The Stars Inside: The Wedding Podcast

Today's interview is with the lovely Kate, who is Design Director over at Taylor & Hart - a fabulous company that specialises in bespoke engagement rings and wedding bands. She's seen T&H go from a small start-up to an established pioneer in this field, all while staying true to their love of innovation and the heartfelt, personal touch that they are so proud to put into every single ring they craft. We chat about her history, her favourite designs, ideas for how couples can personalise their rings, the effect of the pandemic, fun proposal anecdotes, replicas from our favourite Netflix shows, and so much more.  She was a joy to speak to and I hope you love the interview!There is a new collection on the horizon so make sure you head over to the Taylor & Hart Instagram profile and website to follow along. If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

Today's interview is with the lovely Katie of Run Away Together, a photographer based in Los Angeles who specialises in intimate weddings and elopements, does some stunning boudoir photography, AND hosts her own podcast too. She has such a great way of capturing emotions and joy, and I'm sure you're going to love her approach to her work! We talk about her passion for travel and her journey into wedding photography, what the experience is like for couples she works with, tips for finding your elopement photographer, and how to fill the day with meaningful moments if you're eloping or having a smaller wedding. We also talk about the joys and challenges of destination weddings in new places. To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her Instagram profile or check out her lovely podcast. If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

Today we're doing something a little bit different – we are going to be giving you a little preview of a brand new Netflix show called "Marriage or Mortgage", premiering on Monday March 10th.  This Nashville-based show follows engaged couples deciding between investing in a house or a wedding, and our guest today is actually the wedding planner who co-hosts the show, the lovely Sarah Miller of Southern Vine & Co. In today's mini episode we talk about what marriage means to her, what it was like to support couples on the show as they navigate this decision, understanding your wedding budget and prioritising the things that mean the most to you, and how to elevate and personalise the wedding experience when on a budget.  To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her Instagram profile, her website, or check out Marriage or Mortgage on Netflix. If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

Today I have the joy of welcoming Heather from Sash & Veil, who designs and creates completely magical, bespoke bridal accessories. Her speciality is veils and capes, which her brides can customise in every way – and I love that she encourages her clients to weave their personality and story into the pieces she makes. We talk about her journey into the world of fashion and bridal, where her inspiration comes from, and her top tips for brides out there currently shopping for their outfit. We explore some ideas on how to personalise bridal accessories in a meaningful way, in particular for brides wanting to pay tribute to a loved one who is no longer with them. For me, this really embodies how brides and grooms can tell their story in a completely unique way and I think it's more important than ever to own, embrace, enjoy that celebration.  To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her Instagram profile, or over on her website. If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

Today I interview Meghan Ely from OFD Consulting, an award-winning publicist, speaker, and educator with over two decades of experience under her belt within the wedding industry. She very kindly puts on her PR and marketing hat to share her expertise about getting featured in blogs and magazines, both from the perspective of wedding suppliers and that of newlywed couples. We talk about what PR means for wedding business owners, and in particular what it means right now, during such challenging times. We dig into her advice for couples who are interested in having their wedding featured online, as well as her tips for wedding pros who want to use publications as a way of getting their work seen and attracting more couples their way. She talks to us about the most common mistakes she sees wedding pros making, and the key things to consider if you're struggling to get your work accepted by your target publications. We also touch on why it's still really important to include online features into the marketing strategy for your business, and how to do this positively and mindfully.  To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her Instagram profile, or over on the websites for OFD Consulting, Wedding Industry Speakers, and Submit My Wedding. If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

Today I interview Samie, co-founder of Bustld, which is a US-based online platform which connects wedding vendors to engaged couples. With her experience as a wedding planner and as co-creator of this matching platform, Samie is uniquely placed to talk to us about what she feels is at the heart of a successful relationship between couples and wedding vendors. She also does a lot of work to vet suppliers for her directory, so I really enjoyed asking her about how business owners can work on strengthening their brand and continuing to inspire trust in the couples they serve - and on the other side of that, how couples choose who is trustworthy and reliable. We discuss her top tips for couples currently planning their wedding and booking their dream team, and the lessons we can take away from 2020. We finish off by chatting about virtual weddings, which is something she offers through her Love Stream platform, and ways that these broadcasted wedding days can still feel joyful, personal and momentous for those couples who choose to go down this road. To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her gorgeous Instagram profile, or over on Bustld, LoveStream, and her podcast too. If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

Pinterest has been an incredible tool for me through the years, as a bride-to-be and then as a business owner, and I'm really excited to spend some time today talking through my experiences with you. These tips and anecdotes are all about what has worked for me and for my couples, shared with the aim of inspiring you to get to know this platform and all the wonderful ways it can help you through your journey - whatever that journey is. Whether you're a recently engaged couple looking to unlock your wedding style and find your vendors, or a business owner wanting to elevate your online presence and connect with more lovely couples and clients, I hope this guide will provide you with an exciting starting point. Ultimately, Pinterest is a catalyst for new ideas, for discovering what you love, and for sharing your work - and, if used mindfully and intentionally, the most joyful and positive social media platform there is.If you would like to ask me any questions or connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I interview the fabulous Katie of The Vintage House That Could. Katie is a stylist, florist, and interior design visionary – whose brand and work is all about creating completely unique designs tailored around the couples and clients she supports. We talk about her journey to where she is today, her design process, her experience supporting couples with smaller weddings in 2020, her tips for couples who have postponed and want to keep their styling fresh and meaningful to them. And  some trends she's seeing at the moment. She also runs business consultations so we also touch on some of the personal challenges she's been helping her clients with, and what she thinks the biggest lessons and takeaways from 2020 have been. To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her gorgeous Instagram profile or website.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I interview Salsabil Morrison, photographer of weddings, people, and things – and all-round beautiful person. She is so humble, down to earth, and talented, and I'm so excited to share her interview with you. We talk about the beginnings of her passion for photography, what it was like to start and run a business while starting a family, and how she stays present in both professional and personal spheres, expending energy in a very intentional way. She talks through the journey that she goes on when working with a new engaged couple or client, and how she is able to tell their story in a really authentic way. We also talk about boundaries, about being vigilant with energy and attention, and some of the very important and unexpected life and work lessons she learned during this year. Finally, we touch on how to speak and listen on social media: and the importance of interacting with it with the intention of helping others, and protecting your space. To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her gorgeous Instagram profile, website, or her brand new workshops.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Abigail from M&H Cake Company, a wonderful wedding cake designer. We've been friends and colleagues ever since a serendipitous encounter a few years ago, when both her and I were at the very beginning of our own business journeys. Her style of cakes is contemporary and crisp, with inspiration from botanical motifs and interior design, and I adore her! Together we discuss the importance of diversity in the wedding industry – and in particular what Abigail's experiences have been since launching. To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her gorgeous Instagram profile and website.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Faye Cornhill, a wonderful wedding photographer and highly successful business coach. I'm delighted to chat with her today about her journey into wedding photography, podcasting, mentoring, and how she followed her intuition all the way to becoming the sought-after coach she is today. She touches on the habits that keep her motivated, positive, and mindful – and the recurring challenges that she sees her coaching clients facing. We dig really deep into the power of a positive mindset, and how the NOW is the only thing that matters when it comes to believing in yourself. To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her gorgeous coaching business Instagram profile and website or her wedding photography Instagram profile and website.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

This episode is all about styled shoots: what they are, how they can be helpful for couples planning their wedding, how wedding suppliers can run them in the most mindful and impactful way, and a round-up of tips and etiquette that I've learned over the course of the last three years. They have been the single most important tool for learning and growth for me as a business owner and wedding pro, so I love discussing the benefits and potential of collaborations like these.If you would like to connect with me or ask any questions, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Vaani from Sugar Plum Cakes, a dear friend and immensely talented cake baker. I'm delighted to chat with her today about how her family and culture played a role in her journey into baking, how she developed confidence in her own creative style, the differences between wedding cake types, and some myth busting when it comes to her specialty, which is buttercream cakes. She talks us through some of key lessons she's learned while growing her business, and we also talk about the power of being true to yourself, in life and in business. To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her gorgeous Instagram profile and new website.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Liz from Blue Sky Flowers, a hugely talented and lovely florist based here in London. I'm delighted to chat with her today about her journey into the wedding industry and what she's learned about her style over the decades she's been flowering weddings, advice for new florists starting out, as well as tips for couples looking to create their dream wedding look. She busts myths, explains the behind-the-scenes of her work really insightfully, and speaks from her heart about florals for postponed weddings. To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her gorgeous Instagram profile and website.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing my dear friend and colleague Storme Webster, who is a bridal hair and make-up artist I've had the joy of working with (and travelling with!) a number of times before. She is a calming, humble, joyful presence that I know so many brides are grateful for, and I'm delighted to chat with her today about her story, her business growth, and her advice. To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her gorgeous Instagram profile and website.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Sundari Ferris, a multi-talented artist and storyteller whom I've admired for many years. We discuss the way her business grew in the wedding industry and how it evolved naturally out of it, her approach towards creativity and inspiration, as well as her ethos when it comes to honesty and vulnerability on social media. To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her gorgeous Instagram profile and website.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode I interview real couple Charlie and Dan, a lovely engaged couple who will be having an intimate wedding in Tuscany in summer 2021. This is a particularly special interview for me as I will be joining these guys as their wedding coordinator on the day, which means I've had the joy of getting to know them a little bit already. Today we talk a bit about their wedding planning journey and the plot twists they had along the way, what they learned from modelling for wedding photoshoots, and what their ethos has been when it comes to this intimate celebration they're planning now. We recorded this in June 2020 so they also touch on how it's been for them to navigate wedding planning during the COVID19 pandemic. I loved this interview and really hope it brings you as much joy as it did me!If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Rubana from Crimson Letters, a dear friend, incredibly talented stationery designer, and all-round artist. We discuss the connection and relationships between business owners and clients, and how to tread that boundary between personal and professional. We're really honest about what authenticity means to us and how it played a part in the growth of our businesses. We then finish off by talking about Rubana's advice for anyone out there looking for a designer or stationer to partner with for the brand or wedding. To find out more about her and her work, do head over to her gorgeous Instagram profile and website.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

For this very special episode, I'm joined by my wonderful husband James to reminisce about our proposal - how ten years together and five years planning went into THE most epic treasure hunt of all time! As we come up to our three year wedding anniversary, we reflect on how every proposal and every wedding is completely unique and perfect for the love story it tells. PLUS – cute bloopers at the end! If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed listening in, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Chenai, owner of ByChenai Events – a fabulous wedding planner colleague of mine and dear friend. Together, we discuss her journey into the world of weddings, the process of getting to know a couple at the beginning of their planning journey, myths about working with a wedding planner, why being real about budgets is so important, and how we match couples to their dream team of vendors. We also explore the behind-the-scenes of our role as champions for both suppliers and couples, which is one we both take very much to heart.To find out more about her, head over to her gorgeous Instagram profile and website.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Louise Ord, owner of Loulabel Floral Design – a creative floristry and wellness brand that I adore. Together, we discuss her journey into the world of flowers, what it's like to unlock the floral design of each couple's wedding, what a typical “wedding week” is like, the difference between local and imported flowers, the importance of sustainable and foam-free florals, and why wedding flowers are an investment. We also touch on advice for making the most of whatever budget you have for your wedding florals, and her top tip for choosing florists to partner with, whether you're an engaged couple or fellow vendor.To find out more about her, head over to her gorgeous Instagram profile and website.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Elizabeth Wellington from Kinship Collaborative. Together, we discuss mindfulness, emotional wellness, and the importance of communication in challenging times when things feel out of control. We talk about wedding planning and all the ways in which this transitional period of life can challenge and stretch different relationship dynamics. We explore advice for couples on protecting against the anxieties and emotional struggles that are often faced during the engagement journey, communication techniques for delicate family dynamics, as well as ways in which wedding vendors can support couples during this time, and be there for them in a mindful and considerate way.To find out more about her, head over to the Kinship Collaborative Instagram profile and website.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing my dear friend Jen Feroze from Jackdaw Editorial, who is a copywriter, author, and poet extraordinaire. We discuss Jen's business journey towards serving wedding vendors in their search for their most authentic business voice. We cover topics such as the power of storytelling and being playful with copywriting, how vendors can best communicate and connect with couples, how engaged couples can use words to make their wedding day as personal and meaningful as possible, how to uncover our own style of writing, and lots more.To find out more about her, head over to the Jackdaw Editorial Instagram profile and website. You can also find out more about the latest poetry collection she mentions over at The Colour of Hope. If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode I discuss some thoughts and insights on elopements: what they are, advice for couples on how to plan one, and also tips for suppliers looking to serve couples having elopements or intimate weddings.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing my dear friend and wedding cake maker Sarah.We discuss Sarah's fascinating journey into the world of baking and weddings, and discuss topics like the effects of social media, the meaning of self care, how to be kind to ourselves and not expect too much from our creativity, and generally what looking after our mental health means to us - particularly during challenging times.To find out more about her and her two beautiful brands, head over to:Tiny Sarah's Cakes Instagram profile and websiteAvant Garde Cake Studio Instagram profile and websiteIf you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode I interview real couple Hannah and Ben, who are engaged to be married in Summer 2021. We discuss their wedding planning journey, what they loved, what they found difficult, and what has been helpful for them along the way. Throughout our chat we touch on how they found their suppliers, how they used social media for inspiration, the tools they used, their perspective on budgeting, and they kindly offer their thoughtful, valuable advice for both vendors and couples.If you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing wedding photographer Rebecca Carpenter and wedding videographer Russell Nicholls.We discuss a little bit about how Rebecca and Russell started working in the wedding industry, and then review lots of tips, anecdotes, and advice about how wedding photographers and videographers can work in harmony on a wedding day.To find out more about these fabulous speakers, head over to:Rebecca's Instagram profile, YouTube channel, and websiteRussell's Instagram profile, YouTube channel, and websiteIf you would like to connect with me, you can always find me on Instagram, on my website, and directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this interview, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!

A trailer and introduction for The Stars Inside, a podcast which mindfully bridges the gap between engaged couples and wedding vendors.If you'd like to stay in the loop with updates and new episodes, you can find me on Instagram on @thestarsinside_thepodcast and on my main business account on @thestarsinside. You can also find out more about me and what I do over here on my website, and contact me directly in my inbox by emailing valentina@thestarsinside.com - I would love to hear from you!If you enjoyed this trailer, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss out on any upcoming episodes – and if you could leave me a rating and a review that would be hugely appreciated too!