The Wedding Dish

I'm flying solo to dive into the questions you sent in, focusing heavily on one of the most critical parts of your wedding day: Photography! I'm answering listener questions about timelines, budgets, and what to do when things go wrong. Tune in as I dish on: The Photo Delivery Wait: Why does it take so long? I share insight on the mental health and personal challenges photographers face and when it's okay to check in on that 6-week to 6-month editing timeline. Managing Delay Drama: Practical advice for checking in with your photographer, and when outsourcing the raw files might be a necessary, albeit tricky, solution. Perfecting Your Photo Timeline: How to structure your 1.5 hours before the ceremony to fit in the First Look, portraits, and wedding party photos without feeling rushed. The Budget Dilemma: Tips on prioritizing your photography budget and focusing your limited time on key moments that matter most. The Editing Trap: Why human editing is crucial for nuance and storytelling (and why relying on AI or free services can be a huge mistake). Send your questions for the next Q&A episode to theweddingdish@gmail.com or DM me on Instagram @theweddingdishpodcast! Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict Bliss17hats. Business just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

We are dishing about how to keep those precious wedding flowers long after the party is over! We sit down with Grace Scott of For Keeps Florals to dive into the beautiful world of flower preservation. Grace shares why turning your bouquet into a piece of art is easier, more popular, and more meaningful than ever. Grab your tea as we dish on: Why flower preservation is skyrocketing in popularity (it's not just sentimentality—think eco-friendliness!). The key differences between professional preservation (like Grace's custom, UV-protected frames) and a DIY approach. Guest: Grace Scott, For Keeps Florals Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict Bliss17hats. Business just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

We are getting down to the most nerve-wracking part of the reception: the wedding speeches! We're sitting down with Holly, a professional speechwriter who transitioned from the world of PR to helping couples and their loved ones craft genuinely meaningful and memorable toasts. She's spilling the tea on how to make your speech a heartfelt moment instead of a painful one. Grab your notebook as we dish on: The must-have ingredients for a truly effective wedding speech (hint: it's all about authenticity and structure). Holly’s golden rule for timing: Why 2-3 minutes is the sweet spot and how to keep it concise and engaging. Advice for brides and grooms on setting clear expectations and time limits for all speakers. Guest: Holly Blum, A Speech to Remember Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict Bliss17hats. Business just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

This week, we're swapping out the usual centerpiece talk for a dose of personalized fun with Shannon McAllister of Happy Dance Hat Bar! Shannon brings her interactive, mobile hat-making experience to weddings and events, transforming a simple favor into a memorable activity. Grab a seat as we dish on: Why a customized Hat Bar is the ultimate, unique, and personalized alternative to traditional wedding favors. How Shannon’s background in corporate event planning inspired this creative wedding concept. Ideas for incorporating the hat bar into every part of your wedding weekend—from the engagement party and bachelorette/bachelor party to the rehearsal dinner or even the post-wedding brunch. Tips for using custom patches and designs to align the hats with your wedding theme, colors, and unique personalities. How hands-on, personalized activities ensure your guests feel included, engaged, and leave with a truly unforgettable keepsake! This episode is packed with joyful inspiration for couples looking to add a playful and interactive element to their celebration. Listen now and get ready to do the "happy dance!" Guest: Shannon McAllister, Happy Dance Hat Bar Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict Bliss17hats. Business just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Just because you have an outdoor venue doesn't mean you should have to compromise on the bathroom. This week, we're dishing about luxury portable restrooms. These climate-controlled, aesthetically pleasing portable bathrooms can expand venue options, enhance the overall event experience, and so much more! Guest: David Sauers, Royal Restrooms Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws This may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

We're dishing about personal style coaching for couples, and for wedding guest attire this week. We cover considering a theme, dress code, venue, and weather when choosing an outfit for a wedding, and the significance of dressing appropriately as a wedding guest (and some mistakes Sara has made in the past as a wedding guest). Guest: Jia, Simply Jia Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws This may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

We're diving deep into relationships this week! We're discussing the importance of prioritizing peace and your needs as a couple - and as an independent human - during the wedding planning process, managing difficult conversations with your partner as well as your families, and the role of self-love and understanding in a successful marriage. Guest: Chaya, Author of Epic Love Habit Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws This may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Your first dance can be a visual representation of your love story while making a lasting impact. This week, Sara's dishing with a dance instructor who wants to help your first dance wow your guests! Guest: Ernesto, Visionary Productions Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws This may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

We're covering trends for all your wedding events - from engagement, to your wedding ceremony, to reception dresses, and even brunch! Guest: Julie Hurt, Modern Bride Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws This may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Planning a destination wedding in France? From choosing your vendor team to guest experience and everything in between, this episode has everything you need to know! Guest: Anne-Laure Renaud, Et Voila Weddings Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Live entertainment is... entertaining! Even if you're not a big dancer, the performance itself is entertaining. Find a band that you vibe with and your guests will love the music, the dancing, and the performance itself! Guest: Kimmie, Paradigm Party Band Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Balloons add a magical element to your wedding. They can have a childhood wander element that can really entrance your guests and be elegant. Sean creates jaw-dropping balloon installations, sculptures, and installations at weddings and events - and he creates memorable experiences through balloon animals, crowns, jetpacks, or caricatures. The options are truly limitless! Guest: Sean Edwards, The Balloon Guy Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

African honeymoons can be the ultimate safari and a relaxing beachside retreat, but they go well beyond that. Are wineries and waterfalls more your style? South Africa offers incredible food and wine in addition to a safari. We're covering everything from guerrilla treks and sleeping outdoors to luxury retreats. Michelle and Cayley paint a picture of what romantic getaways can look like in Africa. I'm booking my ticket right now! Guests: Michelle and Cayley, Journeys by Emerge Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Investing in dance lessons is a bonding experience with your partner that you will carry with you beyond the wedding night. Dance lessons can absolutely make an impact during your wedding - and, learning a new skill together is magical. Guest: Krista Ramirez, Your Night Choreo Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Dr. Mark Hicks helps us build trust by understanding the five components of love so we can have a happy, healthy relationship in this week's episode. Guest: Dr. Mark Hicks, author of Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

I'm sharing my blind reactions to Vogue's predictions for which wedding trends will be in and out for 2025. See how many I agree and disagree with - and what I get my soapbox about this year! lol Remember to always do what you like. Trends and just trends and your wedding should reflect you as a couple! As I said last year, this article was not as inclusive as it should be. Vogue said "bride and groom" when referring to couples. If that upset you, know that you are not alone. Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

We can’t prevent every potential accident or wardrobe mishap on our wedding days, but we can be prepared for pretty much everything that might come our way with these incredible tools! Guest: Risa Kostis Creative and The Rescue Kit Company Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

You're planning a wedding. You start researching online, follow some influencers on social media and suddenly you're inundated with information. Some of it's conflicting, some of it makes perfect sense. How do you know what - and who - to listen to? If this sounds familiar, this episode is for you! I'm dishing with an incredible DC-based wedding planner about filtering through advice, plus the shift we're seeing toward more "traditional" wedding celebrations for 2025. Guest: Alyssa Glorioso, Glorious Weddings & Events and The Wedding Planning Playbook Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Radhika Graham is back to talk about some of the super cool, totally unique weddings she's planned. From raptors flying into the wedding ceremony to cemeteries and beyond. Guest: Radhika Graham, Rad Occasions Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Wondering how a wedding planner celebrates their big day? Me, too! This week, I'm dishing with planner Cassie LaMere about her New Years Eve wedding! Guest: Cassie LaMere Events Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com to check out our upcoming events, apply to be a guest, and check out show notes. Grab the wedding planning zine here! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the HartyDistrict BlissSprout Creative17hats. Business (and podcasting) just got easier.Chill Paws Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.