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Weddings Unfiltered
Weddings Unfiltered
Author: Shelby Ogden, Lisa McGee, Jessica Mauger
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© 2024 Weddings Unfiltered
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Welcome to Weddings Unfiltered – the no-BS podcast diving into the wild, wonderful, and sometimes WTF world of weddings. From raw advice to laughs and behind-the-scenes drama, we’ve got you covered. So grab a drink, take a breath, and let’s get real. This is Weddings Unfiltered.
58 Episodes
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As we head into 2026, we’re sitting down for an honest, no-BS reflection on what 2025 really taught us as wedding vendors and what we’re consciously taking (and leaving behind) moving forward.In this episode of Weddings Unfiltered, we talk burnout, being chronically busy, learning when to stop saying yes, and why more weddings doesn’t always mean a better business. We unpack raising prices, building teams, stepping back from being everywhere at once, and redefining success beyond packed calendars and constant hustle.This is a raw, funny, and emotional conversation about sustainability, energy, family, and longevity in the wedding industry and a 2026 reset for vendors who are tired, ambitious, and ready to do things differently. Join The Wedding Vendor Academy: https://weddingswithshelby.com.au/wva-enrollBook Jem Weddings Deluxe Coordination: https://www.jemweddings.com.au/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingsunfiltered_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Be our next guest: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/p2yfwj1RC7MdEraxuiTRShare your story: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/Qu8nKxCGuFNOP2EOTBZj
In this episode, we sit down with two floral powerhouses Bec from Belle A Fleur and Deb from Ruby & Dulcie to break down the real differences between fresh and faux flowers. We dive into how each option works behind the scenes, the true costs involved, seasonal limitations, ordering timelines, and why fake flowers aren’t automatically the cheaper choice couples assume they are. From stem pricing and supply chains to weather stress, Valentine’s Day chaos, hiring vs buying, and what actually goes into creating wedding florals, this conversation pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood parts of wedding planning. Whether you’re deciding between fresh or fake flowers this episode lays it all out. Join The Wedding Vendor Academy: https://weddingswithshelby.com.au/wva-enrollBook Jem Weddings Deluxe Coordination: https://www.jemweddings.com.au/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingsunfiltered_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Be our next guest: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/p2yfwj1RC7MdEraxuiTRShare your story: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/Qu8nKxCGuFNOP2EOTBZj
In this episode, we sit down with Bec from Sprinkles 2 Crumbs and Belle A Fleur, who shares what it’s truly like to experience the wedding industry from both sides as a long-time vendor and a recent bride. We talk about secret elopements, planning a wedding in a short timeframe, choosing vendors when you know the industry, and the unexpected pressure that comes with being a wedding professional on your own day. From surprise price jumps and venue restrictions to nerves, timelines, communication, and the moment it all becomes real, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what couples are actually feeling. It’s an honest look at expectations versus reality, why communication matters more than perfection, and why having someone in your corner on the day can change everything. Join The Wedding Vendor Academy: https://weddingswithshelby.com.au/wva-enrollBook Jem Weddings Deluxe Coordination: https://www.jemweddings.com.au/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingsunfiltered_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Be our next guest: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/p2yfwj1RC7MdEraxuiTRShare your story: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/Qu8nKxCGuFNOP2EOTBZj
If you’re planning a wedding and already feel overwhelmed by venues, vendors and timelines this episode might change how you think about the entire experience.We’re joined by John, owner of The Decoy, a restored heritage paddle steamer turned all-inclusive wedding venue cruising the Swan River. In this conversation, John shares the story behind The Decoy and why it was created for couples who want a wedding that feels calm, intentional and genuinely enjoyable without spending the day managing people, decisions, or schedules.We explore what it’s really like to get married on the water, including:How an all-inclusive wedding allows you to be fully present on the dayWhat a wedding aboard The Decoy feels like from ceremony through sunsetWhy water, movement, and scenery create noticeably more relaxed couplesPartnering with Perth’s most trusted wedding vendors to remove stress and decision fatigueThis episode is for engaged couples who want a wedding experience that feels calm, seamless and all-inclusive, so they can focus on being present rather than coordinating the day. Join The Wedding Vendor Academy: https://weddingswithshelby.com.au/wva-enrollBook Jem Weddings Deluxe Coordination: https://www.jemweddings.com.au/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingsunfiltered_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Be our next guest: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/p2yfwj1RC7MdEraxuiTRShare your story: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/Qu8nKxCGuFNOP2EOTBZj
In this episode, we sit down for an unfiltered catch-up on what the wedding season has really looked like behind the scenes. From finishing a stacked run of weddings to navigating burnout, mistakes on timelines, late vendors, poor communication, and awkward on-the-day chaos, we talk honestly about what vendors deal with that couples never see. We unpack the importance of teamwork, owning mistakes early, respecting each other’s roles, and how one small misstep can have a massive ripple effect on a wedding day. This is a real, no-BS conversation about wedding logistics, professionalism, and surviving the busiest part of the season when life is well and truly lifing. Join The Wedding Vendor Academy: https://weddingswithshelby.com.au/wva-enrollBook Jem Weddings Deluxe Coordination: https://www.jemweddings.com.au/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingsunfiltered_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Be our next guest: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/p2yfwj1RC7MdEraxuiTRShare your story: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/Qu8nKxCGuFNOP2EOTBZj
In this brutally honest episode of Weddings Unfiltered, we dive into the messy, awkward, and often misunderstood world of wedding deposits. From last-minute cancellations to “change of mind” dramas and emotional pressure plays, we spill what really happens behind the scenes when couples cancel and vendors lose thousands.We unpack why deposits are non-refundable, what vendors actually do before your wedding day, how contracts protect small businesses, and why guilt shouldn’t be part of running a sustainable wedding business. Plus we talk about payment plans, tightened T&C, and the real impact of social media backlash. Join The Wedding Vendor Academy: https://weddingswithshelby.com.au/wva-enrollBook Jem Weddings Deluxe Coordination: https://www.jemweddings.com.au/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingsunfiltered_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Be our next guest: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/p2yfwj1RC7MdEraxuiTRShare your story: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/Qu8nKxCGuFNOP2EOTBZj
A bridesmaid hijacks a wedding dress appointment with her own engagement… then asks the bride to be her MOH on the podium. A venue double-books a couple and offers a “solution” that belongs in jail: a split-day wedding or rescheduling to 2027. Plus: a photographer walks out mid-reception and delivers zero photos, a celebrant wasn’t legally registered, and a MIL books her engagement party the night before the wedding so we’re giving unfiltered advice on boundaries, refunds and what to do next. Join The Wedding Vendor Academy: https://weddingswithshelby.com.au/wva-enrollBook Jem Weddings Deluxe Coordination: https://www.jemweddings.com.au/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingsunfiltered_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Be our next guest: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/p2yfwj1RC7MdEraxuiTRShare your story: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/Qu8nKxCGuFNOP2EOTBZj
Ever wonder why so many couples barely remember their own wedding day? Here’s the truth: they spent it doing everyone else’s jobs.In this episode, we dive into the most common wedding-day mistakes, from couples who can’t stop helping to vendors becoming last-minute coordinators, zero timelines, forgotten MCs, and DIY plans gone sideways.More importantly, we share exactly how to avoid the stress including what to plan ahead, what to hand over, what not to obsess about, and how to keep your day running smoothly (even without a coordinator).If you want a calm, fun, fully present wedding day, this episode is a must-listen. Perfect for DIY couples and anyone who wants a stress-free celebration they can actually remember. Join The Wedding Vendor Academy: https://weddingswithshelby.com.au/wva-enrollBook Jem Weddings Deluxe Coordination: https://www.jemweddings.com.au/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingsunfiltered_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Be our next guest: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/p2yfwj1RC7MdEraxuiTRShare your story: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/Qu8nKxCGuFNOP2EOTBZj
In this special launch episode, Shelby brings on Russell from Connected Co and Gem from Genesis Films to announce something that they’ve been cooking up behind the scenes: The 48 Hour Wedding, a full photo, video, and content experience, all captured and delivered within 48 hours.We dive into:✨ How this idea was born at Georgia & Andrew’s iconic wedding✨ The behind-the-scenes story of how the team came together✨ Why this package is designed for couples who see their wedding as art✨ What it actually takes to create editorial photography + cinematic films in 48 hours✨ The values of the couple this package is perfect for✨ How we built a team to make this timeline possible without sacrificing quality✨ And… the huge announcement:We’re giving away the first-ever 48 Hour Wedding package for free!Yes, full photo, video, and content. Delivered in 48 hours. Anywhere in the world!If you're listening on release day, the giveaway is live right now. Join The Wedding Vendor Academy: https://weddingswithshelby.com.au/wva-enrollBook Jem Weddings Deluxe Coordination: https://www.jemweddings.com.au/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingsunfiltered_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Be our next guest: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/p2yfwj1RC7MdEraxuiTRShare your story: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/Qu8nKxCGuFNOP2EOTBZj
This episode is your reminder that the little details matter way more than you think especially when it comes to keeping guests comfy, happy and actually staying past 10pm.We’re sitting down with Alysha from Perth Furniture Hire, the founder of Perth Furniture Hire who went from creating furniture for her own wedding to building a full-blown hire empire and she hasn’t had a quiet weekend since! We dive into:How much furniture you really need for a cocktail weddingWhy your guest mix changes your seating ratio (yep, Nana needs a seat)The “65% rule” and why 40% setups are begging for disasterComfort vs. budget vs. aesthetics and how to get the balance rightIf you want the real talk on furniture hire, guest comfort and creating a wedding that actually flows, this episode is for YOU.Join The Wedding Vendor Academy: https://weddingswithshelby.com.au/wva-enrollBook Jem Weddings Deluxe Coordination: https://www.jemweddings.com.au/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingsunfiltered_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Be our next guest: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/p2yfwj1RC7MdEraxuiTRShare your story: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/Qu8nKxCGuFNOP2EOTBZj
This episode is your permission slip to slow down, reconnect with your why and bring the WOW back to your business.
This week, we recap our wildest weekend yet FIVE weddings and a wedding expo 😅 we dive into a game-changing process created by our very own Lisa:
👉 Start With Your Why, Finish With WOW.
It’s a powerful, feel-good, interactive workshop to help you:
✨ Reignite your passion
💭 Reconnect with your purpose
🎯 Set aligned goals (that actually matter)
💡 Navigate burnout & find balance
🙌 Feel inspired AF in your business or wedding planning journey
Whether you’re a wedding vendor or an engaged couple planning your big day this one’s for YOU.
Let’s talk numbers and the real reason behind them. 💸 In this deep dive episode of Weddings Unfiltered, we’re pulling apart vendor pricing (again!) after our viral quote breakdown, wedding vendors were sliding into our DMs with the best commentary, insight and a few spicy takes.
Shelby, Lisa, and Kristy are back with the raw truth about what actually goes into that dreamy wedding quote from time, tools, talent and taxes to emotional labor and behind-the-scenes chaos. We’re reading real vendor comments, sharing pricing examples and unpacking the why behind the numbers. This episode is part empowering pep talk, part reality check and full-on wedding biz wisdom.
Whether you’re an engaged couple wondering how vendors create their quotes or a vendor who needs a reality check about their prices, this ones for you.
If you’re a wedding vendor and you’ve been sleeping on your personal brand... consider this your wake-up call.
In today’s social media world, especially with Gen Z couples planning their weddings on TikTok and Instagram, your vibe, voice and values matter more than your logo or your font.
This episode is all about:
• How one of Shelby’s coaching clients landed 15 leads from a personal-brand TikTok series (yep, just by being herself)
• The shift we’re seeing in how couples choose their vendors and what they’re really looking for
• Why your brand is more than aesthetics it’s how people feel when they see your content
• Shelby’s current journey with her personal brand, where she’s heading and what she’s doing in real time
If you’re ready to stand out, connect with your dream couples and grow your wedding business just by showing up as YOU this one’s a must-listen.
Are big weddings on their way out? This week, we’re unpacking the rise of micro weddings and elopements and what it really means to go small, intentional, and totally ‘you’.
We’re joined by Kristy from Wed With Whitt an award-winning celebrant, MC and certified legend with over 130 weddings under her (very stylish) belt. Together, we spill the tea on:
💍 The growing trend of elopements & intimate weddings
💸 Budgeting truth bombs (and where couples are splurging vs. saving)
🎤 Why big doesn’t always mean better when it comes to saying “I do”
Whether you're a couple planning your dream day, a vendor watching the shift, or just here for the Shiraz and storytelling, this episode brings heart, humour and a hell of a lot of honesty to the wedding chat.
Planning your wedding without a planner or coordinator? Deep breaths you’re not alone.
In this episode of Weddings Unfiltered, wedding planners Jess & Lisa (with 10+ years in the biz) are handing you the ultimate month-by-month breakdown of what to do from 12 months out to your big day.
We’re talking timelines, must-do tasks, what you can skip (and still have a gorgeous wedding) and the biggest mistakes we see couples make when planning solo.
Inside this episode:
💍 What to book first (and what can wait)
📆 The exact timeline from 12 months to wedding day
🧘♀️ How to avoid last-minute chaos
🤯 What most couples forget until it’s too late
Save this episode and come back each month to stay on track!
What wedding tradition gives us the ick? What would we do if we quit the industry tomorrow? And which vendor red flag makes us run for the hills?
This Q&A episode is chaotic, spicy and completely unfiltered with Lisa grilling Shelby and Jess on everything from their least fav wedding trends to their secret dream careers. No notes, no fluff, just real talk and bigger opinions.
Hit play for some behind-the-scenes wedding tea, off-the-cuff banter and answers you didn’t know you needed.
This week on Weddings Unfiltered, we’re going behind the lens with Sally from Fox & Wildling Photography, the insanely talented wedding photographer known for her moody edits, romantic vibes, and ability to capture those extra special moments.
In this episode, Sally shares how she built a photography business that actually reflects her style, the realities of a wedding day, and what it really takes to stand out in the wedding industry.
Wedding traditions make no sense and this episode proves it.
From smelly brides to blue balls and bouquets masking B.O, we’re digging into the bizarre origins of the rituals we still celebrate today.
Turns out, the wedding industry’s been unhinged since day one.
In this episode of Weddings Unfiltered, we’re diving into the true cost of hiring a wedding content creator especially for destination weddings. From travel and time to editing, admin, and client experience, we break down the real work that happens behind the scenes (and why it’s worth every cent).
Whether you're a vendor wondering if you're undercharging or a couple trying to understand that invoice, this episode is your no-BS guide to wedding pricing in 2025.
🎧 Inside this ep:
• What content creators actually do
• The real breakdown behind the $5K
• Destination wedding costs that add up fast
• Why pricing confidence matters more than ever
• How to communicate your value without flinching
This one’s honest, unfiltered and packed with perspective
What happens when one really bad wedding makes you question everything like, why am I even doing this? It’s so easy to spiral and focus on the negatives as a vendor, especially when the burnout hits hard. In this raw and honest episode, we’re talking about what Jess is going through right now, what it looks like to fall out of love with weddings and how to falling back in love with them again.























