Gain expert knowledge, share hearty laughs, and discover the best tips to maximize your budget and wedding planning experience. Hosted by 2 Wedding Planners with with decades of experience, they share invaluable insights and industry secrets to empower you on your path to 'I Do.'
🎉 We celebrate inclusivity here, making this podcast a perfect companion for EVERYONE planning their wedding. 👰🤵 🌎 🤝 🏳️🌈👭👬
Gain expert knowledge, share hearty laughs, and discover the best tips to maximize your budget and wedding planning experience. Hosted by 2 Wedding Planners with with decades of experience, they share invaluable insights and industry secrets to empower you on your path to 'I Do.'
🎉 We celebrate inclusivity here, making this podcast a perfect companion for EVERYONE planning their wedding. 👰🤵 🌎 🤝 🏳️🌈👭👬
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 letter to longtime listeners and the perfect starting point for anyone just discovering the show.
Michelle is joined by the original co-host, Christy Matthews, for a heartfelt and candid farewell conversation that includes:
1. A breakdown of the must-listen episodes to start your wedding planning journey:
Ep 3 – Firsts: What to Do Right After You Get Engaged
Ep 4 – Budget: How Much?
Ep 5 – The Guest List
Ep 31 – The Final Details
Ep 176 – The Ceremony Layout
Ep 210 – Crash Course in Wedding Planning
Ep 392 – How to Start Wedding Planning: Your First Steps
2. Favorite guests, most memorable moments, and behind-the-scenes stories
3. How the podcast has impacted their lives—and why it’s time to say goodbye
4. An honest look at the challenges of keeping a passion project going for 8 years
Whether you’re brand new here or you’ve been listening since day one, this episode captures the heart and spirit of what made The Big Wedding Planning Podcast so special.
To every listener, guest, and supporter: thank you. You made this show what it was.
Though this is the final new episode, the entire catalog will remain available for free—full of timeless, practical content to guide you through your wedding planning journey.
Love you, love your show!
—
Hosted & Produced by Michelle Martinez
Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics
Follow us On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!
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 comfort and style. She also covers when to seek out a tailor and the expected timeline for the alteration process. Listen in for invaluable insights that will help you navigate wedding attire adjustments smartly and creatively!
Want to listen to us Ad-free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber.
What you will learn
Links We Referenced
Tailored in White on Instagram
Pinterest: @tailoredinwhite
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez & Shaun Gray
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 finding the right fits, managing attire changes, and preparing for unforeseen wardrobe mishaps. Tune in to transform your wedding attire choices into unforgettable elements of your celebration.
Want to listen Ad-free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber.
Topics We Covered
About The Guest
Risa Kostis is a seasoned wardrobe stylist, The Wedding Emergency Stylist™, a speaker, and entrepreneur based in Phoenix, Arizona. She is the founder of top styling company Risa Kostis Creative and CEO/co-founder of The Rescue Kit Co, offering fashion emergency kits for brides and beyond.
Links We Referenced
Wedding Day Fashion Emergency Kit
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 know-how to ensure you pick a planner who aligns with your vision, budget, and expectations.
Want to listen Ad-free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber.
Topics We Covered
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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-free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber.
Topics and Questions That Were Covered
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 policies, making this essential planning tool accessible and straightforward.
Want to listen Ad-free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber.
Topics We Covered
About Our Guest
eWed Insurance, founded by David Berke, a 27-year veteran of the wedding and event industry, provides specialized liability and cancellation insurance to protect couples’ special day from unforeseen mishaps. Liability insurance covers incidents like slip-and-falls and property damage, while cancellation insurance safeguards deposits if events are postponed or canceled due to issues like severe weather or vendor bankruptcy. Prior to eWed, David was the President of Colin Cowie Lifestyle, an internationally recognized luxury lifestyle brand.
Links We Referenced
https://www.ewedinsurance.com/blog/why-couples-should-always-buy-wedding-cancellation-insurance/
https://www.ewedinsurance.com/blog/
AM Best Rating for insurance companies
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 wedding-related event—from the main celebration to the welcome reception and rehearsal dinner—these ideas will dazzle your guests and make your special day truly memorable.
Want to listen Ad-free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber.
Episode Takeaways:
Featured Businesses and Special Offers:
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 expectations. Whether you're trying to incorporate diverse cultural elements into your ceremony or seeking tips on making all guests feel included, this episode is packed with insightful, actionable advice. Perfect for couples looking to personalize their wedding with elegance and respect, Jamila’s advice ensures your big day is as thoughtful as it is memorable. Join us for a fun, enlightening discussion that breaks the mold of traditional etiquette!
Want to listen ad-free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber.
Topics We Covered
About The Guest
Jamila Musayeva is a certified etiquette teacher, a 3X author on etiquette, and a YouTube creator with nearly 1 Million subscribers, focusing on international etiquette. Raised in Azerbaijan with a rich multicultural upbringing, Jamila is fluent in six languages, and her approach to etiquette intertwines personal development, female empowerment, and cultural appreciation, striking a delicate balance between progressive living and preserving traditions.
Jamila teaches etiquette to ambassadors, young diplomats, as well as everyday people who consume her content and attend her events. Jamila has written three etiquette books, ‘Etiquette: the least you need to know’, ‘Afternoon Tea Etiquette’, and her newest book ‘The Art of Entertaining at Home’, and she’s grown her audience to over 1 million in just a few years
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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.
Topics and Questions That Were Covered
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 process, offering plenty of advice and support. You’re going to learn a lot from this episode!
Want to listen Ad-free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber.
Topics We Covered
About The Guest
Raven Shetley - Raven is a talented wedding photographer based just above Atlanta, Georgia, with 17 years of experience. She specializes in capturing genuine, heartfelt moments, making her a trusted expert in the wedding industry. You can check out her beautiful work on Instagram at @RavenShutleyStudios or visit her website RavenShutleyStudios.com. Feel free to email her at raven@ravenshutleystudios.com for any questions or inquiries.
Links We Referenced
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 of balancing friendship expectations, and provides actionable strategies to maintain and deepen your relationships during this pivotal time. While our focus is on brides and female relationships, Danielle's insights are universally applicable, offering valuable guidance to anyone, regardless of how they identify.
Want to listen Ad-free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber.
Topics We Covered
Links We Referenced
Danielle’s book – Fighting for Our Friendships
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 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:
Links We Referenced
https://wildalchemyphotos.com/
https://www.thicketfloraldesign.com
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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:
Topics Covered
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
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 and unlock all of the amazingness:
Topics We Covered
About The Guest
Duncan 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 Referenced
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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:
Topics Covered / What you will learn
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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.
Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:
Topics We Covered
About Our Guests
Eli 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).
Links
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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.
Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:
Topics We Covered
Recommended Episode Links For This Phase of Planning
Ep # 392, 'How to Start Wedding Planning: Your First Steps’
Ep #399, 'The Middle Phase of Wedding Planning’
Ep #322 ‘{Exclusive Audio} The Last Phase of Wedding Planning’
#363 The Wedding Day Schedule - Tips and Tricks
Ep#17 ‘Wedding Day Timeline Part 1 of ‘3
Ep #18 ‘Wedding Day Timeline Part 2 of 3’
Ep #20 ‘Wedding Day Timeline Part 3 of 3’
Ep #320 ‘Wedding Day Transportation Help’
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
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 amazingness:
Questions / Topics
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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.
Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:
Topics We Covered
Recommended Episode Links For This Phase of Planning
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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:
Topics We Covered
About Our Guests
KUNBI ODUBOGUN, ESQ. (SHE/HER) — CO-FOUNDER AND PARTNER
Kunbi 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 PARTNER
Leah Weinberg is an attorney, a recovering wedding planner, and the author of The Wedding Roller Coaster.
Links We Referenced
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
