Host: Julia | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Meet the Guest: Allyson | Website | Instagram

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Summary

In this episode, Julia sits down with Ally — the planning powerhouse behind The Social Edit — for a wedding-planning crash course that feels less like a lecture and more like a glass-of-wine chat with your most organized friend.

Together, they unpack the real first steps of planning (hint: it’s not picking a color palette; it’s actually enjoying being engaged for five minutes). Ally breaks down how to talk budget without breaking into a cold sweat, why photography deserves a front-row seat in your priorities, and how to have those “so… who’s paying for what?” conversations without wanting to evaporate into thin air.

They dive into the art of choosing vendors you actually vibe with, decoding venue contracts (because yes, that tiny line about linen fees matters), and why hiring a coordinator can save your wedding and your sanity. There’s also some honest talk about being a people-pleaser in the industry, the rise of content creators at weddings, and how to stay grounded when the planning process starts to feel like a full-time job.

From navigating family dynamics to avoiding last-minute planning chaos, this episode is packed with practical advice, comforting reassurance, and more than a few “ohhhh that makes sense” moments. If you’re newly engaged, mid-planning, or spiraling somewhere in between, consider this your permission slip to breathe — and your cheat sheet for planning a day that actually feels like you.

Keywords

wedding planning, budget, vendors, photography, wedding coordinator, engagement, wedding tips, wedding advice, wedding budget, wedding vendors, wedding planning, wedding coordinator, venue contracts, decision fatigue, content creation, family photos, wedding timelines, referrals, client availability, wedding oversights

Host: Julia | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Meet the Guest: Sinead | Website | Instagram

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Sinead Dubeau, a queer wedding photographer, discusses the importance of inclusivity in the wedding industry. She emphasizes the need for inclusive language and representation for all couples, particularly those from marginalized communities. The discussion covers the evolution of inclusivity conversations, the significance of creating safe spaces, and the challenges vendors face in adopting inclusive practices. Sinead shares personal experiences and insights on how to navigate these issues while ensuring that all couples feel seen and valued in their wedding planning process.

Host: Julia | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Meet the Guest: Tia | Website | Instagram

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In this episode of Toast the Roast, Julia and Tia discuss the challenges and triumphs of relocating a business. Tia shares her personal journey of moving from Ontario to a small town, emphasizing the importance of mindset, community building, and effective marketing strategies in a new location. They explore the emotional aspects of starting over, the significance of networking, and the potential for personal and professional growth that comes with embracing change. Tia offers valuable advice for those considering a move, highlighting the need to take risks and remain open to new opportunities.

Host: Julia | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Meet the Guest: Martina | Website | Instagram

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Martina Asgari-Majd, with Parisa Social Events, shares her journey from the corporate fashion world to becoming a successful wedding planner. Martina discusses the pivotal moments that led her to pursue event production, the challenges of freelancing, and the importance of marketing oneself in the industry. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring wedding planners, emphasizing the significance of networking and utilizing social media platforms for success.

Host: Julia | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Meet the Guest: Kellie | Website | Instagram

Got a Question or a Wedding Horror Story?

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In this episode of Toast the Roast, Kellie from Fancy That Cake shares her journey into the world of wedding cakes, discussing everything from pricing and serving sizes to the art of decoration and the importance of communication with couples. She emphasizes the challenges of the wedding industry, the trends she loves and dislikes, and offers valuable advice for couples planning their big day. The conversation is filled with insights into the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating the perfect wedding cake, as well as the importance of understanding the costs associated with wedding desserts.

Host: Julia | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Meet the Guest: Staci | Website | Instagram

Got a Question or a Wedding Horror Story?

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In this episode, Staci Brucks of Staci Brucks Photo, opens up about her journey to becoming a full-time wedding photographer with a calendar that rivals a rockstar’s tour schedule. She and Julia dive into what it really takes to make it in this industry—from staying consistent on social media to embracing tech-forward marketing tools like Ray-Ban smart glasses (yes, really).

Staci gets candid about the balance between chasing trends and staying authentic, and why passion and storytelling will always outshine the algorithm. They also chat about destination weddings, building a business with intention, avoiding burnout, and how AI is shifting the creative process. Whether you’re a photographer, creative, or just someone curious about how people turn dreams into full-blown careers—this one’s packed with insight and inspiration.

Host: Julia | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Meet the Guest: Griselda | Instagram

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In this episode, Julia and Griselda, a content creator from the Detroit area, discuss content creators. They discuss Griselda's journey from social media to content creation, the evolving role of content creators in the wedding industry, and the emotional significance of capturing moments for couples. Griselda shares insights on client expectations, the importance of booking vendors early, and the unique value content creators bring compared to traditional videographers. The conversation highlights the balance between capturing authentic moments and the desire for viral content, emphasizing the lasting impact of memories for couples and their families. In this conversation, Griselda and Julia discuss various aspects of wedding planning, focusing on the role of children in weddings, the importance of vendor relationships, and the nuances of content creation for weddings. They explore how to negotiate with vendors, the significance of initial meetings, and the balance between branding and wedding content. The discussion also touches on the impact of trends in the wedding industry and the value that content creators bring to the table.

Host: Julia | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Meet the Guest: Becca | Website | Instagram

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Becca Mai of Wed2You and I discuss the importance of automation in the wedding industry while maintaining a personal touch. We explore common fears associated with automation, practical strategies for implementing it effectively, and the balance between efficiency and human connection. Becca shares insights on choosing the right CRM, customizing workflows, and the significance of personal responses in automated communications. The conversation emphasizes that automation should enhance, not replace, the human experience in client interactions.

Host: Julia | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Meet the Guest: James | Website | Instagram

Got a Question or a Wedding Horror Story?

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In this conversation, Julia and James Wolf of James Wolf Photography delve into the intricacies of running a photography business, covering essential topics such as business structures, financial tracking, pricing strategies, and the importance of valuing oneself as a creative. They share personal experiences and practical advice for aspiring photographers, emphasizing the significance of separating personal and business finances, understanding client relationships, and the mindset shifts necessary for success in the creative industry.

Disclaimer: We are not financial advisors. Please reach out to a professional for any business questions. This is soley based on our experiences.

Host: Julia | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Meet the Guest: James | Website | Instagram

Got a Question or a Wedding Horror Story?

Email me at: [email protected]

In this conversation, Julia chats with James Wolf, a destination wedding photographer, about his journey from a hobbyist to a professional. They discuss the importance of finding a niche in photography, the value of second shooting, and the multifaceted nature of wedding photography. James shares insights on building a brand, the role of SEO, and how social media has been crucial for his business. The conversation highlights the evolution of photography styles and the significance of embracing one's unique approach in a competitive industry. In this engaging conversation, Julia shares her journey from a mundane office job to becoming a successful photographer, navigating the chaotic world of wedding photography, and eventually finding her niche in boudoir and elopements. She discusses the importance of community in the photography industry, the evolution of her gear, and offers valuable advice for photographers feeling isolated. The conversation also touches on the fine line of gatekeeping within the creative community, emphasizing the need for support and collaboration among photographers.

And... we laugh way too much.