Whispers to a Bride: Emotional Insight for your Wedding Drama

Kara Ghassabeh
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Welcome to Whispers to a Bride where we address the emotional aspects of getting married so you can navigate the stress and drama with grace and ease. This podcast talks about what it means to be a bride and how it impacts your identity and your closest relationships. You will learn how to prepare mentally and emotionally not only for your wedding day but for your married life as well. Kara Maureen is a Bridal Coach and Therapist who helps brides solve wedding drama with grace. Connect with Kara: On Instagram: @karaghassabeh Find out how to work with Kara at https://karamaureen.com

  1. 2D AGO

    Episode 222: Guest Lists and Guilt

    In this episode, we delve into the complex world of wedding guest lists, a topic that often stirs up a myriad of emotions and challenges for couples. I address the common frictions that arise when planning a guest list, navigating issues of belonging, hierarchy, loyalty, financial considerations, and the intricate power dynamics at play. These concerns are not superficial; they deeply affect couples, leading to everything from tension to outright conflict. If you find yourself grappling with your guest list, know that you're not alone, and this struggle is a shared experience among couples everywhere. What you’ll learn from this episode: Wedding guest list challenges The B-List Dilemma Addressing hurt feelings Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1

    18 min

  2. FEB 4 · BONUS

    Rebroadcast: You are Not Your Wedding

    Weddings can be a whirlwind of emotions, and it's important to navigate them with self-awareness and self-compassion. While it's natural to pour our hearts and souls into making our wedding personalized and unique, we must remember that it is just one day in our lives and should not define our entire being. In this episode, we discuss how it's okay to look back on our wedding and realize that maybe we would have done things differently. This doesn't mean we made a mistake or messed up; it's a natural part of the learning process. Weddings offer us an opportunity to explore different themes in our lives and learn more about ourselves. What you’ll learn from this episode: Over identifying with your wedding Celebrating the beauty of your wedding Finding balance Why being a guest at a wedding can help you have a deeper understanding of what goes into it Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1

    14 min

  3. JAN 28

    Episode 221: The Fundamental Attribution Error

    In this episode, I delve into the concept of the Fundamental Attribution Error, a psychological phenomenon that plays a significant role in the dynamics of romantic relationships, particularly during high-stress situations such as wedding planning. The fundamental attribution error occurs when we attribute our partner’s behaviors to their character while attributing our own behaviors to external circumstances. This discrepancy fosters a barrier to empathy and warmth, which can silently erode the foundation of goodwill in a relationship. Throughout the episode, I advocate for ongoing reflection on these patterns in everyday life and in interactions with others, as the fundamental attribution error exists in many relational contexts beyond romantic partnerships. By cultivating awareness of this cognitive bias, couples can build stronger connections, uphold the humanity in each other, and maintain the love that initially brought them together. What you’ll learn from this episode: Understanding behavioral mismatches The impact of stress on relationships Cultivating curiosity and embracing nuance Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1

    15 min

  4. JAN 21

    Episode 220: Wedding Body

    In this episode, we delve back into an ongoing conversation about body image, particularly in the context of weddings. It’s fascinating how the process of preparing for this monumental day can turn one's body into a project that demands attention and scrutiny. This episode seeks to unpack the layers behind the common experience of brides feeling pressured to conform to certain body ideals as they stand on the brink of marriage. This episode isn’t just about unveiling difficult truths; it’s ultimately an invitation towards radical acceptance. I discuss how the complexities of body image can intensify during such high-stakes times, encouraging brides to seek support when feelings of anxiety arise—whether from loved ones, therapists, or coaches—integrating compassion into their self-care routines. What you’ll learn from this episode: How your body responds to stress Nourishing your body Loving your wedding body Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1

    17 min

  5. JAN 14

    Episode  219: Why You Are Over Budget

    In this episode, we delve into the complex relationship between budgeting for weddings and the psychological pressures faced by brides-to-be. I unravel the emotional landscape of wedding planning, especially during a time when financial considerations can turn exhilarating moments into overwhelming stressors. It’s essential to acknowledge that spending often exceeds initial budgets, and I aim to shed light on the reasons why this phenomenon is common, particularly in the traditionally female-oriented narratives surrounding weddings. The episode not only examines the emotional toll of planning but also underscores the need for introspection prior to engaging with external influences. I encourage listeners to ground themselves in their values before embarking on this journey of planning. By refocusing on what truly matters to them rather than succumbing to societal pressures, brides can foster a clearer, more confident sense of direction in decision-making. What you’ll learn from this episode: Identity vulnerability and wedding choices Finding your values as a bride Integration over perfection Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1

    14 min

  6. JAN 7

    Episode 218: Care Enough But Not Too Much

    In this episode, we delve into the delicate balance between investing emotionally in the wedding day and maintaining a sense of equanimity amidst the pressures that arise. We explore the various stresses that come with organizing a wedding—from financial implications to societal expectations. Brides often carry the dual pressures of creating a memorable experience while managing the emotions of their families and friends, and the toll can be overwhelming. We dissect the challenges brides face, touching on the dual narratives of deep care and the risk of over-identification with the event's success. How can one cultivate presence and joy in these moments without spiraling into anxiety or regret? What you’ll learn from this episode: The dangers of over-attachment Shifting focus from outcome to values Balancing caring and letting go Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1

    16 min

  7. 12/31/2025 · BONUS

    Rebroadcast: Worse Case Scenarios

    In this episode, I delve into the often unspoken fears surrounding wedding planning, focusing specifically on the concept of worst-case scenarios. After reflecting on a recent conversation with a bride, it struck me how commonly these worries manifest, creating an atmosphere of anxiety and stress for those preparing for what should be a joyous occasion. From concerns about unpredictable weather to familial tensions, the anxiety surrounding a wedding can lead to excessive spending and compulsive planning, detracting from the excitement of the event. Walking through the worst-case scenarios allows us to strip away the layers of fear. What do you do if it rains? You create a backup plan. What happens if emotions run high on the big day? You learn to embrace those feelings instead of fearing them. This practice doesn't just mitigate anxiety; it fosters a sense of strength and stability as you prepare for one of life's most significant milestones. What you’ll learn from this episode: Confronting wedding day anxieties Turning toward anxiety Embracing solutions Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1

    9 min

  8. 12/24/2025 · BONUS

    Rebroadcast: Let it be Easy

    In this episode, I dive into the powerful concept of allowing life to be easy, encapsulated in the mantra, "Let It Be Easy." The essence of this discussion stems from a realization that many of us, despite our intrinsic understanding that ease exists, become tangled in complexities and self-imposed pressures that obscure this truth. This conversation serves as a gentle reminder of the simplicity we can invite into our lives, particularly during challenging times such as wedding planning. Ultimately, I invite everyone to ask themselves how they can let life be easier, whether that means leveraging technology or tapping into community resources. There is significant empowerment in rethinking the traditional narratives of hard work; embracing ease is not just a luxury but a necessity for a more balanced and joyful life. What you’ll learn from this episode: Challenging old beliefs Rethinking hard work Embracing community connections eatured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1

    13 min
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4.9
out of 5
42 Ratings

About

Welcome to Whispers to a Bride where we address the emotional aspects of getting married so you can navigate the stress and drama with grace and ease. This podcast talks about what it means to be a bride and how it impacts your identity and your closest relationships. You will learn how to prepare mentally and emotionally not only for your wedding day but for your married life as well. Kara Maureen is a Bridal Coach and Therapist who helps brides solve wedding drama with grace. Connect with Kara: On Instagram: @karaghassabeh Find out how to work with Kara at https://karamaureen.com

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