Path to Business
89 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 days ago -Path to business - the podcast.
We are your hosts Luc & Bethany Barrette. We’re husband and wife team building a legacy with our 3 children that we’re so damn proud of!
School of Youtube graduates, Full-time wedding photographer and videographer operating a thriving 6-figure business.
We share all our best strategies & experiences that we’ve learned along the way.
Featuring other amazing businesses so you can genuinely get inspired.
This is YOUR… path to business.
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Episodes
85. The Love-Hate Relationship with Wedding Photography
July 12, 2024 13:00 - 36 minutes - 33.3 MBOne of the greatest joys of wedding photography is the immense satisfaction we get from capturing moments that will be cherished forever. The first time we delivered a wedding gallery and received heartfelt appreciation from the couple, it was a turning point. Knowing that our work is treasured and will be looked back on fondly for years warms our hearts. This recognition and gratitude are what propelled us from our full-time jobs into full-time entrepreneurship. No two weddings are the sam...
84. Staying Focused During Wedding Season: Tips and Tricks for Wedding Professionals
July 05, 2024 13:36 - 38 minutes - 35.1 MBWe're diving into a topic that's all too familiar for wedding professionals: staying focused during wedding season. Let's be real, it's tough for everyone. I don't think there's a single wedding pro out there who feels like they've got it all together, especially during the peak of the season. During the off-season, many of us dive into various projects, whether it's launching a podcast, planning new marketing strategies, or updating our portfolios. This period is crucial for setting the gr...
83. Photo Walks: Building a Community (Why it's worth the effort)
June 29, 2024 16:35 - 26 minutes - 23.9 MBWe're thrilled to share some exciting news about our recent activities! We’ve started focusing on mentorship programs and in-person teaching for the past year. Many local photographers often seek opportunities to become second shooters at weddings or to build their wedding portfolios, and we thought, "Why not help them?" This would also allow us to identify gaps in what photographers want to learn and offer targeted guidance. Reflecting on our journey, we wish such opportunities had been a...
82. Montreal DJ Reveals Secrets to Creating a Luxury Experience
June 21, 2024 15:44 - 1 hour - 58.1 MBSpecial Guest: Majd from Back to Basics Entertainment Insta: @btbmtl Website: https://btbmtl.com We were thrilled to recently welcome Majd from Back to Basics Entertainment to our podcast studio, engaging in a captivating and enlightening dialogue about the music and events industry. Traveling all the way from Montreal, Majd shared with us his rich experience spanning over 12 years. His journey, which began with an undergrad in finance and accounting, took a transformative turn when he disc...
81. Wedding Photographers Recap an Epic Wedding Day (2024)
June 14, 2024 13:00 - 26 minutes - 24.7 MBHey everyone! Today’s episode is going to be a bit different. We're starting a new mini-series where we recap weddings in 2024. We'll dive into what went well, what didn’t, and share our thoughts and feelings. It’s a fun way to reminisce and celebrate the incredible couples we work with. Let's kick it off with Kaitlyn and Erin’s wedding! The Journey to the Big Day Kailyn and Aaron approached us in 2022, eager to book for 2024 even before our books were open. Their enthusiasm was contagious...
80. Mastering Niching: From All-Trades to Wedding Pros
June 08, 2024 13:00 - 26 minutes - 24.6 MBIn this video, we dive deep into the journey many photographers face: deciding when to transition from being a jack of all trades to specializing in one specific category. For us, that journey led us to become wedding photography and videography experts. 🌟 We'll share our personal story, from starting out with a wide range of photography services—pets, families, newborns, corporate events, and more—to finally niching down into weddings. Discover how this focus transformed our business and b...
79. The PERFECT Wedding Day Timeline (Tips From a Pro)
May 31, 2024 13:00 - 36 minutes - 33.1 MBBride &/ Groom Free Questionnaire: https://greyloftstudio.myflodesk.com/wedding-timeline-questionnaire Photographer Free Questionnaire: https://greyloftstudio.myflodesk.com/wedding-timeline-questionnaire-photographer As a wedding photographer, setting clear expectations with clients is crucial, especially since you're coordinating various events throughout the day. To ensure a smooth experience, it’s important to create a detailed game plan. This involves planning the timeline 6-8 weeks be...
78. How to Build an Effective Website
May 24, 2024 13:00 - 31 minutes - 28.7 MBBuilding an effective website as a creative professional is essential. It's your online portfolio and a way to attract new clients. Forbes states almost half (48%) of visitors will determine the credibility of a business based on their website. But creating a site that works well can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you build a great website and avoid common mistakes. 1. Keep It Simple A simple, clean design works best. Visitors should easily find what they're looking for. Too much cl...
77. How to Start a Wedding Photography Business in 2024
May 17, 2024 13:00 - 39 minutes - 35.9 MBWe tell you the top things you should know about how to start a wedding photography business in 2024. If we were to start our wedding photography business today, it would look quite different from when we first began. Over the past nine years, we've learned invaluable lessons that we wish we had known from the start. Gaining experience and building a portfolio is crucial in the early stages. Assisting experienced photographers can provide a behind-the-scenes look at the flow of a wedding d...
76. How to Prepare for Wedding Season as a Photographer & Videographer (2024)
May 10, 2024 14:08 - 44 minutes - 40.3 MBThe wedding season is approaching, and for those in the industry, it's not just about capturing beautiful moments but also about being mentally and physically prepared for the journey ahead. As the pace shifts from the end of one season to the anticipation of the next, priorities evolve, focusing on self-care, business improvement, and gearing up for the upcoming events. At the close of a season, it's crucial to take time for self-care, to recharge and prevent burnout. Wedding professionals...
75. How to Book Ideal Clients as a Wedding Photographer & Videographer
May 03, 2024 13:00 - 36 minutes - 33.2 MBWhen it comes to finding your ideal client, it's not just about booking weddings—it's about finding the perfect match. We've spent years refining our understanding of what makes the ideal client for our wedding photography business, and it's been an enlightening journey. Reflecting on our experiences, we realized that the couples who truly stood out to us were those where every aspect of the wedding felt right. It wasn't just about capturing beautiful moments; it was about connecting with c...
74. Handling Friends & Family as an Entrepreneur
April 26, 2024 13:00 - 23 minutes - 21.6 MBStarting a business can be thrilling, but what happens when your closest circle doesn't fully support your entrepreneurial journey? In our candid chat, we delved into the complexities of starting a business amidst skeptical friends and family. 🤔 Skepticism & Support: It's common for loved ones to express doubt when you embark on entrepreneurship. They might worry about the viability of your venture or recall past experiences with MLM schemes. But beneath the skepticism lies genuine care and...
73. Having a Backup Plan as a Wedding Professional
April 19, 2024 13:00 - 32 minutes - 29.8 MBToday, we're diving deep into a crucial aspect of being a wedding professional: having a backup plan. We all know that weddings are intricate events with numerous moving parts. Yet, unlike many other professions, we don't get sick days. When you're a wedding professional, there's no calling in sick; you have to show up no matter what. The topic of backup plans often arises, especially during unpredictable times like the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Couples began to ask, "What if someone ...
72. Videographer vs Photographer - Who Should Make More?
April 09, 2024 16:03 - 29 minutes - 27.3 MBIn the realm of wedding services, there's a heated debate which revolves around which aspect should take precedence: photography or videography. While both are essential for capturing the special moments of a wedding day, there's a trend that videographers should be valued more than their photographic counterparts. This controversial subject sparks strong feelings and it's worth exploring. This debate begins with an acknowledgment of the distinct skill sets required for both photography and...
71. How to Grow Your Business using Behind the Scenes Content
March 25, 2024 19:01 - 19 minutes - 17.7 MBToday, let's delve into the world of behind the scenes (BTS), not the boy band, but the essential aspect of showcasing the inner workings of your business. As photographers, finding compelling content to share can sometimes be challenging. Clients crave authenticity, a peek behind the curtain, understanding the intricacies of what goes into capturing their special moments. Weddings are an intricate dance of emotions, logistics, and creativity. For photographers, it's not just about clicking...
70. Building a Photo Booth Empire with Catalina Bloch
March 22, 2024 13:00 - 57 minutes - 52.7 MBSpecial Guest: Catalina Bloch Photobooth www.mdrnphotoboothcompany.com www.instagram.com/mdrnphotoboothco Studio Rentals www.mdrnstudio.space Photography www.instagram.com/mdrnactivations Audio Guest Book www.gushline.com Photo Booth Mastery Course www.instagram.com/photoboothmastery [email protected] LEARN THE INS AND OUTS OF RUNNING A PHOTO BOOTH BUSINESS Catalina has built digital courses that cover everything – from tech choices and client experience to business strate...
69. How to Handle Rain on Your Wedding Day
March 18, 2024 15:11 - 24 minutes - 22.1 MBRain on your wedding day is not exactly what most couples envision when they plan their special day. But as much as we hope for clear skies and sunshine, sometimes Mother Nature has other plans. So, what do you do when rain threatens to dampen your wedding festivities? Here are some insights and tips to help you navigate through the challenges and still have a memorable day: Embrace the Unexpected: While rain might add stress to your wedding day, try to embrace the unexpected. Remember, som...
68. Budgeting and Tax Tips Every Wedding Photographer Needs
March 12, 2024 00:45 - 24 minutes - 22.3 MBUse our Referral Code to get 75% off first 6 months! QuickBooks Online Link: https://refer.quickbooks.ca/s/3nubu Tax season—it's a phrase that can bring on a lot of emotions for business owners, from stress and anxiety to a sense of overwhelm. However, with the right strategies and mindset, tackling taxes can be easier. Today, we're sharing some tips and insights extracted from our own experiences to help make the process a little less daunting. Staying on top of your finances is crucial,...
67. Our Favourite Things on a Wedding Day
March 08, 2024 17:00 - 39 minutes - 36.3 MBFrom Luc's obsession with free food and Bethany's need to be over prepared, we share with you some of our favourite things that can exist on a wedding day. If you're a bride or groom, you might want to take notes because we are sure we aren't the only ones that feel this way. One of Bethany's unforgettable moments was dancing with her dad to a special song on our wedding day. It was a moment she had envisioned for years, and when it finally came to fruition, it was everything she had dreame...
66. Community Over Competition
March 04, 2024 19:44 - 25 minutes - 23.2 MBIn light of recent events, our community has been faced with a significant tragedy that has rippled through our social circles and beyond. As we grapple with the aftermath, it's become apparent just how interconnected our lives and businesses truly are. In the wake of this tragedy, we've witnessed a surge of support and resilience from our community members. From Facebook groups to local gatherings, people are banding together to offer assistance and find solutions amidst the chaos. Yet, am...
65. Behind the Beats with Dynamix Productions
March 02, 2024 14:13 - 54 minutes - 49.6 MBToday, we are thrilled to welcome Stefan Gonthier, a prominent DJ based in Ottawa, into our studio to delve into his remarkable journey in the world of music and entertainment. Stefan graciously shares insights into his career trajectory, from his early days in nightclubs to his evolution into a sought-after event DJ. Join us as we uncover the story behind the beats and the passion that drives this talented artist. As our conversation with Stefan begins, we reminisce about the sstrange way ...
64. How to Use the Power of Social Media
February 28, 2024 19:54 - 35 minutes - 32.4 MBImagine social media as a bustling cityscape, where millions of voices are trying to be heard. It's a place where entrepreneurs want to stand out, share their stories, and make their mark. We know that in this world we need to have a presence online or you will not find success. We decided to challenge ourselves to create 30 days of content for our podcast. Our goal was to create content that resonates with audiences but more importantly figuring out our process and getting some practice un...
63. Crafting Memorable Wedding Speeches: Tips and Insights
February 28, 2024 01:08 - 28 minutes - 26 MBWeddings are joyous occasions filled with laughter, tears, and heartfelt moments. One aspect that often stands out during these celebrations is the speeches. Whether delivered by the best man, maid of honour, or a close family member, a well-crafted speech can leave a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. Let's delve into the art of creating memorable wedding speeches, sharing tips and insights to help you shine on the big day. Wedding speeches are more than just words; they're an o...
62. How to be a Good Second Shooter for Weddings
February 26, 2024 19:46 - 23 minutes - 21.3 MBIn the intricate world of wedding photography, the presence of a second shooter can make all the difference between capturing ordinary moments and immortalizing extraordinary memories. Having spent years navigating through the nuances of wedding shoots, we've come to appreciate the indispensable role that second shooters play in crafting unforgettable visual narratives. In this post, we'll delve into the dynamics of second shooting, exploring what makes a second shooter invaluable, the chall...
61. Answering Questions from Our Viewers!
February 25, 2024 17:00 - 19 minutes - 17.6 MBBehind the scenes, wedding experts often face tricky situations, such as figuring out how to mention other businesses on social media or working closely with their spouse. In this blog post, we'll talk about these kinds of issues and share tips from people who know the wedding business well. One common question that wedding professionals face is how to approach tagging vendors in posts on social media platforms. With multiple collaborators involved in creating a wedding, deciding whom to ta...
60. Working with Grey Loft Studio with Hersi Osman
February 24, 2024 16:36 - 36 minutes - 33.7 MBToday, we delve into the unique perspective of Hersi, a talented individual who seamlessly weaves together the art of wedding photography and video work. We met Hersi in 2021 and he was a natural addition to the Grey Loft Studio team. We all love to laugh together at inside jokes but also challenge each other to improve our craft and give our clients the best experience. Before stepping into the realm of photography and film, Hersi's journey took him through the corridors of the healthcare ...
59. Choosing Your Wedding Videographer - What Questions to Ask?
February 23, 2024 17:00 - 26 minutes - 24.3 MBPlanning a wedding involves making countless decisions, and choosing the right videographer is undoubtedly one of the most crucial ones. Your wedding video will be a cherished memento for years to come, so it's essential to ensure that you hire a professional who can capture the magic of your special day. Here are some essential questions to ask a potential wedding videographer: What is the backup plan for the videographer on the day of the wedding?: Ensure there's a contingency plan in pla...
58. Make Weddings Fun Again with Jeff Maeck
February 22, 2024 20:45 - 1 hour - 73.6 MBSpecial Guest: Jeff Maeck https://maeckweddings.com/ https://www.instagram.com/heyjeffmaeck/ Today, let's delve into the remarkable journey of Jeff, a man whose story encapsulates the essence of passion, perseverance, and the power of meaningful work. Join me as we uncover the narrative of a man who went from uncertain beginnings to becoming a guiding light in the wedding industry. Jeff's journey begins with a serendipitous encounter, where he finds himself thrust into the world of wedding...
57. How to Create the Perfect Wedding Timeline
February 22, 2024 01:11 - 38 minutes - 35 MBPlanning a wedding is like orchestrating a symphony, with each element carefully coordinated to create a harmonious experience. Among the myriad decisions couples face, one often overlooked yet crucial aspect is the wedding day timeline. It's the roadmap that guides the day's events, ensuring that everything runs smoothly from "I do" to the last dance. In this post, we delve into the importance of crafting a solid schedule and share insights from our experience in the industry. "I think a g...
56. Choosing Your Dream Wedding Venue
February 20, 2024 22:23 - 35 minutes - 33 MBIn the vast landscape of wedding venues, finding the perfect setting for your special day can be both thrilling and daunting. As seasoned professionals who have witnessed diverse locations and experiences, we understand the significance of guiding couples through this pivotal decision-making process. Let's delve into why certain aspects hold more weight and explore key factors to consider when selecting your ideal venue. It's no secret that wedding venues can vary significantly in cost. Whi...
55. What Wedding Planners Wish You Knew with Erica Irwin
February 19, 2024 21:48 - 59 minutes - 54.9 MBWe are thrilled to have the opportunity to sit down with Erica Irwin and dive into the wonderful world of wedding planning. Planning a wedding is exciting and filled with anticipation, dreams, and the thrill of bringing your vision to life. As we embark on this journey together, let's explore the process of deciding on a wedding planner from the client's perspective as well as what vendors can do to have a great experience with a planner. When couples first step into the realm of wedding pl...
54. Small Details That Make a Big Impact on Your Wedding Day
February 18, 2024 22:02 - 56 minutes - 51.3 MBPlanning a wedding involves juggling countless details, both big and small. As a wedding photographer, I've witnessed firsthand how these seemingly minor elements can significantly impact the overall experience of the day. Today, let's delve into the significance of these small details and how they can make a big difference in your wedding, from preparation to reception. From the moment you start getting ready, the small details can set the tone for the entire day. Ensuring everyone is dres...
53. Making Your Wedding Unique: Creative and Affordable Ideas
February 17, 2024 16:52 - 17 minutes - 15.7 MBAre you planning your dream wedding and want it to be unforgettable? Today, we.re diving into ways you can make your special day truly unique and stand out without breaking the bank. From personalized touches to creative additions, let's explore how you can add flair and personality to your wedding celebration. Incorporating signature drinks into your wedding menu is an excellent way to infuse personal flair into the celebration. Consider crafting cocktails that hold special significance to...
52. Wedding Vendor Etiquette
February 16, 2024 20:08 - 33 minutes - 30.9 MBIn the bustling world of wedding planning, success isn't just about capturing the perfect moment; it's about navigating conflicts, building relationships, and ensuring a seamless experience for couples and vendors alike. As a seasoned wedding professional, I've witnessed firsthand the intricate dance of collaboration, compromise, and creativity that goes into crafting unforgettable moments. At the heart of every successful wedding is a dedicated team, each playing a vital role in bringing t...
51. Our Thoughts On Valentine's Day
February 15, 2024 02:22 - 13 minutes - 12 MBAs Valentine's Day rolls around each year, the air fills with whispers of romance, expectation, and sometimes, a touch of anxiety. For many couples, this day represents an opportunity to celebrate love in all its forms, but it can also bring about questions, doubts, and differing expectations. In a candid conversation between Luke and his partner, they delve into the nuances of Valentine's Day and how they navigate the holiday's expectations within their relationship. Luke begins by express...
50. The First Look Dilemma: Tradition vs. Modernity
February 13, 2024 20:00 - 23 minutes - 21.2 MBAs wedding photographers and videographers, we've witnessed countless love stories unfold, each with its own unique twists and turns. But there's one aspect of wedding planning that often sparks debate among couples: the first look. At first glance, it might seem like a minor detail, but trust us, it's a decision that can have a significant impact on your big day. Let's dive into the whirlwind world of first looks and explore why they're not always what they seem. What is a First Look Anyw...
49. Pärla Hair: The Story of Kira, Queen of the Perky Pony
February 12, 2024 14:44 - 1 hour - 66.3 MBWe have the pleasure of delving into the fascinating path of Kira, also known as the Queen of the Perky Pony, Bridal Hair Stylist in the wedding industry. From her humble beginnings to her current success, Kira's story is one of determination, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Let's explore her journey step by step.Kira's journey into the wedding industry began with a moment of realization. Despite struggling with debt and feeling stuck in a job she wasn't passionate about, Kira took...
48. Our Craziest Wedding Story
February 10, 2024 18:50 - 18 minutes - 16.8 MBAs a wedding photographer and videographer, we've experienced our fair share of eventful days, but nothing quite prepared us for the whirlwind that was the craziest wedding day we've ever had. It's a story that's taken some time to process, as the events of that day left us feeling like we had developed a bit of PTSD. But now, we feel ready to share our wild journey with you. The Backstory: A Last-Minute Twist It all started with a couple who had originally planned to tie the knot in 2020....
47. Crafting Meaningful Wedding Vows
February 10, 2024 04:26 - 14 minutes - 13.2 MBAre you ready to say "I do" in a way that truly reflects your love and commitment? Today, let's delve into the art of creating memorable wedding vows. Crafting heartfelt vows is essential because they set the tone for your special day and serve as promises exchanged between partners. Here are some valuable insights to consider as you embark on this journey: Start your journey to the altar by beginning your wedding vow writing process early. This strategic move allows ample time for reflectio...
46. Lessons Learned from Mistakes We Made
February 09, 2024 02:42 - 35 minutes - 49.6 MBEstablishing Relationships with Industry Vendors: Launching into the industry can be daunting, particularly when it comes to forging connections with vendors. We've found that the initial steps in relationship-building often involve offering our services at no cost. This gesture not only demonstrates our commitment but also provides an opportunity to showcase our capabilities. Seeking Reviews and Guidance: One of our strategies involves soliciting reviews from vendors with whom we've coll...
45. The Benefits of an Engagement Session
February 07, 2024 23:56 - 21 minutes - 29.7 MBWe're truly passionate about engagement sessions because we understand their significance and the impact they can have on your wedding day. Having an engagement session not only allows us to accomplish more together on the big day, but it also provides valuable insights into your preferences and comfort levels with various poses. For many couples, being in front of the camera as a duo can feel somewhat unnatural, which is why we emphasize this aspect on our website. If the thought of an eng...
44. What makes Grey Loft Studio different
February 06, 2024 15:00 - 33 minutes - 46.3 MBWe dive into the intricacies of establishing a distinctive presence as wedding photographers and videographers in a highly competitive field. Acknowledging the saturation of the photography market, we stress the need for differentiation to build a robust business strategy. We highlight the evolving nature of our own style, emphasizing the importance of finding one's unique artistic voice early in the career, even though it may undergo changes over time. We talk about the intrinsic creativit...
43. Trends for Couples Getting Married in 2024
February 05, 2024 15:00 - 28 minutes - 39.3 MBIn the evolving landscape of wedding trends for 2024, couples are embracing a more relaxed and personalized approach to their celebrations. A noticeable shift is observed with fewer family photos post-ceremony, allowing for a greater focus on candid and intimate moments. Prioritizing present experiences, couples are extending breaks in the schedule, starting the day earlier, and avoiding rushed timelines. To enhance guest engagement, there's a move towards capturing photos with each table, f...
42. Interviewing Couples at a Wedding Show
February 04, 2024 15:55 - 26 minutes - 37.1 MBErica Irwin, an Ottawa based Wedding Planner joins us on the podcast again to interview engaged couples at our local wedding show in January 2024. So much good information in this interview and you can clearly see how these Canadian engaged couples are navigating this new wedding reality. The number one thing that all couples were concerned about was pricing. Make sure to let us know what you think about this episode by commenting on our latest instagram post.
41. The Engagement Gap
February 03, 2024 16:00 - 23 minutes - 32.2 MBThe wedding industry is experiencing a slowdown in engagement ring sales, leading to fewer inquiries for wedding vendors. Signet Jewelers, the largest jewelry company in the US, reports a decline in engagement jewelry sales, attributing it to an "engagement gap." This gap is a result of pandemic-induced changes in relationships, with some couples progressing while others took breaks from dating. Wedding vendors have to hustle this year and cannot be shy to level up their social media prese...
40. The Rise of Wedding Content Creators
February 02, 2024 16:00 - 24 minutes - 33.4 MBWedding content creators have gained popularity in today's society, driven by a culture of instant gratification. Their appeal lies in their ability to provide immediate, engaging, and diverse content across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and more. As the demand for visual content continues to rise, the question arises of whether wedding photo/video services should offer content creation as an add-on. Comparing content creators to professional videographers reveals various pros and cons. ...
39. Say 'I Do' to Style: Top 2024 Wedding Trends!
February 02, 2024 03:42 - 22 minutes - 31.4 MBAre you planning a wedding for 2024 and want to stay ahead of the curve with the latest trends? Look no further! Our podcast dives into the top wedding trends for 2024, including everything from drone photos, audio guestbooks, and more. With expert insights, this podcast will inspire and guide you to create a wedding that is both timeless and on-trend. Discover the value of modern or minimalistic elements into your big day, as well as the rise of unique and personalized wedding experiences....
38. Get To Know Us
August 12, 2021 14:18 - 18 minutes - 16.8 MBFor this week's episode we wanted to do something a little different and share who Grey Loft Studio is. We dive into our personalities and interests that make us who we are! This was a super fun episode to record, tune in to learn more about us!
37. Tips For Shooting Your First Wedding
July 29, 2021 12:00 - 12 minutes - 11.4 MBShooting your very first wedding soon?! On this week's podcast we dive into the Top 5 MOST IMPORTANT wedding photography tips that you need to know before shooting your very first wedding! This is the most important advice we can give to anyone who's about to shoot their first wedding! Tune in to hear these tips that will help you as a beginner wedding photographer!
36. How To Book Clients Consistently
July 15, 2021 12:00 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MBAre you a photographer/ business owner? This one's for you! Booking clients consistently can be a real struggle to overcome for any photographer! It's all about the client experience. We're here to tell you how to perfect these three stages to successfully booking clients consistently!