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

Kevin Dennis
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. 3 HR. AGO

    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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 12/17/2024

    Wedding Rental Tips: Balancing Trends and Timeless Style with Pleasanton Event Rentals

    Planning your wedding can feel overwhelming, but today we’re joined by Josina and Lexi from Pleasanton Event Rentals to simplify the process. From timeless trends to smart rental tips, these industry experts share everything you need to know to balance style and strategy for your big day. Weddings are all about creating beautiful memories, and your event rentals play a big role in setting the scene. Josina and Lexi from Pleasanton Event Rentals bring their expertise to this episode, sharing practical advice on how to make your wedding vision come to life without unnecessary stress. They dive into why doing your homework—like knowing your venue’s requirements and having a clear guest count—is crucial before walking into a rental appointment. With years of experience, they debunk common DIY myths, such as buying and reselling items post-wedding, and explain how renting can save time, money, and headaches. Josina and Lexi also discuss how to strike the perfect balance between trendy and timeless styles. Whether it’s incorporating modern touches like velvet linens or classic elements like etched glassware, they reveal how to elevate your design while keeping it cohesive. Lastly, they share tips on staying confident in your decisions, why splurging on your sweetheart table matters, and how little details, like napkin folds, can make a big impact. If you’re in the midst of planning your big day, you won’t want to miss these game-changing insights from Josina and Lexi. Highlights: The top things to know before starting the event rental process.Common mistakes couples make and how to avoid them.Why DIY rentals can lead to unexpected costs and stress.Balancing trendy styles with timeless designs.Current wedding rental trends, including black-and-white themes and velvet textures.Tips for making your sweetheart table stand out. Have wedding planning questions or looking for more tips? Write in and let us know what you'd like us to cover next! Don’t forget to share this episode with your engaged friends, and subscribe, like, and review our show to keep the advice coming. Get in touch with Josina and Lexi: Website Instagram Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    39 min
  5. 12/10/2024

    A New Segment: Now That I’m Married, How Can I Help Others? Featuring Newlywed Meg Boyd

    Planning a wedding in five months might sound like a whirlwind, but for Meg Boyd, it was a mix of creativity, calm, and unforgettable moments. Let’s learn how she made it happen stress-free. Meg and her husband had initially expected a longer engagement, as their dream venue, the Brazilian Room, was fully booked for nearly two years. But when a rare cancellation opened up a date just five months away, they jumped at the chance. What followed was an exciting, fast-paced planning process that was anything but stressful. In this episode, Meg reflects on how she and her husband tackled the unexpected timeline and turned it into a fun and memorable journey. Thanks to her supportive circle of friends and her clear vision, Meg avoided many of the usual stressors couples face. She made thoughtful decisions that focused on creating a beautiful, comfortable experience for everyone, including her guests. From choosing linens that elevated the space to crafting her own plant-based centerpieces, Meg shares how she personalized her wedding while staying on budget. She also shares how prioritizing her venue and trusting her creative partners made all the difference in keeping the planning process smooth and enjoyable. Meg’s story is proof that even when timelines shift, focusing on what matters most—your love, vision, and guest experience—can lead to a wedding that leaves everyone talking. HighlightsA relaxed engagement phase: Why Meg and her husband took their time before planning.Venue flexibility pays off: How following the Brazilian Room on social media led to a dream date.Personal touches: The story behind Meg’s plant-based centerpieces and her iconic orchid bouquet.Guest experience focus: How considering accessibility and comfort shaped their wedding decisions.Stress-free mindset: Practical tips for keeping calm and making wedding planning enjoyable.Balancing opinions: Navigating family and friends' input while staying true to your vision. Have a wedding question you’d like us to answer? Write in, and we might tackle it in an upcoming episode! Don’t forget to share this episode with someone planning their big day, and be sure to like, subscribe, and leave us a review to help others discover the show. Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    44 min
  6. 12/03/2024

    Creating Unforgettable Weddings with Disney - DJ Chuck Johnson

    What makes Disney weddings so magical, and how can couples create unforgettable guest experiences at their own celebrations? We’re diving into these questions and more with Chuck Johnson, a veteran DJ who brings the Disney touch to weddings across Florida and beyond. Chuck is a seasoned DJ with over 15 years of experience at Disney Fairytale Weddings, joins us to talk about creating unforgettable wedding experiences. From personalized touches to structuring the perfect entertainment flow, Chuck shares valuable tips to make any wedding stand out. He discusses how the guest experience should be front and center, why customizing the day makes all the difference, and how couples can avoid common planning pitfalls. Hint it's not following the trends. Chuck also reveals insider secrets from working at Disney, including the logistics of magical moments like Mickey and Minnie cutting the cake or hosting a wedding at Epcot's Living Seas Lounge. He dives into trends like ditching traditional bouquet tosses and emphasizes the importance of crafting a seamless timeline for the big day. Whether you’re planning a Disney wedding or a backyard ceremony, Chuck’s advice on storytelling and guest-focused events will inspire you to think beyond the ordinary. Plus, he shares a few funny and memorable moments from his career that you won’t want to miss. Tune in for actionable advice, heartfelt stories, and a behind-the-scenes look at what makes weddings truly memorable. HighlightsWhy the guest experience is key to a memorable wedding.Chuck’s favorite personalized wedding moments, including REO Speedwagon’s Bruce Hall debuting an unreleased song.Tips for structuring wedding entertainment to keep the energy flowing all night.The unique logistics of Disney weddings, from character appearances to park restrictions.Trends Chuck is seeing in weddings today, like skipping the bouquet toss and cutting the cake early.Insider tips for couples to personalize their weddings and tell their unique stories. Have questions you’d love answered on the show? Write in and let us know! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help other couples discover these tips. And, of course, share the episode with your friends and family! Get in Touch with Chuck Website Instagram Facebook Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    48 min
  7. 11/26/2024

    Our Listeners Ask: Is It Too Soon to Start Wedding Planning & How to Ask Family for Financial Help? And more...

    Today, we’re diving into real questions from our listeners about wedding planning. From when to start planning to guest list dilemmas and vendor booking tips, we’re covering it all! In this episode, August and I tackle the questions sent in by our listeners, offering practical advice and insights based on our years in the wedding industry. We start by discussing how early is too early to start planning and what key decisions need to be made first to set a solid foundation. Next, we share tips on simplifying bridal parties and why it's perfectly okay to have a smaller or unconventional setup. We also address a common challenge: managing guest lists and deciding on inviting kids or allowing plus-ones. If you’re in the final weeks of planning and feeling stressed, we've got strategies to help you stay organized and avoid last-minute anxiety. And for those unsure about how to approach financial help from family, we offer ways to navigate that conversation gracefully. Lastly, we touch on when to send out save-the-dates and invitations, breaking down the ideal timeline to keep everything on track. HighlightsHow early is too early to start planning your wedding?Simplifying your bridal party while keeping it meaningful.Managing guest list choices: kids and plus-ones.Best practices for staying stress-free in the final weeks.How to ask for financial help from family without it being awkward.Timeline for sending out save-the-dates and invitations. Got more wedding questions for us? Send them to podcast@fantasysound.com, and we might answer yours in a future episode. Remember to like, subscribe, and share! Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    34 min
  8. 11/19/2024

    Finding the Right Photographer: Making Sure Your Photos Feel Like You with Adam Suguitan

    Today, we’re diving into why hiring the right photographer is so much more than just getting good photos. I’m joined by Adam Suguitan from Adam’s Point of View, who shares his unique approach to making couples feel comfortable and capturing authentic moments. Capturing authentic wedding moments takes more than technical skill—it requires connection and adaptability. Adam shares how he prioritizes building relationships with couples from the start, using engagement shoots as an opportunity to ease nerves and foster trust. This preparation ensures that when the big day arrives, everyone feels at ease, and genuine, joyful moments can be captured effortlessly. Adam also touches on the importance of maintaining a calm, steady presence during unexpected wedding day challenges. Whether it’s an overbearing guest or a change in weather, his years of experience help him guide couples smoothly through any hiccup, making sure the day remains stress-free. He emphasizes that creating a comfortable environment makes the difference between posed photos and images that truly reflect a couple’s personality. With relatable anecdotes and professional insight, Adam’s advice centers around trust, communication, and a touch of humor to keep things light and fun. Adam’s personal experience as both a photographer and a groom himself brings a unique perspective to what couples should expect and prioritize. His reminder? Show up, trust your team, and enjoy the day—it goes by faster than you think. Highlights -Adam’s approach to building trust through engagement shoots. -Tips for making couples feel comfortable and capturing genuine moments. -The importance of having a calm, professional presence on the wedding day. -How Adam handles unexpected situations, from weather to “wedding paparazzi.” -Stories from Adam’s own wedding and how it influenced his work. -Why choosing a photographer who aligns with your personality is essential. Enjoyed this episode? Share it with friends, subscribe to the podcast, and send us your questions or wedding stories! We love hearing from you. Don’t forget to like and follow for more tips and fun discussions on wedding planning. Get in Touch with Adam Website Instagram Get in Touch with Kevin: Wedding IQ Fantasy Sound Instagram Youtube TikTok

    46 min

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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