Event Fusion Podcast™: Recent Episodes

Bennell LaPorte

Bennell LaPorte, an Event Fusion Specialist by trade and a lover of all things boujee by heart, is on a mission to save guests from the dreaded torture of attending yet another boring event. In this podcast she shares the real, uncut, and hilarious truths about what it actually takes to plan experiences that leave guests wishing they would’ve paid the extra hour for the sitter. Around here, we keep it real and honest. Get the help you need to go from mediocre to marvelous in 15 minutes or less. Connect with us at info@laporteandcompany.com.

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In this week's episode, we're debunking one of the biggest lies ever told.

In this episode:

  • How the biggest lie we've been told since childhood has affected the way we operate in the world
  • Understanding the Rule of Two
  • The biggest trap people fall into when they're thinking of hosting an event

As always, if you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend and tag me on social media @bennelllaporte on Instagram.

Catch up with me on socials at https://www.instagram.com/bennelllaporte/

GET YOUR HANDS ON THIS

Can't get enough of this show and looking for more insider tips? I've got you covered!

Grab my free guide to Elevating Your Events. This guide is filled with over 20 pages of insider planning tips and secrets, design inspiration and more. Boring, uninspired events are a thing of the past.

Other resources:

Looking for event planning support? Check out my website and let's work together: https://laporteandcompany.com/events

Want everything in one place? Start here: https://laporteandcompany.com/links

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What's the first thing you think of when you hear the word: luxury? If your mind immediately went to over-the-top opulence like fancy cars, expensive yachts, designer labels and more — you're not alone.

In this weeks' episode, we're discussing how the idea of what luxury is, is quickly changing. You won't want to miss this one!

In this episode:

  • What quiet luxury is and is not
  • How the TV show Succession helped bring this concept into the mainstream
  • Insider tips on how to infuse the concept of quiet luxury into your next event.

As always, if you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend and tag me on social media @bennelllaporte on Instagram.

Catch up with me on socials at https://www.instagram.com/bennelllaporte/

GET YOUR HANDS ON THIS

Can't get enough of this show and looking for more insider tips? I've got you covered!

Grab my free guide to Elevating Your Events. This guide is filled with over 20 pages of insider planning tips and secrets, design inspiration and more. Boring, uninspired events are a thing of the past.

Other resources:

Looking for event planning support? Check out my website and let's work together: https://laporteandcompany.com/events

Want everything in one place? Start here: https://laporteandcompany.com/links

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There is more that goes on behind the scenes of an event than most people realize. Beyond simply being your event professional who's in charge of managing the 10,000 moving pieces of your event, we also play some additional roles that are critical to the success of your big day.

In this episode:

  • The other (unknown yet important) roles that event professionals play
  • Why we may be expensive but, we're actually cheaper than therapy
  • The added benefits you get when you decide to bring us on to your team.

As always, if you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend and tag me on social media @bennelllaporte on Instagram.

Catch up with me on socials at https://www.instagram.com/bennelllaporte/

GET YOUR HANDS ON THIS

Can't get enough of this show and looking for more insider tips? I've got you covered!

Grab my free guide to Elevating Your Events. This guide is filled with over 20 pages of insider planning tips and secrets, design inspiration and more. Boring, uninspired events are a thing of the past.

Other resources:

Looking for event planning support? Check out my website and let's work together: https://laporteandcompany.com/events

Want everything in one place? Start here: https://laporteandcompany.com/links

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We've all been there at one point or another. The labored breathing, sweaty palms, elevated heart rate and sudden onset of brain fog. And why? Because we're about to talk to someone about that dreaded topic we'd all do almost anything to avoid — MONEY.

In this week's episode:

  • Two simple strategies to make having these conversations feel (a bit) easier and less scary.
  • Why it's so important to talk about money as early and transparently as possible and
  • The four types of people in your life you should be having this conversation with and why.

These conversations are never easy but, after listening to this episode you'll be much better equipped to engage in these talks in a way that feels both empowering and liberating. And that feeling? It's priceless.

Catch up with me on socials at https://www.instagram.com/bennelllaporte/

GET YOUR HANDS ON THIS

Can't get enough of this show and looking for more insider tips? I've got you covered!

Grab my free guide to Elevating Your Events. This guide is filled with over 20 pages of insider planning tips and secrets, design inspiration and more. Boring, uninspired events are a thing of the past.

Other resources:

Looking for event planning support? Check out my website and let's work together: https://laporteandcompany.com/events

Want everything in one place? Start here: https://laporteandcompany.com/links

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The frustration of going to an event planner's website, looking for the investment price for their services, and coming up empty handed, can be exhausting.

In this episode:

  • The strategic reason why some planners don't have service prices listed on their websites
  • What language to look for on a website when searching for this information
  • The specific question to ask a planner when their prices aren't listed and how to get a direct answer

Want to see what this looks like in practice? Check out my website for an example of how I describe my fee structure: https://laporteandcompany.com/events

Follow the show and hit the subscribe button so you don't miss out when a new episode drops.

GET YOUR HANDS ON THIS

Can't get enough of this show and looking for more insider tips? I've got you covered!

Grab my free guide to Elevating Your Events. This guide is filled with over 20 pages of insider planning tips and secrets, design inspiration and more. Boring, uninspired events are a thing of the past.

Other resources:

Looking for event planning support? Check out my website and let's work together: https://laporteandcompany.com/events

Want everything in one place? Start here: https://laporteandcompany.com/links

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Well, it's been over a year since our last episode and so much has happened since then. If you didn't get a chance to listen to our last episode before our (extended) hiatus, go and give that a listen at some point. It provides additional context for what is shared in this episode. (And shhhh! It's also one of our most listened to episodes).

When it comes to business, priorities and figuring out what it is you truly want and need, there really is no timeline for that. That's the beauty (and sometimes burden) of entrepreneurship.

I'm excited to be back, sharing some time and space with you and continuing to share my perspective on all things events, planning, travel and business.

In this episode:

  • I'm sharing the behind-the-scenes reasons why I took a step back from podcasting
  • What I've been up to in that time and
  • What you can expect from me and this show moving forward in 2023

Follow the show and hit the subscribe button so you don't miss out when a new episode drops.

GET YOUR HANDS ON THIS

Can't get enough of this show and looking for more insider tips? I've got you covered!

Grab my free guide to Elevating Your Events. This guide is filled with over 20 pages of insider planning tips and secrets, design inspiration and more. Boring, uninspired events are a thing of the past.

Other resources:

Looking for event planning support? Check out my website and let's work together: https://laporteandcompany.com/events

Want everything in one place? Start here: https://laporteandcompany.com/links

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It's been a while but we are BACK!

New episodes of the Event Fusion Podcast are coming at you starting in March.

Can't wait until then? We have plenty of episodes for you to listen to and catch up on before new ones hit the airwaves. In the meantime, I'm curious to know, which topics are you interested in hearing more about moving forward? If you're listening on Spotify let me know in the poll.

As a special thank you for tuning in, I have a treat for you. If you've ever wondered how to create events that leave your guests wanting more — I have the perfect answer. Grab my free guide to Elevating Your Events. Filled with over 20 pages of insider planning tips and secrets, design inspiration and more, your neighbors will be begging you to invite them to the next one.

Other resources:

Looking for event planning support? Check out my website: https://laporteandcompany.com

Want everything in one place? Start here: https://laporteandcompany.com/links

Follow the show and hit the subscribe button so you don't miss out when a new episode drops.

I can't wait to chat with you again. This is going to be fun!

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un·com·fort·a·ble

/ˌənˈkəmfərdəb(ə)l,ˌənˈkəmftərbəl/

adjective

  • causing discomfort or distress; painful; irritating.

No one likes to feel it but within the entrepreneurial space, it's one of the best gauges to determine if you're actually on the right path. 

In this episode we're covering: 

  1. The one investment to make that will move your business further, faster.
  2. The real reason you want to get as uncomfortable as possible, as often as possible.
  3. The one word you need to completely remove from your vocabulary - immediately.

Know someone who would enjoy listening to this episode? Share it with them and tag me on Instagram at @bennelllaporte or @laporteandcompany.

Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

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Two of the biggest, most immediate points of connection between human beings are food and music. This week, we're talking about the latter.

In this episode we're covering:

  • Why creating an attendee profile is critical for your event.
  • The one thing to never outsource to a family member.
  • Two helpful resources to ensure your party never falls flat. (See links below).

Spotify Playlists: be sure to hit Follow on each of these playlists so you don't miss the latest song additions.

Dance Party Playlist - Never again worry about getting the party started. These songs (both classic and new) are the perfect ingredient to get your guests out of their seats and on to the dance floor.

90s R&B Playlist - Reminisce with some of the '90s greatest chart-topping hits.


Tell me, did some of your favorites make the cut? What are some other songs I should include? Hit me up on social media and let me know.

Know someone who would enjoy listening to this episode? Share it with them and tag me on Instagram at @bennelllaporte or @laporteandcompany.

Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

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In this day and age, your name, time, and reputation are the most precious commodities you own.

In this episode we're covering:

  • Why safeguarding your personal name should be at the top of your priority list.
  • How one simple oversight can unwittingly cost you your reputation.
  • The one deadline to ensure you never miss in your business.
  • A helpful resource to help ensure your online presence is protected. (See link below).

Event Planners Consortium™ [WAITLIST NOW OPEN]!

Have you always wanted to start your own event planning business but simply didn't know where to begin?

Inside Event Planners Consortium™ you'll get the complete, step-by-step business framework I personally created to launch my own event planning company.

If you're ready to take your part-time hobby and turn it into a legitimate, profitable, and sustainable full time events business, then this academy was specifically designed with you in mind.

No more Googling "how to start an event planning business" or cobbling together random pieces of information that do nothing more than waste your time, money, and patience.

Spots are limited so join the waitlist now and be the first to know when the academy officially launches. I can't wait to welcome you inside!


Namecheap (Domain Purchase Resource)*

If you've been wondering how to secure the domain(s) for either your personal name, brand, or company - look no further. From domains, to website hosting, email and more, Namecheap is your one stop shop to ensure that you have everything you need to efficiently and effectively run and manage your business's most used online assets.

Protecting your online presence is the easiest way to ensure that you secure your genius. All of my domain name purchases have come from Namecheap. Securing a domain has never been easier. Simply search, select, pay and you're off and running.

*This is an affiliate link and LAPORTE & COMPANY, LLC may earn a commission on purchases made at no additional cost to you.


Know someone who would enjoy listening to this episode? Share it with them and tag me on Instagram at @bennelllaporte or @laporteandcompany.

Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

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Sometimes we cut corners on the mistaken assumption that it'll save us time but, what happens when that corner you just cut lands you in unknown legal jeopardy?

In this episode we're covering:

  • Why paying on the front end is always better than paying on the back end.
  • The one practice you should stop doing immediately.
  • A helpful resource that'll get you out of paralysis by analysis when it comes to lawyering up. (See link below).

Event Planners Consortium™ [WAITLIST NOW OPEN]!

Have you always wanted to start your own event planning business but simply didn't know where to begin?

Inside Event Planners Consortium™ you'll get the complete, step-by-step business framework I personally created to launch my own event planning company.

If you're ready to take your part-time hobby and turn it into a legitimate, profitable, and sustainable full time events business, then this academy was specifically designed with you in mind.

No more Googling "how to start an event planning business" or cobbling together random pieces of information that do nothing more than waste your time, money, and patience.

Spots are limited so join the waitlist now and be the first to know when the academy officially launches. I can't wait to welcome you inside!


Your Legal BFF® (Business Contract Resource)*

If you've been copying and pasting contracts from all over the internet because the thought of hiring a lawyer makes you want to run for the hills, fear not - I've got you covered. Your Legal BFF® is your go-to legal bestie for easy-to-understand and industry-specific contract templates that help you confidently start, grow and protect your business. My business contracts have all come from this resource and I no longer worry about not being legally protected.

From a comprehensive event planning services contract to a photo and video release and more, Your Legal BFF® has every contract you need to ensure you and your business are fully protected - from start to finish.

*This is an affiliate link and LAPORTE & COMPANY, LLC may earn a commission on purchases made at no additional cost to you.


Know someone who would enjoy listening to this episode? Share it with them and tag me on Instagram at @bennelllaporte or @laporteandcompany.

Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

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Providing an endless buffet of options to your clients because you believe it'll somehow make things easier, is hurting your efficiency and productivity.

In this episode we're covering:

  • How bending over backwards to make things easier for clients but harder on yourself is the kiss of death in business.
  • Why parenting is not much different than running a business.
  • How employing the "no more than 2" golden rule will save not just your sanity but also your team's.

Event Planners Consortium™ [WAITLIST NOW OPEN]!

Have you always wanted to start your own event planning business but simply didn't know where to begin?

Inside Event Planners Consortium™ you'll get the complete, step-by-step business framework I personally created to launch my own event planning company.

If you're ready to take your part-time hobby and turn it into a legitimate, profitable, and sustainable full time events business, then this academy was specifically designed with you in mind.

No more Googling "how to start an event planning business" or cobbling together random pieces of information that do nothing more than waste your time, money, and patience.

Spots are limited so join the waitlist now and be the first to know when the academy officially launches. I can't wait to welcome you inside!


Know someone who would enjoy listening to this episode? Share it with them and tag me on Instagram at @bennelllaporte or @laporteandcompany.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

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There's so much information out there about the things you "need" to do to start a business. It's enough to drive anyone bonkers. If you've felt overwhelmed and confused by the influx of information out in the inter webs, you're not alone.

In this episode we're covering:

  • How to differentiate between important start up decisions vs window dressing decisions for your business.
  • A few key questions to consider as you entertain the idea of becoming an entrepreneur.
  • The single biggest reason you're overwhelmed by the prospect of launching a business and why you should exhale instead.

Event Planners Consortium™ [WAITLIST NOW OPEN]!

Have you always wanted to start your own event planning business but simply didn't know where to begin?

Inside Event Planners Consortium™ you'll get the complete, step-by-step business framework I personally created to launch my own event planning company.

If you're ready to take your part-time hobby and turn it into a legitimate, profitable, and sustainable full time events business, then this academy was specifically designed with you in mind.

No more Googling "how to start an event planning business" or cobbling together random pieces of information that do nothing more than waste your time, money, and patience.

Spots are limited so join the waitlist now and be the first to know when the academy officially launches. I can't wait to welcome you inside!


Know someone who would enjoy listening to this episode? Share it with them and tag me on Instagram at @bennelllaporte or @laporteandcompany.

Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

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I'm baaaaaack!

After a mini hiatus, I am officially back and ready to roll. In this week's episode, we kick off our topic series for the month of March where we'll be focusing on a few key things to consider if you’re thinking about launching your own events business.

In this episode we're covering:

  • Three (3) ways your side hustle is costing you money.
  • The one thing you should never mess around with in your business.
  • A helpful resource that'll get you out of paralysis by analysis when it comes to lawyering up. (See link below).

Event Planners Consortium™ [WAITLIST NOW OPEN]!

Have you always wanted to start your own event planning business but simply didn't know where to begin?

Inside Event Planners Consortium™ you'll get the complete, step-by-step business framework I personally created to launch my own event planning company.

If you're ready to take your part-time hobby and turn it into a legitimate, profitable, and sustainable full time events business, then this academy was specifically designed with you in mind.

No more Googling "how to start an event planning business" or cobbling together random pieces of information that do nothing more than waste your time, money, and patience.

Spots are limited so join the waitlist now and be the first to know when the academy officially launches. I can't wait to welcome you inside!


Your Legal BFF® (Business Contract Resource)*

If you've been copying and pasting contracts from all over the internet because the thought of hiring a lawyer makes you want to run for the hills, fear not - I've got you covered. Your Legal BFF® is your go-to legal bestie for easy-to-understand and industry-specific contract templates that help you confidently start, grow and protect your business. My business contracts have all come from this resource and I no longer worry about not being legally protected.

From a comprehensive event planning services contract to a photo and video release and more, Your Legal BFF® has every contract you need to ensure you and your business are fully protected - from start to finish.

*This is an affiliate link and LAPORTE & COMPANY, LLC may earn a commission on purchases made at no additional cost to you.


Know someone who would enjoy listening to this episode? Share it with them and tag me on Instagram at @bennelllaporte or @laporteandcompany.

Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

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We've all likely reached our breaking point with Zoom events by now. They used to be fun and exciting but now, they feel burdensome and somewhat annoying.

Beat the Zoom event fatigue with these four quick tips.

Things you'll learn in this episode:

  • Why the length of your Zoom event is killing your engagement.
  • An easy fix to ensure you don't have frustrated Zoom attendees.
  • How to mimic a surprise party in a virtual setting.

Event Planners Consortium [WAITLIST NOW OPEN]!

Have you always wanted to start your own event planning business but simply didn't know where to begin?

Have you opted in to get all the freebies you can get your hands on hoping to figure it all out but yet, you're still in the same place you were before you started?

Inside Event Planners Consortium you'll get the complete, step-by-step business framework that I personally created and used to launch my own event planning company.

If you're ready to take your part-time hobby and turn it into a legitimate, profitable, and sustainable full time events business, then this academy was specifically designed with you in mind.

No more Googling "how to start an event planning business" or cobbling together random pieces of information that do nothing more than waste your time, money, and patience.

Spots are limited so join the waitlist now and be the first to know when the academy officially launches. I can't wait to welcome you inside!


Know someone who would enjoy listening to this episode? Share it with them and tag me on social media @bennelllaporte or @laporteandcompany.

Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

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One of the most common questions I always get asked is what's it like being an event planner? To be fair, it comes from a place of sheer curiosity because many people don't know how you get into an industry where you get paid to plan parties.

I'm tackling that question and more in this week's conversation.

Things you'll learn in this episode:

  • Why conventional knowledge doesn't apply when it comes to getting into the events industry now.
  • How fine tuning your planning skills will pay off in spades in the coming months.
  • Why your Extroverted friends are about to become insufferable.

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!

Have you always wanted to start your own event planning business but simply didn't know where to begin?

Have you opted in to get all the freebies you can get your hands on hoping to figure it all out but yet, you're still in the same place you were before you started? If you answered yes...

Introducing....

Event Planners Consortium [WAITLIST NOW OPEN]!

Inside Event Planners Consortium you'll get the complete, step-by-step business framework that I personally created and used to launch my own event planning company.

If you're ready to take your part-time hobby and turn it into a legitimate, profitable, and sustainable full time events business, then this academy was specifically designed with you in mind.

No more Googling "how to start an event planning business" or cobbling together random pieces of information that do nothing more than waste your time, money, and patience.

Join the waitlist now and be the first to know when the academy officially launches. I can't wait to welcome you inside!


Know someone who would enjoy listening to this episode? Share it with them and tag me on social media @bennelllaporte or @laporteandcompany.

Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

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This week kicks off the start of a new, ongoing series I’ll be bringing to the Event Fusion Podcast™ - the Industry Insider Series.

In these episodes, I'll be interviewing and introducing you to, experts within and around the events space that are innovating and changing the way we view and experience events.

In the series' inaugural episode, I am speaking with Katherine Frost, former wedding planner and founder of the newly launched event planning platform, ORO.

Things you'll learn in this episode:

  • The one piece of advice event planners are telling their clients to completely ignore and throw out the window.
  • How the global pandemic has become a blessing in disguise for those wishing to plan lavish events.
  • ORO - the platform that will change how you look at Excel sheets and Google Docs moving forward.

About Katherine:

Katherine began her career in sales, working for a Destination Management Company. Her love for making things beautiful, combined with her sales and operational expertise, led her to start her wedding and event planning company, A Frosted Affair.

After over 10 years in the events industry, it became apparent that the technology available to event professionals was lacking and so, with a pivot in 2019 she assembled a team to create the professional planning platform called ORO. With Katherine’s industry know how and innate understanding of what event professionals need, ORO was created to be an all-in-one platform to help those in the events industry, plan and manage their events with efficiency and ease.

To learn more about ORO and get the platform for $1,000/year for life, visit https://www.oroplanner.com.

*You must sign up before January 31, 2021 to take advantage of this special offer.**

Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

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Happy New Year! 

It feels like a lifetime ago that we were looking at December on our calendars but, we are officially a week into 2021. 

The start of each new year brings with it so much excitement and grandiose ideas for all of the things we'd like to accomplish. 

However, before you start making crazy lists, here are a few things you'll learn in this episode: 

  • The one thing I stopped doing this year that made goal setting so much less stressful.
  • What's the one thing you need in order to make any new year's goal or resolution work.
  • A fun update about what's coming up this year.

Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Join the newsletter today to stay in the know and be the first to find out about the exciting new things coming up with this podcast and LAPORTE & CO. 

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If there was ever a time when something deserved to be dispatched with a heartfelt "Good riddance!" it would be all of 2020. 

While this year had a stupendously absurd amount of crazy, there was still so much good that came out of it. 

As we head into the new year let's take a deep breath, exhale and say a collective "WOOOO SAAAAH" because honey, we earned it. 

There's only 3 days left until we turn the page. Let's make them count. 

Cheers to 2021! 


Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

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We've officially reached the end of our countdown! Did you correctly guess what the #1 event planning pain is? 

Whether you're a wizard at Excel or you'd rather listen to nails on a chalkboard than deal with that dreaded program, there's no getting around dealing with your event's budget and worst yet, tracking it. 

Resources shared in this episode:

Bizzabo Event Management Software: https://bit.ly/37yAvia

MobileCause Fundraising Software (nonprofits): https://bit.ly/3gnfqvf

If you missed any of the previous countdown episodes, they're all available to stream now.  Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

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We're almost finished with our countdown! Here we go with Pain #2: Short Lead Times.

Are you loving this countdown? If so, tell a friend so they can join in on the fun! 

And hey! Don't forget to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

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The fun just doesn't stop! Here we go with Pain #3: Guest Management.

Managing your guests is a necessary evil that won't go away...ever. But! There is a way to manage it all without losing your entire mind. 

Resources mentioned in the episode:

  • OnArrival by CVENT: https://bit.ly/2JH1Dnl
  • Social Tables Check In: https://bit.ly/3gzeBPV

For additional event registration and guest check-in options, check out this article: https://bit.ly/3n6oKWy 

Like what you heard and think someone else should listen in too? Be a pal and share this with them! And remember to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

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On we go with Pain #4: Time Management.

In this episode, I'm sharing with you my time tested technique to ensure I get my work done in record time. 

Resource mentioned in the episode:

  • If you've never heard of binaural beats or simply want to give it a try, this is one of my personal favorites for concentration: https://bit.ly/3oEb2KX. For best results, it's best to listen to them with headphones on.

You can find additional binaural beats tracks for concentration, motivation or creativity on YouTube. Simply search "binaural beats." 

Like what you heard and think someone else should listen in too? Share this episode with a friend and remember to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

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Let's keep on rolling with Pain #5: Negotiation.

In this episode, learn THE biggest mistake I see people make when it comes to negotiation and how to avoid it. 

Like what you heard and think someone else should listen in too? Share this episode with a friend and remember to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

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The fun continues with Pain #6: Unrealistic Deadlines.

In this episode, I share the secret deadline hack I've used for years to ensure my team and I never miss a deadline. 

Like what you heard and think someone else should listen in too? Share this episode with a friend and remember to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

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Our countdown continues with Pain #7: Work & Life Balance.

Just because you plan incredible experiences and events for others, doesn't mean that your personal life should have to suffer as a result. Learn how to employ healthy work/life balance habits for yourself and model them for your team. 

Need yet another reason to see how event planners are actually real-life super heroes? Check out this article: https://bit.ly/3mYQw7m 

Like what you heard and think someone else should listen in too? Share this episode with a friend and remember to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

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Our countdown continues with Pain #8: Venue Booking & Management.

Like what you heard and think someone else should listen in too? Share this episode with a friend and remember to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

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Our countdown continues with Pain #9: Event Marketing.

Like what you heard and think someone else should listen in too? Share this episode with a friend and remember to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

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Our countdown continues with Pain #10: Organization and Team Investment.

Like what you heard and think someone else should listen in too? Share this episode with a friend and remember to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

Want to get even more expert tips? Join the newsletter to stay in the know!

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In the spirit of the holiday season, we are counting down the top 12 pain points event planners face. Join me, as I discuss what these are and share with you, easy to implement solutions to efficiently and effectively navigate them all.

We continue our countdown with Pain #11: Data Collection & Analysis

Like what you heard and think someone else should listen in too? Share this episode with a friend and remember to RATE, SUBSCRIBE and REVIEW.

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In the spirit of the holiday season, we are counting down the top 12 pain points event planners face. Join me, as I discuss what these are and share with you, easy to implement solutions to efficiently and effectively navigate them all.

We begin our countdown with Pain #12: Guest Engagement and Retention.

For more information on the benefits of event gamification, check out this article: https://bit.ly/2VD9gxd

Curious to learn more about guest engagement apps for your events? Check this out: https://bit.ly/3osmc5x 

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It's the supremely uncomfortable (and still taboo) conversation you never want to have. 

Firing a client.

Before you go looking for matches to torch that working relationship, learn the four things you need to know to keep your sanity and reputation, in tact. 

  • When should you fire a client?
  • How do you go about engaging in this conversation?
  • What's one simple thing you can do to avoid this situation all together?

If you're a business owner or thinking of becoming one? This is one muscle you'll need to build - and quickly. 

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This episode is different....and, it's my most vulnerable one yet. 

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Challenging clients. 

We've all had them and yes, you're almost guaranteed to have a few more. 

Before you begin counting down the days until that project with that difficult client is complete, you may want to consider how this challenging relationship is actually helping you grow. 

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With so many people preparing for the end of this never ending year, in this episode, I'm spilling the tea and preparing you for the next 18-24 months. Buckle up because it's about to get real. 

In this episode you'll learn:

  • The one thing to start doing now so you're prepared to save BIG later.
  • The hard truth people keep tip-toeing around that's not doing you (or anyone else) any favors.
  • How the Hunger Games analogy will pay off big time in 2022.

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It's one of the biggest and most egregious culinary sins committed during events and I'm here to help you do better, so you can bebetter. 

In this episode you'll learn:

  • The one thing that will absolutely tank your event and how to avoid it.
  • Why you should avoid serving this one particular dish at all costs and
  • How a Blue Kamikaze and a Purple Haze cocktail are just the spark plug you need to electrify your event.

Planning an event and ready to stop spinning your wheels trying to staple Jell-O to a wall? LAPORTE & COMPANY can help.  

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When it comes to co-hosting an event, the decision about which people should be a part of it should be treated like a military recon operation. You need to assess the strengths of each individual and then proceed with a detailed strategy to ensure the mission is accomplished. 

In this episode you'll learn:

  • 2 things you should never mix together.
  • How assuming things will magically work out without a clear plan in place is always a recipe for disaster.
  • The best ways to approach having difficult conversations about money with your closest friends.

In case you missed it, check out Episode 2: Volun-told Culture and Why It's Toxic. 

Planning an event and ready to stop spinning your wheels trying to staple Jell-O to a wall? LAPORTE & COMPANY can help.  

For more information: LAPORTE & COMPANY Links

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When was the last time you ran a marathon while mowing the lawn, doing the laundry and getting your hair cut - all at the same time? For me, it was the last time I planned an event...in a manner of speaking. 

Event Planners. The glue that holds the coordinated chaos together. 

In this episode you'll learn:

  • The one thing your guests are thinking but won't ever say to your face.
  • Why you should act as a guest at your own event.
  • The 3 things that set Event Planners apart from normal human beings.

Ready to stop spinning your wheels and trying to staple Jell-O to the wall? LAPORTE & COMPANY can help.  

For more information: LAPORTE & COMPANY Links

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It's the 4-word question that requires more preparation than any other: WILL. YOU. MARRY. ME. 

With so many proposals taking place each day, coming up with a plan to pop the question that is unique and unlike anything your soon-to-be fiancé  has probably heard about is no easy feat. 

Forget the ring in the dessert or the embarrassing Jumbotron proposal. We're elevating you (and your plan) from the minor leagues to the major leagues. 

In this episode you'll learn:

  • The place that is renowned for hosting 20 proposals per day.
  • How to use subtle details to make a big impact and impression.
  • The one crucial thing you need to consider before moving forward with your proposal plan.

Have you recently become engaged? Did you listen to this episode and then pop the question to your loved one? We'd love to hear about it! Send us a message on Instagram or shoot us an email at info@laporteandcompany.com and let us know how it went. ⠀⠀⠀

For more information: LAPORTE & COMPANY Links

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It's the unexpected (global) surprise few saw coming. 

Virtual Events. 

In this episode you'll learn:

  • 4 ways virtual events are changing the Events Industry
  • Why YOU should be taking notice and
  • The 3 Cardinal Rules of events all planners should know.

Have thoughts about the episode? We’d love to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram or email us at info@laporteandcompany.com with feedback or questions. ⠀⠀⠀⠀

LAPORTE & COMPANY Links

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It's the insidious little secret that many companies and managers engage in but no one talks about. 

Volun-told Culture.

In this episode you'll learn: 

  • What it is
  • How to recognize it
  • Three key strategies for navigating it and
  • The one harsh truth you probably don't want to hear.

Have thoughts about the episode? We’d love to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram or email us at info@laporteandcompany.com with feedback or questions. ⠀⠀⠀⠀

LAPORTE & COMPANY Links

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On the inaugural episode of the Event Fusion Podcast, we’re diving straight into event fusion. We’re breaking down what it actually is, what it looks like in practice, as well as sharing a creative way that you can incorporate this concept into your next event.

You’ll learn why Bennell calls herself an Event Fusion Specialist and how her unique title came from a scientific term that you might not have heard about. Wondering what the universally inexhaustible supply of energy is called? Listen to the episode to find out.

To celebrate the launch of the podcast, we’re holding a special giveaway! For your chance to enter, follow the instructions below.

  • Subscribe to the Event Fusion Podcast
  • Take a screenshot confirming your subscription
  • Upload the screenshot to https://bit.ly/2CWzs0d

Entries are due by August 31 at 12pm EST. Winners will be announced on social media and notified via email the first week in September.

Have thoughts about the episode? We’d love to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram or email us at info@laporteandcompany.com with feedback or questions. ⠀⠀⠀⠀

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Welcome to the Event Fusion Podcast. 

Are you tired of rinse and repeat events that only seem to serve dry chicken? Or functions that completely missed the mark and left you thinking “what the heck just happened? Now that’s 2 hours of my life I’m never getting back!” You are? Great, me too! That's why, I created this podcast. 

This podcast will provide the real talk and humor you wish your event planner had if they weren’t always so professional around you. I’ll show you how to take your events from mediocre to marvelous - in 15 minutes or less.

Stop dreading the event planning process and instead, make your events the talk of the town. New episodes coming soon.

In the meantime, be sure to hit the subscribe button so you don’t miss out on all the latest event planning and money saving tips.

I’ll chat with you soon…