Episodes

4 days ago
4 days ago
Welcome to Episode 70 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sit’s down with Ben Journee an Auckland Based Wedding Videographer, and the host of the Make Better Wedding Films Podcast
In this episode Toga and Ben discuss the importance of video in capturing wedding memories, and the evolving expectations of couples. They discuss the hybrid approach of combining video and photography, the challenges of shooting solo, and the strategies for effectively communicating value to clients.
Ben shares insights on work-life balance, the realities of traveling for work, and offers tips for couples on choosing the right videographer. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the nuances of wedding videography, emphasizing the importance of capturing meaningful moments and words during weddings.
They discuss the evolving landscape of videography, the role of content creation, and the impact of instant content delivery on couples' experiences. The conversation also touches on the significance of podcasting as a tool for connection and education within the industry, as well as innovations in editing and the value of in-person workshops for skill development.
Takeaways
Couples often value video more after the wedding than before.
The 'no regrets' approach allows couples to upgrade their packages post-wedding.
Ben uses AI tools to streamline the process of selecting stills from videos.
He aims to capture both fun and sentimental moments in his films.
Shooting solo has its benefits, including reduced stress and better control.
Transparency with clients about services leads to higher satisfaction.
The wedding videography market in New Zealand is competitive and niche.
Ben's 'loss leader' strategy helps attract clients while increasing overall value. Capturing wedding vows and speeches is crucial for lasting memories.
Couples often lack understanding of the differences in videography services.
Content creation can enhance the value of videography packages.
Instant content delivery allows couples to relive memories quickly.
Podcasting serves as a valuable platform for industry connection and education.
The education market for videography is saturated, requiring unique offerings.
Sharing personal experiences in education can alleviate imposter syndrome.
In-person workshops provide hands-on learning opportunities.
Engagement and collaboration among peers enhance the learning experience.
Innovations in editing technology can streamline the production process.
Your support enables us to bring more enriching conversations and insights to both engaged couples and wedding professionals.
Stay connected with us on Instagram at @wed.copodcast and watch all your favorite wedding professionals on our YouTube channel @wed.copodcast.
Catch our episodes on major podcast platforms like Apple, Spotify, and IheartRadio, all under WedCo Podcast.
Join us for our next episode on the Wed.Co Podcast, where we continue to explore the
mesmerizing and ever-changing landscape of weddings.
Toga xxx

Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
Welcome to Episode 69 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sit’s down with Jake from Married By Jake for a chat about his journey as a Wedding Celebrant who regularly books 170 weddings per year. Thanks again to Maroon Hill Estate for allowing us to film this at their stunning venue.
In this episode of the Wedco podcast, host Toga speaks with Jake, a celebrated wedding celebrant, about his journey in the wedding industry. They discuss the importance of building trust with clients, managing a busy schedule, and the significance of self-care.
Jake shares insights on how he handles client relationships, the sources of his inquiries, and the challenges of booking weddings. The conversation highlights the emotional rewards of being part of couples' special days and the need for wedding vendors to support each other in a competitive industry.
In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of wedding planning, emphasizing the importance of timely vendor bookings, understanding pricing strategies, and creating a comfortable atmosphere for couples and guests. They share insights on learning from industry peers, the art of communication, and the balance between travel and work in the wedding industry.
The discussion highlights the emotional aspects of weddings and the significance of making couples feel at ease on their special day.
Takeaways
Jake's journey from nightclub owner to wedding celebrant is unique and inspiring.
Building trust with clients is essential for a successful wedding business.
Self-care practices, like going to the gym, help manage the stresses of a busy schedule.
Efficient client management systems are crucial for handling multiple weddings.
Referrals and reviews are the lifeblood of a wedding celebrant's business.
The emotional rewards of being part of weddings are profound and fulfilling.
It's important to remember the personal connections made with clients and their families.
Managing expectations and communication with clients is key to a smooth wedding process.
Networking and building relationships with other vendors can lead to more referrals.
Taking time off and setting boundaries is important for long-term sustainability in the wedding industry. Couples should start planning as soon as they feel comfortable.
Booking vendors early increases options and reduces stress.
Peak wedding dates require strategic planning for bookings.
Pricing should reflect demand and availability in the wedding industry.
Experience is invaluable for new celebrants and vendors.
Learning from peers can enhance service delivery.
Creating a comfortable atmosphere is crucial for wedding success.
Effective communication can significantly impact guest experience.
Traveling for weddings can be a balancing act for vendors.
Building rapport quickly with couples is a vital skill.
Your support enables us to bring more enriching conversations and insights to both engaged couples and wedding professionals.
Stay connected with us on Instagram at @wed.copodcast and watch all your favorite wedding professionals on our YouTube channel @wed.copodcast.
Catch our episodes on major podcast platforms like Apple, Spotify, and IheartRadio, all under WedCo Podcast.
Join us for our next episode on the Wed.Co Podcast, where we continue to explore the
mesmerizing and ever-changing landscape of weddings.
Toga xxx

Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
Welcome to Episode 68 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sit’s down with Kat from Garden Graffiti for a chat about the intricacies of floral arrangements, the importance of understanding client preferences, and the dynamics of building a reliable team in the wedding industry. This episode was filmed at Maroon Hill Estate
In this episode Kat shares her journey from studying fine arts to becoming a successful wedding florist. The conversation covers her experiences in London, and New York and the challenges of transitioning back to Australia.
Kat discusses the importance of finding a unique style, the process of starting a business, and the significance of work-life balance. Kat also elaborates on the proposal process, client engagement, and the dynamics of working with stylists. Additionally, she touches on wedding budgets, pricing, and the differences in flower markets across Brisbane, London, and New York.
In this conversation, Toga and Kat delve into the intricacies of floral arrangements, the importance of understanding client preferences, and the dynamics of building a reliable team in the wedding industry. They discuss the significance of nurturing vendor relationships, budgeting for floral needs, and the slow yet steady growth of a business.
The conversation also touches on the challenges of destination weddings and offers practical tips for couples planning their weddings, emphasizing the need for clear communication and prioritization.
Takeaways
The journey into floristry often starts with a passion for creativity.
Experiences abroad can significantly shape a florist's style and approach.
Finding a unique style is crucial for standing out in the wedding industry.
Starting a business can be challenging but rewarding with the right support.
Work-life balance is essential for sustaining creativity and passion.
Client engagement is key to successful proposals and bookings.
Understanding wedding budgets helps in providing realistic proposals.
Collaboration with stylists can enhance creativity and execution.
Flower markets vary greatly between regions, affecting available styles.
Australian florists are known for their creativity due to limited product availability.
Creative arrangements can elevate the beauty of weddings.
Diversity in wedding styles keeps the work exciting
Building a reliable team is crucial for business success.
Delegating responsibilities fosters team growth and confidence.
Training team members is essential for smooth operations.
Destination weddings can be logistically challenging.
Budgeting and prioritizing floral needs is key for couples.
Nurturing vendor relationships takes time and effort.
Slow and steady growth can lead to sustainable success.
Clear communication with clients enhances trust and satisfaction.
Your support enables us to bring more enriching conversations and insights to both engaged couples and wedding professionals.
Stay connected with us on Instagram at @wed.copodcast and watch all your favorite wedding professionals on our YouTube channel @wed.copodcast.
Catch our episodes on major podcast platforms like Apple, Spotify, and IheartRadio, all under WedCo Podcast.
Join us for our next episode on the Wed.Co Podcast, where we continue to explore the mesmerizing and ever-changing landscape of weddings.
Toga xxx

Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Welcome to Episode 67 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sit’s down with Alina, managing director of Coolibah Downs Private Estate for a chat about renovations, design and continually evolving as a wedding venue.
In this episode of the Wedco podcast, Alina discusses the history, transformations, and future plans of Coolibah Downs, a wedding venue that has been hosting weddings for over 20 years. The conversation covers the venue's renovations, design philosophy, guest experience, accommodation options, vendor collaboration, and the importance of community engagement.
Alina emphasizes the significance of creating an stress-free and transparent booking process for couples planning their weddings.
Takeaways
Coolabah Downs has been a wedding venue for over 20 years.
The venue underwent significant renovations to enhance guest experience.
Feedback from past couples was crucial in planning renovations.
Accessibility and functionality were key considerations in the design.
The venue offers multiple ceremony spaces, including gardens and a chapel.
Accommodation options include a bridal suite and a large villa for guests.
Vendor collaboration has increased, enhancing the venue's offerings.
The team at Coolibah Downs focuses on maintaining a consistent guest experience.
The venue is conveniently located on the Gold Coast, making it accessible for guests.
Future plans include exciting developments and community engagement events.
Your support enables us to bring more enriching conversations and insights to both engaged couples and wedding professionals.
Stay connected with us on Instagram at @wed.copodcast and watch all your favorite wedding professionals on our YouTube channel @wed.copodcast.
Catch our episodes on major podcast platforms like Apple, Spotify, and IheartRadio, all under WedCo Podcast.
Join us for our next episode on the Wed.Co Podcast, where we continue to explore the mesmerizing and ever-changing landscape of weddings.
Toga xxx

Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
Welcome to Episode 66 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sit’s down with Cody from The Vintage Bar Co for a chat about their beautiful mobile bars. This one was filmed at Coolibah Downs Private Estate
In this episode of the Wedco podcast, Toga interviews Cody from Vintage Barco, a mobile bar service that has gained popularity in the wedding industry. Cody shares the story of how The Vintage Bar Co was born during the COVID-19 pandemic, transitioning from a coffee van to a cocktail bar. The conversation explores the evolution of their business, the importance of bars in modern weddings, and the strategies they employed to grow and establish relationships with venues.
Cody emphasizes the significance of creating a unique experience for couples and the role of marketing and networking in their success. In this conversation, the Cody discusses the intricacies of running a mobile bar service for weddings, focusing on the importance of choosing the right bar, crafting premium cocktails, and providing exceptional service.
He emphasize the need for a personable staff who can engage with guests and create memorable experiences. The discussion also touches on the evolving trends in wedding sizes and drink options, as well as the future growth and expansion plans for Vintage Bar Co.
Takeaways
Cody and Alex built various bar styles to fit different wedding themes.
Bars have become a focal point in modern weddings.
Word of mouth and social media are key marketing strategies.
Building relationships with venues is crucial for success.
Investing in PR packs helped them get noticed by venues.
Couples often want the bar to be a feature of their wedding.
Cocktail menus are tailored to fit the couple's preferences.
Booking should be done at least 12 months in advance. Couples can choose their preferred bar when booking.
Different bar styles cater to various wedding themes.
Premium cocktails are prioritized over tap cocktails.
A minimum of two staff members is provided for events.
Staff focus on ensuring the bride and groom are well taken care of.
Smaller, intimate weddings are becoming more popular.
Staff training emphasizes customer service and engagement.
The business is expanding through franchising.
It's important for couples to focus on their preferences, not others'.
Ask questions and explore options when choosing vendors.
Your support enables us to bring more enriching conversations and insights to both engaged couples and wedding professionals.
Stay connected with us on Instagram at @wed.copodcast and watch all your favorite wedding professionals on our YouTube channel @wed.copodcast.
Catch our episodes on major podcast platforms like Apple, Spotify, and IheartRadio, all under WedCo Podcast.
Join us for our next episode on the Wed.Co Podcast, where we continue to explore the mesmerizing and ever-changing landscape of weddings.
Toga xxx

Friday Mar 14, 2025
Friday Mar 14, 2025
Welcome to Episode 66 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sit’s down with Cody from The Vintage Bar Co for a chat about their beautiful mobile bars. This one was filmed at Coolibah Downs Private Estate
In this episode of the Wedco podcast, Toga interviews Cody from Vintage Barco, a mobile bar service that has gained popularity in the wedding industry. Cody shares the story of how The Vintage Bar Co was born during the COVID-19 pandemic, transitioning from a coffee van to a cocktail bar. The conversation explores the evolution of their business, the importance of bars in modern weddings, and the strategies they employed to grow and establish relationships with venues.
Cody emphasizes the significance of creating a unique experience for couples and the role of marketing and networking in their success. In this conversation, the Cody discusses the intricacies of running a mobile bar service for weddings, focusing on the importance of choosing the right bar, crafting premium cocktails, and providing exceptional service.
He emphasize the need for a personable staff who can engage with guests and create memorable experiences. The discussion also touches on the evolving trends in wedding sizes and drink options, as well as the future growth and expansion plans for Vintage Bar Co.
Takeaways
Cody and Alex built various bar styles to fit different wedding themes.
Bars have become a focal point in modern weddings.
Word of mouth and social media are key marketing strategies.
Building relationships with venues is crucial for success.
Investing in PR packs helped them get noticed by venues.
Couples often want the bar to be a feature of their wedding.
Cocktail menus are tailored to fit the couple's preferences.
Booking should be done at least 12 months in advance. Couples can choose their preferred bar when booking.
Different bar styles cater to various wedding themes.
Premium cocktails are prioritized over tap cocktails.
A minimum of two staff members is provided for events.
Staff focus on ensuring the bride and groom are well taken care of.
Smaller, intimate weddings are becoming more popular.
Staff training emphasizes customer service and engagement.
The business is expanding through franchising.
It's important for couples to focus on their preferences, not others'.
Ask questions and explore options when choosing vendors.
Your support enables us to bring more enriching conversations and insights to both engaged couples and wedding professionals.
Stay connected with us on Instagram at @wed.copodcast and watch all your favorite wedding professionals on our YouTube channel @wed.copodcast.
Catch our episodes on major podcast platforms like Apple, Spotify, and IheartRadio, all under WedCo Podcast.
Join us for our next episode on the Wed.Co Podcast, where we continue to explore the mesmerizing and ever-changing landscape of weddings.
Toga xxx

Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Welcome to Episode 65 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sit’s down with Davina from Fontana Floral for a chat about branding and team building as a Florist. filmed at the stunning Coolibah Downs Private Estate
Summary
In this episode of the Wedco podcast, Toga interviews Davina from Fontana Floral, who shares her journey into the world of wedding floristry. Davina discusses her passion for flowers, the evolution of her brand from Akira Collective to Fontana, and the importance of managing client expectations and budgets in the wedding industry.
She also emphasizes the significance of branding and team dynamics in her business, as well as the challenges of time management on wedding days. The conversation provides valuable insights for brides, grooms, and wedding vendors alike.
In this conversation, the Toga and Davina delve into the intricacies of floral design within the wedding industry, discussing the stress and complexity involved in creating beautiful arrangements while managing client expectations. They explore the importance of collaboration with stylists, building a reliable freelance team, and the challenges faced by both florists and couples in the planning process.
Davina also share valuable advice for aspiring florists and couples seeking the right florist for their special day, emphasizing the significance of creativity, communication, and trust in the industry.
Takeaways
Managing client expectations is crucial in wedding floristry.
Budget constraints can limit creativity in floral design.
Investing in branding is essential for business growth.
Team dynamics play a vital role in executing wedding floristry.
Time management is key on wedding days to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Freelancers are invaluable in the floral industry for their expertise.
The creative process in floristry is both labor-intensive and rewarding.
Reflecting on past work helps florists appreciate their growth. It's a stressful job that requires passion and dedication.
Every vendor plays a crucial role in the event's success.
Communication with clients and vendors is key to managing expectations.
Creativity often comes from the actual design process, not just planning.
Building strong relationships with suppliers enhances creative opportunities.
Freelancers need to understand the expectations and standards of the brand they represent.
Collaboration with stylists can streamline the planning process and reduce stress.
Experience and trust are vital in building a reliable freelance team.
Aspiring florists should practice and connect with others in the industry.
Couples should choose florists whose work resonates with their vision.
Your support enables us to bring more enriching conversations and insights to both engaged couples and wedding professionals.
Stay connected with us on Instagram at @wed.copodcast and watch all your favorite wedding professionals on our YouTube channel @wed.copodcast.
Catch our episodes on major podcast platforms like Apple, Spotify, and IheartRadio, all under WedCo Podcast.
Join us for our next episode on the Wed.Co Podcast, where we continue to explore the
mesmerizing and ever-changing landscape of weddings.
Toga xxx

Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Welcome to Episode 64 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sit’s down with Roxy from Timmy and Tammy Events for a chat about the importance of Childcare at weddings and different options for couples.
Roxy shares her journey from the UK to Australia and how her background in childcare led her to create a unique service that caters to families attending weddings. They discuss the challenges of including children in wedding celebrations, the planning process for childcare services, and the benefits of creating engaging spaces for kids. Roxy also offers advice for couples on whether to include children in their wedding and how to ensure a memorable experience for all guests.
Takeaways
Roxy's journey into wedding childcare began with her own wedding experience.
Childcare at weddings can alleviate stress for parents and enhance the overall experience.
The importance of building rapport with children for a successful childcare service.
Childcare services can be tailored to the specific needs of each wedding.
Engaging spaces for children can make weddings more enjoyable for families.
Planning for childcare should start well in advance of the wedding day.
Childcare services can be offered both on-site and off-site depending on the venue.
Qualified childcare providers ensure safety and proper care for children at events.
Communication with the couple is key to understanding their vision for childcare.
Creating a magical experience for children at weddings can leave lasting memories.
Your support enables us to bring more enriching conversations and insights to both engaged couples and wedding professionals.
Stay connected with us on Instagram at @wed.copodcast and watch all your favorite wedding professionals on our YouTube channel @wed.copodcast.
Catch our episodes on major podcast platforms like Apple, Spotify, and IheartRadio, all under WedCo Podcast.
Join us for our next episode on the Wed.Co Podcast, where we continue to explore the mesmerizing and ever-changing landscape of weddings.
Toga xxx

Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Welcome to Episode 63 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sit’s down with the More Life Films team for a chat about running a high quality Video studio who only take a select number of films per year. This one was filmed at Ravella in Newcastle and the opening film was filmed and put together by More Life Films.
In this episode of the Wedco podcast, we discuss the journey of More Life Films, a wedding filmmaking company, exploring their team dynamics, the importance of having multiple shooters at weddings, and the contrasting approaches to editing.
We also delve into the competitive landscape of the wedding industry, the evolving structure of weddings, and defining moments that contributed to their business growth. In this conversation, we discuss their experiences and insights in the wedding videography industry.
They emphasize the importance of creating memorable experiences for couples, the art of collaboration and creativity, and the significance of capturing unique wedding stories. The discussion also covers the power of editing in wedding films, tips for couples choosing the right videographer, and the growing relationships with wedding planners. They reflect on their future directions and the balance between travel and client expectations in their work.
Takeaways
Team dynamics play a crucial role in successful filmmaking.
Having two shooters allows for comprehensive coverage of events.
Editing styles can vary greatly between filmmakers.
Weddings are becoming less structured and more free-flowing.
Personal connections with couples enhance the filming experience. Couples value the presence and effort of their videographers.
It's essential to feel part of the wedding rather than just the help.
Creativity thrives on collaboration and brainstorming.
Every wedding is a unique story waiting to be told.
Editing is where the magic of a wedding film happens.
Full-length films capture the essence of the day better than previews.
Building relationships with planners can lead to more bookings.
Being easy to work with is crucial in the wedding industry.
Limiting the number of weddings allows for better quality work.
Traveling for weddings can enhance the experience for both videographers and couples.
Your support enables us to bring more enriching conversations and insights to both engaged couples and wedding professionals.
Stay connected with us on Instagram at @wed.copodcast and watch all your favorite wedding professionals on our YouTube channel @wed.copodcast.
Catch our episodes on major podcast platforms like Apple, Spotify, and IheartRadio, all under WedCo Podcast.
Join us for our next episode on the Wed.Co Podcast, where we continue to explore the
mesmerizing and ever-changing landscape of weddings.
Toga xxx

Friday Feb 21, 2025
Friday Feb 21, 2025
Full Episode - https://youtu.be/S7eiEZ9ZU0M
Welcome to Episode 60 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sits down with Sam, one of the owners of Ravella in Newcastle for a chat about this stunning new venue.
Sam discusses the journey of transforming Ravella from a previous venue into a sought-after wedding space, focusing on design, vendor collaboration, and creating a memorable experience for couples and their guests. The conversation also covers innovative beverage packages, catering partnerships, and the passion behind making every wedding special.
Takeaways
Collaboration among wedding professionals is key to creating a successful venue.
Design choices were made with input from various vendors to enhance functionality.
Creating a vendor-friendly space is essential for a positive experience.
The wedding experience at Ravella includes unique spaces for ceremonies and receptions.
Innovative beverage packages extend beyond traditional offerings.
Catering is a crucial aspect, with a focus on quality and local partnerships.
Transparency in pricing is important for building trust with couples.
The venue aims to create lasting memories for couples and their guests.
Community support has played a vital role in Ravella's success.
The intro Video for Ravella was brought filmed and created by the very talented humans over at More Life Films
If you want to hear more from Sam and Ravella you can get more info at https://www.ravellanewcastle.com.au/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ravellanewcastle/
Your support enables us to bring more enriching conversations and insights to both engaged couples and wedding professionals.
Stay connected with us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/wed.copodcast and watch all your favorite wedding professionals on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@Wed.CoPodcast
Catch our episodes on major podcast platforms like Apple, Spotify, and IheartRadio, all under WedCo Podcast.
Join us for our next episode on the Wed.Co Podcast, where we continue to explore the mesmerizing and ever-changing landscape of weddings.
Toga xxx