Weddings Unscripted

What happens when a mother of the bride knows her limits—and hires a planner to save the day? In this heartfelt episode of Weddings Unscripted, Alex and Alison chat with Stephanie, whose daughter's Chesapeake Bay wedding went off without a hitch thanks to the help of a talented wedding planner.

Stephanie shares what it was like helping plan a destination-inspired wedding in Maryland while the couple lived in Florida, and how her planner, Rebecca Thomas, became her trusted guide, timeline-keeper, and behind-the-scenes "angel." If you're a parent navigating the wedding process, or a planner wondering how to better serve your clients, this one is full of real-life lessons and love.

Episode Timestamps:

[00:01:00] – Meet Stephanie: Mother of the bride

[00:03:00] – Why a shorter wedding timeline was actually a blessing

[00:08:00] – Finding her planner, and why it was the best decision

[00:10:00] – The magic of having "homework" and a timeline from your planner

[00:14:00] – Ceremony by the water, flower details, and signature cocktails

[00:20:00] – Why a planner matters for everyone, not just the couple

[00:28:00] – Behind the music: coordinating the band with precision

[00:34:00] – Advice to other parents on investing in a planner

[00:37:00] – Repurposing florals and the thoughtful touches that made a difference

Key Takeaways:

• A good wedding planner doesn't just manage details—they preserve the entire experience.
• Planners aren't a luxury—they're a necessity when you want to be fully present.
• Choosing a planner early helps shape every decision that follows.
• Behind every calm mother-of-the-bride is a planner with a headset and a timeline.

Resources Mentioned:

• Wedding Planner: Rebecca Thomas
• Venue: The Wylder Hotel on Tilghman Island, Maryland
• Florist: Local woman-owned floral business on Maryland's Eastern Shore

Connect with us:

Visit our website: www.weddingsunscripted.com

Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events: www.cherryblossomwe.com

Follow us on our socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572429101755

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

TikTok: @weddings_unscripted

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Ever wonder what happens when planning your wedding leads to a whole new career path? In this episode of Weddings Unscripted, we're joined by past bride-turned-floral-designer Audrey Klein of Le Jardin Klein. From a Bridgerton-inspired wedding to her first big floral installation, Audrey shares how a magical experience with her wedding florist sparked a full-blown creative journey—and business.

Join us as we catch up with Audrey about her wedding day, her floral "aha" moment, and the real-life logistics of launching a blooming side hustle (complete with a Vespa flower bar and custom tissue paper). Whether you're a wedding lover, creative entrepreneur, or planner watching your client blossom (literally), this episode is heartwarming, honest, and oh-so-inspiring.

What we discuss:

[01:00] – Meet Audrey: Bride, finance analyst, and floral designer

[07:00] – Wedding vision: Bridgerton vibes, blue hydrangeas, and The Perry Belmont House

[10:30] – Choosing a florist: Barbara of Growing Wild and a farm visit

[20:00] – When a wedding inspires a side business: Growing flowers and building a brand

[27:00] – Launching a floral pop-up with a Vespa and heart-led branding

[36:00] – Flowers as love letters: Creating an emotional brand experience

[47:00] – The challenges of solo entrepreneurship and finding your people

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Creative sparks can come from unexpected places—even your own wedding day.
• Working with passionate vendors can inspire life-changing ideas.
• Launching a creative business requires both heart and hustle—from branding to logistics.
• Flowers aren't "just flowers"—they're storytelling tools and emotional expressions.
• Even as a one-woman show, community and mentorship make all the difference.

Resources Mentioned:

• Growing Wild Floral with Barbara – growingwildfloral.com (Barbara's floral farm)
• Lisa Blume Photography
• The Perry Belmont House

Connect with Audrey:

• Website: Le Jardin Klein
• Instagram: @lejardinklein
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575779390803

Connect with us:

Visit our website:

Podcast: www.weddingsunscripted.com

Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events: www.cherryblossomwe.com

Follow us on our socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572429101755

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

TikTok: @weddings_unscripted

Thinking of hosting your wedding at home or under a tent? This episode is your essential reality check.

In this episode of Weddings Unscripted, we're joined by expert planner and author Janice Carnavale of Bellwether Events, who shares hard-won wisdom from decades of producing elevated home weddings.

From rain plans and power logistics to sentimental details and viral disasters, this episode pulls back the curtain on everything that makes tented weddings both magical—and massively complex. Whether you're a couple dreaming of a backyard celebration or a planner who needs to prep your clients with the facts, this one's required listening.

What we discussed:

[04:00] – Bourbon-burying, surprise rainstorms & home wedding traditions

[07:00] – When good intentions go wrong: DIY prep & overdoing it

[14:00] – Hurricane season, disasters & emergency backups

[24:00] – Flooring, power drops, and tent types decoded

[30:00] – Permits, noise ordinances & dealing with neighbors

[38:00] – Why insurance, septic planning & generators matter

[45:00] – What makes tented weddings so special (despite it all)

Key Takeaways:

• Tented weddings = building a venue from scratch. Plan like it.
• Weather is unpredictable. A backup plan isn't optional—it's essential.
• Power, permits, plumbing, and parking need to be sorted first.
• Working with a planner ensures safety, comfort, and beauty.
• Despite the logistics, home weddings are deeply personal and unforgettable.

Resources Mentioned:

Get Janice's eBook: The Elegant At-Home Wedding

Connect with Janice:

Website: https://yourweddingathome.com/

Bellwether Events: https://bellwetherevents.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janice-carnevale-8b844b9/

Instagram: @bellwetherevent

Connect with us:

Visit our website: www.weddingsunscripted.com | www.cherryblossomwe.com

Follow us on our socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572429101755

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

TikTok: @weddings_unscripted

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In one of the sweetest surprises we've ever experienced, a family of ducklings waddled into a wedding ceremony—and straight into the hearts of everyone there. In this feel-good episode of Weddings Unscripted, Alex is joined by Carlene from the Cherry Blossom Events team and Phoebe from Purple Onion Catering to relive the viral moment, now featured in People Magazine.

What started as a beautifully designed wedding with a bird-themed motif turned into an unforgettable story of timing, symbolism, and unexpected joy—complete with 11 ducklings walking right down the aisle.

This episode is packed with behind-the-scenes details, vendor shout-outs, and a reminder that sometimes, the best moments are the ones no one could plan for.

[01:00] – Meet the couple, the venue, and the unexpected visitors

[04:00] – The ducks arrival

[07:00] – How the wedding's bird theme made this moment even more magical

[10:00] – The ducklings walk the aisle (yes, during the ceremony!)

[14:00] – Viral video, People Magazine, and a million views later

[20:00] – How the vendor team came together to share the story

[25:00] – Final reflections: joy, teamwork, and unexpected magic

1. Unexpected moments can become the most memorable parts of a wedding.
2. Nature has a way of showing up—be ready to embrace it with joy.
3. Strong vendor teamwork makes magical moments even more meaningful.
4. Symbolism in wedding design can show up in the most literal ways.
5. It's not just about the details—it's about how the day makes people feel.

• Planning & Design: Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events
• Catering: Purple Onion Catering
• Venue: Decatur House
• Florals: Be Inspired Events
• Photography: Maddy Williams Photography
• Tent: Sugarplum Tent Co.
• Rentals: Curated Events DC
• Entertainment: Dan Goldman Events
• Invitations & Paper Goods: Miranda Lane
• Pies: Pie Shop
• Plants: Plants Alive
• Hair & Makeup: MAB Artistry
• Bride's Dress: amsale
• Groom's Suit: Suit Supply
• Engagement Ring & Wedding Bands: Emily Chelsea Jewelry

Connect with us:

Visit our website: www.weddingsunscripted.com | www.cherryblossomwe.com

Follow us on our socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572429101755

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

TikTok: @weddings_unscripted

This week, Alex and Ali are joined by the incredibly talented Andie Ingagliato from Costola Photography for a candid conversation about what it's really like behind the lens on a wedding day. From artistic inspiration to timeline strategy, Andie opens up about working with high-end clients, building trust with planners, and what makes for truly meaningful photos.

You'll also hear about her experience documenting major events like the Super Bowl (yes, really!), how motherhood shifted her photography approach, and why printed albums still matter in the digital age.

Whether you're a couple planning your big day or a wedding pro looking to work better with photographers, this one is full of laughs, wisdom, and behind-the-scenes truth.

What we discuss:

[00:05:30] – Andie's photography journey & working with her husband

[00:10:00] – Building trust and connection without direct client contact

[00:18:00] – Why family dynamics matter—and how to capture them

[00:27:00] – The first look vs. traditional timeline debate

[00:41:00] – Photography trends Andie loves (and ones she's over)

[00:44:00] – Why albums are worth the investment (and how she teaches it!)

💡 Key Takeaways:

1. Trust and communication between planner and photographer is essential.
2. The first look can free up time and create a better guest experience.
3. Photographers need room to capture real moments—timelines matter!
4. Dance floors = personality gold. Don't underestimate the candid shots.
5. Printed albums preserve your story in a way digital never will.

Learn more about Andie:

Website: https://costolaphotography.com/

Instagram: @costola_photography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CostolaPhotography/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMUKdBs72GicKaHK5aAvjnA

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/costola_photography/

Connect with us:

Visit our website: www.weddingsunscripted.com | www.cherryblossomwe.com

Follow us on our socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572429101755

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

TikTok: @weddings_unscripted

Welcome back to Part 2 of our deep dive into one of the most creatively layered wedding weekends we've ever planned.

In this episode, Alex and Ali break down the full design story behind a four-day luxury wedding—from a sparkle-themed boat arrival to a moody penthouse welcome party and a wedding ceremony dripping in baby's breath and architectural symbolism.

We're taking you inside every design decision, reveal moment, and unexpected wow factor—including a surprise Mardi Gras-style parade and a float that had guests cheering (and dancing) their way into the after party.

If you're a couple looking for intentional, personal design inspiration—or a planner eager to elevate your guest experiences—this episode is packed with ideas and insight you won't want to miss.

What we discussed:

[01:00] – Rehearsal Dinner Design: Sparkle, boat rides & LED-lit elegance

[07:00] – Welcome Party: "Penthouse at Sunset" design and unexpected plant drama

[16:00] – Performance moments: Creating a lounge-like space for live music

[22:00] – Wedding Day Vibes: New Orleans Garden + architectural influences

[30:00] – Surprise Parade & Custom Float Reveal

[40:00] – After Party Transformation: Bourbon Street energy + personalized décor

Key Takeaways:

• Meaningful design starts with personal stories. From architecture to attire, the best themes are rooted in what matters most to the couple.
• Collaboration is key. Bringing a design to life takes detailed planning, trust, and a lot of vendor teamwork.
• Every visual detail counts. From menus to cocktail napkins, each touchpoint builds a branded guest experience.
• Leave space for the unexpected. Thoughtful surprises (like a parade!) create unforgettable memories.
• The "after" matters too. A seamless transition into an after party keeps the energy going and the experience elevated.

• Event Planning & Design: Cherry Blossom Events DC
• Floral & Custom Installs: Edge Floral Event Designers
• Rentals: Something Vintage
• Stationery: Oh Eleven Studio
• DJ: DJ Allure
• Venue: The Renwick Gallery + Andrew Mellon Auditorium
• Live Performer: Veronica Swift

Missed part one? Click here: Ep 8 • Planning a Complex, Four-Day Wedding Weekend with Multiple Events (Part One)

Connect with us:

Visit our website: www.weddingsunscripted.com | www.cherryblossomwe.com

Follow us on our socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572429101755

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

TikTok: @weddings_unscripted

Ever wondered what really goes into planning a wedding with a massive guest lists? In this episode, Alexandra and Alison pull back the curtain on one of the most logistically intense—and emotionally rewarding—weddings they've worked on. From coordinating multiple vendors to adapting on the fly when plans changed, the Cherry Blossom team shares the real behind-the-scenes scoop of what it's like managing such a grand-scale event.

If you're a couple planning a large wedding—or a planner navigating complex client relationships—this one's for you.

What we discussed:

[01:00] – The 200-person wedding: what we walked into and why it was unique.

[06:30] – When there are other planners involved: how we handled shared responsibilities.

[11:45] – Emotional support behind the scenes: helping the bride and groom be present.

[18:20] – The beauty of unexpected vendor collaboration.

[23:15] – A wedding day that reminds us why we do what we do.

[26:40] – Lessons for planners: boundaries, grace, and communication.

Key Takeaways:

• Big Weddings = Big Emotions. Planning a 200-person wedding isn't just about logistics—it's about managing emotions and expectations.

• Adaptability Is Everything. Timelines shift. Great planners adjust without missing a beat.

• Collaboration Has Its Challenges. Working with another planner can be powerful, but only with clear roles and mutual respect.

• Not Everything Can Be "Fixed". Sometimes, all you can do is manage the moment with grace and professionalism.

• Always Reflect and Learn. Post-event debriefs help you grow, evolve, and stay grounded in your purpose.

Connect with us:

Visit our website: www.weddingsunscripted.com | www.cherryblossomwe.com

Follow us on our socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572429101755

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

TikTok: @weddings_unscripted

In this episode of Weddings Unscripted, Alex and Ali share real stories from behind the scenes—those unforgettable (and sometimes hilarious) moments when even the best-laid wedding plans needed some quick thinking and major teamwork.

From battling unexpected weather disasters to sewing a bridesmaid's dress out of a table linen, Alex and Ali reveal what it truly takes to roll with the punches and keep the celebration going strong. Plus, they offer insights on handling "client-zillas," vendor challenges, and those "only at weddings" emergencies that no timeline can predict.

If you're planning a wedding—or just love a good behind-the-scenes story—this episode reminds you why trusting your vendors and staying flexible are the real secrets to a stress-free celebration.

1. Always plan for unexpected weather — Heaters, fans, tents... build flexibility into your wedding budget from day one.
2. Vendor relationships matter. Kindness and teamwork between vendors and couples make all the difference when things go sideways.
3. Having a strong emergency kit is non-negotiable. From stain removal to sewing repairs, it can save the day.
4. Boundaries and respect protect the planning process. Abuse clauses are becoming more common among wedding pros—and for good reason.
5. Stay flexible, stay kind. Some of the best wedding memories come from how gracefully (and creatively) you handle the unexpected.

[01:00] – Dealing with unexpected weather at Oxon Hill Manor

[06:04] – Tent weddings: the realities no one talks about

[13:03] – When wedding favors become a major stress point

[24:04] – Drunk guests, ambulance calls, and vendor boundary setting

[40:02] – How a table linen saved a bridesmaid's day (and dress!)

[56:23] – 23-minute speeches: the ultimate wedding timeline buster

Resources:

Washingtonian Article for Alison Making a Bridesmaid Dress Onsite - https://www.washingtonian.com/2019/11/26/this-wedding-planner-saved-the-day/

Connect with us:

Visit our website: www.weddingsunscripted.com | www.cherryblossomwe.com

Follow us on our socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572429101755

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

TikTok: @weddings_unscripted

When it comes to wedding planning, most couples focus on the big things—venue, dress, caterer, band. But what about the small stuff? In this episode of Weddings Unscripted, we pull back the curtain on the hundreds (yes, hundreds) of little decisions that go into creating a flawless event.

From choosing the right napkin fold to finalizing your last dance song, we walk through the often-overlooked details that shape the entire guest experience—and why having a strong vendor team makes it all so much smoother.

Whether you're deep in the planning process or just starting out, this episode is a must-listen for couples who want to feel informed and empowered.

What we discuss:

[00:01:26] – Why your wedding timeline might be 15+ pages long

[00:04:01] – How to navigate the little choices

[00:14:05] – Place cards vs. escort cards: what's the difference and why it matters

[00:22:45] – Music requests, must-plays, and what DJs & bands really need from you

[00:36:48] – How your engagement shoot helps shape your photo timeline

[00:40:09] – First look or not? Why this one decision can shape your whole day

[00:45:01] – What's on your wedding pack list? (Spoiler: it's a lot)

Key Takeaways:

1. Small details make a big impact. From linen colors to table numbers, the "little things" contribute to the overall vibe more than you might expect.
2. Decision fatigue is real—but manageable. Planners help couples prioritize and simplify so it doesn't all feel overwhelming.
3. Place cards and escort cards are not the same. Understanding the difference helps your event flow more smoothly, especially with plated meals.
4. Music planning matters. Clear communication about your must-plays (and do-not-plays) is key for creating the right energy on your dance floor.
5. Preparation is everything. Having a wedding pack list, a detailed timeline, and an organized vendor team makes all the difference on your big day.

Connect with us:

Visit our website: www.weddingsunscripted.com | www.cherryblossomwe.com

Follow us on our socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572429101755

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

TikTok: @weddings_unscripted

In this episode of Weddings Unscripted, we speak with our good friend and vendor partner, Sarah Lusk from Design Cuisine, a leading catering company in Washington DC. Sarah discusses the history of Design Cuisine, the evolution of catering, the logistics and challenges of off-premise catering, and the importance of understanding venue rules. We also explore current trends in catering, emphasizing the growing demand for personalized menus that reflect couple's heritage and experiences. In this segment of the conversation, we delve into the intricacies of wedding planning in regards to all things catering, particularly focusing on how personal stories can be woven into the dining experience and how a skilled catering team is needed to deliver multi-course experiences.

We also discuss the intricacies of wedding catering, (very different than a restaurant!) emphasizing the importance of planners, the breakdown of catering costs, and the challenges faced in the industry. They highlight the emotional significance of catering in creating lasting memories for families and the necessity of effective communication between caterers and clients for a perfect evening!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Design Cuisine and Catering History

06:05 Logistics and Challenges in Off-Premise Catering

09:02 Understanding Venue Rules and Regulations

17:56 Current Trends in Catering and Personalization

23:02 Incorporating Personal Stories into Weddings

24:32 Creating a Unique Dining Experience

29:17 Logistics of a Multi-Course Dinner

32:50 Trends in Elevated Dining Experiences

38:03 Understanding Venue Logistics

40:14 Crafting Detailed Proposals for Clients

51:50 The Importance of Tastings in Catering

54:43 Behind the Scenes of Catering Tastings

01:11:12 The Role of Wedding Planners in Catering

01:15:03 Understanding Catering Costs and Staffing

01:26:00 Future Topics in Catering and Industry Trends

Key Takeaways:

• Logistics in off-premise catering require meticulous planning.
• Every venue has its own set of rules that caterers must follow and Understanding venue logistics is key to effective planning.
• Communication is key to ensuring all team members are informed.
• Personalization in catering is increasingly popular among couples.
• Event planning often involves adapting to last-minute changes. Incorporating personal stories into wedding menus enhances guest experience.
• A unique dining experience can be achieved through careful menu customization and logistics play a crucial role in executing multi-course dinners successfully.
• Elevated dining experiences are becoming a trend in weddings and the right catering team is essential for flawless execution.
• Staffing costs can be as high as 50% of the catering bill ad understanding the costs involved in catering is important for clients.

Learn more about Design Cuisine:

Website: www.designcuisine.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designcuisine

Instagram: @designcuisine

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-cuisine