Weddings Unscripted – Details, episodes & analysis

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 this episode of Weddings Unscripted, Alexandra Pare and Alison discuss the intricacies of wedding budgeting. They explore how to determine a budget, the importance of understanding costs associated with various vendors, and the impact of family contributions. The conversation emphasizes the need for clear communication with clients about their expectations and the realities of wedding expenses. Through personal anecdotes and client stories, they highlight the importance of prioritizing elements of the wedding and educating clients on potential costs, ultimately guiding them to make informed decisions about their special day. In this episode, Alison and Alexandra discuss the intricacies of wedding budgeting, sharing personal stories and client experiences that highlight the challenges and surprises that can arise during the planning process. They emphasize the importance of understanding vendor costs, the impact of COVID on pricing, and the necessity of leaving a buffer in the budget for unexpected expenses. The conversation also touches on the significance of tipping and the hidden costs that can catch couples off guard. Overall, the episode serves as a comprehensive guide for couples navigating their wedding budgets.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding your total budget is crucial.
• Guest count significantly impacts your budget.
• Prioritize your non-negotiables for the wedding.
• Initial conversations with clients set the tone for budgeting.
• Family contributions can complicate budget discussions.
• Educating clients on costs is essential for planning.
• Different vendors have varying costs and requirements.
• Venue and catering often take up the largest portion of the budget.
• Client expectations may not align with reality.
• Every wedding budget is unique and should reflect personal priorities. Budgets are essential in wedding planning.
• Client experiences can reveal budgeting challenges.
• Transportation costs can be significant.
• COVID has impacted vendor pricing.
• Tipping should be factored into the budget.
• Hidden costs can arise unexpectedly.
• Understanding vendor rules is crucial.
• Leave a buffer in your budget for surprises.
• Don't put all your money into one vendor category.
• Communication with clients about budget is key.

Learn more about Alex and Ali:

Website: https://weddingsunscripted.com/ | https://cherryblossomwe.com/ 

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

In our second episode of Weddings Unscripted, Ali and I reflect on the wedding trends of the past year, diving into fashion, guest experiences, and the importance of personalization. We share our insights on how wedding fashion is evolving, the rise of mocktails, and why creating unique experiences for guests matters more than ever. We also discuss some unexpected challenges we’ve encountered in the industry—like double bookings—and the creative solutions that came out of them. Tune in now!

Chapters:

(02:47) Fashion Trends in Weddings

(05:54) Guest and Vendor Fashion Trends

(09:12) Unique Experiences and Interactive Elements

(14:53) Mocktails and Beverage Trends

(21:27) Color Trends and Personalization in Weddings

(30:01) Unexpected Moments and Industry Challenges

Key Takeaways:

• Fashion trends are evolving with more personalized styles.
• Bridesmaids are now choosing their own dresses more frequently.
• Guests are encouraged to dress according to wedding themes.
• Mocktails are becoming a staple at weddings.
• Color creativity is on the rise, with vibrant palettes being favored.
• Personalization is key to making weddings unique.
• Unexpected challenges can lead to creative problem-solving.
• The wedding industry is adapting to new guest expectations post-pandemic.
• Interactive elements are enhancing guest experiences at weddings.
• Fashion is becoming a significant part of the wedding narrative.

Learn more about Alex and Ali:

Website: https://weddingsunscripted.com/ | https://cherryblossomwe.com/ 

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

Welcome to Weddings Unscripted. It’s finally here—our very first episode!

It's your hosts Alexandra Pare and Alison Golt from Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events. Join us as we discuss our experiences in the wedding planning industry, the evolution of wedding trends, and the importance of education in navigating the complexities of wedding planning.

We share our personal anecdotes, insights into our company, and the challenges and joys of working in this dynamic field. This episode sets the stage for future discussions on nineteen years of wedding planning, trends, and client relationships.

Chapters:

1. Introduction to Weddings Unscripted
2. The Journey of Cherry Blossom Weddings
3. The Evolution of Wedding Trends
4. Behind the Scenes of Wedding Planning
5. The Importance of Education in Wedding Planning
6. Navigating Wedding Trends and Client Expectations
7. The Role of a Wedding Planner
8. Unexpected Moments in Weddings
9. Looking Ahead: Future Topics and Trends

Key Takeaways:

• Weddings can be both beautiful and unpredictable.
• Smaller wedding cakes are becoming a trend.
• Hiring a wedding planner can alleviate stress.
• The importance of having an advocate on your wedding day.
• Wedding design has evolved significantly over the years.
• Education is key in the wedding planning process.
• Trends in weddings can change rapidly.
• It's essential to balance trends with timeless elements.
• The logistics of a wedding are just as important as the aesthetics.
• Sharing experiences helps educate and guide clients.

Learn more about Alex and Ali:

Website: https://weddingsunscripted.com/ | https://cherryblossomwe.com/ 

Instagram: @weddings_unscripted

With over 18 years of experience in planning and designing weddings, our team reflects on the incredible stories we've had the privilege of being a part of, the challenges we've overcome, and the evolution of the wedding planning industry. Driven by a passion for education and supporting others, we invite engaged couples to join us for valuable insights and expert guidance on navigating the planning process. Whether you're unsure where to begin or seeking advice along the way, we welcome you to laugh, learn, and grow with us as we explore the exciting and sometimes unpredictable world of wedding planning.

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