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.

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Topics We Covered

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...

Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

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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!

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Topics and Questions That Were Covered

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...

Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

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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.

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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

www.ewedinsurance.com

eWed Instagram

eWed Facebook

eWed Tiktok

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

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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. 

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Episode Takeaways:

Featured Businesses and Special Offers:

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...

Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

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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!

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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

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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.

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Topics and Questions That Were Covered

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...

Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

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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!

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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 [email protected] for any questions or inquiries.

Links We Referenced

Raven on Instagram

Raven’s Website

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...

Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

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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. 

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Topics We Covered

Links We Referenced

Danielle’s book – Fighting for Our Friendships 

Danielle on TikTok

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...

Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

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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! 

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Links We Referenced

Courtney on Instagram

Poshmark

https://wildalchemyphotos.com/

https://www.thicketfloraldesign.com

Oak Leaf Cottage Website

Oak Leaf Cottage on Instagram

KG Events Design Website

KG Events Design on Instagram

Ring Bear Website

Ring Bear on Instagram

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...

Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

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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.

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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 [email protected].

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...

Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices