You’ve booked your venue, photographer, and caterer. Now what?

In this episode of Weddings 101, I walk you through exactly when to book every other wedding vendor on your list, from florists and rentals to hair and makeup, signage, transportation, and more.

I'll cover common booking mistakes, what questions to ask, and the planning details most couples don’t find out until it’s too late. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what’s next in your wedding planning timeline, this episode gives you a clear, step-by-step path forward.

Choosing a wedding photographer is about more than just their portfolio. It’s about finding someone who understands your story, helps you feel completely at ease, and captures the moments that truly matter.

In this episode of Weddings 101, I sit down with Raleigh-based wedding photographer Ivy Ren to unpack what couples should really consider before booking their wedding photographer.

We talk about what makes a photographer the right fit, how to tell if someone will bring out your natural connection on camera, and why referrals and personal rapport are more important than ever.

Ivy shares her best tips for creating a timeline around perfect lighting, how to navigate emotional or unexpected moments, and how a photographer’s presence shapes your entire day. We also explore the difference between film and digital photography and how couples can prepare to feel relaxed, grounded, and confident in their photos.

If you want meaningful, timeless images that reflect your love story and not just a checklist, this episode will help you choose a photographer who captures more than just the surface.

Want to connect with Ivy or see more of her work? Follow her on Instagram @ivy__ren or visit her website https://www.ivyren.com/weddings/

Wedding dress shopping is one of the most memorable moments of the entire wedding planning process, but it can also bring questions, pressure, and unexpected stress.

In this episode, I cover everything you need to know about choosing your wedding gown and coordinating the rest of your bridal party’s attire.

From the ideal timeline to start dress shopping to tips on staying within budget, I walk through the process step by step, including how to prepare for fittings, what to bring to your bridal appointments, and how to know when you've found "the one."

You'll also hear advice for choosing bridesmaid dresses, ideas for coordinating with your groom’s look without revealing your gown, and ways to ensure parents of the couple look stylish and coordinated without overshadowing the wedding palette.

Whether you have twelve months or six weeks to go, this episode will help you feel prepared, supported, and excited as you shop for the perfect look for your big day.

Looking for a meaningful, one-of-a-kind keepsake to remember your wedding day? In this episode of Weddings 101, I speak with Autumn Hunter, a live wedding portrait artist, about how she turns wedding moments into heirloom-quality oil paintings.

Autumn shares everything brides need to know about what a live painting actually looks like on the wedding day, how she captures the emotion and essence of your love story, and why more couples are choosing wedding art as a timeless investment. We also dive into her signature collage technique that layers meaningful mementos like ticket stubs, vows, and even pet paw prints, into the base of each canvas.

Whether you're considering booking a live painter or just exploring creative ways to personalize your wedding, this episode is full of planning tips, booking advice, and heartwarming behind-the-scenes stories.

Want to connect with Autumn or see more of her work? Follow her on Instagram @autumnhunter.art or visit her website autumnhunter.art

Planning your wedding look and searching for bridal hair and makeup that lets you look like you while highlighting your natural beauty? In this episode, I talk with Allyson Smith, the lead stylist and owner of Allyson’s Chair, about how to create a wedding day look that feels authentic, timeless, and effortlessly beautiful.

From when to book your beauty team to what to bring to your bridal trial, Allyson offers expert insights drawn from years of experience specializing in soft glam, natural looks that help you feel like your most beautiful self. You’ll learn how to create a timeless bridal style, how to prep your skin and hair in the months leading up to your wedding, and why airbrush makeup and false lashes can be total game changers.

This episode is perfect for brides who want to feel confident, radiant, and relaxed on their big day. It’s filled with practical advice, trusted product recommendations, and an inside look at how a true professional prepares you for the spotlight.

Whether you’re dreaming of glam waves or a classic low bun, this is the bridal beauty breakdown every bride should hear.

Want to connect with Allyson or see more of her work? Follow her on Instagram @allysonschair or visit her website www.allysons-chair.com

Photo by: Alyssa Joyce Photography

You’ve booked your venue and set the date, and now it’s time to hire your Big Three wedding vendors: your photographer or videographer, caterer, and officiant.

In this episode of Weddings 101, I walk you through everything you need to know to confidently find and book these essential professionals. From narrowing down photography styles to navigating catering options and understanding religious and non-religious officiant requirements, this episode breaks it all down step by step.

You’ll learn where to search, what questions to ask, and how to make sure each vendor fits your vision, style, and budget. This episode gives you the tools and insight to make informed vendor decisions that align with your priorities, style, and guest experience.

Choosing your wedding venue and setting your date are two of the most important and exciting decisions you’ll make during the planning process. In this episode, I share how to approach these choices with clarity and confidence, even if you’ve never planned a wedding before.

I’ll walk you through what to figure out before you start venue shopping, how to narrow down your options based on style and location, and what questions to ask during venue tours. I’ll also talk about how to pick your wedding date strategically so it aligns with your vision, your guests’ needs, and your overall timeline.

Whether you’re just getting started or already comparing brochures, this episode will help you take those next steps without feeling overwhelmed.

Building your wedding guest list can feel like one of the most overwhelming parts of planning, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Weddings 101, I walk you through how to approach creating your guest list.

You’ll learn why your guest count impacts nearly every aspect of your wedding, how to start your list in layers, and ways to navigate tricky conversations around family expectations and finances.

From setting boundaries around plus-ones, to staying organized with spreadsheets and digital tools, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you make thoughtful decisions without second-guessing.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large wedding, you’ll walk away feeling more confident, less stressed, and ready to fill your wedding day with people who truly matter.

In this episode of Weddings 101, we sit down with Makenzee Bettinger to unpack her unforgettable fall wedding in Jersey City, NJ. From locking in a dream venue with city skyline views to planning a surprise choreographed dance with her bridal crew, Makenzee shares advice from her wedding planning journey. We talk through vendor tips, budget strategy, choosing a bridal party, the power of personal vows, and how to stay grounded during planning. Whether you're a Type A bride or just trying to survive your checklist, this episode is packed with real talk and valuable advice.

Vendors:

Hair/Makeup: @glambeautyteam_

Flowers: @thefloristbyluz

Photo/Video: @weareshootmedia

Violinist: @impulsestrings

DJ: @deejay_imb (Elite Entertainment)

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but it gets much easier when you start with a clear vision and a set of priorities. In this episode of Weddings 101, I’ll walk you through how to define what really matters to you and your partner before diving into the details.

You’ll learn how to create a simple wedding mission statement, uncover your top priorities as a couple, and use those to make confident, stress-free decisions throughout the planning process. Whether you're just getting started or feeling pulled in different directions, this episode will help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Share this one with your fiancé or maid of honor, and tag me @weddings101pod to let me know your wedding vision. I’d love to hear it!