Et Voila

This week, Cristy and Isabelle are joined by Andrea Eppolito for a refreshing and honest conversation. In this episode, Andrea discusses her journey into the wedding planning industry, her breakthrough into the luxury market, and where her career will take her next. 

In this episode, hosts Isabelle and Cristy pull back the curtain on the financial reality wedding vendors face, and highlight the behind-the-scenes labor, tailored curation, years of expertise, and emotional and physical management that go into a successful event. They discuss income diversification and how to plan for uncertain times, rising prices, and uncontrollable events.   

Hosts Cristy Fernandez and Isabelle Kline respond to a viral Reddit Post regarding Big Budget Brides (BBB) and discuss the prices seen in the wedding industry. They discuss the rationale behind pricing in the event planning industry. From client priorities to the industry’s lack of regulation, the episode offers an insightful and reflective discussion that sheds light on how the business really works.

Hosts Cristy Fernandez and Isabelle Kline speak with guest Steve Moore, founder of Sinclair and Moore, discussing balancing work and family in the wedding and event planning industry. Steve shares insights into maintaining boundaries, understanding priorities, and the importance of taking calculated risks for personal and business growth. Also discussed are Steve's sabbatical, inspirations for his creative work, and his approach to collaboration with vendors. Finally, they touch on the significance of relaxing and trusting the journey in both personal and professional life.

In this episode of Et Voila, hosts Cristy Fernandez and Isabelle Kline delve into the world of destination weddings, focusing on Italy as a prime destination. The episode features an interview with Camelia Lambru, a pivotal figure in the global wedding and events industry, who shares insights on the unique cultural nuances and logistical considerations involved in planning a wedding in Italy. They discuss the importance of collaborating with local vendors to ensure a seamless experience, highlighting the economic growth and international allure of the Italian wedding market. The conversation also touches on Camelia's initiatives to bridge the gap between Italian and American wedding industries, fostering deeper connections and understanding.

In this heartfelt episode, hosts Cristy and Isabelle welcome photographer and mindfulness coach Gurminder Banga to discuss his journey of self-discovery, healing, and the intersection of wellness with the wedding/events industry. He shares how practices like meditation, breathwork, and deep personal accountability transformed his life, leading to powerful moments of emotional reconnection and renewed purpose. Gurminder also opens up about overcoming setbacks, including training for an Ironman, and encourages professionals to realign with their “why,” build lasting habits, and prioritize authenticity over comparison. His book Better Habits and soul care community provide tools for mindful living and personal growth.

In this podcast episode, hosts Cristy Fernandez and Isabelle Kline engage in a conversation with Cindy Novotny, an influential figure in the hospitality and travel industry. With a focus on wedding and event professionals, Cindy shares her experiences and insights on topics such as the importance of perceiving beyond appearances, the pressures of imposter syndrome, and strategies for growth in the face of economic challenges. The episode highlights the value of demonstrating passion in one's work, building genuine client relationships, and the significance of self-reflection in recognizing one's accomplishments and value.

In this episode, hosts Cristy Fernandez and Isabelle Kline share their journeys in the wedding and event industry, discussing challenges like economic recessions and personal hardships that shaped their careers. They explore resilience, reinvention, and the realities of the industry while emphasizing balance, teamwork, and lifelong learning in this honest and heartfelt conversation.