When Stef married a farmer she didn't realise that owning a wedding venue would be on the cards. Having held her own wedding on the farm, she realised there was a huge opportunity to open up the farm to more couples. Now Stef runs a successful wedding venue and today she shares her story. We talk about the highs and lows of running a venue, the importance of business training and a training opportunity she has coming up in October! Join the training day on October 2nd at Bennetts Willow Barn. Use the code BECCA for a discount on your ticket Follow Bennetts Willow Barn Weddings on Instagram Time Stamps: Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00) Stef shares her thoughts on learning and the importance of attending paid events for growth. Stef's Background (00:00:53) Stef discusses her journey from solicitor to wedding venue owner and her personal wedding experience. Transition to Farming (00:01:43) Stef explains her decision to leave law due to family needs and her husband's farming career. Life on the Farm (00:04:47) A glimpse into the busy daily life of Stef's family on the farm and its demands. Starting the Wedding Venue (00:06:53) Stef recounts how her wedding led to opening the farm for other weddings and events. Diversification of the Farm (00:07:11) The initial diversification into glamping and the planning of their wedding venue. Building the Venue (00:09:07) Stef describes the construction of the yurt for their wedding and subsequent bookings. Creating a Unique Experience (00:10:13) The venue's laid-back approach and how it caters to couples' desires for personalization. Flexibility in Weddings (00:12:03) Stef emphasizes the importance of flexibility in wedding planning and making it personal. Highs and Lows of the Business (00:14:49) Stef reflects on the rewarding moments and challenges faced in the wedding industry. Relationships with Local Suppliers (00:17:43) Stef discusses the significance of networking with local suppliers and building strong partnerships. Tips for Suppliers (00:20:51) Stef offers advice on how local suppliers can approach venues and build rapport. Introduction to Supplier Relationships (00:20:58) Stef discusses the importance of genuine connections with suppliers rather than cold outreach. The Need for Training and Development (00:23:08) Stef emphasizes the necessity of training for informed decision-making in business. Understanding Business Numbers (00:24:29) Stef highlights how knowing business numbers is crucial for evaluating performance and making improvements. Upcoming Training Day Announcement (00:26:15) Becca announces her visit to Bennett's Willow Barn for a training day in October. Details of the Training Day (00:26:31) Stef outlines the schedule and topics for the interactive training day, including networking opportunities. Importance of Networking (00:28:56) Becca stresses the value of building relationships and networking within the wedding industry. Ticket Pricing and Discounts (00:30:28) Stef shares ticket prices for the training day and a discount code for listeners. Future Plans for Bennett's Willow Barn...