Episodes

  • Meet The Wedding Pro - Kamryn Hesington with Gracie's Bridal
    Dec 19 2024

    Discover the secrets to a seamless wedding dress shopping experience with our special guest, Kamryn from Gracie's Bridal. Kamryn offers insider tips on navigating the world of bridal fashion, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead and understanding current trends. From accommodating size inclusivity with gowns ranging from 0 to 32W, to offering flexible appointment scheduling, Gracie’s Bridal ensures every bride feels confident and stunning on her special day.

    Join us as we explore the thrilling journey of finding your dream dress, with Kamryn shedding light on how modern brides are breaking tradition by opting for unconventional styles and colors. We discuss the transformative role of bridal consultants who make the shopping experience memorable, treating each bride like family. Learn about the shift in the bridal color palette that goes beyond the classic white to include elegant tones like ivory, champagne, and even bold black gowns.

    We wrap up the episode with a peek into the latest bridal trends, from versatile reception dresses to the nostalgic return of 90s fashion elements. Kamryn shares their commitment to expanding modest bridal options and highlights accessories that complete the bridal ensemble, like the innovative Boomba bra cups. With practical advice on utilizing resources like Pinterest and TikTok for inspiration, and insights on current appointment scheduling, this episode is packed with everything you need to know to make your wedding dress shopping memorable and unique.

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    33 mins
  • Meet The Wedding Pro - Luisa Smith with Cornerstone Fine Jewelry
    Dec 4 2024

    Luisa Smith of Cornerstone Fine Jewelry, is our guest this episode, sharing her inspiration and what makes what they do so meaningful. Discover the transformation story as Luisa and her husband expand their store's capabilities and relocate to a spacious new venue on South Campbell Avenue. We delve into their exciting new offerings, including a skilled watchmaker providing in-house watch repair services, which meet a significant local demand.

    Join us as we explore the captivating world of custom jewelry design at Cornerstone Fine Jewelry. Learn how Luisa and her team turn heirloom pieces into personalized treasures that honor family legacies while embracing modern styles. From nature-inspired emerald rings to striking art deco necklaces, experience the artistry and personal connections nurtured in each bespoke piece, allowing customers to express their unique identities through beautifully crafted jewelry.

    In this episode, we also navigate the evolving landscape of wedding bands and engagement jewelry trends. Uncover the allure of unconventional materials like meteorite and Damascus steel, offering a way to wear meaningful pieces with personal stories. We also highlight the growing popularity of alternative stones and lab-grown diamonds, reflecting a shift in traditional engagement jewelry preferences. Celebrate choice and personalization as we discuss the diverse options available for modern weddings, from custom-engraved watches to permanent jewelry for memorable bridal showers.

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    36 mins
  • Meet The Wedding Pro - Sarah with Cassidy Station
    Dec 3 2024

    Sarah Hogendorn, the visionary creative director behind Cassidy Station, sits down with us to unveil the captivating story of this unique event venue. With its roots as a family farmstead dating back to 1872, Cassidy Station has blossomed into a multifaceted space that embodies the charm and spirit of Ozark culture. Picture a place where you can wander through a mercantile stocked with American-made treasures, many crafted by women-owned businesses and local artisans. Sarah paints a vivid picture of how this venue, complete with antique trucks and tractors, serves as a living homage to both its agricultural past and the community’s vibrant present.

    Put your imagination to work as Sarah guides us through the enchanting flexibility that makes Cassidy Station a dream wedding venue. Couples find themselves immersed in a storybook setting, free to personalize their day across spaces like the patio, courtyard, and hay barn, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Beyond the weddings, Sarah shares the venue’s mission to preserve Cassidy’s historical roots while fostering an environment for creating cherished family memories. This episode promises a journey through the heart of Missouri's rich history, emphasizing the importance of green spaces and highlighting the community's efforts to resist commercial encroachment, ensuring Cassidy Station remains a cherished local gem.

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    30 mins
  • Meet The Wedding Pro - Hannah Diemer with The Dress Bridal
    Oct 31 2024

    Uncover the secrets to a blissful bridal shopping experience with insights from Hannah Diemer, owner of The Dress Bridal in Springfield, Missouri. Hannah shares her expert advice on making each bride feel like the star of the show, with tips on how to craft an intimate and personalized shopping environment. Discover why Hannah recommends starting the dress hunt a year to a year and a half before the big day, and learn how to simplify the decision-making process by trusting your instincts. Whether you're a bride-to-be or simply interested in the bridal industry, you'll gain valuable perspectives on creating memorable moments that last a lifetime.

    We also venture into the evolving world of wedding planning, exploring the dual role of Pinterest as both a muse and a potential pitfall for brides. With Hannah's guidance, we discuss how to turn a bride's vision into reality, starting from a simple, personalized concept. From bridal accessories to bachelorette party essentials, including the Dress Bachelorette e-commerce line, there's something for every aspect of the pre-wedding journey. Plus, get the inside scoop on the best bachelorette destinations and the shift towards unique, personalized weddings in 2024. Whether it's off-the-rack solutions or full-service alterations, Hannah's boutique offers it all, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

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    33 mins
  • Meet The Weddig Pro - Julie Davison of Davison Visuals
    Oct 9 2024

    Discover the magic behind wedding photography with Julie Davison of Davison Visuals. Julie shares how her unique "editorially candid" style captures genuine moments with emotional depth through the artful use of shadows and vibrant colors—steering clear of those washed-out trends. Picture yourself in the midst of those delightful events where Julie's creativity shines, from capturing spontaneous dance floor antics to crafting memorable shots while guests are seated for dinner.

    Learn the secret to building effortless connections between couples and their photographer, as Julie reveals insights from her boudoir photography days. With humor and thoughtful prompts, she eases any camera-shy nerves, ensuring comfort and authenticity. Together with her partner CJ, they form a dream team that coordinates seamlessly, backed by open communication and even walkie-talkies, to capture the perfect wedding story. Listen to anecdotes of heartwarming family interactions, and understand the importance of communication to create a harmonious atmosphere amidst the wedding hustle.

    Immerse yourself in the energetic and fun consultation process with Julie, where mutual likability is key. From initial phone calls to engagement sessions, Julie’s infectious personality and flexible approach to creativity shine through. She discusses the value of printed albums as timeless heirlooms and shares tidbits about her favorite photography equipment without ever losing that bubbly charm. If you're a fan of wedding stories or a bride- or groom-to-be, this episode is brimming with insights and inspiration that remind us of the significance of capturing life's treasured moments.

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    28 mins
  • Meet The Wedding Pro - Charity Fent of Charity Fent Cake Design
    Sep 23 2024

    Do you ever wonder what it takes to create a cake that’s not just delicious, but also a stunning work of art? Join us as we welcome Charity Fent, the genius behind Charity Fent Cake Design, who has spent the last 15 years crafting thousands of custom cakes that delight the eyes and taste buds. Charity opens up about her journey, the challenges of running a bakery with ever-changing decor, and how she’s turned her whimsical space into a one-stop shop for all party essentials. From cookies and cupcakes to full-blown custom cakes, she’s done it all while keeping her magical bakery atmosphere Instagram-worthy and inviting.

    Charity doesn’t just follow trends; she sets them. Tune in as we explore the world of dessert bars and cake trends with Charity, covering everything from palette knife cakes to semi-naked cakes, and even the revival of old-style piping inspired by celebrity weddings. Charity’s adaptability and meticulous attention to detail shine through, proving that each cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a personalized, edible piece of art. Learn how she manages to stay ahead of the trends and ensure every cake aligns with her clients' visions, even when it pushes her out of her comfort zone.

    Practicality also has its place in the world of stunning cakes. Listen as we discuss the logistics of wedding cake choices and delivery with Charity, who shares invaluable advice on how to accommodate different budgets without compromising look or taste. We wrap up with a candid, light-hearted chat among the hosts, filled with humorous anecdotes and personal insights that you won’t want to miss. This episode is packed with creativity, passion, and expert tips from the queen of cakes herself, Charity Fent.

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    35 mins
  • Meet The Wedding Pro - Amanda with Eventful Rental
    Apr 26 2024

    Ever dreamt of a wedding where every detail embodies perfection without the nightmare of post-event clutter and wallet woes? That's the vision Amanda from Eventful Rental brings to life as she walks us through the ins and outs of wedding rentals. On our show, Amanda opens up about the growth of her inventory, from thrift store gems to unique finds from going-out-of-business sales, all to ensure your special day is nothing short of magical. She passionately discusses the practicality and savings that come with renting, and the joy of helping couples realize their wedding day dreams without the burden of hefty price tags and one-time use items.

    This episode isn't just about saying 'I do' to rentals for the big day; we're broadening the horizon to all kinds of events that need a splash of style and convenience. From the grandeur of over 200 linen colors to the necessity of luxe restroom trailers that redefine outdoor event elegance, Amanda covers it all. We'll whisk you away to a world where your event can be tailor-fit with everything from whimsical LED trees to practical temperature control solutions, ensuring your guests revel in comfort and style. And for those with a penchant for the unique, we reveal the quirky side of the rental biz with fake food displays and bouncy houses that promise to leave an indelible mark on your celebration. Join us for this fascinating trek through the wonders of event rentals, where Amanda's expertise shines a spotlight on the seamless blend of fun and functionality.

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    43 mins
  • Meet The Wedding Pro - Ryan and Bethany with Alpha Lit Springfield
    Apr 26 2024

    Step into the bright world of marquee magic with Ryan and Bethany, the new torchbearers of Alpha Lit Springfield, as they take us on an illuminating journey. Discover the electrifying charm of light-up letters that turn any event into a conversation piece. From the warmth of a wedding day to the whimsy of a surprise message, these two have mastered the craft of making moments shine.

    Listen closely as we unravel the strings (and cords) of event décor, offering a peek into the meticulous organization and technical know-how required to bring these glowing characters to life. Whether it's ensuring each letter shines bright or sharing a laugh about potential marquee mischief, our chat with this entrepreneurial pair goes beyond the bulbs. It's a lesson in logistics, creativity, and the occasional light-hearted prank that keeps the business glowing.

    Wrapping up with a spectrum of color, Ryan and Bethany shine a light on how choosing the right hue can set the stage for an unforgettable night. They emphasize the importance of planning ahead to snag these popular pieces, blending practical advice with vibrant storytelling that will have you seeing your special day in a whole new light. So get ready to be inspired, as this episode promises to brighten your perspective on event planning and decoration.

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    30 mins