Official Statement Association of Bridal Consultants and “ABC Wedding Travel”

I hope this message finds you well. We wanted to take a moment to provide some clarity regarding the recent changes and distinction between the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) and the entity operating as “ABC Wedding Travel.”

As of Jan 1, 2024, ABC is wholly owned by Veronica Foster and has no relationship with “ABC Wedding Travel” operated by David Wood and no relationship with any bookings owned and operated by David Wood.

What is “ABC Wedding Travel?”:

As many of you are aware, “ABC Wedding Travel” was founded by David Wood, who was the previous owner of ABC. While we share a history, it’s important to emphasize that ABC and “ABC Wedding Travel” now operate as two distinct and separate entities.

“ABC Wedding Travel operates” independently of ABC and offers travel services.

Any services or agreements from “ABC Wedding Travel" are INDEPENDENT and outside the purview of ABC membership benefits and licenses.

What does this mean for you as an ABC member?

• Be aware of how you make/made your bookings

  • Specifically which IATA # was used to make the booking(s)

• Although ABC is doing its best to assist members who have bookings, and help facilitate any payments processed through ABC’s office under IATA IATA # 077*****, ultimately those bookings are under the jurisdiction of “ABC Wedding Travel”

• Any concerns about the following items concerning bookings under IATA # 077***** must be directed to “ABC Wedding Travel”:

  • Commission Checks

  • Commission Payout rates

  • Marketing Bank earnings and eligibility

  • Seller of Travel Licenses as required for those selling travel to CA, FL, etc

  • 1099’s as required by the IRS for commissions earned over $600 cumulatively in a calendar year

What does booking Travel with the Association of Bridal Consultants Offer?

REQUIRED Legal Compliance :

• Seller of Travel Licenses

  • California

  • Florida

  • Hawaii

  • With more to come!

• 1099’s issued as required by the IRS for anyone earning more than $600 in a calendar year

• Systematic tracking of:

  • Each individuals sales, to:

  • Qualify for IATA cards or other industry benefits

  • Make Commission Payments faster and more efficiently

  • Generate Sales Qualifiers for supplier FAM trip opportunities

  • Each individuals “Marketing Bank” earnings

ENHANCED Focus on Education & Networking:

• ABC remains fully committed to serving our community of wedding and event professionals. Our focus is on providing education, resources, and networking opportunities tailored to wedding planners, industry professionals, and partner vendors.  

• Passport to Profits: Travel Advisor Training Course

  • A comprehensive course navigating all legal requirements and best practices to operate a business promoting travel and room blocks

• (2) Travel-focused education offerings per month

  • Travel Industry Specific Education

  • Presentations directly from out 20+ Partner Travel Suppliers

ENHANCED Partnerships:

• 20+ Partner Travel Suppliers

  • Resort families and Brands

  • Tourism Boards and Destination Specialty Programs

  • Cruise Lines

  • Tour Operators and more!

• Industry Partners

  • Travel Industry Solutions - for all of you contract and legal needs

  • TeSS - a robust CRM and payment processing software

  • Access to any credible Travel Supplier or Property across the globe!

ENHANCED Room Blocks & US Sales Commissions

• A streamlined system for logging your bookings and getting paid faster!

• Increased Flat rate 85% Commission on all US Bookings

• Easier Quick Start Guide and Updated Room Block Invoice

• Dedicated ABC US Group Sales Manager

ENHANCED Commission Payouts:

• “We pay more and faster!”

• Checks are sent out from ABC usually within less than 7 days of receipt

• Industry Standard Commission Rates, with ability to increase your earning rate as your production grows

ENHANCED TA Benefits: 

• Opportunity for FAM Trips

• Eligibility to earn your IATA card

• Verification Letter to provide in place of an IATA Card for:

  • Industry Discounted Rates

  • TA Perks and Promotions

  • Day Passes and Site Inspections

  • Entrance to Travel Industry Events

We believe that clear notification of this division allows both ABC and "ABC Wedding Travel” to focus on their respective strengths, while ABC is ensuring that our members continue to receive the highest quality resources, support, and opportunities that directly benefit their careers and families.

We hope this clears up any confusion and reinforces our commitment to you as an ABC member. Should you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for your continued support of ABC! We are happy to be offering more benefits to our members year after year!

Warm regards,
Veronica M. Foster, MWP
President, Association of Bridal Consultants