The full course will be 13 lessons, but the "early bird" version running August-November 2023 will have six packed lessons. Everything will be pre-recorded so you can watch the videos and read through the materials around your own schedule. This 2023 version will also include several Q&A Zoom calls so you can ask questions with some of the high-producing DWHSA members who're helping us create this course. Here's the full 2023 schedule (approx. one lesson every three weeks):

Finding the Best Prospects for Destination Weddings (Friday, Aug. 4)

We'll review the needs, demographics, and marketing patterns of the major segments of DW couples: Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Zers. Then, we'll drill down and identify what your ideal DW client types look like - and where you can find them in your market area.

Setting Up Your DW Workflow (Week of Aug. 28)

We'll outline the typical planning timeline for a DW broken down over a 12-month period (from initial contact through departure). Then, we'll help you create your "system" for handling these tasks using tools such as your CRM, online forms, wedding web sites, and Facebook groups.

Building Your Reputation as a DW Specialist (Week of Sept. 18)

We'll go beyond wedding shows to show you how successful members brand themselves in this niche with their web sites (we'll give you steps to follow to upgrade the pages on your site and use elements such as landing pages and lead magnets to attract DW couples). Then, we'll tackle social media (focusing on your Facebook Business Page, your Instagram account, and FB groups for your DW couples, as well as other tools such as your Google Business Profile). In addition to the prerecorded lessons, we'll schedule Zoom calls so you can actually work on your site and your social media in small groups.

Nurturing DW Leads and Onboarding New Couples (Week of Oct. 9)

We'll help you create welcome site pages and "autoresponder" emails to keep DW leads engaged so you don't lose them. Then, we'll review best practices (post pandemic) for consultations and proposals, we'll go through client agreements (with clauses you need specifically for DWs), and we'll discuss your service and planning fees for these trips.

Working With Your DW Suppliers (Week of Oct. 30)

We'll discuss the best ways to handle quote requests with your preferred wholesalers, resort companies, and cruise lines. Next, we'll show you what's critical in your clients' wedding date and group room block contracts (including "red flags" to watch for) and how you should set up deposits and payments with the couples and their guests. Finally, we'll help you manage the relationships between your couples and the on-site wedding coordinators.

Creating Strong Relationships With the DW Guests (Week of Nov. 20)

We'll show you the best DW trip information and booking procedures with the couples' guests - as well as the steps you should take to communicate with them to keep them engaged and manage their expectations between deposits and departures.

You'll have password-protected access to these six modules (all videos, handouts, and materials) through Dec. 31, 2024.