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Does anyone actually eat the wedding cake? How much should you budget? And is fruitcake finally dead? 🍰

We are looking back on one of our favourite episodes of season 2, and we're joined by Cheshire wedding cake designer Rhian, who shares everything couples should know before booking their wedding cake.

From choosing flavours your guests will actually eat to avoiding expensive mistakes, this episode is packed with honest advice, behind-the-scenes secrets and practical wedding planning tips.

We discuss:

• Why couples should stop under-ordering wedding cake
• Wedding cake trends for 2026 & 2027
• Buttercream vs fondant
• The biggest mistakes couples make
• How far in advance to book your cake
• Wedding cake budgets explained
• Why your wedding cake probably won't melt in summer
• Whether supermarket wedding cakes are worth it
• Why nobody wants fruitcake anymore
• The truth about saving your top tier

If you're currently planning your wedding, this episode is full of useful advice that could save you money while helping you choose a cake your guests will actually remember.

Subscribe to Totally Absolutely Engaged for weekly conversations with trusted wedding experts, honest supplier advice and practical planning tips.

Support the show

Get social and follow us on Instagram where you can get in touch with any questions https://www.instagram.com/totallyabsolutelyengaged/

Or check out our website https://www.totallyabsolutelyengaged.co.uk for blogs, contact information and more!

Check out theaddedextra.co.uk or follow here https://www.instagram.com/theaddedextra?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Follow Rhian here https://www.instagram.com/bake_a_licious_cheshire?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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It's time for the final I Do or I Don't? episode, where the Totally Absolutely Engaged team give their brutally honest opinions on some of the biggest wedding planning debates.

Would you wear a black wedding dress? Are weekday weddings actually worth it? Should children leave the dancefloor after 9pm? Is a champagne tower a must-have or a complete waste of money?

This episode covers some of the most talked-about wedding trends of 2026, with plenty of laughs, disagreements and controversial takes along the way.

In this episode we discuss:

• Black and coloured wedding dresses
• Weekday weddings vs weekend weddings
• Champagne towers
• Spending more on your dress than your honeymoon
• Dogs and pets as ring bearers
• Adults-only dancefloors after 9pm
• Asking guests not to wear certain colours
• Outfit changes during the reception
• Drone photography
• Private vows before the ceremony
• Sparkler exits
• Splitting wedding costs between families
• Eloping vs having a big wedding

Whether you're newly engaged, halfway through planning your wedding, or simply love hearing different opinions from wedding professionals, this episode is packed with ideas that might just change your mind.

🎧 Subscribe for weekly wedding planning advice, real supplier insight and honest conversations from inside the UK wedding industry.

Support the show

Get social and follow us on Instagram where you can get in touch with any questions https://www.instagram.com/totallyabsolutelyengaged/

Or check out our website https://www.totallyabsolutelyengaged.co.uk for blogs, contact information and more!

Check out theaddedextra.co.uk or follow here https://www.instagram.com/theaddedextra?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Follow Rhian here https://www.instagram.com/bake_a_licious_cheshire?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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Planning your wedding flowers? In this episode of Totally Absolutely Engaged, we're joined by Jen from Peony Rose Florist to answer the questions every engaged couple wants to know before booking their florist.

From how much wedding flowers actually cost to choosing seasonal blooms, avoiding expensive trends and making the most of your budget, this episode is packed with honest advice that could save you money and help you get the look you've always wanted.

Jen takes us behind the scenes of being a wedding florist, revealing everything that happens before your flowers arrive on the big day, from ordering and conditioning flowers to dealing with unpredictable British weather and creating bespoke floral designs that perfectly complement each couple.

We also answer your listener questions, including whether DIY wedding flowers are worth it, how to maximise your floral budget, when to book your florist, which flowers photograph beautifully, and why trusting your wedding suppliers can make all the difference.

If you're planning your wedding and want expert advice on bridal bouquets, buttonholes, ceremony flowers, table centrepieces and creating beautiful wedding flowers without overspending, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode:

• How much should you budget for wedding flowers?

• Why seasonal flowers save money

• The biggest wedding flower mistakes couples make

• Fresh vs artificial wedding flowers

• Can you DIY your wedding flowers?

• How to get the biggest impact from your floral budget

• Why trends could end up costing you more

Whether you're newly engaged or finalising your wedding plans, this episode will help you make informed decisions and get the most from your wedding florist.

Support the show

Get social and follow us on Instagram where you can get in touch with any questions https://www.instagram.com/totallyabsolutelyengaged/

Or check out our website https://www.totallyabsolutelyengaged.co.uk for blogs, contact information and more!

Check out theaddedextra.co.uk or follow here https://www.instagram.com/theaddedextra?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Follow Rhian here https://www.instagram.com/bake_a_licious_cheshire?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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This week on Totally Absolutely Engaged, we're joined by Lee from Henry D. Johnstone Jewellers, an award-winning family run jeweller known for helping couples find engagement rings, wedding rings and bespoke jewellery they'll treasure forever. 

We discuss:
• How engagement ring shopping actually works
• Lab-grown diamonds vs natural diamonds
• Current engagement ring trends
• Choosing the right wedding rings
• Creating bespoke jewellery
• How to get the most value from your budget
• Expert advice for newly engaged couples

If you're planning a proposal, shopping for wedding rings or simply looking for expert wedding advice, this episode is packed with insights to help you make confident decisions.

Support the show

Get social and follow us on Instagram where you can get in touch with any questions https://www.instagram.com/totallyabsolutelyengaged/

Or check out our website https://www.totallyabsolutelyengaged.co.uk for blogs, contact information and more!

Check out theaddedextra.co.uk or follow here https://www.instagram.com/theaddedextra?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Follow Rhian here https://www.instagram.com/bake_a_licious_cheshire?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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In this episode of Totally Absolutely Engaged, wedding professionals Paul, Isla and Esme are back with Part 2 of I Do or I Don't?, debating some of the biggest wedding trends couples are talking about right now.

From first looks and destination weddings to personalised vows, unplugged ceremonies, matching bridesmaid dresses, signature cocktails and choreographed first dances, the team shares honest opinions, real wedding industry insight and practical advice for engaged couples planning their big day.

Whether you're newly engaged, deep into wedding planning or simply looking for fresh wedding inspiration, this episode will help you decide which wedding traditions and modern trends are right for you.

🎙️ Topics covered:
• First look wedding photos
• Destination weddings
• Unplugged ceremonies
• Personalised wedding vows
• Matching bridesmaid dresses
• Choreographed first dances
• Signature wedding cocktails
• Modern wedding trends for 2026

If you're looking for wedding planning advice, wedding ideas and expert insights from experienced suppliers, this episode is for you.

Support the show

Get social and follow us on Instagram where you can get in touch with any questions https://www.instagram.com/totallyabsolutelyengaged/

Or check out our website https://www.totallyabsolutelyengaged.co.uk for blogs, contact information and more!

Check out theaddedextra.co.uk or follow here https://www.instagram.com/theaddedextra?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Follow Rhian here https://www.instagram.com/bake_a_licious_cheshire?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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Wedding awards are everywhere in the wedding industry but what do they actually mean for engaged couples?

In this episode of Totally Absolutely Engaged, we're unpacking our experience at the latest wedding awards, discussing what goes on behind the scenes, what judges are really looking for, and whether awards should influence your supplier decisions.

From industry recognition and supplier credibility to the realities of entering awards and what couples should focus on when choosing their wedding team, this is an honest conversation about one of the most talked-about topics in the wedding world.

Whether you're newly engaged, planning your wedding, or currently searching for wedding suppliers, this episode will help you understand how wedding awards work and what really matters when booking the people who will bring your day to life.

Topics covered:
• Wedding industry awards explained
• Are wedding awards important?
• Choosing wedding suppliers
• Award-winning wedding businesses
• Wedding planning advice
• What couples should look for when booking suppliers
• Behind the scenes of wedding awards
• UK wedding industry insights

🎧 Available wherever you listen to podcasts.
📲 Follow Totally Absolutely Engaged for weekly wedding planning advice, supplier insights and real wedding conversations.

Support the show

Get social and follow us on Instagram where you can get in touch with any questions https://www.instagram.com/totallyabsolutelyengaged/

Or check out our website https://www.totallyabsolutelyengaged.co.uk for blogs, contact information and more!

Check out theaddedextra.co.uk or follow here https://www.instagram.com/theaddedextra?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Follow Rhian here https://www.instagram.com/bake_a_licious_cheshire?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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This week on Totally Absolutely Engaged, Paul and Isla are joined by Matt and Joey from Dirtbag Entertainment and The Hustle to discuss everything couples need to know about wedding entertainment.

From building one of the UK's most exciting alternative wedding entertainment companies to performing hundreds of weddings, Matt and Joey share their expert advice on choosing the right wedding band, creating an unforgettable wedding reception, and avoiding some of the biggest mistakes couples make when planning their big day.

The conversation covers live music, wedding venues, sound limiters, venue curfews, alternative weddings, wedding trends, father-daughter dances, crowd surfing, mosh pits, and why your wedding should reflect you rather than everyone else's expectations.

If you're currently planning your wedding and want to create an incredible atmosphere that your guests will talk about long after the day is over, this episode is packed with practical tips, honest opinions, and plenty of laughs.

Topics covered:
• Wedding bands vs DJs
• Alternative wedding entertainment
• Venue sound restrictions explained
• How to choose the perfect wedding band
• Wedding reception planning tips
• Creating an unforgettable guest experience
• Modern wedding trends
• Wedding music advice
• Live entertainment ideas
• Wedding planning mistakes to avoid

Totally Absolutely Engaged is the wedding planning podcast helping couples navigate the world of weddings with expert guests, honest conversations, and real-life advice from the industry's leading suppliers.

Available wherever you listen to podcasts.

Support the show

Get social and follow us on Instagram where you can get in touch with any questions https://www.instagram.com/totallyabsolutelyengaged/

Or check out our website https://www.totallyabsolutelyengaged.co.uk for blogs, contact information and more!

Check out theaddedextra.co.uk or follow here https://www.instagram.com/theaddedextra?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Follow Rhian here https://www.instagram.com/bake_a_licious_cheshire?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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This week on Totally Absolutely Engaged, Paul and Isla are joined by Pete and Philip, the brilliant duo behind Crazy Nine Golf, the multi-award winning wedding entertainment company transforming drinks receptions across the UK with their handcrafted mobile crazy golf course.

From a chance conversation at a family gathering to becoming one of the most sought after wedding suppliers in the country, Pete and Philip share the incredible story behind Crazy Nine Golf, the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences, and why they've never had to cancel a wedding despite the unpredictable British weather.

The conversation dives into:

• How Crazy Nine Golf was created
• What makes their wedding entertainment unique
• The importance of guest experience at weddings
• Funny wedding day stories and memorable moments
• Why crazy golf appeals to all ages
• Wedding planning advice from experienced suppliers
• How to keep guests entertained throughout the day
• The challenges of building a premium wedding business
• New obstacles and exciting developments coming to Crazy Nine Golf

You'll also hear plenty of laughs, behind the scenes insights from hundreds of weddings, and practical tips for couples planning their big day.

If you're looking for unique wedding entertainment ideas, planning a wedding in the UK, or simply love hearing stories from passionate wedding professionals, this episode is for you.

⭐ Follow the podcast for weekly episodes
⭐ Leave a review if you enjoy the show
⭐ Share with anyone planning their wedding

Support the show

Get social and follow us on Instagram where you can get in touch with any questions https://www.instagram.com/totallyabsolutelyengaged/

Or check out our website https://www.totallyabsolutelyengaged.co.uk for blogs, contact information and more!

Check out theaddedextra.co.uk or follow here https://www.instagram.com/theaddedextra?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Follow Rhian here https://www.instagram.com/bake_a_licious_cheshire?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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Would you ban kids from your wedding? Should bridesmaids pay for their own dresses? And are wedding favours actually pointless? 👀

In this hilarious and brutally honest episode of Totally Absolutely Engaged, we’re joined by Esme from behind the scenes as we play “I Do or I Don’t” — the ultimate wedding debate game where we blind react to some of the most controversial wedding trends and traditions.

From open bars and DIY weddings to videographers, plus ones, save the dates, wedding websites and live bands, nothing is off limits. Expect strong opinions, chaotic debates, wedding planning tips, supplier insights and plenty of laughs along the way.

In this episode:
✨ Wedding playlists vs DJs reading the room
✨ Child-free weddings — rude or reasonable?
✨ Should bridesmaids pay for dresses?
✨ Open bars: dream wedding or total disaster?
✨ DIY weddings and wedding websites
✨ Videographer vs content creator
✨ Wedding favours, save the dates & bridesmaid proposals
✨ Cash gifts vs traditional wedding presents
✨ Suit hire for grooms and groomsmen

Whether you’re newly engaged, planning your wedding, or work in the wedding industry, this episode is packed with relatable wedding chat, unpopular opinions and real talk from people who see weddings every single day.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify & Apple Podcasts
📺 Watch on YouTube
📲 Follow us on TikTok & Instagram: @totallyabsolutelyengaged

Support the show

Get social and follow us on Instagram where you can get in touch with any questions https://www.instagram.com/totallyabsolutelyengaged/

Or check out our website https://www.totallyabsolutelyengaged.co.uk for blogs, contact information and more!

Check out theaddedextra.co.uk or follow here https://www.instagram.com/theaddedextra?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Follow Rhian here https://www.instagram.com/bake_a_licious_cheshire?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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In this special bonus episode of Totally Absolutely Engaged, we dive into the business side of the wedding industry with Duane from County Brides — one of the North West’s most recognised wedding marketing platforms.

Following on from our previous County Brides episode dedicated to engaged couples, this supplier-focused special is packed with honest advice, marketing strategies, wedding fair tips, networking insights, and industry truths for wedding professionals looking to grow in 2026 and beyond.

Duane shares decades of experience from attending over 200 wedding fairs a year, running the famous County Brides Wedding Awards, and helping suppliers build visibility, bookings, and long-term success in an increasingly competitive wedding industry.

In this episode, we discuss:

✨ Why too many venue open days could be damaging the wedding industry
✨ How wedding fairs should actually work for suppliers and venues
✨ The biggest wedding trends for 2026 including sage green, monochrome weddings & tropical colour palettes
✨ Why consistent marketing beats “being the best”
✨ The truth about supplier networking and referrals
✨ How to stand out as a new wedding business
✨ Why suppliers MUST ask for the booking
✨ The importance of LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube & Google for wedding marketing
✨ County Brides Wedding Awards explained — and how finalists are chosen fairly
✨ Why visibility, consistency and relationships matter more than ever in the wedding industry

Whether you're a wedding photographer, DJ, florist, venue stylist, content creator, celebrant, videographer, entertainment supplier, venue owner, or just starting your wedding business — this episode is full of practical advice, real industry insight, and honest conversations.

If you work in the wedding industry in the North West or beyond, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

🎧 Listen now and discover how to market smarter, network better, and grow your wedding business in 2026.

Support the show

Get social and follow us on Instagram where you can get in touch with any questions https://www.instagram.com/totallyabsolutelyengaged/

Or check out our website https://www.totallyabsolutelyengaged.co.uk for blogs, contact information and more!

Check out theaddedextra.co.uk or follow here https://www.instagram.com/theaddedextra?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Follow Rhian here https://www.instagram.com/bake_a_licious_cheshire?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==