Now That I'm Engaged, How Do I Get Married

Kevin Dennis
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Now That I'm Engaged, How Do I Get Married

Created for newly engaged couples, Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married? Provides soonlyweds with everything they need to navigate their wedding planning journey easily. Kevin Dennis, host, and owner of Livermore-based lighting and A/V company Fantasy Sound Event Services, invites wedding professionals from across the industry to share their tips and advice on smart wedding planning (and what not to do!). Tune in each week to learn everything from budgeting and booking vendors, overcoming guest drama, and timing your plans for the big day.

  1. FEB 18

    Why Your Wedding Officiant Matters More Than You Think | Chris Thielen

    A lot of couples think having a friend or family member officiate their wedding is a great idea—until the big day turns into a total disaster. From awkward silences to forgotten lines, things can go off the rails fast. That’s why we’re bringing in Chris Thielen, an experienced wedding officiant, to talk about what actually makes a ceremony special and how to avoid a cringe-worthy moment at the altar. When it comes to wedding planning, most couples focus on the venue, the dress, and the party—but what about the ceremony itself? The person officiating your wedding plays a much bigger role than you might think. Chris Thielen has been officiating weddings for over 25 years, and he’s seen it all. From flawless, heartfelt ceremonies to absolute train wrecks, he knows what makes a wedding day run smoothly and what can turn it into an unforgettable (for the wrong reasons) experience. Chris explains why hiring a professional officiant is worth it, especially when compared to having a friend or family member handle the ceremony. While it may seem like a sweet, personal touch, it often leads to stress, forgotten lines, and uncomfortable moments. He shares his best tips for making sure your ceremony reflects your personality and doesn’t feel like a generic script being read off a piece of paper. We also dive into what an officiant actually does, from helping you with your marriage license to making sure the ceremony runs seamlessly. Chris shares the most common mistakes couples make when planning their wedding and how to avoid unnecessary stress leading up to the big day. Plus, if you think the ceremony is just a short moment before the party starts, Chris might just change your mind. A well-done ceremony isn’t just about making it legal—it’s about setting the tone for the entire day and making sure your guests feel just as connected to your story as you do. Episode Highlights:The biggest mistakes couples make when choosing an officiantWhy asking a friend or family member to officiate can be riskyHow to make sure your ceremony feels personal and engagingThe little details most couples forget that can lead to awkward momentsWhy your officiant needs to be comfortable speaking in front of a crowdThe importance of working with vendors who understand your vision Got a wedding planning question? We’d love to help! Send us your biggest wedding dilemmas, and we might answer them on a future episode. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—plus, share this episode with someone who’s in the middle of wedding planning! Get in Touch with Chris: Website Instagram Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    51 min

  2. FEB 4

    The Ultimate Venue Checklist: Questions Couples Forget to Ask

    Finding the perfect wedding venue isn’t just about the aesthetics—it’s about ensuring every detail aligns with your vision for the big day. Carly Martinez shares insider tips to help you navigate the process like a pro. When it comes to wedding planning, your venue is one of the most significant choices you’ll make. Carly has nearly a decade of experience at Beets Hospitality Group, and joins us to share everything couples need to know to make their venue search seamless and stress-free. From understanding what’s included in a venue package to navigating contracts and policies, Carly offers practical advice that every couple needs to hear. She explains the importance of working with venues that match your priorities—whether it’s a foodie-approved menu or a layout perfect for dancing the night away. Carly also dives into surprising questions couples often forget to ask, like parking logistics and exclusivity policies, and why asking these upfront can save you headaches later. She emphasizes the importance of leaning on your venue's expertise to customize your wedding vision while respecting their policies. Whether you’re torn between venues or just starting your search, Carly’s insights will help you focus on what truly matters—creating a memorable, stress-free day for you and your loved ones. HighlightsWhy inclusions matter: What to ask about packages and pricing upfront.Surprising venue policies and how they might impact your wedding day.Creative alternatives to trending wedding ideas like champagne towers and sparklers.Tips for customizing your wedding vision while respecting venue policies.Questions couples often forget to ask during venue tours.Why parking logistics and shuttling can make or break your guests’ experience. Got a wedding planning question? Write in, and we might feature it in a future episode! Don’t forget to share this episode, like, and subscribe for more practical advice to make your big day unforgettable. Get in Touch with Carly: Website Facebook Instagram Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    32 min

  3. JAN 28

    How to Find Your Dream Wedding Vendors with Bri Marbais

    How do you find wedding vendors who truly get your vision? Bri Marbais shares her expert advice for making your vendor choices stress-free and successful. When it comes to planning a wedding, finding the right vendors can feel overwhelming. That’s why I invited Bri, a seasoned industry professional and bride-to-be herself, to share her insider knowledge. Bri brings her expertise as a hospitality graduate, former venue manager, and current vendor guide with Wedding Venue Map, making her the perfect resource for couples navigating the vendor selection process. Bri’s advice starts with a simple but powerful suggestion: ask your friends. They’ve been through it and can point you toward vendors they loved (or warn you about the ones to avoid). From there, she recommends exploring local resources and online platforms like The Knot and WeddingWire but cautions against relying solely on listings—dig deeper into tagged social media photos and reviews. Preferred vendor lists also get a big thumbs-up from Bri. These vendors know the venue and can save you stress and guesswork. She also stresses the importance of meeting vendors before signing contracts, whether through Zoom, coffee chats, or in-person venue tours. Building a relationship ensures that you’ll feel comfortable working together for months. Lastly, Bri touches on communication, sharing how couples can set expectations upfront to avoid frustration. From email preferences to response times, clear communication is the key to a smooth planning process. Highlights: How tapping into your friend group can make vendor research easier.Why preferred vendor lists are a goldmine for trusted recommendations.The red flags to watch for in vendor reviews and how to interpret them.The importance of meeting vendors in person or virtually before booking.Why tagged photos on social media often tell a better story than curated feeds.Setting communication expectations to avoid wedding planning stress. Have wedding planning questions? We'd love to help! Write in with your questions, and we might answer them in an upcoming episode. Don’t forget to share this episode with other engaged couples, and hit like, subscribe, and review on your favorite podcast platform. Get in Touch with Bri Website Facebook Instagram Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    36 min

  4. JAN 21

    Serving Under Pressure: How Caterers Handle the Unexpected | Dawn Deardorf

    Curious how wedding caterers handle the unexpected? From power outages to last-minute guest surprises, Dawn Deardorf of Aurora Catering shares how her team transforms chaos into seamless celebrations. Dawn the co-owner of Aurora Catering, joins us to talk about the intricate dance of wedding catering. From handling unexpected challenges to accommodating unique requests, Dawn offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to ensure every wedding is a success. Starting her business during the 2008 recession, Dawn has weathered it all—from wildfires to last-minute dietary surprises—and learned how to pivot under pressure. She shares tips for couples on how honesty and planning can make a big difference in a caterer’s ability to deliver a flawless experience. We dive into the challenges of catering without a proper kitchen, the importance of clear communication with other vendors, and how site visits and thorough preparation can save the day. Dawn also opens up about her favorite moments, including creating a six-foot charcuterie board that wowed a bride and her guests. Whether it’s managing timelines or dealing with dietary restrictions, Dawn emphasizes that choosing experienced vendors who know how to adapt is key to ensuring a stress-free wedding day. Highlights: How Dawn’s catering business began during the 2008 recession and thrived through the pandemic.The importance of honesty about guest counts and dietary restrictions.Managing unexpected challenges, from power outages to last-minute dietary needs.The role of teamwork and communication among vendors in creating a seamless event.Unique catering requests, like family recipes and Pinterest-worthy charcuterie boards.Why site visits and pre-event preparation are essential for success. Have a wedding question you’d like us to answer? Email us at podcasts@fantasysound.com or visit our website to ask directly! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share the podcast with your friends. Your reviews help us grow and bring you more valuable wedding insights! Get in Touch with Dawn: Website Facebook Instagram  Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    37 min

  5. JAN 14

    Wedding Curveballs: How DJs Save the Day

    What happens when things don’t go as planned on a wedding day? My cohost and Fantasy Sound brand manager, August Yocher, takes over the mic to interview our incredible DJs—Norman Anub, Glen Riggs, and me, Kevin Dennis—as we share our wildest wedding day saves and tips for avoiding disaster. Weddings rarely go off without a hitch, and that’s where an experienced DJ becomes your secret weapon. In this episode, my cohost and Fantasy Sound brand manager, August Yocher, steps in to interview Norman, Glen, and me about some of the most unexpected curveballs we’ve faced on the job and how we managed to save the day. We cover everything from blown circuits caused by espresso bars to last-minute ceremony relocations due to extreme heat. Glen recounts a chaotic moment when the power went out mid-reception, while Norman shares how he saved a toppling wedding cake just in time. August keeps the conversation lively, asking about our strategies for handling unplanned speeches, drunk guests, and even the occasional missing vendor. I share a story about stepping in as an officiant when one didn’t show up, proving that flexibility is key in the wedding business. Throughout the discussion, we highlight how professionalism, teamwork, and a little humor can turn potential disasters into unforgettable moments for our couples. HighlightsGlen’s quick thinking during a venue-wide power outage caused by an espresso barNorman’s nail-biting moment saving a toppling wedding cakeKevin stepping in as an officiant when the hired officiant didn’t showUnplanned speeches, drunk guests, and how DJs keep things under controlThe infamous pot roast walk and how it became a touching wedding memory Have a wedding question you’d like us to tackle? Email us at podcasts@fantasysound.com! Whether you’re planning your big day or helping a loved one, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share the show with fellow couples and wedding enthusiasts. Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    52 min

  6. JAN 7

    Behind the Scenes: Keeping Your Wedding Safe and Stress-Free

    Ever thought about the safety measures at your wedding venue? Maggie from the Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina shares surprising tips to keep your celebration stress-free and secure. When it comes to weddings, safety often takes a back seat to décor and logistics. Maggie from the Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina reminds us why it shouldn’t. From her early days navigating earthquake protocols at Paramount Pictures to her current role managing wedding venues, Maggie has seen it all. We discussed why fire safety and evacuation plans are crucial, especially for venues in areas prone to wildfires. Maggie shared how couples can prepare for unexpected emergencies, from having water stations during heatwaves to accounting for elderly guests’ comfort. One surprising tip? Always look for the exits when touring a venue. It’s a small habit that could make a big difference in a critical moment. Maggie also highlighted the importance of catering safety, from managing food allergies to ensuring proper staff training. Finally, we dove into real-life stories, including one involving a guest and an unexpected edible. Maggie’s ability to handle emergencies with calm professionalism left us all with valuable lessons. HighlightsWhy fire safety and evacuation plans are essential for wedding venuesHow to ensure your venue can handle heat-related emergenciesThe importance of water stations and shaded areas for guestsWhat couples should ask venues about safety certifications and staff trainingReal-life safety incidents and how Maggie handled them seamlesslyWhy hiring an EMT for your wedding day is worth every penny  We’d love to hear from you! Got wedding planning questions? Send them our way, and we might answer them in an upcoming episode. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with friends. Get in Touch with Maggie: Website Instagram Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    38 min

  7. 12/31/2024

    Wrapping Up 2024: Wedding Trends, Tips, and Favorite Moments

    What a year it’s been! August and I are taking a look back at our favorite moments, key takeaways, and all the fun we've had with our amazing guests in 2024. As we close out 2024, August and I reflect on some of the most memorable moments from this season. From heartfelt conversations about managing wedding stress with Brady Flores to the practical yet fun insights from Ginger of The Flower House, this year was packed with valuable advice and unforgettable guest appearances. We dove into unique topics like courthouse weddings with Jen from Weirdo Wedding Photography and brought on industry pros like Chuck to reveal the magic (and logistics!) of Disney weddings. Whether it was kids at weddings or incorporating pets into your big day, our discussions brought new perspectives and plenty of laughs. This year also introduced new segments, like hearing from recent brides like August’s friend Meg, and answering listener questions. These episodes highlighted the challenges and triumphs of wedding planning, offering practical tips for couples navigating this exciting time. And of course, we shared our own personal favorites, behind-the-scenes stories, and moments that made us laugh, cry, and appreciate the joy of weddings all over again. Highlights: The cutest episode ever: Kids at weddings through a 10-year-old’s eyes.Real talk about DIY wedding pitfalls with Ginger from The Flower House.Practical tips for bringing your furry friends to your big day with Veronica from Pawfect4U.How courthouse weddings can be just as magical as grand celebrations, with Jen.Insights from Disney DJ Chuck about creating a seamless and magical guest experience.Reliving listener-favorite episodes and why they resonated with so many. Have wedding questions you’d like us to answer? Email us at podcast@fantasysound.com or send us a DM on Instagram! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share the show with friends—it’s the best way to help more couples plan their perfect day. Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    40 min

  8. 12/24/2024

    Saturday Weddings: Overrated or Just Tradition?

    Weddings don’t have to stick to the traditional Saturday schedule! Ann Ogden from Wente Vineyards shares why midweek weddings are becoming the new go-to option for couples and how they’re redefining what a perfect wedding day can look like. Ann Ogden, the director of sales at Wente Vineyards, joins us to chat about why couples are moving away from traditional Saturday weddings. With over 25 years of experience at Wente, Ann knows firsthand how midweek weddings can offer a more relaxed, intimate experience for everyone involved. Midweek weddings aren’t just convenient; they can also save couples money and give their guests a mini-vacation vibe. Ann dives into how weekday celebrations open up availability with vendors, create unique opportunities for customization, and even bring unexpected perks like more time to enjoy with loved ones. From stunning outdoor ceremonies to intimate dinners in Wente’s sandstone caves, Ann explains how couples can take advantage of midweek dates to craft a wedding experience that feels both special and stress-free. Plus, she shares insights on trends like smaller guest lists, foodie-focused receptions, and creative ways to make the most of a wedding budget. Whether you’re just starting your wedding planning journey or considering a midweek celebration, Ann’s tips and expertise might just inspire you to rethink your big day! Episode Highlights:Why Saturday weddings are losing their charm for many couplesThe benefits of choosing a weekday wedding, including cost savings and guest convenienceHow midweek weddings allow for intimate, customized experiencesExamples of unique options for weekday ceremonies and receptions at Wente VineyardsTips for couples hesitant to move away from traditional wedding datesCreative ways to use savings from midweek weddings to enhance the big day Have a wedding planning question you want us to answer? We’d love to hear from you! Write in and let us know what’s on your mind. Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode with someone who’s planning their wedding. We’re here to help make the journey to your big day as smooth as possible! Get in Touch with Ann: Website Email Phone- 925-456-2441 Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    35 min
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About

Created for newly engaged couples, Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married? Provides soonlyweds with everything they need to navigate their wedding planning journey easily. Kevin Dennis, host, and owner of Livermore-based lighting and A/V company Fantasy Sound Event Services, invites wedding professionals from across the industry to share their tips and advice on smart wedding planning (and what not to do!). Tune in each week to learn everything from budgeting and booking vendors, overcoming guest drama, and timing your plans for the big day.

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