Weddings 101

Where does all the money really go when you plan a wedding? In this episode, I uncover the hidden wedding costs couples often miss and explain how to prepare for them before they derail your plans. From venue service fees and catering surprises to alterations, décor, photography add-ons, and even permits, these extra expenses can add thousands of dollars to your big day. I share why these costs exist, what makes them higher or lower, and the smart questions you can ask vendors to avoid being caught off guard. You will also learn how contracts and service charges really w...

Your wedding stationery is more than just paper. It is the first impression your guests will have of your celebration and the thread that ties your event together from start to finish. In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Wiedenfeld, the owner and artist behind Rachel Wiedenfeld Studio, to talk about save the dates, invitations, and day of stationery. Rachel shares expert advice on when to send each piece, what details to include, how to set realistic RSVP deadlines, and why custom stationery can make your wedding feel cohesive and personal. She also offers practical insights on budgeting, the...

You’ve planned every detail of your wedding, and now it’s time to bring it all together. In this episode, I cover how to execute your wedding week and day-of coordination with confidence. From final vendor confirmations and must-have printed items, to packing your emergency kit, assigning a reliable point person, and preparing gratuities, this is your ultimate wedding week checklist. I also cover transportation, accommodations, ceremony details, decor handoffs, and post-wedding logistics that couples often forget until the last minute. Whether you’re days away from saying “I do” or just want to feel prepared for the final stretch, t...

In this episode of Weddings 101, I sit down with my friend Sarah to talk about her Long Island wedding at Westbury Manor. She shares how she compared venues across North Carolina, New Hampshire, and New York before choosing an all-inclusive venue that made planning easier and stress-free. From guest accommodations and catering to décor and day-of coordination, Sarah explains why going all-inclusive was the right choice for her and how it shaped her entire wedding experience. If you’re considering a Long Island wedding or thinking about an all-inclusive venue, this episode is packed with insights and tips you won...

Finalizing wedding details and logistics is what transforms months of planning into a smooth wedding day. In this episode, I cover seating charts, guest transportation, vendor schedules, hotel blocks, parking, permits, and how to build a complete wedding day timeline. Whether you’re preparing now or planning ahead, you’ll learn how to keep everything organized so your day feels seamless.

If you want a wedding day that feels calm, organized, and joy filled, not rushed or chaotic, your planning timeline is your secret weapon. In this episode of Weddings 101, I break down exactly how to create and maintain a wedding planning timeline that keeps you on track from “yes” to “I do.” You’ll learn when to book vendors, send invitations, and make key decisions, plus how to break big goals into bite sized weekly tasks. We’ll cover tools that actually work, why rest weeks matter, and the little buffers that save you from last minute panic. Whether you are planning...

If you’ve never planned a wedding before, sending Save the Dates and invitations might seem simple, but there’s a lot more to consider than just telling people when and where to show up. In this episode, I walk you through when to send each piece of your wedding stationery, what to include, how to design them, and ways to clearly communicate who is invited. From traditional printed invites to digital options, plus tips for RSVP tracking, guest list clarity, and postage prep, this episode contains practical advice to help you navigate this key step with confidence. Whether you're plan...

In this episode, I dive into step 8 of the wedding planning process: developing your wedding design and decor plan. If you're feeling overwhelmed by Pinterest boards and inspiration overload this is where it all starts to come together. I break down how to create a wedding mood board, select a color palette that fits your venue and season, and decide what decor projects are worth doing yourself and what should be handed off. You will explore how to map out your ceremony and reception decor, build a cohesive vision, and keep your style aligned with your overall wedding mission. We...

You’ve booked your venue, photographer, and caterer. Now what? In this episode of Weddings 101, I walk you through exactly when to book every other wedding vendor on your list, from florists and rentals to hair and makeup, signage, transportation, and more. I'll cover common booking mistakes, what questions to ask, and the planning details most couples don’t find out until it’s too late. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what’s next in your wedding planning timeline, this episode gives you a clear, step-by-step path forward.

Choosing a wedding photographer is about more than just their portfolio. It’s about finding someone who understands your story, helps you feel completely at ease, and captures the moments that truly matter. In this episode of Weddings 101, I sit down with Raleigh-based wedding photographer Ivy Ren to unpack what couples should really consider before booking their wedding photographer. We talk about what makes a photographer the right fit, how to tell if someone will bring out your natural connection on camera, and why referrals and personal rapport are more important than ever. Ivy shares her best tips for creating a...

Wedding dress shopping is one of the most memorable moments of the entire wedding planning process, but it can also bring questions, pressure, and unexpected stress. In this episode, I cover everything you need to know about choosing your wedding gown and coordinating the rest of your bridal party’s attire. From the ideal timeline to start dress shopping to tips on staying within budget, I walk through the process step by step, including how to prepare for fittings, what to bring to your bridal appointments, and how to know when you've found "the one." You'll also hear advice for ch...

Looking for a meaningful, one-of-a-kind keepsake to remember your wedding day? In this episode of Weddings 101, I speak with Autumn Hunter, a live wedding portrait artist, about how she turns wedding moments into heirloom-quality oil paintings. Autumn shares everything brides need to know about what a live painting actually looks like on the wedding day, how she captures the emotion and essence of your love story, and why more couples are choosing wedding art as a timeless investment. We also dive into her signature collage technique that layers meaningful mementos like ticket stubs, vows, and even pet paw prints, into...

Planning your wedding look and searching for bridal hair and makeup that lets you look like you while highlighting your natural beauty? In this episode, I talk with Allyson Smith, the lead stylist and owner of Allyson’s Chair, about how to create a wedding day look that feels authentic, timeless, and effortlessly beautiful. From when to book your beauty team to what to bring to your bridal trial, Allyson offers expert insights drawn from years of experience specializing in soft glam, natural looks that help you feel like your most beautiful self. You’ll learn how to create a time...

You’ve booked your venue and set the date, and now it’s time to hire your Big Three wedding vendors: your photographer or videographer, caterer, and officiant. In this episode of Weddings 101, I walk you through everything you need to know to confidently find and book these essential professionals. From narrowing down photography styles to navigating catering options and understanding religious and non-religious officiant requirements, this episode breaks it all down step by step. You’ll learn where to search, what questions to ask, and how to make sure each vendor fits your vision, style, and budget. This episode gives...

Choosing your wedding venue and setting your date are two of the most important and exciting decisions you’ll make during the planning process. In this episode, I share how to approach these choices with clarity and confidence, even if you’ve never planned a wedding before. I’ll walk you through what to figure out before you start venue shopping, how to narrow down your options based on style and location, and what questions to ask during venue tours. I’ll also talk about how to pick your wedding date strategically so it aligns with your vision, your guests’ needs, and...

Building your wedding guest list can feel like one of the most overwhelming parts of planning, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Weddings 101, I walk you through how to approach creating your guest list. You’ll learn why your guest count impacts nearly every aspect of your wedding, how to start your list in layers, and ways to navigate tricky conversations around family expectations and finances. From setting boundaries around plus-ones, to staying organized with spreadsheets and digital tools, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you make thoughtful decisions without second-guessing. Whether you’...

In this episode of Weddings 101, we sit down with Makenzee Bettinger to unpack her unforgettable fall wedding in Jersey City, NJ. From locking in a dream venue with city skyline views to planning a surprise choreographed dance with her bridal crew, Makenzee shares advice from her wedding planning journey. We talk through vendor tips, budget strategy, choosing a bridal party, the power of personal vows, and how to stay grounded during planning. Whether you're a Type A bride or just trying to survive your checklist, this episode is packed with real talk and valuable advice. Vendors: Hair/Makeup: @glambeautyteam_ Flowers...

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but it gets much easier when you start with a clear vision and a set of priorities. In this episode of Weddings 101, I’ll walk you through how to define what really matters to you and your partner before diving into the details. You’ll learn how to create a simple wedding mission statement, uncover your top priorities as a couple, and use those to make confident, stress-free decisions throughout the planning process. Whether you're just getting started or feeling pulled in different directions, this episode will help you move forward with clarity and conf...

Your wedding budget is the foundation for almost every decision you'll make during the planning process, so it's important to get it right from the start. In this episode of Weddings 101, I’m walking you through how to set a realistic and flexible budget, how to structure it around your priorities, and how to actually stick to it without feeling like you’re cutting out all the fun. We’ll talk about building your ideal, maximum, and emergency cushion budgets, how to allocate funds across major categories like venue, photography, attire, and more, and how to keep track of every expens...

Before diving into checklists and timelines, it's important to understand the big picture. In this solo episode, I walk you through the 12 key steps every couple should focus on when planning their wedding. From setting your vision and budget to choosing vendors and planning guest experiences, these steps will give you a strong foundation and help you feel more in control from the start. Whether you're newly engaged or just getting serious about planning, this episode is the perfect place to begin.

Been asked to be a Maid of Honor and not sure where to start? You’re not alone! In this episode, I break down everything you need to know about stepping into this important role with confidence. 🎀 From understanding expectations, bridal shower and bachelorette party planning, wedding day duties, and writing your speech, to handling stress and supporting the bride — I cover the most common questions first-time maids of honor have (and the ones nobody warns you about). Whether you're wondering how involved you should be, what to pack for the big day, or how to navigate emotions and bridal party d...

Think your dream wedding has to cost $20K or more? Think again! In this inspiring episode, bride Juliet Rath shares how she planned a meaningful, elegant, and intimate wedding in Boone, North Carolina for under $3,000—all within five months and during the pandemic. From bartering with vendors and foraging flowers to crafting handmade details and building a supportive vendor network, Juliet proves that creativity and community can bring your dream wedding to life without breaking the bank. She dives deep into budget hacks, her approach to DIY decor, vendor relationships, guest list decisions, and timeline tips to help you plan sm...

Planning a magical winter or Christmas-themed wedding in Charlotte, NC? In this episode, Carina shares her experience creating a stunning yet budget-friendly celebration filled with elegant DIY details. She dives into vendor selection, managing a winter wedding budget, and incorporating seasonal touches that made her day extra special. If you're dreaming of a cozy, stylish, and personalized holiday wedding, Carina’s insights will help you plan with confidence. Tune in for real bride wisdom and must-know wedding planning tips!

My sister joins me again to share the rest of her firsthand insights on planning a wedding, from creating a seamless timeline to choosing meaningful ceremony traditions, reception music, and must-capture photo moments. We also cover topics like bridal party selection, pre-wedding celebrations, and her best advice for future brides navigating their own big day. If you’re planning your wedding and want to feel prepared and inspired, this episode is packed with invaluable tips to help you create a day that feels effortless and unforgettable! Want to connect with Airy? Follow her on Instagram: @agracerealty Photo by: South of Ed...

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but hearing from someone who’s been through it can make all the difference! In this episode, I sit down with my twin sister to chat about her wedding in Boone, NC—an intimate, 35-guest wedding in a modern barn-style venue. She shares how she chose her wedding date, theme, and color palette, along with the challenges of managing a guest list, selecting vendors, and staying within her $15K–$20K budget. We also dive into finding the perfect dress, navigating vendor contracts, and the key lessons she learned along the way. Whether you're just starti...