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#396 You Ask, We Answer - 74

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-host. Our co-host for this episode is seasoned, Houston-based, wedding planner extraordinaire, the one and only Shaun Gray!Questions We Answered
Should we invite my step-dad's family to the wedding now that my mom is divorcing him after 20 years of marriage?
What are some alternative ideas to the Unity Candle that we can incorporate into our ceremony?
Should we have a preset salad at our outdoor tent wedding to minimize guest movement, or would it enhance the guest experience to have the caterer serve salads at the table while keeping dinner buffet-style?
How do I dress the dining tables if we are having a buffet-style dinner service?
How can we keep guests entertained at our wedding without traditional dances or cake cutting
What are some engaging and not overly cheesy virtual activities to introduce my friends to each other before my destination bachelorette, considering they live in different parts of the country and will be meeting for the first time?
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

#395 Real Wedding Retrospective: A Wedding in the Mountains

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.Topics We Covered
What led them to this venue in a remote location
Things to consider when getting married at high altitude
How they stuck to their budget
All of the DIY projects
The challenges of planning a wedding at the same time as launching a business
Money saving ideas 
Honoring a parent that's passed away
Accepting what you cannot control
Wedding Planning Organizational Tools
The Couple: Kristen Brun Sharkey & Michael SharkeyWedding Date: 9/9/23# of Guests: 90Venue: Winters Creek Lodge, NV (North Lake Tahoe)LinksNotionPhoto Booth Rental - PixilatedMichelle’s Favorite PJ’s from TargetThe 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

#394 Ten Big Wedding Planning Mistakes: IMO

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. This isn't your typical wedding chatter. It's a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is rundown of the missteps and miscalculations that could throw a wrench in your plans.From budget mishaps to misjudged decisions, this episode covers it all. It's packed with practical advice, eye-opening insights, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from years in the trenches of wedding planning. Whether you're just starting out or already in the thick of it, these insights are indispensable.So, if you're ready for some real talk on wedding planning – the good, the bad, and the ugly – you can’t afford to miss this episode. Disagree with any of this? I’m all ears! DM me on Instagram or email me. Let’s talk about it. Love you, love your show!~MichelleThe 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

#393 Home Buying 101: Wisdom for Wedding Couples

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!Topics We Covered
Is it better to rent or buy?
Steps to take if you want to buy a home in the next year or two
All about down payments
What you need to do before you start home shopping
What comes first? Finding an agent or finding a lender?
How to choose a Lender
How to find the right home for you
First-time home buyer regrets
How to manage wedding expenses while saving for your first home
About The GuestAmanda Pendleton is a personal finance expert at Zillow Home Loans. Her practical, data-driven advice has been featured on TODAY, CBS Sunday Morning, The New York Times, Real Simple and Glamour. Amanda translates Zillow's housing market data into actionable advice for homeowners, buyers, sellers and renters looking to move on to life's next chapter or maximize their biggest financial investment. She directs research that helps people make more informed decisions about where and how they live - from the color they should paint their bathroom walls to the features that can increase their home's value.Links We ReferencedZillow’s WebsiteZillow on InstagramZillow’s Affordability CalculatorFirst Time Home Buyer Resources   Zillow’s Customer Learning Center  HoneyfundThe 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

#392 How to Start Wedding Planning: Your First Steps

This episode is designed to equip you with practical, actionable steps to organize and navigate the early stages of wedding planning. The very first steps to set the foundation and ensure you stay on budget and on track. Topics 
Introduction to Wedding Planning: Understanding the emotional spectrum of planning a wedding.
Budget Planning: The importance of an ironclad budget and managing expectations.
Prioritizing: Knowing where to start and in what order
Design and Vision: How to align your wedding with your unique style and preferences.
Guest List Management: Strategies for creating a thoughtful and meaningful guest list.
Planning Timeline: The essential guide to organizing and pacing your planning process.
Resources and Support: Utilizing available tools, resources, and community support throughout your planning.
Links We ReferencedEp #375 Wedding Planning 101: From Start To FinishFree Wedding Priorities ExerciseThe Big Wedding Planning Master ClassThe 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

#391 You Ask, We Answer - 73

In this final YAWA of 2023, where we're diving into a fabulous mash-up of 2022's highlights! Yes, I know that 2024 is just around the corner, but let's hit pause and revel in the best moments of last year. It's a quirky throwback, but trust me, these gems are timeless and totally worth the rewind. Happy New Year!! Questions We Answered
We’re considering asking a friend to be our Officiant. How do we go about asking and should we pay for their certification/license? (YAWA April 2022)
My fiancé doesn’t want a wedding and would rather elope. He won’t participate in planning… (YAWA Aug 2022)
We are required to have limited liability insurance, should we get additional insurance in case anything happens? (YAWA March 2022)
Dealing with my mom and the anxiety that comes from her criticism (YAWA October 2022)
A friend got upset when I got engaged. She didn’t congratulate me, and it has been very difficult. Can I not invite her to my wedding? (YAWA May 2022)
The DJ thinks dancing for 3 hours is too long! (YAWA December 2022)
Best way to help my anxiety on my wedding weekend? (YAWA Jan 2022)
Thank you to my co-hosts that contributedDixie BagleyKelly McWilliamsMark Allan GroleauMegan Gillikin Darryl MooreJustine CarinoKathryn KalabokesThe 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

#390 Manifesting and Wedding Planning with Theresa Cheung

This episode is more than just about planning the perfect wedding. It's a call to embrace self-love, to believe in yourself, and to manifest a life filled with joy and fulfillment. Our guest, Theresa Cheung’s insights remind us that while planning for the big day, it's essential to nurture the most important relationship you'll ever have – the one with yourself.Remember, lovebirds, your wedding is not just a day. It's the beginning of a beautiful journey. So, let's plan it with love, care, and a touch of magic!What You Will Learn
Understanding Manifesting - Theresa breaks down common misconceptions about manifesting, highlighting it as a journey of self-care and self-love.
Manifesting and Wedding Planning - How the principles of manifesting can be applied to wedding planning and why focusing on positive outcomes matters.
Self-Belief and Intuition - Exploring the relationship between self-belief and intuition, and their impact on making decisions.
Practical Tips and Techniques - Theresa provides practical tips for manifesting, including dream work and creating positive rituals.
Dealing with Negativity - Understanding how to handle negative thoughts and use them as a tool for self-improvement.
The Role of Self-Love in Relationships - Discussing the importance of self-love and its impact on relationships and wedding planning.
About Our GuestBest-selling author Theresa Cheung has been researching and writing about spirituality, astrology, dreams, the afterlife, and the paranormal for the past 25 years. She has a Master's degree from King's College Cambridge University in Theology and English, and several international best-selling books.Links We Referenced#325 Decoding Your Dreams: Weddings and Otherwisetimemachine.loveTheresa’s Website: https://www.theresacheung.com/Theresa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheresacheung/Theresa’s Book to interpret dreams: The Dream Dictionary A to ZTheresa’s book: Empower Your Inner PsychicThe 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

#389 Breaking Up With Bridezilla

Redefining the "Bridezilla": A Conversation on Empowerment and Authenticity in Wedding PlanningIn this episode, we engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Hillary Odell of Hilandel, focusing on debunking the 'bridezilla' stereotype and highlighting the importance of authenticity and empowerment in wedding planning. This episode goes beyond just challenging a term; it's an exploration of societal pressures and expectations, and a call to embrace one's true self in the journey of marriage preparation.Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:
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Topics We Covered
The origins and impact of the "bridezilla" stereotype
The societal pressures on women and non-binary individuals during wedding planning
The role of authenticity and empowerment in choosing bridal attire
Challenging unfair labels and stereotypes in the wedding industry
The importance of speaking up and expressing personal preferences
The intimate and personal nature of creating custom bridal wear
Empowering individuals to make decisions that reflect their true selves
Hillary's approach to client relationships and the design process
Redefining traditional wedding norms and expectations
About The GuestHillary O’Dell is the founder and designer for Hilandel, a design label based in New York City, specializing in custom bridal as well as offering a collection of limited-edition ready to wear pieces. With a focus on feminism, sustainable fashion and body neutrality, Hilandel designs are made to feel authentically you from the very beginning. Each bride becomes the muse for her own dress; as it should be. Links We ReferencedHilandel WebsiteHilandel 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!
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

#388 Real Wedding Retrospective: Radical & Revolutionary Love

This united and strong couple, reflect on their wedding journey, highlighting the significance of their union in the context of same-sex and interracial marriage only being legal in the U.S. since 2015 and 1967, respectively. Emphasizing their commitment to what was important to them, they share how they navigated the complexities of family dynamics while maintaining clear boundaries. Their positive outlook and resilience shone through as they tackled wedding day snags with professionalism and grace. Melissa speaks passionately about how their queer love is both radical and revolutionary, underlining the historic and personal importance of their marriage.Topics We Covered
Strategies for Curating the Guest List
The Role of Community Commitment in Shaping Their Wedding
Crafting Personalized Wedding Vows
Avoiding the Pitfall of Over-Focusing on Minor Details
Managing Family Pressure for Unwanted Wedding Elements
Maintaining Focus Throughout the Wedding Planning Process
Key Components to Incorporate into a Ceremony Script
Handling Technical Issues During the Event
About Our GuestsKarissa Sullivan is an Assistant Principal at Ramapo High School with two Masters degrees and currently pursuing her doctorate in educational leadership from Columbia University. She's been in the education field since her early career, starting as a teacher before earning her advanced degrees.When she's not shaping young minds, Karissa's all about family life. She's a loving sister, daughter, and aunt, and together with her wife, they're working on growing their family, which includes their two furry companions, right in the heart of Nyack, NY and a ton of plants. She's actively involved in her community, serving on the BIPOC Advisory Board for the Phyllis B. Frank Rockland County Pride Center, and is also a charter member and Treasurer of the Black School Educators of Rockland County. Karissa's dedication extends to her role as the inaugural Grand Marshal of the 2023 Rockland County Pride Parade, making her a true advocate and leader in her community.Melissa Sullivan is a proud Brooklynite with over two decades of experience championing youth development, racial justice, LGBTQ+ advocacy, social justice and nonprofit leadership. Currently she’s the Executive Director at PFLAG NYC, where she’s all about making NYC more LGBTQ+ friendly. When she's not changing the world, you'll find her assisting start-up nonprofits, volunteering, reading a lot, and embarking on the journey of expanding her family with her wife and two adorable pups in Nyack, NY. She’s a proud sister, adoptive mom of an adult daughter, Godmom to four super cool kids, and an aunt. Links We ReferencedCeremony Script: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pJxFCq3Tqe2PSraGjdv69oZs_YOAX-DQHq1k73GWFpo/edit?usp=sharingWedding Coordination and Florals: @luxuryeventcollective Photography/videography/Photo Booth/lighting: @stateoftheartvisuals and @societyofthearts DJ: @djcooleeHair and Makeup: @thekeylookllc@humblehands314 Wedding Cake: @bakerman1727 Rehearsal Dinner Event Space and Bartending: @xhousenyack Rehearsal Dinner catering: @cravinjamaicancuisine     Wedding Officiant: Reverend Tabatha Holley @revfemmeblaqity Dog day care: @papawsdoghouseWedding Dress: @bridesbyyoung Wedding Suit: @bindleandkeepNY Times Article: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/11/style/melissa-dandrea-karissa-sullivan-weThe 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

#387 You Ask, We Answer - 72

This month's YAWA is brimming with energy as we tackle an array of real wedding planning challenges. Along with my co-host Dixie Bagley, we offer practical advice, creative problem-solving, and a touch of humor with lots of fun! Just as wedding planning should be. ;)  Imagine figuring out how to keep guests warm at a winter wedding when you discover your venue has no heat, or debating if you should arrive at a wedding shower empty-handed after sending the gift directly to the couple's home.We also shed light on some of the more nuanced aspects of wedding planning, such as the appropriate timeline for photographers to deliver your photos and the modern-day etiquette of using social media for professional communication. Questions We Answered
Just found out our venue has no heat for my winter wedding
What to look at and ask at venue site visits
Do I show up empty handed to a wedding shower if I purchased the gift off the registry and it was delivered to the couple’s house?
Our wedding was 15 weeks ago and photographer still has not sent our photos
Is it strange my photographer is communicating to clients through social media?
 Inviting Out of town guests to our “low key welcome party” but they will have to pay their own tab
How do I orchestrate the “Who Has Been Married The Longest” dance/game? 
About Our Co-hostDixie 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 The 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