The Preferred Vendor Podcast
The Preferred Vendor Podcast
Kayland Partee
Welcome to the Preferred Vendor Podcast, hosted by the knowledgeable and charismatic Kayland Partee. This podcast is your ultimate guide to discovering the best vendors in various industries, as well as gaining valuable insights into their expertise and services.Join Kayland as she interviews top professionals across a range of fields, including wedding planning, event management, photography, catering, interior design, and more. Through engaging conversations, she uncovers the secrets to their success, their unique approaches, and the behind-the-scenes stories that make them preferred choices in their respective industries.Whether you're planning a special event, renovating your home, or simply seeking exceptional services, the Preferred Vendor Podcast is your go-to resource for finding trusted and talented experts. Kayland's warm and inviting style creates a comfortable space for vendors to share their knowledge, recommendations, and insider tips, ensuring that you receive the best advice and guidance for your upcoming projects.
Behind the Turntables: Venturing into DJ Rafe's World
Have you ever wondered how the DJing industry works from the inside? How about the thrill of traveling to exotic places like Tulum, Vegas, and Florida? We got you covered! Join us as we chat with our special guest, the prolific Dj Rafe. We kick-start with an engaging discussion about his love for exploring the world, the heritage of travel, and the remarkable experiences he's had along the way. He also reveals his top pick for dining - Taboo, renowned for its unique ambiance.The conversation takes an exciting turn as we journey through the evolving cityscape of Jackson, Mississippi. We uncover its emerging entrepreneurial spirit and the intricacies of the DJing industry. But how does one stand out in a city where trends are quickly replicated? Dj Rafe sheds light on this and more, including insightful stories about wedding planning, the need for professional coordination and communication, and the changing face of Wedding DJs. His perspective on these topics is a treasure trove of invaluable insights that you don't want to miss.Towards the finale of our conversation, we delve into the importance of building industry relationships, maintaining personal success, and the significance of vendor research. Dj Rave illuminates the relevance of recognition in the DJ scene, the potential of networking, and the creation of a robust customer base. We wrap up with a discussion on forging lasting memories at weddings, the role of videography, and photography. So, buckle up and tune in for an exhilarating ride into the world of DJing, travel, and entrepreneurship, filled with practical advice from a seasoned specialist.Support the show
Sep 13, 2023
1 hr 34 min
All About Weddings: Expert Advice from Planner Lauren Messina
On this episode, prepare to be dazzled by the wisdom and insights of acclaimed wedding planner Lauren Messina. Lauren opens up about the delicate art of wedding planning, the crucial differences between planning, coordinating, and event planning, and the pivotal role of experience in this industry. Guiding us through the ins and outs of organizing a successful wedding, Lauren shares tips on establishing a clear list of elements for the big day, setting a realistic budget, and navigating the quest for the perfect venue. We also discuss the unique challenges of wedding venues, their maintenance, the virtues of creativity, and the intricacies of running a successful venue. Join us as we uncover the realities of transitioning between venues and the significant role of logistics and transportation to ensure a seamless, memorable wedding day.Finally, we dive into an exciting exploration of the wedding industry in Mississippi, shedding light on the average wedding budget, key factors to consider, and the regrettable repercussions of not hiring professional photographers and videographers. We discuss the significance of selecting the right DJ or band and touch on the ever-evolving DJ and band scenario in Mississippi. Wrapping up with invaluable advice from Lauren on how to savor and plan a wedding effectively, we promise an episode filled with practical tips, vendor recommendations, and a wealth of insights drawn from Lauren's extensive experience. Don't miss this exciting journey into the world of wedding planning!Support the show
Sep 5, 2023
1 hr 3 min
From Humble Beginnings to Cigar Mastery: The Story of Chief
Looking for a unique touch to add to your wedding? Chief of Jackson, Mississippi’s only cigar maker and tobacconist at the Country's Squire, has the answer, Cigar Parties! In the episode, Chief shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a boutique cigar designer with Satoria Tobacco, a brand that is now making waves in the cigar world across 14 countries and 42 states. Get ready to unravel the mystique of cigars as Chief dispels myths, discusses the changing dynamics of the industry and reveals the meticulous process behind creating custom blends.One of the most exciting insights in this episode is the increasing role women play in the cigar industry. Women, once considered outliers, are now dominating various aspects of the industry, from cigar manufacture to the creation of unforgettable moments through cigar parties. Learn about the women making their mark, like Octavia, the founder of Atlanta Cigar Week. You will also get a peek into Chief's thoughts on fashion, personal style and how dressing well is a form of self-respect.In the last part of our episode, Chief takes us through the significance of authenticity, being a team player, and the importance of cultural representation in the journey to success. He delves into his reflections on legacy, celebrating success, and the significance of passing on resources and knowledge to future generations. As we wrap up, we pay tribute to Smiley Man - a Jackson, Mississippi legend, who left an unforgettable impact on Chief's life. Tune in to hear all this and more in this engaging conversation with Chief.Support the show
Jul 29, 2023
1 hr 25 min
Balancing Love, Family, and Entrepreneurship: A Conversation with Victoria and Ken McDonald
Have you ever wondered what it's like to juggle marriage, parenthood and entrepreneurship? We sat down with Victoria and Ken McDonald, the power couple behind a thriving custom suit brand, to discuss how they navigate these complex roles with grace and commitment. They open up about their unconventional wedding, the importance of making a great first impression, and the joys of designing custom suits. Adding another layer to the conversation, Ken, sheds a light on the art of effective communication in a relationship and the importance of allowing each partner to chase their dreams. Tune in to this episode for insights on the balance between old and new parenting methods, the dynamics of a three-spouse relationship, and strategies for finding that elusive work-family balance. The couple also provides a peek into their financial strategies, including the critical art of budget management post-kids. We explore their decision to move back to Jackson, Mississippi, and the implications that entailed. Wrapping up the conversation, we delve into the significance of individuality within a marriage and the delicate balance between unity and maintaining separate lives. Join us for a lively, insightful conversation that not only entertains but also leaves you with valuable lessons on life, love, family, and business.Support the show
Jul 20, 2023
1 hr 17 min
From High School Sweethearts to Homeowners: A Newlywed Adventure
What if you had a front-row seat to the candid, heartfelt, and sometimes hilarious journey of two newlyweds navigating their way through wedding planning, family drama, and house hunting? Join us for an unforgettable chat with Allea + Will  Sheriff, a delightful duo who share their tale of love, from high school sweethearts to happily married homeowners. In the midst of navigating a complex wedding dress debacle, managing an impressive guest list of 350, and carefully balancing family traditions with their own desires, they have plenty of wisdom, laughter, and love to share.Step into the whirlwind of Allea + Will Sheriff's wedding experience, complete with the decision to get dressed at an Airbnb and the role that timing played in creating a picture-perfect ambiance. From the complexities of the dress that led to a slight delay in the ceremony to the pressure of managing a vintage Cinderella themed reception for 350 guests, this lively pair gives us a real insight into the hustle and bustle of wedding planning. As they share their day's highs and lows, they also reveal the importance of having the dress designer present on the big day, a tip that future brides might find particularly useful.That's not all! As the confetti settles, Allea + Will Sheriff take us through their exciting journey of selecting and settling into their first home together. They discuss the challenges, excitement, and emotions of transitioning from being engaged to being married, while also reflecting on the values and traditions that influenced their decision to not live together before tying the knot. Whether you're a couple planning your wedding, on the hunt for your dream home, or just eager to hear a heartwarming love story, this episode will have you hooked. So tune in, sit back, and enjoy the conversation!Support the show
Jul 20, 2023
1 hr 24 min
From Fire Service to Wedding Service: An Entrepreneurial Journey with Andrew of FireLens
When it comes to turning passion into a thriving business, no one knows it better than  Andrew of FireLenz. Together with his wife, they embarked on an adventurous journey from the fire service and nursing to successful entrepreneurs. They even made a daring leap by relocating to Las Vegas to kick-start their business with the purchase of a photo booth. Join us as we dig deep into their inspiring narrative, and the precious lessons they've picked up along the way, including balancing entrepreneurship with raising a family.So, ever found yourself lost in the labyrinth of wedding planning? Well, we've got your back! Drew, with his extensive experience in wedding photography, spills the beans on how to nail the perfect wedding. Discover why planning ahead, a good coordinator, the right wedding party, and matching your venue to your envisioned images can be game-changers. But that's not all; we also explore the advantages that come with a 'first look'.But weddings are not just about the planning and the party - they're also about capturing those once-in-a-lifetime moments. Drew gives us a peek into the unique world of wedding photography and videography. Learn from his unique perspective on the pressures that come with shooting a wedding - it's not the same as a studio shoot, folks! And remember, it's not just about stunning pictures and videos - Drew emphasizes the importance of investing in a good DJ, venue, and food. Plus, the significance of capturing the memories on video cannot be overstated. So, gear up for an engaging conversation filled with invaluable insights and tips from Drew.Support the show
Jul 15, 2023
47 min