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MAKING MEMMORIES SINCE 1955

 

Hello Veronica,


My Amazing Experience at the ASTA Conference in Utah – And Why I’m Already Signed Up for Next Year!


In May, I flew out to Utah—yes, Utah!—for the ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors) Conference. To say that it was amazing is putting it lightly. The experience was so fantastic, I’ve already signed up for next year’s conference!


What is ASTA?

For those unfamiliar with ASTA, it is the world’s leading association of travel professionals. ASTA is the global advocate for travel agencies, the travel industry, and the traveling public. Their commitment to championing ethical practices and promoting traveler-friendly policies at every level of government makes them a cornerstone of the travel industry. Their work ensures that travelers have access to reliable, professional travel advisors who prioritize their needs.


A Game-Changing Experience

The ASTA Conference was an eye-opening experience, packed with industry insights, cutting-edge trends, and invaluable networking opportunities. From dynamic speakers to hands-on workshops, I walked away with a deeper understanding of the travel landscape and how it intersects with the wedding and event planning industry.


One of the highlights was learning about the latest travel technologies and innovations that can enhance the services we offer to our clients. Whether it’s leveraging data for personalized travel experiences or staying ahead of evolving traveler preferences, the ASTA Conference made it clear that there are endless opportunities for growth in this space.


Networking with Industry Leaders

Another standout moment was the opportunity to connect with travel professionals from around the world. The networking at ASTA was top-notch—an incredible mix of seasoned experts and emerging players, all coming together to share ideas and best practices. I had the privilege of chatting with several industry leaders who shared their perspectives on how travel and weddings are increasingly intertwined.


Looking Ahead to Next Year

After such a rewarding experience, it was a no-brainer to sign up for next year’s conference. The level of expertise, the wealth of resources, and the overall enthusiasm from the ASTA community made it an event I can’t afford to miss in the future.


Why It Matters for You

For all of our ABC members involved in travel or interested in expanding into this area, I highly recommend keeping an eye on what ASTA is doing. Their focus on traveler advocacy, ethical practices, and the future of travel offers tremendous potential for wedding planners and vendors who want to offer more holistic, travel-inclusive services to their clients.


As we look to continue growing and enhancing ABC’s travel offerings, the lessons I’ve learned at the ASTA Conference will be instrumental in shaping how we can better serve you. The future of wedding and event planning is intertwined with the evolving world of travel—and I’m excited to see where this journey takes us!

 
 

Stepping on $100 Bills to Pick Up Pennies: Why You’re Leaving Valuable Benefits on the Table

As a member of the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC), you’ve made an investment in your career and your business. But are you fully capitalizing on the benefits that come with your membership? It’s like stepping on $100 bills to pick up pennies – you’re missing out on opportunities that could significantly elevate your business.


The Power of Membership

From exclusive industry partnerships to access to premium educational resources, your ABC membership offers far more than meets the eye. Every benefit is designed to give you a competitive edge, whether it’s increasing visibility through the Member Directory, honing your skills with specialized training, or gaining new leads through our corporate partnerships.


But here's the catch: if you're not using these benefits, they’re essentially left untapped, like leaving money on the table. And in today’s fast-paced wedding industry, every advantage counts.


What You Could Be Missing

Exclusive Webinars & Training:

ABC regularly offers professional development webinars, from the latest trends to practical business advice. These sessions are designed to keep you ahead of the curve, providing insights that can transform your approach to wedding planning and event coordination.


Networking Opportunities:

Being part of a global community means access to a network of like-minded professionals who share your passion for weddings and events. This network can open doors to potential collaborations, client referrals, and new business opportunities that you might otherwise miss.


Member-Only Discounts and Deals:

We’ve partnered with key industry players to offer discounts that can save you money on services and products that benefit your business. Whether it’s discounts on event supplies, advertising, or insurance, these savings can quickly add up.


Visibility Through the ABC Member Directory:

Being listed in the ABC Member Directory gives you exposure to a broad audience of engaged couples, wedding planners, and vendors searching for trusted professionals. If you're not updating your listing or using it to its fullest potential, you're missing out on potential clients who are actively seeking your services.


Marketing Support:

With features in Wedding Planner Magazine, social media shoutouts, and spotlight opportunities, ABC helps promote your business to a larger audience. These marketing tools are a key part of building your brand, but they only work if you engage with them.


Don’t Let These Opportunities Pass You By

Just as you wouldn’t ignore a stack of $100 bills on the ground, don’t let these valuable membership perks slip through your fingers. The ABC team is here to help you make the most of your membership, but it’s up to you to take the first step.


If you're not sure how to get started or need help accessing these benefits, reach out to our team. We’re here to ensure you maximize the full potential of your membership. After all, it’s your business — make it count.


Action Steps:

  • Log into your ABC Member Portal today to update your profile and take advantage of your listings and networking opportunities.
  • Register for upcoming webinars and training to level up your expertise and stay ahead of industry trends.


Don’t leave valuable opportunities behind. Let’s work together to ensure you’re picking up those $100 bills, not the pennies.


 
 

CALENDER OF UPCOMING EVENTS

Invest in yourself! Get out to our local state and networking group meetings! Attend a webinar.

Get out and take a course and learn how to make your business more successful! 

There are so many wonderful events and classes coming your way.


View More Of Our Event Calendar Here

 

June 4 - Stop Dragging Your Boots. Get Your Affairs in Order

June 9 - Certified Wedding & Event Planner Certification Course - University of Texas at Arlington - TX

June 26 - New Member Onboarding

June 26 - ABC Georgia presents Gail Johnson, South Georgia Regional Chapter Head International Association of Destination Wedding Professionals (IADWP)



Be sure to click the link and attend!! Get out there and network!

Please note, to respect the speakers and time of the members who are on the webinar during their lunch hour, registration for events stops at the time the webinar begins. If you wait until the last second to register, you may need to watch the replay, so register early. In addition, we will stop at 100 registrations per online webinar.

 
 

Today, ALL conference payments are due! In addition, if you haven't signed up yet, payment for conference is due in full.

If you've already registered, be sure to book your hotel room. The discounted room block link is below. The discounted room block ends June 30th, so make sure you have your reservation completed by then!

 

Speaking Opportunity

The Wedtech Academy is currently looking for speakers!


If you want to get into speaking at conferences, then this is a great way to start!


The audience is Hospitality Students, and the webinars are on Wednesdays at 7 pm EST.


To learn more, please visit their website here:

Marriott Training


Meetings Excellence! (ME!) is Marriott International's award-winning, online library of training for accredited third-party meeting professionals.


Available in 10 languages, the comprehensive training provides hotel and meetings industry knowledge, sales tips, information on Marriott's portfolio of brands and programs, and more, all in streamlined, microlearning modules available from any web-enabled device (computer, tablet, phone).


Plus, qualified Marriott Meeting Professionals gain access to Plan-Tastic rates, our discounted familiarization rates, so you can experience our brands for yourself.

 
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5 Ways to Protect Your Sanity During Peak Wedding Season


Let’s be honest—wedding season is magical… and also a little bit mayhem. Between timelines, vendor calls, emotional couples, and endless to-do lists, even the most seasoned planners can feel the pressure. But you don’t have to lose your mind (or your weekends) to make it through. Here are five tried-and-true ways to stay grounded while making the magic happen:


1. Set Boundaries (And Stick to Them)

Just because you can be available 24/7 doesn’t mean you should be. Let clients know your response times and carve out “off” hours. Protecting your time protects your creativity.


2. Plan Your Own Timeline

Treat yourself like a client—schedule admin days, meal breaks, and breathing room before events. Add buffer time in your calendar to regroup after a big wedding weekend.


3. Use the ABC Job Board

You’re only one person, and this isn’t the time to be a hero. Need help? The ABC Job Board connects you with assistants and vendors who understand the wedding-day hustle. Don’t wait until you're overwhelmed—delegate early!


4. Keep a “Win List”

When things feel chaotic, jot down what went right each week. A happy bride, a saved rainy day, a vendor who crushed it. It’s a quick mood boost and a great reminder that you’re crushing it, too.


5. Lean on Your ABC Family

Attend a local meeting, join a webinar, or drop into the Facebook group. A little encouragement (and a few laughs) from others who get it can make all the difference.


Peak season is a marathon, but you don’t have to run it alone. You’ve got a community, resources, and a whole lot of experience in your corner—use them!

 
 

Reminder: Apply for the Penner Scholarship & Submit Nominations for the Heart Award!

Don't miss your chance to take part in two incredible opportunities that can help elevate your career and recognize outstanding professionals in the wedding industry!


Penner Scholarship: This scholarship offers financial support for those pursuing further education in wedding planning and event management. If you're looking to level up your skills and grow in the industry, be sure to apply before the deadline.


Heart Award: Know someone who goes above and beyond in their dedication to the wedding industry? The Heart Award honors those whose passion, integrity, and commitment make a real difference in the lives of others. Submit your nominations today!


Be sure to take advantage of these opportunities to invest in yourself and recognize excellence in our community!

Make Sure Your Are In Our Members Only Facebook Group!


There is a lot going on in our Members Only Facebook Group! If you aren't in there...click below and get in...

Also, don't forget to follow us on:


Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

Linked In

 
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Check our ABC's Blog! Lots of great articles there and more to come. Here are some from May:


Are You Ready for Destination Wedding Clients?


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Tips to Manage Stress on Wedding Day – For Wedding Professionals



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DELIVERING QUALITY EDUCATION & TRAINING TO THE WEDDING AND EVENT INDUSTRY

Members@abcweddingplanners.com

PO Box 2 , Gibsonville NC 27249

Ph: 336-690-5510

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