So, you just started your wedding planning business (congrats!). Or maybe you’re dreaming about it, wrapping your tulle-wrapped mind around timelines, contracts, and seating charts. Listen, friend, whether you’re knee-deep in color swatches or bravely staring at a blank business plan, one thing’s true: every great wedding planner needs inspiration, guidance, and a touch of that boss-babe mindset magic.

Luckily, I’ve rounded up my all-time-favorite podcasts, books, and YouTube channels that have helped me and countless other planners grow, thrive, and keep our sense of humor (most days, anyway). These aren’t just resources, they’re like your business besties, ready to drop wisdom and pep-talks whenever you need them.

Ready? Grab your giant latte, and prepare to be inspired!

This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you). I always only recommend stuff I truly love! See my Amazon Store for a full list.

Why Mindset Matters for Wedding Planners

Before we dive into my resource list, let’s start with mindset.

Starting and growing a wedding planning business isn’t just about perfecting timelines or learning to fold napkins. It’s about believing you can do big things, building habits that support your vision, and remembering that, yes, you belong in the room.

Here’s what I’ve learned: The right mindset helps you show up with confidence, push past “imposter syndrome,” handle tricky clients, and trust yourself when you’re building something new. Spoiler alert: You won’t always feel ready. That’s what the podcasts, books, and pep talks are for.

So, let’s find you some mindset magic!

Best Books for New Wedding & Event Planners

Some books change your business. Others? They change your whole outlook. Here are my go-to reads that every new wedding or event planner (heck, anyone in the creative world) should have on their nightstand or Kindle:

1. Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara

If you’re obsessed with creating memorable client experiences (I mean, it’s kind of our thing as wedding planners), this book is for you. Will Guidara, the mastermind behind Eleven Madison Park, shares how “over-the-top” hospitality transforms businesses and lives. I seriously couldn’t put this book down. I read it super slowly because I didn’t want it to end…it was that good!

What you’ll learn: How to deliver service clients rave about, why details matter, and how “going the extra mile” pays off—plus, behind-the-scenes stories from a world-class restaurateur.

2. We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers

Mindset? Check. Money confidence? Double check. Rachel Rodgers is here to shake up how you think about business, money, and your worth. This book genuinely shifted how I set goals and charge for my services. This book really hit home because she approaches money is a non-threatening way and teaches you that you are worthy of making millions!

What you’ll learn: Building wealth as a woman, breaking through “bro” business advice, and why your dreams matter (spoiler: you deserve it all!).

3. 10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy

Okay, the title sounds wild, but hear me out: This book will rewire your business brain! Instead of working twice as hard for small gains, what if you made a massive leap and changed everything? Dan and Dr. Hardy walk you through why “BIG thinking” actually makes things EASIER.

What you’ll learn: How to set big goals, stop micromanaging yourself, and scale your planning biz in a way that feels doable (and, dare I say…fun?).

Must-Listen Podcasts for Wedding Pros

Who needs a business coach on speed-dial when you’ve got these goldmine podcasts in your earbuds? These are perfect for commutes, coffee breaks, or while you’re prepping welcome bags at midnight.

1. Just Another Biz Podcast

I might be biased (full disclosure: I love being a co-host here!), but this one’s a gem. If you’re looking for real talk about weddings, business, and all the juicy how-to details, this is it.

Why it rocks: Unconventional advice, fresh industry news, and ideas you can use right now. It’s like hanging out with your planning crew…without leaving your living room.

2. The Vendor Table Pod

New planner or photographer? You NEED to know what’s happening in the wedding world. The Vendor Table is where pros spill all: client stories, industry shifts, vendor relationships, and oh-so-much more.

Listen for: Vendor tips, event horror stories (for solidarity!), creative inspiration, and community vibes. This podcast gets a little spicy at times!

3. Event: Crushed for Wedding Pros by Becky Hart

This podcast is a must for event pros who are ready to grow their brand, refine their client experience, and keep loving their craft.

Why tune in: Real-life advice from established planners, mistakes (and lessons!) shared, and practical business growth gems.

4. Sara does SEO Podcast

While this isn't a podcast about how to start your wedding planning business, this is a very important one for all wedding pros. Sara Dunn, the guru of all things SEO, finally has a podcast where she teaches wedding professionals how to up their SEO game and attract their ideal clients!

Why we listen: Because Sara is the queen of seo and everything she says works!

Bonus Tip: Hit “subscribe” on all Four and rotate depending on what you need that day: motivation, strategy, or a little commiseration.

YouTube Channels to Bookmark

If you’re more of a “visual learner” (or you want to see behind-the-scenes chaos in REAL time), YouTube is your best friend. Here are my favorites:

1. Gabby Pinkerton (That’s Me!)

Yes, I have to mention my own channel, because I share all the wedding planner behind-the-scenes, plus tips on pricing, contracts, client relations, and keeping your passion alive. Come hang out for weekly doses of knowledge and laughter.

2. Erin On Demand

Entrepreneurship isn’t just for wedding pros! Erin On Demand dishes practical advice for creative business owners, and her “Millionaire in a year” series is binge-worthy for any entrepreneur.

Why I love her: She’s honest, motivating, and has a knack for turning scary business stuff into actionable steps. If you need a pep-talk with your business plan, Erin’s your gal.

Fun fact: a few years ago, I went IN her membership group and taught them a Pinterest course live!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I have to read/listen to everything to be a successful planner?

Nope! Pick a couple that spark your curiosity. The point is to find inspiration that fits you (and your current stage).

Q: Are these resources helpful if I’m just starting out?

Absolutely. They’re tailored for beginners but even seasoned planners discover new ideas (or reminders) in them.

Q: What If I want to do more 1:1 coaching?

I actually offer some “pick my brain” sessions where we can deep-dive into some business challenges you’re having, wedding situations or whatever else is on your mind!

Final Thoughts: Keep Learning, Keep Dreaming!

Here’s my best advice for anyone starting out (or leveling up) as a wedding planner: You never “arrive.” The best planners I know are always learning, growing, and finding new ways to wow their couples and themselves.

Let these books, podcasts, and channels become your support system. Let them challenge you, make you laugh, and remind you why you started. This business is all heart, a little bit of hustle, and a whole lot of belief in yourself.

You got this. And if you need a cheerleader, you know where to find me!

XO Gabby

The Best Podcasts and Books for New Wedding & Event Planners

Table of Contents

Why Mindset Matters for Wedding Planners

Best Books for New Wedding & Event Planners

1. Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara

2. We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers

3. 10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy