The Venue Podcast

Feeling like your dream of owning a wedding venue is slipping away? Take a breath — and don’t give up. In this solo episode, Lindsay Lucas, wedding venue consultant, shares a powerful mindset shift that could change everything: You don’t have to build the dream all at once. You just have to start smart. If traditional funding options said "no," it might be time to go back to the drawing board and explore building your venue in phases — a strategic, sustainable approach that reduces financial risk, opens more funding doors, and even comes with added benefits like spreading out tax liabilities over several years. You’ll learn: Why “no” from a bank isn’t the end — it’s feedback for your plan How breaking your project into 2–3 realistic phases can get you to the finish line faster The long-term financial and operational upsides of a phased approach How to regroup, rethink, and relaunch your venue dream without losing momentum Whether you’re in the early dreaming stage or facing obstacles mid-build, this episode will help you realign with your vision and move forward — wisely. Connect with Kinsey & Lindsay: Website Instagram

"Bookings are down for this year" - sound familiar? If you've been watching your lead pipeline slow to a trickle while refreshing your inbox hoping for inquiries, this episode is your lifeline. Kinsey and Lindsay are pulling back the curtain on three strategies that are actually working to generate wedding venue leads right now (not the same tired advice you've heard a million times). Grab your notebook (seriously, you'll want to take notes!) as Kinsey breaks down: 📱 Strategy #1: Leverage Social Media Consistently Learn the exact content formula that moves couples through their buyer's journey - 40% awareness content, 40% consideration content, and 20% decision content. Plus, discover how to use automation tools like ManyChat to be the fastest responder in your couples' DMs. 🤖 Strategy #2: Optimize for AI Search & SEO Visibility Traditional SEO is evolving rapidly. Find out how to position your venue for AI search tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Google's Gemini. We'll share specific tactics for creating AI-friendly content that gets your venue found. 🤝 Strategy #3: Network & Collaborate Strategically Move beyond random networking events. Learn how to deepen relationships with your vendor partners, host meaningful gatherings at your venue, and become the go-to connector in your market. Whether you're an aspiring venue owner or a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, this episode delivers actionable strategies you can implement today. Resources mentioned: ManyChat (for social media automation) Claude by Anthropic ChatGPT Perplexity Google's Gemini AI Got questions or want to share your success? Find us on Instagram @yourvenueexperts or email us at shecreatesbusinesspodcast.com P.S. Would you attend a venue owners conference in Colorado? Let us know - we might just be planning something special! 👀

In this episode Lindsay answers a listener's question, "Should my wedding venue accommodations be in a separate LLC?" If you're running (or planning) a venue with onsite lodging, this episode is a MUST-LISTEN 🎧 Lindsay breaks down exactly why smart venue owners separate their accommodations into their own LLC: Liability protection (because wedding drama ≠ lodging issues) Different insurance needs = different coverage Cleaner financials = better business decisions Exit strategy flexibility (sell one, keep the other!) This listener question came at the perfect time - so many of you are adding accommodations or considering it. Don't make the mistake of lumping everything together! Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay Website Instagram

In this episode, Kinsey Roberts and Lindsay Lucas break down the key steps for wedding venue owners considering selling their business. With an increase in inquiries about buying and selling venues, they share practical advice based on real experience. Key Takeaways: Get your financials organized first - Buyers want to see actual profit, not just potential. Have your gross and net revenue clearly documented and ready for scrutiny. Prepare for thorough due diligence - Serious buyers will conduct what feels like a "financial cavity search." Be organized with all paperwork, documentation, and proof of income. Decide your selling strategy early - Determine if you're selling just the business, just the real estate, or both together. This affects your entire approach and gives you flexibility later. Get a professional business valuation - Hire a third-party evaluator with venue or hospitality experience, or start with DIY options like bizequity.com to reduce attorney hours. Ensure legal compliance - Review all licenses, permits, zoning requirements, and existing contracts with vendors and employees before listing. Manage your expectations - Buyers purchase based on current profit, not future potential. If they're buying for potential, expect a lower price since they'll be doing the work to realize that potential. Consider your personal brand - If you've built the venue around founder content and personal branding, start shifting to venue-focused content well before selling, as buyers see no equity in your personal brand. Prepare emotionally - Selling is an emotional journey for both parties. Don't take buyer questions personally - they're seeking facts, not criticizing your management. Use NDAs properly - Any serious buyer should be willing to sign a non-disclosure agreement. If they won't, they're not serious.

THIS IS PART TWO OF OUR TWO-PART PODCASTS ALL ABOUT ANSWERING THE QUESTION: How do you make your wedding venue stand out during tours? Are your venue tours not converting the way you'd hoped? You're not alone. Most venue owners focus solely on aesthetics during tours, but the venues consistently booking at premium rates understand something crucial: the tour experience is fundamentally a neurological journey. In this episode, Kinsey and Lindsay break down the three neural systems that factor into venue decision-making and reveal why couples actually make their venue choice within the first 90 seconds of experiencing your space. You'll discover how to create a multi-sensory experience that hits all five senses, learn to identify and eliminate "sensory dead zones" in your tour route, and understand how to create emotional anchors that help couples visualize their future wedding at your venue. We're also sharing practical strategies for reducing decision fatigue, specific examples of how to incorporate scent and sound into your tours, and actionable steps you can implement immediately to improve your conversion rates. This isn't about spending thousands on renovations - it's about working strategically with what you already have to create an unforgettable experience that moves couples from "maybe" to "yes."

Are your venue tours not converting the way you'd hoped? You're not alone. Most venue owners focus solely on aesthetics during tours, but the venues consistently booking at premium rates understand something crucial: the tour experience is fundamentally a neurological journey. In this episode, Kinsey and Lindsay break down the three neural systems that factor into venue decision-making and reveal why couples actually make their venue choice within the first 90 seconds of experiencing your space. You'll discover how to create a multi-sensory experience that hits all five senses, learn to identify and eliminate "sensory dead zones" in your tour route, and understand how to create emotional anchors that help couples visualize their future wedding at your venue. We're also sharing practical strategies for reducing decision fatigue, specific examples of how to incorporate scent and sound into your tours, and actionable steps you can implement immediately to improve your conversion rates. This isn't about spending thousands on renovations - it's about working strategically with what you already have to create an unforgettable experience that moves couples from "maybe" to "yes." Shop Venue Owner's Favorite Resources: https://stan.store/yourvenueexperts Connect On Instagram  Email Kinsey and Lindsay:  kinsey@shecreatesbusinesspodcast.com  hello@thelindsaylucas.com   

In this episode, Kinsey dives into a fascinating Harvard Business Review article that reveals why only 5% of social media content goes viral—and how you can strategically increase your odds. Discover the powerful SPREAD framework that breaks down viral content into six key dimensions: Socially useful, Provocative, Replicable, Emotional, Ambiguous, and Distributive. From Duolingo's viral owl to Taylor Swift's cryptic album drops, learn how major brands engineer shareability into their campaigns. But going viral isn't just about creating buzz—Kinsey explores the critical backend systems you need in place to handle sudden traffic spikes and avoid the pitfalls that can crush unprepared businesses. Plus, she tackles the honest question every business owner wonders: Should going viral actually be your goal? This episode is for venue owners looking to create content that truly connects and spreads to the right audience.  Resources mentioned: Harvard Business Review SPREAD framework article Jay Baer's "Youtility" Book Marcus Sheridan's "They Ask You Answer" Book What's your take on going viral? Share your thoughts with us @yourvenueexperts

In part two of our venue survival strategies series, we're diving deep into what actually works when bookings are down and cash flow is tight. We cover diversification strategies beyond just "host more events" (including why Kinsey might be too precious about being wedding-day-only events), smart debt management tips, and the real talk about where to spend vs. save your marketing dollars right now. Lindsay shares client success stories about adjusting payment structures to increase bookings, while Kinsey gets honest about her own struggles with leadership mindset during tough times. We also tackle the psychology of team management, including how Donald Miller saved his company by being transparent with his team (spoiler: they helped save the business). Key takeaways: Why cutting your marketing budget is the worst thing you can do The 3-6-12 month projection strategy you need to implement NOW How to leverage your property assets you didn't know you had When to hire financial help vs. DIY (hint: stop white-knuckling your cash) Links: Link to our PDF with 50 non-wedding event ideas Link to our past episode on revenue diversification strategies. 

In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on one of the most powerful (yet overlooked) tools in your venue business arsenal. As both a venue owner and marketing coach, I've seen firsthand how proper market analysis can transform a struggling venue into a confident, thriving business. Book Kinsey to Perform YOUR Market Analysis Here You'll discover: Why checking competitor prices once a year isn't nearly enough (and what you're missing when you do) The exact step-by-step process I use to analyze my venue's market position How to translate market insights into revenue-generating action steps The surprising competitive advantages most venues completely overlook Real examples of how small adjustments based on market analysis led to significant booking increases Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate an established venue, this episode will give you the tools to position your business more strategically, price more confidently, and get out of the "reactive venue owner" trap. Ready to become the venue that others are scrambling to compete with? Let's dive in. Connect with Kinsey: kinsey@shecreatesbusinesspodcast.com Book Kinsey to Perform YOUR Market Analysis Here

In this episode of The Venue Podcast, we tackle the critical topic of venue survival during challenging economic periods. Drawing from extensive industry research and our own experiences as a venue owner and venue consultant, we offer a roadmap for navigating slower booking seasons—whether you're experiencing a true economic downturn or just a temporary lull. We dive into interesting market shifts affecting the wedding industry, including: - Why 85% of couples are making decisions based on economic pressures - The surprising continued rise of micro-weddings since 2020 - Changing social norms around smaller, more personalized celebrations - How Gen Z and Millennial couples are reshaping wedding expectations This episode provides practical strategies for venue owners to stay competitive, including creating smart tiered pricing packages that maintain profit margins while appearing more affordable to budget-conscious couples. We share candid insights about our own business pivots and the importance of differentiating your venue beyond just day-of-week pricing. Whether you're struggling with bookings or simply want to future-proof your venue business, this episode offers valuable insights on adapting to current market realities without compromising profitability. And don't miss part two (coming 5/26/25), where we'll explore diversification strategies, alternative revenue streams, and psychological approaches to team management during slower periods. Connect with Lindsay and Kinsey:  Instagram: Your Venue Experts  Email Lindsay - hello@thelindsaylucas.com  Email Kinsey - kinsey@shecreatesbusinesspodcast.com

Dreaming of building your wedding venue from the ground up? In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly what new venue owners need to know about funding in today’s market — including the latest curveballs from the SBA, how DSCR loans work, and my go-to digital tools to prep your funding package. If you're serious about starting your venue the right way, this is a must-listen!   Mentioned in this episode: Funding 101 Venue Acquisition Guide   Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay Website Instagram

  Ever wondered who’s behind the scenes shaping our journey and pushing us to grow? In this episode, Lindsay is pulling back the curtain and sharing the mentors, teachers, and thought leaders who have influenced her most in the last year—both personally and professionally. From industry experts to unexpected sources of wisdom, you’ll hear who she’s learning from right now and how their insights are helping her evolve. Whether you're looking for guidance or just curious about where she gets her inspiration, this episode might just introduce you to your next favorite mentor. Mentioned in this episode: Pace Morby Codie Sanchez Ed Mylett Justin Prince Make Wellness Gina with Cowboy Leisure - Reel Saloon Shannon McKinstrie - Good Content Lindsay’s personal instagram Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay Website Instagram

Show Notes In this informative episode, Lindsay shares what she would tell her best friend if she were navigating a first time purchase of an existing wedding venue. Lindsay gives you invaluable insights on where to find these listings, proper etiquette, and the best first steps to take once you've found a business of interest. This episide will help you approach venue acquisition with confidence and clarity to get your journey started. Resources Mentioned Lindsay's venue acquisition guide Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay Website Instagram  

Show Notes: Join us as Kinsey pulls back the curtain on her personal business education journey! In this value-packed episode, discover the diverse sources shaping Kinsey's business strategy—from luxury fashion houses and high-end brands to Target's innovative designers and today's most influential marketing experts. Learn how these cross-industry insights can transform your business approach, marketing strategy, and brand positioning. Whether you're a small business owner, entrepreneur, or marketing professional, you'll walk away with actionable lessons from some of the most successful brands and marketers in the world. Tune in to expand your business perspective and unlock new growth opportunities by learning from unexpected mentors across the business landscape. Mentioned in this episode: Gary Vee Marcus Sheridan - They Ask You Answer - Endless Customers - latest book Sheer Luxe Jade Holland Cooper McGee and Co Yvonne Lafleur  MNTN Media Connect with Kinsey and Lindsay Website Instagram

In the latest episode of The Venue Podcast, we dive into the topic of client gifting strategies for venue owners, emphasizing the balance between thoughtfulness and budget. Our hope in today’s episode is to inspire venue owners to implement or refine their gifting strategies, ensuring you make a lasting impression on your clients. Here's a closer look at the insights and tips shared: Client Gifting as a Dual Purpose Tool: We underscore that gifting is not just an act of kindness but also a strategic marketing move that helps in building stronger relationships with clients and promoting your venue through positive word-of-mouth. Nine Creative Gift Ideas: Customized Welcome Gift Baskets featuring local treats, personalized notes, and a bottle of champagne. Personalized Stationery, useful for wedding planning notes or thank-you cards. Regional Wedding Magazine Subscriptions, providing inspiration and local vendor options. Spa Gift Certificates for relaxation during the stressful wedding planning process. Custom Sketch of Your Venue, a keepsake item for couples to cherish. Comprehensive Wedding Planning Books to assist in the organization and planning. Personalized Wedding Ornaments, a festive reminder of their special day. Monogrammed Items, offering a personal touch that celebrates the couple's union. Custom Spotify Playlists, a free and thoughtful way to share music that might resonate with the couple's journey. Strategic Gifting Moments: Upon Booking: A gesture of welcome and excitement about their decision. After the First Planning Meeting: Offering practical items like notepads or stationery. During Stressful Milestones: A spa certificate to encourage relaxation. Six Months Before the Wedding: Checking in and reminding couples of your support. During the Final Walkthrough: Providing vow books as a thoughtful touch. One Month Before the Wedding: Focusing on relaxation-focused gifts. A Week Before the Wedding: Building excitement with a custom playlist. On the Wedding Day: A small, personalized gift as a token of appreciation. After the Honeymoon: Sending a framed photo from their wedding day to prolong the joy. We also recommend the book "Giftology" by John Ruhlin for further inspiration on crafting a meaningful client gifting strategy. If you’re interested in one on one Venue Consulting with Lindsay, visit her here: https://thelindsaylucas.com/