Great news - you don't need to be a professional designer or natural-born artist to select a beautiful & cohesive color palette for your wedding celebration. 

Today on the Wedding Planning Podcast, we're running through 5 easy steps for choosing the colors to incorporate into your rehearsal, ceremony & reception.  

I also have a bonus rundown of the top Wedding Color Palette MISTAKES that I see couples make, so be sure to stick around until the end!

A lightening speed recap:

1. Start w/ your venue to guide your color selection,

2. Get color inspiration for your Save the Dates & wedding website - the first design elements your guests will actually see! I've linked 78 Save the Date options with beautiful sample color palettes here.​

3. Tips for using Pinterest to your advantage,

4. Consider your potential colors actually being worn by your wedding party,

5. And of course, KEEP IT SIMPLE!

Enjoy the show!

You deserve wedding insurance that's fast and affordable, and protecting your investment in your wedding celebration literally couldn't be easier than a quick online visit to Brite.co/wedpod. 

Today we're joined by a very special guest, Dustin Lemick.  Dustin is the CEO and founder of BriteCo.  BriteCo is a modern insurance company built for the digital age, and their goal is to simplify the process of securing jewelry and wedding insurance.  

Well, mission complete, because streamline and simplify is exactly what BriteCo has done - with plans starting below $80, no hidden fees and up to 15% in discounts! 

In today's episode, Dustin walks us through everything you need to know about wedding liability & cancellation coverage, and jewelry insurance.  

We'll explore all of your wedding insurance FAQ's, including how much it costs (spoiler alert, it's shockingly affordable), what exactly is covered, how to determine what type of coverage you need, and even how to file a claim.  

From your engagement ring to your wedding day, you can protect your most cherished memories with BriteCo.  Visit brite.co/wedpod for a fast, free quote today and unlock peace of mind knowing that you're covered!

Your engagement photos should feel like you on your very best day - relaxed, connected, glowing, and maybe even a little giddy.

These are the images you'll splash across your save-the-dates, wedding website, holiday cards, and possibly display on your wedding day.

No pressure … right?

But here's the reality:

Choosing outfits that photograph beautifully (and still feel like you), dialing in hair and makeup so it looks polished but not overdone, and somehow posing "naturally" in front of a camera can feel way harder than expected.

Picture this:

• Showing up in last-minute outfits that aren't flattering or comfortable,
• Rushing through hair and makeup an hour before go-time,
• Discovering your fiancé has sudden stage fright and is channeling Friends - specifically "The One with the Engagement Picture" - because they've forgotten how to smile.

We're not doing that.

In today's episode of the WPP, I'm walking you through exactly how to:

• Choose outfits that photograph beautifully and coordinate without looking matchy-matchy
• Decide whether professional hair and makeup is worth it (and how to keep it looking natural)
• Pick a location(s) that is meaningful to you
• Feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera — even if you think you're "awkward in photos"
• Pull off a stylish, low-stress DIY engagement shoot with your iPhone and a friend

With a little preparation and the right mindset, your engagement session can be smooth, fun, and surprisingly effortless — and you'll walk away with photos you truly love.

Early access to new episodes + bonus planning resources are available inside WPP Premium on Apple Podcasts.  Tap "Subscribe" for instant acess.

Links & Resources

• Tune in for all the details, and grab the full written recap (plus links and resources) at:
  www.weddingplanningpodcast.co/engagement-photos
• Start your wedding website with Minted and enjoy free designs by independent artists, all your details in one place, and exclusive listener perks:
  weddingplanningpodcast.co/minted
• Click here for a full written recap of today's episode.

Hiring your wedding vendors is one of the most important (and most overwhelming) parts of wedding planning.

In today's episode, we're breaking down exactly how to research and book your dream vendor team without busting your budget.

You'll learn:

• How to research wedding vendors efficiently

• Which vendors are must-haves vs. optional

• What to book first, and what can wait

• The key questions to ask every wedding vendor before signing a contract

• Universal budgeting rules to help you stay on track throughout your engagement

PS - I would LOVE to hear from you!  Whether it's about a planning challenge or question you're facing, a post-wedding day recap that you'd like to share, or requests for upcoming show topics, you can be in touch any time - simply send an email to:  kara@karasvineyardwedding.com

Enjoy early access to ad-free episodes each week when you subscribe to WEDDING PLANNING PODCAST PREMIUM in Apple Podcasts.

Start your wedding website with Minted and enjoy free designs by independent artists, all of your wedding details in one place, and exclusive listener perks.

Wedding planning can stir up complicated family dynamics, emotional pressure, and strong opinions.

In today's episode, we talk honestly about navigating family expectations during your engagement. From financial contributions and blended families to estranged relationships, religion, tradition, and setting boundaries with well-meaning relatives, this episode offers reassurance and practical tools for protecting your peace.

You'll walk away with clear grounding affirmations, boundary-setting phrases, and permission to plan a wedding that reflects your values - not your family's expectations.

Personal affirmations that you can hold close in the coming months:

• We will never please everyone, and that's OK.
• I can lovingly hold boundaries with my _______  .  (fill in the blank family member) 
• Other peoples' emotions are not my responsibility.
• I am allowed to say no without explanation.
• I trust our wedding vision - we know what's right for our day.

Boundary-setting taglines to keep in your back pocket:

• Thanks — we'll think about it and let you know. 
• We appreciate the suggestion, but we're going in a different direction.
• We already have a firm plan for that, but thanks for the idea!
• Let's circle back on that later. 

And my Golden Rule when managing family input and expectations: 

Over-explaining invites further conversation and negotiation.  Short + sweet shuts it down.

To wrap up this week, I would LOVE to hear from you!  Whether it's about a planning challenge or question you're facing, a post-wedding day recap that you'd like to share, or simply requests for upcoming show topics, you can be in touch any time by sending me an email - kara@karasvineyardwedding.com

PS - Enjoy early access to ad-free episodes each week when you subscribe to WEDDING PLANNING PODCAST PREMIUM in Apple Podcasts.

Start your wedding website with Minted and enjoy free designs by independent artists, all of your wedding details in one place, and exclusive listener perks.

Today we're breaking down one of the most complicated and often emotionally charged - parts of wedding planning: crafting your wedding guest list.  From where to start, to how to handle tricky family dynamics, this episode offers a clear, practical approach to navigating the process with confidence.

Bonus: I'm answering many of your real guest list questions along the way!

Tune in for a step-by-step guide that covers:

• How to get started with your wedding guest list

• Smart strategies (and benefits) of using an A-List / B-List invitation system

• How to handle plus-one expectations and non-invited guests

• Effective ways to thoughtfully trim your guest list

• Navigating family requests - and demands - with clarity and boundaries

• And more!

A detailed blog post to accompany today's episode can be found here.

A special thank you today's show sponsor:

Start your wedding website with Minted and enjoy free designs by independent artists, all of your wedding details in one place, and exclusive listener perks:
weddingplanningpodcast.co/minted

Choosing your wedding venue is the single most important decision you'll make during the planning process - and yes, that can feel like a lot of pressure.

Your venue isn't just the backdrop for your wedding day.  It also sets the vibe, drives your budget, impacts your guest experience, and influences nearly every other decision you'll make from here on out.  That's why this is not a decision to rush.

In today's episode of The Wedding Planning Podcast, we're breaking down exactly how to choose the right wedding venue with clarity and confidence - before you sign a contract or close doors you didn't even realize were there.

You'll learn:

• Why your wedding venue impacts every other planning decision

• How to define your wedding vision before you start touring spaces

• Smart ways to set yourself up for a successful venue search

• The most important questions to ask every potential venue

• The key differences between traditional and all-inclusive venues

• How to research and find the best wedding venues near you

We'll also talk through budget considerations, guest experience, logistics, décor implications, and how to trust your instincts when you walk into the one.

Blog post with pdf Venue Shopping Checklists

If you're newly engaged - or feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start - this episode will help you slow down, get clear, and make a venue decision that truly aligns with your vision, priorities, and budget.

A special thank you to this week's show sponsors:

• Start your wedding website with Minted and enjoy free designs by independent artists, all of your wedding details in one place, and exclusive listener perks:
weddingplanningpodcast.co/minted

Setting a realistic wedding budget that actually works for you is one of the most important decisions you'll make after getting engaged, and it's one that sets the tone for every planning choice that follows.

If you're newly engaged and feeling overwhelmed by numbers, opinions, or online "averages" that don't feel realistic … or if you're already planning and realizing your budget needs a reset - you're in exactly the right place.

In today's episode, I'm walking you through a clear, step-by-step process for creating a wedding budget that reflects your priorities ... not the wedding industry's expectations.

We'll talk about how to define what matters most, allocate your money with intention, and build a financial plan that supports your vision - without all of the overwhelm and second-guessing.

Will wedding planning be completely free of financial stress?  Probably not.  But with the right framework in place, it can feel organized, intentional, and manageable - so that you're not always making decisions from a place of panic or pressure.

By the end of this episode, you'll have the clarity and confidence to move forward with a budget that truly works for you.

• Want to save time, money, and your sanity while planning your wedding?

Subscribe to Wedding Planning Podcast Premium on Apple Podcasts for early, ad-free access to all weekly episodes—plus a bonus series that teaches you how to use ChatGPT as your free wedding planning assistant.

Save hours, avoid overwhelm, and make confident decisions faster.

Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts and start planning with clarity.

• Thank you to today's show sponsor, Minted:

Just engaged and wondering where to start?  One of the easiest first steps is your wedding website.

With Minted, you can build a free wedding website designed by independent artists - so it looks elevated without the custom-design price tag.

Everything lives in one place: your story, wedding details, RSVPs, and registry links - simple, clean, and stress-free. 

Click here to get started today and unlock exclusive listener perks on save-the-dates, invitations, and more.

• Click Here to read the complete blog post and follow along with today's episode.

Just engaged and not sure where to start?
This episode breaks down the exact first steps every newly engaged couple should take - plus the mistakes to avoid - so you can plan with clarity, confidence, and zero panic.

In today's episode, I'm walking you through the Ultimate Engagement Checklist: 10 must-do steps to take before you book venues, sign contracts, or lock yourself into decisions you'll regret later.

The days after getting engaged are exciting and overwhelming. Between sharing the news, flashing that ring, and daydreaming about dresses and cake, most couples accidentally slip into planning autopilot.

After working with thousands of engaged couples over 10 years, I've seen the same mistakes over & over: rushing into big decisions too soon - and limiting what's actually possible for their wedding.

This episode helps you slow down strategically, get grounded, and set yourself up for a wedding that truly reflects the two of you.

Inside this episode:

• The first things you should do after getting engaged (and what can wait)

• How to avoid common early planning mistakes that cost couples time, money, and options

• The mindset shift that leads to better decisions later

• A simple checklist to move forward with confidence - minus the overwhelm

Think of this as a free audio planning meeting to help you start smart and stress less.

Early access to new episodes + bonus planning resources are available inside WPP Premium on Apple Podcasts.  Tap "Subscribe" for instant acess.

Links & Resources

• Engagement ring insurance: Is it right for you?

• Start your wedding website with Minted and enjoy free designs by independent artists, all your details in one place, and exclusive listener perks:
  weddingplanningpodcast.co/minted
• Click here for a full written recap of today's episode.

Wedding planning shouldn't feel overwhelming - but for most of us, it does.

In this episode, we're building a clear, confident action plan to help you navigate the 6 biggest stress points couples face early in their engagement, without the spiraling, second-guessing, or family drama.

We're covering:
• "Where do we even start??" → Mini-Workshop: Defining Your Wedding Vision + Priorities
• Budget overwhelm
• Finding the right venue
• Guest list tension
• Family dynamics & expectations
• Booking vendors with confidence

Today's show is a high-level roadmap to help you feel grounded and in control.  Over the coming weeks, we'll take a deep dive into each of these topics so you can move forward with clarity - one decision at a time.

Want more support?
Get early, ad-free access to all 6 feature episodes when you subscribe to Wedding Planning Podcast Premium on Apple Podcasts.

Premium subscribers also unlock an exclusive bonus series that shows you exactly how to use ChatGPT as a free wedding planning assistant - saving hours of research, making confident decisions faster, and keeping your budget on track.

Just tap Subscribe on Apple Podcasts to get instant access.

Enjoy the show!

Additional Links & Resources:

• Start your wedding website with Minted and enjoy free designs by independent artists, all of your wedding details in one place, and exclusive listener perks:
  weddingplanningpodcast.co/minted
• Questions, feedback, or future episode ideas?
  Reach out anytime at weddingplanningpodcast.co/contact
• Click here for a full written recap of today's episode

The little dollar bill emoji with flapping wings is a great one-tap summary of planning a wedding.  Budgeting for expected expenses is hard enough, let alone all of the little unexpected stuff that sneaks in along the way!

Today we're going to shine a light on 16 annoying + unexpected expenses that couples don't plan for, so that you can adjust your budget early on and not be taken by surprise in the coming months.  

Full blog post for today's show can be found here.

Thank you for sharing the show with someone who is helping you plan!

Wedding questions, stories to share, or requests for a future episode?  I always have an open door and would love to hear from you >>> weddingplanningpodcast.com

Cheers to you!
Kara

These listener scenarios that may seem a bit crazy on the surface … but in reality offer a great chance to maximize the quality AND the value of your wedding celebration!

As you're putting together plans for your wedding, there are endless creative opportunities for you to deploy a unique, offbeat solution to what may seem like a standard wedding checklist item.

So many couples subconsciously equate a higher price tag with a higher-quality end product or service, and that's simply not always true.  Worse, that mentality can add up to spending tens of thousands of dollars more than necessary to host a memorable and meaningful wedding celebration. 

The $10,000 dollar question is how can we develop an instinct for when it makes sense to invest more money for a higher quality experience, and when taking a less expensive route will be just fine?

That's what we're going to highlight today with a few listener scenarios that may seem a little crazy on the surface … but in reality offer a great chance to maximize the quality AND the value of the end-result.  

Tune in for inspiration from other Wedding Planning Podcast listeners who had a kinda-crazy sounding idea ... and hear what worked, and what didn't!

Enjoy early access to ad-free episodes each week when you subscribe to WEDDING PLANNING PODCAST PREMIUM in Apple Podcasts.  

You've done months (maybe even YEARS) of wedding planning & preparation, and the big day is finally almost here!

Last stop?  Rehearsal dinner.

This week we're reviewing everything you need to know for planning & hosting this extra special night with your family & friends.

We cover everything from the ceremony rehearsal itself to practical tips for hosting your loved ones afterwards.

DETAILED BLOG POST HERE

Naturally, I have a ton of creative alternatives to taking 50 of your closest friends & family out to eat at a nice restaurant ($$$).  Beyond just saving money, we'll also cover:

• When to start planning (hint - it might be earlier than you think!)
• Personality-packed options for location and food selection
• Tips for keeping the night on pace and organized
• And meaningful touches that will be remembered beyond the wedding day.

This topic is so dear to me - I remember our rehearsal dinner as one of the most special nights of my life.  We grilled chicken, steak & veggies with our friends & family on the property where we got married, had all the fave drinks flowing, and a curated list of our favorite songs turned way up.  We laughed, talked & celebrated long past sunset, and it was an absolutely magical night. 

I wish all the same for you!

xo, Kara

Happy Friday, and welcome to another BONUS Q&A follow up show to this week's feature episode, "How To: DIY Appetizers & Charcuterie Board" show that aired on Wednesday Dec 24th.

Today is a mix of behind-the-scenes insight from me, your reception-related questions, and also a couple of hindsight wedding experiences to share from listeners who were recently married.  

There's a ton of value packed into this 20 minute bonus show, and I hope you love it -

Enjoy the show!

The cost of food & drinks can be a huge source of frustration when planning your wedding.  I can't tell you how many messages I get from couples who are utterly horrified by the per person fee for dinner & drinks - and rightfully so! 

Today we're going to explore setting up your own appetizer spread, and I think you'll be blown away by the savings ... yes, up to 85% off the cost of a traditional wedding caterer.

Tune in for my detailed roadmap to appetizer / happy hour menu planning, shopping, and setting it all up.

We'll review how much to buy, where to shop, and what you can expect the total price tag to be for TWO different sample menu options.

We even cover the details that are often overlooked, so that your plan is airtight and nothing is missed.

Even if you are using a more traditional caterer for the main meal, doing your own appetizer spread is a wonderful way to customize the offering, UP the quality, AND save a ton of money.  What's not to love?

Not allowed to bring outside food into your venue?  This process for setting up a beautiful appetizer spread is also perfect for your bridal shower, welcome party, rehearsal dinner, or any other party you host in the future. 

Be sure to bookmark it, and share this episode with a friend who's helping you plan!

Enjoy the full blog post:  www.weddingplanningpodcast.co/cheese

Discover endless cocktail hour inspiration!  https://www.pinterest.com/karasvinwedding/wedding-cocktail-hour/

Enjoy early access to ad-free episodes each week when you subscribe to WEDDING PLANNING PODCAST PREMIUM in Apple Podcasts. 

Is it OK to ... ?

I got lots of mail in response to the Wedding Etiquette show that aired on 12.17.25, and in this Friday Follow Up Q&A I'm opening my mailbox and sharing your questions!

We'll talk through ...

• Inviting kids to the wedding,
• Requesting a specific dress code, 
• A tiny wedding chappel that can't accomodate everyone,
• The etiquette surrounding your wedding parties,
• When to actually send Thank You notes, and lots more.

Enjoy,

And be in touch with your questions anytime at weddingplanningpodcast.co/contact

Are you drowning in wedding "etiquette guidelines"?

Everyone has an opinion on invitation wording, cash bars, inviting kids, wedding day transportation, and what traditions absolutely SHOULD be included in the wedding day.  There's nothing like planning a wedding to suddenly have everyone you've ever known come out of the woodwork with their opinions, right?

Where wedding planning gets overwhelming is when ideas of what a wedding "should" look like are in conflict with our budget, our wants, and our personalities. 

And of course, an added layer of stress arises when you and your partner come from different backgrounds, and one of you thinks paying $10,000 for a photographer is completely reasonable, and the other wants to spend $10,000 total on the entire wedding.

But no matter where you're from, I'm a firm believer in your wedding day being an expression and celebration of you & your partner.  At the end of the day, you're making a really special commitment to one another, and looking to celebrate the occasion with your loved ones.  That's it!

Spoiler alert, I don't necessarily have a right / wrong, ok / not ok answer for every single piece of wedding etiquette, because look, there is just so much gray area here.  I could sit here all day and say, it's never ok to do that, it's always better to do that, but that's not actuality, that's not the world we live in.  

I thought it would be helpful to take a list of common etiquette and rules that are flying around out there, and have a critical conversation about each one so that you can decide what's right for YOU.  Which leads me perfectly into,

Please trust that you ALWAYS have the support from me to ditch what everyone else is doing, and craft your day, your way. 

No this doesn't mean being blatantly rude or disagreeable to your family, or sneaking behind your partner to sabotage something that you know they really want, or failing to honor your guests who are committing significant time & resources to participate in your wedding and support you.  Obviously use common sense, compromise and understanding throughout your engagement.  

But these commonly held wedding etiquette rules & beliefs can by all means be adjusted and updated to serve you and your unique priorities.   

LINKS & RESOURCES mentioned in today's show:

Setting up a Facebook Group for your wedding guests

Some Couples Are Charging Their Wedding Guests to Attend

Your wedding gift registry is the perfect opportunity to upgrade your home & your lifestyle with practical gifts that you need and will use in the years to come. 

Tune in for an essential guide to creating a killer wedding gift registry including:

• Deciding what items to include and ...

• Items NOT to include on your registry,

• Various lifestyle "categories" to consider as you build your registry,

• Tips for creating cash gift funds,

• Your top wedding registry "wish list" items,

• And so much more!

For a complete written recap of today's show, visit weddingplanningpodcast.co/registry

Looking for easy & affordable alternatives to hiring a professional florist ($$$$$) to decorate your wedding reception, table centerpieces, and bouquets?  

You're in the right place!  In today's show, we're going to discuss a creative variety of affordable wedding table decoration ideas. 

We're also going to review some actionable tips for doing your own wedding day flower bouquets & boutonnieres.

It'll take a little extra work on your part, and you may need to simplify things a bit ... but if you're looking for a spot to save a ton of money, creating table centerpieces & bouquets on your own is a great place to start!

Enjoy my top tips for incorporating flowers into your table decor, and we also cover beautiful centerpiece ideas that incorporate creative materials OTHER than flowers. 

We wrap up with some specific examples of complete table set up's that you can do for less than $10 per table.

Wedding Flowers & Alternatives Pinterest Board is here

Wedding Planning Podcast DIY Pinterest Board is here

Full blog post for today's show:

www.weddingplanningpodcast.co/centerpiece

Enjoy early access to ad-free episodes each week when you subscribe to WEDDING PLANNING PODCAST PREMIUM in Apple Podcasts.  

Meet special guest Emma, who's here to share the highlights, unique elements, and planning challenges from their beautiful wedding celebration at Hilton Lake Las Vegas.

In this special episode, you'll hear lots more from Emma on:

• The pros of having NO wedding party
• Celebrating over a 3-day weekend in their hometown
• The endless benefits of a very chill wedding day / intentionally left lots of open time & space to relax
• Their "First Look" - and favorite part of the day!
• "Last Dance" w/ just the two of us after the room has been cleared
• Mini after-party at hotel lobby bar,
• Keeping it early & chill - wrapped everything up by 9:30 pm
• The challenges of setting a wedding budget and knowing where the starting point is
• Trying on 50+ dresses before finding "The One"
• And so much more!

For a complete written recap and to see their absolutely gorgeous wedding photos, here's a complete article that features Emma and Drew's incredible wedding celebration.

And to wrap up this week, I would LOVE to hear from you!  Whether it's about a planning challenge or question you're facing, a post-wedding day recap that you'd like to share, or simply requests for upcoming show topics, you can send in a voicemail to the show by visiting weddingplanningpodcast.co/contact

In your message, please be sure to leave your name and email address so we can reach you for follow up.  I would love to share more stories like Emma's, but I need your participation, so please make it a priority to be in touch!

Access a curated collection of second-hand designer gowns & expert stylists at a fraction of the designer price tag -

Loved Twice Bridal was created to take the guesswork out of shopping online for a second hand, designer wedding dress. You'll have access to an experienced team of stylists who are available to answer all of your questions, so that you can buy a once-worn designer dress with confidence.

Unlike peer-to-peer marketplaces, Loved Twice Bridal gives you access to a curated collection of designer gowns that have all been thoroughly evaluated and pre-screened for quality, with clear and reliable disclosures on measurements and alterations.  This is a really unique opportunity to wear a designer gown at a fraction of the price tag, and today I've invited founder Sarah Gabbour to share the Loved Twice Bridal experience with you!

In this week's episode of the Wedding Planning Podcast, you'll gain:

• Online wedding dress shopping tips, including details on how the "Try At Home" feature works,
• Advice for wedding dress sizing (it's very different than what you're used to!)
• Tips for consignment selling your second-hand designer wedding dress after your wedding,
• Wedding dress budgeting advice,
• Important information about altering a second-hand wedding dress,
• Biggest mistakes and missed opportunities when shopping for your wedding dress,
• And so much more!

To shop Loved Twice Bridal gowns and learn more about consignment options, visit www.lovedtwicebridal.com/weddingplanningpodcast

And as a reminder for my Los Angeles / Southern California brides, Loved Twice Bridal does have a showroom in Beverly Hills. You can book an appointment for dress shopping OR for designer dress consignment by visiting their "Book an Appointment" page at the website linked above.

A top-notch Wedding Planner / Day-Of-Coordinator is essential for any smooth and seamless wedding celebration. 

Today on the Wedding Planning Podcast, we're reviewing 10 KEY POINTS to discuss with your planner so that you're both on the same page and ready to tackle any planning, logistic, or execution challenges that may arise.

A sampling of these key discussion points:

• Who are your assistants or other team members, what is their role in the planning phase, and also at the actual wedding celebration?  Having a crystal clear set of expectations for who will be answering your questions and exactly who will be your point-person is critical!
• Can you share firsthand reviews & testimonials from past couples you've worked with?
• Does your past experience / areas of expertise fit naturally within our overall wedding vision, venue, and our top priorities?
• What can we expect in terms of ongoing communication, both frequency and style? 
• Tune in for so much more, and visit the blog post for today's show for a full written recap.

PS - A special THANK YOU to this week's show sponsors, who made this free weekly episode possible:

• FREE Wedding Websites designed by independent artists?  Yes please!  Get started building your wedding website today with www.weddingplanningpodcast.co/minted and take advantage of exclusive listener perks on save the dates, invitations & more.
• Shop Etsy for one-of-a-kind wedding day details, personalized just for you >>> www.weddingplanningpodcast.co/etsy

We all know that having a detailed WEDDING DAY TIMELINE is critical to keeping the day organized, and flowing stress-free. 

The problem is that lots of us get incredibly overwhelmed by the process because, well, it's really damn overwhelming! 

Today I'm going to highlight some of the top mistakes I see couples make as they're building out their wedding day timeline, so that you can sidestep these major pitfalls and rest easy knowing that you've covered all the bases. 

Questions or topic requests for upcoming shows?  Be in touch anytime >>> weddingplanningpodcast.co/contact

Today we're going to chat about a handful of ways when trying to "save" money on your wedding can totally BACKFIRE. 

Aside of college educations, new homes and new cars, your wedding likely has one of the biggest price tags you've ever paid. You're spending tens of thousands of dollars - of course you're trying to save money when possible!

You're not out there researching the most expensive venue in your area, or trying to find ways to spend more money on your invitations.

When a potential photographer or caterer gives you a quote for services, you probably don't say "well that sounds OK, but do you have anything that costs more?"

If you've been listening to the Wedding Planning Podcast for a while, I hope you know me well enough now to know that I'm NOT the wedding professional who's going to tell you NEVER to try to cut this corner, or don't DARE hire a friend to do x, y, z.

I see this type of messaging a lot. If you do your own wedding day hair and makeup it will totally fail, and you should hire a professional to do it for you. If you skimp on a photographer, you will regret it for the rest of your life.

The trouble is, professional service providers in pretty much any industry have an agenda - to sell their product or service.

And whether you hear from a wedding professional on a podcast, read their articles on a blog, or see their posts on Instagram, their position is probably that hiring a professional is THE BEST way to go. "After all", they say, "this is your wedding - you can't afford to cut corners on the best day of your life."

Well, for lots of this, I call BS. Sure, if you have a wedding budget in the 6-figures, then "hire a professional" is a great option for everything I just listed.

But most of us DON'T have $100,000 to spend on our wedding, so making swaps and saves here and there is a necessary part of planning so that we don't go thousands of dollars into debt - NEVER a good idea.

In today's show, let's explore some common areas of wedding planning where couples to try to cut a corner, save some money, leave something out, and then sadly have it backfire in terms of lost money, lost time, lost sanity - and sometimes all three.

If you find yourselves at a cost-saving opportunity crossroads and you don't know which way to turn, I have some smart questions to ask yourselves, and potential vendors, that I hope will guide you towards making the best decisions for you and your wedding day.

So when you find yourself wondering, hmmmmm ... should we cut that corner? What are the potential outcomes or pitfalls that might come of it? Hopefully after today's show, you'll have some solid answers to some of the most common situations, so that you can make the best decision for you.

For one wedding, that might mean hiring a photographer off craigslist for $500. For another couple, that will NEVER be an option that's on the table. And you know what? Both sides are totally fine ;)

Today's convo is a wedding planning strategy GEM!  We're going to cover every single last little thing that should be included within your wedding venue contract. 

If you've already booked a venue and signed a contract, I'd suggest pulling out your actual document & sticking around for today's convo to be sure that all the key items are addressed.

Your wedding venue is literally the centerpiece of your dream wedding celebration.  It's also likely the most expensive decision you'll make throughout the course of your engagement, so we need to be extra cautious in getting the details cemented just right.  

Enjoy early access to ad-free episodes each week when you subscribe to WEDDING PLANNING PODCAST PREMIUM in Apple Podcasts.  

Lucky for us, there are literally endless creative ways to treat your guests to a unique food & drink experience on your wedding day. 

In today's wedding planning workshop, we're going to explore exactly how to:

• Conceptualize & research what to serve,
• Smart money-saving tips that many couples miss,
• And even some "do it yourself" options if you're looking to get hands on - literally!

Just a few of my favorite offbeat, wedding day food options:

• Made-to-order brick oven pizzas, 
• A taco truck with variety of meats, toppings and fixings,  
• Pre-made bento boxes, 
• Gourmet picnic bags, 
• A really unique local food truck, 
• Fondue style where guests simmer meats in oil and dip bread and veggies in melted cheeses.  
• Extensive charcuterie board table with meats, gourmet cheeses, olives, local honey, olive oil tastings, and for dinner your favorite pasta and salad served family-style.

Bon apetit!

Kara

Samantha & Sean got married at a state park in New York, but this was no ordinary celebration ... Their stunning wedding weekend featured no cell service, just 6 electrical outlets, and a hot air balloon send off for the new bride and groom!

Samantha is joining us this week to share the good, the challenges, the things she would do differently, and the things she wouldn't change for the world.

To view her beautiful wedding photos and a full recap of today's show, visit weddingplanningpodcast.co/samantha.

And if you've ever dreamed about quitting your day job to pursue something you're truly passionate about, Samantha can relate 100%!  Be sure to check out her wedding floral business venture, @golden.hour.flowers on Instagram

Today on the Wedding Planning Podcast, we're doing a thorough review of wedding dress alterations, styling & accessories, & post-wedding preservation ideas, and so much more.

Our conversation covers the dress alterations process in detail, including pricing, money-saving tips, a timeline for when to get started, and alternative options for having your dress altered.

We also cover:

• What's a bustle, do I need one, and how much does it cost? (article on bustling I mentioned in today's show can be found here)
• Styling and shape wear options like bras, corsets, and compression garments,
• The importance of COMFORTABLE SHOES,
• Getting your dress home & last minute wrinkle patrol (the handheld steamer I mentioned can be found here)
• And some creative ways to preserve and / or repurpose your gown after the wedding.

I hope you love it, and congratulations on that beautiful dress!

Cheers,
Kara

There are countless unique ways to celebrate your wedding / bridal shower (that don't involve sitting around and playing awkward games with your female friends & relatives!). 

In this week's episode of the Wedding Planning Podcast, we're giving the "traditional" wedding shower some much-needed updates.  Listen in for creative + modern twists that you're sure to fall in love with.

In many cases you don't plan your own shower, so please feel free to forward this episode along to anyone who's helping you with your wedding plans!

For a complete written version of today's show, including lots of listener Q&A's, visit the blog post linked here.

PS - A special THANK YOU to this week's show sponsors, who made this free weekly episode possible:

• Enjoy early access to ad-free episodes each week when you subscribe to WEDDING PLANNING PODCAST PREMIUM in Apple Podcasts.  
• FREE Wedding Websites designed by independent artists?  Yes please!  Get started building your wedding website today with www.weddingplanningpodcast.co/minted and take advantage of exclusive listener perks on save the dates, invitations & more.
• Shop Etsy for one-of-a-kind wedding day details, personalized just for you >>> www.weddingplanningpodcast.co/etsy

This week's featured wedding planning meeting is an overview of how to formulate a detailed wedding vision - and equally as important, learning how to articulate and advocate for that vision with those who are helping you plan.  

Here's an overview of the specific scenario we'll be discussing:

"How can we reign in our wedding planner?  Our venue includes a coordinator for the rehearsal and wedding day, and initially I was pleasantly surprised by how accommodating and informative she is.  Since the initial relief and excitement of finding and booking the perfect venue, we're starting to realize the huge task ahead of us in terms of booking EVERYTHING (the venue comes with nothing set up, so we need to choose tables, chairs, place settings, dance floor, bar, basically everything.) 

At this point, I feel completely overwhelmed by her ideas & suggestions, and I'm starting to worry that the wedding she has envisioned for us does not line up with our vision OR our budget.  How do I reign in our wedding planner and rest easy knowing that we are on the same page?"

In my years of experience, it's not just the wedding planners who need to reigned in ... often times it's also the moms, bridesmaids, aunts, cousins ... feeling familiar?

We're going to cover all these scenarios in today's episode.

You'll also enjoy a clip of exclusive audio, "Creating Your Wedding Vision". This exercise alone is one of the most valuable wedding planning tools I have to helping you create a celebration that truly honors your priorities & values.

Tune in for so much more!

Our goal this week?  To save YOU $3,650 on your final wedding bill.

We could literally talk for hours about all the pretty things you see on Pinterest & Instagram that do not HAVE to be a part of your wedding celebration.

In the interest of time, I've chosen EIGHT wedding elements that I would suggest skipping - or scaling waaaaaaaaay back on.  I think you'll be shocked at how easy it is for us to save over $3,000 over the course of a 20 minute conversation!

If your goal is a simple, beautiful, and affordable wedding - then the sky is the limit on the millions of wedding details you can leave out.  

Partner links mentioned in today's show:

Wedding shoes on Amazon? Why not! Check out these beauties & more for a fraction of the price at a "wedding" retailer.

Support a small business AND shop high quality, low priced wedding accessories on Etsy.

Last word! A CLASSIC way to save? Purchase once-used decor & other wedding items from another couple on a resale site like Craigslist, Ebay, or Facebook Marketplace. 🙌🏼

"When the initial excitement settled, we felt like planning an entire wedding seemed really expensive, overwhelming, and exhausting."

Let me back up ...

My now-husband John proposed in the summer of 2009, at the end of a 3-week trip we took through Europe.

We were in Paris - our last stop - and we waited for hours to get to the lower platform of the Eiffel Tower, where he dropped to his knee with the sparking lights of the tower above us, and lit up city buildings & river boats in the distance.

We never even had dinner that night because it got so late, but you know how it is with the crazy excitement you felt on your engagement day - dinner didn't even matter. We had just lived an incredibly powerful moment that was about to change our lives forever.

Within weeks, my ring was resized and fit perfectly. We had shared the news with literally everyone we knew, and we started discussions about potential venues and dates, and of course, the elephant in the room - how we would pay for everything.

Tune in for so much more! 

A universal truth?  Your wedding day will FLY BY. 

Having a well-thought out, well-planned WEDDING DAY TIMELINE is critical to keeping the day organized, and flowing stress free. 

In this featured episode of the Wedding Planning Podcast, we're actually reviewing & creating two separate timelines:

• The DAY-OF TIMELINE, including all the events between waking up, and the wedding reception beginning,  
• The RECEPTION TIMELINE, including the events that will happen within the reception itself.

We're going to focus on the DAY-OF timeline first, and you'll find specifics on creating your reception timeline in the second half of this meeting.  

Here's a link to the Pinterest Wedding Timeline examples that I mentioned in the show.

Mastering the art of compromise is incredibly tricky.

Today we're exploring the importance of being on the same page with respect to finances, how you spend your free time, and of course, the ability to COMPROMISE - whether it's about your honeymoon or your wedding guest list.  Tune in for so much more!

I'm looking for new stories from you about your engagement, wedding planning milestones, questions, anxieties, and anything else you'd like to share. 

I'd love to feature your voice on the podcast, so please get in touch with your stories and questions by heading to weddingplanningpodcast.co/contact. 

I can't wait to hear from you!

Your bachelorette party is a really fun engagement milestone AND it'll be a breeze to plan with these easy planning guidelines + sample itineraries! 

Today's show also includes lots of your questions on party etiquette, gift giving, who plans what, and even a "tale of two parties" ... two very different bachelorette formats, each with their own pro's, and each guaranteed to result in an unforgettable night(s).

• Who plans the bachelorette party?
• Who should get invited?
• When should we start planning & schedule it?
• Honoring & accomodating everyone's financial circumstances,
• TWO sample bachelorette party itineraries,
• What are some creative bachelorette gift ideas?

Early access to new episodes + bonus planning resources are available inside WPP Premium on Apple Podcasts.  Tap "Subscribe" for instant access.

If you're looking for some CREATIVE + AFFORDABLE wedding reception entertainment options that go way beyond dinner, drinks & dancing, then this wedding planning workshop is perfect for you!

Today's wedding receptions feature creative entertainment ideas that are increasingly more personalized, more interactive, and more representative of your values, personal style and tastes.  

There are endless ways to reimagine classic wedding reception entertainment & activities, and create a memorable, shared WEDDING EXPERIENCE based on your values & priorities.

In this meeting, we're covering an overview of creative wedding entertainment ideas, and highlighting some fun twists on tradition that you can plan to treat your guests to an unforgettable experience.  

GATHERING INSPIRATION FROM PINTEREST

I know podcasts don't always lend well to visual examples, and I don't like simply rattling off long lists during the show ... so here's a list of search terms that you can simply copy / paste into Pinterest for instant wedding entertainment ideas & inspiration:

• creative wedding guest book ideas
• wedding seating chart ideas
• wedding place card table ideas
• DIY selfie station 
• DIY wedding photo backdrop,
• Bouquet toss ideas
• Garder toss ideas
• Money dance ideas
• Creative wedding toast
• Dessert bar ideas,
• Unique first dance ideas

For easy tips on getting a private Facebook group up and running, you can visit this link.

A LOT of our energy during the wedding planning process is centered around the fear that things will go wrong, and how we can avoid and prevent minor mistakes - and major disasters - on our wedding day.  

I've been deeply involved with weddings for over a decade, and candidly, it's a universal truth - no matter how much you plan and prep and delegate and assign, something will go wrong and / or not according to plan at some point during your wedding celebration.  

The good news is that big or small, I have some solid practices that you can use right now to be able to adapt, improvise, and mentally overcome any unforeseen issues & challenges that are bound to arise.

Tune in for so much more!

Your wedding planning questions, answered!

Tune in for answers to all of your tricky wedding situations, including:

• We're having a hard time choosing a date that works best for all of our closest loved ones - how should we decide?
• What's the etiquette when inviting just a couple of people from a larger social group?
• Are we obligated to provide vendors a meal / include them in the final head count for catering? 
• Food truck wedding logistics - we love this idea but feel unclear about the best way to approach the set up to make sure our guests have a smooth experience.
• Want small & intimate, but every event gets blown up and magnified out of control.  I feel shy, anxious, and uncomfortable in large crowds of people and would so much prefer a quieter, small group setting.  How can I manage these feelings through the next few months, and especially through our wedding itself?

To submit your wedding questions, please visit our website >>> www.weddingplanningpodcast.co/contact

Would you volunteer to host a party for 40 people and then rush out to the store with no menu planned & no shopping list?

No way! 

You'd sit down and plan out what everyone was going to bring, make a menu of app's & drinks, look up some recipes, and then make a detailed list of exactly what you need to buy.

So why on earth would you head out to a WEDDING FAIR / BRIDAL EXPO with absolutely no plan, and just "see what happens"?

Today on the Wedding Planning Podcast we're going to take inventory of your priorities, and make a list of your top goals for your day spent at the wedding fair. 

This way you can MAXIMIZE your time spent with vendors and gathering inspiration, and minimize the stress & overwhelm factor of wandering through hundreds of booths full of noisy commotion. 

After our time together today, when the 15th DJ asks you if you want to dance, and the 22nd wedding planner asks you to spin their "wheel o' fun" ...

... you can confidently smile, say no thanks, and keep walking. 

To submit questions for an upcoming show, simply visit our website and leave me a voicemail! 

"The more thought & intention you put into your wedding plans throughout your engagement, the richer your wedding celebration will be."

Do we really need to hire a WEDDING PLANNER / Day of Coodinator? 

In Part One of today's featured show, we review a list of critical guidelines to keep in mind as you decide whether or not to hire a professional wedding planner. 

Do you HAVE to hire a professional planner?  Spoiler alert - I definitely DO NOT think you have to spend thousands of dollars to hire a professional wedding planner.

In Part Two of the show, we sort out some common misconceptions and FAQ's about wedding planners and day of coordinators. 

When I got married, I wasted a lot of time researching and interviewing planners before I realized that A.) I didn't HAVE to hire anyone, and B.) John and I had all the tools we needed to plan OUR perfect wedding day.

And side note, shocker - obviously, none of the wedding planners I interviewed ever mentioned to me, hey by the way, did you know that you could actually just do this on your own?  

Thankfully I came around to that, but it took lots of wasted effort and stress to get there.

Flash forward to today - I literally created the Wedding Planning Podcast so that any engaged couple could tune in and use the episodes and the tools we review in the weekly shows to plan their own wedding - no professional or pricey wedding planner required. 

Some alternatives?  Try checking out the sites we mentioned in today's show, including your local Craigslist postings, Thumbtack.com,  taskrabbit.com and fiverr.com

I also know that there are countless wonderful wedding planning professionals out there, and for some couples it's a really smart investment … and we'll get into all of that that much more in today's show.

Click here for the full blog post from today's show.

Click here to submit your wedding questions or future show topic requests.

Thank you for your support of the Wedding Planning Podcast, and we'll talk soon!

Cheers,
Kara

Streamline + simplify has been a tagline for the WPP literally since I created the show way back in 2015.  (Look closely, it's even on our old logo!)

Not only are these two of my favorite words in the English language - that I try and live by in ALL aspects of my life - more specifically, they perfectly summarize my approach to wedding planning.  

Every situation you'll encounter throughout your engagement can be examined through the lens of simplicity and potentially scaled back or streamlined in some way that will make your life easier, more affordable, more relaxing, and overall, more enjoyable.  

Often we find ourselves in the midst of a planning roadblock and the first instinct is to explore your options. 

In the first example we're going to talk about today - a couple who has family in 2 different places, many of whom don't want to travel, you might consider … getting married in each place, what would that look like?  Getting married where we live?  Getting married on an island with just us? 

In all the feelings and family dynamics and charged emotions that fly around throughout your engagement season, it's sometimes easy to get lost in a million far-fetched options ... when the simplest, most streamlined option is left by the wayside.  

On that note, let's explore some other common wedding planning scenarios where things can escalate and become verrrrrrrrrry complicated, very quickly. 

I'm going to do my best to point out some straightforward, simple solutions that I hope will make your engaged life EASIER, MORE AFFORDABLE, and put a stop to waking up in the middle of the night with your mind racing over how many passed appetizers there should be, how many people should be in your wedding party, and how much ice to buy for your welcome party. 

Ready to get started?  Tune into the full show for so much more!

I went to a beautiful wedding in Carlsbad, CA last weekend - tune in for the highlights, including a really unique venue, rocking dance floor, and the most beautiful gift to all the guests.

But first, we're starting this week's show with some newlywed notes from my brother and sister-in-law, Mike & Laura.  They share what worked, what stressed them out, and their true feelings on the wedding being "over".  

For lots more details on their Rochester, MI wedding, look for a show dated May 12, 2025.

I also have an inbox full of your wedding questions to share:

• Dealing with grief during the wedding planning process,
• Communicating open bar vs cash bar,
• Bouquet toss - outdated?
• How can we end the night without a "grand exit"?
• Dealing with very opinionated family about our guest list

These shows only work with your participation!  I know, I know - you can ask chat gpt or get lost on Reddit, but this is so much more fun. 

Be in touch anytime >>> weddingplanningpodcast.co/contact

Talk soon,

Kara

PS - A link to the Carlsbad Lagoon venue

Get ready for a jam-packed Wedding Q&A show, full of your planning questions & concerns!  Here's a sampling of what's on the menu this week:

• How much alcohol to buy? >>> click here for one of my favorite hosting tools ever (and tune in to my full answer for lots more helpful tips on the topic!)

• What can we expect for the price of flowers?

• Who pays for the bridal shower, & should I offer to help? >>> click here for blog post "Practical Bridal Shower Gift Ideas"

• Fiance doesn't want any wedding party at all, but I do.  How to proceed?

• Rehearsal dinner options are way too expensive.  Advice on making it more affordable?

• Should we hire a babysitter for our reception?

• What's a good way to ask for cash instead of gifts?  Spoiler alert, I don't think there's a "good" way, but creating cash funds that you can share on your gift registry is an option with Honeyfund.  There are no fees, and you can even link directly to your Venmo or PayPal accounts.  

• Do we have to seat wedding party members with their dates?

Wedding questions on your mind, or topics you'd like to hear more about? 

Submit your wedding questions here

Thanks for being here, and we'll meet again next week!

Cheers,
Kara

Happy Friday, and welcome to a BONUS Q&A follow up show to this week's feature episode, "4-6 Week Wedding Countdown" show that aired on Wednesday, July 16th.

Today we're finding answers to everything on your mind, including:

• Dis-inviting moms to final venue walk through?
• Last-minute doubts about decor and signage, do we need more?
• Do we have to tell our guests that we're already technically married?
• How to design a clean & crisp tablescape {link to Wedding Q&A Pinterest board here!}
• Is it too late to hire a month-of coordinator?
• Dealing with unwanted, uninvited "plus 1's" in our RSVPs

Questions about your own wedding, or future show topic requests?  Be in touch on our website: weddingplanningpodcast.co/contact.

Enjoy the show!

Today we're going to run through a 10-item wedding to-do list for when you reach the final 4-6 week countdown before your wedding day. 

While some of the items in today's show are pretty standard, others are much less obvious - and sadly are not commonly discussed. 

Overlooking just one of these important action-items can tip the scales towards a stressful, frantic celebration - and I don't want that for you!

For a complete recap of today's show, visit www.weddingplanningpodcast.co/countdown

Your WEDDING CEREMONY is undoubtedly the most important part of your wedding day celebration - it's literally the WHY of every single thing we touch on here on the Wedding Planning Podcast!

Unfortunately, many couples push the ceremony logistics to the very bottom of their wedding planning to-do list, and as a result, this critical piece of your wedding day misses getting the full attention & creativity that it deserves. 

Tune in to the full show for a start-to-finish guide for infusing your ceremony with deep meaning and your personalities. 

We're also going to cover:

• Ceremony flow of events,
• Who walks who down the aisle, and in what order?
• The role of your officiant / celebrant,
• Intentionally setting the desired vibe with ceremony music & decor,
• Signing your marraige license,
• Tips for finding an officiant, 
• Crafting your wedding vows, 
• And finally, some additional ways to incorporate meaning and personality.

A well-crafted wedding ceremony will perfectly express your relationship as a couple.  It should make your guests understand exactly why they are at the wedding, and may address the couples past, present and future. 

We can be serious, lighthearted, traditional or a mix of all three - your ceremony doesn't have to follow any script, and you're free to personalize this portion of your day in any way you like!

ADDITIONAL LINKS MENTIONED IN TODAY'S EPISODE:

Sample Wedding Vows & Guide / Examples 

Creative unity ceremony ideas 

"Why can't you just tell me the price???"

Have you been victim of a vendor who insists on a lengthy meeting before they will provide you a price range for their services?  This can be incredibly annoying when you are simply trying to determine if something is within your budget, or not.

I have some advice for navigating this frustrating situation, including a copy / paste script for your inquiry emails:

Hi, we are very motivated to choose a photographer {insert service here} for our {insert date here} May 2027 wedding.  {insert how you found them, what sparked your interest}.  Will you kindly share your package options and pricing?  

If the response indicates that you need to book a meeting / call for more info, then simply send a firm response:

Out of respect for both of our time, I need to confirm your pricing range before moving forward.  

Simple, right?

Stick around for a handful of listeners questions, including a convo on how much to tip which vendors.  Spoiler alert - it's NOT an automatic 20% to your entire vendor team.

Wedding questions or show topics you'd like to hear more about?  I have an open door, and would love to hear from you! >>> weddingplanningpodcast.co/contact

Talk soon!

Kara

Today on the Wedding Planning Podcast, we're joined by a very special guest, Tanya Pushkine from The Vow Whisperer.

Tanya  offers professional vow writing support, officiant services, and even wedding ceremony production support, including public speaking coaching.   Tanya will guide you through exactly how to put your heart into words, resulting in crafted wedding vows that are truly meaningful to you & you partner.

Tune in for a behind-the-scenes tour of her process, best practices for creating your wedding vows and ceremony flow, and so much more.

To learn more about working with Tanya, please visit The Vow Whisperer website linked here, and follow her on social media @thevowwhisperer.

Tune in for the most common wedding weekend planning mistakes I see couples make as they formulate the details of a multi-day, multi-event wedding celebration.

In this episode, we highlight 6 common planning mistakes, including:

• Feeling intimidated by the COST of hosting multiple events,
• Trying to accommodate ALL of your guests perfectly (spoiler alert - it's not possible, so don't even try!)
• Failing to consider the endless creative possibilities for food & drinks before committing to an overpriced & underwhelming caterer,
• Not communicating clearly with your guests before, during, and after your wedding weekend experience,
• Getting OVERWHELMED and losing sight of your most important priorities,
• Relying on a DOC to organize and manage things that are not actually their responsibility

Today's highlighted planning mistakes come from couples who I've worked with inside Wedding Weekend By Design, my 6-STEP PLANNING FRAMEWORK that's incredibly easy to follow, and works with any budget, any timeline, and any hosting format. 

For a limited time, Wedding Weekend by Design is available to Apple Premium Subscribers - for FREE!  To access the full planning package, simply subscribe to WPP Premium in your Apple Podcast feed.

Not an Apple user?  No problem.  Head to weddingweekend.co for all the details.

Inside WWBD, I'll show you exactly how to:

• Design your master schedule,
• Budget for various events & pre-parties,
• Find the best venue to fit your vision,
• Uncover creative options & workarounds for food & drinks, 
• Get and stay organized, and make an airtight communication plan,
• And you'll even have access to sample wedding weekend schedules & menus so that you can get inspired by what other couples have done!

I can't wait to see you inside  Wedding Weekend By Design!

Cheers,
Kara

Over the course of 11 YEARS in the wedding industry, I've seen literally thousands of weddings unfold ... and all of them together have given me the priceless gift of HINDSIGHT.

In wedding planning, hindsight is literally a super power - so I've packaged mine up to share with you in today's brand new show featuring your Wedding Weekend planning questions!  

We're going to unpack, decode, and get to the bottom of your questions, including:

• How should we go about offering onsite cabins / rooms to guests in an order that makes sense?
• We're torn between 2 very different "wedding weekend" visions - how do we decide?
• What are some tips for trying to pace events so we don't feel overwhelmed? 
• My fiance and I have totally different visions for how to stock our own bar.  He wants to basically recreate a top-shelf situation with all the liquors and mixers, and I see more of a simplistic set up of beer, wine, maybe a signature cocktail.  Your thoughts?
• How can I get over feeling like we need to please everyone?

Today's highlighted questions come from couples who have followed Wedding Weekend By Design, my 6-STEP PLANNING FRAMEWORK that's incredibly easy to follow, and works with any budget, any timeline, and any hosting format. 

For a limited time, Wedding Weekend by Design is available to Apple Premium Subscribers - for FREE!  To access the full planning package, simply subscribe to WPP Premium in your Apple Podcast feed.

Not an Apple user?  No problem.  Head to weddingweekend.co for all the details.

Inside WWBD, I'll show you exactly how to:

• Design your master schedule,
• Budget for various events & pre-parties,
• Find the best venue to fit your vision,
• Uncover creative options & workarounds for food & drinks, 
• Get and stay organized, and make an airtight communication plan,
• And you'll even have access to sample wedding weekend schedules & menus so that you can get inspired by what other couples have done!

I can't wait to see you inside Wedding Weekend By Design!

Cheers,
Kara