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Welcome to The Real Society Podcast, where we take you behind the scenes of the bridal industry like never before! Hosted by the founders of The Real Society—bridal industry coaches, boutique owners, and social media experts.
—this podcast gives you an exclusive peek into the highs, lows, and everything in between of running a bridal business.
From insider tips and coaching advice for bridal shops to honest conversations about the challenges and triumphs of the bridal world, we’ll share it all.
Whether you’re a bridal shop owner, consultant, or wedding professional, this podcast is your go-to for real talk, expert insights, and all things bridal.
Shelley & Rosie x
24 Episodes
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When it comes to wedding dress shopping, the entourage question always sparks debate — should you bring everyone or keep it small and intimate? In this episode, we’re diving into the pros and cons of big entourages, how they impact the bride’s experience, and what we really think is the perfect number of guests.But we'd also love to hear from you! How many guests do you allow? Do you charge for your bridal appointments?Do you serve prosecco, if yes.. when? At the beginning or when they say yes?Send us a DM on Instagram - @therealsociety_
✨ New Podcast Episode: Hayley Paige – All Things Bridal ✨This week, we sit down with the incredible Hayley Paige to talk all things bridal — from where she finds her inspiration to the creativity behind her designs, the strength of her brand, and just how much she values and loves her stockists. 💖Hayley is truly inspirational — not just in her own story, but in the way she beautifully explains the magic of bridal and what it means to her. ✨She also shares an exciting glimpse into what’s next for her… and trust us, you won’t want to miss it!🎧 Tune in now for an uplifting, behind-the-scenes chat with one of the bridal industry’s most iconic names.
Ever catch yourself scrolling and suddenly feeling behind? Like that boutique is always booked, their reels are always viral, and they always seem to have brides saying yes?This episode is your reality check and your permission slip to stop comparing and start focusing on YOUR business.We’re getting honest about:Why comparison is quietly killing your creativityWhat you don’t see behind someone else’s polished feedHow to refocus your energy so your boutique thrivesYou’re building something real. And real growth doesn’t come from watching others – it comes from knowing your strengths and owning your lane.🎧 Tune in now Let’s block out the noise and get back to doing what makes your boutique brilliant.
Do you ever wonder if you're oversharing... or not showing up enough? In today’s episode, we’re diving into one of the biggest Instagram struggles for bridal boutiques and wedding professionals: ➡️ How much of you should you actually share on your business page?We’re talking real talk about:Why personal content can build serious trust (and bookings)What brides actually want to seeWhere to draw the line between personal and privateHow to stay visible without feeling drained or cringeWhether you’re hiding behind the dresses or unsure how to show up online, this episode will help you find a balance that feels aligned and brings results.
Let’s be honest — being a bridal consultant isn’t just about dresses. Some days, it feels like you’re part stylist, part hype girl… and part therapist.From managing mum’s opinions, bridesmaids in competition, emotional brides, and even total breakdowns in the fitting room — this role asks a lot from you emotionally. But no one ever trains you on that side of the job.In this episode, we’re getting real about:The emotional load of bridal consultingWhen “being nice” turns into people-pleasingWhy emotional boundaries protect your energy and the bride’s experienceWhat to do when a bride trauma-dumps on you (and you're still supposed to sell a dress)If you’ve ever left a Saturday feeling emotionally drained and wondering, "Was that an appointment or a therapy session?" — this one’s for you.You’re not alone. You’re just a bridal consultant doing 17 jobs in one. 💍🧠
If you’ve ever found yourself stressing over low likes, comparing your follower count to other boutiques, or wondering why your Reel didn’t “blow up” — this one’s for you.In today’s episode, we’re calling out vanity metrics for what they really are: a distraction. Because while you’re worrying about likes, you might be ignoring what actually fills your diary — DMs, enquiries, trust, and conversion-focused content.We’ll talk about:Why follower count doesn’t equal footfallThe truth behind “likes” vs bookingsHow to shift your focus from algorithm to actual resultsWhat the best-performing boutiques are doing differently on InstagramIf you’re ready to stop playing the popularity game and start treating your Instagram like the sales tool it is — hit play. And remember, you don’t need 10K followers to have a 10K month.
Are real brides accidentally damaging the bridal industry?In this episode, we’re getting brutally honest about how TikTok trends, pricing hacks, and “try on 100 dresses” content are affecting bridal boutiques everywhere.We talk about what we’re seeing online, how it's impacting real-life appointments, and what boutique owners can actually do to take back control.If you’ve ever had a bride use your appointment to shop online, ask for a dress name and disappear, or treat your boutique like a revolving door — you’re not alone.This is the episode you need to hear.👉 Tag a fellow boutique owner, share this with your team, and let’s open up this convo inside The Real Society.🎧 Press play — it’s time for a reality check.
In this episode of The Real Society Podcast, we’re diving into the unspoken guest list of every bridal appointment: the inner circle. We’ll break down the dynamics behind the bride’s entourage, who’s actually steering the decision, and how you can keep the focus on her vision without stepping on emotional landmines.Expect real talk, relatable consultant moments, and practical coaching tips on:Managing dominant voices in the roomSpotting when a bride’s opinion is being swayedWhether you're a seasoned bridal consultant or boutique owner, this is your reminder that selling the dress isn’t always about the dress — it’s about reading the room.🎧 Listen now and learn how to stay in control of the appointment — without losing the magic.
Red Flags Brides Notice (and Boutique Owners Miss) 🚩In this episode of The Real Society Podcast, we’re diving into what Gen Z and Millennial brides are really thinking when they step into a bridal boutique — and the red flags that send them straight to the next option.From outdated social media and one-size-fits-all vibes, to pushy sales tactics and poor lighting (yes, really), we’re unpacking the subtle signals that are quietly costing boutiques bookings.We cover: 🚩 The red flags modern brides spot instantly 👀 What they're expecting before they even book ✨ How to create a boutique experience that builds trust, connection, and conversion 💡 Practical fixes you can implement right nowIf you’ve ever wondered why your enquiries have slowed or why Gen Z just isn’t engaging the way they used to, this is the episode for you.Grab your coffee and come take a real look at what’s working—and what’s not—in today’s bridal market.
In this episode, we’re joined by one of our OG Real Society members — the gorgeous Jade, founder of Engaged Bridal Studio.Jade opens up about her journey so far in the bridal world — the highs, the hard lessons, and the moments that made her fall in love with the industry. We talk about what it really looks like behind the scenes of running a boutique, and how having the right support (and the right people in your corner) can make all the difference.She shares: 👰 Her boutique story — from start to where she is now 💬 The realities no one warns you about 🤍 What she loves most about being part of The Real Society ✨ And why community in this industry is absolutely invaluableThis one’s full of honesty, humour, and heart — and a must-listen if you’re in the boutique world or dreaming of entering it.
Today, we're sitting down with James, the founder of Bridify—the brand-new app that's set to change the way brides find their perfect boutique.Think Tinder... but for wedding dress shopping. 👗📱 Swipe, match, book—simpler, smarter, and exactly what today's bride has been waiting for.In this episode, we dive into: 🚀 How Bridify is reshaping bridal shopping for the next generation 👰 What this means for boutique owners wanting more qualified bookings 📲 How to get your boutique listed and ahead of the curve 💬 Plus, real insights from James on tech, trends, and the future of bridal marketingThis is one you won't want to miss if you’re serious about growing your boutique in the new digital bridal era.
In this episode, we’re joined by the fabulous April Banbury — bridal designer, bridal consultant, and reality TV star from Married at First Sight UK.Fresh off the launch of her very first bridal collection launch at Harrogate, April takes us behind the seams of her journey — from working in bridal for years, designing pageant dresses, her own wedding dress and then onto designing her own line, We talk: 👗 The inspiration behind her new collection💍 Advice for brides navigating their dress journey📺 What it’s really like being on MAFS💬 And why staying true to yourself in the bridal industry matters more than everWhether you’re a boutique owner, a bride-to-be, or just love bridal.. (or your MAFS biggest fan!) this is one you don’t want to miss!
In this episode, we welcome Emma from MyBridal, the innovative software designed specifically for bridal boutiques. Emma shares how MyBridal can enhance your business operations, from appointment scheduling to customer management ✨Our own Rosie, an avid user of MyBridal, provides her insights and experiences, highlighting the software's impact on her boutique's efficiency.Plus, we discuss the exclusive benefits of being a Real Society member, including special discounts/offers on MyBridal services.Tune in to discover how MyBridal can transform your boutique's workflow and elevate your client experience 🎙You can contact Emma via - https://mybridalsoftware.com/ or email - emma@mybridalsoftware.com
This week, we’re getting real about what it actually looks like to juggle being a mum and a boutique owner — especially when the school holidays hit.We’re talking about: 👩👧 The myth of “balance” (does it even exist?) 📆 How to survive appointment schedules while navigating snack demands and summer clubs 💭 Shelley’s honest take on mum guilt — or rather, her lack of it 🙋♀️ And why it’s okay to not “do it all” perfectly every timeIf you’ve ever felt torn between business and bedtime routines, or struggled to keep the boutique buzzing while parenting full-time — this one’s for you. You’re not alone, and you’re definitely not failing.Grab a coffee and let’s talk about the not-so-glamorous (but very real) side of being a bridal boss and a mum 💕
In this episode, we’re catching up after a whirlwind few weeks in the bridal world—starting with everything we loved (and learned!) from Harrogate Bridal Week, and looking ahead to the excitement of Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week.We’re chatting about: 👗 Key takeaways from Harrogate and what stood out this season 🌍 ✈️ Our thoughts and prep before heading to BBFW—and what we’re expecting to seeIt’s a behind-the-scenes catch-up with real talk, fresh ideas, and that signature TRS energy. Whether you attended Harrogate or just want to feel part of the buzz, this one’s for you.Tune in, catch up, and get inspired before Barcelona! 💫
Bridal might look dreamy from the outside, but behind the scenes? It’s a whirlwind of gown orders, endless appointments, and trying to keep everything (and everyone) together! In this episode, we’re getting real about the chaos of buying season, the pressure of running a bridal business, and how to juggle it all—especially when family life, kids, and a million other responsibilities don’t slow down.We’ll be chatting about: 💡 The reality of buying season—how overwhelming it can feel and how to manage it 🤯 Balancing boutique life with home life (without burning out) 👗 The pressure to “do it all” and why it’s okay to step back sometimes 🔥 Tips for staying sane, setting boundaries, and making it through busy seasonsIf you’re feeling stretched thin, know you’re not alone. Grab a coffee (or a wine, no judgment!) and let’s talk about the not-so-glamorous side of the bridal world. 🎧✨Listen now and let’s navigate this crazy journey together!#BridalBusiness #BoutiqueLife #TheRealSociety #NotSoGlamorous #BridalIndustryTalk
Bridal boutiques are full of magical moments—but let’s be real, they’re also full of absolute chaos! In this episode of The Real Society, we’re diving into the funniest, wildest, and most unexpected stories sent in by our listeners. From wardrobe malfunctions to unforgettable bride (and mother-of-the-bride!) moments, get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at the hilarious reality of bridal appointments.Trust us, you won’t believe some of these stories! So grab a coffee (or a glass of bubbly 🍾), tune in, and get ready to laugh along with us.🎧 Listen now and let us know—what’s the funniest thing that’s ever happened in your boutique?
In this episode of The Real Society, we welcome our very first guest—a bridal boutique owner who has carved out her own space in the industry by discovering her unique selling point (USP). She shares her journey from stepping into the bridal world to unlocking incredible opportunities that have taken her business to new heights. We dive into what makes a boutique truly stand out, how she found her niche, and the game-changing moments that followed. If you're a bridal shop owner looking to refine your brand and attract dream clients, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Brides of today are more informed, style-conscious, and experience-driven than ever before—but what exactly are they looking for when it comes to finding the dress? In this episode, we dive into what modern brides expect from their bridal shopping experience and, more importantly, how you can not only meet but exceed those expectations as a boutique owner.We’ll cover: 👰 The mindset of today’s brides—what they value and what influences their decisions 📲 The role of social media and online research in their bridal journey 💡 How to create an experience that feels personal, seamless, and unforgettable 🔝 Small but powerful ways to go above and beyond, turning brides into raving fansIf you want to stay ahead of the game and provide the kind of bridal experience that truly wows your brides-to-be, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧✨Listen now and let’s redefine what it means to be a next-level bridal boutique!#TheRealSocietyPodcast #BridalBoutiqueSuccess #BridalIndustry #BridalExperience #WeddingDressShoppingDon't forget to follow us on Instagram and join our Bridal Society https://www.instagram.com/therealsociety_/
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025!We are so excited to be back!Ever feel like you’re not good enough, even when you know deep down you’re killing it? 🙋♀️ You’re not alone. In this episode of The Real Society Podcast, we’re diving into imposter syndrome—what it is, why it creeps into our lives, and, most importantly, how to overcome it. 💪✨ Whether you’re a boutique owner doubting your success or a bridal consultant questioning if you’re doing “enough,” we’ve got practical tips and real talk to help you step back into your power.Let’s bust those limiting beliefs and reclaim your confidence—because you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. 👏🎧 Hit play now and let’s tackle imposter syndrome together! Tag a friend who needs to hear this! 💕 #TheRealSocietyPodcast #ImposterSyndrome #BridalIndustryTips
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