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#406 Planet-Friendly Love: Your Guide to a Sustainable Wedding

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 Chris Langston from the green-certified Oak Leaf Cottage, sharing her personal journey to sustainability. Plus, wedding planner Kristen Gosselin and David Schoenfeld from Ring Bear drop some serious knowledge (and cool ideas!) on keeping your big day beautiful and environmentally sound. We're all about sustainable weddings—not just for Earth Day, but for every day! Want to listen Ad-Free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber!
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The TBWPP Wedding Planning Resource Center with
Access to 6 mini courses of The Big Wedding Planning Master Class
Wedding Planning Templates and Tools
Links We ReferencedCourtney on InstagramPoshmarkhttps://wildalchemyphotos.com/https://www.thicketfloraldesign.comOak Leaf Cottage WebsiteOak Leaf Cottage on InstagramKG Events Design WebsiteKG Events Design on InstagramRing Bear WebsiteRing Bear on InstagramThe Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics
On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!
Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode

#405 - IMPORTANT Changes Coming To The Show

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.Topics Covered
A Heartfelt Thank You: Expressing my deep gratitude for the incredible support from our listeners, especially our paid premium subscribers. 
Major Changes: Announcing the transition of our podcast back to a free feed model and the shift to releasing new episodes monthly. 
Our Rich Library: Over 400 episodes filled with invaluable wedding planning advice and stories are now freely available. This treasure trove of content remains a resource for anyone planning their wedding.
Premium Feed Adjustments: Introducing the new format of our premium feed, which will continue to offer an ad-free listening experience with a slight change in content offerings. The subscription pricing has been adjusted to $4.99 a month or $45.99 annually.
A Brief Pause: Explaining the pause in releasing new episodes until the end of the month as we transition to the new model. Your patience during this period is greatly appreciated.
Looking Ahead: So much excitement for the next chapter of The Big Wedding Planning Podcast and the value-packed episodes to come.
Questions or Feedback? If you have any questions about the changes or need assistance with your subscription, please don’t hesitate to reach out at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com.The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics
On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!
Inviting you to become part of our Facebook Group! Join us and our amazing members. Just search for The Big Wedding Planning Podcast Community on Facebook.
Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode

#404 Vendor Meals: What You Need To Know

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!Topics We Covered
Understanding the necessity of providing vendor meals
Clarification on which vendors require meals 
Insights into the cost of vendor meals
Optimal timing for serving vendor meals during the event
Whether vendors should receive the same meal as guests
Options for sourcing vendor meals: caterer vs. external options 
Timing for finalizing vendor meal counts alongside guest counts
Inquiring about food allergies among vendor staff
About The GuestDuncan Reyes began his illustrious career as a Corporate Event Planner before moving into luxury hotel management and event planning with roles at The Portman Hotel, The Pan Pacific Hotel San Francisco, The Fairmont Hotel in both San Francisco & Chicago, The Julia Morgan Ballroom, and The Westin St. Francis Hotel San Francisco. With over 30 years of experience in wedding, corporate, and social event planning, Duncan's passion and exceptional skills led him to found F. Duncan Reyes Events By Design, making him a premiere figure in the event industry. Honored by the San Francisco Business Times in 2009 and a recipient of multiple WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards, Duncan is celebrated for his ability to create sophisticated, unique events that reflect his clients' styles, drawing on a vast network of resources to turn dreams into lasting memories.Links We ReferencedDuncan on InstagramDuncan’s WebsiteThe Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics
On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!
Inviting you to become part of our Facebook Group! Join us and our amazing members. Just search for The Big Wedding Planning Podcast Community on Facebook.
Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode

#403 The Last 72 Hours Before Her Wedding

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, unfiltered moments of wedding planning magic and mayhem. Violeta's reflections the day after her wedding offer a raw, emotional insight into the whirlwind of tying the knot. Join us for this intimate glimpse into the highs and lows of the final countdown, and maybe pick up a few tips for your own journey down the aisle.Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:
Ad-free, full episodes
TBWPP Wedding Planning Resource Center
Monthly Wedding Planning Happy Hours via Zoom with Michelle
Bonus Episodes
Extra tools and gifts get sprinkled in every so often!
Topics Covered / What you will learn
Real-life wedding planning crunch time
Navigating last-minute details
The emotional impact of wedding rehearsals
Handling forgotten elements gracefully
Post-wedding reflections
Insights on giving away wedding items
The importance of gratitude in speeches
Creative solutions for including distant family members
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics
On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!
Inviting you to become part of our Facebook Group! Join us and our amazing members. Just search for The Big Wedding Planning Podcast Community on Facebook.
Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode

#402 Eli & Matt’s Theatrical Wedding with a Side of Drag and Cheeseburgers

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 throughout their planning process. Their story is not just about the planning and the celebration but a reminder of the love and commitment at the core of a wedding. Don't miss this heartfelt retrospective filled with laughter, lessons, and love.Topics We Covered
How personalities and strengths play a role in the distribution of labor 
Navigating unexpected moments
Prioritizing personal touches
Embracing wedding surprises
Setting the ceremony tone
Creating an inclusive vibe
Integrating cultural traditions
Including distant family members
Exciting and unique micro-events
About Our GuestsEli is originally from Beaufort, SC. He now lives in Baltimore, MD with his husband Matt by way of Washington, DC. He has a background in nonprofit fundraising and social impact business development. Matt is originally from Sandwich, MA. He moved to Baltimore, MD for Teach for America over a decade ago. Originally an 8th grade science teacher, he is now an academic coach for the middle school team at Hampstead Hill Academy. Additionally, he is the Director of the Hampstead Hill Players who perform musicals (this year, they performed Legally Blonde Jr., which premiered two weeks after our wedding).The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics
On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!
Inviting you to become part of our Facebook Group! Join us and our amazing members. Just search for The Big Wedding Planning Podcast Community on Facebook.
Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode

#401 The Last Phase of Wedding Planning Explained

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 episode guides you through finalizing every element to ensure a celebration that truly reflects you and your partner. Join me as we wrap up your wedding planning journey, equipping you with the insights and tools needed for these last, vital steps. Whether you're working with a Month Of Coordinator or steering the ship yourself, let's ensure your wedding day unfolds seamlessly.Topics We Covered
Overview of the Final Phase of Wedding Planning
Perfecting Your Wedding Day Schedule and its significance.
Creating a detailed Ceremony Layout.
Circling back to vendors for final confirmations and adjustments.
Addressing easily forgotten details crucial for the wedding day.
The week of planning wrap-up: final checks and confirmations.
Conducting a productive rehearsal to ensure everyone knows their roles.
The importance of staying organized, clear communication, and using available resources for a seamless wedding day.
Encouragement and support for couples in the home stretch of their wedding planning journey.
Recommended Episode Links For This Phase of PlanningEp # 392, 'How to Start Wedding Planning: Your First Steps’Ep #399, 'The Middle Phase of Wedding Planning’Ep #9 ‘The Wedding Planner’Ep #322 ‘{Exclusive Audio} The Last Phase of Wedding Planning’#363 The Wedding Day Schedule - Tips and TricksEp#17 ‘Wedding Day Timeline Part 1 of ‘3Ep #18 ‘Wedding Day Timeline Part 2 of 3’Ep #20 ‘Wedding Day Timeline Part 3 of 3’Ep #320 ‘Wedding Day Transportation Help’Ep #176 ‘The Ceremony Layout’Ep #345 ‘Ceremony Wisdom from Celebrity Officiant Clint Hufft’Ep #370 ‘Wedding Day Emergency Kits, Bathroom Baskets and More’Ep #318 ‘Rehearsals Are Necessary’The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics
On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!
Inviting you to become part of our Facebook Group! Join us and our amazing members. Just search for The Big Wedding Planning Podcast Community on Facebook.
Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode

#400 You Ask, We Answer - 75

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. Topics / Questions
The frustration with vendors that do not put any pricing on their websites
Thoughts and experiences of hosting a wedding on a holiday weekend? 
An Instagram profile just for our wedding and our guests, instead of a wedding website
We fell in love with a venue but we will have to cut our guest list down. Help!
Bride is pregnant and the family is saying they need to wed before she delivers
My fiancé’s grandma used to yodel professionally and wants to yodel at our wedding
How do you respond when someone implies that your wedding is a waste of money?
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics
On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!
Inviting you to become part of our Facebook Group! Join us and our amazing members. Just search for The Big Wedding Planning Podcast Community on Facebook.
Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode

#399 The Middle Phase of Wedding Planning Explained

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 journey smooth and enjoyable. Plus, learn the importance of taking breaks and leaning on the TBWPP community for support. Whether you're deep in the planning process or just getting started, this episode is your guide to navigating the complexities of wedding planning with confidence and ease.Topics We Covered
Introduction to the Middle Phase of Wedding Planning
Choosing Your Venue(s)
Hiring Your Vendor Team
The importance of referencing your priorities and budget.
Hotel room blocks 
Organizing Transportation
Creating Your Wedding Invitations
Your Wedding Website, the Online Hub
Managing the Details: The 'In Between' Work
Staying on top of administrative tasks and planning details.
Scheduling regular planning sessions to maintain momentum.
The Importance of Taking Planning Breaks
Recommended Episode Links For This Phase of Planning
Ep #392 How to Start Wedding Planning: Your First Steps
Ep #304 All About Finding Your Venue(s)
Ep#324 Finding Unconventional Venues with Peerspace
Ep#397 How to Ace Your Venue Site Visit: The Ultimate Guide
Ep#297 All About Home Weddings with David Tutera
Ep#311 All About Wedding Beauty Prep
Ep #288 All About the Cake and Other Desserts
Ep #286 Bands: Everything You Need to Know
Ep #269 Live Music at Your Wedding
Ep #227 The Bar: Everything You Need to Know
Ep #368 Vendor Contracts. What You Need to Know
Ep #320: Wedding Day Transportation Help
Ep #293: All About Print Materials
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics
On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!
Inviting you to become part of our Facebook Group! Join us and our amazing members. Just search for The Big Wedding Planning Podcast Community on Facebook.
Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode

#398 WTF is Force Majeure? Understanding Your Contracts

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.Topics We Covered
Legal terminology in plain English
Why are contracts so long?
What does Indemnity mean?
Why can vendors keep the deposit / retainer?
What’s the difference between a deposit and retainer?
Let’s break down Liability
Right to use photos / video
What does Force Majeure mean? 
Cancellation and rescheduling
Who signs it if we are not paying? 
2 types of Insurance you need for your wedding
About Our GuestsKUNBI ODUBOGUN, ESQ. (SHE/HER) — CO-FOUNDER AND PARTNERKunbi Odubogun is a business attorney, speaker, and digital media expert with over 12 years experience in the creative and legal industries. LEAH WEINBERG, ESQ. (SHE/HER) — CO-FOUNDER AND PARTNERLeah Weinberg is an attorney, a recovering wedding planner, and the author of The Wedding Roller Coaster.Links We ReferencedLeah on IG Kunbi on IG Oduberg Law on IGhttps://perfete.com/https://legallyset.com/The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics
On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!
Inviting you to become part of our Facebook Group! Join us and our amazing members. Just search for The Big Wedding Planning Podcast Community on Facebook.
Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode

#397 How to Ace Your Venue Site Visit: The Ultimate Guide

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 initial online research to the in-person visit, ensuring you know exactly when to go, who to bring, and what to ask.Topics We Covered
Timing Your Site Visit: Knowing the best moment to schedule your venue exploration.
Navigating the Site Visit: Essential steps to take during your visit.
Choosing Your Visit Squad: Deciding who should accompany you.
Packing Your Site Visit Kit: What to bring for a productive outing.
Open House vs. Private Site Visit: Navigating the differences and benefits.
Dealing with Venue Renovations: What to ask and expect if renovations are planned.
Virtual Scouting for Destination Venues: Best practices for when you can't visit in person.
About The GuestDixie Bagley is a renowned wedding business entrepreneur, owning The Farm in Rome, Georgia, a picturesque European farm estate nestled in the northwest Georgia mountains. In addition to managing her venue, Dixie also owns The Sweet Bar Bakery, bringing culinary delight to her clients. Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, she serves as a Business & Personal Consultant for wedding and event professionals, specializing in growth and balance, while also excelling as a wedding planner and engaging speaker in the field of event education.Links We ReferencedThe Sweet BarThe Farm Rome, GADixie EventsThe Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics
On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!
Inviting you to become part of our Facebook Group! Join us and our amazing members. Just search for The Big Wedding Planning Podcast Community on Facebook.
Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode