Before the Big Day

It's the first #WeddingWednesday in May and I'm so excited that Amber and Yoshi wanted to share their #weddingplanning journey on the podcast today. Hear what and WHO they credit for helping their #CovidWedding be a #BigDay success, including:

1) the fabulous staff at the Rattlesnake Club in Detroit, MI;

2)their amazing Wedding Coordinator - the Crystal Marie of Crystal Marie Events for the logistics AND #Superman and #WonderWoman decor; and much more!

Excited to interview Olivia, VTABi Administrative Directer for the Couture luxury Bridal Robes collection.

VTABi began as a small business in which Veronica sold Kanté print wear, Afrocentric designs and matching accessories. Now, with over 15 thousand followers on social media, VTABi has grown into a successful luxury bridal brand. Her most notable bridal robes and bridal lingerie have been featured in magazines such as Essence, Mulanuchi, and Black Bride. Her gowns, jumpsuits and maternity robes continue to galvanize the internet and define Veronica as a fashion trailblazer within our community.

This is a "teaching" episode as I share how to properly create a Wedding Budget using Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. If you haven't created a budget or just don't know how to start, this spreadsheet is an excellent resource. You can get a copy here:

Google Sheets

Microsoft Excel

Brides have so many choices when it comes to not only her bridal attire but also for her bridesmaids; Bridal Babes offers CHOICES for your #BrideTribe available ONLINE with a seamless shopping experience. Plus, some "extras" for Bridal showers, bachelorette parties and much more. Ashley is in the Guest Chair for today's #Wedding Wednesday explaining the process AND sharing some tips for those on the #weddingplanning journey! Listen on any podcast channel OR view the fashions on today's YouTube episode. And make sure you listen or watch all the way to the end for a special discount code!!

YouTube episode: https://youtu.be/zwxlqN5Qqss

Excited to have The Rev. Katrese Kirk McKenzie in the guest chair this #WeddingWednesday to share her most memorable moments from her MicroWedding in 2020, including:

1. Her awesome bridal gown from #ProjectRunway Designer #LauryBride;

2. The awesome #weddding venue in Illinois; and

3. how they were able to capture memories with EVERY guest present; and much MORE, including some tips on planning your upcoming #BigDay

"Sophisticated in Style and Joyful in Romance" is Terri Baskin's motto as a much sought after Wedding Photographer in the DMV area.

A 2nd generation Wedding Photographer, Terri advises couples to ensure they have a good "fit" with their Wedding Photographer:

1) get to know each other and establish a relationship;

2) schedule a pre-Wedding session, i.e. an engagement shoot; and so much more!!

Shout out to Melissa of B Astonished Events, Episode 66 Guest, who partnered with Terri for Micro Weddings during #covid19.

Did you know "Tress" is another word for Hair? My guest for today's #WeddingWednesday episode has established herself as THE Hair Expert for Brides on their #BigDay. You've seen her work on BravoTV, TLC, and in magazines such as the Washingtonian and Munaluchi Bride.

With the mission to inspire others to Dream, Love, and Celebrate life, Michelle Gainey started Atlanta based Lemiga Events nearly two decades ago, serving as a premier event planning boutique specializing in stylish and glamorous affairs. Soon thereafter she extended her expertise into other lifestyle services. I'm so blessed to have her in the Guest Chair for this #weddingWednesday episode!

Another one of the Real Wedding Planners of Detroit, Meisha from Dream Celebrations is in the guest chair for this episode. In it we discuss the difference between a Wedding Planner and a Wedding Coordinator, AND we even "touch" on the fact that #covid19 may have started a new trend for smaller weddings = bigger decor budget. Tune in or watch on the Before the Big Day YouTube channel.