Are you full of creative ideas but struggle to execute and grow your wedding business? In this episode of The Level Up Podcast, hosts Taylor Petrinovich and Kelley Gilster sit down with Austin Trenholm to discuss the key differences between successful #entrepreneurs and those stuck in the idea phase.
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Ideas vs. Execution: How to Take Your Wedding Business to the Next Level
Building a successful wedding business requires more than just great ideas. Execution is the key differentiator between those who dream and those who achieve. Whether you’re aiming to break into the luxury market or launch a new revenue stream, these takeaways will help you execute your goals with confidence.
1. The Difference Between Entrepreneurs and “Wantrepreneurs”
Many creatives have brilliant ideas, but only a few take the steps necessary to turn those ideas into reality. As entrepreneur Tony Robbins puts it, “There are entrepreneurs, and there are ‘wantrepreneurs.’” True entrepreneurs understand that execution requires work, consistency, and persistence, while “wantrepreneurs” get stuck in endless brainstorming without real action.
To make the leap from dreamer to doer:
- Break down your idea into actionable steps.
- Set deadlines to hold yourself accountable.
- Recognize that execution isn’t always glamorous but is necessary for success.
2. Overcoming Perfectionism to Take Action
One of the biggest roadblocks to execution is perfectionism. Many wedding professionals believe they need to have everything perfectly mapped out before taking the first step. However, waiting for the perfect moment often results in never starting at all.
Instead of striving for perfection, focus on progress:
- Take small, consistent actions every day.
- Accept that mistakes and adjustments are part of the process.
- Remind yourself that even the most successful businesses started with trial and error.
3. The Importance of an Accountability Partner
Going at it alone can be challenging. Having an accountability partner can significantly increase your chances of following through with your plans. Whether it’s a fellow photographer, a mentor, or a mastermind group, surrounding yourself with like-minded professionals will help keep you on track.
Ways to find accountability:
- Join a community of wedding professionals.
- Participate in industry events or workshops.
- Partner with a business coach or mentor who can guide your progress.
4. Make Execution Feel Real with Financial Commitment
Nothing makes an idea feel more real than putting money behind it. Investing in your business, whether it’s securing a domain, hiring a coach, or attending a conference, creates a sense of urgency and responsibility.
Financial commitments that drive action:
- Register your business or create a website.
- Invest in tools or resources that will help you succeed.
- Enroll in an industry course or mastermind group to deepen your expertise.
5. Reframing Execution as an Exciting Challenge
Starting something new can feel intimidating, but it helps to reframe it as an exciting challenge rather than a daunting task. Many entrepreneurs thrive on the thrill of new ventures—whether it’s launching a new service, entering the luxury market, or expanding their brand.
To stay motivated:
- Shift your mindset from fear to excitement.
- Celebrate small wins along the way.
- Remind yourself of the opportunities that come with growth.
6. Break Down Goals into Manageable Steps
Big goals can feel overwhelming. Instead of focusing on the entire mountain, break it down into small, manageable steps. The 12-Week Year approach, for example, encourages setting goals in 12-week increments rather than planning an entire year at once.
How to implement this method:
- Set a 12-week goal instead of a year-long resolution.
- Break it into monthly and weekly milestones.
- Focus on daily actions that lead to long-term results.
7. Execution Requires Discipline, Not Just Motivation
Motivation is fleeting. Discipline and consistency are what truly drive long-term success. Wedding professionals who rely solely on feeling “inspired” will struggle to stay on track, whereas those who commit to a disciplined routine will see progress even on tough days.
Ways to stay disciplined:
- Set non-negotiable work habits (e.g., marketing every Monday, client outreach every Thursday).
- Develop a morning routine that sets a productive tone for the day.
- Remove distractions and create an environment conducive to focus.
8. Learning to Love the Plateau
Not every phase of your business will feel exciting. Sometimes, you’ll hit a plateau where things seem stagnant. Instead of viewing this as a failure, see it as an opportunity to refine your craft, reassess goals, and build long-term stability.
Tips for staying engaged during slow periods:
- Use downtime to improve skills or rebrand.
- Work on backend business operations like SEO or client experience.
- Experiment with new marketing strategies or content creation.
9. Surround Yourself with People Who Challenge You
Your environment has a significant impact on your success. Being around high-achievers in the wedding industry will naturally elevate your mindset and business approach. Whether it’s through networking, mentorship, or online communities, surrounding yourself with the right people is crucial.
How to create a high-achieving circle:
- Attend luxury wedding industry events like Kinetic Experiences.
- Join mastermind groups or business coaching programs.
- Follow and learn from industry leaders through podcasts, courses, and social media.
10. The Hard Truth: Pick Your Hard
One of the most powerful takeaways from the podcast was the idea that everything is hard—but you get to choose which hard you endure.
- Building a successful business is hard. Struggling financially is also hard.
- Raising your prices is hard. Undervaluing yourself and staying overworked is also hard.
- Learning new skills is hard. Staying stuck in the same place is also hard.
Success isn’t about avoiding difficulty—it’s about choosing the challenges that lead to long-term fulfillment.
Final Thoughts: Start Before You’re Ready
If you take one thing away from this episode, let it be this: Start before you’re ready. You don’t need a perfect plan. You don’t need everything figured out. What matters most is taking that first step. The momentum you build will carry you forward.
Are you ready to take your wedding business to the next level? Start executing today. Whether it’s joining our mastermind, launching a new service, or pushing your marketing strategy, the time to act is now.
For more expert insights, tune into The Level Up Podcast and connect with a community of wedding professionals ready to support your journey!
