Welcome to The Bouquet Toss, the podcast that helps you plan your wedding day your way! We’re your hosts, Jess and Sari, and in each episode, we dig into the wedding traditions and trends you love, hate, or just don’t get—so you can decide what to keep and what to toss for your big day. In this week’s episode, we’re unpacking the age-old (and still very relevant) question: should you change your last name after marriage? Whether you're hyped to rock a new surname, feeling conflicted, or haven't ...
May 14, 2025•37 min•Ep. 48
Welcome to The Bouquet Toss, the podcast that helps you plan your wedding day your way! We’re your hosts, Jess and Sari, and each episode, we dive into wedding traditions and trends to help you decide what to keep and what to toss for your big day. This week, we’re tackling one of the trickiest wedding topics: tipping your vendors. From how much to tip your hair and makeup team to whether you should tip your photographer, we’re breaking down all the etiquette and expectations so you’re never lef...
Apr 30, 2025•27 min•Ep. 47
Welcome to The Bouquet Toss, the podcast that helps you plan your wedding day your way! We’re your hosts, Jessica and Sari, and in each episode, we unpack traditions and trends to help you decide what to keep and what to toss for your big day. In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of wedding upcycling—creative ways to save money, cut down on waste, and make your wedding more sustainable and meaningful. From Facebook finds to post-wedding repurposing, we’ve got savvy tips that are kind ...
Apr 16, 2025•38 min•Ep. 46
In this eye-opening episode, hosts Jessica and Sari dive deep into the world of real weddings—what that actually means, how social media distorts our expectations, and why transparency in wedding planning matters more than ever. Episode Highlights: 💍 The difference between real weddings and styled shoots—why it’s important to know what you’re looking at! 📸 How the wedding industry curates picture-perfect content that may not reflect reality 💰 Understanding wedding costs: why prices vary by re...
Apr 02, 2025•40 min•Ep. 45
Today, we’re tackling a topic every couple should consider—wedding insurance! What is it? Do you need it? And what exactly does it cover? We’re breaking it all down so you can protect your big day from unexpected mishaps. Episode Highlights: 📜 What wedding insurance covers—and what it doesn’t 💰 How much wedding insurance actually costs (hint: it’s affordable!) ⚠️ Real-life scenarios where wedding insurance saved the day 🐶 Surprising coverage options—including protection for pets in the ceremo...
Mar 19, 2025•42 min•Ep. 44
Today, we’re talking about FREE wedding stuff—yes, you heard that right! Weddings can be expensive, but there are tons of freebies and perks out there that can help you save big while still making your big day special. Episode Highlights: 🎁 The best free wedding resources, from stationery to planning tools 💌 How to score free wedding invitations, websites, and digital tools 🛍️ Hidden registry perks that can get you free gifts and discounts 💡 Savvy ways to find free decor, favors, and more to...
Mar 05, 2025•38 min•Ep. 43
Today, we dive into that exciting (but overwhelming) moment after you get engaged with Sarah Klingman from Mostest. So many questions, so many decisions—but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Episode Highlights: - The first steps to take after getting engaged - How long does it really take to plan a wedding? - The importance of flexibility and setting priorities early on - Budgeting tips to help you allocate your wedding funds wisely - A fun game of "Keep It or Toss It" featuring wedding planni...
Feb 19, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 42
Today, we are joined by Alison Fleck of Bloom Culture to discuss one of the most debated wedding expenses—flowers! Whether you love them, hate them, or are shocked by the cost, we’re here to break down everything you need to know about wedding florals. Episode Highlights: Why flowers have become such a staple in weddings and whether you actually need them. The average cost of wedding flowers—and why it might be higher than you think. Alternative floral options, including rentals, DIY arrangement...
Feb 05, 2025•49 min•Ep. 41
In today’s episode, we’re taking the plunge into all things honeymoon! From choosing the perfect destination to budgeting tips that make even a dream getaway possible, we’re sharing everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip. Plus, we’re joined by special guest Sara Margulis, CEO of Honeyfund, the ultimate honeymoon registry platform, who breaks down how couples can fund their dream honeymoon with ease. Episode Highlights: How to choose the right honeymoon destination based on you...
Jan 22, 2025•55 min•Ep. 40
In today’s episode, we’re focusing on how to prepare for wedding day emergencies so you can stay calm and enjoy every moment. From forgotten essentials to last-minute wardrobe malfunctions, we’re sharing practical tips to help you avoid disaster. Plus, we’re joined by special guest Risa Kostis, co-founder and CEO of The Rescue Kit Company, who has made it her mission to save the day for countless brides with her expertly curated fashion emergency kits. Episode Highlights: Must-have items to pack...
Jan 08, 2025•34 min•Ep. 39
Welcome back to The Bouquet Toss, your ultimate podcast for wedding planning! In this episode, hosts Sari and Jessica dive into all the details of Sari's recent wedding. From ensuring your vows align perfectly with your partner's, to her budget-saving tip for booking the venue of your dreams, Sari shares it all. Discover why the end-of-night cheesesteak was a guest favorite and hear Sari's invaluable DJ advice for an unforgettable celebration. Don't miss out on firsthand insights from a Wedding ...
Dec 25, 2024•38 min•Ep. 38
In today’s episode, we’re taking a closer look at the growing demand for personalized and meaningful wedding jewelry. Special guest Nikolay Piriankov, CEO of Taylor & Hart, joins us to discuss how couples are moving beyond cookie-cutter designs to create custom engagement rings that tell their unique love stories. From the rise of lab-grown diamonds to the enduring appeal of vintage-inspired styles, we’re unpacking everything you need to know to find or design the perfect piece. Episode High...
Dec 11, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 37
In today’s episode, we’re unwrapping the pros and cons of holiday weddings and engagements! From dreamy weather to logistical challenges, we’re helping you decide if a holiday celebration is the perfect fit for your big day. Plus, we’re sharing the ultimate gift guide for engaged couples with ideas that are thoughtful, unique, and practical: Cricut: Perfect for the DIY bride. The Rescue Kit Co.: Wedding-day emergencies? Handled. Flytographer Photo Shoot: Honeymoon memories captured beautifully. ...
Dec 04, 2024•32 min•Ep. 36
In today’s episode, we’re joined by the incredible Lynea D’Aprix, a wedding planner, photographer, and social media creator, to uncover what’s in (and out) for weddings in 2025. From Harry Potter-themed weddings and Shrek bachelorettes to editorial photography and cottagecore vibes, Lynea shares her take on the trends that are shaping the future of weddings. We also dive into breaking traditions, embracing creativity, and why it’s time to rethink what “timeless” really means. Episode Highlights:...
Nov 27, 2024•50 min•Ep. 35
In today’s episode, we’re breaking down the “average” wedding cost—myth, math, or manipulation? Special guest Sarah Ghabbour from Loved Twice Bridal joins us to reveal how her business is transforming the luxury wedding gown market with curated, pre-loved designer dresses. We’ll explore how opting for a secondhand gown can help couples save big while embracing sustainability, and we’ll also unpack the factors driving the “wedding tax” and why wedding budgets so often spiral out of control. Episo...
Nov 13, 2024•57 min•Ep. 34
In today’s episode, we’re tackling the world of wedding registries! We discuss the wide variety of registry options available, from traditional kitchen items to cash funds and more creative choices like experience-based gifts. Speaking of experiences, we highlight one particularly unique idea—booking a professional photographer through Flytographer to capture your honeymoon memories in stunning destinations around the world! Episode Highlights: Why registry items like kitchenware still matter, e...
Oct 30, 2024•34 min•Ep. 32
In today’s episode, we kick things off with a fun recap of some of the biggest wedding headlines of 2024, including how inflation is affecting wedding costs, creative ways couples are managing their budgets, and some surprising trends like charging guests an entrance fee to attend weddings. We share our hot takes and have a few laughs over the wildest stories we’ve come across this year. Then, we are joined by Anna-Mieke Anderson, founder of MiaDonna, to dive into one of the most impactful topic...
Oct 16, 2024•57 min•Ep. 31
Today, we are joined by Julianne Simson, also known as @howtobebrokeinny, to discuss one of our favorite topics ever—how to make your wedding savvy and sustainable! As a recent bride with a focus on sustainability, Julianne shares all the ways she infused her wedding with eco-friendly choices while still making it a beautiful and memorable day. Episode Highlights: Julianne shares her incredible journey of planning a savvy and sustainable wedding in New York City, with some unexpected surprises a...
Oct 02, 2024•34 min•Ep. 30
Today, we are joined by Rev Roxy, a dynamic and sought-after wedding officiant, here to talk all about the most important part of the big day—the ceremony! Rev Roxy shares her unique insights on how to make your wedding ceremony meaningful, memorable, and personal to you and your partner. Episode Highlights: Rev Roxy shares her whirlwind romance story, from meeting her husband at basic training to getting married just THREE WEEKS later on a lunch break. A discussion on how to craft a wedding cer...
Sep 18, 2024•52 min•Ep. 29
Today, we are joined by Lauren Ladouceur a wedding content creator who's redefining how couples capture their special day. Lauren dives into the rising trend of wedding content creation, offering a fresh perspective on how this new approach allows couples to relive every unforgettable moment. Episode Highlights: - Lauren shares her journey from corporate events to becoming a full-time wedding content creator and why this trend has taken off recently. - A fun and insightful segment where Lauren d...
Sep 04, 2024•38 min•Ep. 28
Today, we are joined by Elizabeth Earnshaw, a licensed marriage and family therapist and author, who shares her expert advice on how couples can navigate the stress of wedding planning. Elizabeth has recently released a highly anticipated book on managing relationship stress, and we are thrilled to have her with us! Episode Highlights: - Elizabeth offers insights from her book, "I Want This to Work," focusing on how to handle stress during the wedding planning process. - Personal anecdotes from ...
Aug 21, 2024•44 min•Ep. 27
Today, we are joined by author Elle Evans as we dive into the external pressures and expectations that come with planning a wedding. Elle has recently released a highly relatable fiction novel that explores these very themes, and we are thrilled to have her with us! Episode Highlights: - Elle shares insights from her new novel, "Wedding Issues," which explores the pressures of wedding planning. - Personal anecdotes from Elle's own wedding in Maine, described using five emojis. - Discussion on ba...
Aug 07, 2024•33 min•Ep. 26
In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome back the incredible Jen Glantz for part two of our conversation. Jen, also known as Bridesmaid for Hire, is an experienced bridesmaid, author, and entrepreneur who brings a unique perspective to wedding planning. Join us as we dive deeper into her fascinating journey, discuss the nuances of being a good bridesmaid, and explore how to navigate relationship dynamics during wedding planning. Episode Highlights: - Jen Glantz shares more about her path to be...
Jul 24, 2024•49 min•Ep. 25
In this episode, we're excited to welcome the incredible Jen Glantz, also known as Bridesmaid for Hire. Jen is an experienced bridesmaid, author, and entrepreneur who brings a unique perspective to wedding planning. Join us as we explore her fascinating journey, professional bridesmaiding adventures, and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way. Episode Highlights: - Meet our guest, Jen Glantz, and learn about her path to becoming Bridesmaid for Hire - The ups and downs of being a profes...
Jul 10, 2024•53 min•Ep. 24
Welcome back to The Bouquet Toss, your ultimate podcast for wedding planning! In this episode, hosts Sari and Jessica dive into all the details of Sari's recent wedding. From ensuring your vows align perfectly with your partner's, to her budget-saving tip for booking the venue of your dreams, Sari shares it all. Discover why the end-of-night cheesesteak was a guest favorite and hear Sari's invaluable DJ advice for an unforgettable celebration. Don't miss out on firsthand insights from a Wedding ...
Jun 26, 2024•38 min•Ep. 23
🎉 Big News Alert! 🎉 We're SO excited to announce the latest show to join The Love Stories TV Podcast Network: The Bouquet Toss! 🎙✨ After 5 incredible seasons as an audio podcast, we're taking things up a notch with VIDEO! 📹 Now you can WATCH all the fun on YouTube, Spotify, and The Love Stories TV Channel. Get ready because the first new episode is launching THIS WEDNESDAY! 🗓 Make sure you hit the link in bio and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss out! 🎧💕 The Bouqu...
Jun 25, 2024•34 sec•Ep. 22
Investing is confusing. But there are some really savvy things you and your partner can be doing to set you up for the future you envision having together. We need real pros to dive into this topic, so today we are speaking with Emily Luk, CEO and cofounder of Plenty - a wealth platform built for modern couples to invest and plan towards their future, together. For 10% off Plenty - use code BudgetSavvyBrides This episode also features a sponsored segment in partnership with Cricut . Avani Patel ...
Apr 23, 2024•43 min•Season 5Ep. 9
The ups and downs of wedding planning can certainly take you for a ride. Once you jump in it gets pretty easy to want to vent about the downs, so we want to take a look at the ups, and recognize how weddings can actually strengthen relationships in a lot of cases. So, today we are speaking with Leah Weinberg - former wedding planner, and author of The Wedding Roller Coaster . After nearly a decade in the wedding industry as the owner of Color Pop Events, Leah is returning to her roots as an atto...
Apr 09, 2024•47 min•Season 5Ep. 8
Weddings are found in almost every society, so weddings should be for everyone, and unfortunately, it doesn't always feel that way. Inclusion in the weddings industry has historically left much to be desired, so today we are speaking with a DEI expert to learn how to create a wedding that is equitable and inclusive. Milka Milliance is a co-founder, author, inclusion and equity strategist, leadership coach, facilitator and organizational change consultant. She has a background in Cultural Anthrop...
Mar 26, 2024•45 min•Season 5Ep. 7
A wedding is a ceremony planned to formally execute (and celebrate) a legally binding marriage contract between two parties. While it may not be the sexiest or most romantic way to describe it, but at the crux of it all, a marriage is a legal contract and a wedding is the ritual that marks this life altering change. Even though weddings are incredible and magical and often described as the best day of someone's life, there is just no escaping the fact that a wedding is accompanied by several leg...
Mar 12, 2024•44 min•Season 5Ep. 6
