Best Clay McDermott Podcasts (2025)

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488 - Wedding Cakes: Flavors, Frosting & Fresh Ideas with Armana Christianson 1:01:02

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4h ago1:01:02

1:01:02

Whether you're dreaming of a towering classic cake or a chic minimalist masterpiece, this episode has you covered. 🍰✨ Leah chats with wedding cake designer Armana Christianson of A. Cakes Bakery to break down everything couples need to know — from cake tastings and flavor pairings to fondant vs. buttercream, budgeting, and what’s trending in weddin…

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The Insane Productivity of Andrew Ross Sorkin 1:16:35

4h ago1:16:35

1:16:35

Andrew Ross Sorkin does the work of about five people. He founded and writes the DealBook newsletter for the New York Times. He hosts Squawk Box on CNBC every morning at 6am. He runs the DealBook Summit, which has become the premier annual interview event across business, policy, and technology. He co-created the TV show Billions. He wrote the defi…

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487 - How to Have a Pet-Friendly Wedding (Without the Chaos) with Pawfect For You 1:11:32

7d ago1:11:32

1:11:32

Your fur baby is part of the family — so naturally they deserve a moment in the wedding-day spotlight. Leah chats with Veronica Silghigian, CEO of Pawfect for You, about how to include your pets in your big day while keeping things joyful, safe, and stress-free (for you and your four-legged VIP).From ring-bearing pups to aisle-trotting cats and eve…

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486 - Setting Boundaries With Moms (…and MILs) with Gloweddings 55:19

14d ago55:19

55:19

We adore moms… until they turn into honorary co-planners with Very Big Opinions™. This week, Leah chats with Gloweddings’ mother–daughter team Sarona Farrell and Alicia Sowa about balancing love, tradition, and boundaries when the mom-squad is a little too invested in your wedding vision. Whether it’s “Back in my day…” energy, “But I'm paying for t…

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485 - Overcoming Wedding Planning Fatigue with Jamie Chang 55:39

21d ago55:39

55:39

Wedding planning can feel like a marathon — especially in a world flooded with picture-perfect trends and endless decision-making. Jamie Chang of Mango Muse Events returns to share practical strategies for beating wedding planning fatigue. From balancing social media inspiration with your true vision to managing stress over long timelines, Jamie an…

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484 - Balancing Wedding Dreams & Budgets with Michelle Elaine 56:53

28d ago56:53

56:53

Dream wedding, not debt spiral 💸✨ From navigating rising costs to tuning out social media pressure, Leah sits down with wedding planner Michelle Elaine to get real about what truly matters on your big day. They break down smart budgeting tips, how to align your vision with your values, and the long-term impact of wedding debt. If you’re planning a …

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483 - Wedding Entertainment That Wows with Kevin Dennis 56:05

1M ago56:05

56:05

Kevin Dennis of Fantasy Sound Event Services joins Leah to break down everything couples need to know about wedding entertainment — from live bands vs. DJs to blending cultures and choosing unique experiences that wow your guests. They also explore why entertainment should be a key factor when choosing your venue, so your party flows seamlessly fro…

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482 - Love, Loss & Celebration: Wedding Planning Through Grief with Jamie Chang 32:49

1M ago32:49

32:49

Grief doesn’t pause for life’s big moments. Leah sits down with Jamie Chang of Mango Muse Events to talk about the realities of wedding planning while grieving. From finding space for your emotions to creative ways to include loved ones who’ve passed, this conversation offers comfort, perspective, and practical support. Find Jamie on Instagram: htt…

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481- Wedding Vendor Ghosting: Don’t Be That Couple with Craig Peterman 37:47

2M ago37:47

37:47

Ghosting a vendor after you’ve booked them? Not a good look. Leah sits down with photographer and videographer Craig Peterman to talk about what happens behind the scenes when couples disappear, why pricing transparency matters, and how to build strong, respectful vendor relationships. From awkward follow-ups to legal implications, we’re keeping it…

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480- From Social Media Inspiration to Signature Style: Crafting Unique Weddings with Award-Winning Photographer Julian Ribinik 1:02:45

2M ago1:02:45

1:02:45

It’s easy to fall in love with wedding ideas you see on Pinterest, Instagram, and TikTok — but how do you make them your own? Leah chats with Julian Ribinik, an award-winning NYC photographer and recent RSVP Club honoree, about transforming inspiration into authentic, one-of-a-kind celebrations. They explore how to balance trend-driven ideas with t…

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479- Wedding Music That Doesn’t Suck: Expert Advice from Johnny Herbert 25:29

2M ago25:29

25:29

Let’s be real—bad wedding music kills the vibe. 💀 Luckily, musician Johnny Herbert is here with expert advice to save your dance floor. Leah gets the scoop on how to ditch the overplayed tracks, pick songs that scream you, and sneak in a few crowd-pleasers that’ll have Aunt Karen and your college crew dancing side by side. If you want your wedding …

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478- From Traditions to Modern Twists: Polish & Ukrainian Weddings with Natalia Zuk 41:54

2M ago41:54

41:54

Leah welcomes Natalia Zuk of Natalia Lilac Studios to explore how Polish and Ukrainian couples are blending centuries-old traditions with modern wedding trends. From family-centered customs like the symbolic vodka and salt ceremony to fresh, personalized twists, this episode shows how cultural heritage can make your celebration even more meaningful…

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477- Destination Wedding Planning in Europe & NYC: Expert Advice from Apricity Event Co. 59:57

2M ago59:57

59:57

Whether you’re dreaming of a château in France or a rooftop in NYC, planning a destination wedding means balancing vision and logistics. Leah welcomes Rachel Urban and Beryl Beylot of Apricity Event Co. to share practical advice on choosing the right location, managing vendors abroad, and creating a celebration that feels like you—wherever in the w…

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476- The Art of Balloons: Blow Minds, Not Just Balloons with Sean Edwards, “The Balloon Guy” 29:48

3M ago29:48

29:48

This week on Bridechilla, Leah chats with Sean Edwards—better known as The Balloon Guy—whose breathtaking creations prove balloons are anything but basic. What started as a childhood hobby has grown into a global sensation, with Sean bringing larger-than-life installations, whimsical details, and pure joy to weddings and celebrations around the wor…

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How to Live in Everyone Else's Future (with Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke) 1:49:21

3M ago1:49:21

1:49:21

Tobi is one of the most thoughtful people in the technology industry. He's also one of the very few people who started as a programmer -- just trying to solve his own problem -- and still runs his company as CEO today even as it approaches a $200B market cap. Tobi has done this in two big ways: first, a willingness throw away his past beliefs in th…

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475- When Weddings Meet Politics: A Conversation with Margaux Fraise 56:59

3M ago56:59

56:59

Leah sits down with Margaux Fraise, owner of Harmony Creative Studios and host of the Wedding Summit Series, to explore the intricate relationship between politics and weddings. From navigating family dynamics to choosing vendors that align with your values, Margaux shares her insights on how political and cultural factors influence modern weddings…

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474- Travel & Weddings: The Perfect Match with Katy Nastro from Going 51:14

3M ago51:14

51:14

This episode is sponsored by Going. This week, Leah chats with Katy Nastro, spokesperson and travel expert from Going, about the intersection of travel and weddings. Discover how Going helps travelers find affordable flights, the impact of pop culture on travel trends, and tips for planning destination weddings. Whether you're a seasoned traveler o…

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473 – Taylor & Travis, ICE Raids, and AITA Weddings with Janice Carnevale 40:30

3M ago40:30

40:30

Join Leah as she welcomes back Janice Carnevale of Bellwether Events to discuss the latest trends and influences in the wedding industry. rom the spectacle of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement to real AITA-style conflicts playing out among wedding guests and wedding parties, plus the serious ripple effects of ICE raids and military presenc…

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472- Wedding Flower Inspiration, Budget Tips & Color Palette Ideas with Michelle Maslowski 57:13

3M ago57:13

57:13

From dreamy bouquets to stunning ceremony arches, Bridechilla is here to help you make your wedding flowers unforgettable—without blowing your budget. This week, floral designer Michelle Maslowski of One of a Kind Events shares her favorite flower trends, tips for picking the perfect color palette, and smart ways to save on blooms. Whether you’re p…

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471- From Mocktails to Budtenders: Unique Wedding Trends with Jesse Richman-Reing 41:26

4M ago41:26

41:26

Planning a wedding that feels truly you? 💍 In this episode of Bridechilla, Leah chats with newlywed Jesse Richman-Reing about her one-of-a-kind celebration, featuring a drag queen MC, a craft mocktail bar, and cannabis-friendly “budtender” service. Jesse shares tips for incorporating personal style into your wedding day, navigating alcohol-free and…

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How is AI Different Than Other Technology Waves? (With Bret Taylor and Clay Bavor) 1:14:53

4M ago1:14:53

1:14:53

Is AI just better software? Or something completely different that requires a new paradigm to understand? Today we sit down with Bret Taylor and Clay Bavor, two of the best product builders in the world to tackle that question. Bret and Clay are the co-founders of the AI company Sierra. Brett's resume reads like a greatest hits of Silicon Valley: c…

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470- “Twice Upon a Time” – Hayley Paige on Her Comeback, Creativity, and Bridal Fashion 35:44

4M ago35:44

35:44

Hayley Paige is BACK and writing her next chapter with purpose and sparkle! In this episode, Leah chats with the beloved bridal designer about her brand-new collection, Twice Upon a Time—a powerful symbol of reinvention, resilience, and reimagined creativity. From reclaiming her name and finding joy again in design, to embracing her love of music a…

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469- Mastering Your Wedding Day Timeline with Gina Jokilehto of Shi Shi Events 1:08:10

4M ago1:08:10

1:08:10

Planning your wedding day timeline doesn’t have to be overwhelming—promise! This week, Leah is joined in-studio by Gina Jokilehto of Shi Shi Events, a seasoned planner with 20 years of experience helping couples create smooth, stress-free wedding days. We dig into how to build a timeline that actually works (yes, including how long hair and makeup …

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468- How to Personalize Your Wedding: Telling Your Love Story with Farhan of Wedding Erah 50:58

4M ago50:58

50:58

In this episode of Bridechilla, Leah sits down with Farhan, founder of Wedding Erah, to talk about how couples can create a personalized, unforgettable wedding experience. From choosing the right venue and color palette to incorporating cultural elements and unique details, Farhan shares expert tips on how to craft a celebration that’s authenticall…

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467- Eloping in Mexico City: Colorful, Chill & Uniquely You with Jenny Mac of Eloping is Fun 59:10

4M ago59:10

59:10

Jenny Mac of Eloping is Fun is back on Bridechilla—and this time, she’s taking her magic from New York City to the bold, colorful energy of Mexico City! From street tacos and jaw-dropping architecture to chill vibes and heartfelt moments, Jenny shares why Mexico City is the next dream destination for couples ditching tradition in favor of fun, low-…

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466- Weddings Reimagined: VR Vows, Smart Rings & the Rise of Intimacy Tech | Bridechilla x Somewhere on Earth 37:58

5M ago37:58

37:58

We’re collaborating with Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast this week to discuss intimacy tech, virtual reality ceremonies, and even hologram guests! Leah joins Gareth Mitchell, host of Somewhere on Earth in conversation with award-winning body-tech pioneer Professor Ghislaine Boddington. Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast is a we…

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465- 90s & 2000s Pop Culture Weddings: The Bridechilla Nerd Club Returns 1:10:13

5M ago1:10:13

1:10:13

The Bridechilla Nerd Club is back — and we’re throwing it back hard! Leah, Meghan Ely, and Kevin Dennis rewind to the glory days of butterfly clips, boy bands, and blockbuster rom-coms to spill the tea on how pop culture from the '90s and early 2000s has shaped weddings as we know them. From The Wedding Singer to Say Yes to the Dress, we’re serving…

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464- AI Weddings & Digital ‘I Do’s’: How Tech is Transforming Your Big Day | Bridechilla x Somewhere on Earth 36:09

5M ago36:09

36:09

This week, we’re collaborating with Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast to discuss when (and when not) to use AI in planning your wedding. Leah joins Gareth Mitchell, host of Somewhere on Earth, to explore how to use AI assistants to streamline your planning, create usable lists of guests, and effortlessly create seating charts – without th…

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463- “Day-Of Coordinator” Is a Myth: Wedding Planning Truths with Nora Culley Tuck 1:14:52

5M ago1:14:52

1:14:52

Wedding expert Nora Culley Tuck returns to Bridechilla to help bust one of the biggest myths in modern weddings: the idea that a “day-of coordinator” is all you need. We break down what planners, coordinators, and event managers really do—and how understanding the difference can save you major stress (and money). We also dive into one of the most e…

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462- The Rise of Off-Season Wedding Dates with Mary Kate Morrissey 54:14

5M ago54:14

54:14

Mary Kate Morrissey of MK Your Dream Day joins Leah to chat about shaking up wedding norms! They discuss the awesome perks of off-season dates, the beauty of intimate micro-weddings, and modern spins on old traditions. From smart budgeting and timeline tricks to navigating family drama and nailing your guest list. Whether you’re dreaming big or kee…

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461- 10 Years of Marriage Equality: Inclusivity, Trends & Real Talk with Brittny Drye 41:52

5M ago41:52

41:52

Leah sits down with Brittny Drye, Editor-in-Chief of Love Inc. magazine, to celebrate 10 years of marriage equality—and 10 years of love—with cover stars Lance Bass and his husband Michael Turchin. They chat about what true inclusivity in the wedding world looks like for LGBTQ+ couples and beyond. From the return of '90s vibes at New York Bridal Fa…

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460- Writing Entertaining Wedding Speeches with Heidi Ellert-McDermott 1:21:32

6M ago1:21:32

1:21:32

Looking for advice on writing (or helping someone else write) a wedding speech that will keep your guests engaged? Heidi Ellert-McDermott of Speechy is here with Leah to help you! Heidi and Leah talk about dealing with family dynamics, writing heartfelt and real speeches, and handling people who just assume they’re giving a speech at your wedding. …

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459- Second Weddings Redefined with Jesse Reing 57:16

6M ago57:16

57:16

Planning your second wedding? Leah is joined by wedding planner Jesse Reing of Events by Jesse for a heartfelt, myth-busting conversation about what it really means to celebrate love again. From rethinking guest lists and RSVPs to ditching outdated “rules” (yes, you can wear white and have a big wedding!), Jesse shares practical advice and emotiona…

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Building the Savannah Bananas (with Jesse Cole, Founder and Owner) 1:15:19

6M ago1:15:19

1:15:19

The Savannah Bananas have created a whole new sport. It’s baseball, but it’s not. It’s fast-paced, exciting, and incredibly entertaining. For example, if you're batting, and you step out of the batter’s box... it’s a strike. If you bunt, you’re out. If a fan catches a foul ball… you’re also out. Games are capped at two hours with no exceptions. It’…

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458- 2025 Annual Pinterest Wedding Trend Report with Sydney Stanback 1:01:38

6M ago1:01:38

1:01:38

What’s hot in weddings for 2025? Leah Haslage sits down with Pinterest’s Sydney Stanback to spill the tea on the biggest trends hitting the aisle—many of them driven by Gen Z’s bold, unapologetically personal style. Think 90s nostalgia with a modern twist, the unexpected elegance of brown, and nature-inspired glam that’s anything but basic. They’ll…

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457- LGBTQIA+ Marriage & Legal Prep with Bridelawyer 1:10:12

6M ago1:10:12

1:10:12

Shari Rivkind and Morgan Weil of Bridelawyer are back with more essential legal wisdom—this time focused on LGBTQIA+ couples! In this empowering and practical episode, Shari and Morgan break down what you need to know about getting legally hitched, from prenups and cohabitation agreements to family dynamics and beyond. Drawing from their new book “…

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456- Pop Culture & Weddings with Meghan Ely and Kevin Dennis 1:03:43

6M ago1:03:43

1:03:43

Ever wonder how celeb weddings and your favorite movies sneak their way into your wedding plans? We're exploring the pop culture moments that have seriously shaped how we tie the knot – think Princess Diana's iconic style, the backyard bash vibes from "Father of the Bride," and the luxe details of "Crazy Rich Asians." We’re looking at how celebriti…

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Undoing a $5 Billion Acquisition and Building a Durable Standalone Plaid (with Plaid CEO Zach Perret) 1:01:20

7M ago1:01:20

1:01:20

We sit down with Zach Perret, CEO of Plaid, to discuss the remarkable journey of Plaid and the broader fintech landscape over the past several years. Zach takes us blow-by-blow through journey of almost getting acquired by Visa, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic… which quickly reversed with ZIRP tailwinds, and how Plaid navigated th…

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455- From TikTok Trends to Traditions: Your Night Choreo's Dance Guide 42:45

7M ago42:45

42:45

Want to nail your wedding dance? Krista and Kelvin Ramirez from Your Night Choreo are sharing their tips on picking the perfect first dance song and fun wedding party dance numbers! They also discuss managing expectations, the importance of practice, and how this experience can strengthen your bond. Whether you're a dance pro or just want to avoid …

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454- Preserving Your Love Story with No Story Lost’s Andrew Hall 33:46

7M ago33:46

33:46

Andrew Hall, co-founder of No Story Lost, chats with Leah this week about the power of storytelling to preserve your most precious memories! Andrew shares the inspiration behind No Story Lost and why capturing authentic moments matters more than ever. Use the code “Bridechilla” at checkout at nostorylost.com for 2 free extra copies of your book to …

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453- Planning an Eco-Friendly Wedding with Jamie Chang 1:26:00

7M ago1:26:00

1:26:00

Wedding planner and sustainability expert Jamie Chang is here to chat about planning eco-friendly weddings that don’t skimp on style! Leah and Jamie cover everything from sustainable attire to reducing food waste and supporting local vendors. Jamie, founder of Mango Muse Events, has practical tips for incorporating sustainable choices into your flo…

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452- Revolutionizing Wedding Registries with Honeyfund’s Sara Margulis 43:55

7M ago43:55

43:55

This week, Sara Margulis, CEO and founder of Honeyfund, joins us to chat about how honeymoon registries came to become a popular choice, reflecting a shift towards experiences over stuff. Get practical tips on open communication when planning trips together and wedding financial planning. We touch on personalizing traditions, the joys of a good rec…

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451- The Hidden Costs of At-Home Weddings with Janice Carnevale (Part 2) 58:32

7M ago58:32

58:32

Janice Carnevale, founder of Bellwether Events is back to chat with Leah about hidden costs, affordable options, and common misconceptions about at-home weddings. Tune in for tips on prioritizing expenses, the realities of doing full DIY weddings, and wedding trend hot takes! Get Janice’s eBook of tips and practical advice, “The Elegant At-Home Wed…

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450- Trending Now: At-Home Weddings with Janice Carnevale (Part 1) 54:47

8M ago54:47

54:47

Janice Carnevale, founder of Bellwether Events, joins Leah to discuss the intricacies of planning at-home weddings! She shares her insights as a luxury home-wedding planner and highlights the importance of coordinating logistics and extra considerations to make sure your guests are taken care of, no matter your budget! Tune in next Monday for the r…

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449- Crafting Memorable Wedding Vows and Speeches with Brian Franklin 1:03:42

8M ago1:03:42

1:03:42

Brian Franklin, co-founder of Vows & Speeches, joins Leah to discuss his insights and advice on writing wedding vows and speeches. They highlight the common pitfalls in vow writing and how to avoid them, as well as the impact that generative AI, like ChatGPT, has on wedding speeches. Find Vows & Speeches on Instagram @vowsandspeeches Today’s Sponso…

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448- Why Wedding Insurance Is Important with Dustin Lemick 35:40

8M ago35:40

35:40

This episode is sponsored by BriteCo! Dustin Lemick, CEO of BriteCo, joins us this week to discuss the intricacies and importance of having wedding and jewelry insurance. Dustin and Leah chat about insurance offered by BriteCo, including wedding cancellation and liability, as well as the unique aspects of jewelry insurance! They also discuss the mu…

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447- Bridal Shopping Secrets with Patrice Catan and Rebecca Somnitz 1:22:46

8M ago1:22:46

1:22:46

Rebecca Somnitz and Patrice Catan talk with Leah this week about tips on choosing the perfect wedding gown, the true meaning of “couture”, and the realities of running a bridal salon. Tune in to hear their takes on trending styles, bustles, and much more! Rebecca Somnitz is the owner of Something White Bridal in Independence, Ohio. Find Rebecca on …

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446- Creating an Unforgettable Wedding Experience with Nora Culley Tuck 1:06:41

9M ago1:06:41

1:06:41

Nora Culley Tuck, owner and creative director of Engaged with Nora, is with us this week to discuss the challenges couples face when planning weddings, her approach to defining wedding aesthetics, and ways to save money while still creating a memorable event. Find Nora on Instagram at @engagedwithnora Visit thebridechilla.com for all the latest new…

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445- Essential Tips for Blending Families with Deliece Knights-Barnett 52:15

9M ago52:15

52:15

Deliece Knights-Barnett, founder and CEO of Dhalia Events, joins us this week to discuss the complexities of moving in together and blending families. Deliece and Leah chat about some essential considerations to make – including financial management, household maintenance styles, and the importance of communication and compromise. Find Deliece on I…

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444- Eloping is Fun with Jenny Mac 1:06:22

9M ago1:06:22

1:06:22

Want to ditch the big wedding and elope? This episode's for you! Jenny Mac, creator of New York City-based Eloping is Fun, joins us this week to chat about the next steps after deciding to elope, as well as the creative ways couples are balancing traditions with a more intimate elopement or micro-wedding. Find Eloping is Fun on Instagram at @elopin…