The Big Wedding Planning Podcast Michelle Martinez

If you're planning a wedding and love our planet, this episode is packed with tips, stories, and a bit of fun that’ll help you make a difference.
Michelle brings together a fantastic crew of experts who are passionate about making weddings greener. You’ll meet Courtney Barrett, an environmental scientist weaving eco-friendly magic into her own wedding, and Cris Angsten from the green-certified Oak Leaf Cottage, sharing her personal journey to sustainability. Plus, wedding planner Kristen Gosselin and David Schoenfeld from Ring Bear drop some serious knowledge (and cool ideas!) on keeping your big day beautiful and environmentally sound. 
We're all about sustainable weddings—not just for Earth Day, but for every day! 
Want to listen Ad-Free? Click HERE to become a premium subscriber:

Ad-free, full length episodes

The TBWPP Wedding Planning Resource Center with

Access to 6 mini courses of The Big Wedding Planning Master Class

Wedding Planning Templates and Tools


Links We Referenced
Courtney on Instagram
Poshmark
https://wildalchemyphotos.com/
https://www.thicketfloraldesign.com
Oak Leaf Cottage Website
Oak Leaf Cottage on Instagram
KG Events Design Website
KG Events Design on Instagram
Ring Bear Website
Ring Bear on Instagram

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics


On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!

Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode


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PLEASE LISTEN! Some important updates about the future of our show. This episode is a bit different, as I’m discussing the changes coming to the podcast and what it means for you, my valued listeners.

Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:

Ad-free, full length episodes

The TBWPP Wedding Planning Resource Center with

Access to 6 mini courses of The Big Wedding Planning Master Class

Wedding Planning Templates and Tools


Topics Covered


A Heartfelt Thank You: Expressing my deep gratitude for the incredible support from our listeners, especially our paid premium subscribers. 


Major Changes: Announcing the transition of our podcast back to a free feed model and the shift to releasing new episodes monthly. 


Our Rich Library: Over 400 episodes filled with invaluable wedding planning advice and stories are now freely available. This treasure trove of content remains a resource for anyone planning their wedding.


Premium Feed Adjustments: Introducing the new format of our premium feed, which will continue to offer an ad-free listening experience with a slight change in content offerings. The subscription pricing has been adjusted to $4.99 a month or $45.99 annually.


A Brief Pause: Explaining the pause in releasing new episodes until the end of the month as we transition to the new model. Your patience during this period is greatly appreciated.

Looking Ahead: So much excitement for the next chapter of The Big Wedding Planning Podcast and the value-packed episodes to come.

Questions or Feedback? If you have any questions about the changes or need assistance with your subscription, please don’t hesitate to reach out at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com.

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics


On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!

Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feeding your wedding vendors isn't just courtesy—it's a must, especially for those who dedicate hours to make your day special. In this episode, I chat with my dear friend and seasoned wedding pro, Duncan Reyes. Dive into our lively discussion on the ins and outs of vendor meals, filled with insights, laughter, and Duncan's unmatched charm. Don't miss out!

Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:

Ad-free, full length episodes

The TBWPP Wedding Planning Resource Center with

Access to 6 mini courses of The Big Wedding Planning Master Class

Wedding Planning Templates and Tools


Topics We Covered

Understanding the necessity of providing vendor meals

Clarification on which vendors require meals 

Insights into the cost of vendor meals

Optimal timing for serving vendor meals during the event

Whether vendors should receive the same meal as guests

Options for sourcing vendor meals: caterer vs. external options 

Timing for finalizing vendor meal counts alongside guest counts

Inquiring about food allergies among vendor staff


About The Guest
Duncan Reyes began his illustrious career as a Corporate Event Planner before moving into luxury hotel management and event planning with roles at The Portman Hotel, The Pan Pacific Hotel San Francisco, The Fairmont Hotel in both San Francisco & Chicago, The Julia Morgan Ballroom, and The Westin St. Francis Hotel San Francisco. With over 30 years of experience in wedding, corporate, and social event planning, Duncan's passion and exceptional skills led him to found F. Duncan Reyes Events By Design, making him a premiere figure in the event industry. Honored by the San Francisco Business Times in 2009 and a recipient of multiple WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards, Duncan is celebrated for his ability to create sophisticated, unique events that reflect his clients' styles, drawing on a vast network of resources to turn dreams into lasting memories.

Links We Referenced
Duncan on Instagram
Duncan’s Website

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics


On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!

Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An exclusive behind-the-scenes journey with Violeta, a bride on the brink of her wedding day, and me, her wedding planning guide and fairy godmother. This episode is a treasure trove of voice messages shared between us during the crucial last 72 hours before her big day, topped off with a heartfelt Zoom catch-up post-rehearsal. From forgotten boutonnieres to impromptu speeches, witness the real, unfiltered moments of wedding planning magic and mayhem. Violeta's reflections the day after her wedding offer a raw, emotional insight into the whirlwind of tying the knot. Join us for this intimate glimpse into the highs and lows of the final countdown, and maybe pick up a few tips for your own journey down the aisle.

Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:

Ad-free, full length episodes

The TBWPP Wedding Planning Resource Center with

Access to 6 mini courses of The Big Wedding Planning Master Class

Wedding Planning Templates and Tools


Topics Covered / What you will learn

Real-life wedding planning crunch time

Navigating last-minute details

The emotional impact of wedding rehearsals

Handling forgotten elements gracefully

Post-wedding reflections

Insights on giving away wedding items

The importance of gratitude in speeches

Creative solutions for including distant family members


The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics


On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!

Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me as I talk with Eli and Matt for a candid conversation about their recent wedding journey. Dive into the heart of their experiences, from the joys and surprises to the moments of reflection that shaped their special day. They share invaluable insights on staying aligned with their true priorities, navigating unexpected situations, and the significant impact of finding guidance and support throughout their planning process. Their story is not just about the planning and the celebration but a reminder of the love and commitment at the core of a wedding. Don't miss this heartfelt retrospective filled with laughter, lessons, and love.

Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:

Ad-free, full length episodes

The TBWPP Wedding Planning Resource Center with

Access to 6 mini courses of The Big Wedding Planning Master Class

Wedding Planning Templates and Tools


Topics We Covered

How personalities and strengths play a role in the distribution of labor 

Navigating unexpected moments

Prioritizing personal touches

Embracing wedding surprises

Setting the ceremony tone

Creating an inclusive vibe

Integrating cultural traditions

Including distant family members

Exciting and unique micro-events


About Our Guests
Eli is originally from Beaufort, SC. He now lives in Baltimore, MD with his husband Matt by way of Washington, DC. He has a background in nonprofit fundraising and social impact business development. 

Matt is originally from Sandwich, MA. He moved to Baltimore, MD for Teach for America over a decade ago. Originally an 8th grade science teacher, he is now an academic coach for the middle school team at Hampstead Hill Academy. Additionally, he is the Director of the Hampstead Hill Players who perform musicals (this year, they performed Legally Blonde Jr., which premiered two weeks after our wedding).

Links
The Maryland Theatre
Celebrations Catering
28 South
SAD Brunch
Charm City Trivia
Stanlion Clothier
Studio Darius Floristry
DJ Tezrah
Omar Zeta Photography
Borden Transportation

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics


On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!

Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I'll guide you through the crucial tasks that define the last steps of your planning journey. As you approach the last three months before your wedding day, discover the essential tasks to bring your vision to life. 
From perfecting your Wedding Day Schedule to the intricate details of your Ceremony Layout, circling back with your vendors, and ensuring a smooth rehearsal, this episode guides you through finalizing every element to ensure a celebration that truly reflects you and your partner. 
Join me as we wrap up your wedding planning journey, equipping you with the insights and tools needed for these last, vital steps. Whether you're working with a Month Of Coordinator or steering the ship yourself, let's ensure your wedding day unfolds seamlessly.

Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:

Ad-free, full length episodes

The TBWPP Wedding Planning Resource Center with

Access to 6 mini courses of The Big Wedding Planning Master Class

Wedding Planning Templates and Tools


Topics We Covered

Overview of the Final Phase of Wedding Planning

Perfecting Your Wedding Day Schedule and its significance.

Creating a detailed Ceremony Layout.

Circling back to vendors for final confirmations and adjustments.

Addressing easily forgotten details crucial for the wedding day.

The week of planning wrap-up: final checks and confirmations.

Conducting a productive rehearsal to ensure everyone knows their roles.

The importance of staying organized, clear communication, and using available resources for a seamless wedding day.

Encouragement and support for couples in the home stretch of their wedding planning journey.


Recommended Episode Links For This Phase of Planning
Ep # 392, 'How to Start Wedding Planning: Your First Steps’
Ep #399, 'The Middle Phase of Wedding Planning’
Ep #9 ‘The Wedding Planner’
Ep #322 ‘{Exclusive Audio} The Last Phase of Wedding Planning’
#363 The Wedding Day Schedule - Tips and Tricks
Ep#17 ‘Wedding Day Timeline Part 1 of ‘3
Ep #18 ‘Wedding Day Timeline Part 2 of 3’
Ep #20 ‘Wedding Day Timeline Part 3 of 3’
Ep #320 ‘Wedding Day Transportation Help’
Ep #176 ‘The Ceremony Layout’
Ep #345 ‘Ceremony Wisdom from Celebrity Officiant Clint Hufft’
Ep #370 ‘Wedding Day Emergency Kits, Bathroom Baskets and More’
Ep #318 ‘Rehearsals Are Necessary’

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast is...
Hosted and produced by Michelle Martinez

Music by Steph Altman of Mophonics


On Instagram @thebigweddingplanningpodcast and be sure to use #planthatwedding when posting, so you can get our attention!

Easy to get in touch with. Email us at hello@thebigweddingplanningpodcast.com or Call and leave a message at 415-723-1625 and you might hear your voice on an episode


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices