White Dress Optional

Welcome back, everyone! The holidays take on a whole new vibe once you’re married, and Mel & Malea are here to help you navigate this exciting (and sometimes tricky) shift. In this episode, they explore how being married transforms the way you approach family gatherings, balance traditions, and tackle holiday travel plans. Through personal stories, practical advice on setting boundaries, and communication tips, they share everything you need to make your first holiday season as a couple stress-free and meaningful. Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Welcome to an exciting episode of White Dress Optional! Our team hit the floor at a wedding expo to chat with real engaged couples about their wedding planning experiences. Hear about the biggest surprises they’ve faced, their top tips for newly engaged couples, what they’re hoping to accomplish at the expo, and whether they’d recommend it to others on the same journey. Whether you’re just starting to plan or deep in details, this episode is filled with relatable perspectives and valuable takeaways to guide you along the way. Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Get excited! Real bride Anna Davidson returns for Part 2 of our wedding journey series, joined by her fiancé John Will Graham! Together with hosts Mel & Malea, they dive into the details they chose to prioritize, choosing an officiant they trust to capture the heart of their day, why John Will believes grooms should play an active role in planning, and more. With practical advice for couples at every planning stage, this episode offers a fun, insightful, and down-to-earth discussion with a real couple navigating the wedding process just like you.Connect with Anna at https://www.homziedesigns.com/work-with-us or on Instagram! Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

The episode you all have been waiting for is HERE! This week, Mel & Malea are answering all the burning wedding questions brides & couples have submitted to us. Is $1200 a realistic budget when dress shopping? What’s the deal with bridal sizing and etiquette regarding tipping your stylist? They go through the pros & cons of first looks, share advice about managing others expectations about upholding traditions, and so much more. If you’re in the midst of wedding planning and seeking some guidance, this episode is a must-listen! Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Happy Wednesday, everyone! This week, Mel & Malea are taking you behind the scenes of wedding dressmaking with a special episode about their recent trip to China. We’re uncovering it all — from how a simple sketch transforms into ‘the’ dress you fall in love with at the boutique, to the ethical, humane practices that set these manufacturers apart from fast fashion imitators. Plus, we’re sharing how Brilliant Bridal can keep high-quality gowns affordable without compromising on excellence. These partnerships mean so much to us, and we’re thrilled to take you along on this journey. If you’ve ever wondered about the magic behind your wedding gown, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Welcome back, everyone! Even after the big day, there are still a few loose ends to tie up! Mel & Malea share 5 important post-wedding tasks to remember, from writing ‘thank you’ notes (free customizable templates here!) to cleaning your dress, starting the name change process, and more. If you're a couple looking to stay on top of things after the wedding, this episode is for you!Ultimate Guide to Changing Your Name  Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

This week, Mel & Malea decode the most common wedding dress codes — white tie, black tie, formal, cocktail, and casual. Whether you're setting the dress code for your big day or navigating one as a guest, we've got you covered! Plus, we’ll break down which colors and styles to avoid so the bride stays the star of the show. Tune in for all the wedding fashion tips you need, and don’t forget to share this episode with your wedding party! Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Welcome back, everyone! This week, Mel & Malea are diving into all the wedding dress alteration secrets you didn’t know you needed with bridal seamstress, Nadine Bozeman of Sweet Francis Sewing Co.! They break down why every wedding gown, whether off-the-rack or custom-ordered, needs alterations. You’ll also get expert tips on choosing the best bridal tailor, planning for body changes, and even tipping etiquette. And to make your life even easier, make sure to download our digital alterations checklist below to help guide you through the process step by step!FREE Alterations ChecklistConnect with Nadine at https://www.sweetfrancissewingco.com/ or on Instagram at @sweetfrancissewingco! Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Happy Wednesday! Get ready to laugh, learn, and cringe as Mel & Malea dive into the "Yeah…No’s" of wedding speeches! From awkward open mic moments to cringeworthy ex shoutouts, they share real-life stories and practical advice to ensure your wedding toasts are a hit. Whether you're a bride, groom, or speech-giver, this episode will help you prevent those all too common speech disasters. Tune in for tips that will guarantee your wedding toasts are memorable for all the right reasons! Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Anna Davidson of Homzie Designs is back, but this time as a bride-to-be! Mel & Malea kick off a new series following Anna's journey from fiancée to wife, starting with her sweet proposal story and her experiences with wedding dress shopping. Anna also opens up about the pressures and surprises she’s faced early in the planning process, from balancing her vision with expectations to navigating those initial wedding decisions. Tune in to hear a real bride’s perspective on what it’s like to plan a wedding today!Connect with Anna at https://www.homziedesigns.com/work-with-us or on Instagram! Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Happy Wednesday! Join us as we welcome back Tanya Pushkine, “The Vow Whisperer,” to explore how couples can creatively and meaningfully incorporate their heritages into their big day in a way that honors both cultures and resonates with guests. We discuss practical tips for putting together a memorable ceremony and navigating any challenges that may arise. If you’re planning a multicultural wedding, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! Connect with Tanya at https://thevowwhisperer.com/ or on Instagram at @thevowwhisperer!  Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

WE’RE BACK! Welcome to Season 2 — we’re so glad you’re here. This week, Mel & Malea discuss the impact of inflation on the wedding world. They’ll answer why weddings are costing more, whether social media is tricking you into overspending, and how to decide where to splurge and where to save when planning your wedding budget. Oh, and they reveal the average cost per guest—that number alone might just leave you speechless. Tune in for their top tips on prioritizing your wedding budget so you can still have the wedding of your dreams! Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Welcome to White Dress Optional! This week, we are wrapping up season 1 with a real bride Q&A. Mel + Malea tackle ALL the burning questions you've asked us on Instagram; covering everything from wedding etiquette to dress alterations to the most overlooked aspects of wedding planning & more. All the support you've shown this season means the world to us & we are so excited for all the fun plans we have for season 2 - see you soon!Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Happy Wednesday! On this episode of White Dress Optional, Mel + Malea cover the importance of having a solid wedding registry & spill all their top, tried and true must-haves and services to include. Hear about why they love these items and check out the show notes for all the links to help you get the ball rolling on putting together the perfect wedding registry - there's something for every couple!Greater Goods Electric KettleEmber Temperature Control MugMercer Knife SetEpicurean Cutting BoardFront Gate Bath SheetsUtopia Bath SheetsPillowflex Pillow InsertsSnorze Cloud ComforterSpaceAid Bed Sheet OrganizerSolo Stove Streamline Barware CollectionWavelength Party GameFriday Pickleball PaddlesBedsure Dog BedShark True Pet VacuumThank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Welcome to White Dress Optional! Have you been dreaming of a wedding that's as eco-conscious as it is breathtaking? This episode offers practical advice for couples looking for ways to minimize their environmental footprint on their big day. Tune in now & join Mel + Malea as they share all the eco-friendly wedding ideas and inspiration!Resources: Mindfully WedGreenvelope Paperless PostWedding Footprint CalculatorThank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Happy Wednesday, listeners! This week, we're tackling one of the hottest debates circulating the wedding world: kids at weddings... Do you invite them? Do you not? If you're feeling stuck with this decision - don't worry! In this episode, Mel + Malea help navigate the nuances of this topic by breaking down both sides of the argument, sharing their own stories, and offering practical ideas to include the little ones, so you can decide what's right for your special day!Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Welcome to White Dress Optional! This week’s episode has ALL the tips + tools you & your partner need to help you design your dream home together. Anna Davidson, owner of Homzie Designs, is here to reveal game-changing advice + resources for couples in the process of creating a harmonious living space, making this journey easier & more enjoyable than ever! Mel, Malea & Anna cover a range of topics from blending style preferences and effective communication to navigating budgets & helpful hacks, finding renter-friendly options and more. Tune in now & explore more of Homzie Designs' helpful resources below!Design Style QuizInspiration AuditLTKConnect with Anna online at https://www.homziedesigns.com/work-with-us or on Instagram!Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

This week on White Dress Optional, Mel + Malea share real-life stories of weddings gone wrong! From awkward officiant slip-ups to major etiquette faux pas, they provide a fresh perspective on handling wedding mishaps and offer invaluable advice that will help you dodge disaster on your wedding day. Whether you're a bride-to-be or just love a good story, this episode is sure to entertain and educate - press PLAY now to listen!Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Welcome back to White Dress Optional! We know this week's topic is one that most brides would rather NOT think about. However, in Mel + Malea's 13 years in this bridal business, they've seen it happen and are here to equip you with resources & options to help navigate what to do if your bridal shop closes unexpectedly leaving you in a bind without a wedding dress.Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!

Welcome back, everyone! This week, special guests, Sara + Rod Burgos of Anonymo Studios, join Mel & Malea to discuss the balance between their work & relationship as a married business duo and share the lessons they've learned along the way in growing a successful business and supportive marriage. This is the episode for all dreamers & visionaries who are not only navigating marriage but also a blooming business. Enjoy! Connect with Anonymo Studios at https://anonymo.studio/ or on Instagram  @anonymo.studios Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com. If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!Check out additional resources here!