known for his focus on innovation, transparency, and customer-centric product design. In addition to leading Breezit, he is also an active angel investor and advisor, supporting emerging technology ventures.

Find Him Here: 

Website: https://breezit.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justbreezit/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JustBreezit

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justbreezit

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arturasasakavicius/

In this week’s episode of the Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Dixie Bagley, a venue owner, venue coach for the Bridal Society, certified wedding planner, and consultant. Dixie shares practical, real-world lessons from her journey transforming venues, managing teams, and building multiple thriving businesses in the wedding industry.

Dixie opens up about how she transitioned from hosting social events to owning a successful wedding venue, and what it really took to make that leap. She talks candidly about the importance of trusting your instincts as a business owner, especially when making big decisions that shape the future of your company. She also dives into why setting boundaries and learning to say “no” is critical for long-term success, sustainability, and protecting your vision.

Dixie also unpack the realities of rapid growth, including the lessons she learned from managing 50 weddings in her very first year. From navigating overwhelm to building the right systems, Dixie shares what she would do differently and what she believes every venue owner should prioritize. Furthermore she shares her strategies for outsourcing, hiring, and identifying the strengths within your team so you can scale without burning out.

About Our Guest: 

Dixie Bagley is a seasoned wedding industry entrepreneur, venue owner, certified wedding planner, venue coach for The Bridal Society, and consultant who helps wedding professionals become the boss of their business. A Georgia native, Dixie’s journey began when she and her husband purchased a barn in 2008 and hosted a spontaneous wedding that sparked a thriving business. She opened The Farm, a European-style barn venue in Rome, Georgia, and quickly booked out every weekend, which led her into wedding planning, launching The Sweet Bar Bakery, opening a second venue (The Tillman Hangar), and founding The Southern Wedding Collective, an online directory built on integrity and high standards. With hundreds of weddings and years of real-world experience under her belt, Dixie mentors venue owners and wedding pros on profitable pricing, smart business systems, team building, ethical practices, and sustainable growth. Her mission is to empower others to run intentional, profitable, and fulfilling businesses without losing their passion or peace of mind.

Find Her Here: 

Website: https://dixiebagley.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dixiedoesweddings/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dixie.bagley/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dixiebagley

On this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, Jonathan Aymin sits down with Travis McBurney of The McBurney Group to unpack how AI is revolutionizing the events industry and making it easier than ever for venue owners and event professionals to streamline operations and reclaim their time. Travis shares why AI is a true game-changer for our industry, comparing this shift to major tech transformations of the past and explaining why those who embrace it now will have a powerful advantage.

He breaks down practical, approachable ways to get started with AI, even if you don’t consider yourself tech savvy, and clarifies the differences between prompts, workflows, automations, and agents, showing how each can be applied to everyday business tasks. He also covers how to choose affordable, effective AI tools and certifications without getting overwhelmed, as well as the key areas where human oversight remains essential. 

About Our Guest: 

Travis McBurney is the founder of The McBurney Group, a people-centered, AI-forward consulting and solutions firm built on more than two decades of hands-on experience in events, hospitality, operations, and talent acquisition. With a career shaped by producing over 300 events and leading complex operational teams, Travis brings a unique blend of practical expertise and forward-thinking innovation to the challenges facing today’s event and business professionals.

He helps organizations streamline workflows, implement intelligent automation, and leverage AI tools to reduce administrative burden while enhancing human decision-making and operational excellence.Travis partners with businesses to build tailored systems, whether that’s automating routine tasks, optimizing hiring practices, or designing custom operational solutions, all grounded in real-world experience and strategic insight. His work emphasizes thoughtful AI adoption that empowers teams, improves efficiency, and frees up valuable time for creative and relational work that matters most.

Find Him Here: 

Website: https://www.themcburneygroup.com/

Email: info@themcburneygroup.com

Tel: 310.692.1667

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travis-mcburney/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-mcburney-group/

In this week’s episode of the Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Dana Kadwell. Dana is a wedding industry educator, multi-venue owner, and founder of Venue Masterclass, known for helping venue owners build profitable, sustainable businesses through practical strategy and community-driven education.

Dana shares her journey from wedding planner to owning multiple venues, including the emotional experience of selling a venue she built. She unpacks the realities of venue ownership, from the differences between buying an established venue and starting from scratch to the cash flow challenges and operational hurdles that come with both paths. Dana also explains how aligning your venue’s aesthetic, pricing, and service model is essential for long-term profitability and sustainability.

She also discusses smart strategies for hiring and scaling, and what it truly takes to transition from being involved in the day-to-day operations to stepping fully into CEO mode. She also dives into why venue education and community matter in such a fast-evolving industry, along with details about Dana’s Venue Masterclass and how venue owners can get involved.

About Our Guest: 

Dana Kadwell is an entrepreneur, venue owner, educator, and speaker with more than 18 years of experience in the wedding and events industry. She is the co-founder of Hustle & Gather, a consulting and education company that helps venue owners and event professionals build profitable, sustainable businesses. Dana has launched and operated multiple event companies and venues and is the founder of Venue Masterclass, a leading educational platform for venue owners. Known for her candid leadership style and practical business strategies, she is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs to grow strong teams and thriving businesses.

Find Her Here: 

Website: https://www.hustleandgather.com/

Venue Masterclass: https://www.thevenuemasterclass.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hustleandgather/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hustle-gather-podcast-consulting

In this week’s episode, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Tim Mitchell, founder of MNG Event Collective and Mangia Catering, for an honest and insight-packed conversation about building a successful catering business and creating strong venue partnerships. Tim shares his journey of scaling from a family-run Italian restaurant into a high-volume, full-service catering company, while navigating the realities of entrepreneurship, leadership, and family life. He dives into the importance of “buying back your time” by building systems, delegating effectively, and shifting from day-to-day kitchen work into strategic business leadership. Tim also offers candid perspective on what makes a healthy venue-caterer partnership, common red flags venues should avoid, and how professionalism and focus elevate the guest experience. He also unpacks the differences between serving traditional and luxury clients, how branding and presentation play a critical role in attracting high-end clientele, and why trust and reputation are everything at the top of the market. Grounded in real-world experience, he delivers practical, no-nonsense advice for hospitality entrepreneurs looking to grow with intention, avoid burnout, and build businesses that support both their professional goals and personal lives.

About Our Guest: 

Tim Mitchell is the chef founder and luxury event planner behind Mangia Catering Co., a highly respected catering and event company based in Liberty Lake, Washington. With more than 15 years of experience in the wedding and events industry, Tim grew Mangia from a home-kitchen startup into a company known for elevated cuisine and thoughtfully executed experiences. He is passionate about bringing creative visions to life through intentional menus and meaningful details, and he also serves on the board of the International Caterers Association, where he supports and advocates for the catering community. Above all, Tim is driven by relationships and purpose, grounded in his faith, and deeply values his role as a husband to his wife Erica and father to their four children

Find Him Here: 

Email: info@mangiacateringco.com 

Website: https://mangiacateringco.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MangiaCatering/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mangia_catering/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mangiacatering/

Tim’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecheftim

In this week’s episode of The Venue RX, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Adrienne Gardner, speaker, coach, and sales strategy and revenue expert behind The Gardner Effect, to discuss Future State of Mind Selling and why venues need to stop selling features and start selling outcomes. Adrienne breaks down how future state selling differs from traditional asset-based sales, why the house-hunting analogy reflects how couples choose venues, and how professionals can move beyond order taking into a more intentional, relationship-driven sales process. She also shares how to apply gap selling during venue tours, create powerful “you are here” moments, personalize the tour experience, and avoid common sales mistakes that cost bookings.

About Our Guest: 

Adrienne Gardner is a speaker, coach, and sales strategy and revenue expert with over 20 years of experience in the events industry. As the founder of The Gardner Effect, she helps venues and event professionals move beyond order taking into confident, relationship-driven sales processes that increase revenue and clarity. Known for her direct, practical approach and engaging style, Adrienne equips teams with the tools and mindset needed to sell outcomes, build stronger connections, and book with confidence.

Find Her Here: 

Website: https://www.gardnereffect.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TGEcoach

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gardnereffect/

Email: adrienne@gardnereffect.com

Excellence doesn’t happen by accident.
It’s not a vibe, a slogan, or something you hope your team “just gets.”

A standard of excellence is a decision, and someone has to own it.

In this video, I talk about why teams drift when standards are unclear, why good people still miss the mark without clarity, and why leadership means defining what great actually looks like then protecting it.

If you want consistency, quality, and a team that knows how to win, it starts with the standard you’re willing to set and keep.

On this week's episode of  the Venue RX Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Sam Jacobson, Co-Founder of DUET and Owner of Ideaction Consulting, to talk about what it really takes to start or refine a business with a strong digital presence in today’s ever-changing industry.

Sam explores why business owners can’t afford to operate on autopilot, how the wedding and creative industries have evolved over the years, and why regularly reassessing your goals, services, and direction is essential for long-term growth. Sam breaks down the foundational steps of building a business, from defining your ideal client and structuring your services to deciding whether to remain owner-operated or build a team.

He also dives into how to transition from saying “yes” to every client to intentionally targeting the right ones, using real-world client examples and case studies. Sam shares practical ways to gather and analyze client feedback through surveys, reviews, CRMs, and AI-powered tools, plus he explains how to use AI responsibly to enhance strategy, systems, SOPs, and operations without relying on it as a shortcut.He highlights the importance of business structure, naming, branding, and the importance of taking imperfect action, knowing when to refine, pivot, or double down on what’s already working, so you can keep moving forward without getting overwhelmed.

About Our Guest: 

Sam Jacobson is a Co-Founder of DUET and the Owner of Ideaction Consulting, where he has spent nearly two decades helping wedding professionals elevate their businesses and stay ahead in a competitive market. Through Ideaction Consulting, Sam has guided hundreds of creative entrepreneurs by sharpening their marketing messages, understanding buyer psychology, and building sales systems that convert interest into booked clients.

Known for his ability to activate audience interest, Sam specializes in clear, persuasive communication that attracts ideal clients directly to the inbox. As social-led marketing emerged as the primary driver of visibility and inquiries for creative brands, Sam became deeply focused on the strategies that turn attention into trust—and trust into results.

At DUET, Sam leads client strategy and trains the team on how to use storytelling to spark connection, build credibility, and drive measurable growth for wedding venues and creative businesses alike.

Find Him Here: 

Website: https://ideactionconsulting.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ideactionconsulting/?hl=e 

Website: https://duetsocialmedia.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duetsocialmedia/?hl=en

On this week's episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Joe Bockerstette to break down the purpose and power of Business Enterprise Mapping. Joe explains how documenting, visualizing, and redesigning business processes helps leaders understand why their companies get the results they do and how owners can fix process issues to improve outcomes. He walks through the foundations of a strong value proposition, the importance of identifying the right customer, and how pain points, desires, responsiveness, cost, and expertise all shape the customer experience. Joe explains how business mapping applies across every department, why it works for any industry, and how focusing on the biggest organizational pain points creates a ripple effect of improvement. He discusses the tools used in mapping, the value of standardizing processes across multiple locations, and the human side of change management. Joe also shares practical steps for small teams, the dangers of relying on “superheroes,” and how to distinguish between people problems and process problems, and why continual improvement matters. 

About Our Guest: 

Joe Bockerstette, brings more than 30 years of transformational leadership across supply chain, operations, and strategic process improvement. Joe has served as a consulting partner at PwC, led CPG companies as CEO, and founded both private equity and angel investment groups, a career defined by building organizations that run smarter, faster, and more efficiently.

Most recently, Joe has been guiding executive teams at Business Enterprise Mapping, where he champions the Perigon Method, a proprietary approach that helps companies turn unclear, inefficient workflows into streamlined engines of value. His work focuses on equipping teams to identify their toughest operational pain points, create practical playbooks for improvement, and build the internal capability to sustain meaningful, long-term results.

He’s also the author of three books on time-based manufacturing, angel investing, and strategic process management, resources that deeply resonate with entrepreneurs, venue owners, and leaders who want to scale through clarity, systems, and smart operational design.

Find Him Here: 

Website: https://www.businessmapping.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-bockerstette-86875a17/

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Sean Garner, founder of Sean Garner Consulting, a full-service agency and fractional CMO partner for local service-based businesses. Sean specializes in helping business owners cut through the noise with simple, actionable marketing strategies that drive real results. Sean breaks down the balance between personal branding and business branding, revealing why showing your face online can build trust faster than any polished logo. He also explains how to create a strong marketing foundation rooted in clear messaging, and why many businesses struggle simply because they’re doing the right tactics in the wrong order.

Sean dives into practical, realistic ways to use AI without falling into the common pitfalls that derail most business owners. He shares why video podcasts are one of the most powerful tools for content creation, SEO, and positioning yourself as the expert in your market. And for anyone thinking about hiring outside help, he offers essential advice on choosing the right marketing agency, along with the red flags venues and service providers should never overlook. 

About Our Guest: 

Sean Garner is an entrepreneur, marketing strategist, and founder of Sean Garner Consulting, a full-service agency and fractional CMO partner for local, service-based businesses. With more than a decade of hands-on experience, he’s helped health and wellness brands, medical clinics, law firms, coaches, consultants, and home service providers grow with clarity, confidence, and consistent lead generation.

What makes Sean unique is the real-world journey behind his expertise. From gym owner to firefighter to faith-driven family man, he understands exactly what it’s like to run a business while balancing life’s most important priorities. His superpower is cutting through the complexity of modern marketing and turning it into simple, actionable steps that actually work. Through StoryBrand messaging, website design, and smart funnel strategy, Sean helps business owners take control of their marketing and position themselves as the trusted, go-to choice in their market.

Find Him Here: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanagarner/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SeanGarnerConsulting/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seangarner/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/seangarner

Ever wondered what it looks like behind the scenes when we record our podcast? Today we’re bringing you into our home studio to show you the full setup, the workflow, the gear we use, and all the little moments that make each episode happen!From setting up the mics to prepping our notes and hitting record, come hang out with us as we share a real, unfiltered look at our creative process. Whether you're curious about podcasting, love BTS content, or just want to see how it all comes together, this episode is for you!

Links To Everything Here:

Sony A7 IV: https://a.co/d/1aDWR6a

Elgato Prompter: https://a.co/d/aLilt8F

RØDE VideoMic Pro: https://a.co/d/aLilt8F

Dummy Battery AC Power: https://a.co/d/gAQZMVg

 Camera Cage: https://a.co/d/8JnJ0lR

Elgato Facecam 4K: https://a.co/d/ibdanH6

iVANKY Dual Thunderbolt:https://a.co/d/hDTIdhK

LED Video Light Kit: https://a.co/d/aqetEg2

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/TwsU4mY1q4k

On this week’s episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Jason Kramer, founder and CEO of Cultivize, a consulting firm that helps service-based businesses turn their CRM systems into scalable growth engines.

Jason shares his journey from running a marketing agency to becoming a CRM strategist focused on connecting marketing efforts to measurable sales results. He discusses how platforms like Upwork and Fiverr reshaped traditional marketing, why so many CRM implementations fail, and how businesses can fix broken lead management processes by prioritizing systems and strategy over software.

Jason explains how to choose the right CRM, the pros and cons of industry-specific tools, and what it really takes to document and streamline the client journey, from first inquiry to post-event retention. Jason also shares insights on AI, automation, and how his team at Cultivize helps businesses of all sizes build visibility, consistency, and accountability into their growth systems.

About Our Guest: 

Jason Kramer is the founder of Cultivize, a consulting firm that helps business consultants and growth advisors turn their CRM systems into engines for scalable success. With more than 20 years of experience in marketing and business development, Jason specializes in transforming lead management processes through smart CRM automation and targeted email nurturing, creating measurable, ROI-driven growth for B2B and consulting firms.

His career began with global brands like Virgin Atlantic and Johnnie Walker, but today his passion lies in empowering strategic advisors and fractional leaders to gain visibility into what’s working, and what’s not, within their sales pipelines. When he’s not helping clients streamline and scale, you’ll find Jason out on the Hudson River enjoying time with his family.

Find Him Here: 

Website: https://cultivize.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cultivize/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleighkramer/
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@crm-advisor-implementor?si=cjzCGRhb6xugqVQr

https://youtu.be/hMYp3NqePlc

In this vlog, Jonathan Aymin travels to San Antonio, Texas, to conduct a full venue audit for a wedding venue hosting about 50 weddings per year, with the goal of doubling that number. Jonathan breaks down exactly what a venue audit is, who it’s for, and how it helps owners identify blind spots in their business operations and marketing.

With experience from hosting over 6,000 weddings nationwide and managing a team of nearly 100 event professionals, Jonathan and the Common Sense Events team bring real-world expertise from venues across the country. He dives into what separates thriving venues from struggling ones, uncovering the difference between people problems and process problems, and how systemizing your business can safeguard long-term sustainability.

He covers the full audit process: from initial contact and setup to actionable findings that reveal where revenue is being left on the table. Jonathan analyzes marketing gaps, lead handling systems, and advertising strategies, from Google and Meta ads to organic social media content, showing how the right marketing and automation tools can transform booking results.

On this week’s episode of The Venue RX Podcast host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Justin Lund, founder of Propel Your, a company that helps small business owners streamline operations, handle compliance, and implement the systems needed to grow sustainably. Propel takes on the administrative and back-office load, things like bookkeeping, payroll, HR, and financial organization, so founders can focus on vision, leadership, and scaling with clarity.

In this episode, Jonathan and Justin dive into how operational structure and personal growth go hand in hand. Justin works with business owners helping them overcome operational pain points and move beyond founder dependency. He shares how his own journey, from a creative, sales-driven entrepreneur to a disciplined systems thinker was forged through personal adversity and recovery.

Justin opens up about his battle with addiction, the lessons learned through rehab, and how psychology and intentional structure became his path to rebuilding both life and business. He discusses parallels between addiction and avoidance in entrepreneurship, how distractions, overworking, and lack of clarity can hold leaders back just as powerfully as any substance.

He also unpacks the dangers of founder dependency, the importance of financial oversight, and the transformative mindset shifts that allow entrepreneurs to scale beyond themselves. Through stories of both hardship and triumph, Justin reveals how simple, consistent systems can replace chaos with clarity and empower long-term growth.

About Our Guest: 

Justin Lund is a systems-driven entrepreneur, speaker, and founder of Propel Your, a company dedicated to helping small business owners scale beyond founder-dependence by building resilient operations and administrative foundations. With a focus on companies generating $500K to $1.5M in annual revenue, Justin partners with founders to resolve operational pain points, standardize processes, and instill sustainable structure so that businesses aren’t reliant on any single person.

His journey to operations expert was far from linear. Early in his career, Justin gravitated toward sales, creativity, and the more exciting facets of entrepreneurship, often neglecting the “boring” but vital functions accounting, payroll, compliance that he believed could be outsourced. But life intervened. After battling addiction and navigating legal and personal consequences, he underwent a deep period of self-reflection, rehabilitation, and growth. He credits that season not only with personal healing but with the formation of rigorous mental models, frameworks, and systems that now inform every facet of his work.

Find Him Here: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/itsjustinlund/

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@itsJustinLund

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/justin-lund-propel/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/justin.lund.propel

Website: www.propelyour.com

Email: justin@propelyour.com

In this week’s episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Caleb Ralston, a creative strategist and media expert known for helping brands find their voice and build deeper connections with their audience. Together, they dive into what it truly takes to build a brand, craft meaningful content, and use media intentionally to stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Caleb shares his journey from a childhood passion for creating videos to becoming a professional storyteller who has collaborated with some of the biggest names in marketing. He 

unpacks the importance of leaning into your natural strengths, hiring to fill your weaknesses instead of trying to fix them, and adapting to the evolving role of AI in today’s creative landscape.

He also breaks down his signature “Two Column Approach” for standing out in competitive industries, clarifies the difference between branding, marketing, and advertising, and shares his philosophy on building teams that solve real bottlenecks rather than simply filling roles. Caleb offers insight into identifying top talent, fostering curiosity, and understanding what truly separates impactful content creators from artists who create only for themselves.

Finally, Caleb discusses why the most successful brands focus on audience intent, creating content that educates, inspires, and converts while maintaining artistic integrity. He highlights the power of evergreen, belief-driven messaging to build lasting trust and explains why these principles matter across every industry, from media to venues and beyond.

About Our Guest: 

Caleb Ralston is a creative strategist, brand architect, and media expert who helps entrepreneurs build personal brands that convert. Blending storytelling with strategic execution, he focuses on brand positioning, content strategy, and media team development to ensure the stories you tell are seen, trusted, and acted upon.

With experience working alongside top creators and companies, Caleb’s approach is hands-on and results-driven, centered on clarity, authenticity, and meaningful execution. He is also a sought-after speaker and podcast guest, where he shares insights on how powerful branding and media can drive lasting growth.

Find Him Here: 

Website: https://calebralston.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calebralston

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CalebRalston

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calebralston

In this episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Krista Chapman, founder of Path & Compass, to unpack why true conversion in marketing comes down to storytelling, resonance, and building meaningful systems. Krista shares her journey from planner and venue director to burned-out creative, and how that experience inspired her to create a purpose-driven agency during the early days of content marketing.

The conversation explores her marketing philosophy, “If you care, it will be okay,” and why staying human-first is essential in an industry increasingly shaped by AI and automation. Jonathan and Krista also discuss the balance between metrics and meaning, the dangers of relying on data alone, and how authentic storytelling drives real connection and conversion.

Krista also offers insights on the evolving SEO landscape, the underutilized power of email marketing, and how to blend automation with authenticity in ways that elevate client care rather than replace it. She also shares strategies for solo operators and new venue owners on avoiding overwhelm, establishing strong marketing foundations, and attracting the right clients with clarity and purpose.

About Our Guest: 

Krista Chapman is a business strategist and coach dedicated to helping entrepreneurs build intentional, sustainable businesses. With a background in marketing and sales and years of experience coaching organizations across every stage of growth, Krista brings a direct yet compassionate approach that resonates deeply with business owners.

She is also the founder and lead strategist of Path & Compass, a female-led holistic digital marketing agency that partners with event and wedding companies to build timeless brands, scale in their local markets, and navigate evolving digital technologies through its proven Five-Path Framework. Always testing and refining strategies herself, Krista ensures her clients benefit from guidance grounded in both real-world experience and forward-thinking innovation.

Find Her Here: 

Email: krista@pathandcompass.com

Website: https://www.pathandcompass.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PathandCompass/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathandcompass/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pathandcompass

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/9vwfYuUrgRk

In this week's episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Rick Harris, CEO of the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP), to unlock the secrets to winning more business with stronger proposals. Together they break down the fundamentals of the RFP process and why it matters for venues and vendors. Rick breaks down the common mistakes to avoid, and shares what makes a proposal truly stand out. Rick also offers practical tips for writing proposals that focus on client needs rather than just your business, he also explains how listening and networking can uncover hidden opportunities, and highlights how design, AI, and human creativity can work together to craft proposals that close more deals.

About Our Guest: 

Rick Harris is CEO of the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP) and a 30+ year nonprofit veteran. He specializes in helping nonprofits grow through membership, education, networking, marketing, and community building. Known as a go-to-market expert, Rick has guided dozens of organizations to achieve sustainable growth and impact.

Before entering nonprofit leadership, Rick spent 13 years as a radio DJ, where he honed his ability to anticipate market trends, connect with audiences, and compete with respect.

Rick emphasizes human relationships and strategic partnerships to drive growth, while using operational frameworks to align vision, staff performance, and revenue goals. His member-first approach ensures organizations remain responsive to the needs of their communities.

At APMP, he has grown membership from 3,000 to over 14,000 by leveraging networking, education, certification, and micro-credentials. He also co-designed one of the association industry’s first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs, creating an environment where all members are valued and respected.

Find Him Here: 

Website: http://www.apmp.org 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-harris-9310392/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/APMP.org

In this episode of The Venue RX, host Jonathan Aymin explores the concept of “venue DNA,” discussing how a venue’s unique identity, shaped by owner intent, financial goals, and its amenities serves as the bedrock for effective marketing and sales. He discusses strategies for aligning sales and marketing efforts, the value of training sales teams to articulate a venue’s value with confidence, and the increasing relevance of virtual tours in capturing clients’ interest.

Don't forget to check out WEVA—the Wedding and Event Venue Association, which stands as the first and only national professional association exclusively for venue owners, operators, and managers. WEVA offers access to educational webinars, masterclasses, vetted resources, networking opportunities, technology insights, exclusive discounts, and a community that champions collaboration, professional growth, and mutual support.

🎙 Season 8 of The Venue RX Podcast is a Wrap! 🎉

Season 8 brought some of our best conversations yet—filled with powerful takeaways, industry insights, and real talk for venue owners and event professionals. Whether you’re new here or a longtime listener, this season had something for everyone.

🔥 Here Are the Top 10 Moments from Season 8
(You need to hear these again—or for the first time!)

📺 Watch or listen to all the episodes here:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-XAPFZdrsag0aueIpcC9MB68Y4OvGcI1

Thank you for tuning in, sharing, and growing with us. See you in Season 9!

In this week's episode of The Venue Rx podcast, host Jonathan Aymin welcomes sales strategist and expert Maria Bayer for an insightful conversation on mastering the art of sales in the wedding and events industry. Maria shares her signature approach, Irresistible Selling, which reframes sales as a skill rooted in empathy and client understanding. 

Drawing from her journey from finance to high-level sales, Maria emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations, qualifying leads early, and responding promptly to inquiries. She offers actionable advice for venue owners, including how to define and communicate their unique value, build pricing confidence, and streamline their sales process to consistently attract ideal clients.

About Our Guest: 

Maria Bayer is a renowned sales and mindset strategist who helps wedding and event professionals attract high-paying clients and scale their businesses with authenticity and confidence. With over $25 million in personal sales to companies like Target and Best Buy, Maria brings real-world expertise to her clients. She is the creator of Irresistible Selling, a powerful coaching program that blends digital training, group coaching, and mindset work to help creative entrepreneurs book premium clients—without using pushy sales tactics. Her proven strategies have helped clients increase their sales by 2–10x in just one year.

In addition to her coaching, Maria is a sought-after speaker who has shared her expertise at top industry events such as WIPA, ILEA, and The Wedding Pro CEO Summit. She leads a thriving community of creative entrepreneurs through her Learn Collaborate Flourish Facebook group, offering support, inspiration, and practical advice. Maria holds a Finance degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and lives in the Chicago area with her husband, Tim, and their dog, Gia. 

Find Her Here: 

Email: maria@mariabayer.com

Website: https://www.mariabayer.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MariaBayerFan/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MariaBayer1

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mebayer/

In this week's episode of The Venue Rx podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Kelly Chandler, a leading UK-based venue consultant, for a fascinating conversation on the rapidly evolving wedding venue industry. Drawing from her extensive experience, Kelly shares a unique international perspective on how venues are adapting on both sides of the Atlantic.

She unpacks the key differences and surprising similarities between the UK and US markets, diving into emerging trends, industry challenges, and proven strategies for success. From the growing popularity of rural venues in the UK to the rising influence of social media on guest expectations, Kelly offers timely insights into what today’s couples are really looking for.

She emphasizes the critical importance of investing in your team, navigating market saturation, and embracing innovation, including the increasing role of AI in planning. She also highlights the post-COVID shift toward curated, multi-day wedding experiences, and how venues can evolve to meet this new demand.

About Our Guest: 

Kelly Chandler is a renowned UK-based venue consultant and former luxury wedding planner with over two decades of experience in the events industry. As the founder of Kelly Chandler Consulting, she specializes in helping venues thrive by aligning their offerings with the expectations of today’s discerning clients. Kelly brings a unique fusion of creative flair and business acumen, having worked hands-on with heritage estates, boutique venues, and forward-thinking event spaces to elevate their commercial success.

Before launching her consultancy, Kelly led a top-tier wedding planning business, producing high-end events for clients from around the world. She now draws on that wealth of insight to coach venue teams on experience design, sales strategy, and operational excellence. A regular speaker, writer, and mentor in the wedding and hospitality space, Kelly is passionate about nurturing values-driven businesses that want to grow with integrity, style, and sustainability.

Find Her Here: 

Website:www.kelly-chandler.com 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-chandler-47175910/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly__chandler

Website: https://www.kellychandlerconsulting.co.uk/

Helpful Links: 

1.  Make More Profit From Hosting Weddings - download this gifted masterclass 

2. Business Insights Report- 95 pages of straight-talking wedding venue growth advice
3. 90-minute Private Power-UpConsulting or Business Coaching session

In this episode of The Venue RX podcast, host Jonathan Aymin is joined by Pinterest marketing expert Laura Rike for an insightful conversation on how wedding venues can use Pinterest to grow their brand and attract more clients. Laura explains how Pinterest functions as a visual search engine and how that distinction makes it an especially effective tool for venue marketing. She shares tips on setting up a Pinterest business account, building themed boards that reflect a venue’s aesthetic, and repurposing content to maximize reach. The discussion also touches on how Pinterest ads can help target engaged couples and boost visibility. Laura emphasizes the importance of maintaining consistency, producing high-quality visual content, and engaging strategically to build a strong and lasting presence on the platform.

About Our Guest: 

Laura Rike is a seasoned Pinterest Strategist with over 15 years of marketing experience, specializing in helping entrepreneurs, creatives, and service providers grow their online presence and revenue using strategic Pinterest marketing. Through a combination of organic methods and scalable ad campaigns, Laura has helped clients and students generate over $50K in monthly revenue, build six-figure businesses, and establish themselves as industry leaders. Her strategies focus on sustainable growth—ranking on the first page of Google, attracting targeted leads, and turning visibility into conversions.

Laura’s expertise has been featured on platforms such as Social Media Examiner, Tailwind, MeetEdgar, Agorapulse, and Ecamm Network. Known for her down-to-earth teaching style and results-driven approach, she empowers businesses to turn Pinterest into a powerful marketing engine.

Beyond her professional achievements, Laura is a proud mom of three, a dedicated quilter, and the heart behind a family blog where she shares creative projects and family life. Her blend of marketing insight and personal authenticity defines her work and her mission: helping others grow online with purpose and clarity.

Find Her Here: 

Website: https://laurarike.com/pinterest-speaker/

Facebook: https://facebook.com/laurarike

Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/laurarike

Podcast: https://simplypintastic.com/pinterest-marketing-podcast/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LauraRikePinterest

Instagram: https://instagram.com/laurarike

In this episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin welcomes Mark Chapman, President of The I Do Society, for a deep dive into advertising strategies designed specifically for the wedding industry. Mark shares his evolution from wedding photographer to advertising strategist, revealing how a deep understanding of couples' behavior and the wedding market’s nuances is key to successful marketing.

Mark unpacks the power of Google Ads, the influence of social platforms like Meta and TikTok, and the critical role of demographic targeting. He also explains the importance of transparent pricing and the high ROI of well-executed retargeting campaigns. He is passionate about helping wedding venue owners elevate their marketing game and attract the right clients.

About Our Guest: 

Mark Chapman is the President of The I Do Society, a leading authority on advertising within the wedding industry. His journey began with his family's wedding photography business, where he faced challenges in attracting quality leads. A friend's success with Google Ads inspired him to explore digital advertising, leading to significant improvements in client engagement. This experience ignited his passion for helping other wedding professionals achieve similar success.

Mark's expertise encompasses Google Ads, Meta Ads, and TikTok Ads, focusing on strategies that effectively reach and convert ideal couples. Under his leadership, The I Do Society has become a trusted partner for wedding businesses seeking to enhance their advertising efforts. Mark is also a sought-after speaker and educator, sharing his insights at industry events and webinars.

Find Him Here: 

Website: https://theidosociety.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theidosociety/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theidosociety/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheIDoSociety

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theidosociety

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theidosociety

On this week’s episode of The Venue Rx podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Dan Donovan, CEO of Stratoscope and Ingressotek, to explore the vital role security plays in successful event planning. With decades of experience including security leadership at 13 Super Bowls and seven Olympic Games Dan offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the industry has transformed since 9/11.

From shifting public expectations to the rise of AI and robotics, Dan explains how security strategies have evolved to meet modern challenges. He emphasises the value of early planning, proactive threat mitigation, and close coordination with law enforcement to create safer environments. Dan provides actionable insights for venue operators highlighting that strong security isn't just about protection, but also about creating a positive and seamless guest experience.

About Our Guest: 

Dan Donovan is the founder and CEO of Stratoscope and Ingressotek, two companies leading the way in safety and security innovation for large-scale events and conferences. With over 30 years of experience, Dan has overseen security operations for 13 Super Bowls, seven Olympic Games, and numerous other high-profile events. 

A frequent expert commentator on NewsNation’s Cuomo Live, Dan is widely recognized for his insights into proactive safety and security, with a focus on technology-driven strategies that help prevent mass incidents and safeguard brand reputation and financial risk.

His deep expertise in situational awareness, threat assessment, and crowd dynamics has made him a sought-after voice in the industry. Quoted in multiple major publications, Dan's commitment to advancing event safety and security is rooted in a sophisticated understanding of human behavior and the application of cutting-edge safety technologies.

Find Him Here:

Website: https://stratoscope.com/

Tel: (754) 247-6824

Email: info@stratoscope.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strat0scope

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddonovan50/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ddonovan5050/ + https://www.instagram.com/strat0scope/

In this episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Broc Barton for a powerful conversation on leadership development within the wedding and events industry. Broc shares his inspiring journey from DJing to becoming a leadership coach, emphasizing the critical role leadership plays in creating unforgettable guest experiences.

Throughout the episode, Broc dives into the importance of building structured processes, cultivating self-awareness, and committing to personal growth as keys to effective leadership. He also unpacks the role of mentorship and employee development in scaling his business, Elevate, and shares valuable lessons learned along the way. Broc closes with an inspiring call to action: to embrace leadership not just as a role, but as a lifestyle — one that fosters meaningful, lasting impact for both clients and team members. 

About Our Guest: 

Broc Barton is a passionate leadership coach, entrepreneur, and connector who believes every individual is a natural-born leader capable of creating powerful change. As the founder of Lifestyle Leadership, Broc has dedicated his career to teaching others how to lead authentically — by tapping into what sets their souls on fire.

With a heart for genuine connection, Broc's approach to leadership is holistic and transformative. Lifestyle Leadership isn't just about professional growth; it's about empowering people to align their personal values with their leadership styles, unlocking true fulfillment and lasting impact. Through One-on-One Coaching and Group Breakouts, Broc challenges business leaders to not only achieve external success but also to discover internal freedom and empowerment.

Broc’s journey began in the world of entertainment, where his international DJ career laid the foundation for his passion for creating unforgettable experiences. What started with turntables grew into The Elevate Collective — a global collaboration of nine brands dedicated to delivering meaningful event experiences. Broc credits the rapid growth and success of the Collective to the Lifestyle Leadership principles he now shares with leaders across all industries.

After 17 years as an award-winning DJ and entrepreneur, Broc Barton has shifted his focus to equipping the next generation of leaders. His mission is clear: help individuals and businesses harness their strengths, cultivate impactful leadership, and live a life of alignment, empowerment, and purpose.

Find Him Here: 

Email: hello@brocbarton.com 

Website: https://www.brocbarton.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brocbartonleadership/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brocbartonleadership/

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Ken Gavranovic, CEO of Product Genius, to explore how AI is shaking up the wedding venue industry. Ken shares eye-opening insights on how AI is changing the way couples discover venues—especially through search engines like Google—and how it's helping businesses create more meaningful, personalized customer experiences.

From streamlining day-to-day operations to gathering real-time feedback, Ken breaks down how venue owners can harness AI to boost efficiency and improve service. He also dives into practical strategies for using AI to stay competitive, manage online reviews, and build stronger client relationships. 

About Our Guest: 

Ken Gavranovic is a hands-on tech leader, global keynote speaker, and member of both Thinkers50 and the Forbes Council. With over 20 years of experience, he’s helped traditional businesses harness the power of AI and emerging tech to get fast, real-world results. Ken has partnered with top venture firms, led 18+ successful exits, 35 mergers and acquisitions, and even taken a company public. He's also brought innovation to major brands like Disney World and 7-Eleven, using technology to boost customer experience and streamline operations.

As CEO of Product Genius, Ken is building AI tools that turn real-time data into personalized customer interactions—helping businesses improve service, efficiency, and stay ahead of the competition. He previously founded Interland (now Web.com), growing it from zero to $200 million in just three years and guiding it through an IPO. He’s also held executive roles at New Relic and Cox Automotive, where he led digital transformations that made a big impact on both customers and teams.

Ken has spoken at 50+ events around the world, sharing practical insights on AI, scaling, and driving growth. He’s also co-author of the Amazon bestseller Business Breakthrough 3.0, which lays out a clear five-step roadmap for leaders to drive change, align teams, and grow with purpose

Find Him Here: 

Email: ken@kengavranovic.com

Website: https://kengavranovic.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavranovic/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kengavranovic/

X: https://twitter.com/kgavranovic

In this week’s episode of The Venue RX podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Cassie LaMere, founder of Cassie LaMere Events. Cassie opens up about her journey in the event planning industry, sharing how her personal experiences ignited a passion for crafting meaningful, impactful events. She explores the evolving world of corporate events, offering insights into how venues can tap into opportunities beyond weddings. Cassie also highlights the power of networking, the value of distinctive event spaces, and shares practical strategies for venue owners to boost their visibility and appeal. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the creative potential of nontraditional spaces and how the industry continues to shift toward more personalized, experience-driven gatherings.

About Our Guest: 

Cassie LaMere is the Founder and Creative Director of Cassie LaMere Events, a premier luxury event planning firm known for creating extraordinary experiences with precision and style. With over 15 years in the industry, Cassie blends her passion for celebration with an eye for detail, designing bespoke events that reflect each client’s unique vision.

Driven by a philosophy of personalization and authenticity, Cassie leads a talented team dedicated to elevating every aspect of the guest experience. From intimate gatherings to high-profile corporate affairs, her events are known for their seamless execution, thoughtful design, and unforgettable moments.

Cassie’s influence extends beyond planning—she’s a recognized leader in the industry and an active community advocate, serving on the board for the Center for Child Protection and earning nominations such as Austin Under 40. Her work continues to inspire, redefine standards, and leave a lasting impact.

Find Her Here: 

Tel: 323.369.2432

Email: cassie@cassielamereevents.com 

Website: https://www.cassielamereevents.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassielamereevents/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassielamereevents/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cassielamereevents?lang=en

In this week’s episode of The Venue RX podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Vanessa Fuller of Chivari, a leading supplier of event furniture. Vanessa shares her expertise on selecting and maintaining rental inventory for wedding venues, emphasizing the importance of aesthetics, meeting client expectations, and streamlining operations. She highlights Chivari’s commitment to color consistency, personalized customer service, and proactive inventory management. Vanessa also breaks down current trends in rental furniture, stresses the need for timely orders, and explains how Chivari’s extensive geographic reach supports venues across the country. Through her consultation services, Vanessa helps venue owners make confident, informed decisions—demonstrating her dedication to quality and client success.

About Our Guest: 

Founded in 2007, Chivari has grown from a small, family-owned venture into one of the most respected and recognized names in the event furniture industry. Headquartered in the United States with an international footprint, Chivari specializes in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of high-quality event furniture, with a strong emphasis on their signature Chiavari chairs. Over the years, their catalog has expanded to include banquet tables, barstools, folding chairs, dance floors, accessories, and other stylish furnishings tailored to meet the demands of weddings, galas, corporate events, and luxury gatherings.

Chivari stands out in the industry for offering affordably luxurious products that blend timeless elegance with commercial-grade durability. Their team is dedicated to helping venues, rental companies, and event professionals source furniture that not only looks beautiful but also holds up to the demands of repeated use. Chivari's commitment to consistent color matching, high-quality materials, and innovative design solutions ensures that every piece delivered meets the highest standards.

Find Them Here: 

Phone: (305) 487-8960

Email: info@chivari.com

X: https://twitter.com/ChivariChair

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/chivaricompany/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chivari.co/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChiavariChairCompany/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDnrEWc1d5ZZVyLFckPFcDQ

In this episode of The Venue Rx podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Kyle LaBarre, a venue owner and industry coach, to explore his journey in the wedding venue business. Kyle shares his experience acquiring and transforming Black Oak, detailing the strategies he used to grow the venue, including refining sales processes and navigating challenges like liquor licensing in Texas.

Kyle discusses his transition into coaching, where he now helps venue owners optimize their sales techniques and overall business operations. He emphasizes the importance of prompt communication, leveraging automation, and striking the right balance between data-driven decisions and exceptional customer service. Additionally, Kyle discusses how his marketing company, Elevate Revenue Marketing, supports venue owners in generating leads and increasing revenue through strategic digital marketing. 

About Our Guest: 

Kyle LaBarre is the founder of Elevate Revenue Marketing and the host of The Venue Coach podcast, both dedicated to helping wedding venues increase sales through expert coaching, training, and digital marketing strategies. His journey began with a mission to enhance online marketing for Black Oak Wedding Venue, where he successfully implemented strategies to attract more leads and boost revenue.

Recognizing the effectiveness of his approach, Kyle expanded his services to support other wedding venues in strengthening their online presence, generating high-quality leads through SEO and ad management, and optimizing their sales processes. Today, he plays a key role in shaping the growth and direction of Elevate Revenue Marketing, equipping venue owners with the strategies and tools they need to thrive. While he wears many hats, his primary focus remains on helping venues maximize their sales opportunities and achieve long-term success in an increasingly competitive industry.

Find Him Here: 

Website: https://www.elevaterevmarketing.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theweddingvenuecoach/

Facebook: facebook.com/thevenuecoach

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6sYvJ2Nhi9xn2cwfkjvuBu?si=b04054ac580e4ae6

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Colleen Carswell, a seasoned fractional Chief Operating Officer with extensive experience in the wedding and events industry. With a deep understanding of business operations and leadership, Colleen shares invaluable insights on the mindset shifts necessary for small business owners to scale successfully.

She dives into the common mental roadblocks entrepreneurs face, including challenges with money mindset, control, and delegation, and explains how overcoming these hurdles can unlock new levels of growth. Colleen also introduces the concept of "stay reviews"—an alternative to traditional performance or exit reviews—that fosters open communication, strengthens team dynamics, and helps retain top talent.

Beyond mindset, Colleen offers practical, actionable strategies for optimizing business operations. She discusses the power of time audits in identifying inefficiencies, the importance of delegation, and how a blend of digital and analog tools can create a seamless workflow. She helps wedding and event professionals improve their efficiency, profitability, and long-term sustainability.

About Our Guest: 

Colleen Carswell is a seasoned business strategist, integrator, and speaker with over 17 years of experience in hospitality and corporate sales. As a fractional Chief Operating Officer and systems expert, she has worked with a diverse range of organizations, including marketing agencies, tech startups, and health coaches, transforming disorganized operations into streamlined, scalable businesses.

Colleen specializes in optimizing workflows, implementing strategic tech solutions, and developing sustainable systems that drive efficiency and profitability. From comprehensive operational overhauls to targeted technology guidance, she has helped businesses successfully launch marketing campaigns, memberships, courses, and books.

Her mission is to create sustainable, scalable operations that allow business owners to focus on their passions while increasing profitability, productivity, and impact.

Find Her Here: 

Email: hello@structuredtoscale.com

Website: https://structuredtoscale.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/colleencarswell_

Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@colleencarswell

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-carswell/

In this episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin welcomes back Alan Berg, a leading expert in wedding venue sales, marketing, and business strategy. Alan shares his insights on the ever-changing wedding industry, focusing on how venues can adapt to shifting consumer behaviors and expectations.

A key topic of discussion is the impact of generational differences, particularly among Millennials (Gen Y) and Gen Z couples. Alan highlights how these younger generations approach wedding planning differently, relying heavily on digital research, online reviews, and instant communication. He stresses the importance of reducing friction in the sales process by ensuring venues provide clear, accessible information and respond quickly and effectively to inquiries.

Alan also discusses the need for venues to refine their communication strategies, offering seamless and personalized interactions that build trust and engagement. In an increasingly competitive market, he explains, the venues that prioritize customer experience—through fast responses, tailored messaging, and user-friendly digital platforms—will stand out and attract more bookings.

Alan provides actionable advice on how wedding venues can enhance their marketing, improve their client interactions, and ultimately, secure more business by aligning their strategies with the expectations of today’s tech-savvy couples.

About Our Guest: 

Alan Berg, CSP, is a renowned speaker, author, and business consultant specializing in the wedding and events industry. With over 25 years of experience, he has become a trusted advisor to businesses aiming to enhance their sales and marketing strategies. Alan has authored seven books and hosts the "Wedding Business Solutions" podcast, where he shares insights on business growth and client engagement. Recognized as a Global Speaking Fellow, he has been listed among the "Top 100 Speakers to Watch in 2025" for the third consecutive year. His expertise lies in providing actionable guidance that helps businesses increase profitability and achieve sustainable growth.

Find Him Here: 

Phone: 732-422-6362

Email: alan@alanberg.com

Website: https://alanberg.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alanberg/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanberg/

In this episode of The Venue RX podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with marketing expert Kai McInnes to explore the power of advertising for wedding venues. Kai shares his journey from managing marketing and sales at his family’s venue, The BarnYard, to co-founding The Wedding Marketers, a marketing agency dedicated to helping venues attract newly engaged couples through highly targeted advertising campaigns.

Throughout the conversation, Kai dives into the advantages of using paid ads over traditional wedding directories, explaining how strategic advertising can generate higher-quality leads and drive more bookings. He breaks down key performance metrics that every venue should track—such as cost per lead, conversion rates, and return on ad spend—highlighting how data-driven decisions can optimize marketing efforts.

Jonathan and Kai also explore the differences between the UK and US wedding markets, touching on cultural variations in booking behaviors and marketing approaches. Kai introduces the concept of “twilight weddings,” a popular trend in the UK that offers a later ceremony start time with an evening-focused reception, and discusses how venues can leverage creative packages like this to differentiate themselves. Beyond ads, Kai emphasizes the importance of authentic engagement and a comprehensive marketing strategy that nurtures leads from first contact to final booking.

About Our Guest: 

Kai McInnes, Co-Founder of The Wedding Marketers, developed a deep understanding of the wedding industry while working at his family’s venue, The BarnYard. In 2020, he took over marketing and sales, driving exponential growth while maintaining exceptionally high profit margins. Through refining his strategies, he created a proven framework that other venues can replicate to achieve similar success. Now, through The Wedding Marketers, he empowers venue owners with the tools and systems needed to accelerate growth, increase bookings, and maximize profitability.

Find Him Here: 

Email: kai@theweddingmarketers.com

Website: https://www.theweddingmarketers.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theweddingmarketers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWeddingMarketers

In this week's episode of The Venue Rx podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Emily Walleman, a seasoned marketing strategist and Google Ads expert, to explore powerful marketing techniques for venue owners. Emily shares her journey from wedding planning to founding her own marketing agency, highlighting key lessons learned along the way.

She breaks down essential marketing metrics, including ROAS (Return on Ad Spend) and EPL (Expected Profit per Lead), and discusses how tracking these numbers can transform a venue’s advertising strategy. Emily emphasizes the importance of high-converting landing pages, effective tracking and reporting, and the critical first steps new venue owners should take when launching Google Ads campaigns.

With a passion for educating venue owners, Emily’s company is dedicated to helping them maximize their advertising budgets, increase visibility, and understand the fundamentals that drive long-term business success.

About Our Guest: 

Emily Walleman is the founder and CEO of Munde Marketing, a digital marketing agency specializing in scaling campaigns, building profitable strategies, and maximizing online visibility. With experience working with businesses of all sizes, she focuses on Google Ads, SEO, and comprehensive marketing strategies to drive engagement and increase sales. Emily and her team help clients achieve high returns on ad spend, generate leads, and enhance brand awareness.

Find Her Here: 

Website: https://mundemarketing.com/

Book A Call: https://mundemarketing.hbportal.co/schedule/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilywalleman

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-walleman/

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with marketing expert Heidi Yarger to explore the crucial role of branding and marketing in the wedding venue industry. Heidi highlights the power of storytelling and the necessity of a strong online presence, emphasizing that venues must craft a compelling brand narrative to connect with their ideal couples.

Heidi shares her expertise on developing a cohesive branding strategy, stressing that every touchpoint—from a venue’s website to its social media presence—should be intentional and aligned with its target audience. She provides actionable insights on conducting brand and website audits, helping venue owners identify gaps and areas for improvement. Heidi highlights essential fixes, such as repairing broken links, optimizing social media bios for clarity and consistency, and improving website navigation to enhance the client experience. Additionally, she offers valuable resources and practical tools to help venue owners refine their brand identity, elevate their marketing efforts, and stand out in an increasingly competitive market.

About Our Guest: 

Heidi Yarger is Founder and Creative Director of Spitfiregirl. For the past 16 years, she’s been the not-so-secret-weapon for some of the biggest names in the wedding industry. With strategic branding and captivating design, she and her team have helped award-winning luxury event planners, wedding photographers, floral designers, invitation designers, bridal dress designers, celebrity makeup artists, sought-after wedding venues like Camp Lucy and High Frontier, and top blogs like Style Me Pretty, Ruffled, and Rocky Mountain Bride elevate their brand visibility, amplify their online presence, and maximize their revenue potential.

Blending deep industry insight and digital branding expertise with honesty, humor, and a bit of “spitfire” - Heidi ensures your audience is educated and entertained. Her immersive, no-nonsense approach has made her a sought-after speaker at WeWed, The Coterie Retreat, Bridal Show Producers International, Rooted in the Rockies, and a repeat speaker at Altitude Summit. Her design work has been spotlighted in Print Magazine, How Design, and Logo Lounge, with additional features in Canvas Rebel, Bold Journey, The Everygirl, and California Home & Design.

Find Her Here: 

Email: heidi@spitfiregirldesign.com 

Website: www.spitfiregirldesign.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespitfiregirl/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidiyarger/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thespitfiregirl/

This week on The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Elizabeth Solaru, a former microbiologist who transformed her passion into a thriving career as a luxury cake designer. Elizabeth shares her inspiring journey from science to entrepreneurship, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the luxury wedding and events industry. She dives into the key strategies that helped her build a world-renowned brand, from leveraging media exposure to fostering emotional connections with clients. With a focus on resilience, networking, and meticulous attention to detail, Elizabeth provides invaluable insights for aspiring luxury brand owners looking to stand out in a competitive market.

About Our Guest: 

Elizabeth Solaru is an internationally renowned luxury cake designer, entrepreneur, and founder of Elizabeth’s Cake Emporium, a globally recognized brand known for creating exquisite, bespoke wedding and celebration cakes. With a background in microbiology and a successful career as a headhunter before venturing into the world of cake artistry, Elizabeth has become one of the most sought-after cake designers in the luxury events industry.

Her signature style combines intricate sugarcraft, elegant designs, and flawless craftsmanship, making her cakes a favorite among royalty, celebrities, and high-profile clients worldwide. She has won multiple awards for her work, including recognition as one of the world’s top wedding cake designers by prestigious publications.

Beyond cake artistry, Elizabeth is a respected speaker, educator, and author. She regularly shares her expertise at international industry events, training aspiring cake designers and event professionals. Her book, Opulencia: Artisan Baking & Sugarcraft, showcases her signature luxury cake designs and techniques.

Elizabeth’s work has been featured in top-tier publications like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Tatler, and Brides, and she has appeared on television shows such as BBC’s The Apprentice and Food Network’s Extreme Cake Makers. She continues to innovate and inspire in the world of luxury cake design, setting new standards for excellence and creativity.

Find Her Here: 

Email: elizabeth@luxurybusinessemporium.com 

Website: https://luxurybusinessemporium.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-solaru-1ba901/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethscakeemporium/

This week onThe Venue RX Podcast, Jonathan Aymin sits down with Anja Winikka, founder of Freeda, to discuss the power of community in the wedding industry. Anja shares her journey from her time atThe Knot to creating Freeda, an exclusive network that connects established wedding professionals for collaboration, resource sharing, and support.

She highlights the importance of openness and vulnerability, especially when engaging with the next generation of industry professionals who bring fresh ideas and perspectives. Jonathan and Anja also explore how a strong community can help wedding professionals overcome challenges and grow sustainable businesses. Anja offers a behind-the-scenes look at Freeda’s application process, the impact of small group dynamics, and the value of in-person events in fostering deeper connections. She reinforces that success in the wedding industry isn’t just about talent and strategy, it’s about building meaningful relationships and learning from one another.

About Our Guest: 

Based in New York City, Anja Winikka brings nearly two decades of expertise in digital marketing, content strategy, PR, and brand partnerships within the weddings and events industry. Anja has a proven track record of growing both consumer and B2B audiences in the weddings and events space. She is widely recognized for her deep, two-sided industry knowledge and her ability to align audience segments with the right branding, PR, and content strategies. Her work has helped numerous brands 10X their organic reach and secure top-tier media placements in Harper’s Bazaar, BRIDES, The Knot, Martha Stewart Weddings, and more.

Previously, Anja was the founder of Maroo, a Y Combinator-backed payments platform designed specifically for the weddings and events industry. Within just one year of launch, she successfully onboarded over 7,000 small wedding businesses nationwide.

In 2024, Anja foundedFreeda, a private, invite-only network designed for established wedding and event business owners. Freeda connects members with their own curated advisory group of industry peers, offering a trusted space for collaboration, strategic guidance, and business growth. More than just a network, Freeda serves as a mastermind community where experienced professionals can share insights, navigate challenges, and accelerate their success through high-level discussions and exclusive resources.

Find Her Here: 

Email:hello@joinfreeda.com

Website:https://www.joinfreeda.com/

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/joinfreeda

Get ready for another incredible year with The Venue RX Podcast! In 2025, we’re diving even deeper into the business of weddings and events, bringing you expert insights, game-changing strategies, and real-world success stories to help venue owners and event professionals thrive.

Expect conversations with top industry leaders on topics like scaling your venue business, mastering sales and marketing, optimizing operations, and leveraging technology to enhance the client experience. We’ll also explore financial strategies, leadership development, and the latest industry trends to keep you ahead of the curve.

Whether you’re a seasoned venue owner or just starting out, The Venue RX Podcast is your go-to resource for practical advice, inspiring stories, and the tools you need to grow your business in 2025. Stay tuned for fresh episodes every week—this year is going to be bigger and better than ever!

In this week’s episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with David Short, the owner of Irvington Event Center in Indianapolis. David shares his inspiring journey from flipping houses to running a 12,000-square-foot co-working and event space. He opens up about the financial hurdles he faced—especially during the COVID-19 pandemic—and the creative strategies he used, including securing investors, to bring his vision to life. David highlights the venue’s versatile layout, which features a co-working space and a bar/event area, and emphasizes the value of a strong support network, effective marketing tactics, and the fulfillment he finds in mentoring others in the real estate industry.

About Our Guest: 

David Short is a visionary entrepreneur and real estate enthusiast based in Indianapolis. With a background in house flipping, David transitioned his expertise and passion into creating dynamic spaces that bring people together. As the owner of the Irvington Event Center, he has turned a 12,000-square-foot property into a thriving hub for co-working, events, and community engagement.

Beyond running the event center, David is deeply committed to mentoring others in the real estate industry. He finds fulfillment in sharing his knowledge and helping others succeed in their entrepreneurial pursuits. With a strong focus on building a supportive network and implementing effective marketing strategies, David has established himself as a leader in the event and real estate industries, inspiring others with his story of perseverance and innovation.

Find Him Here: 

Tel: (463) 209-6980 

Email: info@irvingtoneventcenter.com 

Website: https://www.irvingtoneventcenter.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/irvingtoneventcenter

Instagram: http://instagram.com/irvingtonevents

In this episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan sits down with Kate Kotecki, owner of Kotecki's Grandview Grove, a renowned wedding venue in New York. Kate shares her family's deep roots in the wedding industry, starting with her father’s catering business, and provides a behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of running a wedding venue. She opens up about the unique challenges of living on-site, maintaining work-life balance, and navigating client expectations. The discussion also covers key topics like effective staffing strategies, the role of community support, and evolving industry trends. For aspiring venue owners, Kate offers practical advice, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, respect, and building meaningful client relationships.

About Our Guest: 

Kate Kotecki, a second-generation entrepreneur, is the driving force behind Kotecki's Grandview Grove, a beloved family-owned wedding venue. As a devoted mother of three and a passionate venue owner, Kate seamlessly blends tradition, innovation, and resilience into every wedding experience. Her journey, marked by overcoming challenges and a commitment to growth, reflects her dedication to both personal and professional excellence.

At Kotecki's Grandview Grove, the focus is on more than just planning weddings—it’s about creating lifelong memories. Under Kate's leadership, the venue combines traditional charm with modern elegance, tailoring every detail to reflect each couple’s unique style and vision.

The venue itself serves as a canvas for love stories to unfold. From the picturesque gardens perfect for exchanging vows to the grand halls designed for joyous celebrations, every space at Kotecki’s is thoughtfully curated to deliver unforgettable moments for couples and their guests.

Find Her Here: 

Tel: (716) 674-2287

Email: info@koteckis.com 

Website: https://www.koteckis.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koteckis/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Koteckis/

Address: 4685 Seneca Street, West Seneca, New York 14224

In this episode of The Venue Rx podcast, host Jonathan Aymin interviews Kasie Romagno, the owner of The Armory Arts, a modern industrial venue in the heart of the Poconos. Kasie shares her journey from teaching to managing a wedding venue, drawing on her family's entrepreneurial roots in the concert and real estate industries. She reflects on the challenges of navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of maintaining low overhead costs, and the unique dynamics of running a family business. Kasie also discusses the value of clear client communication, the balance between aesthetic appeal and operational efficiency, and her vision for future growth in the wedding industry.

About Our Guest: 

Kasie's venue is more than just a space—it’s a piece of history, lovingly restored and transformed into an ideal setting for special occasions. Originally built in 1929, the building once served as the East Stroudsburg Armory, housing the National Guard and playing a significant role in the nation’s history. Today, it stands as one of only two nationally recognized historic buildings in East Stroudsburg, where the past is preserved and new memories are created.

What was once a shooting range on the lower level has been beautifully repurposed into a serene fern wall ceremony space—a lush, green oasis that provides a stunning backdrop for exchanging vows. The officer’s lounge, once a space for military leaders to strategize, has been reimagined as a luxurious bridal suite, offering a private and elegant area for preparations.

Kasie's connection to this venue is deeply personal, as it was initially created for her own wedding. Every detail was thoughtfully designed, blending the building’s rich history with a passion for hosting unforgettable events. As a family-owned business, the venue is dedicated to ensuring each wedding is truly special, offering a personalized experience that reflects the unique needs and vision of every couple.

Find Them Here: 

Website: https://thearmoryevents.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sightseedesign/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thearmoryevents/

In this episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Beau Davis, a driving force behind the development and management of venues in Lake Elsinore, California. Beau recounts his inspiring journey from the service industry to revitalizing venue spaces in the community, with a spotlight on Launch Pointe—a unique resort-style wedding venue and campground. The conversation dives into the remarkable growth of Lake Elsinore, the innovative strategies employed at Launch Pointe, and the vital role of community engagement. Beau also shares his insights on the power of delegation and collaboration, highlighting the importance in scaling operations and expanding to multiple locations.

About Our Guest: 

Beau Davis serves as the Community Services Assistant Director for the City of Lake Elsinore and the General Manager of Launch Pointe, where he leads diverse programs and teams dedicated to creating exceptional experiences for residents and visitors alike. Beau oversees initiatives such as park development, recreational programming, and community engagement efforts, all aimed at fostering vibrant spaces and meaningful connections within the community. His deep commitment to community growth and relationship-building reflects his passion and extensive experience in the field.

Launch Pointe is Southern California’s premier destination for unforgettable events, whether you’re planning a dream wedding, family reunion, or corporate retreat. Nestled along the Lake Elsinore waterfront, Launch Pointe offers a variety of overnight accommodations and recreational activities that guarantee your guests a fun, unique, and memorable experience.

Find Them Here: 

Tel: 951-674-3124, ext. 405

Email: bdavis@lake-elsinore.org 

Website: https://csevenues.com/launch-pointe/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/launchpointeweddings/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/launchpointeweddings/

In this episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin explores the concept of a venue's "DNA"—the distinctive traits and selling points that make a venue unique. Designed for aspiring venue owners and those in the early stages of their business, Jonathan presents a ten-step framework to identify and capitalize on these defining features. He highlights key aspects such as location, architectural design, amenities, historical significance, operational values, and brand identity. By understanding and leveraging these elements, venue owners can differentiate themselves in a competitive market and attract more clients effectively.

In this week's episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Joshua Pniewski of Forever Farms Winery for a candid discussion about the realities of owning and managing a wedding venue. Joshua pulls back the curtain on the significant effort and intricate logistics involved, revealing that venue ownership is much more than simply hosting events.

He dives into the challenges such as navigating zoning regulations, managing demanding clients, and addressing the impact of negative reviews. Joshua also tackles financial misconceptions about venue costs and highlights the importance of implementing effective marketing strategies. Additionally, he shares his experience integrating winery operations with the wedding venue, offering a unique perspective on balancing both aspects of the business.

About Our Guest: 

Joshua Pniewski is the owner of Forever Farms, a family-owned winery and private event venue located on 32 picturesque acres in Medina County, Ohio. Forever Farms specializes in creating customized wedding experiences in a rustic yet elegant barn setting, complete with amenities like a bridal suite and groom's lounge. The property also features over 600 blueberry bushes, adding unique charm to the venue's scenic surroundings.

In addition to hosting weddings and private events, Forever Farms produces a selection of wines, including distinctive blueberry and strawberry fruit wines, reflecting the farm's commitment to quality and local produce. Guests can enjoy wine tastings and even participate in winemaking classes, making it a destination for both celebrations and wine enthusiasts. With its serene backdrop of rolling hills and lush landscapes, Forever Farms offers an unforgettable experience for couples and their guests.

Find Them Here: 

Phone: (330) 667-0266

Website: https://foreverfarmsohio.com/ 

Email: events@foreverblueberrybarn.com 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foreverfarmsoh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foreverfarms/ 

Address: 8109 Branch Rd, Medina, OH, United States, Ohio

In this week's episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin is joined by Lindsay Barrows, a dynamic entrepreneur in the wedding industry. Lindsay shares her inspiring journey from an unexpected start in entrepreneurship to successfully managing three wedding venues and an event planning company. She reflects on overcoming challenges during the 2008 recession and emphasizes the importance of resilience, adaptability, and effective delegation. Lindsay dives into her operational philosophy of "automate, eliminate, and delegate," offering actionable insights for streamlining business processes. She also underscores the value of continuous learning, leveraging podcasts, and staying ahead with innovative marketing strategies. She provides a comprehensive look at what it takes to run a thriving wedding business.

About Our Guest: 

Lindsay Barrows, CEO (Chief Excitement Officer) of Custom Love Gifts & Events, has been a prominent figure in the wedding industry since 2010. In addition to founding Custom Love, she has established five other businesses within the wedding field, including All in the Details Event Planning, Something Borrowed by CLG Event Rentals, Mountain Mist Farm Wedding Venue, Wildflower Event Center, and The Loyston at Coppertop Estates. Lindsay is a professional speaker, having presented six times at the Wedding MBA Conference and the Event Industry Expo. She holds an MBA and a secondary Master’s degree in Human Resources from West Virginia University. She is also a Board Member of the Smoky Mountain Wedding Association. Lindsay is passionate about creating unforgettable wedding experiences, with her favorite moments being the First Look and seeing the wedding dress a client chooses. Outside of work, Lindsay enjoys spending time with her two daughters, cats, cheese, and her husband.

Find Her Here: 

Tel: 865.269.6705

Email: info@customlovegifts.com 

Website: https://www.customlovegifts.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CustomLOVEgifts/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/customlovegifts/?hl=en

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@customlovegifts?_t=8kWATatwWPm&_r=1

In this episode, Jonathan dives into the power of scarcity as a sales strategy to increase wedding bookings at venues. He examines different types of scarcity, including fear-driven examples like the toilet paper rush during COVID, seasonal phenomena like pumpkin spice lattes, and exclusivity-based scarcity, which he highlights as particularly effective for wedding venues. Jonathan breaks down several scarcity tactics: quantity-based (limited availability of dates), time-sensitive (short-term offers), social proof (leveraging testimonials), geographical (emphasizing unique venue features), and seasonal (adjusting pricing strategies). He highlights the importance of transparent communication and educating couples about wedding costs to foster urgency and drive bookings. If you are a new or existing wedding venue owner and want a professional team to operate and mangage your venue business click here! https://www.cseventservices.com Thanks for checking out The Venue RX! Where we document and share best practices for owning & operating profitable world class venues!

In this episode of The Venue Rx podcast, host Jonathan Aymin welcomes Dana Kadwell, a seasoned venue owner and educator, to discuss her transition from hands-on management to strategic leadership. Dana explores how adapting to shifting client expectations and implementing structured processes have been key to her success. She shares insights on effective hiring, delegation, and the importance of understanding personal strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, Dana offers actionable advice on balancing a personal touch with operational efficiency and creating a collaborative, transparent team culture for sustainable growth in the events industry.

About Our Guest: 

Dana Kadwell began her career teaching high school chemistry and physics before discovering her true passion in the events and hospitality industry. Today, she co-owns and operates three successful event businesses and leads Hustle & Gather, a consulting firm she runs with her sister, Courtney. Together, they also host the Hustle & Gather Podcast, sharing strategies for building profitable businesses and thriving teams.

As a speaker, Dana specializes in company culture and personal growth, drawing on her ability to connect with others, simplify complex ideas, and leverage her keen organizational skills. Over the past 15 years, she and Courtney have built thriving businesses in Raleigh, North Carolina, earning accolades like NACE National Member of the Year.

Through Hustle & Gather, Dana inspires entrepreneurs to dream big, take bold leaps, and create impactful teams, helping hospitality businesses increase profitability while fostering a culture that’s both enjoyable and productive.

Find Her Here: 

Website: https://www.hustleandgather.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hustleandgather/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hustle-gather-podcast-consulting

Download Template: SOP Template

In this episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Katherine Montes, the owner of Continuum Art, a multi-functional event space and art gallery in downtown Hendersonville. Katherine shares her journey of transforming a historic warehouse into a vibrant hub that blends art, events, and tattoo studios. She discusses her approach to pricing, event management, and balancing the creative and operational aspects of her business. Katherine also sheds light on the challenges she’s faced, from preserving the integrity of the artwork during events to navigating leasing and permitting hurdles. Her story provides valuable insights into the complexities of running a multi-purpose venue and highlights the importance of adaptability and building strong community connections.

About Our Guest: 

Katherine Montes is the owner of Continuum Art in Hendersonville, NC, a creative and versatile space that combines an art gallery, event venue, and tattoo studio. As a practicing artist herself, Katherine specializes in Neo-Traditional and Realism tattoo designs, offering custom commissions and pre-designed art pieces. Her studio within Continuum reflects her artistic passions and commitment to creativity. 

In addition to her tattoo artistry, Katherine actively engages with the local community through events such as "Drink & Draw," where she leads art classes that cater to both beginners and advanced participants. These events highlight her dedication to fostering a welcoming and inspiring environment for artistic expression​. 

Find Them Here: 

Tel: 828-435-3300

Email: questions@continuumartnc.com

Website: https://www.continuumartnc.com/studios/rentals

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ContinuumArtNC/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/continuumtattoo

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAs6wFN97kRlEDbh_mRtjTg

In this episode, Jonathan shares key insights from his experience at Wedding MBA 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Reflecting as both an attendee and exhibitor, he highlights three essential takeaways:

Tailoring Advice to Your Business
Industry advice isn’t one-size-fits-all. Jonathan stresses the importance of applying strategies in a way that aligns with your venue’s unique goals, market, and clientele.

Networking with Purpose
Active engagement at events is invaluable. By setting clear goals, participating fully, and following up with new contacts, you can turn networking into lasting relationships and business opportunities.

Adapting to Industry Evolution
With the wedding industry constantly changing, staying informed is critical. Jonathan emphasizes the value of joining organizations like the Wedding and Event Venue Association (WEVA), which provide tailored support, education, and resources for venue owners and operators.

https://www.wevahub.com

In this episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Mandi Young, owner of Juniper Gardens, a breathtaking garden wedding venue in southwest Missouri. Mandi opens up about her journey into venue ownership, highlighting the venue's distinctive mid-century modern design and the challenges she has overcome along the way. She shares personal anecdotes, including the meaningful story behind the venue's fireplace, and reflects on her experiences as a mother with a background in technical writing and project management. Mandi also dives into best practices for managing a wedding venue, highlighting the importance of fostering a warm and personalized experience for every couple.

About Our Guest: 

Juniper Gardens is a family-owned and operated business established by Mandi and Jesse Young. Their children, June and Carter, are also occasionally seen around the property, adding to the venue's welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere.

Mandi oversees the daily operations, social media, and marketing for the business. Her inspiring journey includes becoming a teen mom to a premature baby, earning multiple degrees, working as a project manager, renovating several homes with Jesse, and ultimately creating Juniper Gardens. She brings her passion for design, gardening, problem-solving, and mid-century modern aesthetics to every aspect of the venue.

Jesse and his team constructed both Juniper Gardens locations and continue to play a key role in ongoing improvements and projects, ensuring the venue maintains its exceptional standards.

Find Them Here: 

Email: events@junipergardens417.com

Website: https://junipergardens417.com/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/junipergardens/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/junipergardens417

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/junipergardens417/

In this episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin interviews Krisann Blanchard and her father, Fohn Bendele, the owners of Sparrow Field Estate Wedding, a Texas venue located just 30 minutes west of San Antonio. They share their inspiring journey of building a wedding venue from Krisann’s own wedding experience, highlighting the unique challenges and joys of a family-run business. With insights into balancing family roles, fostering open communication, and creating a whimsical outdoor space, Krisann and Fohn provide a behind-the-scenes look at their collaborative spirit and entrepreneurial endeavors, including a farm-to-table business and candle-making venture.

About Our Guest: 

Sparrow Field Estate is a family-owned wedding and events venue operated by Fohn and Jana Bendele in the picturesque countryside of south-central Texas. The idea for the venue began when their oldest daughter, Krisann, dreamed of getting married at her childhood home. Two years later, after their twins left for college, that dream began to take shape. With countless family meetings, construction projects, and renovations, Sparrow Field Estate has now become a reality, with each family member playing a role in crafting an unforgettable experience for the couples who celebrate there.

The venue includes everything needed to make a wedding day special: a scenic field with grazing longhorns, a sparkling pond, a grand white reception tent, and a charming bridal suite.

Find Them Here: 

Address: 1175 SH-173 N Hondo, TX 78861

Tel: (830) 741-1129

Email: hello@sparrowfieldestate.com

Website: http://sparrowfieldestate.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparrowfieldestate/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557437662816

In this week’s episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin welcomes venue coach Bonnie Hawthorne, who shares her inspiring journey from military service to becoming the owner and operator of multiple event venues. Bonnie discusses the obstacles she encountered, including navigating complex zoning laws, and emphasizes the importance of careful planning and education for those entering the venue business. She provides valuable insights on designing venue packages that resonate with clients, building strong vendor partnerships, and leveraging CRM tools to enhance operational efficiency. Her shift into coaching reflects her dedication to equipping new venue owners with the skills and support they need to thrive in the events industry.

About Our Guest: 

Bonnie Hawthorne is an accomplished venue consultant with over 11 years of firsthand experience as both the owner and manager of a highly successful wedding planning and design company. In addition, she has successfully operated three wedding and event venues. Her primary focus is on helping new venue owners establish profitable and sustainable businesses.

A venue consultant, like Bonnie, plays a crucial role in guiding both new and existing venue owners through the business aspects of their operations. From assisting with initial setup to providing strategic guidance to enhance operations, Bonnie prioritizes the business side, enabling venue owners to concentrate on essential areas, such as managing day-to-day operations and delivering exceptional client service without unnecessary interruptions.

With her own experiences as a venue owner, Bonnie intimately understands the challenges that come with running a venue. Her mission is to provide venue owners with the support and insights needed to create, manage, and sustain their businesses. Drawing on her extensive knowledge and industry expertise, Bonnie helps transform envisioned venues into profitable, well-managed spaces. Her ultimate goal is to equip clients with essential tools, resources, and strategies, along with a well-crafted brand and business plan, to turn their dream venues into a tangible reality.

Find Them Here: 

Website: https://www.bonnierhawthorne.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brhawthorneteaches

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brhawthorneteaches/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8rJW3SEa6pQJ1E25sMfRPg

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/brhawthorneteaches/

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Leah Nadu, owner of Historic Ashland, to explore her inspiring journey from the corporate world to successful venue ownership. Leah reflects on how her entrepreneurial family background influenced her path, the challenges she encountered in launching her business, and the emotional demands of managing a wedding venue. She shares valuable insights on understanding one’s strengths and passions, achieving balance between personal and professional life, and building a strong reputation. Leah also discusses her unwavering commitment to her clients and her vision for expanding Historic Ashland’s offerings beyond weddings.

About Our Guest: 

Leah is a seasoned events professional with a strong academic background, holding a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Temple University and an MBA from Elizabethtown College. In 2017, she co-founded Historic Ashland, a premier event venue where she serves as General Manager. Leah oversees every aspect of the business, from operations, finances, and property management to social media, marketing, and sales. Her expertise extends beyond weddings, as she also directs corporate and social events at Historic Ashland. Recently, Leah launched an educator brand under Historic Ashland, offering speaking engagements, presentations, and training sessions to share her insights and experience with the wider industry.

Find Them Here: 

Website: http://www.historicashlandevents.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoricAshland/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@historicashland

Instagram: ​​https://www.instagram.com/HistoricAshland/

X: https://twitter.com/historicAshland
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/historicashland/

In this episode of The Venue RX podcast, Jonathan Aymin interviews Kelsey and Tony Tenamore, the owners of Vezalay Mountain Venue in Dahlonega, Georgia. The couple shares their transition from the restaurant industry to running a wedding venue, offering insights into the challenges they faced and the strategies they've developed along the way. They emphasize the importance of clear communication with clients and careful strategic planning, which have been key to their success.

Kelsey and Tony also discuss their approach to improving the client experience by offering in-house services and all-inclusive packages, making it easier for couples to plan their weddings. They explain their decision to focus on social media marketing rather than traditional platforms like WeddingWire, highlighting the importance of authenticity and direct engagement with their audience. In addition to their business strategies, the Tenamores talk about balancing work, marriage, and family life while managing their venue, offering advice to others in similar situations.

About Our Guest: 

Kelsey and Tony Tenamore's journey to opening their own wedding venue began when fate brought them together while working in the service industry at a bar/restaurant in 2012. Though their careers eventually took different paths, their shared passion for hospitality would later unite them in a new venture. Kelsey moved on to work in corporate event planning for a large medical company, gaining valuable experience in organizing large-scale events. Meanwhile, Tony continued bartending, using the opportunity to learn the inner workings of small businesses and prepare for his future entrepreneurial goals.

As Tony's bartending career progressed, regular customers began requesting his services for private events, including weddings and parties. After working several small events, Tony quickly realized there was a significant demand in the market for his expertise. This sparked the idea of starting their own business, blending Kelsey's event planning skills with Tony's knowledge of the service industry. From this, their vision for creating a wedding venue was born.

Find Them Here: 

Address: 520 Hwy 52W, Dahlonega, GA 30533 

Email: info@vezalay.com  

Website: http://www.vezalay.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/vezalaymountainvenue

Facebook: http://facebook.com/vezalay

In this episode of The Venue RX Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Helen Christopher, the owner of Brookledge, a wedding venue in Upstate New York. Helen shares her journey of transforming the property from a former girls' summer camp into a popular wedding destination. She talks about the challenges she faced, such as navigating local regulations and standing out in a competitive market, as well as her successes, including a high booking rate. Helen stresses the importance of embracing a venue's unique character, building strong vendor relationships, and creating a supportive community among venue owners. She also shares best practices for team management and highlights the power of collaboration in the wedding industry.

About Our Guest: 

Helen, a former elementary school teacher turned wedding venue owner, now runs Brookledge, a serene retreat in Upstate New York. In 2021, she purchased the property, a former girls' summer camp, and transformed its 60 acres into a haven of cabins, glamping tents, and event spaces. As the owner, Helen focuses on helping guests reconnect with nature and unwind from their busy lives. She has been featured in the Times Union, Ramble & Roam blog, and several podcasts. Helen also contributed to the best-selling book Hospitable Hosts 2 and co-hosts the podcast Wed & Bed. She lives with her family and two dogs in what was once Brookledge’s nurse’s office, embracing camp life every day.

Find Them Here: 

Tel: 518-937-7730

Email: brookledge518@gmail.com  

Website: http://www.brookledgeny.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brookledgeny

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brookledgeny/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/discover/brookeledge-cabin

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/brookledgeny/

In this episode of The Venue RX Podcast, host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Veronica Thompson to share her journey in the wedding industry and her vision for her new venue, The Legacy at Willow Pond in Suffolk Virginia. Veronica discusses the challenges she faced during the venue's construction, especially in securing financing amid the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasizes the importance of perseverance, community support, and creating intentional event spaces. Drawing on her extensive background as an event planner, Veronica highlights the value of strategic planning and building strong industry connections. She also offers valuable insights into the complexities of venue management and underscores the significance of resilience in achieving long-term business success.

About Our Guest: 

Veronica Thompson is a seasoned wedding planner from Hampton Roads, Virginia, with decades of experience crafting one-of-a-kind, sophisticated events. As a planner herself, she knew precisely how to curate every element necessary to create the perfect venue. For Veronica, the excitement lies in building something from the ground up and being deeply involved in every aspect of the process.

The Legacy at Willow Pond, nestled in the scenic countryside of rural Suffolk, Virginia, in the Hampton Roads area, is a breathtaking modern, French country-inspired wedding and event venue. Thoughtfully designed by co-owner and multi-award-winning Wedding, Event Planner, and Designer, Veronica Thompson, the venue is more than just a space; it's an experience meant to make any special occasion truly unforgettable.

With a spacious event hall accommodating up to 200 guests, The Legacy at Willow Pond offers services tailored to meet the needs of weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. The 23 acres of picturesque grounds exude natural charm and timeless elegance, providing the perfect backdrop for any event. Specializing in creating personalized, customized celebrations that reflect each client’s unique vision, the venue is committed to excellence and sustainability practices. The Legacy at Willow Pond is more than just a venue; it's a partner in crafting cherished memories, offering everything from meticulous event planning to stunning décor and world-class catering.

Find Them Here: 

Tel: (757) 579-0047

Email: events@legacyatwillowpond.com 

Website: http://www.legacyatwillowpond.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacyatwillowpondva

Instagram: https://instagram.com/legacyatwillowpondva

In this week's episode of The Venue Rx podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Casey Hoffman, a successful wedding venue owner of The Brickyard on Main in Marion, Ohio, to explore best practices in venue management. Casey shares her journey from a background in catering to launching her first venue, Brickyard on Main, followed by Urban 501. The discussion highlights the importance of building partnerships, the challenges of renovating historic spaces, and strategies for attracting clients. Casey highlights the importance of clear communication, community involvement, and authentic marketing, while also emphasizing the need to treat both clients and staff well to maintain a successful business. 

About Our Guest: 

Casey Hoffman is the go-to person at The Brickyard on Main, an elegant urban-style wedding venue nestled in downtown Marion, Ohio. With a talent for understanding each couple’s vision, Casey is passionate about transforming those ideas into reality. Known for her laid-back and warm approach, she ensures that every planning meeting is relaxed and enjoyable, while focusing on creating the perfect wedding experience. Casey is excited to get to know each couple and bring every detail of their dream day to life, all within The Brickyard's sophisticated blend of modern design and historic charm, making it the ideal venue for life’s most special moments.

Find Them Here: 

Phone Number: (740) 251-2559

Email: hello@brickyardonmain.com

Website: https://brickyardonmain.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brickyardonmain/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brickyardonmain/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebrickyard

In this week's episode of The Venue RX Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Karen and Janet, owners of Seashell Events in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. They dive into their journey into the wedding venue industry, showcasing the unique features of Seashell Events, including its stunning beachfront location and customizable wedding packages. Karen shares insights on the importance of fostering strong vendor relationships, the challenges of running a blank canvas venue, and their dedication to creating an inclusive space for all couples. The episode also highlights the value of community engagement, effective marketing strategies, and how the wedding industry continues to evolve.

About Our Guests: 

In 2019, Janet and Karen were thrilled to purchase Seashell Cottages, bringing with them over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Since 2008, they have welcomed thousands of travelers for beach vacations as owner/operators of multiple properties. Known as "The Shell," their venue has long been cherished as a beloved summer vacation destination for those who love all that Old Orchard Beach has to offer.

After feeling the magic of The Shell themselves, Janet and Karen realized that after 13 years together, they wanted to get married on the beach in Old Orchard Beach and celebrate with friends and family on their property. On June 18th, 2021—exactly 15 years from the day they met—they tied the knot, and it was during this celebration that the vision for Seashell Events was born. Now, they are excited and honored to share the magic of this special property with couples for their wedding celebrations.

Find Them Here: 

Phone Number: 207-934-5623

Email: info@seashellcottagesoob.com 

Website: https://seashellcottagesoob.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seashellcottagesoob

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seashellcottagesevents/

In this episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Bobby Bramhall, an entrepreneur with a unique background in professional sports, law, and the wedding venue industry. Bobby talks about his transition from professional baseball player to sports law professor and consultant, eventually becoming the owner of two wedding venues: Holston Springs and The Stables at Strawberry Creek. He shares the challenges and successes he's encountered, highlighting the importance of strategic hiring, effective marketing, and understanding client needs. Bobby offers valuable insights into running successful wedding venues and emphasizes the role of experience and relationships in driving success.

About Our Guest: 

Bobby Bramhall is an Adjunct Professor of Sports Law at the University of Tennessee College of Law and a sports attorney. He co-founded the Athlete Licensing Company and previously served as an Assistant Athletics Director at Texas A&M. Before entering law, Bobby had a successful career as a professional baseball player. As a standout left-handed pitcher at Rice University, he earned 2nd Team All-American honors and competed in two consecutive College World Series. Drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 2007 MLB Draft, Bobby spent seven seasons playing for four MLB organizations, as well as in Puerto Rico’s La Liga de Béisbol Profesional Roberto Clemente (LBPRC). He later pursued a law degree at the University of Tennessee and is now licensed to practice in Tennessee. In addition to his legal career, Bobby owns and operates two event venues, Holston Springs and The Stables at Strawberry Creek.

Find Them Here: 

The Stables at Strawberry Creek:

Tel: 979-777-0882

Email: strawberrycreekstables@gmail.com 

Website: https://strawberrycreektn.com/index.html

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strawberrycreekknoxville/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strawberrycreekknoxville

Holston Springs Venue & Lodge:

Tel: 979-777-0882

Email: holstonsprings@gmail.com 

Website: https://www.holstonsprings.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holstonsprings/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holstonsprings

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Dr. Inderpal Randhawa, a physician and scientist specializing in transplant immunology and food allergies, who made a bold transition into the wedding venue industry during the pandemic. Dr. Randhawa shares his inspiring journey from the medical field to entrepreneurship, highlighting the critical role of data-driven decision-making and effective time management across both careers. He discusses how he balances managing multiple businesses, the unique challenges of the wedding industry, and his dedication to creating exceptional client experiences. Dr. Randhawa also shares his innovative approach to merging his medical expertise with event management. 

About Our Guest: 

Dr. Inderpal Randhawa serves as the Medical Director of the Children’s Pulmonary Institute at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital, where he has held various leadership roles for over a decade. He is also the Program Director of the Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship at UCI and Miller Children’s & Women’s. Dr. Randhawa has spearheaded several key initiatives, earning regional and national recognition, including the creation of the Sickle Cell Pulmonary Center, Disease-Specific Certification in Pediatric Asthma from The Joint Commission, and the Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia Center.

A highly regarded specialist in internal medicine, pediatrics, immunology, allergy medicine, and pulmonology, Dr. Randhawa has over 15 years of experience. His focus lies in the research and treatment of 'orphan' diseases—areas of medicine that have seen limited progress. As the President and Chief Medical Officer of the Translational Pulmonary & Immunology Research Center (TPIRC), a nonprofit in Long Beach, California, Dr. Randhawa leads a collaborative approach to treating patients with these rare diseases. He is also the founder of TPIRC’s Southern California Food Allergy Institute, dedicated to providing innovative and safe treatment options for the six million children in the U.S. affected by food allergies. In recognition of his work, Dr. Randhawa was named a Top Doctor by the Los Angeles Business Journal in both 2021 and 2022.

Find Them Here: 

Email: hello@randhawaranch.com

Website: https://csevenues.com/randhawa-ranch/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/randhawaranchweddings/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/randhawaranch

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/randhawaranchevents/

In this week's newseason of The Venue Owners Series, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with MaryBeth Romagnoli, owner of Windridge Estate, an Upstate New York wedding venue. MaryBeth shares her journey into the wedding venue industry and venue ownership. With a background in cultural anthropology and event planning, she discusses the evolution of her business, the challenges she has faced, and the operational systems she implemented for success. MaryBeth emphasizes the importance of thorough research, effective marketing strategies, and building a reliable team. She also highlights the rewarding aspects of her work, such as witnessing the joy of families during weddings. She offers valuable insights and practical advice for aspiring venue owners, highlighting the significance of planning, adaptability, and community connections.

About Our Guest: 

In 1804, ES Jackson purchased the land now known as Windridge Estate to build the Estate Home. When MaryBeth and her husband Jack acquired the property in 2002, they became the eighth family to care for it. As lifelong residents of Upstate New York, they were initially captivated by the incredible views and outdoor opportunities. 

MaryBeth and Jack always recognized the untapped potential of the previously untamed land. Once their children left the nest in 2014, they decided to dedicate themselves to transforming the property into something truly extraordinary. What began as a vision soon turned into a passionate project, as they meticulously planned and executed every detail to elevate the estate. They invested countless hours in landscaping, restoring, and enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings, ensuring that every corner of the estate reflected their commitment to excellence. Their efforts paid off, and since then, Windridge Estate has become a sought-after destination for weddings and special events, offering a breathtaking backdrop that continues to captivate couples and guests alike. MaryBeth and Jack take great pride in sharing the estate's beauty with others, knowing that their labor of love has turned Windridge into a place where unforgettable memories are made.

Find Them Here: 

Tel: 315-345-9174

Email: info@windridgeestate.com 

Website:https://windridgeestate.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/windridgeestate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/windridgeestate/ 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/windridge_estate/ 

In this week’s episode of the Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with marketing expert, CEO, industry educator and fellow Youtuber Jody-Ann Rowe to discuss sales and marketing strategies for wedding venues. Jody-Ann shares her entrepreneurial journey, stressing the importance of understanding client needs and effectively using online platforms like Pinterest and YouTube to drive business growth. She highlights the value of location-specific content and the necessity of clear, concise service descriptions. Jody-Ann also advises on the advantages of outsourcing specialized tasks and the critical role of tracking analytics. She offers practical insights for venue owners aiming to boost their online presence and client engagement.

About Our Guest: 

Jody-Ann Rowe, born to working-class parents in Jamaica, grew up with a strong belief in the value of hard work. She excelled in school, earned top grades, secured a university scholarship, and embarked on her career path. During university, she launched her first business, an online babysitting service-despite having no prior business experience. Though the venture failed, it taught her the importance of working smarter, not just harder.

Armed with lessons learned, Jody-Ann's next business, an Interactive Web Form Design company, succeeded. She has since applied these strategies to multiple ventures, including an online vintage purse store, a cake smash outfits store, The Event Certificate, EventPlanningTemplates.com, and FindYourBaker.com.

Her mission is to teach service-based business owners how to build their businesses online and turn clicks into clients, empowering them to increase revenue and gain more control over their success and life.

Find Her Here: 

Website: https://www.eventcertificate.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/eventcertificate 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eventcertificate 

Email: jody@eventcertificate.com

In this week's episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Jeremy Laban, owner of Wonder Rentals and Rustic Events, to explore the essential role rental companies play in the wedding and event industry. Jeremy shares his entrepreneurial journey and the expansion of his businesses, offering valuable insights for venue owners on how to strengthen partnerships with rental companies. They discuss best practices, including the benefits of maintaining a preferred vendor list, addressing logistical challenges, and ensuring physical access for setup and teardown. He also highlights the importance of communication and flexibility in scheduling to enhance client experiences. Additionally, Jeremy provides his perspective on managing rental logistics and navigating the evolving landscape of the industry.

About Our Guest: 

Jeremy entered the event rental industry by purchasing an existing business. At the time, he was working as a regular employee and feeling unfulfilled, eager to start his own venture but unsure how to begin. Since purchasing his rental business, he has quintupled its revenue, thanks in part to the foundation already in place—existing products, client relationships, a website, photos, and reviews. Jeremy's company specializes in higher-end, specialty rentals for weddings and events in San Diego and Riverside County, offering items like farm tables, chairs, lounge furniture, photo booths, market lights, and dance floors.

He focuses on building strong relationships with groups of vendors, knowing that making their jobs easier leads to a steady stream of new clients. With a strong focus on customer service and quality products, his company has continued to scale. 

Find Him Here: 

Website:https://www.rustic-events.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rusticurbanevents/?hl=en 

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/rustic-events-san-diego-2 https://www.weddingwire.com/biz/rustic-urban-events-murrieta/b6a1b2f6aef0be89.html

In this week's episode of The Venue Rx podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with SEO expert Nergis Yuksel to explore the crucial role of SEO in the wedding venue industry. Nergis, who shifted from wedding planning to SEO during the COVID-19 pandemic, discusses the importance of keyword research in understanding market trends and optimizing venue offerings. She shares practical advice on using tools like Google Keyword Planner and SEMrush for effective keyword research. Nergis also discusses the value of local SEO, high-quality content, and social media engagement, offering wedding venue owners actionable strategies to boost their online presence and attract more clients.

About Our Guest: 

Nergis Yuksel is a Wedding SEO consultant, mindfulness advocate, and digital nomad. A former wedding planner, she’s also a lover of Yorkshire tea, Ester & Erik candles, and a good disco playlist. Nergis offers a straightforward and clear approach to SEO, avoiding confusing technical jargon and even making the process fun.

She believes that every wedding business owner should understand the basics of SEO. Whether you want to handle it yourself or work with an SEO consultant, Nergis ensures you have the knowledge and confidence to evaluate the quality of the work.

Passionate about teaching SEO, Nergis empowers business owners with the skills to take control of their online presence, even when using her done-for-you services. Her approach is personalized and tailored, going beyond the typical advice of "just blog" to create a more effective SEO strategy.

Find Her Here: 

Website: https://www.nergisyuksel.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seowithnergis/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NergisYukselSEO 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/nergisseo/ 

In this week's episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin welcomes Danielle Hendon from 4 Corners CFO to discuss the importance of financial literacy for wedding venue owners and creative professionals. Danielle shares her journey from public accounting to becoming a fractional CFO, driven by her passion for helping business owners manage their finances effectively. She also discusses how to understand gross profit and net profit, the roles of bookkeepers and accountants, and the benefits of hiring offshore bookkeeping services. Danielle emphasizes the necessity of regular financial updates and reconciliations, and offers insights into cash versus accrual accounting methods.

About Our Guest: 

Danielle Hendon is the founder and owner of 4 Corners CFO, a firm dedicated to providing financial advisory services tailored to small business owners' needs and budgets. With a decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting, Danielle leverages her expertise to deliver "big business" financial analysis to entrepreneurs. Her goal is to help business owners enhance their livelihoods and create a lasting impact on their communities, moving beyond increasing corporate share prices to fostering sustainable growth for small businesses.

Find Her Here: 

Website: https://4cornerscfo.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-hendon/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4cornerscfo/

In this week's episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, Jonathan Aymin dives into the importance of accountability in business operations, especially within wedding venues. He offers practical advice on improving accountability in sales and operations teams, drawing inspiration from Domino's delivery tracking system. By implementing daily check-ins and leveraging technology for performance tracking, venues can significantly boost performance and customer satisfaction. Additionally, he highlights the necessity of understanding customer experiences and gathering post-wedding feedback, which are crucial for enhancing sales and reviews.

In this week's episode of The Venue Blueprint Series our hosts Jonathan Aymin and Lindsay Lucas discuss the intricacies of venue ownership. They discuss the startup phase, emphasizing the importance of taking deposits and strategic planning. The conversation also covers team building, defining roles, and using tools like Lucidchart and personality tests to understand team dynamics. They also explore institutional investments, scaling, and exit strategies for venue businesses. 

About Our Hosts: 

Lindsay Lucas: 

Website: https://thelindsaylucas.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelindsaylucas/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelindsaylucas/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thelindsaylucas/

The Venue Academy: https://shop.thelindsaylucas.com/checkout/cart 

Lindsay works directly with wedding venue owners, demystifying the process of running a profitable, sustainable wedding venue and guiding owners towards a business that suits their needs. Since 2016, Lindsay has assisted over 700 venue owners in securing funding, achieving sustainable growth, and navigating various challenges. Her client portfolio includes venues that have generated over $46 million in revenue over the past six years.

Jonathan Aymin 

Website:https://www.cseventservices.com/ 

https://csevenues.com/ 

https://www.thevenuerx.com/

https://www.wevahub.com/ 

Address: 251 North City Drive San Marcos, CA 92078

Email: venues@cseventservices.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-aymin-065aa679/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cseservices/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd5m3xiVauCEvQPPaVWraIg

Jonathan embarked on his journey into Venue Management with the launch of a single San Diego wedding venue. His path led him to expand his ventures to encompass multiple venues in multiple states, all the while trailblazing The Venue Rx Podcast/YouTube channel to ignite inspiration within the wedding professional community.

In addition, Jonathan serves as the visionary founder behind WEVA, the first national Wedding & Event Venue Association. This esteemed professional association is dedicated to venue owners and operators, offering unrivaled networking opportunities, valuable resources, and comprehensive education tailored to the venue industry.

In this week's episode of the Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Kerry Krull, founder of The Wedding App. Kerry shares her journey from event management to app development, inspired by a pivotal conference experience. She discusses how she used her own wedding as a beta launch for the app, highlighting features like real-time communication, guest interaction, and digital seating charts. Available on Apple and Google Play stores, the app aims to replace traditional wedding websites and invitations. Kerry also talks about her plans for future partnerships and funding.

About Our Guest: 

Kerry has been producing events from California to the Carolinas, managing high-end weddings, luxurious corporate events, conventions, fundraisers, and working with celebrities for concerts, festivals, and more.

With her background in entertainment, technology, and weddings, Kerry aims to deliver experiences beyond your wildest imagination through her extensive career in events, making your wedding dreams a reality. Bringing people together is at the heart of what inspires Kerry to merge her expertise in event management with technology in the wedding industry. 

Her app, The Wedding App, is an innovative and interactive platform designed to streamline communication between the couple, their wedding planner, vendors, and most importantly, their guests. As the first all-in-one solution for everyone involved in your special day, The Wedding App offers seamless features that enable couples and planners to provide efficient service. Guests benefit from a centralized space to communicate with the wedding party and coordinate social plans. The Wedding App eliminates the guesswork, ensuring a stress-free and organized wedding experience for everyone.

Find Her Here: 

Website:https://thewedding-app.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theweddingappusa/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089374887438

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Liene Stevens Founder and CEO of Think Splendid, a global wedding market research firm. Liene discusses the impact of inflation on wedding pricing and challenges posed by supply chain issues. She emphasizes the importance of understanding luxury clients' spending habits and values, focusing on exceptional guest experiences and the role of planners. The conversation also explores cultural and economic factors influencing luxury spending, including stealth wealth. She offers valuable insights and practical advice for managing stand out wedding venues that cater to high-end clients.

About Our Guest: 

Liene Stevens, founder and CEO of Think Splendid, is an author, speaker, and award-winning luxury business strategist and behavioral psychologist. Named by Special Events magazine as one of “12 Young Professionals to Watch,” her research on consumer behavior has been taught in the MBA curriculum at 41 universities worldwide and cited in over 30 scientific and academic journals.

Liene also founded Splendid Insights, the leading wedding market research firm publishing statistics on luxury and ultra-luxury wedding markets for HNW, VHNW, and UHNW brides and grooms. Before entering the wedding industry, she held a strategic development role as an NGO executive and led international high-stakes crisis management.

An expert on the business of weddings, Liene has appeared on numerous TV programs and in major media outlets such as The New York Times, Forbes, and The Economist. She serves on the Allied Council board for the National Society of Black Wedding and Event Professionals and has held positions with the International Live Events Association and the Wedding and Event Institute.

Liene authored Speak Now or Forever Hold Your Peace: Marketing Your Wedding Business in Today's World and Luxe Love: Marketing and Selling Luxury Weddings. Her third book, The Pricing Bible: The Art & Science of Getting Your Numbers Right, is forthcoming in October 2024.

Find Her Here: 

Website: https://www.thinksplendid.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinksplendid

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thinksplendid
Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thinksplendid/

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymins welcomes Gillian Tracey, the owner of Gillian Tracey design studio. She focuses on brand identity and website design for wedding venues. Gillian discusses how she got into the wedding industry and stresses the value of strategic and pragmatic design elements. Gillian covers topics such as the optimal timing for brand updates, the pivotal role of a robust brand base, and the importance of maintaining visual consistency. Jillian also provides insights on budgeting, do-it-yourself alternatives, and the integration of CRM systems. 

About Our Guest: 

Gillian Tracey is a web designer and brand expert with over 10 years of industry experience. She specializes in creating bespoke branding and websites that reflect the high quality of services, products, and client experiences. Gillian serves as a trusted partner, approaching each business with the mentality of a team member. Her process is thorough and unrushed – she takes the time to understand each client's needs, gain clarity, and envision ambitious goals for the future. Then, she brings everything together in visuals that capture all the good stuff. Gillian not only creates impactful and delightful experiences but also delivers top-quality work and finds joy in serving others through her craft.

Find Her Here: 

Email: hello@gilliantracey.com 

Website: https://www.gilliantracey.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gilliantraceydesign
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/gntracey/

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin welcomes Nicole and Jen, the creators of the Wedding Crasher app, to discuss its inception during the COVID-19 pandemic and their collaborative journey. They highlight the app's customizable event details and guest experiences, designed for both wedding professionals and couples. Jen shares her background as a wedding planner and her venture in establishing The Sky Room venue in North Carolina. The conversation dives into the app's development challenges, future enhancements, and its potential as a marketing tool for venues.

About Our Guest: 

Jen Shaefer and Nicole Reginelli met in 2013 while working at a Fortune 500 company. Their shared passion for events and entrepreneurship quickly bonded them, leading to many coffee dates where they dreamed of future ventures. Although they pursued separate paths for a few years, they reunited over a glass of wine in 2021. During this meetup, Jen pitched her idea for Wedding Crasher to Nicole, and the rest is history.

Born out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wedding Crasher App is revolutionizing the events industry, thoughtfully designed by a seasoned wedding planner. Our primary goal is to elevate the wedding guest experience by addressing their most frequently asked questions in one streamlined platform.

The Wedding Crasher App boasts an array of innovative features, including a comprehensive schedule of events, transportation details, a digital bar list, a menu tab, and a convenient searchable seating chart. This app aims to alleviate common stressors on the big day for both professionals and couples. It not only enhances the level of service provided but also opens up new avenues for wedding professionals to elevate their offerings and increase profitability.

Find Them Here: 

Website: https://www.weddingcrasherapp.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingcrasherapp/
Apple Downloads: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wedding-crasher/id6453683293

In this week's episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin welcomes Spencer Howard, the founder of Straight to the Points. Spencer shares insights on maximizing credit card sign-up bonuses and selecting cards with bonus categories that align with a business owner's spending habits. They explore how venue owners can leverage credit card points for both vacations and business expenses. Spencer also introduces tools like Card Pointers for tracking benefits and emphasizes the importance of understanding annual fees, reward space, and maintaining flexibility with travel plans. Spencer also touches on the competitive landscape for venues and how credit card points can fund honeymoons for couples. Additionally, he provides advice on managing employee credit cards and highlights the advantages of using credit cards over debit cards to earn points on business expenditures.

About Our Guest: 

Spencer Howard is a renowned expert in credit card loyalty programs and travel rewards. As the founder of Straight To The Points (STTP), Spencer has established the go-to resource for individuals eager to demystify credit card points and enjoy luxurious travel for business or leisure. After years of assisting family and friends with understanding credit card points, he launched STTP in 2017. Since then, he has been providing members with complimentary and premium content through his Award Alert newsletters, which now boast 21,000 members. STTP offers the latest information on everything from First and Business Class flight alerts to tutorials on effectively booking and securing flights using credit card points.

With nearly a decade of experience in travel writing, Spencer has contributed to multiple travel media outlets, including Upgraded Points, One Mile At A Time, God Save The Points, and The Points Guy. He also spent four years as editor-in-chief at 10xtravel.com, where he led a team of writers and editors to produce top-quality and breaking news in the travel industry.

Find Him Here: 

Website: https://straighttothepoints.co/

Email: spencer@straighttothepoints.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/straighttothepoints/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/straighttothepoints1

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-howard-82072710/ 

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Cindy Y Lo, the owner of Red Velvet and Strong Events. They dive into the event industry, emphasizing the creation of memorable experiences that align with clients' brands and deliver tangible results. Cindy discusses the specialized services her companies provide, the management of scope creep, and the significant impact of venue design on events. They explore the importance of venue layout, signage, and amenities, along with the challenges posed by urban venues and logistical considerations. She also highlights trends in personalized event elements and the growing need for versatile venue spaces.

About Our Guest: 

Cindy Y. Lo is an Entrepreneur, Professional Speaker & Author. She founded Red Velvet in 2002 with the mission to Outplan, Outplay, and Outparty! Red Velvet is a full-service experience agency that helps global brands ideate, design, and execute their vision. As an independent, woman, and minority-owned agency, RED VELVET prides itself on its diverse, detail-oriented team of creatives from various cultures, communities, and backgrounds. Under the leadership of CEO and Chief Event Strategist Cindy Y. Lo, the agency has been dedicated to generating genuine human connections through live experiences since its inception. 

As of August 2023, Cindy Y. Lo is also the new owner and CEO of Strong Events. Celebrating 33 years in business, Strong Events is the longest-running and largest warehouse for specialty event rentals and custom fabrication, serving the Texas Hill Country area.

Find Her Here: 

Tel:  512.380.9688

Email: cindy@cindylo.com 

Website: https://www.cindylo.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cindyknowsevents 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindyknowsevents/ 

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Paige Hulse, an expert in intellectual property law and the founder of Creative Law Shop. They dig into crucial legal considerations that venue owners should prioritize. Paige emphasizes the significance of well-crafted contracts, safeguarding intellectual property, and strategic planning for business expansion. The discussion covers challenges related to AI-generated content, the enforceability of non-compete agreements, and the importance of termination clauses in contracts. Paige advises venue owners to conduct thorough audits to protect their interests and collaborate closely with legal advisors to ensure legal compliance. Paige provides valuable insights for venue owners on legally safeguarding their businesses and leveraging intellectual property strategically.

About Our Guest: 

Paige Hulse is the founder and lead attorney of Paige Hulse Law, a law firm dedicated to assisting business owners in building enduring businesses that thrive today and in the future. As a business owner herself, Paige understands the challenges and risks involved in starting a business from scratch. She empathizes with the need to protect intellectual property through trademarks and the importance of estate planning for unforeseen circumstances. Paige's passion lies not only in helping clients achieve success but also in empowering them to navigate the legal aspects of their business confidently, ensuring longevity and resilience.

Find Her Here: 

Email: hello@paigehulse.com

Website: https://paigehulselaw.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paige.hulse/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paigehulselaw/ 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/paigehulselaw/

Contract Templates: https://paigehulselaw.com/shop 

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx podcast, our host Joanthan Aymin welcomes Jese Gray, the owner of Green Eyed Ambition, a service based business that helps entrepreneurs simplify their business and scale. Jonathan and Jese explore the crucial role of systems and processes in the success of event businesses. They highlight the necessity of organized systems to prevent chaos, streamline operations, and support growth. Jese, a certified HoneyBook pro, shares her expertise in assisting businesses in choosing the right CRM and technology. She emphasizes the importance of interconnected business aspects like client management and team communication. The conversation also covers understanding costs, organizing information, and utilizing a tech stack including HoneyBook, QuickBooks, Metrical, and Zapier. They discuss the challenges of feedback, making data-driven decisions, and using Asana for project management. Effective communication, follow-up systems, and professional financial transactions are stressed, with anecdotes shared about the consequences of neglecting these areas. 

About Our Guest: 

Jese launched LuxeGiving at 30 years old upon leaving corporate America to find happiness. Four years into starting LuxeGiving, she felt overwhelmed by the demands of hosting events, making sales calls, handling billing, and managing marketing tasks, limiting herself to a maximum capacity of 25 events per month. Despite her goal of expanding the business to 10 major cities, Jese faced challenges with systems and mindset obstacles, resulting in extensive travel between 5 states for events. She realized that hustling alone wasn't helping her achieve her goals and was holding back the business's potential, impacting her personal life and causing her to miss family functions.

Jese is now a service-based business coach who understands the challenges of running a business. She offers Honeybook workflow and other operating system setup services to help others in the industry master their back-office processes. For service-based business owners who wear multiple hats, from being the face of the company to handling sales, operations, customer service, and more, Jese provides support to alleviate overwhelm. As a business coach, she helps these owners create businesses they love and enjoy managing, offering guidance on streamlining operations for smoother functioning.

Find Her Here: 

Tel: (301) 375-0837

Website: https://www.greeneyedambition.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greeneyedambition/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn8cbD7yFnP2EsyKwRXOePg

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin welcomes Margaret Brower, the owner of Rainmaker Sales & Marketing Group, to talk about the intricacies of wedding venue sales. The discussion encompasses the significance of establishing emotional connections, customizing sales methodologies, and leveraging CRM systems. Margaret highlights the importance of comprehending client requirements and harnessing the influence of non-verbal communication. They also explore the impact of generational variances on sales tactics. 

About Our Guest: 

With over 15 years of experience as a results-driven Director of Sales, Margaret Brower has dedicated her career to not just achieving, but exceeding sales targets through a unique blend of skill development and human connection. Today, as the CEO and founder of Rainmaker Sales & Marketing Group, she channels this passion and expertise into empowering catering sales teams nationwide. Her mission? To equip them with innovative tools and strategies to attract and secure their ideal clients, driving both revenue growth and personal fulfillment.

At Rainmaker, they're redefining sales success. Through custom interactive marketing solutions and empathetic sales techniques, they not only aim to boost revenue but also to unlock the immense potential within each sales professional. Margaret's approach is rooted in the psychology of sales, focusing on nurturing talents and charting paths to not just growth, but exponential advancement. 

Find Her Here: 

Email: mb@rainmakersalesmarketing.com 

Website: https://rainmakersalesmarketing.com/

Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-brower-rainmaker/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rainmakersalesmarketing/

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Brandon West, CPA and Co-Owner of 77 Financial Group. They cover the importance of separating funds owed to vendors from taxable income, advocating for the safety of a high-yield savings account over riskier options like stocks or cryptocurrency. Additionally they discuss tax planning and retirement, and touch on the needs of venue owners considering succession and what that planning process entails. 

About Our Guest: 

Brandon West is a certified CPA based in California, specializing in tax matters for individuals and small businesses. He earned his degrees in Accounting and Finance from Point Loma Nazarene University. Initially, Brandon gained valuable experience at CBIZ, one of the nation's top ten accounting firms. However, driven by a desire for more direct client engagement and business development opportunities, he established his own practice.

Today, Brandon's clientele spans across 8 states and encompasses individuals, LLCs, S Corporations, C Corporations, and Sole Proprietorships. He is deeply passionate about supporting his clients' growth journeys, offering expert guidance through the intricate landscape of tax regulations.

Find Him Here: 

Email: brandon@77financialgroup.com

Website: https://www.77financialgroup.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/77financialgroup/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-west-0814a686/

Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5WdL2X4ShOSn7YrnmwOECT?si=53c44c9571324638

In this episode of The Venue Blueprint Series our hosts Jonathan Aymin and Lindsay Lucas discuss the transformation of a family property into a wedding venue. Together, they dig into the complexities of managing such a venture while residing on the property and navigating family dynamics. Key discussion points include establishing clear roles, setting boundaries, and managing expectations among family members. They emphasize the importance of effective communication during the transition of ownership and management. Lindsay emphasizes the necessity of adopting a business-oriented mindset, conducting regular role assessments, and implementing succession planning strategies. The conversation extends to topics such as marketing strategies, sales tactics, operational considerations, and the unique challenges of working within a family dynamic. They advocate for a strategic and proactive approach to ensure the long-term success of the venue. 

About Our Hosts: 

Lindsay Lucas: 

Website: https://thelindsaylucas.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelindsaylucas/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelindsaylucas/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thelindsaylucas/

The Venue Academy: https://shop.thelindsaylucas.com/checkout/cart 

Lindsay works directly with wedding venue owners, demystifying the process of running a profitable, sustainable wedding venue and guiding owners towards a business that suits their needs. Since 2016, Lindsay has assisted over 700 venue owners in securing funding, achieving sustainable growth, and navigating various challenges. Her client portfolio includes venues that have generated over $46 million in revenue over the past six years.

Jonathan Aymin 

Website:https://www.cseventservices.com/ 

https://csevenues.com/ 

https://www.thevenuerx.com/

https://www.wevahub.com/ 

Address: 251 North City Drive San Marcos, CA 92078

Email: venues@cseventservices.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-aymin-065aa679/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cseservices/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd5m3xiVauCEvQPPaVWraIg

Jonathan embarked on his journey into Venue Management with the launch of a single San Diego wedding venue. His path led him to expand his ventures to encompass multiple venues in multiple states, all the while trailblazing The Venue Rx Podcast/YouTube channel to ignite inspiration within the wedding professional community.

In addition, Jonathan serves as the visionary founder behind WEVA, the first national Wedding & Event Venue Association. This esteemed professional association is dedicated to venue owners and operators, offering unrivaled networking opportunities, valuable resources, and comprehensive education tailored to the venue industry.

In this week's episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with David Adler, the visionary behind BizBash. Adler shares the story behind BizBash's inception, highlighting the importance of transparency in event planning and the industry's resilience amid various economic and societal hurdles. He stresses the significance of genuine connections, purpose-driven events, and the art of scaling intimacy for impactful experiences. Additionally, Adler delves into the transformative influence of AI and technology on events, shedding light on his pioneering initiatives as well as his engagements in the film sector.

About Our Guest: 

David Adler is a seasoned entrepreneur with a rich history of success in the world of media and events. As the Chairman and Founder of BizBash, he takes pride in being part of a company and brand that's approaching its remarkable 25th Anniversary. BizBash has been at the forefront of the event industry, serving as a dynamic platform for commerce, community, and content creation. BizBash continues to thrive as a trusted resource and innovation hub.

Additionally, David is the Founder and Owner of Washington Dossier Magazine, an iconic "society magazine" focusing on "soft power" before it was recognized, which is nearing its remarkable 50th year since its founding and was sold in 1989. He currently manages a collection of 100,000 photos from that era.

As the author of "Harnessing Serendipity," a book on what it means to be a collaboration artist, he shines a light on the importance of high-impact gatherings that propel ideas and connections forward.

Find Him Here: 

Email: dadler@bizbash.com

Website: https://www.bizbash.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bizbash

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BizBash/

Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/bizbash/

In this episode of The Venue Blueprint Series our hosts Jonathan Aymin and Lindsay Lucas dive into the nuances of transforming an Airbnb into a wedding venue. Lindsay draws upon her expertise to outline the essential steps, highlighting the significance of zoning regulations, financial planning, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. They also dive into topics such as property enhancements, insurance considerations, and crafting legal agreements tailored specifically to the wedding industry. The conversation also encompasses operational considerations, including software integration and effective venue management, underscoring the importance of running the venue as a sustainable business rather than a hobby. 

About Our Hosts: 

Lindsay Lucas: 

Website: https://thelindsaylucas.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelindsaylucas/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelindsaylucas/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thelindsaylucas/

The Venue Academy: https://shop.thelindsaylucas.com/checkout/cart 

Lindsay works directly with wedding venue owners, demystifying the process of running a profitable, sustainable wedding venue and guiding owners towards a business that suits their needs. Since 2016, Lindsay has assisted over 700 venue owners in securing funding, achieving sustainable growth, and navigating various challenges. Her client portfolio includes venues that have generated over $46 million in revenue over the past six years.

Jonathan Aymin 

Website:https://www.cseventservices.com/ 

https://csevenues.com/ 

https://www.thevenuerx.com/

https://www.wevahub.com/ 

Address: 251 North City Drive San Marcos, CA 92078

Email: venues@cseventservices.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-aymin-065aa679/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cseservices/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd5m3xiVauCEvQPPaVWraIg

Jonathan embarked on his journey into Venue Management with the launch of a single San Diego wedding venue. His path led him to expand his ventures to encompass multiple venues in multiple states, all the while trailblazing The Venue Rx Podcast/YouTube channel to ignite inspiration within the wedding professional community.

In addition, Jonathan serves as the visionary founder behind WEVA, the first national Wedding & Event Venue Association. This esteemed professional association is dedicated to venue owners and operators, offering unrivaled networking opportunities, valuable resources, and comprehensive education tailored to the venue industry.

In this week’s episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Whitney Hodges and Daniela Justus, owners of Wedding Industry Ads to discuss their ad agency's tailored approach to digital marketing in the wedding sector. They touch on their backgrounds and how their partnership came to be, highlighting the crucial role of 

grasping clients' unique requirements for crafting impactful ad strategies. They also discuss  aligning ads with broader marketing initiatives, and discuss the pivotal role of personal branding for venue owners. Additionally they dive into how to leverage data analytics for evaluating campaign effectiveness. They also share insights on budget allocation for Google and Meta ads, the significance of Facebook in wedding planning, and the importance of evergreen content. 

About Our Guest: 

Whitney and Daniela are experienced professionals in the wedding industry with a combined background of over 12 years in sales, marketing, event planning, and management. They met while starting their own online digital advertising agencies three years ago and have since worked with a range of clients, from budget-conscious couples to luxury events exceeding $1 million. They have firsthand experience in booking, executing, and planning weddings, making magic happen every weekend. Their expertise includes navigating the challenges of running a business that operates 24/7 in the dynamic wedding industry.

Whitney and Daniela started Wedding Industry Ads because they recognized a need for specialized digital marketing services tailored to the unique requirements of businesses in the wedding industry. Drawing from their extensive experience in sales, marketing, event planning, and management within the wedding sector, they saw an opportunity to help wedding-related businesses effectively reach their target audience and achieve their marketing goals. Their shared passion for weddings and their expertise in digital advertising made Wedding Industry Ads a natural extension of their skills and experiences.

Find Them Here: 

Website: https://www.weddingindustryads.com/ 

Book A Call: https://weddingindustryads.com/scheduler 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniela-justus-b5417b183/ 
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitneyhodgesmarketing/

In this week's episode of The Venue RX podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin welcomes tax advisor Sugey Piedra to the show to discuss a range of tax strategies specifically designed for wedding venue owners. She highlights the differences between services and products within the context of tax considerations. They also explore the intricate tax implications that arise from venue rentals and the provision of wedding planning services, shedding light on how understanding these financial intricacies is crucial for achieving business success.

Sugey touches on the importance of accurately categorizing income streams as either rental or service-based, as this distinction can significantly impact tax liabilities. By meticulously accounting for all venue-related expenses, owners can ensure that they are maximizing tax benefits and minimizing potential risks. Sugey also emphasizes the strategic benefits of separating property ownership from service management within a wedding venue business framework. This separation not only simplifies financial reporting but also allows for more effective tax planning and optimization of financial resources. She encourages financial literacy and strategic tax planning in the wedding venue industry, providing valuable insights that can empower owners to navigate tax complexities with confidence and optimize their business operations for long-term success.

About Our Guest: 

Sugey Piedra brings over 20 years of tax preparation experience and a unique approach to her work. In 2018, she co-founded Prominence Business with her two sisters, aiming to help clients with annual tax planning and tax-saving strategies. As an enrolled agent and certified tax preparer for over two decades, Sugey is passionate about making her clients' money work for them, allowing them to achieve financial freedom. At Prominence Business & Wealth Management, where she serves as co-founder, Sugey supports high-earning, service-based business owners in achieving long-term wealth through comprehensive financial services such as bookkeeping, tax preparation, financial planning, and tax strategy, all under one roof.

Aside from her business responsibilities, Sugey also hosts and produces the Tax Talk with HeyHey Podcast, providing valuable insights into business taxes, wealth building, and the journey to financial freedom. Her expertise has also been featured on Sell Without Selling. When she is not immersed in helping business owners grow their income, Sugey enjoys traveling, horseback riding, and investing time in her personal growth mindset.

Find Her Here: 

Tel: 626-825-8249

Email: admin@prominencebusiness.com 

Website:www.prominencebusiness.com 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/prominence.services 

Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/Sugey Piedra

In this week's episode of The Venue RX podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Michael Kitts, from Enfuse Productions. With more than twenty years of experience in event production, Michael discusses the pivotal role that lighting and AV systems play within wedding venues. He advocates for venue owners to consider early implementation of these systems during construction or renovation, citing benefits such as cost efficiency and enhanced venue value. Michael also reflects on his experience navigating the transition to streaming during the pandemic and discusses the relevance of lighting technology in the wedding industry as a whole. He provides valuable insights on budgeting for lighting packages and underscores the significance of comprehending lighting technology for successful event execution.

About Our Guest: 

Michael Kitts brings over two decades of experience as an accomplished Lighting Technician in the entertainment industry. His expertise spans a wide range of areas including Lighting, Sound, Broadcasting, Production Management, and Video. Michael's strong background in arts and design is evident in his work, showcasing a deep understanding of how lighting and audiovisual elements contribute to the overall experience of events.

Having graduated from Visible Music College with a degree in Music and Worship Arts, Michael combines technical prowess with a creative approach, making him a valuable resource for event professionals seeking to elevate their venues. His proficiency in managing complex production setups, coupled with a keen eye for detail, ensures seamless execution and memorable experiences for guests.

Throughout his career, Michael has remained at the forefront of technological advancements in the industry, adapting to changes such as the transition to streaming during the pandemic. His insights into budgeting for lighting packages and the importance of understanding lighting technology reflect his commitment to helping others achieve excellence in event production. 

Find Him Here: 

Email: mike@enfusepro.com

Tel: 661-205-7595

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.kitts1

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kitts-26229a104/

In this week's episode of The Venue RX podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin interviews Rob Giardinelli, the founder of Event Mindset, a training and coaching service dedicated to empowering executives and their teams to excel as both hosts and guests at client-facing events. Rob discusses his experience as a participant in more than 2000 events and the CEO of luxury lifestyle publication in Texas. He touches on the different types of event experiences, with a focus on the significance of guest interactions and achieving a balance between hosting and being a guest. Rob also highlights the importance of diverse personalities at events, offering insights into networking strategies and the art of crafting unforgettable experiences. They also explore emerging post-COVID event trends, the impact of attire choices, and addressing challenges such as making investments in events without seeing expected returns. 

About Our Guest: 

As an executive, Rob Giardinelli's role includes navigating client-facing events, where he has extensive experience. Having attended numerous business meals, galas, event openings, and cocktail parties, Rob understands the value these events can generate for businesses when executed effectively.

Through his experiences, Rob has observed common challenges faced by executives and their teams at events. These challenges have fueled Rob's passion to empower executives and client-facing employees. With over 2,000 event experiences and more than a decade as the COO of Society Texas magazine, where he chronicled top nonprofit galas, Rob has honed the art and science of achieving goals at events.

Rob offers workshops and coaching to help individuals and teams navigate client-facing events confidently and effectively. His goal is to empower them to stand out, whether it's to grow sales at key accounts, secure investments for innovative ideas, or obtain philanthropic support for community changing initiatives.

Find Him Here: 

Email:  rob@eventmindset.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robgiardinelli/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-giardinelli-b8b5aa8

In this week’s episode of the The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin welcomes Becca Pountney, a UK-based wedding industry marketing expert to discuss effective marketing strategies for wedding professionals. Becca highlights the pivotal role of personal branding, particularly for small-business, and how to set themselves apart within the competitive landscape. She advocates for showcasing team members to bring life and personality into the business and allow for genuine connections with clients. She highlights her visibility bootcamp, a course designed to empower professionals in enhancing their marketing endeavors. Becca also shares practical insights on leveraging social media to help engagement and curating memorable content for your ideal client. 

About Our Guest: 

Becca Pountney, is a wedding business marketing expert, speaker, and consultant, who specializes in helping wedding businesses thrive. Renowned as the UK’s leading wedding industry marketing expert, she draws upon her extensive background, including owning her own wedding business and working in media for Endemol, Bbc, and Heart Radio. Becca empowers business owners to transform their visibility, from feeling unnoticed to highly sought-after and fully booked, through her straightforward, practical approach.

With a deep understanding of the events industry, Becca established an award-winning wedding blog and consultancy business from scratch. Her mission is to inspire wedding professionals, demonstrating that it’s feasible to convert their passion into a profitable venture, doing what they love.

Find Her Here: 

Tel: 079-292-59152

Email: becca@beccapountney.com

Website: https://beccapountney.com/ 

Instagram: https://beccapountney.com/about/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beccapountney

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/vicinityweddings/