Weddings 101

Weddings 101

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Weddings 101 episodes

  • Live Wedding Portraits with Autumn Hunter Fine Art: A Meaningful Keepsake for Modern Brides | Live Wedding Portrait Artist Highlight Ep. 014

    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

    48 min
  • Wedding Beauty Tips From a Pro: Natural Glam With Allyson’s Chair | Bridal Hair & Makeup Artist Highlight Ep. 013

    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

    48 min
  • How to Find and Hire Your Big Three Vendors: Photographer, Caterer, & Officiant | Ep. 012
    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.
    10 min
  • How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue and Set Your Ideal Date | Ep. 011
    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.
    8 min
  • How to Build Your Wedding Guest List Without the Stress | Ep. 010
    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.
    7 min
  • Modern Fall Wedding in Jersey City, NJ: Venue Selection, Vendor Planning, & Must Ask Questions | Bride Highlight Ep. 009

    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. Hair/Makeup: @glambeautyteam_ Flowers: @thefloristbyluz Photo/Video: @weareshootmedia Violinist: @impulsestrings DJ: @deejay_imb (Elite Entertainment)

    1 hr 7 min
  • How to Define Your Wedding Vision & Priorities | Ep. 008
    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!
    6 min
  • How to Set (And Actually Stick to) Your Wedding Budget | Ep. 007
    Your wedding budget is the foundation for almost every decision you'll make during the planning process, so it's important to get it right from the start.
    In this episode of Weddings 101, I’m walking you through how to set a realistic and flexible budget, how to structure it around your priorities, and how to actually stick to it without feeling like you’re cutting out all the fun. We’ll talk about building your ideal, maximum, and emergency cushion budgets, how to allocate funds across major categories like venue, photography, attire, and more, and how to keep track of every expense along the way.
    If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the numbers, this episode will help you approach your budget with confidence and clarity.
    6 min
  • 12 Steps to Wedding Planning: What Every Couple Needs to Know | Ep. 006
    Before diving into checklists and timelines, it's important to understand the big picture.
    In this solo episode, I walk you through the 12 key steps every couple should focus on when planning their wedding.
    From setting your vision and budget to choosing vendors and planning guest experiences, these steps will give you a strong foundation and help you feel more in control from the start.
    Whether you're newly engaged or just getting serious about planning, this episode is the perfect place to begin.
    30 min
  • So You’ve Been Asked to Be Maid of Honor: Here’s What You Need to Know | Bridal Party Highlight Ep. 005

    Been asked to be a Maid of Honor and not sure where to start? You’re not alone! In this episode, I break down everything you need to know about stepping into this important role with confidence. 🎀 From understanding expectations, bridal shower and bachelorette party planning, wedding day duties, and writing your speech, to handling stress and supporting the bride — I cover the most common questions first-time maids of honor have (and the ones nobody warns you about). Whether you're wondering how involved you should be, what to pack for the big day, or how to navigate emotions and bridal party drama, this episode is packed with practical tips, honest advice, and real talk to help you be the best Maid of Honor you can be. 💍✨ Tune in for a full rundown, plus quick tips you’ll actually want to remember when the big day comes!

    47 min

About Weddings 101

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Weddings 101 features interviews with brides, bridal party members, venue owners, and wedding vendors, offering real-life insights and practical tips from every corner of the wedding world. We know…