The Big Wedding Planning Podcast

What this podcast is all about & why we decided to end it after 8 years For 8 years,  The Big Wedding Planning Podcast  has been a go-to resource for real, honest, and unfiltered wedding planning advice. With hundreds of episodes and an incredible community of listeners, it’s helped thousands of marriers plan their weddings with clarity, confidence, and heart. This final episode is both a love...

In this episode, we dive straight into the essentials of wedding attire alterations with Cora Mercer from Tailored in White . Discover actionable tips on how to save money on tailoring while ensuring your attire fits like a glove on the day of. Cora explains the intricacies behind alteration costs, gives advice on handling size changes, and shares the best bustling techniques to enhance both comfo...

This episode is packed with actionable advice on ensuring your wedding attire perfectly captures your unique style and story, aligning beautifully with your overall wedding aesthetic. Join hosts Michelle and Shaun as they chat with wardrobe stylist Risa Kostis, who shares expert insights on personalizing your wedding look, coordinating your wedding party's outfits, assisting your parents in findin...

If you're investing in a wedding planner, it's crucial to ensure they're truly experts. But how can you tell? In this episode, we unpack everything you need to know to make an informed decision. From identifying genuine expertise to understanding the nuances of what makes a planner right for you, we cover it all. Whether you're looking locally or branching out virtually, this episode provides the...

We're kicking off this YAWA episode with a major announcement! Joining Michelle as the new co-host of The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is none other than Shaun Gray, a stellar wedding planner who's here to stay! 🎉🕺🔊And, as always in true YAWA style, we dive deep into your wedding planning questions. Get ready to pick up some invaluable tips and tricks for your wedding day! Want to listen Ad-fre...

In this episode, we are unraveling the often-overlooked aspect of wedding planning—insurance. What’s the difference between liability and cancellation insurance? Why is insurance crucial even if you don't foresee any issues? Do my vendors need liability policies? Our guest is David Berke, founder of eWed Insurance. David's expert insights will guide you through the complexities of insurance polici...

From creative favors to unforgettable experiential events, this episode showcases 5 innovative small businesses that elevate wedding celebrations with unique offerings. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a lavish celebration, these businesses provide exciting alternatives like DIY book bars, sophisticated mobile cigar lounges, and personalized ice cream stations. Perfect for any wedd...

Are you planning a wedding that blends cultures or strives for inclusivity? In this episode, we dive into the colorful world of multicultural weddings and female empowerment in wedding planning with international etiquette expert, Jamila Mousaiva. Jamila brings her unique perspective on blending traditions and modern etiquette to help you navigate the complexities of family dynamics and cultural e...

Michelle hosted a Wedding Planning Happy Hour last year for a large group, primarily brides, and answered numerous wedding planning questions from all stages of the process. Listen in to learn a great deal from this episode and hear about others' experiences with planning their weddings. Want to listen Ad-free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber. Ad-free, full length episodes The TBWPP Wedd...

How do you know if a photographer is right for you, and what are the red flags to watch out for? 🚩📷 Join Michelle as we dive into the world of wedding photography with our listener Emily. She brought us along on her two-month journey to find the perfect photographer for her wedding. It was a wild ride! With the help of photographer Raven Shutley, we guided Emily and her partner through the proce...

Enhance your wedding planning experience and strengthen your personal connections. In this episode, we explore the intricate dynamics of relationships during wedding planning with friendship coach and educator, Danielle Bayard Jackson . This conversation sheds light on the emotional complexities that come with preparing for a wedding. Danielle delves into "bride imposter syndrome," the challenges...

If you're planning a wedding and love our planet, this episode is packed with tips, stories, and a bit of fun that’ll help you make a difference. Michelle brings together a fantastic crew of experts who are passionate about making weddings greener. You’ll meet Courtney Barrett, an environmental scientist weaving eco-friendly magic into her own wedding, and Cris Angsten from the green-certified Oak...

PLEASE LISTEN! Some important updates about the future of our show. This episode is a bit different, as I’m discussing the changes coming to the podcast and what it means for you, my valued listeners. Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness: Ad-free, full length episodes The TBWPP Wedding Planning Resource Center with Access to 6 mini courses of The Big Wedding...

Feeding your wedding vendors isn't just courtesy—it's a must, especially for those who dedicate hours to make your day special. In this episode, I chat with my dear friend and seasoned wedding pro, Duncan Reyes. Dive into our lively discussion on the ins and outs of vendor meals, filled with insights, laughter, and Duncan's unmatched charm. Don't miss out! Click HERE to become a premium subscriber...

An exclusive behind-the-scenes journey with Violeta, a bride on the brink of her wedding day, and me, her wedding planning guide and fairy godmother. This episode is a treasure trove of voice messages shared between us during the crucial last 72 hours before her big day, topped off with a heartfelt Zoom catch-up post-rehearsal. From forgotten boutonnieres to impromptu speeches, witness the real, u...

Join me as I talk with Eli and Matt for a candid conversation about their recent wedding journey. Dive into the heart of their experiences, from the joys and surprises to the moments of reflection that shaped their special day. They share invaluable insights on staying aligned with their true priorities, navigating unexpected situations, and the significant impact of finding guidance and support t...

In this episode, I'll guide you through the crucial tasks that define the last steps of your planning journey. As you approach the last three months before your wedding day, discover the essential tasks to bring your vision to life.  From perfecting your Wedding Day Schedule to the intricate details of your Ceremony Layout, circling back with your vendors, and ensuring a smooth rehearsal, this epi...

We are celebrating 400 episodes of the pod by pulling questions from a past episode of a YAWA from each year since we started them! This is the 75th episode of YAWA to boot! Hear our answers to listener questions who are planning weddings just like you.  The first YAWA was released on November 8, 2017, so we started there.  Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingnes...

Dive into the heart of wedding planning with today’s episode as we explore the pivotal middle phase. From selecting the perfect venues and assembling your dream vendor team to the intricate details of guest accommodations and transportation, I’ve got you covered.  Discover essential tips on crafting your wedding invitations and managing the myriad of 'In Between' tasks to keep your planning journe...

An episode packed with insights to make you feel like a contract guru. Whether you're negotiating with a caterer or deciphering a DJ's terms, you will be equipped with the knowledge to tackle those contracts with confidence. This is an episode for those of you in the Middle Phase of Planning.  Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness: Ad-free, full length episode...

We're unpacking the essential steps to conducting a successful venue site visit, with the expertise of Dixie Bagley, a renowned wedding venue owner and wedding business consultant.  Choosing a venue is a major milestone in wedding planning, the reception gobbles up about half your budget and your venue sets the stage for your big day. Dixie and I will guide you through the entire process, from the...

In this YAWA episode, we address specific wedding planning questions and concerns from our listeners as well as throw in a couple of Reddit reactions!  YAWA episodes offer a mix of practical advice, industry insights, and personalized responses, making them a valuable resource for anyone involved in wedding planning. On each YAWA, Michelle is joined by an expert in the wedding industry as her co-h...

In this episode, we delve into Kristen and Michael's unique mountain wedding. We cover everything from tackling altitude challenges and budget constraints to personalizing their big day amidst nature. Listen for insights on venue selection, DIY decor strategies, and the couple's thoughtful approach to honoring a late family member. Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the am...

Think you know what it takes to plan a wedding? This episode might just change your mind. I'm diving deep into the 10 biggest wedding planning mistakes, based on decades of wedding planning experience and a treasure trove of listener stories.  Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:       Ad-free, full length episodes      The TBWPP Wedding Planning Resource Ce...

I’m chatting with Amanda Pendleton, a personal finance whiz from Zillow Home Loans, who's here to spill all the insider info for first-time home buyers. We're tackling the big question: "What do we need to know to buy our first home?" This is your one-stop-shop episode, blending love, weddings, and real estate dreams! Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:    ...