Podcasts about wedding wisdom

Join us for a fun episode of A2 THE SHOW as we welcome Marcus Aurelius Higgs, a communication coach at Certain Future. Dedicated to helping parents of preteens (ages 10-14) foster meaningful relationships with their children during the pivotal "identity-breaking" years, Marcus works with parents who value tackling challenges and being actively present in their children's lives. Join us as we explore the principles of entertainment and connection, the value of human presence, and the impact of social media on mental well-being. Through Marcus's expert guidance, parents learn to bridge the gap and connect with their children, ensuring lasting, positive relationships.

Join us for an inspiring episode with Dana S. Diaz, a DePaul University graduate and advocate for victims of narcissistic abuse. Drawing from her nearly three-decade abusive marriage, Dana discusses the differences between benign and malignant narcissists, trauma bonding, and identifying healthy relationships. She also shares her journey of healing and self-love, along with advice on supporting friends in abusive marriages. Her first book, based on her experiences, raises awareness about narcissistic abuse.

Welcome to Episode 197 of the Thinklings Podcast! We hope your summer is going super well and you're reading tons of great books and discussing them with your friends! For Books & Business, Thinkling Carter discusses the Wedding Wisdom poem he crafted for Andy's Wedding, Thinklings Little mentions The Phoenix and The Carpet by E. Nesbit, and Thinkling Stearns shares a few more C.S. Lewis quotes and mentions a book he has started, The Trinity: An Introduction by Scott R. Swain! Thinkling Little wraps up the episode with a final meditation on wedding metaphors in Scripture, focusing on the Song and Ephesians 5, etc.! Main Topics in Episode 197: Books & Business Poetry The Phoenix and The Carpet - E. Nesbit C.S. Lewis The Trinity: An Introduction - Scott R. Swain Song of Solomon Ephesians 5 Final Meditation: Thinkling Little shares a final meditation from The Song and Ephesians 5.

We are thrilled to welcome Prof. Mike Barnes to A2 THE SHOW. As a Director at Maple Tree Consultants, Prof. Barnes is a pioneering figure in the medical cannabis industry. His groundbreaking 2016 report significantly advanced cannabis use in the UK. Currently the Chief Medical Officer of Project Twenty21, he is working to secure NHS funding for medical cannabis. Prof. Barnes also founded the Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society and the Cannabis Industry Council, championing education and industry standards. With a 30-year career in neurorehabilitation, he is a respected educator and author of *The Beginner's Guide to Medical Cannabis*. Join us as we explore his insights on the transformative potential of medical cannabis.

Introducing our new guests, Lynn Maleh and Gena B. Jones! Join us on the next episode of A2 THE SHOW as we feature Hilarious Habibis, the Hollywood Improv's first stand-up comedy showcase primarily highlighting MENA (Middle Eastern/North African) comics. This show brings together diverse artists and audiences, offering laughs on everything from cultural quirks to AMC commercials. Originally created for MENA comedians to connect with agents, it has evolved into a vibrant hub for the MENA community in LA and beyond. Learn more about Hilarious Habibis here:

Join us on our next episode of A2 THE SHOW as we welcome Junaid, the founder of Humblezone and creator of Home Studio Mastery. With two decades of video production experience and expertise in web and app design, Junaid provides comprehensive plans for studio equipment, lighting, and layout to podcasters, speakers, and content creators, enabling effortless content creation in home studios. He is the author of "Mastering iPhone Video Production" and hosts the "Hacks & Hobbies" podcast. Junaid frequently speaks at events like Podfest and virtual summits. Learn more about Junaid here: https://humblezone.com/speaker/junaid-ahmed/ Don't miss this insightful episode! Please visit our website to get more information: https://a2theshow.com/a2-the-show/ ⏰Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 05:00 - Enhancing video calls with better lighting to avoid plastic surgery trends 10:11 - Handling technical difficulties during recordings 15:02 - Continuous learning and brain cell growth 20:43 - Common success path: repetition, failure, and learning 25:01 - Importance of surrounding yourself with successful individuals 29:46 - Henry Ford's success through surrounding himself with entrepreneurs 35:06 - The guest's background and love for gaming and Marvel 39:18 - The significance of favorite movies and how they inspire personal growth

Join us on A2 THE SHOW as we welcome our friend and medical student, Abbas Jawhar. Abbas shares his family's experiences with Ozempic, clarifies herpes misconceptions, and compares US and UK healthcare systems. He discusses overcoming roller coaster anxiety, personal growth, relationship dynamics, and the challenges of wedding planning. Additionally, Abbas talks about the health impacts of sugar in processed foods and offers heartfelt wedding planning advice. Don't miss this episode filled with professional insights and personal stories. Please visit our website to get more information: https://a2theshow.com/a2-the-show/ ⏰Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 05:23 - Family members' experiences with Ozempic 09:29 - Herpes: types and misconceptions 14:09 - Trust in healthcare systems: US vs. UK 19:41 - Overcoming roller coaster anxiety 22:08 - Personal growth through facing fears 25:00 - Anxiety and bravery in relationships 30:01 - Stress of organizing wedding details 35:01 - Challenges of sending wedding invitations 40:00 - Sugar in processed foods and health impacts 44:25 - Wedding planning advice focusing on personal happiness

Want a picture-perfect wedding day? Dreaming of golden hour wedding photos?   We highlight key wedding planning truths.   This podcast is for engaged couples who are stressed out with wedding planning and family expectations but want a fun wedding day.   In today's edition, discover the importance of the 'Golden Hour' photos, managing toasts, and the evolving tradition of the Cake Cutting ceremony.   Get insights and learn how to make your wedding day truly yours from having a First Look, to the Photo Dash, and the significance of having a reliable vendor team, to the emerging trend of Live Painters at weddings.   Join us on the Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast for expert advice from Jess from JH Events.   Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast #92: Brutally Honest Truths You Need To Know Before Your Wedding with Jess From JH Events Host: Sal & Sam Music: "Sam's Tune" by Rick Anthony Guest: Jess from JH Events.   TIMESTAMP 00:00 Introduction: Brutally Honest Wedding Planning Advice with Jess from JH Events 01:15 Meet the Experts: Sal and Sam's Wedding Wisdom 02:49 Welcoming Jess from JH Events Shares Advice for Couples Before The Wedding 03:48 Traditions Explored: First Look  05:30 Receiving Line Tradition 07:47 Emerging Trends: Live Painters and Golden Hour Photos 08:20 The Golden Hour Explained 09:46 JH Events Social Media 10:26 Wedding Tip Wednesday: Summer Essentials 14:19 Speeches - How Many Is Too Much  17:50 The Photo Dash Explained  19:00 Cake Cutting Tradition Going Away 20:30 More About JH Events 22:00 JH Events Social Media 22:33 Final Thoughts and Podcast Wrap-up 24:00 Close   Get your FREE no-obligation report TODAY: "8 QUESTIONS YOU MUST ASK A WEDDING PROFESSIONAL BEFORE BOOKING THEM" http://forms.aweber.com/form/55/756659955.htm Music List Giveaway  https://www.afterhourseventsofne.com/guestcontact *** Join us in the Stress-free Wedding Planning Facebook group https://urlgeni.us/facebook/stress-free-wedding-planning Sponsored in part by Clear Vision Productions and the Wedding Styles of CT Wedding Shows.   https://www.weddingstylesofct.com/   https://www.theclearvisionagency.com/ Wedding Tip Wednesday on the Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast is sponsored by EMERGE Cosmetics – 10% OFF promo code: SF1 https://shopemergecosmetics.com/ Copyright © 2024 Atmosphere Productions LLC All Rights Reserved. Produced By Atmosphere Productions in association with After Hours Events of New England https://atmosphere-productions.com https://www.afterhourseventsofne.com #stressfreeweddingplanning #stressfreeweddingplanningpodcast #ctweddingdj #atmosphereproductions #afterhourseventsofne #cvpevents #clearvisionproductions #theclearvisionagency #dreamwedding #WalkDownTheAisle

Want a picture-perfect wedding day? Dreaming of golden hour wedding photos?   We highlight key wedding planning truths.   This podcast is for engaged couples who are stressed out with wedding planning and family expectations but want a fun wedding day.   In today's edition, discover the importance of the 'Golden Hour' photos, managing toasts, and the evolving tradition of the Cake Cutting ceremony.   Get insights and learn how to make your wedding day truly yours from having a First Look, to the Photo Dash, and the significance of having a reliable vendor team, to the emerging trend of Live Painters at weddings.   Join us on the Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast for expert advice from Jess from JH Events.   Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast #92: Brutally Honest Truths You Need To Know Before Your Wedding with Jess From JH Events Host: Sal & Sam Music: "Sam's Tune" by Rick Anthony Guest: Jess from JH Events.   TIMESTAMP 00:00 Introduction: Brutally Honest Wedding Planning Advice with Jess from JH Events 01:15 Meet the Experts: Sal and Sam's Wedding Wisdom 02:49 Welcoming Jess from JH Events Shares Advice for Couples Before The Wedding 03:48 Traditions Explored: First Look  05:30 Receiving Line Tradition 07:47 Emerging Trends: Live Painters and Golden Hour Photos 08:20 The Golden Hour Explained 09:46 JH Events Social Media 10:26 Wedding Tip Wednesday: Summer Essentials 14:19 Speeches - How Many Is Too Much  17:50 The Photo Dash Explained  19:00 Cake Cutting Tradition Going Away 20:30 More About JH Events 22:00 JH Events Social Media 22:33 Final Thoughts and Podcast Wrap-up 24:00 Close   Get your FREE no-obligation report TODAY: "8 QUESTIONS YOU MUST ASK A WEDDING PROFESSIONAL BEFORE BOOKING THEM" http://forms.aweber.com/form/55/756659955.htm Music List Giveaway  https://www.afterhourseventsofne.com/guestcontact *** Join us in the Stress-free Wedding Planning Facebook group https://urlgeni.us/facebook/stress-free-wedding-planning Sponsored in part by Clear Vision Productions and the Wedding Styles of CT Wedding Shows.   https://www.weddingstylesofct.com/   https://www.theclearvisionagency.com/ Wedding Tip Wednesday on the Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast is sponsored by EMERGE Cosmetics – 10% OFF promo code: SF1 https://shopemergecosmetics.com/ Copyright © 2024 Atmosphere Productions LLC All Rights Reserved. Produced By Atmosphere Productions in association with After Hours Events of New England https://atmosphere-productions.com https://www.afterhourseventsofne.com #stressfreeweddingplanning #stressfreeweddingplanningpodcast #ctweddingdj #atmosphereproductions #afterhourseventsofne #cvpevents #clearvisionproductions #theclearvisionagency #dreamwedding #WalkDownTheAisle

Experience the magic of wedding planning with our special guest, Mireya, owner of Weddings by Mireya!

Welcome back to 'White Dress Optional'! Mel and Malea are here with an exciting episode full of expert wedding dress shopping tips tailored to your Enneagram type. No cookie-cutter advice here; we're all about empowering and equipping you with personalized knowledge to make this special day everything you've dreamed of. After all, your perfect wedding dress will be the second best "yes" you'll say along your wedding journey, and we've got your back! Join us as Mel and Malea share all the best insights for a shopping experience that is true to YOU. 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 absolutely thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments to schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!

Welcome back to the White Dress Optional Podcast! This week, Mel and Malea kick off our Enneagram Wedding Wisdom series with an episode dedicated to understanding each Enneagram type and how this insightful tool can play an effective role in planning the wedding of your dreams. Just like our personalities, every celebration of love is one-of-a-kind. Knowing your own Enneagram type can be the key to putting together a wedding that is free from stress and authentically you! Join us as Mel and Malea explore each Enneagram type 1 through 9, sharing invaluable wedding planning tips tailored to each personality. 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 absolutely thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments to schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!

Wedtalks is hosted by Lauren Muckler of Westwind Hills, located in Pacific, MO. 

Getting married is a HUGE life milestone and Sarah is BACK from the honeymoon and ready to spill all the tea.  She and her Hubby are on the pod today in a rare, intimate episode to recap their Wedding Day, share some Wedding Wisdom and chat about married life! Want more?!  Stay in touch with Sarah Follow along on https://www.instagram.com/Bigkidproblems/?hl=en (@bigkidproblems)! New Personal  IG Handle, WHOS THIS https://www.instagram.com/sarahmerrill_hall/ (@SarahMerrill_Hall) Find more at www.BigKidProblems.com  Big thank you to our episode sponsors! http://www.bridebrite.co (Bride Brite) - Get a brighter, whiter smile today! Use code “BIGKID” for free shipping and 40% off  at www.bridebrite.co http://www.prose.com/bigkid (Prose) - Get your FREE in-depth hair consultation and 15% off your new favorite hair care products at www.prose.com/bigkid Big Kid Problems is a production of http://crate.media (Crate Media)

My guest for Ep. 95 of The Wedding Wisdom Podcast is the extraordinary Chef Jill Freiberg, the owner of Jillicious Foods & Events. Our fascinating conversation from her home in Park Slope, provides an extraordinarily vivid portrait of what it’s like to be both Head Chef and owner of one of New York’s most sought-after “Off-Premise” catering companies. With a true artist’s sensibility, she talks about finishing the construction of her “post-COVID” dream kitchen with the same charm that she speaks of offering her beloved “Spiced, Smoked, Roasted Popcorn,” “S’mores Kit” and “Grazing Boxes” to purchase online. I truly hope you enjoy this unique look into a fascinating life as much as I did. Thanks for everything Jill! -Please stay safe, Doug

In a truly refreshing conversation with Kleinfeld Bridal’s Director of Marketing & Public Relations, Jennette Kruszka, you’ll meet an extraordinary woman. One with an uncompromising pride and loyalty to her company and its owners, Mara Urshel and Ronnie Rothstein, who she considers her “second parents” as well as devoted mentors. What I found amazing about Jennette is that working at Kleinfeld has been her sole employer. Starting as a 17-year old high school student Customer Service Rep, straight through college as a marketing major, she worked at the original Brooklyn location three days a week. Her final college paper was the reason why she deserved a full-time position at her beloved Kleinfeld. She got it, and since then, has never looked back. Jennette says: “It’s been twenty wonderful years and I’m looking forward to the two decades.” I think this is a wonderful introduction to fans of TLC’s “Say Yes To The Dress” and brides who’ve never had the true Kleinfeld Bridal Experience. Please stay safe, and enjoy. All my best, Doug

Meet Allan Kurtz, Managing Director of both Gotham Hall & Ziegfeld Ballroom, after three years at The Water’s Edge and 13 years at Tavern on The Green. To say he is a wealth of information would be a vast understatement. He is heavily involved with petitioning the government for aid to our $1.3 Trillion Event Industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. He’s actually an “event historian” working with Hollywood impresario Warner LeRoy at Tavern On The Green, and studying Broadway impresario Flo Ziegfeld when helping to create Ziegfeld Ballroom. In the course of our wide-ranging conversation we talk about meeting Presidents Reagan, Bush, Clinton and Obama as well as a moving story about being in a position to put his grandfather on the phone with Willie Mays. This specific episode is a “must-listen” for anyone in, or interested in the Events Industry.

My guest for Episode 87 is the absolutely delightful Amanda O’Callaghan. Her career as a top-tier wedding planner began at Housing Works, a NYC-based non-profit fighting AIDS and homelessness. At that point in time, Amanda  simultaneously began developing byAmanda Event Studio, which officially grew into The Union Studio in 2020. We take a deep-dive into the development of The Hudson Valley as the new epicenter of the NY tri-state area weddings,  the relationship between producing weddings and conceiving a theatrical play, her artistic pursuit of singing and dancing on Broadway, and so much more. I truly hope you enjoy meeting Amanda as much as I did. She’s truly amazing. Stay Safe! Enjoy! Doug

Born and raised in Santa Barbara, California, acclaimed photographer Phillip Van Nostrand has already led an extraordinary life. His background as an Evangelical Christian speaks to his passion for mentoring young people and a long-held belief that there is nothing more important than inspiring others to “live out their dreams.” He credits the program “Semester At Sea,” as a college student at UCSB for igniting his lifelong passion for travel and  “Engage Summits” for introducing him to the world of luxury weddings and events. Much of our delightful conversation focuses on these glamorous and exciting twin passions.  He has great expectations for 2021, but, thoughtfully, takes time to talk about “the gifts” he received during this past troubling year. With all my best wishes to you, Phil, and to my audience,  here’s to a spectacular New Year! Stay safe, healthy and hopeful as we look ahead to the future. All my best, -Doug 

For Episode 85 I got the unique opportunity to sit down with Steve Frost, President & Managing Partner of Stamford Tent & Event Services, to take s seriously deep dive into the world of tents, outdoor weddings and/or corporate events. We discuss the concept behind the idea of enjoying an elegant wedding outdoors under the stars, in a tent, as an alternative to more traditional venues, like a hotel, or synagogue.  I learned what a “sub-floor” is, and why it’s the most expensive part of constructing a tent. I learned the difference between a “sailcloth” and a “frame tent” is and most importantly, how incredibly labor intensive constructing a tent actually is. And more than I ever thought possible in one forty minute conversation. I submit that this episode be “required listening” for anyone considering a tent wedding. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, one and all. Please stay safe and stay warm. All my best, -Doug

Today I have the privilege of sitting down with the brilliant and talented owner of Neuman’s Kitchen, Paul Neuman. Paul takes us from his college years and lifelong journey as an artist to being the one of the most respected and influential “Off-Premise” caterers in New York.  In 2017, Neuman’s Kitchen opened an office in Philadelphia and takes great pride in his new partnership with the city’s National Museum of American Jewish History. This episode is a must for anyone who has ever considered hosting their wedding or gala event in a tent, museum, library or any other non-traditional venue. This is truly a masterclass on the role of food and food service in the event industry. Stay safe, stay strong, and keep listening to the scientists. We’re gonna get through this together! -Doug

My guest for Wedding Wisdom Podcast Episode 81 is one of the most sought-after “hair-and-makeup” artists in Manhattan, Sharon Becker of SB Beauty.  Her encyclopedic knowledge of how to make a bride “look like her on her best day” is only matched by her fierce desire to grow as an artist; relentlessly pursuing new ways of refining and re-inventing who she is and what she does. Through a series of delightful anecdotes about her work as a makeup artist, from a “snow-globe” in Vail, Colorado to Richard Bramson’s private island in the British Virgin Islands, she provides us with not only priceless “wedding wisdom,” but a unique glimpse into her passion for our industry. Sharon Becker is a genuine force-of-nature and as you’ll hear in the episode, “the first guest to leave me speechless.” And allow me the honor and privilege of congratulating President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice-President-Elect Kamala Harris on their uniquely historic victory. All the best, Doug

Welcome to my remarkable conversation with an extraordinarily unique voice in the Weddings/Events industry, Robert Severini. As the Director of Events at the Wildlife Conservation Society, he has the unique perspective of someone who supervises countless spectacular events at five incredible landmark New York City locations, including The Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo and the New York Aquarium in Coney Island.  His journey starts with a quick stint as a busboy/server and continues through several of the most prestigious “Off-Premise” catering companies stretching from The Hamptons to The Meatpacking District on Manhattan’s West Side. Sit back and enjoy my delightful chat with one of the terrific young “movers-and-shakers” in the events industry. As always, stay safe, stay strong and don’t forget to VOTE. Best, Doug

My latest “Zoomland” podcast features the delightful and charming Marina Luri, the eponymous destination event planner of  Marina Luri Events. Our inspirational and informative conversation was actually “Take Two” with Marina — as I feel I must confess and (once again) thank her for agreeing to re-record the podcast; I actually forgot to press “record” when we began our first conversation! But, Marina was just as upbeat and filled with incredible insights on our second take as she was on our first…beginning with her being born in New York and continuing with her account of dual citizenship with Italy and a brief and idyllic time spent in Switzerland, all of which made her fluent in four languages by the time she was in her early teens. After her early European adventures, Marina returned to New York and burst onto the PR and Fashion scenes with invaluable stints at  Donna Karan and Hermès, recounting extraordinary experiences with both. Read moreEp. 66: Marina Luri

The recording of Episode 59 was a wonderfully uplifting Zoom adventure with the lovely, dynamic and deeply spiritual Andrea Freeman who came back to the podcast to explore a very timely subject and reveal an exciting and deeply meaningful part of herself.  So, if you only know Andrea Freeman as a talented and successful event planner get ready for a treat…and meet Andrea Freeman, Mindful Business Coach. Andrea reveals her lifelong “obsession” with mindfulness, which began when she “borrowed” her mother’s book by Andrew Weil at the tender age of thirteen. As she explains, she was always looking for ways we can all get more connected to ourselves. From her vision boards to her little cabin in Maine, her career teaching in Bedford Stuyvesant to her move to culinary school, her launch of Andrea Freeman Events to her move to Los Angeles with her husband,  Andrea discovered her own spirituality and clear purpose: mindfulness — whether it’s meditation, practicing TM, journaling, psychology or any other process of uncovering who you are…and the joy in every moment, as you follow your bliss rather than a want or desire. And, it’s led to her sharing her understanding of self-knowledge, intention, affirmation, energy and creativity to help others cultivate it for themselves as they build their businesses, with inspiration, clarity and confidence. Join us for an unforgettable podcast that will elevate and inspire you…

Episode 21- Wedding tips and tricks courtesy of Sarah Ham. Wedding season is just around the corner, well plus one year due to COVID-19. But now that you have more time to plan that dream wedding or future wedding of yours, listen in to this podcast to learn about simple tricks and tips to keep your budget low and your style high. Whether you’re engaged, in a relationship, or still single and ready to mingle, this is great episode to listen to for future planning or to recommend to that one bride friend we all have, you know the one.

Episode 45 features the intensely dynamic and utterly charming Ali Barone, Owner and Creative Director of Ali Barone Events, a full service event planning company. Our delightful conversation is as versatile and creative as Ali herself  — from her roots in Brooklyn to her role as an educator…as we follow her work in television that began behind the camera and ultimately moved on-air on cable TV (TLC)…to her extraordinary career as a gifted and highly sought-after event planner. Ali’s incredible energy and remarkably wide-ranging skill set, resourcefulness and many, many creative talents are a fascinating mix — and so is our episode! Enjoy, -Doug

Allyson Joseph is the co-owner of the family-owned Los Angeles based wedding-industry giant, Bob Gail Events. Warm, funny, incredibly smart and gracious, she’s a remarkably accomplished young woman. Who sends hand-written thank you notes to vendors post-events? The same person who wrote her Masters thesis about the theoretical perspectives of the wedding and event industry, crowdsurfed at her own wedding and launched her career with an internship at Danny Meyer’s Union Square Cafe  before heading back to run the company business in L.A. Only the extraordinary Allyson Joseph. From tales of Clinton’s Inaugural Ball to installing a scaffold dance floor over a pool to spontaneous/”surprise” event planning, our conversation is bright, fast-paced, engaging and lively, filled with informative and entertaining stories of weddings she has produced from Southern California to Tuscany and points all over the globe…Her thoughtful, meaningful words ask and speak volumes when Allyson muses about the “motivation behind the spend,” or explains that, of course, “lighting is everything.” Allyson has a great deal of terrific advice for brides and grooms which you’ll hear in the episode ahead, but one of the best I’ve yet to hear is to “decide to enjoy yourself” at your own wedding. And, in that spirit, I invite you to simply enjoy the extraordinarily inventive, creative and inspiring Allyson Joseph on this episode 44 of the podcast. Best, -Doug

Today’s guest is Bill Spinner, Director of Catering at The Pierre Hotel.  Iconic and timeless — as both a place to stay and/or dine or host or attend an event —  The Pierre is one of the most gracious, luxurious, stylish and truly beautiful places in the city; it’s a New York landmark.  Quite fittingly, and with extraordinary commitment and passion, Bill brings his own unique brand of elegance and talent as he oversees every aspect of the hotel’s expansive food and beverage operations. And as a bandleader who has had the pleasure of playing parties in almost every exciting and exquisite event space in the city, The Pierre has always been —  hands down — my absolute favorite. Quite simply, Bill is one of the most beloved people in the event business. He is a true gentleman, dedicated to serving the most elite clientele in Manhattan. And yet, he is also one of the most genuinely down-to-earth, smart, warm and funny people I’ve ever known. Our conversation wanders over a myriad of subjects, ranging from his years spent working in his parents’ restaurant/hotel business to his experiences at two other venerable venues in Manhattan: Windows on the World and The Rainbow Room.  I really hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did. Best, -Doug

Despite this week’s lingering heat, I’m hanging onto summer and the last moments of the “lush season” after months of so many beautiful weddings and terrific events…even though September always brings that great “back-to-school” feeling of great new beginnings. In that spirit, I’m thrilled to bring you a wonderful podcast with the lovely event pros, Susan Bell & Heather Prochorchik of Bell Events. Our conversation covers myriad fascinating issues that apply to the success of every wedding. Specifically, we looked at the amorphous, hard-to-describe work of a full-service event company like Bell Events, and uncovered how incredibly valuable and important it is to making a wedding an extraordinary event. Enjoy my chat these two amazing women and then, find out more about them on Pinterest and Instagram (belleventsnyc) and by visiting their gorgeous website at bellevents.com. I’d also like to acknowledge to generosity of Bill Spinner and The Pierre Hotel for allowing us to use one of their conference rooms for this recording. Best, -Doug

For episode 22, we’re still celebrating the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry to American actress Meghan Markle….especially because I’m sitting down with the equally spectacular Kate Edmonds. I just can’t imagine a better guest with whom to dish about the incredible May 19th event. In addition to being one of the most sought-after party planners in Manhattan,  Kate is an expert on all things wedding, and of course, all things British.  Brilliant, funny and filled with insights, it was a delight talking with the lovely Kate.  Enjoy! Thanks for listening, and take a moment, if you would, to subscribe to the podcast.  Please spread the word. I’m off to prepare for this weekend’s weddings. All my best, Doug

In this podcast, Episode 17, we travel up a bit to Bridgewater, CT and the home of the lovely and expert event planner Eileen Smith. Our insightful conversation focused on everything having to do with her true specialty….outdoor and tent weddings as opposed to using a more traditional venue.  She talks about some of the best experiences one can have at an outdoor event.  The best part? As we agreed, when you’re celebrating outside, quite literally, the sky’s the limit.  Eileen even tells how she was able to design an elaborate “sub-floored” tent on a “literal ski-slope” to accommodate one of her clients. Anyone thinking about a “tent” wedding, should savor every delicious nugget of advice Eileen offers after a decade of experience planning all kinds of “al fresco” parties in the great outdoors.  And as Spring becomes official today, the timing couldn’t be any better.  Join us for ideas, inspiration and lots of details.

Episode 15 takes us to the charming village of Scarsdale and the offices of Sharon Snyder, the charismatic owner of Standing Room Only and SRO Fine Foods. During our lively conversation, we focus on the SRO Fine Foods division, known as one of the finest “off-premise” caterers in the wedding/event business. Sharon is a delight to talk with. She’s energetic and fun and extremely insightful about every aspect of catering a wedding, especially those held in a non-traditional setting such as a tent, a museum, or an art gallery. I’m thrilled for you to listen to Sharon talk about off-premise catering, a subject we’ve yet to explore on the podcast. Please subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, GooglePlay, PlayerFM, or wherever you listen to podcasts. And, as always, feel free to leave comments, and let me know whom you’d like to hear on Wedding Wisdom Podcast w/ Doug Winters.

This latest episode features a return to the the podcast by the wonderful and talented Vanda High. This is Part 2 of a terrific conversation.  If you heard it, you know that the first time Vanda was on, we spoke about all the “little things” couples do to make their weddings unique. This time we go on a deep-dive into the real “nuts & bolts” of the wedding process, from the engagement to kissing your guests goodbye after a fabulous party. I actually learned a great deal myself. As a bandleader, I spend all my time concentrating solely on getting — and keeping — the dance floor packed. Vanda sheds a giant klieg light on virtually every part of the wedding process, from establishing a budget to details about table sizes and transportation. She speaks with great authority — and a great deal of vitality — about virtually every element involved in planning the perfect wedding.  Like me, Vanda clearly loves what she does. Thank you, Vanda; I thoroughly enjoyed this episode and learned more than I ever thought possible about this wedding business. While I have loved uncovering fascinating stories and so much fantastic data from all kinds of expert guests, and I hope you will listen to all of those podcasts, this episode exemplifies all the reasons I wanted to do Wedding Wisdom in the first place — to provide couples with a place to go to find  “all things wedding.”  And for anybody who thinks wedding pros get jaded, think again. And just scroll to the last two minutes of  “the pod” and tell me you wouldn’t want Vanda High to “produce” your wedding. Enjoy, -Doug

I recently sat down with the delightful, legendary party planner, Kate Edmonds. Although we had never met before, we immediately fell into a comfortable conversational rhythm. When the podcast ended, Kate gave me the best compliment possible. “It sounded like two professionals chatting about the industry we both love.”  Enjoy! -Doug

I recently had the privilege of sitting down with a true pioneer in the event business, Ronnie Davis. From a conference room in the offices of Great Performances Catering, Ronnie takes us from his beginnings as a “third-generation-kosher-caterer” in Philadelphia to producing the legendary party celebrating the publication of Madonna and Steven Meisel’s book, “Sex”, and through twenty years of star-studded “after-parties” for The Grammys, and hundreds of spectacular events around the globe. His is truly the story of a life well-lived. 

Today I get to sit down and speak with the amazing Elisabeth Withers. I first saw her magic as a performer when I asked her to “sit-in” with my band, Best Kept Secret, during a rousing dance set at a wedding on Long Island. Lis had stopped by our wedding, after finishing her “gig” at a nearby Bar Mitzvah. It was around 1:00am and the dance floor was packed with guests, surrounding the bride and groom, when Lis came over and gave me a hug. I immediately handed her an extra microphone and invited her to join the other three singers entertaining the crowd. Thanks to Lis’s extraordinary personality, she immediately electrified the room, captivating the crowd with “call & response” chants. Suddenly, I heard her call out “When I say ‘Doug,’ you say ‘Winters.’ ” As if rehearsed, she shouted ‘Doug’  and sure enough, 200 people responded ‘Winters.’  After two or three repetitions, the wedding reception was now a “rock concert,” if not a full-blown “revival meeting.” Soon after that party she auditioned for the coveted part of Shug Avery in the Broadway Musical Production of “The Color Purple.” She not only got the part, but was nominated for both a Tony Award for Best Supporting Actress. and a Grammy Award for Best Original Soundtrack Recording. Lis has also sung “back-up” vocals for iconic performers Ashford & Simpson, Luther Vandross and Erykah Badu. She is currently living in Orlando, Fla. working with her husband Damon Mendes on their education-based project, Orlando Eye On Talent. Enjoy! -Doug

I get to sit down with wedding coordinator who explains how it’s the job of a good wedding coordinator to work with each bridal couple to help them make their wildest dreams a reality. She starts by listening to each couple to discover their plans for producing what will eventually become their version of “the perfect wedding.” It’s a fascinating conversation beginning with how she first gets an inkling of the path each couple wants to follow to make their celebration “a genuine expression of their unique selves.” Check out Vanda’s website at vandahighevents.com Enjoy, -Doug

Minute by minute w/ Melani Lust… 00:19 San Diego to Manhattan to study dance with the Alvin Ailey Theatre. Working as a model…dressing as a sneaker for a “toy convention,” 05:53 A short discussion of “the casting couch” for young models, actors and dancers. 07:45 Working at Sotheby’s, authenticating artwork, and hand-delivering a $10,000,000 Mondrian to a penthouse on Park Ave. 11:30 Learning photography by shooting 2-dimensional paintings as well as 3-dimensional sculpture “in the basement of the ancient sculpture in Naples.” 12:45 Learning Latin, French, German and Dutch to transcribe art manuscripts. 13:58 Henri Cartier-Bresson and “The Decisive Moment.” 16:40 Becoming as a full-time wedding photographer. 19:50 Backing up her “flash cards” onto Hard Drives. Sending 20-50 “sneak-peak” pictures to family members before “less than flattering” photos appear on Facebook. 27:30 Process of developing “the perfect timeline” with each bride & groom, their families, and bridal party, 29:00 Arriving at 1:00pm for a 9:00pm reception 31:00 Why “Make-Up Artists” are always running late. 33:40 Shooting bridal couples during emotionally “unfortunate” toasts. 36:00 Learning how brides like to be photographed from their Facebook Wedding Page. Tricks to get the bride and groom to laugh. 38:13 Tips for Brides: “It’s really important to know that something will go wrong on your wedding day, but the wedding is just about…love; and your connection.” Enjoy, -Doug

My first episode features a delightful discussion with my dear friend Maura Bohan, President of Maura Bohan Events. Maura is a “Day-Of” Coordinator. The first thing we discuss is what exactly what “Day-Of” entails. She begins by explaining why the number of invited guests is the most important element in planning a wedding, and how different venues can comfortably hold a 300 person wedding, with others being more appropriate for a 70 person party. The conversation is lively, and extremely informative, as I hope each episode will be. Most importantly, I want this be your home for all things regarding planning your own perfect wedding. Enjoy! -Doug

A diverse program tonight indeed!  First up is Minister Daphneleah sharing her experience of Wedding Wisdom for those out there planning their big day, or perhaps helping a loved one to plan their wedding.  Beyond the obvious, Daphneleah shares with us the importance of self care and self love, how to stay true to oneself while attending to the needs of family and friends, choosing an officiant and why that's important, and gives examples of a Goddess/God focused wedding flow.  Crossing the threshold into the second half of the show, I'll offer a meditation to Sekhmet, Lady of Tenacity Manifested, as our country deals with the summer heat, drought and fires.

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Meet Mary and Leila.  Mary is a respected and admired wedding planner, television personality, and a licensed marriage and family therapist.  She is known as the mentor of wedding planners and the wedding fixer for brides.  Leila is a we...

Meet Mary and Leila.  Mary is a respected and admired wedding planner, television personality, and a licensed marriage and family therapist.  She is known as the mentor of wedding planners and the wedding fixer for brides.  Leila is a we...