Bridechilla - Wedding Planning Podcast

Wedding speeches can go very right… or very wrong. Brian Franklin, co-founder of Vows and Speeches, joins me to share the biggest mistakes, the horror stories you won’t believe, and how to actually nail your speech without overthinking it or making it awkward. We get into what makes a speech land, what instantly loses a room, and how to strike the balance between heartfelt, funny, and memorable without rambling or oversharing. In our sponsored segment, Wendy White, senior manager of training and development for celebrations at Sandals, joins us to share insights into planning unforgettable multi-generational weddings and honeymoons at Beaches Resorts, part of Sandals’ iconic family-friendly collection. Discover how these resorts cater to every age and interest, making family celebrations seamless and joyful. Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. You can also call 1-800-SANDALS or 1-800-BEACHES to learn more. Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step inside Seasons of Love, hosted at the historic The Elliot in Cleveland. In this live episode, Leah is talking with vendors and brides in the middle of planning, sharing what they actually care about, what’s changing, and how to plan without the overwhelm. From shifting priorities to real-time decision making, these conversations give you an inside look at what modern wedding planning actually feels like, beyond the Pinterest boards. Today’s episode is sponsored by Sandals! Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Choosing a wedding venue can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, Leah sits down with Shannon Tarrant, founder of Wedding Venue Map, to break down what couples actually need to know before booking their venue. From budget realities and guest list logistics to hidden restrictions and key questions you should always ask, Shannon shares practical insights to help you avoid common planning pitfalls. They also talk about how couples can balance personalization with practicality, and why the right venue can make the entire planning process smoother from the start. Whether you're just starting your search or narrowing down options, this conversation will help you approach venue shopping with clarity and confidence. Today’s episode is sponsored by Sandals! Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Leah sits down with Ayla and Juliet from Lulus to break down the top bridal fashion trends for Spring 2026. From minimalist wedding dresses paired with bold details to statement accessories that transform a bridal look, they explore what’s resonating with modern couples right now. The conversation covers emerging silhouettes, fabric choices, evolving color trends, and why versatility across wedding weekends matters more than ever. You’ll also hear how celebrity wedding style influences bridal fashion, why personal expression should always come before “rules,” and how to style a wedding look that feels confident, comfortable, and uniquely you. Perfect for brides, stylists, and anyone obsessed with wedding fashion. Shop with Lulus at lulus.com Today’s episode is sponsored by Sandals! Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adrienne Gardner of The Gardner Effect returns to bust the biggest myths in modern wedding planning — from the infamous “wedding tax” to vendor referrals, commissions, and the always-confusing world of tipping. Adrienne also shares unforgettable true stories from her years of planning to show how flexibility, transparency, and experience can make or break a smooth wedding day. Whether you’re newly engaged or deep in planning mode, this episode gives you clarity, confidence, and a whole lot of “oh wow, I never knew that!” 📲Follow Adrienne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gardnereffect/ Or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TGEcoach Today’s episode is sponsored by Sandals! Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bridechilla listener and bride-to-be Sam joins Leah and planner Michelle Elaine for a candid bonus Q&A episode tackling some of the most frustrating parts of wedding planning. What do you do when vendors don’t respond at all? How do you handle being told your dream location “isn’t realistic” for your budget? And how do you know if a planner is the right fit or just not the right fit for you? Leah and Michelle break down how to advocate for yourself, approach vendor conversations with confidence, and navigate wedding etiquette without losing your excitement or your sanity. Because your budget isn’t a limit. It’s a starting point. And with the right guidance, honesty, and creativity, you can still plan a wedding that feels aligned, intentional, and truly yours. Find Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelleelaine/ Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode features an exclusive conversation with wedding planner Michelle Elaine, who is publicly sharing the behind-the-scenes reality of her “Say Yes to the Dress” experience for the very first time, including what did and did not make it to TV. Michelle opens up about the parts of the experience that were exciting and the parts that were challenging, and how being on reality TV intersected with her real life as a wedding professional. She also gets candid about planning her own wedding while navigating intense family dynamics, including calling out a difficult mother-in-law situation that added unexpected stress to what is supposed to be a joyful season. We also have an honest conversation about self-care and mental health in wedding planning, the emotional weight couples and planners carry, and why protecting your peace matters just as much as picking the perfect dress. This is an unfiltered conversation about expectations versus reality, and a reminder that even the experts do not get a perfect, drama-free ride. This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Part 2 drops later this week and features Michelle alongside a Bridechilla bride for a candid Q&A you will not want to miss. 📲 Find Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelleelaine/ In today's sponsored segment, Leah chats with Marsha-Ann Donaldson, the Director of Romance and Weddings at Sandals Resorts, to discuss the rising trend of elopements and micro weddings as couples become more conscious of thier spending. Marsha-Ann introduces Sandals' unique 'Your Wedding on Us' package, which offers couples a stress-free planning experience and includes a honeymoon stay -- as well as the customization options available when planning with Sandals. Learn more about the "Your Wedding on Us" package atStart planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. This episode is sponsored by BriteCo! Get 5% off wedding insurance by visiting https://insurance.brite.co/planner/BRID3 Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leah is joined by Amy Nolan and Carolyn Johnson, owners and senior event producers of An Event Less Ordinary, for a fun, candid, and refreshingly honest conversation about designing a wedding that actually feels like you. With backgrounds in theater, Amy and Carolyn approach weddings like live productions, focusing on flow, timing, room flips, and collaboration with vendors as a true creative team. Throughout the episode, they deliver plenty of spicy hot takes and wedding planning PSAs, sharing what couples should care about, what they can stop stressing over, and where thoughtful planning truly makes a difference. They break down how to find inspiration beyond trends, incorporate out of the ordinary ideas without going overboard, and plan logistics in a way that supports the guest experience instead of creating chaos. The conversation also highlights why Chicago is such an incredible place to get married and how couples can fully lean into its energy and character. If you want expert advice, real talk, and a wedding that feels less ordinary and a lot more intentional, this episode is for you. Our sponsored segment today is with Dustin Lemick, founder and CEO of BriteCo! Leah and Dustin cover the importance of having wedding insurance, and the two main types: wedding liability insurance and wedding cancellation insurance. Dustin highlights how wedding liability insurance protects couples from potential damages or injuries that may occur during the event, while cancellation insurance covers unforeseen circumstances that may force a couple to postpone or cancel their wedding. The conversation also touches on real-life examples of how wedding insurance has saved couples from financial distress, particularly in cases of vendor no-shows or venue bankruptcies. 📲Follow An Event Less Ordinary on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aneventlessordinary/ Today’s episode is sponsored by Sandals! Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. This episode is sponsored by BriteCo! Get 5% off wedding insurance by visiting https://insurance.brite.co/planner/BRID3 Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Melissa Green is a licensed psychologist, wedding wellness coach, and recent encore bride who understands firsthand that wedding planning is about far more than timelines and to-do lists. In this episode, Leah and Dr. Green explore wedding wellness through an emotional and psychological lens—especially for brides over 40, second-time brides, military couples, and those navigating blended families and adult children. They discuss how age, identity, past experiences, and trauma can shape the wedding planning journey, how to set healthy boundaries and manage complex family dynamics, and why emotional support, grounding practices, and self-compassion are essential tools for staying calm, connected, and joyful throughout the process. If you’re planning a wedding while balancing real life, real responsibilities, and real emotions, this conversation is for you. 📲Find Dr. Green on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.melgreen Today’s episode is sponsored by Sandals! Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. This episode is sponsored by BriteCo! Get 5% off wedding insurance by visiting https://insurance.brite.co/planner/BRID3 Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Sarah Hensley, social psychologist and founder of Love Doc Coaching Services, joins Leah to break down attachment styles and how they shape the way we communicate, love, and navigate relationships—especially during major life moments like wedding planning and marriage. Together, they explore how childhood experiences influence adult relationships, the four main attachment styles, and how social media can amplify insecurity, comparison, and miscommunication. Dr. Hensley also shares insights on navigating second marriages, emotional health, and how couples can build stronger, more secure connections by understanding their attachment patterns. Whether you’re engaged, newly married, or simply working on becoming a better partner, this episode offers practical tools and eye-opening takeaways to help you communicate more effectively and stay connected. 🎧Listen to “The Love Doc Podcast” wherever you get your podcasts! Or visit https://thelovedoc.com/ 📲Find Dr. Hensley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.sarahhensley_lovedoc/ And on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drsarahhensley Today’s episode is sponsored by Sandals! Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. This episode is sponsored by BriteCo! Get 5% off wedding insurance by visiting https://insurance.brite.co/planner/BRID3 Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This February, Bridechilla is going to have a special 5-part series focused on the mental health side of wedding planning, as well as people's personal experiences with weddings -- whether they're the bride or the planner! Each episode, Leah creates a space that's funny, honest, and validating - while also giving you practical tools to strengthen communication and protect their relationship during one of life’s most emotionally intense seasons. We'll be covering: attachment styles, love languages, supporting military couples, managing trauma, navigating major life transitions, "encore brides" and much more! Tune in on YouTube -- or wherever you get your podcasts! Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Keith Willard is back, and he is bringing stories, strategy, and straight-talk wedding wisdom. Fresh off a marathon stretch of events, Keith shares what that whirlwind taught him about sanity, planning, and what truly matters on a wedding day. In this conversation, Leah and Keith dive into how couples can create high-impact wedding moments without blowing the budget, why managing expectations is just as important as choosing the right vendors, and what couples should finally stop wasting money and energy on. Keith also shares some of his favorite creative, meaningful ways to elevate your celebration while staying grounded in what really matters. If you want your wedding to feel intentional, elevated, and smartly spent, this episode is for you. Find Keith on Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/keithwillard⁠ Today’s episode is sponsored by Sandals! Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. This episode is sponsored by BriteCo! Get 5% off wedding insurance by visiting https://insurance.brite.co/planner/BRID3 Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emily Cline, founder of Wedding Day Content Creator, joins Leah to dive into the booming world of real-time wedding content creation and how this new role is reshaping the wedding industry. Emily shares what inspired her to launch her company, the moments that matter most on wedding days, and why couples are now booking content creators before photographers and videographers. Leah and Emily discuss what sets a professional content creator apart, red flags to look out for when booking, and how the planning and pre-wedding process works from contract to wedding day. Emily also opens up about the early pushback from photographers and videographers, how the industry has shifted, and why vendor teams are now collaborating more than ever. Whether you're a couple planning your wedding or a vendor adapting to the industry’s fastest-growing service, this episode offers practical insight into the future of modern wedding storytelling. Find Emily on Instagram: instagram.com/weddingdaycontentcreator Today’s episode is sponsored by Sandals! Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. This episode is sponsored by BriteCo! Get 5% off wedding insurance by visiting https://insurance.brite.co/planner/BRID3 Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Leah is joined by renowned wedding planner and author Akeshi Akinseye to explore The Art of Celebrating and what it really means to plan a meaningful, intentional wedding that truly reflects you. Akeshi shares how storytelling, ambiance, and thoughtful details can transform your wedding day from beautiful… to unforgettable. They dive into staying grounded in connection (even with social media pressure!), practical ways to personalize your celebration, smart budgeting strategies, and how to thoughtfully approach one of the toughest planning tasks—your guest list. If you want your wedding to feel as good as it looks, this episode is a must-listen. The Art of Celebration releases on January 27th, 2026! Pre-order now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Walmart! Today’s episode is sponsored by Sandals! Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. This episode is sponsored by BriteCo! Get 5% off wedding insurance by visiting https://insurance.brite.co/planner/BRID3 Join us for a day of live entertainment, brunch, and wedding inspiration at the Seasons of Love event at The Elliot, January 18th, 2026! Tickets are available on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasons-of-love-the-elliots-bridal-show-engagement-party-tickets-1216527870609?aff=oddtdtcreator Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meghan Ely is back to break down the biggest 2026 wedding trends couples need to know. Leah and Meghan chat about Pantone’s Color of the Year and how it compares to Minted + Brides’ wedding color pick. Personalization and guest experiences are taking center stage, while gender-fluid styles are on the rise and capes are making a comeback! If you’re planning a 2026 wedding—or want to stay ahead of what’s next—this episode sets the tone for the year ahead in wedding planning. Today’s episode is sponsored by Sandals! Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Start planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. This episode is sponsored by BriteCo! Get 5% off wedding insurance by visiting https://insurance.brite.co/planner/BRID3 Join us for a day of live entertainment, brunch, and wedding inspiration at the Seasons of Love event at The Elliot, January 18th, 2026! Tickets are available on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasons-of-love-the-elliots-bridal-show-engagement-party-tickets-1216527870609?aff=oddtdtcreator Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Choosing a wedding venue shouldn’t feel like decoding a mystery. Leah breaks down the biggest venue red flags that couples overlook with wedding planner Adrienne Gardner — with tips on how to spot them early. They dig into exclusive vendor lists, confusing policies, communication issues, and the venue factors that actually impact your budget and guest experience. Adrienne brings real-world insight from years in the industry, giving couples the clarity and confidence they need to pick a venue that truly supports their vision. Find Adrienne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gardnereffect/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TGEcoach This episode is sponsored by BriteCo! Get 5% off wedding insurance by visiting https://insurance.brite.co/planner/BRID3 Join us for a day of live entertainment, brunch, and wedding inspiration at the Seasons of Love event at The Elliot, January 18th, 2026! Tickets are available on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seasons-of-love-the-elliots-bridal-show-engagement-party-tickets-1216527870609?aff=oddtdtcreator Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices