Podcast appearances and mentions of Colin Cowie

Andy is excited to be bringing back returning guest Colin Cowie to the show this episode! A celebrated event designer and producer, Colin has created some of the most talked about parties and events around the world with a roster of clients including Oprah Winfrey, Jerry Seinfeld, Ryan Seacrest, Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, Kim Kardashian, Nicole Kidman, heads of state, and foreign dignitaries. He is also a celebrated television personality, having spent eight years on the CBS Morning Show, eight years on NBC's Today Show, seven years on HSN Network, and even hosted his own show for five years on the WE Network. Colin is also a published author, having written several books including his latest, The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted! Join Colin and Andy as they discuss what it really takes to stay relevant in a saturated, ever-evolving industry, with Colin reflecting on forty years in business and sharing why standing still is not an option for him. From his early days in traditional media to embracing the nuances of the digital landscape, Colin reflects on the constant recalibration that it takes to remain visible in this crowded market. Colin and Andy also talk about the shift from static branding to perpetual reinvention and how staying relevant today depends on your ability to rethink, reposition, and realign at every possibility. Colin shares not just philosophy but also real-world examples of reinvention in action such as how canceled weddings led to a pivot into hospitality consulting and how he has turned creative instincts into partnerships with major developers. They also explore the creative decision-making process and what it means to test ideas without overcommitting – as well as how to spot the difference between a passing whim and a sustainable direction. Colin highlights the importance of having a strong team, of thoughtful customer experience, and of proactive service and smart design. Andy, as always, had such a great time chatting with Colin and hopes that you enjoy this conversation! If so, please don't keep it to yourself. Andy asks that you please share it with at least three people who would also enjoy it. Please also leave a top review of the podcast wherever you listen as that really helps Andy and the show out! Time Stamps   [0:18] - Andy announces that today's guest is returning guest Colin Cowie! [2:16] - Colin argues that remaining relevant today demands nonstop reinvention across things like branding and social media. [5:38] - Taking on too much too quickly taught Colin to test ideas before scaling. [7:27] - Hear how, by revamping a tired beach club, Colin kept his team working through the pandemic. [9:36] - Colin launched Thrive Hospitality to create immersive experiences for hospitality and real estate. [13:25] - The 2008 crash taught Colin the meaning of resilience, highlighting that you sometimes wipe out, but you learn. [16:23] - Listen as Colin highlights teamwork and collaboration, believing that success comes from listening to and learning from others. [18:40] - Colin rejects burnout, sharing that he remains passionate, curious, and excited about his work even after 40 years. [19:55] - Colin recognizes AI's potential to revolutionize work, with big changes coming in the near future. [21:45] - Hear about a partnership to streamline wedding planning. [24:21] - The Gold Standard offers practical tips for business improvement, including the importance of a shared vision and mission [25:20] - Learn where Colin can be found online. LINKS AND RESOURCES Colin's Previous Guest Spots on The Wedding Biz Colin Cowie – Dinner After Dark: Sexy, Sumptuous Supper Soirees Colin Cowie – Colin Cowie Chic: The Guide to Life as It Should Be Colin Cowie – Colin Cowie Wedding Chic: 1,001 Ideas for Every Moment of Your Celebration Colin Cowie – The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted Find Colin: Colin's Website   Colin's Thrive Hospitality Website Colin's Instagram Page Colin Cowie Lifestyle – Instagram Page Colin Cowie Lifestyle – Facebook Page Colin's Twitter Page   Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz Network The Music Makers   Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.   Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment.  

In this episode, we're joined by legendary wedding planner and event designer Colin Cowie, known for curating some of the world's most extravagant and unforgettable celebrations. From celebrity weddings to high-society soirées, Colin shares how he designs events that delight all five senses—sight, sound, taste, touch, and scent—to create truly immersive experiences. Discover the details that elevate an event from beautiful to breathtaking, why storytelling is key to designing a cohesive vibe, and the unexpected ways scent and texture can transform your guests' emotional connection to a wedding.   Follow Colin Cowie Lifestyle on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/colincowielifestyle ___________________ Planning a wedding? It's time to plan smarter with Loverly's free wedding planning platform. From a comprehensive wedding checklists to guest list management and vendor manager, we've got everything you need to make your special day unforgettable. Let's be friends follow us on IG --> @Loverly We're on TikTok --> @Loverly

In this captivating episode of The Business of Luxury Weddings, we're honored to be joined by the renowned Colin Cowie, an iconic figure in the world of luxury events. With nearly 40 years of experience, Colin shares his fascinating journey from his humble beginnings with just $400 and a dream to becoming the go-to planner for Hollywood's elite. He opens up about the evolving landscape of the event industry, offering invaluable insights into navigating its cyclical nature while keeping elegance and style at the forefront. Colin also dives deep into the power of creating a rich company culture, proactive customer service, and the importance of personalization in elevating client experiences. From tales of designing stunning events to sharing the wisdom of failure as a stepping stone to success, Colin's stories will inspire both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. Whether you're in the wedding industry or just passionate about luxury, this episode is brimming with actionable advice and timeless principles.

Welcome back and hello O C T O B E R!I'm so excited to finally have this bossbabe on my podcast!  She has been a longtime friend, styled my daughter's wedding and is a true trailblazer.  Julie Sabatino, the original — and most sought-after —bridal stylist in the world, Julie is the founder of The Stylish Bride and the go-to for some of the most discerning brides in the world. In the 20-plus years since founding the Bridal Styling Industry, she has worked with the most respected planners in the world, including Marcy Blum, Mindy Weiss and Colin Cowie and frequently shares her advice in high-profile publications, including Vogue, WWD, The New York Times, Brides and Martha Stewart Weddings. With her newly released book, I am so excited to have her join and share her story, how her business evolved, the life of an entrepreneur and working mom, networking and making genuine connections and of course, her secrets to stamina.  Contact & Follow Cindy! Follow on Instagram at cindy_novotny, Facebook and LinkedIn for every day inspirational posts.Email at cindynovotny@masterconnection.com

Join Andy as he revisits his September 2021 interview with Colin Cowie this week! Having had celebrity clients such as Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Lopez, Ryan Seacrest, Kim Kardashian, Lil Wayne, Nicole Kidman, and Demi Moore, this episode's returning guest has enjoyed quite the career so far. Colin Cowie has also had many corporate clients such as Dom Pérignon, Warner Brothers, CBS, Whitney Museum of American Art, Architectural Digest, and so many more! Colin is also a published author, having written books such as Dinner After Dark: Sexy, Sumptuous Supper Soirees, Colin Cowie Chic: The Guide to Life as It Should Be, and Colin Cowie Wedding Chic: 1,001 Ideas for Every Moment of Your Celebration. Colin, as he discusses with Andy in this episode, is all about making sure that he delivers the ultimate experience for his clients. Colin and Andy also talk about Colin's new book, The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted, which is Colin's eleventh published book! Colin discusses luxury and what it means in any business – that it is about customer service and not just the product that you are selling. He discusses how to ascertain what customers want so that you can provide it to them before they even realize what they want. We also hear Colin talk about the importance of not only having good relationships with your clients but also with the employees of your company, how important that protocol and consistency are to him, how to get customers to keep coming back to you, and so much more! Andy has known Colin for nearly two decades and is so impressed with everything that he has accomplished. He always has such a blast with Colin, when he has him on the podcast, and is grateful for his time. Andy encourages you to go back and listen to his previous episodes with Colin and to also check out his new book The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted. Please share this interview with at least three good friends who might also enjoy it, and leave a top review of the podcast wherever you listen! Have you heard about Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey on The Wedding Biz Network? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don't forget about Sean Low's podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.   SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!   Time Stamps [0:40] – Andy reveals that this episode is a revisit of his September 2021 interview with Colin Cowie! [2:22] – Colin explains why he decided to write his new book The Gold Standard. [5:17] – Colin expounds upon his belief that customer service is the new luxury. [6:24] – We learn how to deliver to customers what they didn't realize they wanted. [8:55] – Colin gives examples of how to build relationships with clients. [10:16] – Colin affirms that you need to make sure that your employees have an emotional connection with you. [12:20] – Andy enthuses over how the COVID-19 pandemic gave us opportunities to reform company culture. [13:27] – Colin emphasizes how crucial teamwork and communication are. [16:48] – Andy and Colin agree that creating and owning your brand is important. [19:19] – We are persuaded of the importance of including everyone in meetings, even receptionists. [21:45] – Colin asserts how important protocols are to him. [24:39] – We discover that Colin is always updating protocols based on new things that are learned. [26:25] – Colin gives an example of great customer service provided by a pilot. [29:24] – We learn how we can get customers to keep coming back to us. [31:49] – Colin provides insight on failure and both its inevitability and its importance. [33:07] – Colin reveals what about the future excites him. [35:21] – Andy shares where online we can find Colin.   LINKS AND RESOURCES Colin Cowie – Dinner After Dark: Sexy, Sumptuous Supper Soirees Colin Cowie – Colin Cowie Chic: The Guide to Life as It Should Be Colin Cowie – Colin Cowie Wedding Chic: 1,001 Ideas for Every Moment of Your Celebration Colin Cowie – The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted   The Wedding Biz – Episode 128 REVISIT: Colin Cowie: Part 1 Creating Groundbreaking Luxury Experiences   The Wedding Biz – Episode 135 Colin Cowie: Part 2 Creating Groundbreaking Luxury Experiences   The Wedding Biz – Episode 267 A Conversation With: Colin Cowie Ryan Holiday – The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph Find Colin: Colin's Website Colin's Instagram Page Colin Cowie Lifestyle – Instagram Page Colin Cowie Lifestyle – Facebook Page Colin's Twitter Page   Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz Network The Music Makers   Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.   Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment.  

Happy Woo Wednesdays!The weather doesn't need to cause stress or anxiety. Just like every other aspect of your or your client's wedding day, you can plan for it and take steps to mitigate any severe risks. In my experience, even when it rains, it never ruins a wedding. Plan for the unexpected, learn how to set expectations with your clients, and always find the positive side of every situation and every type of weather pattern.Whether clients experience “perfect” weather or “awful” weather, they still end up having the best wedding ever!1. Weather apps are not meant for wedding planners … in the same way that Spotify isn't meant to replace a wedding band. While these apps can predict daily weather, they often lack the context needed for detailed planning.2. Severe weather, like thunderstorms, hurricanes, blizzards, and heat waves, demands a deeper dive into preparedness and understanding. It's not solely about knowing if a storm will hit but grasping the potential impacts on your event.3. It is key for you to understand your legal responsibility and how to avoid putting yourself in a risky legal situation if there is a weather emergency at your event.Andrew Leavitt founded Ironic Reports, a Concierge Event Meteorology Service. Ironic is trusted by some of the biggest names in the wedding industry, including Rafanelli Events, Marcy Blum, and Colin Cowie. Ironic focuses on everything from drizzles to severe weather and can even help you choose the safest place for your dream wedding.Connect with Andrew Leavittwww.ironicreports.comhttps://www.instagram.com/IronicreportsConnect with Carissahttps://instagram.com/carissawoohttps://heckyesmedia.co/Sponsorswww.strategic-assistant.com promo code: WOO17hats.com promocode heckyeshttps://kickstartaccountinginc.com/

Andy welcomes Rachel Birthistle to The Wedding Biz. Rachel is the Owner and CEO of The Lake Como Wedding Planner based in Como, Italy. In addition to her own events, she has worked with people like Lisa Vorce on Chrissy Tegan and John Legend's wedding and many others. She says she is predominantly a wedding planner in a destination rather than a destination wedding planner. Rachel's father was in the fashion industry, and from a young age, she worked in his factory doing tasks like snipping thread and packing items. She found the place fascinating and knew that being in the fashion industry was where she wanted to be. She started making her own clothes in school even though her friends thought her fashion style was a little out there! Rachel discusses going to design college, finding a job with a large retailer in London, traveling all over the world, and her decision to stay home. She speaks about going back to college for sports therapy and starting a clinic in her home. Her life took twists and turns but eventually led her to a position with a wedding planner and, ultimately, her decision to start her own extremely successful business. Rachel strives to make each client's wedding an event starting when they get off the plane for their first meeting with her. With an itinerary of possible venues in hand, she begins to analyze the client's style, how they interact with each other, and begins the design process in her head. Creating a sequence of contrasting events for her clients is what she loves most. What is your dream? If it's to start your own business, what are you waiting for? You will never know if you can do it until you take a leap of faith and try. Rachel is someone who did just that; she found areas that were lacking in the wedding planning industry in Lake Como, Italy, and set out to change it. This is a learning experience for anyone with a dream, so sit back and listen to this very insightful episode. This episode is sponsored by Zola, the fastest-growing wedding platform that connects today's couples with the right planners and vendors. Zola gives wedding professionals more control, better exposure, and higher quality leads - all with competitive pricing and no annual commitment. Create your free listing at www.zola.com/andy. Have you heard about Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey on The Wedding Biz Network? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don't forget about Sean Low's podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.   SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!   Show Highlights: [00:00] - Today's sponsor is Zola. [01:03] - This episode is a revisit of Andy's original interview with Rachel Birthistle. [01:46] - Welcome to the show, Rachel! [02:11] - She has a view of Lake Como from her office and says it's hard to beat. [02:59] - Rachel discusses her childhood and how she knew she was going to be in the fashion industry as a small child. [03:45] - She didn't know what part of the industry, but the design side fascinated her. [04:21] - Did Rachel have a strong sense of what her style was? [04:41] - Rachel started making her clothes because she didn't have a lot of pocket money. [05:40] - She went to school for design in London but didn't finish because she left to have her daughter. [07:13] - If you are positive when looking for opportunities, you can be successful. [08:06] - Rachel started working for a retailer in London who focused on menswear and got to travel a lot. [09:18] - Rachel explains the twists and turns she took from fashion into planning. [11:00] - She got introduced to the wedding industry from a friend who needed help and moved from there into her own company. [11:59] - She discovered that the wedding industry was missing various things and made it her mission to fill in the holes. [13:45] - What was available to rent for weddings lacked style, so she started buying items to use. [15:04] - Rachel interprets what clients want and puts ideas together for them. [17:27] - She gives us her process for meeting a client, finding the venue, and understanding their style. She then can start thinking about the design. [20:05] - Lake Como is unique, and her goal is to have contrast within the flow of events. [23:38] - From the time her clients arrive at the airport, she puts together an itinerary for showing them locations and giving them an experience. [25:45] - She also does planning with other agencies that need a local planner to support them. [26:29] - Rachel reflects on her having worked with Colin Cowie. [27:38] - Rachel talks about working with Lisa Vorce doing Crissy Tegan and John Legend's wedding and the different people she has worked with. [30:13] - Her reputation and weddings benefit the venues and get them exposure and business. [33:01] - Having a mix of photographers through the various seasons allows her to have different types of photos for each wedding. [34:47] - Rachel's daughter works in the business and helps curate their library of images. [38:01] - She is learning to delegate and put the right people in the right positions so she doesn't have to be present every minute of each event.  [40:46] - She has a team that knows many different languages, which helps her deal with vendors/creative partners and clients. [41:48] - Where does Rachel want to be in five or ten years? [42:48] - Rachel has also started a furniture rental business, which she is now allowing other companies to use. [44:43] - Andy announces where Rachel can be found online. LINKS & RESOURCES Kristen & Zachary Wedding in Lake Como, Italy Lauren & OJ – Marco Caputo – password: “amcaputo2019” Joel & Shayne – Moon and Back Neha & Sheryar Find Rachel: The Lake Como Wedding Planner Rachel@lakecomoweddings Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest Mentioned: Lisa Vorce  Colin Cowie Part 1 on The Wedding Biz Colin Cowie Part 2 on The Wedding Biz Robert Fountain on The Wedding Biz Kiana Underwood on The Wedding Biz Carrie Goldberg on The Wedding Biz   Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz Network The Music Makers   Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here. Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment & Zola.

With clients like Jennifer Anniston, Jennifer Lopez, Tom Cruise, and Oprah Windfry, Colin is well established as the go to planner for all of their events.  Now he is out with a new book, The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted - Colin's newest  book where he shares insight into his success and what you should start doing today!As an all-encompassing wedding and event planner, Colin is a global citizen in every sense of the term. Having traveled over 13 million miles and visiting nearly 100 countries, he creates excitement and finds inspiration wherever he goes. Empowering people to live their best life is at the top of what motivates him to share his lust for life. Through his website, books and television appearances, as well as by example, he consistently sends that message to the world.Born in Zambia and raised in South Africa, he is an avid supporter of several charities focused on children's education and health. The party planner of choice for celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Tom Cruise, Jennifer Lopez, Oprah Winfrey, Ryan Seacrest and Kim Kardashian, what sets Colin apart is his experiential approach to design; what you smell, touch, taste, see and hear are carefully orchestrated to create the ultimate experience for Colin's clients.The wedding planner to the stars - Colin's clients include celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Tom Cruise, Jennifer Lopez, Oprah Winfrey, Ryan Seacrest and Kim Kardashian.And now he is out with a new book - The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted - where he shares insight into his success and what you should start doing today!More about Colin:As an all-encompassing wedding and event planner, Colin is a global citizen in every sense of the term. Having traveled over 13 million miles and visiting nearly 100 countries, he creates excitement and finds inspiration wherever he goes. Empowering people to live their best life is at the top of what motivates him to share his lust for life. Through his website, books and television appearances, as well as by example, he consistently sends that message to the world.Born in Zambia and raised in South Africa, he is an avid supporter of several charities focused on children's education and health. The party planner of choice for celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Tom Cruise, Jennifer Lopez, Oprah Winfrey, Ryan Seacrest and Kim Kardashian, what sets Colin apart is his experiential approach to design; what you smell, touch, taste, see and hear are carefully orchestrated to create the ultimate experience for Colin's clients.Support the showBehind The Veil Crew:Host: Keith Willard www.keithwillardevents.com www.instagram.com/keithwillard Co- Host: Marci Guttenberg www.anaffairtorememberbymarci.com www.instagram.com/anaffairtorememberbymarci

BizBash founder David Adler, author of the forthcoming book, Harnessing Serendipity (April 24). Adler is a veteran media, marketing, and event industry entrepreneur. He founded BizBash in 2000, overseeing its growth as the largest B2B media company for the event industry with over 2.5 million user sessions annually.   In the podcast interview, Adler explains the mysterious dynamics and challenges of getting people to collaborate. For Harnessing Serendipity, he spoke to a wide array of people—more than 60 individual “collaboration artists, conveners, and connectors” and duos across a variety of sectors—from charities to corporate cultures and from theater and music to diplomatic and political arenas. In a world that often feels divided and conflicted, these people have had extraordinary success at getting people to gather and work together. Adler presents tips from Wynton Marsalis, Jason Alexander, Sarah Brown, Colin Cowie, and more. Each of them works differently, but all excel at harnessing the serendipities that humans inevitably present. The book builds on the realization that together, we can be more powerful than we are individually, and the observation that collaboration is fast emerging as an essential critical skill in all walks of life and endeavors. https://www.bizbash.com/ https://harnessingserendipity.com/    

Colin Cowie is a highly regarded expert in experiential design, high-end events, luxury, and style. Royalty, Oprah, Ryan Seacrest, and Jenifer Lopez make up a few of his clients. The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted, his most recent book, is a manual for creating exceptional customer experiences. Originally from South Africa, Colin moved to LA and got his start in events while working in catering. Later, he moved to NYC and found himself working at InStyle, on television, and planning over-the-top parties and weddings. He shares his wisdom on resilience, accountability, and the small and important details. 1:57 -    Start in South Africa Army 3:06 -    Move to LA, the start of his event planning business 4:19 -    Move to NY, business taking off 6:00 -    InStyle and television opportunities 6:55 -    Influences and trends 9:58 -    Most memorable events & projects currently in the works 12:20 - Emotional seduction / Bespoke luxury experiences 15:00 - Feedback, lessons learned, accountability 23:00 - Small details 23:56 - Advice to clients 26:25 - Hospitality Group Colin Cowie:Book: The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted https://www.amazon.com/Gold-Standard-Giving-Customers-Wanted/dp/1400224004 Instagram @colincowie @colincowielifestyle https://www.facebook.com/itsmecolincowie https://www.colincowie.com Mark Testa https://www.markstephenagency.com info@markstephenagency.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/mark-stephen-design-&-production/ Instagram @markstephenea https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK13o22i4RxQvbAgwwlh9tQ?view_as=subscriber

Are you following your dreams? In this segment, Keith Willard shares how to start from scratch and follow a path you love. He walks us through his versatile background, career transitions, starting something new, and then following his intuition and running a successful business he loves. See video here - https://youtu.be/XvlReleP2bc WHO IS KEITH? Keith Willard is the owner of Keith Willard Events - A social and corporate event planning company, in business for over seven years. Before restarting his company, Keith spent more than a decade working for hotel in social catering. Starting as an entry level catering salesperson staring in 2004 and working his way up to Director of Catering for Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour. in 2014. Previously Keith was the Executive Director of a local not for profit in Dallas, Texas, where he honed his skills of working with small budget. He then continued his love of events as a senior event planner with a company called Event Presentations, where he traveled the world putting together events for notable clients such as Nokia and AT&T. Along the way, Keith was responsible for thousand person galas and Madam Tussauds in London as well as planning Mark Cubans 40th birthday party which included a concert by John Melloncamp. Since starting his business in 2015, Keith has been the recipient of numerous awards including Best Of From The Knot, Best Wedding Planner from Wedding Wire, Top Ten from Modern Luxury Magazine, and Innovator of The Year From the National Association of Catering & Events. Now Keith continues his excellence with corporate and wedding planning service while producing an award-winning podcast called Behind The Veil. This weekly live podcast has had notable guests such as David Tutera, Colin Cowie, and Monte Durham from Say Yes to The Dress - which led to winning the Telly Award for best unscripted online series. KEITH'S CALL TO ACTION Jump in with both feet and don't be afraid to start something. Connect on socials @KeithWillard www.keithwillardevents.com www.youtube.com/c/BehindTheVeilByKeithWillard/ www.bit.ly/4BehindTheVeil www.linkedin.com/keithwillard1 GENESIS'S INFO https://genesisamariskemp.net/ CALL TO ACTION Subscribe to GEMS with Genesis Amaris Kemp Channel, Hit the notifications bell so you don't miss any content, and share with family/friends. **REMEMBER - You do not have to let limitations or barriers keep you from achieving your success. Mind over Matter...It's time to shift and unleash your greatest potential. If you would like to be a SPONSOR or have any of your merchandise mentioned, please reach out via email at GEMSwithGenesisAmarisKemp@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/genesis-amaris-kemp/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/genesis-amaris-kemp/support

Joining Andy on today's episode of The Wedding Biz is Jean-Pierre Uys of Jean-Pierre Uys Photography! Based out of New York City, Jean-Pierre is an acclaimed wedding photographer, artist, and creative explorer. Having shot over 700 weddings, his images have been published in over seventy local and international magazines, and he even helped publish two hardcover wedding books. Jean-Pierre is also the recipient of numerous awards and accolades including but not limited to a Framed Awards nomination as one of the ten best wedding photographers in the world and Junebug Weddings' Best of the Best Wedding Images Around the World. Jean-Pierre talks about his childhood and education, revealing that he always had a love for visuals but originally more so videos as opposed to stills. He and Andy agree that creative entrepreneurship isn't something that they originally saw for their futures, especially not long-term, and Jean-Pierre reflects that he didn't originally think that he would be involved in photography for as long as he has been but that once you find something you're successful in, it tends to become your passion. We also learn about how Jean-Pierre tends to work with his clients and how he captures their essence and tells their stories. He walks us through his usual process with his clients and how they build that professional relationship. He also looks back at his time working in South Africa and how it was a bit different than how he works now out of New York City. Jean-Pierre also touches upon balancing the creative side of what he does with the business side of it, disclosing that he does not find running the business side of it challenging at all. Jean-Pierre, in addition, gives a couple of examples of his artistic and creative work outside of wedding photography, and he gives a couple of pieces of advice for anyone who wants to walk a similar path, emphasizing, for example, that photography should tell a linear story with a beginning, middle, and end. Andy has been wanting to interview Jean-Pierre ever since Colin Cowie mentioned working with him, so he is really appreciative of Jean-Pierre's time, especially since Jean-Pierre offers new ways to look at things, ways that Andy never had before. Be sure to check out Jean-Pierre's website and his social media pages on Instagram and Facebook, and as always, if you can think of at least three good friends who might really benefit from and enjoy this interview with Jean-Pierre Uys, be sure to share it with them! Andy would also really appreciate it if you were to subscribe to the podcast if you aren't already and to leave a top review wherever you listen! That really helps out the show and helps people find it! Have you heard about Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey on The Wedding Biz Network? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don't forget about Sean Low's podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.   SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!   Time Stamps [0:34] – Today's guest is revealed to be Jean-Pierre Uys of Jean-Pierre Uys Photography. [1:46] – Jean-Pierre reflects on his childhood and where his love for photography comes from. [4:31] – Jean-Pierre reveals that he didn't realize that he would do this as long as he has. [7:01] – Jean-Pierre discusses wedding expos inspiring him when he was in college. [8:42] – Jean-Pierre talks about telling a story via photography. [11:55] – Jean-Pierre walks us through his usual process with clients. [13:36] – Jean-Pierre looks back at his time working in South Africa and how it differed there. [15:38] – Jean-Pierre points out why lighting is different between men and women. [17:40] – Discover what Jean-Pierre means when he says that he sculpts with the light. [19:48] – Jean-Pierre offers insight into veils being used to the photographer's advantage. [22:00] – Hear about a shot that won Jean-Pierre an award. [24:12] – Timing is what Jean-Pierre struggles with the most. [26:47] – Jean-Pierre touches upon energy shifting between creativity and business. [28:50] – Learn about Jean-Pierre's work other than weddings. [30:41] – We receive a couple of tips and advice from Jean-Pierre. [33:30] – Learn about the importance of sequencing in portfolios. [36:05] – Jean-Pierre offers encouragement to photographers dealing with comparisonitis. [37:33] – Andy provides Jean-Pierre's online information.   Find Jean-Pierre: Jean-Pierre's Website Jean-Pierre's Instagram Page Jean-Pierre's Facebook Page Jean-Pierre's Commercial Work   Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz Network The Music Makers   Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here. Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment.

With clients like Jennifer Anniston, Jennifer Lopez, Tom Cruise, and Oprah Windfry, Colin is well established as the go to planner for all of their events.  Now he is out with a new book, The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted - Colin's newest  book where he shares insight into his success and what you should start doing today!As an all-encompassing wedding and event planner, Colin is a global citizen in every sense of the term. Having traveled over 13 million miles and visiting nearly 100 countries, he creates excitement and finds inspiration wherever he goes. Empowering people to live their best life is at the top of what motivates him to share his lust for life. Through his website, books and television appearances, as well as by example, he consistently sends that message to the world.Born in Zambia and raised in South Africa, he is an avid supporter of several charities focused on children's education and health. The party planner of choice for celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Tom Cruise, Jennifer Lopez, Oprah Winfrey, Ryan Seacrest and Kim Kardashian, what sets Colin apart is his experiential approach to design; what you smell, touch, taste, see and hear are carefully orchestrated to create the ultimate experience for Colin's clients.The wedding planner to the stars - Colin's clients include celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Tom Cruise, Jennifer Lopez, Oprah Winfrey, Ryan Seacrest and Kim Kardashian.And now he is out with a new book - The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted - where he shares insight into his success and what you should start doing today!More about Colin:As an all-encompassing wedding and event planner, Colin is a global citizen in every sense of the term. Having traveled over 13 million miles and visiting nearly 100 countries, he creates excitement and finds inspiration wherever he goes. Empowering people to live their best life is at the top of what motivates him to share his lust for life. Through his website, books and television appearances, as well as by example, he consistently sends that message to the world.Born in Zambia and raised in South Africa, he is an avid supporter of several charities focused on children's education and health. The party planner of choice for celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Tom Cruise, Jennifer Lopez, Oprah Winfrey, Ryan Seacrest and Kim Kardashian, what sets Colin apart is his experiential approach to design; what you smell, touch, taste, see and hear are carefully orchestrated to create the ultimate experience for Colin's clients.Join Behind the Veil Show with host Keith Willard, CWP, and co-hosts Marci Guttenberg, CPCE, CWP, and Brooke Logan Stoner for our LIVE SHOW - Tuesday May 10th, 2:00pm, 2022, EDT – https://www.youtube.com/c/BehindTheVeilByKeithWillard/PODCAST SHOW - Available after 5:00 PM EDT in iTunes, iHeart Radio, Spotify, or any major podcast players- Ask Alexa - "Play the latest podcast episode of Behind The Veil"BEHIND THE VEIL Show: Winner of 2021 @TellyAwards for best online unscripted series & 2021 @NACE ONE Award for Innovator of The YearSupport the show

Well, I'm not sure he even needs an introduction – if you don't know Colin Cowie – are you actually even LIVING?!  For those of you who may not know him, Colin Cowie himself is here with us today.He literally wears and has worn so many hats in his amazing, ever-evolving career – he is famously known for being a luxury wedding & event designer, being the planner of choice for some of the biggest names like Oprah, Jennifer Aniston, JLO, Tom Cruise, Ryan Seacrest and many, many others.What sets him apart?  He has an experiential approach to his design – what you smell, touch, taste, hear are carefully orchestrated to create ultimate memorable experiences for his clients.  On this episode, we discuss how it all began for him, the true grind it takes to run a successful business, his new book "The Gold Standard", how he transformed his business during the pandemic and many fun stories you don't want to miss!

Lifestyle expert Colin Cowie joins Zibby to discuss his 11th book, The Gold Standard. Zibby shares which piece of advice from the book she recently shared to inspire her team at Zibby Books and asks Colin about how Covid-19 impacted his messaging. The two also talk about how to create a desirable product in a saturated market, the ways in which publishing has changed between the release of his first book in 1996 and today, and the guiding principles Colin offers for leaders to direct and unite their teams.Purchase on Amazon or Bookshop.Amazon: https://amzn.to/3I4H5yfBookshop: https://bit.ly/3d7A4hL See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Lifestyle guru and premier party planner Colin Cowie talks to Pauline about his approach to orchestrating the most memorable and exquisite weddings, including his own.

On today's episode of All in the Industry®, Shari Bayer's guest is Colin Cowie, CEO & Founder of Colin Cowie Lifestyle. Colin arrived in the United States from South Africa in 1985. His intelligence, personality, and stylish sensibility led him into the fast-paced, glamorous world of planning over-the-top parties for royalty, celebrities, and business luminaries. Respected around the world as an arbiter of style, Colin has been at the forefront of event and wedding planning for the past 25 years, creating trends and raising the bar for providing the ultimate guest experience. In addition to Oprah Winfrey, his celebrity clients include Jennifer Lopez, Ryan Seacrest, Kim Kardashian, Lil Wayne, Nicole Kidman, and Demi Moore, to name a few. Colin's corporate clients include Dom Perignon, Warner Bros., CBS, The Whitney Museum, Architectural Digest, Cosmopolitan and Style. His previous books include Dinner After Dark, Colin Cowie Chic: The Guide to Life As It Should Be, and Colin Cowie Wedding Chic. Colin recently launched Thrive Hospitality – a guest experience brand; and he has a new book, The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted (Harper Collins Leadership; 9/7/21). Today's show also includes Shari's PR tip to know what your customers want before they do (a Colin-ism); Speed Round; Industry News Discussion on Jose Andres Media; and Solo Dining experience at Chef Enrique Olvera's Damian in Los Angeles, CA. Photo Courtesy of Colin Cowie.Listen at Heritage Radio Network; subscribe/rate/review our show at iTunes, Stitcher or Spotify. Follow us @allindustry. Thanks for being a part of All in the Industry®. Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support All in the Industry by becoming a member!All in the Industry is Powered by Simplecast.

Have you ever wondered who's behind celebrities' glamorous and over-the-top parties? Look no further, Colin Cowie joins Heather on today's episode and dishes out all the details on party planning-- the do's, don't, and the faux pas. Having built an empire out of planning parties for stars like Kim Kardashian and Oprah, Cowie details everything he's learned in his 25 year career including why complaints aren't necessarily a bad thing. Plus, which clients are the hardest to work with celebrities or civilians? All of this and more as Heather and Colin discuss his latest book "The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted".

Host: David Adler Guest: Colin Cowie In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash founder and chairman David Adler sits down with event industry icon Colin Cowie to discuss his new book, The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted. Through compelling anecdotal-style stories, Cowie's new book is a must-read to make sure your business stands out in this ever-changing world, diving into ways to up your game to think about the intangibles that separate you from your competition. This episode is a one-man masterclass on doing it right, explaining how Cowie is using event thinking in all aspects of the hospitality, retail and service industries. He and Adler also explore themes of passion, elegance, failure, style, conflict resolution and the power of proactive customer service. Click here to order Cowie's new book.  Sponsored by Ticketbud. Running time 40:00.

September 28, 2021 - Oprah Party Planner Colin Cowie and Super Flipper

When it comes to creative vision, your dreams reveal what you will build. Small dreams lead to small creations. Big dreams lead to anything you can imagine. That's why this guest recommends that you give yourself permission to dream up the greatest stories that you want to live. Want to hear more? Be sure to... The post WII 080: Colin Cowie Directs You to Use Dreaming to Shape Your Future Success appeared first on Timeline Genius Blog.

The Gold Standard | Join prolific author, customer service, and lifestyle expert Colin Cowie as he shares captivating insights around pivoting your business, high-level customer service, and how to stand out in your industry. Subscribe to the FranklinCovey On Leadership email newsletter and receive weekly videos, tools, articles, and podcasts to help you become a better leader. ow.ly/tH5E30kAxfj The People Business: Every company is in the same business, the people business. What are you doing to ensure all of your systems, processes, strategies, and ongoing focus is about an obsession with people? https://resources.franklincovey.com/blog/the-people-business Surprise With Unexpected Extras: Engage your team and brainstorm your way to increased customer loyalty with this tool. https://pages.franklincovey.com/2022-Q1-NL-September21_Newsletter-Tool-Download.html

Even if you don't work in hospitality, you've undoubtedly heard of Colin Cowie. He's been at the forefront of event and wedding planning for the past 25 years, creating trends and raising the bar for providing the ultimate guest experience for celebrity and corporate clients around the world. He's also just released his 11th book called The Gold Standard, Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted, and on this episode we're diving in to some of Colin's best practices and principles that have not only filled the pages of his new book, but truly actionable, and fundamentally simple but effective actions that can foster personalized proactive customer service. I took away two key points from this conversation. The first is that in times of crisis and change like hotels and restaurants have been dealing with, coming back to the basics and executing on them exceptionally well will never steer you in the wrong direction. The second is that creating emotional connections with your guests isn't about expensive gifts or over the top gestures, it just takes care and a bit of imagination. It was truly a pleasure having Colin on the show - and I hope there's something here that resonates with you as well. About Colin Colin Cowie arrived in the United States from South Africa in 1985. His intelligence, personality, and stylish sensibility led him into the fast-paced, glamorous world of planning over-the-top parties for royalty, celebrities, and business luminaries. Respected around the world as an arbiter of style, Cowie has been at the forefront of event and wedding planning for the past 25 years, creating trends and raising the bar for providing the ultimate guest experience. In addition to Oprah Winfrey, his celebrity clients include Jennifer Lopez, Ryan Seacrest, Kim Kardashian, Lil Wayne, Nicole Kidman, and Demi Moore, to name a few. Cowie's corporate clients include Dom Perignon, Warner Bros., CBS, The Whitney Museum, Architectural Digest, Cosmopolitan and Style. His previous books include Dinner After Dark, Colin Cowie Chic: The Guide to Life As It Should Be, and Colin Cowie Wedding Chic. Cowie's latest book, The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted, will be released by HarperCollins Leadership on September 7, 2021. Links Book: https://www.amazon.com/Gold-Standard-Giving-Customers-Wanted/dp/1400224004/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1HQIU17OCUXJX&dchild=1&keywords=gold+standard+colin+cowie&qid=1629916597&sprefix=gold+standard+colin%2Caps%2C160&sr=8-3 (The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted) Website: https://www.colincowie.com (https://www.colincowie.com) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colincowielifestyle/ (@colincoweylifestyle)

Having had celebrity clients such as Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Lopez, Ryan Seacrest, Kim Kardashian, Lil Wayne, Nicole Kidman, and Demi Moore, this episode's returning guest has enjoyed quite the career so far. Colin Cowie has also had many corporate clients such as Dom Pérignon, Warner Brothers, CBS, Whitney Museum of American Art, Architectural Digest, and so many more! Colin is also a published author, having written books such as Dinner After Dark: Sexy, Sumptuous Supper Soirees, Colin Cowie Chic: The Guide to Life as It Should Be, and Colin Cowie Wedding Chic: 1,001 Ideas for Every Moment of Your Celebration. Colin, as he discusses with Andy in this episode, is all about making sure that he delivers the ultimate experience for his clients. Colin and Andy also talk about Colin's new book, The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted, which is Colin's eleventh published book! Colin discusses luxury and what it means in any business – that it is about customer service and not just the product that you are selling. He discusses how to ascertain what customers want so that you can provide it to them before they even realize what they want. We also hear Colin talk about the importance of not only having good relationships with your clients but also with the employees of your company, how important that protocol and consistency are to him, how to get customers to keep coming back to you, and so much more! Andy has known Colin for nearly two decades and is so impressed with everything that he has accomplished. He always has such a blast with Colin, when he has him on the podcast, and is grateful for his time. Andy encourages you to go back and listen to his previous episodes with Colin and to also check out his new book The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They Wanted. Please share this interview with at least three good friends who might also enjoy it, and leave a top review of the podcast wherever you listen! Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don't forget about Sean Low's podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.   SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ Become a patron and support Andy and the show! If you are so inspired, contribute!   Time Stamps [0:44] – Andy reveals that Colin Cowie is today's guest! [3:03] – Colin explains why he decided to write his new book The Gold Standard. [5:59] – Colin expounds upon his belief that customer service is the new luxury. [7:05] – We learn how to deliver to customers what they didn't realize they wanted. [9:36] – Colin gives examples of how to build relationships with clients. [10:58] – Colin affirms that you need to make sure that your employees have an emotional connection with you. [13:30] – Andy enthuses over how the COVID-19 pandemic gave us opportunities to reform company culture. [14:07] – Colin emphasizes how crucial teamwork and communication are. [17:29] – Andy and Colin agree that creating and owning your brand is important. [20:13] – We are persuaded of the importance of including everyone in meetings, even receptionists. [22:58] – Colin asserts how important protocols are to him. [25:52] – We discover that Colin is always updating protocols based on new things that are learned. [27:36] – Colin gives an example of great customer service provided by a pilot. [30:35] – We learn how we can get customers to keep coming back to us. [33:02] – Colin provides insight on failure and both its inevitability and its importance. [34:20] – Colin reveals what about the future excites him. [36:34] – Andy shares where online we can find Colin. RESOURCES Colin Cowie – Dinner After Dark: Sexy, Sumptuous Supper SoireesColin Cowie – Colin Cowie Chic: The Guide to Life as It Should BeColin Cowie – Colin Cowie Wedding Chic: 1,001 Ideas for Every Moment of Your CelebrationColin Cowie - The Gold Standard: Giving Your Customers What They Didn't Know They WantedThe Wedding Biz - Episode 128 REVISIT: Colin Cowie: Part 1 Creating Groundbreaking Luxury ExperiencesThe Wedding Biz - Episode 135 Colin Cowie: Part 2 Creating Groundbreaking Luxury ExperiencesThe Wedding Biz - Episode 267 A Conversation With: Colin CowieRyan Holiday – The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph Find Colin: Colin's WebsiteColin's Instagram PageColin Cowie Lifestyle - Instagram PageColin Cowie Lifestyle - Facebook PageColin's Twitter Page Follow The Wedding Biz on Social: The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz Network The Music Makers   Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.   Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Kushner Entertainment.  

Colin Cowie is an international designer and event planner. He's created event experiences for A-list celebrities, CEOs, world leaders, and Oprah. He joins me to talk about his new book The Gold Standard. The conversation reveals many everyday customer-focused decisions all of us can make to wow those we serve.

Based in Chicago, Sarah Kotva has spent most of her career at Fieldwork, Inc. where she has risen to the role of EVP.  She is a highly organized and meticulous leader who loves to collaborate and interact with people.So perhaps it is not surprising that, inspired by Colin Cowie on Oprah, she originally set out to be a planner of fabulous parties. Fate eventually found her under the big tent of the market research industry where she discovered these two worlds are not so different as they may seem.Sarah shares her journey on today's podcast and discusses the enduring value of face-to-face consumer interaction, which snacks are most popular at focus groups and which hair metal record she'd listen to for all of eternity.

Andy welcomes Sean Low back to the show. Sean is the owner of the consulting firm The Business of Being Creative, which focuses on providing practical advice to those in the business of being creative. He also has a podcast on The Wedding Biz Network called The Business of Being Creative.  Listen as they discuss Ira Levy, the Creative Director of Levy NYC Design & Production, a full-service design and production company focused on lighting, sound, and video for events, architecture, and what he calls architainment. Ira has been the lighting designer for such event luminaries as Preston Bailey and Colin Cowie. Past clients include Martha Stewart Weddings, Dolce Gabbana, and the American Museum of Natural History.   

"Light starts in the ceiling and ends in the floor, and there is nothing in between." Listen as Andy and his guest Ira Levy discuss his journey from pre-med to concerts, lighting design, and entertainment, why he uses the term architainment, his process when working with clients, designers, and planners, plus much more on this episode of The Wedding Biz.   Ira is the Creative Director of Levy NYC Design & Production, a full-service design and production company focused on lighting, sound, and video for events, architecture, and what he calls architainment. He has also been the lighting designer for such event industry luminaries as Preston Bailey and Colin Cowie. Past clients include Martha Stewart Weddings, Dolce Gabbana, and the American Museum of Natural History.   "It's not the turning of the screw; it's knowing which screw to turn." Ira believes that the mood you create with lighting is part of the experience. Ira shares mixing entertainment and architecture to create architainment, which happens when light touches inanimate material.   Listen as Ira speaks about the need for event industry professionals to allow more time before an event so that lighting designers can work their creative magic. Ira also shares what he still hopes to accomplish and what he is looking forward to.   Do you need some tips on handling stress during this crazy year? Andy has put together a list of the top ten tips for dealing with stress, which he has compiled from interviews with icons of the wedding and event industry. If you would like a copy, go to www.theweddingbiz.com/toptips.   Have you heard about the brand new show on The Wedding Biz Network, Stop and Smell the Roses with Preston Bailey? Listen as Preston shares the secrets, tools, and technologies behind his extraordinary ability to create a theatrical environment out of any space. Also, don't forget about Sean Low's podcast The Business of Being Creative, where Sean discusses the power of being niched, pricing strategies, metrics of success, and so much more. You can find both shows on The Wedding Biz Network.   SUPPORTING THE WEDDING BIZ Become a patron and support Andy and the show: If you are so inspired: contribute.    Show Highlights: [01:30] Welcome to the show, Ira! [02:15] Ira shares his background and when he left pre-med for concerts, nightclubs, and lighting. [04:40] Ira discusses getting involved with a company that did the moving lights. [05:50] Ira speaks about producing rave shows in the late 80s. [07:11] Preston Bailey was someone who helped Ira's career take off. [08:10] What is your overall philosophy concerning design? [09:28] Ira believes that the mood you create with lighting is part of the experience. [10:37] Ira works the dimmer, and he says that can make the entire event. [11:42] "It's not the turning of the screw; it's knowing which screw to turn." [12:39] During an event, are you in contact with the designer, or are you on your own? [13:28] Ira shares his process and who he works with most: clients, designers, or planners.  [15:45] Ira describes a project he did with Preston Bailey and how he created the event's lighting design elements. [17:35] Ira speaks about the biggest challenges he faces when doing the lighting. [20:16] Were you asked to do anything special for LeBron James' wedding? [22:29] Ira discusses doing the lighting he calls architainment. [24:41] How far do you dig into the brand when creating designs for companies? [26:08] Ira shares his view on technology and where he sees it going in the future. [28:36] There is a lot of technical equipment out there, but few people know how to use it. [30:25] Ira believes that time is so important. It takes time to make it look good. [32:52] Ira shares some things he thinks event industry professionals need to consider when working with lighting designers. [34:04] What do you still want to accomplish? What are you looking forward to? [35:46] Thank you for being on the show!   RESOURCES   Find Ira: Levy NYC Video Reels @levynyc LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook    Follow The Wedding Biz on Social:  The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz   The Wedding Biz Network The Music Makers   Support The Wedding Biz by clicking here.    Mentioned: Preston Bailey Episode 66 on The Wedding Biz Preston Bailey Episode 88 on The Wedding Biz Preston Bailey Episode 265 on The Wedding Biz Preston Bailey Episode 321 on The Wedding Biz Colin Cowie Episode 128 on The Wedding Biz Colin Cowie Episode 135  on The Wedding Biz Colin Cowie Episode 267 on The Wedding Biz LeRoy Bennett Episode 35 on The Music Makers

In Episode No. 7 our Bookdragon SandyJ recommends books that will help you to bring some magic to your life, should you wish to do so. Fantasy books for the young at heart and grown women with shapeshifters galore and an all encompassing lifestyle book by a South African wedding planner. Katie O‘Neills „Tea Dragon Society“ invites you to enjoy a warm cup of tea and a cozy hour of reading on a chilly Autumn afternoon. „Betwixt“ by Darynda Jones is for all the grown women who wish for witches that are as cool as themselves and older then 25. Colin Cowie gives you the necessary tips to style your life as chic as it could be. In other news: Libby by Overdrive is now available for users of the Stadtbibliothek Karlsruhe and SandyJ is loving it. September 2020 brings new books in troves, so our Bookdragon gives you a few hints what books to look out for. Luckily with Fall around the corner the weather and reading chairs are calling for travelling in fictional worlds instead of the real world. Premiere stream: Sunday, September 6, 7 P.M. Podcast Apps: next week Host: SandyJ Music: Erwin Schmidt

I couldn’t be more thrilled to have the beloved Brooklyn-based, brilliantly inventive José Rolon as my guest on this week’s Wedding Wisdom Podcast. Not only is José an incredibly sought-after event planner, he’s also a genuine social media phenomenon, whose playful alter-ego, @nycgaydad,  has attracted over one hundred thousand followers between TikTok and Instagram. Get to know José Rolon, the exceptionally talented, wildly charismatic event/wedding innovator and beloved single father of three. Listen and enjoy. And as always, please stay safe and stay healthy. Enjoy, -Doug

I recently started a series, coming out from time to time called "A Conversation With," which will feature general conversations with a variety of previous and new guests. Today's conversation is with Colin Cowie, who has been on the show two previous times: Part 1 was episode #128 and Part 2 was #135. I urge you to check them out as they were both absolutely engaging interviews.  Colin was my first entre into the luxe wedding market, with Kushner Entertainment when he hired myself and one of my bands, SoundConnection, to perform for two of his major wedding clients. Those two experiences, with Colin, taught me the true meaning of luxury and I will forever be grateful to him for such invaluable lessons.  In today's release, Colin talks about what a typical day is like now, during the Covid-19 pandemic, and what he has learned about himself. He also talks about how his brand is diversified, working in hospitality outside of the event business, having launched a new division of his event planning and design business.  Colin is currently working on his 11th book, which he tells us all about, as well as a television program of which he will give details another time. Colin also talks about how he is staying connected with future clients and how he's dealing with his team during this difficult time.  We also discuss what the event industry will look like, in the future, and his suggestion for couples whose weddings have had to be postponed. Colin addresses how he'll run his event business, moving forward, and defines what true luxury is all about.  This is not a conversation to be missed!

In today’s episode, we toast with the Guru of Celebration, Colin Cowie, as we chat about the art of celebrating life as it should be. #morethanaparty @ColinCowieLifestyle Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

This episode of Wedding Talk Radio features Colin Cowie, an international event and wedding planner. He has worked with big celebrities of our time, and his 35 years of experience in the industry allows him to talk comprehensively about event planning. He highlights that it’s important to keep the runway going in the midst of the COVID-19 epidemic. Also, he believes that this downtime can be an opportune time to reestablish your business so that you’ll be ready for the big comeback. Conversation Highlights [01:00] Colin shares his personal experiences and thoughts about the positive effects of the pandemic on people’s life [04:55] Some ways on how to slash expenses [06:14] Take the opportunity to think about what and how can you use this downtime effectively [07:12] Colin mentions that he applied for PPP [08:02] Figure out what does your business look like when you come back [09:05] Practical tip #1: Get a safe environment for your team [09:25] Practical tip #2: Give the team education and all the tools that they need [10:18] Practical tip #3: Figure out what does the event look like when the business comes back [03:03] The idea of categorizing people: A snapshot [14:32] The need to learn the great realization this COVID-19 pandemic [16:37] Shelly brings out the concern on responsibility in protecting clients. [22:14] Coleen asks for recommendations from Colin. [26:12] Kyle seeks for some tips on how to reinvent one’s wedding business. [27:38] Colin talks about his own grandiose wedding. [32:51] A show and a book (Above and Beyond: How to Stand Up in a Crowd) are coming soon [39:06] What’s Colin’s next big event? [39:59] Colin recommends conferences. [41:45] Kelly asks if there are sources of information that Colin recommends [42:35] Colin talks about the competition in the wedding industry [47:35] What does Colin look for in a creative partner? [50:29] Is Colin open for internship and conducting a workshop Complete shownotes and video can be found on our website https://weddingtalkradio.com/2020/05/04/colin-cowie-of-colin-cowie-lifestyle-wedding-planner/

Do you prefer to take photographs digitally or with film? Listen as Andy and Rachel discuss Jose Villa and why he uses film almost exclusively. Rachel is the Owner and CEO of The Lake Como Wedding Planner based in Como, Italy. She works with clients directly but also has the pleasure of morphing into the local team for many foreign agencies such as planners in the states like Lisa Vorce on Chrissy Tegan and John Legend's wedding, Colin Cowie, and many more.  Jose Villa is a celebrity photographer known for crafting vibrant, fine art images that are as unique as the people in the photographs. Jose has been published in many magazines around the world and was listed in the Top 10 Wedding Photographers in the World by the American Photo Magazine. This interview from two years ago is being re-released to get you ready for Part 2 coming out in a few weeks. Rachel has worked with Jose many times and shares how focused he is on-site, his underlying intuition and empathy when shooting weddings. They chat about how important it is to connect with the client, whether you are the photographer, the planner, the entertainment, or any other creative partner in the industry. The more you feel connected and know the client, the more you want to do a better job because you have a personal bond with them. Listen, as Andy and Rachel discuss how guests taking pictures with their phones can get in the way during the ceremony and why they should just sit back and let the professional photographers do their jobs. Plug into this episode and keep a lookout for Part 2 in the next few weeks.   Show Highlights: [00:45] Welcome to the show again, Rachel! [01:54] Rachel shares that she has worked with Jose many times. [02:46] Rachel speaks about the fact that Jose uses mostly film and how it has a beautiful look that has become very popular. [04:36] They talk about how the focus has to be so in-depth when shooting with film. [05:49] Rachel shares that having seen Jose work, she understands how focused he is when he is on-site, and has an underlying sense of intuition and empathy. [08:33] Andy shares about a destination wedding he just did and how connected he felt to the client. [09:46] Rachel chats about how important it is with clients, it creates another level of trust. [14:03] Rachel shares that it makes a special moment if you put your phone away and enjoy the moment. [14:54] Thank you, everyone, for listening.  Follow The Wedding Biz on Social:  The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz   Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues!   Find Jose: Jose Villa  Jose’s Book: Fine Art Wedding Photography @jose-villa Facebook @josevillaphoto Pinterest @josevilla Instagram   This Week's Guest Co-Host, Rachel Birthistle Rachel Birthistle Rachel@lakecomoweddings Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest   Links The Lake Como Wedding Planner  

Celebrity cookie artist and Emmy award winning set and prop stylist, Dani Boglivi-Fiori, spent several seasons working on The Martha Stewart Show as a prop stylist and making appearances as the show's "resident cookie expert" before pursuing her dream of owning her own couture cookie and event design business. For years, her business was solely online with the fear that she wouldn’t make it in the “café” space. But, just under three years ago, Dani did it. She opened her first brick and mortar cookie shop/ cafe in Asbury Park, NJ. Know as Sweet Dani B, she spreads the cookie love with the most incredible edible cookie art as well as through workshops, cookie parties or just through her warm and inviting café. Her cookie client list includes Martha Stewart, Ralph Lauren, Darcy Miller and Colin Cowie as well as being featured in top publications such as Real Simple, US Weekly, Martha Stewart Living and Weddings, Family Fun and Good Housekeeping. A native Jersey Girl, dedicated foodie and determined love spreader, Dani lives with her husband, Keith and Jack Russell Terrier, Hope Fiori. Join in the cookie fun w/ @SweetDaniB! We ate cookies & talked about:

Andy is one of my favorite shows, great story teller and a very interesting life path.  Check it out if you missed this the first time, definately Best of! Andy Kushner entered show business on his own terms at 15.  He started what became a very successful cover band in Tampa Fl called Rhythm, performing to literally over 100,000 people during his teenage years. After a 16 year corporate career, almost 20 years ago, he went full-time in the music business with Andy Kushner Entertainment Design custom crafting over-the-top experiences for weddings, corporate events and gala fundraisers utilizing the powerful and emotional impact of live music featuring celebrity acts and his own company-formed and managed bands SoundConnection, Rhythm6, Marquise, SoundNation and the PopCulture Strings. Andy and his company have received practically every event industry award possible, including: Top 25 Trendsetter, by Modern Bride along with Colin Cowie, Essie and Sylvia Weinstock Best Entertainment Producer Award, by International Special Events Society, and International Entertainer of the Year Spotlight Awards, by Event Solutions Magazine. Andy is now taking the ever-competitive podcast industry by storm with two shows, The Wedding Biz with event industry celebrities and Extraordinary Ordinary People in which he uncovers the extraordinary in ordinary people with deep and meaningful engaging conversation. Andy Kushner Vroom Veer Stories Discovered music at age 6 and fell in love; music practice was never a chore Started a cover band at age 15 and worked paid gigs through his teens Studied Business in college while working on his music on the side Worked in Corporate selling computer/printer supplies; avoided the big promotions Finally transitioned to full time music business starting with weddings Transformed what people think of a "Wedding Band"; raised the bar on talent and showmanship Established the Extraordinary Ordinary People podcast to talk with ordinary people with an inspiring life path Launched the Wedding Biz Podcast to help brides, grooms and pros make more meaningful events Andy Kushner Links Extraordinary Ordinary People Podcast The Wedding Biz Podcast AndyKushner.com Facebook Twitter

Welcome to the Wedding Biz Christina Matteucci, the Executive Director at David Beahm Experiences. Christina is on the show to discuss how to be the best “number two” to your “number ones,” and how your “number ones” can best support the “number twos.” Andy and Christina take a deep dive into this topic as it is one that Christina has spoken about at several events, not the least of which is the Engage Summit. Christina is affectionately known as “Teuccimama” by her colleagues and friends in the events industry and has been in the industry for almost two decades. She has first-hand experience in creating a sustainable and functional infrastructure to support a growing creative talent. Her experience has made her a highly sought-after resource in the event industry and a captivating speaker on all things “Number Two.”  Christina has so many amazing nuggets of information to share about building a business around a creative talent and what that entails. Listen in as she reveals a bit about her past, her love for the performing arts, and how she managed to combine her childhood dream with a love for events to create an amazing career. Christina is a force in the industry and shares what it took for her to move!   Show Highlights: [01:53] Andy welcomes Christina to the show and asks about her tag line on the about page of David Beahm Experiences.  [03:43] What was Christina’s focus at NYU Tisch School of the Arts?  [04:46] Why did Christina go to Tisch?  [06:21] Christina shares her post-graduation experiences and why she turned away from the performing arts.  [08:24] How bridal magazines and The Knot influenced Christina’s new career path and goals. [11:26] Christina found David Beahm on The Knot… and did her research. [12:25] What could Christina bring to the table with David Beahm’s company?  [13:24] Christina shares her strategy for being noticed by David Beahm. [14:06] How she finally got her chance to speak with him and wowed him into hiring her during a very volatile time. [17:52] How counseling has helped Christina and David’s work relationship. [19:05] What are Christina’s responsibilities as executive director of destinations? [21:17] Christina explains her beliefs on how number 1s and number 2s create magic together. [23:45] Why David’s support is the reason Christina is so great at enhancing his business. [26:29] Christina has never considered herself an entrepreneur… she’s a king-maker! [30:10] Turnover costs money. Christina shares how David Beahm Experiences has reduced their turnover. [31:58] Why success does not mean having your name on the door. [33:46] What can a number one do to keep a number two?  [37:59] Number ones shouldn’t fear the development of their number twos. [39:15] Christina’s alternative name for number twos. [40:57] How to nurture current clients into becoming legacy clients. [44:18] What topics are on Christina’s mind for her public speaking engagements?  [45:52] How to reach Christina!   LINKS & RESOURCES   Follow The Wedding Biz on Social:  The Wedding Biz The Wedding Biz on Instagram: @theweddingbiz The Wedding Biz on Facebook: @theweddingbiz andy@theweddingbiz.com   Title Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by PartySlate - the first website designed specifically for event professionals and venues!   Christina Matteucci Christina on David Beahm’s Website Christina’s Talk on TedxBeaconStreetChristina on Instagram @TeucciMama Christina on LinkedInDavid Beahm on Instagram @davidbeahmDavid Beahm on Facebook @davidbeahmdesign   Mentioned during the interview: NYU Tisch School of the ArtsPreston Bailey’s Episodes on the Wedding Biz - Part 1 and  Part 2 Colin Cowie’s Episodes on the Wedding Biz - Part 1  and  Part 2 Robert Isabell The Knot  David Beahm’s Episode on the Wedding Biz Lynn Easton’s Episodes on the Wedding Biz - Part 1  and  Part 2 Bryan Rafanelli’s Episode on the Wedding Biz Ceci Johnson’s Episode on the Wedding BizColin Cowie’s Episodes on the Wedding Biz - Part 1 and Part 2

In this episode of The Next Level, Andy Kushner and guest co-host, Zachary Oxman, discuss key topics from last week’s interview with Ray Thompson. Zack is a true artist and creative who has quite a story as a sculptor and how his work ties in to what Ray does.    Welcome to another episode of The Next Level, in which I have a guest co-host, and the two of us talk about my recent interview of the week. This week we discuss lighting pioneer, Ray Thompson who is an icon in the event and lux wedding industry.  As an artist and creative, Ray has a lot to add to how powerful of an impact lighting can make. This is a fun episode to talk about because Ray is the founder of Images by Lighting and a true innovator in the field of lighting design. His award-winning team create emotional environments for events including lux weddings, major film events, and lighting designs for superstar musical artists.   Show Highlights: [02:49] Zack finds it fascinating that Ray creates works of art through the manipulation of light. [03:16] Zack realizes how important it is to display his work under the right light and the right setting. It completely changes everything,  [04:06] Ray does a lot of jobs for Colin Cowie where he first does a walk through and then goes home and imagines it in his mind. [04:51] Anything we see is the effect of light that gives us our perception of that experience. It's an incredibly powerful tool for an artist and planner/designer to use. [05:15] Ray uses light as a pointer to create emotional artwork.  [05:36] His is the choreography of emotion. He uses color to elicits emotions from the clients.  [06:35] Artists have to distill down the story they are sharing to apply their light with it.  [07:51] Finding a collaborative way to bring the people along on the journey is like being a conductor.  [09:27]  Ray shares his favorite design advice which is being involved with the event producer as early as possible. [12:54] We look at what's to be done and maximizing on a budget, creating quality with what you have to work with. [13:36] If you don't pay yourself enough to be in business then you won't be in business very long. [13:57] The importance of talking about every aspect of production, before getting to the locations to start working, is part of loving and embracing the business aspect. [15:48] Andy brings up a book, Rocket Fuel, which discusses how the “visionary” is the creative who comes up with the ideas. It's the “integrator’s” responsibility to execute. [16:54] Ray's team also has post meetings to discuss anything that went right or wrong during the production experience and to discuss if there can be more efficient solutions.    LINKS: The Wedding Biz Website The Wedding Biz Instagram The Wedding Biz Facebook   Images By Lighting Images by Lighting Images by Lighting on Instagram Images by Lighting on Facebook @images_lighting on Twitter   This Week’s Guest Co-Host Zac Oxman Zachary Oxman on Instagram Zachary Oxman Facebook Page   Last Week’s Guest Co-Host THE NEXT LEVEL: ANDREA EPPOLITO: Celebrating the Greatest Luxury of All   LINKS & RESOURCES: Rocket Fuel: The One Essential Combination That Will Get You More of What You Want from Your Business   Brett Culp Interview on The Wedding Biz BRETT CULP: OBSTACLE OR OPPORTUNITY   Colin Cowie’s Interview On The Wedding Biz: Colin Cowie: Part 1 Creating Groundbreaking Luxury Experiences Colin Cowie: Part 2 Creating Groundbreaking Luxury Experiences   David Beahm’s Interview On The Wedding Biz: David Beahm: Risk & Synchronicity   SPONSOR LINKS Kushner Entertainment www.kushnerentertainment.com

Today’s guest co-host, Harmony Walton, joins Andy to help reflect on The Wedding Biz interview with Colin Cowie, Part 2, and how Colin finds innovation in everything. Harmony Walton is the founder of The Bridal Bar, luxury destination weddings and honeymoon blog site, Jet Fete, and host of the Bridal Bar Radio. She has a decade of experience in marketing, consulting and brand representation in the luxury wedding industry. Harmony has many celebrity clients such as Tom Cruise and Katherine Heigl. Listen today and discover new insight on Colin’s wonderful new interview. Show Highlights: Innovation in everything and Colin’s process with it Giving yourself time to think and reflect as part of your job Andy’s epiphany for his podcasts from giving himself space to reflect Employees retention increases when you create space for them The constant need to reinvent yourself and stay relevant Living in a buyers world The endpoint in the sales process One of Harmony’s trips she will always remember Improving closing ratios Pricing, budgets and how it is a sensitive topic Creative value and standing firm on prices but not having an industry standard Being able to admit you are not a good fit with a client   Resources: The Wedding Biz Website Instagram: @weddingbizshow Colin Cowie Lifestyle Website Instagram: @colincowie Direct link to Harmony’s episode on The Wedding Biz Harmony Walton Website Instagram: @bridalbar Sponsors: OFD Consulting Website Kushner Entertainment Website

Designing and planning an event is creating theater and telling a story. Today’s guest has a unique set of skills that he uses to tell these wonderful stories that we call weddings and special events. Colin Cowie, of Colin Cowie Lifestyle, is an iconic event planner and designer. Yet again, Colin is working on a host of exciting, fun and diverse projects that will take him all over the world. The experience starts the moment the clients arrive to meet him. Tune in today and get the inside scoop on the exhilarating world of Colin Cowie. Show Highlights: Colin’s answer to what were his favorite events of the previous year Creating theater, telling stories The particular ways Colin educates his employees/team of his company culture The process of being innovative and constantly reinventing oneself Embracing millennials and operating in a buyer’s market The process from when a client arrives through the event How Colin prices his services Creative partners and how Colin chooses them How Colin works with his creative partners What Colin dreams of after all these years Brainstorming sessions and creating what is relevant Focusing on sustainable hospitality Resources: The Wedding Biz Website Instagram: @weddingbizshow   Colin Cowie Website Colin Cowie Lifestyle Website Colin Cowie Lifestyle Facebook: @colincowielifestyle Colin Cowie Facebook: @itsmecolincowie Colin Cowie Lifestyle Instagram: @colincowielifestyle Colin Cowie Instagram: @colincowie   Sponsor: OFD Consulting Website Kushner Entertainment Website

Being able to curate an authentic experience that coincides with luxury is what ultimately differentiates a high-end wedding planner from another. Colin Cowie is a brilliant designer and highly sought after wedding planner, due in part to his special capabilities and desire to create a unique experience for every client. His clientele includes celebrities such as Oprah, Elton John, Jennifer Aniston, Kim Kardashian, Tom Cruise, and many more.   In today’s episode, Andy Kushner and co-host, Abby Larson, founder of Style Me Pretty, discuss the strategies and methods Colin uses in order to ensure a luxurious experience for each of his clients. Tune into this episode of The Next Level for more tactical strategies to bring authenticity into your wedding experience and learn how to consistently offer fresh and creative ideas.   Show Highlights: Bringing authenticity to create luxurious experiences Being authentic to yourself as a designer Making the right space and time for every individual event Creating a unique experience along the way Developing trust with a client   Establishing a brand Trusting yourself but being open-minded to other approaches Making sacrifices to stand behind partners you believe in   Colin Cowie Website   Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube   CO-HOST’S, ABBY LARSON/STYLE ME PRETTY, LINKS Website    Instagram Facebook    Pinterest   The Wedding Biz LINKS Website Instagram Facebook   SPONSOR LINKS OFD Consulting www.ofdconsulting.com Kushner Entertainment www.kushnerentertainment.com

REVISIT: Colin Cowie is a top designer for all things weddings—as well as galas, charitable events, corporate and destination celebrations. He's beloved by the likes of Oprah, Jerry Seinfeld, Elton John, Michael Jordan, Bruce Willis, Jennifer Aniston, and countless other A-list celebrities. Ever since Colin arrived in Los Angeles from Kitzwe, Zambia at the height of apartheid in 1985, his professional life has soared. While teaching cooking lessons at age 23, he met a woman whose chance encounter soon led to his first wedding assignment for a local bachelor: Hugh Hefner. Thirty-one years of parties, weddings, and multi-day events later, he’s never created the same event twice. The degree to which Colin cares for and personalizes his work is not just unmatched, it's nearly indescribable, and precisely why he’s consistently relied upon by the most discerning of clientele. He learns everything there is to know about his clients, over hors-d'oeuvres and champagne, until the event he crafts (and the journey on which he takes his clients to get there) is not just perfectly tailored, but permanently unique. When he isn't designing weddings and Fortune 500 parties, Oprah Winfrey’s Legends Ball or Guinness Book of World Records-breaking pyrotechnic shows abroad, Colin works as "creator-director" for elite brands like NetJets, Dom Pérignon, and Bergdorf Goodman; even private islands. Idyllic as Colin’s life may sound, and so often is, he and Andy extend their conversation today beyond the exclusive glamour of the luxury events industry to the unseen challenges once faced in the midst of the great recession, Colin's daily routines (from meditation and "I am" statements to nightcaps), professional strategies, and the critical value of humility and gratitude. Colin Cowie Website   Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube   The Wedding Biz LINKS The Wedding Biz Website The Wedding Biz Instagram The Wedding Biz Facebook   SPONSOR LINKS OFD Consulting www.ofdconsulting.com Kushner Entertainment www.kushnerentertainment.com

Today it's all about Andy! For quite a while now, people have been asking him to air an interview about himself. Andy has been interviewed on many different podcasts, so today he decided to publish the most recent of these, with Mary Swaffield, of the Wedpreneur Podcast. Andy and Mary will be talking about what Andy has learned from all the amazing icons whom he has interviewed on The Wedding Biz Podcast. Mary asks Andy about the common threads in the more than seventy-five interviews he's done with some of the biggest names in the wedding and events’ industry. Andy addresses topics like cyclical struggles, dealing with anxiety and fear, and also his changing perspective about the way he views the business aspect of this highly creative industry. Show Highlights: Andy talks about his role in the wedding industry. Andy explains what inspired him to start a podcast. Some of the incredible event-icons Andy has worked with through his music & entertainment business, Kushner Entertainment. Sylvia Weinstock, cake-designer, was the first icon Andy interviewed on The Wedding Biz podcast. Mary is a huge fan. She really gets a sense of storytelling from Andy's podcast. The way that Andy manages to craft a story, with emotional impact,  around the guests who he interviews. Addressing the way Colin Cowie designs with the five senses, from an interview in 2017. These icons are risk takers and create a completely unique experience for each and every client. Connecting with the clients on a really deep level is necessary to avoid a cookie-cutter experience. Preston Bailey has been on Andy's show twice and is really a humble person. Some of the common threads running through Andy's interviews. Becoming aware that all businesses are cyclical. The struggle of creatives balancing their art with the business aspect. Building and dealing with your business is a creative act. It's important to be aware that business is also hard for the dedicated event-icons. Robert Fountain always feels anxiety and he spoke to Andy about how he uses it as a motivator. What Andy does when he catches himself with negative thoughts. It's really all about your perception. The way that Mary was been taught to use her fear. Learning to turn obstacles into ways to grow. How Andy turns problems into blessings. Andy talks about the biggest change that he's seen in the wedding industry. The incredible energy of a live band. Finding ways to stay grounded and connected. NOTE: This interview of Andy took place in November of 2018 and some information mentioned about The Next Level episodes has changed. It is now released on Wednesdays with varying guest co-hosts, all of whom are previous guests of The Wedding Biz.     Links and Resources: Recommended books: The Inner Game of Tennis, by W. Timothy Gallwey                                  The Obstacle is the Way, by Ryan Holiday The Wedding Biz website: www.theweddingbiz.com The Wedding Biz on social media: Facebook Instagram Andy's entertainment site: www.kushnerentertainment.com Mary's website: www.thewedpreneur.com The following guest interviews, from The Wedding Biz, are referred to: Colin Cowie Preston Bailey: Part 1  Part 2 Bryan Rafanelli Sylvia Weinstock Robert Fountain Alison Hotchkiss Rinderknecht Jes Gordon

AIC Hotel Group's Director of Weddings, Carilis Felipe dives into all things destination weddings, discussing the process of booking a destination wedding at one of our hotels, the ever controversial minimum length of stay and location assignments. In addition to a candid interview with celebrity event designer Colin Cowie, and a special appearance from Kenya Garcia -- weddings manager at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya.

Hosts: David Adler, Beth Kormanik Guest: Colin Cowie   In this episode of GatherGeeks, David Adler, C.E.O. of BizBash, and Beth Kormanik, editor in chief of BizBash, hear from Colin Cowie, owner of full-service design and production firm Colin Cowie Lifestyle. The legendary event producer shares his tips for making a good first impression, appealing to all the senses, and winning over clients and event guests. He also discusses the most overused word in the industry today, the best time of day for a client meeting, how he got his first big break, how to look out for your team, and much more.   Download or subscribe to the show at bizbash.com/gathergeeks. Running time 28:37  

Colin Cowie is a top designer for all things weddings, as well as galas, charitable events, corporate and destination celebrations. He's beloved by the likes of Oprah, Jerry Seinfeld, Elton John, Michael Jordan, Bruce Willis, Jennifer Aniston, and countless other A-list celebrities. Since Colin arrived in Los Angeles from Kitzwe, Zambia at the height of apartheid in 1985, his professional life has soared. Colin grew up in a household that constantly entertained friends and family, so when he came to the US, he just started doing the same thing he had always been doing at home in Zambia. While teaching cooking lessons at age 23, he met a woman whose chance encounter soon led to his first wedding assignment for a local bachelor: Hugh Hefner. Thirty-one years of parties, weddings, and multi-day events later, he’s never created the same event twice. The degree to which Colin cares for and personalizes his work is not just unmatched, it's nearly indescribable, and precisely why he’s consistently relied upon by the most discerning of clientele. He learns everything there is to know about his clients, over hors-d'oeuvres and champagne, until the event he crafts (and the journey on which he takes his clients to get there) is not just perfectly tailored, but permanently unique. When he isn't designing weddings and Fortune 500 parties, Oprah Winfrey’s Legends Ball or Guinness Book of World Records-breaking pyrotechnic shows abroad, Colin works as "creator-director" for elite brands like NetJets, Dom Perignon, and Bergdorf Goodman; even private islands. Idyllic as Colin’s life may sound, and so often is, he and Andy extend their conversation today beyond the exclusive glamour of the luxury events industry to the unseen challenges once faced in the midst of the great recession, Colin's daily routines (from meditation and "I am" statements to nightcaps), professional strategies, and the critical value of humility and gratitude. Show Highlights: Beef jerky and Jaegermeister aren’t things you normally associate with Colin - hear his story about both. Delivering babies? Yep, Colin’s done that too. Even at the top of his game, Colin wasn’t immune from crisis - hear how he lost 80% of his income almost overnight. Learn how Colin feels about his employees leaving to start their own business. Colin’s philosophy behind what he charges for his services. Learn about Colin’s multiple streams of income and his recommendations for you to create them too.     Links •Colin Cowie Lifestyle •Instagram •Facebook •Twitter •Wilkie Blog •FOOD, Inc. NYC •Learn more about each of Colin's books on Goodreads andAmazon

Crafting a Meaningful Life - Mary Crafts-Homer. Melanie Johnson and Jenn Foster interview Mary Crafts-Homer on their Podcast Elite Expert Insiders. When Mary started Culinary Crafts in 1984 her sights were set on always being her very best. Now, she’s catering events for Oprah Winfrey during the Sundance Film Festival, her company is the largest off-premise caterer in Utah, and she is known as Utah’s Martha Stewart! Mary’s events and catering tips are regularly featured in national media such as Martha Stewart’s Wedding website, “The Knot” wedding blog, Colin Cowie’s television show “Get Married”, and Catering Magazine. Locally Mary has become a familiar face on “Good Things Utah”, “Good Morning Utah” and on KBYU public television, where Mary’s popular cooking show “Culinary Creations” is still being aired. Learn more about Mary at http://www.culinarycrafts.com Follow her podcast on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com

Colin Cowie is a top designer for all things weddings—as well as galas, charitable events, corporate and destination celebrations. He's beloved by the likes of Oprah, Jerry Seinfeld, Elton John, Michael Jordan, Bruce Willis, Jennifer Aniston, and countless other A-list celebrities. Ever since Colin arrived in Los Angeles from Kitzwe, Zambia at the height of apartheid in 1985, his professional life has soared. While teaching cooking lessons at age 23, he met a woman whose chance encounter soon led to his first wedding assignment for a local bachelor: Hugh Hefner. Thirty-one years of parties, weddings, and multi-day events later, he’s never created the same event twice. The degree to which Colin cares for and personalizes his work is not just unmatched, it's nearly indescribable, and precisely why he’s consistently relied upon by the most discerning of clientele. He learns everything there is to know about his clients, over hors d'oeuvres and champagne, until the event he crafts (and the journey on which he takes his clients to get there) is not just perfectly tailored, but permanently unique. When he isn't designing weddings and Fortune 500 parties, Oprah Winfrey’s Legends Ball or Guinness Book of World Records-breaking pyrotechnic shows abroad, Colin works as "creator-director" for elite brands like NetJets, Dom Pérignon, and Bergdorf Goodman; even private islands. Idyllic as Colin’s life may sound, and so often is, he and Andy extend their conversation today beyond the exclusive glamour of the luxury events industry to the unseen challenges once faced in the midst of the great recession, Colin's daily routines (from meditation and "I am" statements to nightcaps), professional strategies, and the critical value of humility and gratitude. Links Colin Cowie Lifestyle Instagram Facebook Twitter Wilkie Blog FOOD, Inc. NYC Learn more about each of Colin's books on Goodreads and Amazon    

Andy Kushner entered show business on his own terms at 15.  He started what became a very successful cover band in Tampa Fl called Rhythm, performing to literally over 100,000 people during his teenage years. After a 16 year corporate career, almost 20 years ago, he went full-time in the music business with Andy Kushner Entertainment Design custom crafting over-the-top experiences for weddings, corporate events and gala fundraisers utilizing the powerful and emotional impact of live music featuring celebrity acts and his own company-formed and managed bands SoundConnection, Rhythm6, Marquise, SoundNation and the PopCulture Strings. Andy and his company have received practically every event industry award possible, including: Top 25 Trendsetter, by Modern Bride along with Colin Cowie, Essie and Sylvia Weinstock Best Entertainment Producer Award, by International Special Events Society, and International Entertainer of the Year Spotlight Awards, by Event Solutions Magazine. Andy is now taking the ever-competitive podcast industry by storm with two shows, The Wedding Biz with event industry celebrities and Extraordinary Ordinary People in which he uncovers the extraordinary in ordinary people with deep and meaningful engaging conversation. Andy Kushner Vroom Veer Stories Discovered music at age 6 and fell in love; music practice was never a chore Started a cover band at age 15 and worked paid gigs through his teens Studied Business in college while working on his music on the side Worked in Corporate selling computer/printer supplies; avoided the big promotions Finally transitioned to full time music business starting with weddings Transformed what people think of a "Wedding Band"; raised the bar on talent and showmanship Established the Extraordinary Ordinary People podcast to talk with ordinary people with an inspiring life path Launched the Wedding Biz Podcast to help brides, grooms and pros make more meaningful events Andy Kushner Links Extraordinary Ordinary People Podcast The Wedding Biz Podcast AndyKushner.com Facebook Twitter

CliffCentral.com — Khali Collins spent a week in Italy at the prestigious Engage Luxury Wedding Summit. Colin Cowie, a world renowned Event Designer and Planner, had a great conversation with Khali regarding weddings.

Over the years Javier has developed his own aesthetics by observing the nature and architecture of the world's great cities. Adopting ancient sacred geometry as his photographic vision allows him to translate organic objects and architectural details into symbolic geometric patterns, to create bold color-centric abstract works that in a surreal way become Universal. Javier strives to create images that access our subconscious understanding of ratio and geometric forms, thereby enhancing our connection with the spiritual and natural world. By blurring the lines between nature and abstract, he is able to go through the gamut of color, volume and texture, to create images that are otherworldly. His work seeks to uncover the subtle beauty of coincidence and anomaly found in nature. Javier's proclivity towards this process is the key to understanding why people have observed that his photography is so hypnotic. Throughout Javier's work is a sense of de-familiarization and detachment from everyday ephemera while trying to connect us to our true self, creating awareness of the balance that should exist between mind body and spirit. Javier has had solo exhibitions around the world including in: New York City, Paris, Monaco, Tokyo, Madrid, Seville, Beirut, Hong Kong, and Art Basel. He has also published two monographic books, “Dimensions” (2010) and “Visual Vibrations” (2012). His clients and collectors include luminaries Bill Clinton, Pelé, Michael Bloomberg, Colin Cowie, Dr. Phil and brands such as FENDI Casa and BVLGARI. Javier is also dedicated to giving back and helping people from all walks of life. He is involved with several non-profit organizations to which he donates his time and talent. These include: United Cerebral Palsy of New York City, Ackerman Institute for the Family, Lumiere and colour 93 in Paris, and The American Parkinson Disease Association.

Impress your guests with the ultimate holiday party style tips

  Join me as I talk to  Robert Herdandez CEO and Marketing Director Carlos Platero about Seda France !Since its inception in 2001, Austin, TX-based Seda France™ Home Fragrances has grown into a leading name in the home fragrance market, earning a reputation for exceptional scents and the signature packaging that has made their products renowned as the "gifts that need no wrapping paper."Media acclaim for Seda France has been widespread & glowing, including mentions in Lucky, Domino, Vogue, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, Town & Country, Better Homes & Gardens and numerous other publications. Lifestyle guru, Colin Cowie, recommended Seda France candles as the "perfect gift" on The Oprah Winfrey Show and followed up by introducing his own line of Seda France candles on Home Shopping Network. Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle and Tatler have all touted the company's candles as "the gift of luxury." The editors of Victoria Magazine swooned over the 22-ingredient holiday candle while the discerning noses at Country Home called French Tulip a "favorite." And O, The Oprah Magazine found the candles to be "heaven-scented." The inspiration for Seda France's original collection  the Classic Toile series with its distinctive "Pagoda box" packaging  came from the centuries-old French "toile de jouy" design element, and the richly-scented candles were an immediate hit. Both retailers and customers quickly came to expect ideal gifts and pitch-perfect packaging from Seda France. This led to new collections to satisfy the need for even more luxurious scents and incredibly creative packaging Color Fragrance Luxury A distinctive take on those qualities and a devotion to providing top-notch commodities is what sets Seda France apart. And there's plenty more just around the corner  

Wedding Designer to the stars Colin Cowie shares some great honeymoon packing tips.

These days, brides are all about saving money, but you don’t have to scrimp on having a fabulous wedding! We’ve got stylish cost saving ideas for your ceremony, reception, and even your venue! We see how top designers are creating gowns to fit brides with all budgets, and Colin Cowie shares tips for saving money at your cocktail hour

Over half a million brides and grooms “get married away,” so we got the do’s and don’t’s, wedding fashions, and hair and makeup looks for the destination bride. Colin Cowie shares one of his own favorite destination weddings in Mexico, and we see how to create an instant wow factor at your wedding with unexpectedly edible décor

One of the most meaningful ways to make your ceremony personal is by infusing it with traditions from your background. We show you some of the ways you can do that, along with some of Colin Cowie’s favorite ceremony traditions. Olympic Gold medalist Kerri Walsh shares her wedding day memories of exchanging rings with husband Casey Jennings, and we’ve got the latest trends in rings, and bridesmaid dresses, for your day.

The Hollywood stars of yesteryear are making a comeback – we show you how to take the Old Hollywood glam look and make it your own for your wedding day. Colin Cowie shares an old Hollywood glam wedding he created in Beverly Hills, and Julie Pryor tells us about Desperate Housewife Marcia Cross’s California nuptials with hints of the old glam style as well. We’ve also got tips and ideas for making the most of your wedding memories.

A non-traditional aisle will guarantee an unforgettable grand entrance on your wedding day. We’ll show you beautiful jewelry options to accessorize that gorgeous gown. Experts give great tips on hiring the right wedding planner. Plus, make sure you arrive in style with the right wedding day transportation. Our host Colin Cowie gives you a tip to make your wedding amazing. And you’ll see a fabulous Savannah wedding that’s full of southern charm. Plus, a great guest book that holds mementos along with well-wishes.

Learn how the 5 senses are crucial to the overall wedding experience for you and your guests. See why short wedding dresses equal dramatic impact when you come down the aisle. We’ve got expert tips for a flawless first dance. And we’ll share great options for reception music. Our host Colin Cowie gives you a tip to make your wedding amazing. And wedding planner Julie Ling gives us the scoop on one of her favorite weddings, that of American Pie star Jason Biggs. Plus, Nature’s Notebook has a unique way to show your love through art.

Make your wedding stand out by holding it in a unique venue. We get a look at the charmingly unique wedding of Baltimore Ravens tight end Dan Wilcox. Find out how to tell your own love story at your wedding through videography. And meet celebrity cake guru Sylvia Weinstock. Our host Colin Cowie gives you a tip to make your wedding amazing. Plus, Destination Romance gives us etiquette tips for a destination wedding. And learn about a new service that makes changing your name after the wedding a breeze.

Learn how to look sexy, yet elegant, for your wedding day. And lose your inhibitions with a boudoir photography session to give your groom a sexy, unforgettable wedding gift. We’ll show you how to choose the right flowers for your wedding. And check out a gorgeous, fresh spring bridal look. Our host Colin Cowie gives you a tip to make your wedding amazing. And we’ve got the scoop on a big-screen superhero’s real-life wedding from celebrity photographer Robert Evans. Plus, we’ll show you a fun and functional wedding favor

Discover how to pinpoint your bridal style so your wedding truly reflects you and your groom. And, find the gown style that flatters your figure. Celebrity florist Mark Held shows us the zany, whimsical flowers he designed for the wedding of rockers Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz. And check out creative options for ceremony music. We'll tell you the top pictures you must have from your wedding. Our host Colin Cowie gives you a tip to make your wedding amazing. And you'll see some great wedding items from Jean M.