Stop me if you’ve heard this one..

A bride-to-be excitedly plans an elaborate proposal to her bridesmaids, self-care products in ribbon-secured boxes or personalised tote bags topped off with a card that reads: “Will you be my bridesmaid?”

Within a few short months, there are at least a couple of chat groups to communicate the colour palette the dress code, important dates, and to discuss the bridesmaids’ responsibilities.

If you haven’t said stop yet, let me save you from wondering. This is where, in my mind, I would be screaming STOP.

Does anyone really care anymore?

Should we be wondering what the secret code for bridesmaids is, deciphering it, working around it, trying desperately not to upset the bride OR can we agree that the social circumstances, the world and our needs have changed and we have more demands and commitments in our own lives than ever before so is it in our best interests to continue the bride/bridesmaid dance.

What is reasonable to expect in 2025, and do you even want or can afford to be in their I DO Crew?

Today, I’m talking about the past, the present and what I believe, should be the future of bridesmaids and groomsmen.

Let’s get down to brass tacks and work out what bridal party traditions and expectations are still relevant in this day and age and how to minimise the drama.

RESOURCES

Send Unbridely a 90-second audio message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/unbridelypodcast

*The Unbridely Podcast is sponsored by its listeners. When you purchase products or services through links on our website or via the podcast, we may earn an affiliate commission.*

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This episode of the Unbridely Modern Wedding Planning Podcast is brought to you by Easy Name Change.

You simply choose which companies you need to notify, and they send you detailed process instructions for each of your companies, plus ready to send forms, letters, and emails, so you just attach your marriage certificate to them and you're done!

More info on how to change your name after you get married: https://unbridely.com/blog/name-change-after-marriage

To get $6 off your name change use the promo code UNBRIDELY6 (valid until the end of 2025)

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Unbridely acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we record this podcast on, the Kaurna People. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unbridely/
or TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unbridely

Email the Unbridely Podcast:
hello@unbridely.com

How do you find that sweet spot between what you want for your wedding and what your family expects?

Is it even possible to create a celebration that feels true to you, without leaving anyone important out, or blowing your budget?

And how many hours drumming at your wedding reception is too much?

Today, I’m yakking it up with Ashley and Tim, a newly-married couple from Maine in the United States who wrestled with those questions and somehow managed to pull off a wedding that was intimate, meaningful, and yet super chill for everyone involved.

From navigating a guest list that doubled overnight, to negotiating with their venue, and finding creative ways to make their dream wedding weekend work for everyone—Ash and Tim have some practical advice and a few hilarious stories about their experiences and how, when you stick to your values and what’s important to you, you can find solutions when at first, it seemed like there weren’t any.

If you’re planning a wedding and feeling stuck between eloping and inviting the masses, on the fence about having a ‘first look’, or if you just want to hear how stunningly beautiful Tim and Ashley’s lakeside inn was, you’re in the right place.

Resources Mentioned:

Ashley & Tim’s Wedding Vendors

Venue, Food & Bar: Wolf Cove Inn

Photographer: Akadia Merles Photography

Videographer: Riley Bridges Media

Florist: Chelsea at Love Letter Farm Flowers

Musicians: Dave & Anna The High Spirits Duo

Live Painter: Black Lilac Studio

Baker: Whisk & Butter Co

Send Unbridely a 90-second audio message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/unbridelypodcast

*The Unbridely Podcast is sponsored by its listeners. When you purchase products or services through links on our website or via the podcast, we may earn an affiliate commission.*

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This episode of the Unbridely Modern Wedding Planning Podcast is brought to you by Never Miss Moments Unbridely's recommended wedding guest photo and video-sharing tool. With your unique QR code, your family and friends can quickly, easily and securely share their snaps with you in your personalised online gallery.

Visit nevermissmoments.com/unbridely to receive your 10% discount off their galleries.

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Unbridely acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we record this podcast on, the Kaurna People. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unbridely/
or TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unbridely

Email the Unbridely Podcast:
hello@unbridely.com

Have you ever been in the middle of a date with someone and noticed some little warning signs; maybe they only talked about themselves, didn’t ask you any questions, or ignored your boundaries. And you thought, “Hmm, that’s a red flag, right there”?

Well, just like in dating, your search for the right wedding vendors can come with its own set of warning signs.

And ignoring those red flags can lead to real headaches like forfeited booking fees, last-minute scrambles when a vendor cancels, or worse—memories that just can’t be replaced if something goes badly wrong.

Today I’m unpacking what those red flags look like when you’re hiring vendors for your big day with a list of the 5 biggest warning signs that I believe you need to be aware of.

You’ll learn how to spot when a vendor is more interested in their own needs than yours, how to protect yourself from unreliable service, and why listening to your gut—just like in dating—can save you from heartache, stress, wasted time and disappointment.

RESOURCES

Send Unbridely a 90-second audio message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/unbridelypodcast

*The Unbridely Podcast is sponsored by its listeners. When you purchase products or services through links on our website or via the podcast, we may earn an affiliate commission.*

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This episode of the Unbridely Modern Wedding Planning Podcast is brought to you by Unbridely’s ebook How To Write Wedding Vows That Don’t Suck

https://unbridely.com/shop/htwwvtds

This is for YOU if you want to write the unique and heartfelt wedding vows your fiancé deserves, but don't know where to start. 🤔

AND want to get it done in 20 minutes or less. 💪

Grab your instant pdf download of the Unbridely ebook 'How To Write Wedding Vows That Don't Suck' for just $27 now! 🧡

https://unbridely.com/shop/htwwvtds

-----

Unbridely acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we record this podcast on, the Kaurna People. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unbridely/
or TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unbridely

Email the Unbridely Podcast:
hello@unbridely.com

Q: What do Star Wars, The Avengers, and modern weddings have in common?

A: Sometimes, one epic event just isn’t enough.

In today’s world of global connections, blended traditions, and evolving expectations, more couples are discovering that a single celebration might not capture everything they want—or everyone they love.

But what does it really mean to have more than one wedding event? And how do you pull it off without feeling like you’re starring in your own Hollywood blockbuster, complete with the blowout budget and on-set dramas?

Today I’m sharing the background, some real-life stories and the reasoning behind this growing trend.

You’ll hear about how modern-day logistics, how we’re choosing to live, study and travel, and even personal and practical drivers have made sequel weddings a necessary and brilliant option for some couples.

So whether you’re struggling to work out how to plan your wedding because you have too many competing priorities, or you’re just trying to understand why your best friend is sending out save-the-dates for two different weddings—this conversation is for you.

RESOURCES

2025 Australian Wedding Industry Report: https://www.easyweddings.com.au/business/australian-wedding-industry-reports/#download-form

Millennial Couples Plan Their Weddings Prior to Proposals and Marry Outside Their Ethnicities, Races, Religions and More, According to the 2019 WeddingWire Newlywed Report: https://www.weddingwire.com/press/press-releases/2019/millenial-couples-plan-their-weddings-prior-to-proposals-and-marry-outside-their-ethnicities-races-religions

Ep47: Steph & Aaron - their sneaky low-cost high-end elopement & why you might consider one: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1f2CHsfFrVoKtAzg4pDEQh

Send Unbridely a 90-second audio message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/unbridelypodcast

*The Unbridely Podcast is sponsored by its listeners. When you purchase products or services through links on our website or via the podcast, we may earn an affiliate commission.*

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This episode of the Unbridely Modern Wedding Planning Podcast is brought to you by WedSites.com, Unbridely's recommended wedding website builder, guest management platform & wedding planning tool all in one.

Visit WedSites.com to get started on your FREE wedding website and use code UNBRIDELYPOD to get 10% off any of their paid plans.

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Unbridely acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we record this podcast on, the Kaurna People. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unbridely/
or TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unbridely

Email the Unbridely Podcast:
hello@unbridely.com

One of the most common questions engaged couples ask me is, “What’s the average price for a wedding photographer?”

And it’s a great question—but booking the right photographer isn’t just about price.

It’s about finding a person and package that is right for you, and your budget, but also your personalities and values. And it could mean the difference between capturing every unforgettable moment at a price that still fits your budget and having a wonderful time doing that OR missing out on the memories that matter most and trying to deal with someone who is not on the same page as you – ALL DAY LONG.

In this episode, I’m sharing the numbers, the trends, and the real factors that are shaping wedding photography costs now and into the future for Australia and the rest of the world too.

You’ll get the latest averages, straight from recent industry surveys, so you know exactly what to expect when you start your search. Plus, we’ll break down how inflation, technology, experience, location, and even the day of the week can all impact what you pay—and what you get.

And to make sure you get the best value, we’ll share 5 practical tips to help you budget wisely, and book in the perfect photographer for your big day.

RESOURCES

Fearless Photographers: How Much Does Wedding Photography Cost in 2025?

Easy Weddings: How Much Does A Wedding Photographer Cost?

Send Unbridely a 90-second audio message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/unbridelypodcast

*The Unbridely Podcast is sponsored by its listeners. When you purchase products or services through links on our website or via the podcast, we may earn an affiliate commission.*

------

This episode of the Unbridely Modern Wedding Planning Podcast is brought to you by Easy Name Change.

You simply choose which companies you need to notify, and they send you detailed process instructions for each of your companies, plus ready to send forms, letters, and emails, so you just attach your marriage certificate to them and you're done!

More info on how to change your name after you get married: https://unbridely.com/blog/name-change-after-marriage

To get $6 off your name change use the promo code UNBRIDELY6 (valid until the end of 2025)

-----

Unbridely acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we record this podcast on, the Kaurna People. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unbridely/
or TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unbridely

Email the Unbridely Podcast:
hello@unbridely.com

What if your wedding wasn’t just a party, but the kind of getaway you’ve always hoped for—something that really feels like it was made just for you and your favourite people?

Maybe it’s on the rooftop of a warehouse in Brooklyn, New York, or a chateau in the south of France.

How do you make this kind of big dream come to life, and what’s possible when you start planning something from overseas?

In this episode, I’m chatting with Rachel from Apricity Event Co, the New York-based wedding planner who works with her colleague, Beryl, in Paris to create destination weddings on both sides of the Atlantic.

You’ll learn what to expect when planning a wedding from afar —from the advantages and challenges, to the practical tips that help make a wedding weekend feel special and personal, no matter where you end up.

Plus, Rachel shares what’s trending right now in destination weddings, her top 3 tips to get your planning started and how to narrow down your destination by tuning into how different places make you feel.

Resources Mentioned:

Apricity website: https://www.apricityeventco.com/

Instagram: Apricity Event Co

Send Unbridely a 90-second audio message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/unbridelypodcast

*The Unbridely Podcast is sponsored by its listeners. When you purchase products or services through links on our website or via the podcast, we may earn an affiliate commission.*

------

This episode of the Unbridely Modern Wedding Planning Podcast is brought to you by Never Miss Moments Unbridely's recommended wedding guest photo and video-sharing tool. With your unique QR code, your family and friends can quickly, easily and securely share their snaps with you in your personalised online gallery.

Visit nevermissmoments.com/unbridely to receive your 10% discount off their galleries.

-----

Unbridely acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we record this podcast on, the Kaurna People. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unbridely/
or TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unbridely

Email the Unbridely Podcast:
hello@unbridely.com

Picture this: The reception is going off, the dance floor is packed, and out of nowhere, a guest decides it’s the perfect moment for an impromptu karaoke performance on top of the couple’s table.

The song? “I Will Survive.”

The table? Didn’t.

We’ve all heard stories about wedding guests who, let’s just say, left a lasting impression for all the wrong reasons. Maybe you’ve even witnessed a few moments yourself—guests who turned up wearing white, brought uninvited plus-ones, or made themselves a little too comfortable at the open bar.

But here’s the thing: being a truly great wedding guest isn’t about following a mysterious set of rules or walking on eggshells. It’s about showing up with a little intention, a dash of gratitude, and a whole lot of your best energy.

So, whether you’re prepping for your first wedding of the season or you’re a practised guest just looking to brush up on your etiquette, today’s episode is all about how to be the kind of guest every couple is thrilled to have at their wedding.

Because you don’t want to be ‘that guy’, right?

RESOURCES

Send Unbridely a 90-second audio message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/unbridelypodcast

*The Unbridely Podcast is sponsored by its listeners. When you purchase products or services through links on our website or via the podcast, we may earn an affiliate commission.*

------

This episode of the Unbridely Modern Wedding Planning Podcast is brought to you by Unbridely’s ebook How To Write Wedding Vows That Don’t Suck

https://unbridely.com/shop/htwwvtds

This is for YOU if you want to write the unique and heartfelt wedding vows your fiancé deserves, but don't know where to start. 🤔

AND want to get it done in 20 minutes or less. 💪

Grab your instant pdf download of the Unbridely ebook 'How To Write Wedding Vows That Don't Suck' for just $27 now! 🧡

https://unbridely.com/shop/htwwvtds

-----

Unbridely acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we record this podcast on, the Kaurna People. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unbridely/
or TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unbridely

Email the Unbridely Podcast:
hello@unbridely.com

Did you know that the side you choose to stand on for your wedding ceremony could affect everything from your wedding photos to your physical comfort, right down to whether or not your veil behaves or misbehaves?

It sounds like such a small detail, but this is one of those decisions that can spark surprisingly big opinions from family members, your wedding party, and even your vendors.

But is there really a right side to stand on for your ceremony and when it comes down to it, does it really matter anyway?

In this episode, we’ll:

• Uncover the fascinating history behind ceremony sides,
• unpack why some people still feel so strongly about this tradition,
• and more importantly, share 5 practical things you should consider before you pick your spot at the altar.

From how your floral arrangements frame your photos to the way the sun and wind might impact your comfort, to those little secrets about looking and feeling your best, this episode will help you to make a choice that's perfect for you.

RESOURCES

Send Unbridely a 90-second audio message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/unbridelypodcast

*The Unbridely Podcast is sponsored by its listeners. When you purchase products or services through links on our website or via the podcast, we may earn an affiliate commission.*

------

This episode of the Unbridely Modern Wedding Planning Podcast is brought to you by WedSites.com, Unbridely's recommended wedding website builder, guest management platform & wedding planning tool all in one.

Visit WedSites.com to get started on your FREE wedding website and use code UNBRIDELYPOD to get 10% off any of their paid plans.

-----

Unbridely acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we record this podcast on, the Kaurna People. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unbridely/
or TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unbridely

Email the Unbridely Podcast:
hello@unbridely.com