Shoot the Vows

Nobody's planning their wedding thinking about insurance — but maybe they should be. In this episode, we sit down with local Allstate agent Jon Gruenewald to break down everything you need to know about event insurance. What does it actually cover? When should you get it? And what about insuring your ring? Jon clears up the most common misconceptions so you can protect your day (and your investmen...

Cocktail hour sounds simple enough — some appetizers, a signature drink, maybe a lawn game or two. But there's actually a lot going on behind the scenes (especially for the couple), and a few easy mistakes that can throw off the whole vibe. In this episode, we're breaking down everything cocktail hour — from how long it should actually be, to what you should be doing during it (hint: it's not just...

What would a couple actually change about their wedding if they could do it all over? In this episode, we sit down with past clients Sahra and Bill for an honest Q&A about their wedding experience—the stuff they loved, the things they regret, and the one disaster that almost derailed the day. We're covering: → What they wish they knew before planning → Regrets (and what they'd do differently) → Th...

Your ceremony is the heart of your wedding day, so let's make sure it feels right. In this episode, we're breaking down all the big ceremony decisions — from what you say to who's standing up there with you. What you'll learn: 💍 The pros and cons of sharing personal vows with guests vs. saving them for just the two of you ✍️ Tips for writing your own wedding vows (and when traditional vows might...

Trying to figure out when to start wedding dress shopping? Wondering what to expect at your first bridal appointment? In this episode, we sit down with Marie Adornato, owner of Spy Baby Bridal and Prom in Syracuse, NY and designer behind Adornato Couture, to get all her insider tips for brides navigating the gown shopping experience. In this episode, we cover: ⏰ The ideal shopping and shipping ti...

This week on Shoot the Vows, we're diving into some juicy Reddit wedding drama! From planning nightmares to guest dress code disasters, we're breaking down three viral stories and giving our honest takes. In this episode: 🔥 "What I wish I knew before planning a wedding" — the realities no one warns you about 🔥 "AITA for wanting to plan MY wedding?" — when family opinions go too far 🔥 "Wedding S...

Thinking about a barn or ranch wedding in Central New York? In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Ridley from Nunda Ranch to talk about what couples really need to know before booking a rustic venue.   Nicole shares insider tips on what sets barn and ranch venues apart from traditional spaces, the questions you should be asking on every venue tour, and what's typically included versus what you'...

Planning a wedding on a budget? You're not alone—and you don't have to figure it all out by yourself. In this episode, we sit down with real bride Jessica Edkin to get her honest take on what she'd do differently and what she'd absolutely do again. From DIY wins (and fails) to splurges that were totally worth it, Jessica shares the lessons she learned so you don't have to learn them the hard way....

Just got engaged? Congrats! 💍 Before you spiral into Pinterest boards and venue tours, take a breath. In this episode, we're breaking down everything you need to know about navigating engagement season (December–February) without losing your mind. We cover: → What to do first after getting engaged (and what can wait) → The urge to book everything NOW — when to pump the brakes → Dealing with unsol...

Did you know your vendor could legally cancel on you the week of your wedding—and only owe you a refund? 😳 In this episode, we sat down with Leah Weinberg, founder and attorney at Weinberg Legal, for our first-ever live in-person podcast recording in New York City! Leah has an incredible backstory—she started as an attorney, spent almost 10 years as a wedding planner, and has now returned to law...

Your wedding day isn't just about you—it's about everyone who showed up to celebrate. In this episode, we're diving deep into the guest experience and what actually makes people remember your wedding for all the right reasons. From avoiding that awkward cocktail hour lull to designing seating charts that don't leave Aunt Carol at the "table of randos," we're covering everything you need to know to...

Running behind on your wedding day? It usually starts in the hair & makeup chair. 💄 In this episode, we sit down with Kaylee Styer, owner and hair stylist/makeup artist at The Beauty Stop, to talk about everything brides need to know about wedding day glam — from choosing the right artist to keeping your timeline on track. We're covering: ✨ What to actually look for when hiring your hair & makeu...

Ever wonder why some couples look SO natural in their wedding photos while others seem stiff and uncomfortable? The secret isn't posing tricks—it's CONNECTION. In this episode, we're diving deep into why the relationship you have with your wedding photographer matters just as much as their portfolio. From what "friend-vibe" photographers do differently on your big day to how you can vibe-check a p...

🎙️ Listen to Shoot the Vows: shootthevows.com 💍 Book Heather at Root & Rise Occasion: https://www.weddingwire.com/biz/root-rise-occasion/77afffd845d072d0.html 📸 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/shootthevows 💬 Leave us a comment with your wedding planning questions! Do You Actually Need a Wedding Coordinator? | Shoot the Vows Episode 6 Thinking about skipping a wedding coordinator to save m...

Planning your wedding day timeline can feel like A LOT — but in this episode of Shoot the Vows, we're breaking it down into simple, stress-free steps you can actually follow. We dive into: • The real reasons wedding timelines run late (and how to avoid it) • How to build buffer time that keeps the whole day on track • Scheduling detail photos, first looks, and family portraits efficiently • How li...

🎧 Listen to Shoot the Vows on your favorite platform: YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@ShootTheVows Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shoot-the-vows/id1850468898 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/5gdQT05rvXeV4dc9cUBSaz 📲 Follow us for more wedding tips & behind-the-scenes moments: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/shootthevows/ Facebook → https://www.facebook.com...

In this episode of Shoot the Vows, we're sharing how we became wedding photographers, the story behind our new podcast, and everything we pack for a stress-free wedding day. Whether you're a bride, groom, or photographer, you'll learn tips to help you prepare for anything! ⏰ New episodes drop every Thursday at 10 AM EST 💍 Subscribe so you never miss an episode about planning, photography, and al...

Your DJ can make or break your wedding — and we've seen it all. In this episode of Shoot the Vows , we're joined by Kirk Rothrum from Select Receptions , one of Central New York's most experienced wedding DJs. He shares his top tips to help you avoid a DJ disaster , keep your dance floor full, and make your reception unforgettable. 💡 We cover: • Why your DJ matters more than you think • Red flags...

To first look or not to first look? That's the question every couple asks when planning their wedding day — and we're breaking it all down. In this episode of Shoot the Vows , Caitlyn and Kalee share the pros and cons of doing a first look , how it affects your timeline and emotions , and creative alternatives if you want to keep the traditional aisle moment. 💡 We cover: • The biggest benefits of...

🎉 The countdown is on! Shoot the Vows — the podcast for all things wedding — officially launches November 3rd ! Hosted by Caitlyn & Kalee , we're diving into real wedding stories, expert planning advice, and honest conversations to help you plan your big day with less stress (and a lot more fun 💍). 🎧 Subscribe now so you don't miss our weekly episodes dropping every Thursday — packed with tips,...