In this episode of the Wedding Day Podcast, Sonia Babich and Dan Riggs interview Tyler and Kendrick from Two Birds Event Group in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They discuss venues, DJs, and the importance of the MC role at weddings. Two Birds Event Group offers multiple venues, including the Ivy House, Filament, and the Starling. They also provide DJ and planning services. The hosts and guests emphasize the importance of communication, flexibility, and backup plans in the wedding planning process. They also discuss the benefits of off-season weddings and the role of wedding professionals in creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for couples and their guests.Keywordswedding, venues, DJs, MC, planning, communication, flexibility, backup plans, off-season weddings, wedding professionalsTakeawaysTwo Birds Event Group offers multiple venues, DJ services, and planning services.Communication and flexibility are key in the wedding planning process.Backup plans are important to ensure a smooth and enjoyable wedding day.Off-season weddings can offer unique benefits and experiences.Wedding professionals play a crucial role in creating a memorable and enjoyable wedding experience.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Two Birds Event Group10:25 Expanding the Venue Collection25:40 The Role of Wedding Venues in Ensuring Safety and Fun28:32 Choosing the Perfect Wedding VenueSupport the Show.

In this episode of the Wedding Day Podcast, Sonja Babich and Dan Riggs interview Ryann Lindsey of Ryann Lindsey Photography. They discuss the importance of wedding photography and the value of capturing moments on the wedding day. They also talk about the benefits of doing a first look and the role of the photographer in scouting the wedding venue. Ryann shares her journey from being a nurse to becoming a photographer and emphasizes the emotional significance of wedding photos. The episode provides insights into the process of selecting a photographer and the importance of trust and communication between the couple, planner, and photographer. The conversation explores the use of film photography and content creation in the wedding industry. Ryann discusses the advantages and challenges of shooting film, including the need for extra personnel and the additional time and cost involved. They also touch on the resurgence of disposable cameras and the importance of educating clients about the role of content creators. The conversation delves into the differences between content creation and professional photography and videography, emphasizing the value of polished, curated wedding videos and photos as heirlooms. Ryann also highlights the importance of trust and creating a positive experience for couples on their wedding day.TakeawaysWedding photography is not just about capturing beautiful images, but also about preserving memories and creating heirloom items.Doing a first look allows couples to have alone time and join their cocktail hour, while still getting beautiful sunset photos.When selecting a photographer, it's important to trust the planner's experience and find someone who aligns with your vision and personality.Photographers should scout the wedding venue to identify the best locations for photos and consider factors like lighting and accessibility.Communication and collaboration between the couple, planner, and photographer are key to ensuring a smooth and successful wedding day. Shooting film in weddings requires extra personnel and additional time and cost.Educating clients about the role of content creators is important.Professional wedding videos and photos serve as heirlooms and should be polished and curated.Trust is crucial in creating a positive experience for couples on their wedding day.Chapters00:00 Introduction06:47 The Benefits of Doing a First Look13:13 Selecting a Photographer: Trust and Communication29:09 The Pressure to Provide Sneak Peeks39:04 The Value of Professional Wedding VideosMore from Sonja Babich & Dan Riggs:Iron Diamond Media: https://www.irondiamondmedia.comSummit Hill Studios: https://summithillstudios.comSupport the Show.

In this episode, Sonja Babich and Dan Riggs discuss the process of finding the perfect wedding dress with Christina Wegner from White Dress Bridal Boutique. They emphasize the importance of managing expectations and being open to different styles. They also highlight the significance of the wedding day and the power of weddings to connect people. The conversation touches on the value of investing in wedding details and the role of videography in capturing special moments. They conclude by discussing the timeline of dress shopping and the experience of attending Fashion Week to select dresses. In this episode, Christina discusses the process of selecting wedding dresses for her boutique. She explains how she attends market events to view new collections and how boutiques choose which dresses to stock. Christina also shares her preference for decisive buying and the importance of knowing the market trends. She highlights the availability of off-the-rack options and the growing popularity of second look dresses. Christina emphasizes the role of customization and the different approaches designers take. She also discusses the importance of having a knowledgeable stylist and the significance of red flags when trying on dresses. Christina provides tips for brides on how to prepare for the fitting room and shares insights on pricing and payment options. She also touches on the importance of shoes and alterations, as well as the number of store visits brides typically make. Finally, Christina encourages brides to celebrate their unique love stories and embrace their own wedding planning journey.TakeawaysManage expectations and be open to different dress styles when searching for the perfect wedding dress.The wedding day is a significant and memorable event that should be cherished.Invest in wedding details and consider the importance of videography in capturing special moments.The process of finding a wedding dress can be emotional, and it's important to have supportive family and friends. Attending market events is crucial for boutique owners to view new collections and select dresses for their stores.Brides are leaning towards more colorful dresses and floral designs for the upcoming wedding season.Off-the-rack options and second look dresses are popular choices for brides who want immediate availability or a different style for the reception.Different designers have varying approaches to customization, and it's important for brides to have an open mind and communicate their preferences.Having a knowledgeable stylist is essential for a successful dress shopping experience, and red flags to watch out for include disorganization and lack of expertise.Brides should come prepared for the fitting room with nude undergarments and an open mind.Wedding dress prices can range from $1,200 to $8,000, and payment options vary.Shoes and alterations play a significant role in completing the bridal look.Most brides find their dress within one to three store visits, but it's important to trust the process and not feel pressured to try on too many dresses.While venue considerations are important, ultimately, the bride's personal style and preferences should guide the dress selection process.Every bride's journey is unique, and it's important to celebrate and embrace individual love stories throughout the wedding planning process.More from Sonja Babich & Dan Riggs:Iron Diamond Media: https://www.irondiamondmedia.com/Summit Hill Studios: https://summithillstudios.com/Support the showSupport the Show.

SummaryNatalia Kovchan, the founder of La Beige Beauty, shares her journey of starting her own beauty business and the importance of education and training in the industry. She emphasizes the need for brides to book hair and makeup services well in advance and provides tips for creating a timeline for the wedding day. Natalia also discusses the importance of communication with the bridal party and the different options for lashes. She advises brides to have a trial run and to be mindful of their partner's preferences when choosing their wedding day look.TakeawaysBooking hair and makeup services should be done well in advance, ideally 9 to 12 months before the wedding.Communication with the bridal party is crucial to ensure everyone is prepared and ready for the wedding day.Individual lashes are recommended for a lightweight and customizable look.Avoid trying new skincare or beauty treatments close to the wedding day to prevent any adverse reactions.Consider your partner's preferences when choosing your wedding day look, but ultimately, it's important to feel comfortable and confident in your own skin.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background00:30 Starting La Bay's Beauty01:00 Meeting and Moving to Arizona01:28 Inspiration for Makeup03:00 Starting La Beige Beauty from Scratch04:20 Building a Professional Team05:48 Support from Natalia's Husband06:17 Importance of Education and Training07:45 Booking and Timeline for Wedding Services09:13 Experience Level for Beauty Team10:08 Booking Hair and Makeup Services11:03 Importance of Booking in Advance12:30 Adjusting the Timeline and Services13:52 Creating a Timeline for Hair and Makeup15:05 Time Required per Person18:15 Paying for Beauty Services19:39 Expectations for Bridal Party20:38 Including Gratuity in the Invoice22:27 How to Show Up for Hair and Makeup23:51 Describing the Desired Look25:14 Importance of a Trial Run26:22 Choosing Attire for Getting Ready27:12 Describing the Desired Makeup Look28:36 Partner's Opinion on Wedding Day Look29:33 Paying Attention to Partner's Preferences30:33 Lashes: Strip, Individual, or Extensions32:26 Choosing Attire for Getting Ready33:49 Lashes: Strip, Individual, or Extensions36:58 Choosing Individual Lashes38:46 Avoiding Allergies and Comfort with Lashes41:56 Avoiding Inner Corners Popping OutMore from Sonja Babich & Dan Riggs:Iron Diamond Media: https://www.irondiamondmedia.com/Summit Hill Studios: https://summithillstudios.com/Support the Show.

This week we are in the heart of historic Milwaukee Wisconsin, Home of Wisconsin Bride magazine, talking to Wedding planners Jaffee & Sara from Graceful Events.  Today we will learn why hiring a wedding planner is one of the best gifts that you can give yourself, the importance of creating YOU time buffers in your wedding day timeline and some savvy ways to fit professional wedding planning into your budget.SummaryIn this episode, Sonia Babich and Dan Riggs interview Jaffee and Sara from Graceful Events, a wedding planning company. They discuss the importance of hiring a wedding planner, the background and story of Graceful Events, and the challenges and fulfillment of wedding planning. They also talk about the importance of being present on the wedding day, creating downtime for the couple, and the role of the bride and groom in setting the energy of the event. They share examples from their own experiences, including a gala at the Yerkes Observatory. Overall, the episode emphasizes the value of a wedding planner in creating a perfect wedding day. In this conversation, the importance of having a wedding planner is emphasized, as they can handle the stress and coordination of the wedding day, allowing the couple to relax and enjoy their special day. Different price points for wedding planning services are discussed, ensuring that every couple can find a package that suits their budget. The importance of protecting the energy of the bridal couple is highlighted, with suggestions for taking breaks and preserving their energy throughout the day. The process of starting the wedding planning process is explored, including getting to know the couple and their preferences. The significance of creating a realistic budget and using mood boards for design inspiration is also discussed. The conversation concludes with a discussion on selecting wedding professionals, including caterers, photographers, and transportation services.TakeawaysHiring a wedding planner is one of the best gifts you can give yourself to enjoy the planning process and be present on your wedding day.Wedding planning can be stressful and time-consuming, and a wedding planner can help alleviate that stress and ensure everything runs smoothly.Being present on the wedding day is important, and planners can create downtime for the couple to enjoy the moment and take in the details.The bride and groom play a crucial role in setting the energy of the event, and their presence and actions can influence the behavior of guests. Having a wedding planner can alleviate stress and ensure a seamless wedding day.There are different price points for wedding planning services, allowing couples to find a package that fits their budget.Taking breaks and preserving energy throughout the day is important for the bridal couple.Starting the wedding planning process involves getting to know the couple and their preferences.Creating a realistic budget and using mood boards can help with the design process.Selecting wedding professionals, such as caterers, photographers, and transportation services, should be done early in the planning process.Chapters00:00 Introduction00:30 The Importance of Hiring a Wedding Planner05:00 Meeting Sarah and Growing the Team06:57 Sarah's Background and Joining Graceful Events08:12 The Fulfillment of Wedding Planning09:06 The Challenges of Wedding Planning11:06 The Importance of Being Present on the Wedding Day13:02 Creating Downtime for the Couple14:19 The Room Reveal and Pinterest Boards15:45 Private Meal for the Couple16:39 The Bride and Groom Setting the Energy19:22 Grace Under Pressure: The Yerkes Observatory Gala23:02 The Importance of Booking a Wedding Planner24:26 The ImportanSupport the Show.

This week we are in Seattle, Washington learning about the importance of prioritizing quality transportation for your wedding day.  We dig in with Rod Childress from Butler Transportation on all the different types of vehicles you can utilize, how to make Grandma and Grandpa more comfortable on date night (your big day!).  Some of the transportation pitfalls to be aware of and much more!SummaryIn this episode, Rod Childress, the director of Butler Transportation, discusses the different types of vehicles available for wedding transportation and the importance of booking transportation early. He emphasizes the need to consider parking and safety concerns when choosing a venue and highlights the special touches and details that Butler Transportation offers to enhance the client experience. Rod also provides tips for managing timelines, dealing with motion sickness, and ensuring the comfort and safety of elderly guests. He concludes by discussing the importance of tipping the driver and setting expectations for the transportation service.TakeawaysBook transportation early to secure the desired vehicles and ensure a smooth experience.Consider parking and safety when choosing a wedding venue, especially for remote or scenic locations.Pay attention to the comfort and convenience of bridal parties, especially when it comes to getting in and out of vehicles.Add special touches and details to enhance the transportation experience, such as matching lighting to the wedding colors.Plan for the transportation needs of elderly guests and provide options for their comfort and convenience.Chapters00:00 Introduction00:29 Types of Vehicles for Wedding Transportation03:16 Comfortable Ride for Bridal Parties04:08 Special Touches and Details05:36 Importance of Booking Transportation Early06:33 Considerations for Venue Selection07:27 Parking and Safety Concerns08:48 Creating a Memorable Experience09:18 Managing Timelines and Pitfalls10:42 Transportation for Elderly Guests11:34 First Look and Styling Transportation12:28 Budgeting for Transportation13:55 Timing and Hiding Before the Wedding14:51 Displaying Shuttle Schedules15:42 Transportation for Large Guest Counts17:59 Dealing with Motion Sickness19:50 Getaway Cars and Trendy Options22:12 Tipping the Driver23:07 Booking Transportation after Choosing the Venue25:22 Taking Care of Guests with Special Needs26:25 Providing Car Seats for Children28:21 Handling Sick Passengers32:50 Tipping the Driver More from Sonja Babich & Dan Riggs:Iron Diamond Media: https://www.irondiamondmedia.com/Summit Hill Studios: https://summithillstudios.com/Support the Show.

This week we are in sunny Scottsdale Arizona joined by Anna Ly-Luu, Marketing Director of W Scottsdale. Anna's here to fill your cup with wedding hotel and venue secrets, tips on finding your perfect venue, expert insight on room blocks and wedding accommodations, and when you should ideally book your dream wedding venue.SummaryIn this episode, Anna, the marketing director of W Scottsdale, shares wedding hotel and venue secrets. She emphasizes the importance of booking the venue and room block as early as possible, especially in high-demand areas like Arizona. Anna also discusses the role of a wedding planner and the difference between a venue coordinator and a wedding planner. She highlights the significance of site tours and the importance of visualizing the space. Anna recommends bringing the parents for the final venue walkthrough and encourages couples to be flexible with their wedding dates to secure their dream venue.TakeawaysBook the venue and room block as early as possible, ideally a year in advanceConsider the role of a wedding planner and the benefits they bring in terms of organization and vendor coordinationSchedule site tours with the venue to visualize the space and ask important questionsBe flexible with wedding dates to secure the dream venueBring the parents for the final venue walkthrough to ensure everyone is on the same pageChapters00:00 Introduction00:58 Wedding hotel and venue secrets01:11 Bringing Pinterest board to life02:10 Marketing manager role03:32 Rehearsal dinners at W Scottsdale04:59 Private buyout and open rehearsal dinners06:00 Wedding parties staying at the hotel07:49 Hotel room block08:36 Attrition in room block09:24 Adding rooms to the block10:18 Estimating room block size11:13 Booking enough rooms in the block11:31 Room block cutoff date12:49 Running out of rooms in the block13:45 Managing multiple events on the same day14:50 Importance of having a wedding planner15:39 Difference between venue coordinator and wedding planner16:46 Meetings with the venue18:10 Pre-planning process19:20 Number of meetings with the venue20:35 Scheduling site tours21:35 Ideal time for site tours22:35 Venue tours and visualizing the space23:52 Booking the venue and hotel26:38 Importance of knowing the lighting in the venue27:56 Booking the venue and room block29:17 Booking the dream venue31:34 Booking the room block33:23 Bride and groom staying at a different hotel35:24 ConclusionMore from Sonja Babich & Dan Riggs:Iron Diamond Media: https://www.irondiamondmedia.com/Summit Hill Studios: https://summithillstudios.com/ @summithillstudios More from Anna:@wscottsdale on Instagram@anna_lyluu on InstagramThank you to today’s sponsors:Linen Effects: https://lineneffects.com/Warpaint International: https://www.warpaintinternational.com/Continental Diamond: https://www.continentaldiamond.com/Today’s episode is powered by:Ryann Lindsey Photography https://ryannlindseyphotography.com/Hazel Grove Rentals https://www.hazelgroverentals.com/Florals by Kendra https://floralsbykendra.com/Amour de Sucre https://amourdesucre.com/Le Briege Beauty https://lebeigebeauty.com/Support the Show.

In this episode, Sonia Babich and Dan Riggs interview Andrew Vick, a wedding photographer with extensive experience. They discuss the importance of building a relationship with your wedding photographer and how it can lead to lasting memories. Andrew shares his travel experiences and highlights the value of capturing unique moments in different locations. They also discuss the role of a second photographer and the importance of engagement photos. Finally, they touch on the importance of understanding client expectations and the impact of true color in wedding photography. In this conversation, Andrew Vick discusses various aspects of wedding photography, including the importance of photography style, the role of editors and support teams, backup photographers and support systems, consistency in photography style, collaboration and specialization in photography, delivering on time and building a brand, the power of curiosity in conversation, the importance of building relationships, capturing emotion and moments, the impact of wedding photography, the power of touch in photography, creating meaningful moments in photography, the art of asking questions, creating experiences in conversations, the first look moment, planning the wedding day timeline, the importance of being together on the wedding day, considering lighting and timing, catering to the groom and culinary experiences, making decisions as a couple, the power of who cares more, building a healthy relationship, and additional resources for wedding planning.TakeawaysBuilding a relationship with your wedding photographer can lead to lasting memories and a more personalized experience.Capturing unique moments in different locations can create unforgettable wedding photos.Engagement photos are important for understanding how you want to be captured on your wedding day.Understanding client expectations and delivering true color in wedding photography is crucial. The style and approach to taking great photos are more important than the edit or preset used.Having a support system, including backup photographers, editors, and a team, is important for a smooth wedding day experience.Collaboration and specialization within a photography team can lead to consistent and high-quality work.Building relationships and creating meaningful moments through photography can have a lasting impact on couples.Effective communication, curiosity, and asking meaningful questions can enhance conversations and relationships.Considering factors such as lighting, timing, and the wedding day timeline is crucial for capturing the best photos.Making decisions as a couple and understanding each other's priorities can lead to a successful wedding planning journey.Building a healthy relationship requires communication, respect, and compromise.Chapters00:00 Introduction00:59 Working with a Wedding Photographer03:19 First Wedding and Travel Experiences07:01 Creating Lasting Memories09:16 Importance of Building a Relationship10:11 The Role of a Second Photographer11:10 The Value of Engagement Photos13:07 Creating Personalized Experiences18:31 Understanding Client Expectations21:01 The Importance of True Color22:53 The Importance of Photography Style23:41 The Role of Editors and Support Teams24:38 Backup Photographers and Support Systems25:34 Consistency in Photography Style26:30 Collaboration and Specialization in Photography27:27 Delivering on Time and Building a Brand27:57 The Power of Curiosity in Conversation28:22 The Importance of Building Relationships28:50 Capturing Emotion and Moments29:44 The Impact of Wedding Photography30:12 The Power of Touch in Photography31:34 Creating Meaningful Moments in PhotographySupport the Show.