Shows
Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsSocial Media Savior: How to Post with Purpose in the Wedding IndustryFeeling overwhelmed by social media? You're not alone. Wedding professionals often struggle to maintain a consistent online presence that actually converts to bookings. Serena Waller, founder of the Dande Agency, joined, CWP Society's COO, Krisy Thomas, for this episode of the Wedding Planner Pro Files podcast to break down the ever-shifting landscape of social media marketing for wedding pros.Serena breaks down the surprising truth about Instagram's algorithm changes, hashtags are out, keywords are in. Google is now crawling Instagram content, fundamentally changing how your posts get discovered. She shares practical strategies for writing captions that align...2025-04-2231 min
Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsSensory-Friendly Celebrations: Reimagining Wedding Planning for All MindsWeddings should be joyful celebrations for everyone present, but for neurodivergent individuals—those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory sensitivities—the typical wedding environment can quickly become overwhelming. Bright lights flash, music thumps, schedules run tight, and social expectations mount. How can wedding planners create truly inclusive experiences?Master Certified Wedding Planner & Certified Educator, Brianne Ackerland, joins CWP Society Vice President, Krisy Thomas, as she brings both professional expertise and personal insight to this vital conversation. With approximately 15-20% of the global population processing information atypically and diagnoses rising among younger generations, wedding professionals must adapt their appro...2025-04-1529 min
Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsTransforming Your Wedding Business: The Personal Branding and Marketing RevolutionKrisy Thomas, Vice President of the CWP Society, is joined by special guest Carissa Kruse, marketing guru and founder of Win More Weddings Content Club, for an eye-opening conversation on what truly works in wedding industry marketing today. With a background in building a successful multi-state wedding business alongside her marketing agency, Carissa shares why many wedding pros are unknowingly “automating themselves out of business.” In a world where modern couples book based on connection and vibes, she reveals how to infuse personality into your marketing, ensuring your brand stands out in an oversaturated industry.The modern wedd...2025-04-0832 min
Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsWedding Associate Certification Now Available through CWP Society!The CWP Society has launched an innovative Wedding Associate Certification that's transforming how wedding planning teams operate and deliver consistently exceptional service. This new credential ensures every team member—not just lead planners—meets the highest professional standards, creating seamless experiences from initial consultation through the wedding day.CWP Society has been the gold standard for wedding professional certification worldwide since 2007The new Wedding Associate Certification specifically targets team members within established planning companiesCertification benefits business owners by creating more proficient teams and streamlining training processesAssociates gain confidence and skills to handle higher-level responsibilities like...2025-04-0412 min
Coffee With PhilCWP.109. | Transition Series | Session Eight - Pick up your crossAre you feeling like you are shifting in or out of a season? Join Phil as he discusses what picking up your cross and following Jesus looks like in a season of transition. If you're the kind of person that is unwilling to sacrifice your desires you definitely won't want to be challenged by Phil in this podcast. But, if you're ready to ask what heaven is doing and what Jesus is saying, grab yourself some time and enjoy coffee with Phil. BONUS CONTENT Coffee Grinder: Kaffelogic Bible Reference: Matthew 16 Bible Reference: Matthe...2025-04-0145 min
Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsBeyond Experience: How Education Transforms Wedding Planning BusinessesIn this episode, Vice President of the CWP Society and Co-Host, Krisy Thomas sits down with Crystal Dailey, owner of Empower Weddings, and a Master Certified Wedding Planner whose journey proves the transformative power of education in building a thriving wedding business.Crystal's journey from event planner to Master Certified Wedding Planner reveals the transformative power of education in building a thriving wedding business. Her candid confession about initially trying to learn by simply shadowing other planners resonates with many who've walked a similar path – discovering that observation alone can't provide the comprehensive foundation needed fo...2025-04-0133 min
Cooking with positivityCWP Presents: Game Night (The Game Show) We're back at it again with another episode of CWP Presents: Game Night (The Game Show), CWP Award winners & nominees edition. Our reigning champ Eric G, defends his championship against or CWP Positively business award winner Tamesha Thompson. You don't want to miss this.2025-03-3145 min
Cooking with positivityCWP Presents: Game Night (The Game Show)We're back at it again with another episode of CWP Presents: Game Night (The Game Show), CWP Award winners & nominees edition. Our reigning champ Eric G, defends his championship against or CWP Positively business award winner Tamesha Thompson. You don't want to miss this.2025-03-3145 min
Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsSetting Your Wedding Day Assistants Up for SuccessKrisy Thomas, Co-Host and Vice President of the CWP Society, is joined by special guest Hailey Beard to tackle a game-changing topic for wedding planners: transforming assistants into assets, not liabilities.Ever wonder why some weddings flow perfectly while others face constant hiccups? The secret often lies not with the lead planner, but with how well they've prepared their assistant team.When wedding day assistants aren't properly equipped, they become a liability rather than an asset. In this illuminating episode, Hailey Beard, Certified Wedding Planner, Certified Educator and Owner of Hailey Beard Events, shares her...2025-03-2429 minCoffee With PhilCWP. 107. | Transition Series | Session Six – Learn to Wait WellAre you in a season of waiting? Join Phil as he discusses the art of waiting well. If you're the kind of person that refuses to wait you definitely won't want to be challenged by Phil in this podcast. But, if you're ready to learn how to wait well grab yourself some time and enjoy coffee with Phil. BONUS CONTENT Bible Reference: Exodus Bible Reference: Genesis 21:1-21 Bible Reference: Genesis 16 Bible Reference: 1 Samuel 15 Bible Reference: Judges 16 Bible Reference: 1 Samuel 16 Bible Reference: 1 Samuel 17 Bible Reference: 1 Samuel 24: 16-22 Bible Reference: 1 Samuel 26: 9 Bible Reference: 1 Samuel 30 Podcast: CWP...2025-03-1844 min
Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsBeyond the Badge: How CWP Society Elevates Wedding PlannersWhat happens when wedding planners invest in their education? Co-host Krisy Thomas, Vice President of the CWP Society, interviews three award winning, Master Certified Wedding Planners and Industry Advancement Directors, who reveal the transformative power of professional certification in this candid conversation that goes far beyond basic credentials.For Brianne Ackerland, certification turned a hobby into a thriving business after she sought education to balance motherhood with entrepreneurship. Now ten plus years into her journey, she continues finding value in ongoing education: "I'm still learning new things, and that's one of the huge things I value about...2025-03-1038 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsThe Wedding Ministry Certification: A New Era of Church and Planner PartnershipsEmma Cockerham, Master Certified Wedding Planner, Certified Educator and Owner of Infinity Events, joins Krisy Thomas, VP of the CWP Society, on this episode to share her journey from challenging church-hosted weddings to crafting the transformative Wedding Ministry Certification Course. By tackling the common issues faced when planning religious weddings, Emma reveals how her course, initially aimed at the Memphis church community, has expanded to inspire a broader change in the wedding planning industry. Encouraged by CWP Society's Founder & CEO, Laurie Hartwell, Emma's mission is to revamp wedding planning in religious settings, emphasizing joy, positivity, and inclusivity....2025-02-2526 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsEducating Your Couples: Essential Strategies for Planning SuccessUnlock the Secrets to Educating Your Couples for a Seamless Planning ExperienceAs a wedding planner, one of your most important roles is educating your couples—helping them navigate the planning process with confidence and clarity. In this episode of Wedding Planner Pro Files, Krisy Thomas, Vice President of the CWP Society, is joined by Riley Snider, Certified Wedding Planner & Certified Educator, to discuss essential strategies for guiding couples through the complexities of wedding planning.From managing expectations shaped by Pinterest and TikTok to transforming scattered inspiration into a cohesive plan, Riley shares her expert in...2025-02-1827 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsUnlocking Success in Wedding Planning: Building Community and Achieving GoalsDiscover how to elevate your wedding planning career with the invaluable insights of Aisha Garnett, a Master Certified Wedding Planner and Certified Educator, in this episode of the Wedding Planner Profiles podcast. Unlock the secrets of connecting with seasoned professionals through the CWP Society and learn the art of finding your "wedding planner bestie" for mutual support and accountability. Aisha shares her personal journey and outlines the benefits of being part of a supportive network, especially when navigating the sometimes intimidating wider wedding industry.Engage with the power of educational initiatives and workshops designed to propel your...2024-11-2534 minCoffee With PhilCWP. 97. Don't Box Me InEPISODE DESCRIPTION Are you ready to set yourself challenges? Join Phil as he discusses how you can stop relying on others for solutions and start expanding your learning. If you're the kind of person that prefers to rely on others to solve problems you definitely won't want to be challenged by Phil in this podcast. But, if you're ready to challenge and grow yourself grab some time and enjoy coffee with Phil. BONUS CONTENT Bible Reference: John 6 Bible Reference: 1 Corinthians 14:1-5 Bible Reference: Genesis 12:1-3 Bible Reference: Galatians 3 Bible Reference: Deuterono...2024-11-1929 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsLady Whistlewed: Demystifying the Roles of Wedding Planners and Venue CoordinatorsPrepare to unravel the mystery behind the distinct roles of wedding planners and venue coordinators with the vibrant prose of Lady Whistlewed, as we promise to untangle these pivotal positions in the world of weddings. Tune in to the enchanting Wedding Planner Profiles podcast, presented by the CWP Society, where our latest episode promises to enlighten you with tales of how these professionals harmoniously collaborate to create unforgettable matrimonial celebrations. From orchestrating grand symphonies of logistics to mastering the intimate details of a venue, discover how certified wedding planners and venue coordinators bring their unique expertise to the table.2024-10-0804 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsDear Gentle Reader: A Wedding Planner's Passport to PrestigeEver wondered what sets the top wedding planners apart? Join us as Lady Whistlewed reveals the secret ingredient to their success: certification from the prestigious CWP Society. Discover how this rigorous program transforms aspiring coordinators into industry leaders, equipped with unparalleled skills in design, event management, and client relations. Through Lady Whistlewed's captivating storytelling, learn about Miss Prudence Heatherington's cousin, who skyrocketed to fame with her CWP Society certification, proving that proper accreditation can truly make dreams come true.Get a glimpse of the manifold benefits of joining the CWP Society, from the high-caliber education to the...2024-10-0304 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsEnhancing Collaboration Between Wedding Planners and Church CoordinatorsWhy do so many wedding planners and church coordinators clash during the happiest day of a couple's life?" This episode of the Wedding Planner Pro Files Podcast is an eye-opener as we unravel the frequent misunderstandings and miscommunications that often arise between wedding planners and church staff. Emma Cockerham, with her experience in wedding planning and as a certified educator, shares both heartwarming and frustrating real-life stories, including the emotional turmoil caused when church staff forget crucial details like the bride's name. Emma's insights emphasize the dire need for clear communication and mutual respect to create a joyful and...2024-10-0127 minCoffee With PhilCWP. 90. Strong Trees Stand TallHave you been in a difficult season? Join Phil as he discusses the stripping away that happens during a difficult season. If you're the kind of person that avoids searching out difficult seasons for the promises God has given you definitely won't want to be challenged by Phil in this podcast. But, if you're ready to look at the promises instead of the problems grab yourself some time and enjoy coffee with Phil. BONUS CONTENT Bible Reference: Jeremiah 1 Bible Reference: Exodus 33 Bible Reference: Numbers 11-12 Podcast: CWP. 89. Reset Podcast: CWP. 54. What Are You Stan...2024-10-0128 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsTransforming Wedding Stress into Wedding Success: How To Educate Your CouplesCan setting clear boundaries and acting with confidence really reduce wedding planning stress? Discover the insights of Riley Gersch, owner of Elegant Affairs by Design and a Master Certified Wedding Planner, as she unpacks the secrets to building trust from the first consultation. Riley guides you through the essentials of client rapport, setting expectations, and providing a clear roadmap for the planning journey. This episode promises to reveal how involving clients from the outset can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, making them feel like an integral part of their own celebration.Join us as we explore...2024-09-2323 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsMisguided Vendors Who Discourage Couples From Hiring Wedding PlannersLady Whistlewed is at it again! In her latest column she discussed the folly of wedding professionals discouraging couples from hiring wedding planners. Uncover the surprising motivations and the significant repercussions of this trend with Laurie Hartwell, CEO of the CWP Society, and her co-host Krisy Thomas, Vice President of the CWP Society. Together, they unravel the reasons behind this behavior, such as overlapping services and vendors seeking extra revenue streams, and discuss the importance of professional integrity. You'll learn how certified and master certified wedding planners can elevate the entire wedding experience and why collaboration is key to...2024-09-1220 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsLady Whistlewed: Why Wedding Planners Are Essential for a Proper WeddingEver wonder what sets a certified wedding planner apart from the rest? Today, we promise to unravel that mystery with Laurie Hartwell, founder of the CWP Society, and Krisy Thomas, its Vice President. Together, they shed light on the crucial distinction between certified and uncertified wedding planners, emphasizing the unique expertise and ethical standards certified professionals bring to the table. Drawing from Lady Whistlewed's latest column, Laurie and Krisy reveal how proper training can safeguard a couple’s special day from potential pitfalls, making certification an indispensable investment for any wedding planner's career.But that's not all—we a...2024-08-2620 min
The LandscapeEpisode 200! (Behind the scenes at CWP)For the 200th episode of The Landscape, we brought the whole Center for Western Priorities team together to talk about what brought us each into conservation work, and recount some of the most memorable moments we’ve had as public lands advocates.
Hosts: Kate Groetzinger & Aaron Weiss
Feedback: podcast@westernpriorities.org
Music: Purple Planet
Featured image: The CWP team, left to right: Jen Rokala, Rachael Hamby, Lauren Bogard, Lilly Bock-Brownstein (with Wren), Sterling Homard, Aaron Weiss, Kate Groetzinger
The post Episode 200! (Behind the scenes at CWP) appeared first on Center...2024-08-2453 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsElevating Your Wedding Planning Career: Professional Growth & OpportunitiesReady to unlock the secrets of becoming a top-tier wedding planner? In this episode of the Wedding Planner Pro Files Podcast, we had the pleasure of chatting with Crystal Dailey, the esteemed owner of A Crystal Event in Atlanta, Georgia. Crystal walks us through her inspiring journey in the wedding planning industry, revealing her extensive certifications and the profound impact of continuous education. Discover how Crystal's affiliation with the Certified Wedding Planner Society has elevated her career and learn from Krisy Thomas' personal experiences with the certification process.Join us as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of...2024-08-1630 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsLady Whistlewed: How Planners Make the Impossible PossibleEver wondered why even the most budget-conscious couples might want to engage a wedding planner? Join us in this illuminating episode as Laurie Hartwell, CEO of the CWP Society, and Krisy Thomas, Vice President and owner of Southern Sparkle Weddings, reveal the secrets behind a flawless wedding day. Drawing inspiration from the latest Lady Whistlewed column, "A Matrimonial Missive: Why the Ton's Wisest Betrothed Engage a Wedding Planner," we explore the intricate web of challenges that professional planners expertly navigate. Laurie and Krisy share compelling anecdotes, including a cautionary tale of a bride who deeply regretted not hiring a...2024-08-0723 minCoffee With PhilCWP. 82. How To Handle Shifting Spiritual SeasonsAre you in a period of transition between seasons? Join Phil as he discusses how we can manage the changes that come with shifts in spiritual seasons. If you're the kind of person that would prefer to ignore the uncomfortable changes that are coming you won't want to be challenged by Phil in this podcast. But, if you're ready to embrace the changes and discover how you will participate in this season then grab yourself some time and enjoy coffee with Phil. BONUS CONTENT Bible Reference: 1 Corinthians 14 Bible Reference: Jonah Bible Reference: Romans...2024-08-0629 minCoffee With PhilCWP. 81. The Toughest ConversationAre you in a season of having to ask yourself or a loved one tough questions? Join Phil as he discusses being called, and being committed. If you're the kind of person that avoids asking the tough questions you definitely won't want to be challenged by Phil in this podcast. But, if you're ready to review your priorities, calling and commitment grab yourself some time and enjoy coffee with Phil. BONUS CONTENT Podcast: CWP. 78. How To Make Every Minute Matter Podcast: CWP. 79. Things I Learned In The ED Author/Speaker: Carey Nieuwhof Author...2024-07-3028 minCoffee With PhilCWP. 80. Leadership is lonelyAre you lonely in leadership? Join Phil as he discusses why leadership is lonely and steps you can take to acknowledge and manage this loneliness. If you're the kind of person that is happy to be lonely in leadership, you definitely won't want to be challenged by Phil in this podcast. But, if you're ready to learn how to manage loneliness grab yourself some time and enjoy coffee with Phil. BONUS CONTENT Podcast: CWP. 45. Don’t Wreck Your Shipwreck Podcast: CWP. 51. Connection Brings Life To Me Podcast: CWP. 36. Invest Into Life Giving Connecti...2024-07-2328 min
Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsFrom Shot Lists to Seamless Days: Wedding Planner and Photographer InsightsImagine ensuring that every single moment of a wedding is captured perfectly without any last-minute surprises. Laurie Hartwell, Krisy Thomas, and Aisha Garnett join us to unravel the common, but critical, challenge of when photography companies withhold the contact information of assigned photographers. Learn how early communication and transparency can prevent misunderstandings and create a personalized, seamless experience for the bride and groom. Hear firsthand stories of near mishaps and misunderstandings that were easily avoidable with a bit of early planning and coordination.We dive into the nuts and bolts of creating detailed shot lists and why...2024-07-0528 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsHarnessing Tech/AI for Wedding Ceremonies, Vows, and Toasts: Introducing PROVENANCEImagine a world where AI transforms wedding ceremonies into unforgettable, deeply personalized experiences. Today, we bring you an exclusive conversation with Steven Greitzer, CEO and founder, and Josh Fagel, head of business development, as they unveil Provenance, an AI-driven tool revolutionizing ceremony, vows, and toast writing. Steven shares his heartfelt journey of officiating weddings for friends, which sparked the creation of Provenance, addressing the need for legally compliant, meaningful scripts. Josh dives into how Provenance alleviates the stress of public speaking, ensuring a flawless ceremony for wedding planners and couples alike.Discover the magic behind integrating AI...2024-06-2036 min
Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsWedding Industry News: Can Technology Match Human Touch?In this episode, we will be discussing new Certifications and Membership through the CWP Society, as well as how couples are trying to use AI as wedding planners, and how it can all go terribly wrong.Tune in to hear Laurie Hartwell and Krisy Thomas from the CWP Society as they reveal the secrets behind the new Wedding Ministry Team Certification Program. This initiative is more than just a certification; it’s a comprehensive effort to foster better collaboration between wedding planners, church coordinators, pastors, sound technicians, and janitorial staff. Discover how customizable templates and thorough education ar...2024-06-0140 min
Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsWedding Industry News: The RSVP Dilemma; Venue Shutdown Shocks; and After PartiesEver encountered the puzzling silence after sending out wedding invitations? We all know the feeling, but our latest episode tackles the RSVP conundrum head-on with insights from wedding industry mavens, Laurie Hartwell and Krisy Thomas of the CWP Society. We dissect the bold strategy of a past bride's 'missed RSVP card' and debate its effectiveness in nudging those elusive responses from guests. Is it a necessary measure or a step too far? Let's navigate the tricky waters of wedding RSVP etiquette together and find out how to strike the perfect balance between courtesy and practicality.The conversation...2024-05-0132 min
The Hake ReportWhat's wrong with the CWP's? | Fri 3-29-24All calls today: What's wrong with the "CWP's"? Is racism bad? Property values decline with low-quality people! Woman goes off over Rabbi Shmuley! The Hake Report, Friday, March 29, 2024 AD TIME STAMPS * (0:00:00) Start * (0:01:41) Hake on MadeByJimbob Mixed Bag Panel 8 today! * (0:03:03) Hey, guys! The Big Stick tee * (0:05:31) JAIME, MN: A call about whites, JLP harping on blacks * (0:15:38) DAVID, FL: Whites sick of the "racism"; Pro-crime Dems * (0:21:37) DAVID: America over; Far from God; Racism per capita * (0:26:52) JOE, AZ: Property values * (0:37:02) JOE: whites do it too. S...2024-03-291h 59Coffee With PhilCWP. 64. A Warning To Be ReadyCWP. 64. A Warning To Be Ready EPISODE DESCRIPTION What season of your life do you currently find yourself in? Beginnings, endings, wherever you find yourself you need to be ready. Join Phil as he discusses four important aspects of life that can help you to be ready no matter what season you are living in. If you're the kind of person that is happy living unprepared you definitely won't want to be challenged by Phil in this podcast. But, if you're ready to start preparing, grab yourself some time and e...2024-03-1929 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsWedding Industry News: Crafting Unforgettable Nuptials and Navigating Venue LegalitiesStep into the world of weddings with us, as we unravel the key ingredients that make or break the most special day of a couple's life. Joining me is Laurie Hartwell, the woman behind the CWP Society, where we dissect the latest findings from The Knot and delve into how wedding planners can transform any nuptial into an affair to remember. Ensure every guest leaves with a lasting impression, potentially becoming a future advocate for your services. We'll also share a charming tale of a photographer who turned an ordinary situation into an extraordinary story, proving that sometimes, it's...2024-03-0124 minCoffee With PhilCWP. 61. Laughing In The Face Of GodIn Episode 61 of "Coffee with Phil," your host Phil Strong discusses the concept of laughing at God’s promises, how the journey of Abraham and Sarah can be reflected in our own lives, and how we can journey well with God, trusting that He will do what He says. BONUS CONTENT Previous Episode: CWP. 60This Episode: CWP.61Bible Reference: Genesis 17-18Bible Reference: 1 Samuel 3 Bible Reference: Mark 9:24Bible Reference: Numbers 11: 23Bible Reference: Jeremiah 32Bible Reference: Matthew 14:30-33Bible Reference: John...2024-02-2829 min
Wedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsBeyond The Trends: Pitfalls of Trends Preventing Pros from Curating Weddings That Reflect Our Couple's Love StoryAre wedding trends pressuring you into creating a celebration for your couples that feels more like a fad than a reflection of their love story? Fear not, for Krisy Thomas and Laurie Hartwell have joined forces to guide you through the maze of wedding industry "do's and don'ts," unleashing the secrets curating a day that's unmistakably designed to reflect your client. Tune in as we unravel the often-overlooked reality that the pursuit of trendiness can eclipse personal touches, leading to carbon-copy ceremonies devoid of individuality. We'll share how we champion the unique narratives of every couple, transforming their most...2024-02-2024 minWedding Planner Pro Files: Industry Expert InsightsThe Evolution of the Wedding Industry - An Interview with Laurie HartwellWedding planning isn't just about selecting the perfect centerpiece or the most photogenic venue—it's an art form honed over years of personal growth and industry evolution. Laurie Hartwell, founder & CEO of the CWP Society, brings this to life, sharing her thirty-year voyage through the ebbs and flows of the wedding industry. As she unfolds her story of building self-esteem and the crucial role of intuition in business, you'll find yourself nodding along, thinking of your own evolution—whether in career or character. It’s a conversation that digs into the fabric of success and the colorful challenges faced along...2024-01-0939 min