Wed.Co Podcast

Michael Kelly Films: "It just feels icky to me to do that"

Welcome to Episode 50 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sits down with co-host Sarah and Michael Kelly  for a chat about the evolving world of Wedding Videography. This episode was filmed at the absolutely gorgeous The Valley Estate on the Gold Coast.
In this episode of the Wedco Podcast, Steve Toga welcomes Michael from Michael Kelly Films for a heartfelt and insightful conversation about the art of wedding videography. Together, they unravel the journey of how wedding films have transformed over the years, from evolving trends to the game-changing influence of technology. 
Michael shares his personal path into the wedding industry, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the highs and challenges of capturing one of life’s most cherished moments. With a focus on creating timeless films that couples will treasure forever, Michael reflects on the delicate balance of meeting client expectations while staying true to his creative vision. 
Steve, Sarah and Michael also dive into the shifting dynamics of the wedding industry, touching on the power of word-of-mouth recommendations, the importance of vendor relationships, and how social media has reshaped the way creatives connect with their audience. They explore the post-COVID landscape, emphasizing the need for adaptability and the value of maintaining a personal touch in an increasingly competitive market.
This episode is brimming with inspiration for wedding vendors and creatives alike, offering a fresh perspective on storytelling, connection, and the enduring magic of wedding videography
If you want to hear more from Michael from Michael Kelly Films you can get more info at https://www.michaelkellyfilms.com.au/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/michaelkellyfilms/
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 
mesmerising and ever-changing landscape of weddings.  
Toga
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Wedding Wisdom02:06 Michael's Journey into Wedding Filmmaking06:12 The Evolution of Wedding Videography10:08 Navigating the Current Wedding Industry Landscape14:13 Adapting to Trends in Wedding Filmmaking18:09 The Future of Wedding Videography20:09 Navigating Client Expectations23:45 The Importance of Recommendations26:30 Building Connections in the Wedding Industry30:00 The Role of Social Media in Wedding Services36:44 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Hazel / Audley Dance Hall : "It's kind of a privilege really"

Welcome to Episode 49  of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sits down with Zoe and James of Hazel / Audley Dance Hall for a chat about their historic wedding venue, and the unique experiences it offers that makes them stand out in the evolving wedding market. Today's episode was filmed at Hazel, which is Audley Dance Halls sister venue. 
In this episode of the Wed.Co Podcast, Toga speaks with Zoe and James of Hazel / Audley dance Hall, a historic venue for weddings and events. They discuss the importance of creating memorable experiences for couples, the role of food and atmosphere in weddings, and the challenges couples face in planning their special day. The conversation also touches on the new Hazelhurst venue and the community's involvement in the wedding industry.
In this conversation, Zoe and James discuss the unique aspects of wedding venues, particularly focusing on the relaxed vibe of Audley and the creative backdrop of Hazel. They emphasize the importance of word-of-mouth referrals, the emotional impact of weddings, and the significance of preferred vendors in ensuring a smooth experience. The conversation also touches on the balance between tradition and personal preference in wedding planning, the energy of the venue, and the journey of compromise couples face during the planning process.
Takeaways
Audley Dance Hall has been a wedding venue for 11 years.
The venue's history adds character and energy to events.
Creating a journey for guests is essential in wedding planning.
Good food and atmosphere are key to memorable weddings.
The team at Audley plays a crucial role in event management.
Couples often feel overwhelmed by wedding planning.
Audley can accommodate up to 200 guests for sit-down dinners.
The new Hazelhurst venue will offer a unique experience.
Community involvement enhances the wedding experience.
Authenticity in the wedding industry is important.  The vibe of a wedding venue can greatly influence the experience.
Word of mouth is the most effective marketing for wedding venues.
Showcasing creativity through events can attract more couples.
Preferred vendors are essential for a successful wedding experience.
The emotional moments during weddings are what make them special.
Choosing a venue should involve feeling the energy of the space.
Balancing tradition and personal preferences is crucial in wedding planning.
Compromise is a key part of the wedding planning journey.
Different cultures have unique ways of celebrating love.
The commitment made during a wedding is foundational for the couple's future.
You can find out more about Hazel / Audley Dance Hall at ⁠https://audleydancehall.com.au/⁠  and on Instagram at ⁠https://www.instagram.com/audleydancehallandcafe/⁠ and ⁠https://www.instagram.com/hazel.gymea/⁠ 
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  xx

Hello May: "We call ourselves a non-wedding wedding magazine."

Welcome to Episode 48  of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sits down with Dani, the editor and co-owner of Hello May for a chat about their magazine's journey in the wedding industry, emphasizing what it takes to build and maintain a successful publication throughout the years. Today's episode was filmed at Hazel, which is Audley Dance Halls sister venue. 
In this episode of the Wed.Co Podcast, Toga interviews Dani, the co-owner and editor of Hello May, discussing the magazine's journey, its unique approach to wedding planning, and the importance of quality in both content and vendor partnerships. The conversation explores the evolution of print media in the wedding industry, current trends in weddings, and the collaborative nature of the Hello May team. Listeners gain insights into the daily life of a magazine editor and the significance of community engagement in building a successful publication.
In this conversation, Dani discusses the intricate process of producing a wedding magazine, the importance of community engagement through events, and offers valuable tips for couples looking to be featured. She addresses the challenges faced by the wedding industry, particularly in light of economic factors, and emphasizes the significance of advertising and maintaining a strong digital presence. also shares insights into the origins of Hello May and provides practical advice for engaged couples planning their dream wedding. 
Takeaways
Hello May was founded to champion creatives in the wedding industry.
The magazine focuses on quality content and aesthetics.
Print media remains important despite rising costs.
Vendor partnerships are selective and by invitation only.
Trends in weddings are evolving towards personalization.
The Hello May team values collaboration and community.
Daily tasks of a magazine editor include content creation and vendor communication.
Hello May aims to be approachable and relatable to its audience.
The magazine supports both readers and vendors equally.
The importance of unique and stylish weddings is emphasized.  
The magazine production involves careful planning and selection of content.
Community events are crucial for connecting with couples and vendors.
High-quality photography is essential for being featured in the magazine.
Couples should focus on their unique vision rather than trying to fit a mold.
Investing in advertising can significantly boost business in the wedding industry.
Digital presence, especially on social media, is vital for reaching new audiences.
Hello May has a strong brand recognition in the wedding industry.
Engaged couples should prioritize their wedding elements based on personal values.
Outsourcing tasks can alleviate stress during wedding planning.
Building relationships within the industry enhances collaboration and success.
 
You can find out more about Hello May Magazine at at https://hellomay.com.au/  and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hellomaymagazine/
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  xx

Engaged Creative : "You can't do everything; having help is a must."

Welcome to Episode 47 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sits down with Sophie from Engaged Creative for a chat about Digital Marketing in the Wedding realm and how to stand out in a saturated market. Today's episode was filmed at Hazel, which is Audley Dance Halls sister venue.
In this episode of the Wed.Co Podcast, Toga speaks with Sophie, co-founder of Engaged Creative, a wedding marketing agency. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities within the wedding industry, the importance of niche marketing, and the strategies Engaged Creative employs to help their clients succeed. Sophie shares insights on digital marketing, building a strong team, expanding into the US market, and maintaining client relationships.
The conversation also touches on current market challenges and the significance of staying relevant in the bridal industry. In this conversation, Sophie discusses the intricacies of marketing within the wedding industry, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning, collaboration, and understanding client needs. He shares insights on campaign creation, the significance of location in bridal shoots, and the evolving trends in wedding attire. Sophie also highlights the role of social media, particularly Instagram, in establishing a brand's presence and the necessity of a cohesive team to ensure consistent marketing efforts. The discussion wraps up with valuable advice for couples planning their weddings and the importance of enjoying the moment amidst the hustle of wedding preparations.
Takeaways
Engaged Creative specializes in wedding marketing, focusing on B2B clients.
Niche marketing in the wedding industry can lead to significant growth.
Digital marketing strategies are essential for wedding professionals.
Building a strong team is crucial for business success.
Expanding into international markets can happen organically.
Long-term client relationships are key to success in the wedding industry.
Consistency in marketing is vital during economic uncertainty.
Email marketing is still an effective tool for engagement.
Understanding client needs helps tailor marketing strategies.
Paid ads should be approached strategically for better results. Stripping back the budget during the silly season can be beneficial.
Having a supportive team is essential for longevity in the industry.
Successful marketing requires understanding the unique needs of clients.
Campaign creation involves a lot of coordination and creativity.
Location plays a crucial role in elevating bridal campaigns.
Bridal boutiques in the US have a strong following compared to Australia.
Consistency in marketing efforts builds trust with clients.
Instagram and a good website are vital for wedding brands.
Trends in wedding attire are constantly evolving and should be monitored.
Enjoying the moment during the wedding is crucial for couples.
You can find out more about Sophie and Engaged Creative at - https://www.engagedcreative.com.au/ and https://www.instagram.com/engaged_creative
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 xx

Couture Wedding Planning : Navigating the Luxury Wedding Market

Welcome to Episode 46 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga sits down with Fiona from Couture Wedding Planning for a chat about her journey to the world of wedding planning, highlighting her dynamic approach in building relationships with her clients. Today's episode was filmed at Hazel, which is Audley Dance Hall's sister venue.
In this episode of the Wed.Co Podcast, Toga interviews Fiona from Couture Wedding Planning, exploring her journey into wedding planning, the boutique approach she takes with clients, and the importance of building lasting relationships. Fi shares insights on navigating the wedding industry, working with both local and international clients, and the dynamics of wedding day coordination.
The conversation highlights the passion required for wedding planning and the significance of understanding client needs and vendor collaborations. In this conversation, Fiona shares insights on wedding planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding contracts, recognizing trends, and the impact of social media. She discusses her experiences with celebrity weddings, building credibility in the industry, and offers advice for aspiring wedding planners. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of wedding marketing and the significance of PR in gaining visibility.
Takeaways
Fiona's journey into wedding planning began with a love for the bridal industry.
Starting a wedding planning business during the GFC taught Fi that love prevails over economic challenges.
The boutique approach allows for a more personalized service with fewer clients.
Building relationships with clients often leads to planning future family events.
Passion for weddings is essential to thrive in the industry.
Fi emphasizes the importance of being present for clients on their wedding day.
Navigating local and international weddings requires adaptability and communication.
Targeting the high-end market aligns with Fiona's experience and expertise.
Vendor relationships are crucial for creating unique wedding experiences.
Client involvement varies, but Fiona aims to support them throughout the planning process. Always read your contracts to avoid tricky situations.
Couples should negotiate their contracts to avoid losing money.
Trends in weddings often trickle down from high-end events.
Behind-the-scenes planning is crucial for successful weddings.
Building credibility in the wedding industry takes time and effort.
Aspiring planners should gain experience by working at venues.
A year is a good timeline for wedding planning.
Social media plays a significant role in attracting clients.
Investing in your business is essential for long-term success.
PR and media features can greatly enhance a planner's reputation.
 
If you want to hear more from Fiona and Couture Wedding Planning,   you can get more info at  https://coutureweddingplanning.com.au/ and on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coutureweddingplanning/
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 xx

Gabbinbar: The Rich History and Rebranding of Gabbinbar

Welcome to Episode 45 of the Wed.Co Podcast.
Today, Toga + Joel sit down with Rachel and Chloe from Gabbinbar for a chat about their client experience and what it means to be a part of the Gabbinbar team.
The team discuss the venue's history, the exceptional client experience they provide, their culinary offerings, and innovative marketing strategies. The conversation highlights Gabbinbar's commitment to excellence and adaptability in the wedding industry, making it a sought-after destination for couples planning their special day.
Takeaways
Gabbinbar hosts about 220 weddings a year, showcasing its popularity.
The venue has a dedicated team of wedding planners and support staff.
Gabbinbar has developed its own CRM system to enhance client communication.
The venue's history dates back to 1863, originally serving as a summer residence for Queensland's governors.
A recent rebranding effort aimed to reflect Gabbinbar's evolution and uniqueness in the wedding market.
Exceptional client experience is a core value at Gabbinbar, emphasizing personalized service.
TikTok has emerged as a significant platform for engaging with potential clients.
Gabbinbar maintains a high staff-to-guest ratio to ensure excellent service during 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 + Joel xx
 

Emunah Events: Cohesive Design in Weddings

Welcome to Episode 44 of the Wed.Co Podcast.
Today, Toga + Joel sit down with Carissa from Emunah Events for a chat about a cohesive design and the different roles that she has within her business. This episode was filmed at the ever so stunning Gabbinbar in Toowoomba.
In this episode of the Wedco podcast, hosts Toga and Joel welcome Carissa, owner of Emunah Events. Carissa shares her journey in the wedding industry, discussing her background, the evolution of her business, and the importance of cohesive design in weddings. She emphasizes the significance of having a dedicated team, the challenges of staffing, and the unique client experience she aims to create. The conversation also touches on sourcing unique wedding decor, industry challenges, and Carissa's future plans for expanding her services.
Takeaways
Carissa emphasizes the importance of a cohesive design in weddings.
Carissa values her team and invests in their growth and education.
She believes in the power of saying no to projects that don't align with her style.
The wedding industry is evolving, and stylists need to adapt to new trends.
Sourcing unique decor is crucial for standing out in the market.
Carissa aims to provide a unique client experience through her services.
She plans to expand her offerings to include full planning and coordination.
Building strong relationships with venues is key to her business success.
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 + Joel xx
 

Toga + Joel Ep 2.- Understanding Run Sheets and Wedding Day Flow

Welcome to Episode 43 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga + Joel sit down for a chat about Runsheets, Group Photos and Good Audio, filmed at the ever so stunning Gabbinbar.
In this episode of the Wedco podcast, hosts Toga and Joel discuss various aspects of wedding planning, focusing on run sheets, reception flow, family dynamics, and the importance of audio and video considerations.
They share insights on how to create a smooth wedding day experience, the significance of respecting family traditions, and tips for couples when inquiring about wedding services. The conversation emphasizes the collaborative nature of wedding planning and the importance of communication between couples and vendors.
Takeaways
Run sheets are essential for a smooth wedding day.
Allocate enough time for each segment of the day.
Group photos are still a popular tradition.
The wedding day should balance personal desires and family traditions.
Couples should communicate their needs clearly to vendors.
Audio quality is vital for capturing wedding moments.
Inquiries should be personalized to foster better communication.
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 + Joel xx

Hello Josh Withers : The Art of a Ceremony

Welcome to Episode 42  of the Wed.Co Podcast.
Today, Toga + Joel sit down with Josh Withers Wedding Celebrant for a chat about Elopements, not using a script and also different traditions in a wedding Ceremony.  This episode was filmed at the absolutely stunning Gabbinbar.
In this episode of the Wedco podcast, hosts Toga and Joel engage with celebrant Josh, discussing his journey in the wedding industry, the importance of creating meaningful ceremonies, and the evolving landscape of weddings. They explore the challenges of being a celebrant, the significance of audio quality during ceremonies, and the business aspects of celebrancy. The conversation emphasizes the need for celebrants to adapt to changing times and to build a supportive community within the industry.
Takeaways
The journey of a celebrant often begins with a personal experience that inspires them to improve the wedding ceremony.
Living standards should guide life decisions rather than just setting goals.
Creating a meaningful ceremony requires understanding the couple and reading the room.
Celebrants should focus on the future of the couple rather than just recounting their past.
The dynamics of a wedding ceremony can vary greatly between large weddings and intimate elopements.
Audio quality is crucial in weddings, and celebrants must be knowledgeable about their equipment.
The wedding industry is evolving, and celebrants need to adapt to new trends and expectations.
Building a community among celebrants can enhance professional development and support.
Marketing and advertising strategies for celebrants must evolve with the changing landscape of the wedding industry.
Celebrants should prioritise their relationships with couples and understand their needs. 
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 + Joel xx

Under The Arbour: "I'm going to the North Pole next year."

Welcome to Episode 41 of the Wed.Co Podcast. Today, Toga + Joel sit down with Nat from Under the Arbour for a chat about giveaways, marathon running and everything in between, filmed at the stunning Greenview 1963 in Cabarita Beach.
Natalie from Under the Arbour shares her journey in the wedding industry, from being a wedding planner to becoming a wedding celebrant. She talks about the growth of her business and her plans to expand and scale.
Natalie also discusses her passion for running and her upcoming adventure of running a marathon at the North Pole.
She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and practical experience in the wedding planning industry. Natalie acknowledges the lack of balance in her life but remains determined and organized in pursuing her goals.
In this conversation, Nat from Under the Arbour discusses her approach to creating exceptional experiences for couples and their guests. She emphasizes the importance of quality time and connection, both in her personal life and in her business. Nat also shares her strategies for marketing and growing her business, including running giveaways and building strong vendor relationships.
She highlights the value of on-the-day coordination and the ability to adapt to unexpected situations. Overall, Nat's focus is on creating memorable moments and making couples feel valued and supported throughout their wedding journey.
Takeaways
The wedding planning industry requires practical experience and mentorship to excel.
Balancing work and personal life can be challenging in a growing business.
Determination and organization are key to achieving goals.
Having a supportive team and delegating tasks is essential for business expansion.
Passion and dedication are necessary to succeed in any industry. Creating exceptional experiences for couples and their guests is a top priority for Under the Arbour.
Quality time and connection are essential in both personal and professional relationships.
Running giveaways and building strong vendor relationships are effective marketing strategies.
On-the-day coordination and adaptability are crucial for ensuring a smooth wedding experience.
Making couples feel valued and supported throughout their wedding journey is key to success.
 
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 + Joel xx