Welcome to Shoot The Veil, the podcast where Sam and Donny share their experiences and insights on growing successful wedding businesses. In this episode, they continue their three-part series on business growth and dive deeper into the topic of hiring staff. Sam and Donny emphasize the importance of knowing when to hire people and transitioning from freelance shooters to actual staff members. They discuss the benefits of having employees on W-2 contracts, providing the freedom of mind and a consistent second shooter who becomes an integral part of the team. They highlight the value of a second shooter who is trained and familiar with the photographer's style, allowing the business owner to focus on other important aspects of the wedding day. By having a dedicated second shooter, the owner can trust that their brand is being represented and that the team can handle various responsibilities, such as capturing different angles and moments. The hosts share their experiences of hiring staff and provide practical advice for those considering this step. They suggest starting with a consistent second shooter who can gradually take on additional tasks, such as editing, during weekdays. By providing a steady workload and a decent salary, the business owner can attract talented individuals who may be working part-time jobs or seeking a means to an end. Sam and Donny discuss the financial aspect of hiring, emphasizing the benefits of offering a salary rather than hourly pay. They explain that a consistent schedule and clear commitment to the business can be appealing to potential hires, as it provides stability and allows them to grow alongside the business. They also share their perspective on when it makes sense to hire staff, suggesting that having more than ten weddings a year is a good indication. With consistent wedding bookings, having a dedicated team member becomes a logical and valuable investment. Join Sam and Donny as they explore the advanced stage of business growth and discuss the benefits of hiring staff to support and expand your wedding business. Discover how bringing on dedicated team members can provide freedom of mind, enhance your brand, and ultimately contribute to your business's success.