Many people marry later in life—but dating, partnering, and planning a wedding after 40 is a whole different vibe. In this heart-first convo, my dear friend Stacey Beaman—multi-passionate entrepreneur, co-founder of Plyojam, and newly engaged 40-something—shares how a career pivot, a pandemic slow-down, and one perfectly timed Tinder message led to a grounded, joyful love with her fiancé, Ryan. We talk consistency over chaos, moving in (with the Star Wars collectibles), sharing dog custody with an ex, and why hope + self-trust matter more than timelines. Plus: her forest-chapel proposal and a rapid-fire “40-Year-Old Bride” gift-registry game.

About our guest

Stacey Beaman is a marketer and movement maker. She runs a small-business marketing practice and co-founded Plyojam, a sexy, sweaty, super-fun cardio dance format empowering thousands to shake it out and feel amazing. Spiritually centered and community-driven, Stacey believes the world thrives on the love and grace we offer each other.

• IG: @staceybeeman

What we cover

• Healing, identity, and dating after a brief first marriage
• Letting your career be your love story—for a season
• The injury + pandemic pause that clarified what she really wanted
• Safety, sanity, and swipe stories (including a “Tinder Swindler”-era stakeout by yours truly 🙋🏻‍♀️)
• Meeting her now-fiancé from high school—decades later—via Tinder
• Why consistency is Stacey’s greenest flag
• Moving in after 40: compromise, communication, and… vintage Jabba the Hutt
• Sharing custody of a dog with an ex (and what that says about character)
• The forest-chapel proposal at Mammoth’s Twin Lakes
• Advice for brides-to-be in their 40s, 50s, 60s: stay open, don’t “waste the wait,” and rethink the “perfect package”

Stacey’s takeaways:

• “My business was my love story for a long time.”
• “Consistency is the green flag. No games—just steady care.”
• “Don’t waste the wait. Live fully so you’re interesting to yourself, too.”
• “Love rarely arrives in the package you pictured. Focus on what actually matters.”

Connect with Stacey:

• Instagram: @staceybeaman
• DM for small-business marketing support & Playa Jam class info

Connect with Carrie:

• Instagram: @carriemurray
• YouTube: Carrie On!
• Web: carrie-murray.com

Sponsors of this episode:

• Ready for TED with Toni Purry — 8-week program to craft your big idea and hit the red circle.
• Two Peacocks Travel — group adventures for women that blend connection, growth, and purpose.