Bridechilla - Wedding Planning Podcast

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

Bridechilla went LIVE at The Elliot in Tremont, and we tackled one of the biggest questions couples ask: what’s the real difference between a wedding planner and a venue coordinator? Leah is joined on stage by founder Stephanie Ridgely (The Elliot) and wedding planner Brandi Fisher (All Events Planned) for a candid, clarity-packed conversation about roles, boundaries, expectations, and the myths that cause major planning confusion. Get ready for plenty of “Ohhh, NOW I get it!” moments as we break down: What each role truly handles Where responsibilities overlap (and where they don’t) What couples should never assume How the right support team prevents day-of chaos Find the Elliot on Instagram: http://instagram.com/theelliotcle Find Brandi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/alleventsplanned 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

Join Leah and luxury event planner Keith Willard for a deep dive into the craft of unforgettable wedding planning. From organizing childhood penny drives to collaborating with industry icons like Colin Cowie and David Tutera, Keith shares how his journey shaped his signature, high-touch approach. Together, they explore: How to create an amazing wedding at any budget—whether it’s $5K or $500 The emotional impact of thoughtful, personal touches Insider insights from celebrity weddings Smart planning tools including wedding websites, QR codes, and AI Plus, Keith shares behind-the-scenes details from Jennifer Lopez & Ben Affleck’s wedding—and what everyday couples can learn from high-profile events. This is a must-listen for couples, planners, and anyone who believes the experience is the event. Find Keith on Instagram: https://www.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 also 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

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 wedding cakes right now. Armana shares insider advice on: Choosing your cake style & flavor (trust your taste buds!) The truth about buttercream vs. fondant Serving sizes, pricing & contracts (no surprise fees!) Texture, color & décor ideas for your design Dietary-friendly and allergy-safe options Creative dessert alternatives and cutting cake ideas From dramatic sugar art to modern minimalist textures and dessert-table pairings, we’re giving you the sweetest insider scoop to make your cake taste as good as it looks. Find Armana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.cakesbakery.az/ 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 also 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

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 everything in between, we’re covering the adorable and the behind-the-scenes logistics. You’ll learn: ✅ How to know if your pet is wedding-day ready ✅ Roles pets can play that match their personality ✅ Why a pet-attendant is a total sanity-saver ✅ Venue rules, guest allergies & etiquette tips ✅ Pet-safety must-haves — weather, hydration & insurance ✅ Backup plans for behavior, “oops,” and surprise chaos moments Because your wedding should be full of love, laughs, and maybe one very good boi making an entrance. 🐶 We're also joined by Dustin Lemick, CEO and Founder of our sponsor, BriteCo, for a segment covering jewelry insurance and how best to protect your jewelry -- before, during, and after your wedding! Find Veronica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pawfectforyou/ 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 also 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

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 this” vibes, or “I already booked a florist” levels of enthusiasm, we break down how to set loving, respectful boundaries, stay grounded in what matters, and keep the peace without losing yourself in the process. Because your wedding shouldn’t feel like you’re starring in Everybody Loves Raymond: Bridal Edition. You can honor your family and honor your wedding. You don’t have to choose. Follow Glow Weddings on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gloweddings/ 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 https://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

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 and Leah unpack how to stay inspired, intentional, and excited about your big day. Find Jamie on Instagram: @mangomuseevents 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 https://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

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 celebration that’s meaningful and financially sane, this episode is your wedding-planning reality check. Find Michelle on Instagram: @michelleelaine ⁠Get tickets to the November 13th LIVE Bridechilla Show in Cleveland, Ohio! 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 https://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

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 from “I do” to the last dance. Follow Kevin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fsesevents/ 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 https://sandals.com/. ⁠Get tickets to the November 13th LIVE Bridechilla Show in Cleveland, Ohio! 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

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: https://www.instagram.com/mangomuseevents 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

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 real about what’s at stake when communication breaks down. Find Craig on Instagram: ​​https://www.instagram.com/petermanphotoandvideo/ ⁠Get tickets to the November 13th LIVE Bridechilla Show in Cleveland, Ohio! Episodes Referenced: From Social Media Inspiration to Signature Style with Julian Ribinik (Episode 480) 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

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 timeless storytelling, capture genuine emotion, and create a wedding that truly reflects your love story. Find Julian on Instagram: https://instagram.com/julianribinikstudios Get tickets to the November 13th LIVE Bridechilla Show in Cleveland, Ohio! 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

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 playlist to be anything but basic, this is the episode for you. Follow Johnny on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnnyplayskeys Follow Johnny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnnyplayskeys/ Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Station: http://station.page/bridechilla - Facebook: http://facebook.com/theBridechilla/ - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Find Natalia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilacstudiosweddings/ Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Station: http://station.page/bridechilla - Facebook: http://facebook.com/theBridechilla/ - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 world you say yes. Find Apricity Event Co. on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/apricityevent.co/ Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Station: http://station.page/bridechilla - Facebook: http://facebook.com/theBridechilla/ - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 world. From transforming spaces into unforgettable experiences to tailoring designs that capture each couple’s personality, Sean shares how balloons can turn your event into pure magic. Find Sean on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/BALLOONGUYLA/ Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Station: http://station.page/bridechilla - Facebook: http://facebook.com/theBridechilla/ - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices