Venue or guest list—which one comes first? I get this question all the time, and my answer is clear: make the guest list first.

In this episode, I walk you through why starting here gives you more clarity, less stress, and way fewer regrets down the road. We’ll talk about how to actually make that list (even when family dynamics are messy), why it’s the real roadmap for your planning, and how it helps you find a venue that actually works. It’s not easy—but it’s worth it.

✨ Let’s stay connected

Instagram: ⁠⁠@birdcageandblushersweddings⁠⁠

Work with me: ⁠⁠https://www.birdcageandblushers.com/contact-chicago-wedding-planner⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

In this special episode, I’m joined by my fiancé to share how we’ve navigated our own wedding planning process as a couple. From budget convos and venue visits to decision fatigue and division of labor—this is a real, behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like when a planner gets engaged and suddenly becomes the client. (Spoiler: it’s still hard sometimes.) We talk about communication, compromise, and why having each other’s back is the most important part of it all.

Vendor Shout outs:

Caterer: Food For Thought Catering: Event & Business Catering in Chicago | Food For ThoughtCustom Stationery: The Word Paperie Design

The Word Paperie Design: Elevated Stationery for Memorable Events

✨ Let’s stay connected

Instagram: ⁠@birdcageandblushersweddings⁠

Work with me: ⁠https://www.birdcageandblushers.com/contact-chicago-wedding-planner⁠

Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠

Not sure if you need a full-service planner, just a little coordination help, or something in between? In this episode, I walk through the different types of wedding planning support available—what they mean, what’s included, and who they’re best for.

Whether you’re Type A, overwhelmed, or somewhere in between, you’ll walk away with more clarity (and a lot less guilt) around getting help.

✨ Let’s stay connectedInstagram: ⁠@birdcageandblushersweddings⁠

Work with me: ⁠https://www.birdcageandblushers.com/contact-chicago-wedding-planner⁠

Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠

In this first episode, I’m sharing why I created Handled—and why planning a wedding is about so much more than checklists and color palettes.

As a wedding planner and a bride, I’ve seen how overwhelming this process can be—not just logistically, but emotionally. So this podcast is here to support you through both.

Whether you’re in the early stages or deep in the details, I hope this episode helps you feel seen, supported, and a little more grounded as you plan.

🎧 Listen in and let’s get into it.

✨ Let’s stay connected
Instagram: @birdcageandblushersweddings

Work with me: https://www.birdcageandblushers.com/contact-chicago-wedding-planner

Email: [email protected]

Welcome to Handled, a wedding planning podcast for modern couples who want more than checklists and timelines. Hosted by Alyson Thompson—Chicago-based wedding planner, bride-to-be, and founder of Birdcage and Blushers Weddings—this show explores both the how and the heart behind getting married.

Each episode blends real talk and reflection to support you through the emotional, logistical, and very human side of planning a wedding. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just need someone to say, “yes, that’s normal”—you’re in the right place.

Follow now and get ready to plan with more clarity, more calm, and a whole lot more support.

✨ Let’s stay connected
Instagram: @birdcageandblushersweddings
Work with me: https://www.birdcageandblushers.com/contact-chicago-wedding-plannerEmail: [email protected]