The Wedding Dish

Hosted by Sara Alepin

Business Entrepreneurship Society CultureInterviews guests

Website RSS feed Facebook YouTube

Episodes

190

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

About the show

Grab your fork and knife, and take a seat at our table as we dish on all things weddings. You’ll hear stories and tips from real couples and wedding pros about life, love and entrepreneurship. The Wedding Dish is a casual, conversation-style podcast featuring stories and tips from real couples and wedding pros. Let’s dish!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 11, 2026Episode 17628 min

The Childhood Habits Shaping Your Financial Future

We are diving into a topic that many couples avoid until the wedding bills start rolling in. Financial coach Dylan, Dylan Teaches Finance, joins us to discuss how our earliest memories of money influence our modern relationships. We explore why some of us get a dopamine hit from a new purchase while others find peace in a growing savings account. Dylan shares how to identify your unique money story and how to start a neutral conversation about finances with your partner. From separate savings buckets to planning for both fun and serious goals, this episode provides a roadmap for financial harmony. Learn how to stop the cycle of impulse spending and start building a future that reflects your shared values. Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the Harty, a small but mighty team of wedding and event photographers in Washington, D.C. We believe our couples need to love their photographers as much as their photos, and bring their personalities to each and every shoot. District Bliss, a community of business owners; get the support you need to skyrocket your business with ease! 17hats. Business just got easier. At The Wedding Dish, we use 17hats for scheduling guests, questionnaires, to develop our show notes, and for our all of guest management. It’s the CRM that makes it easy to run two businesses and two podcasts seamlessly. Chill Paws, human-grade CBD for your furry pals (use CLOU15 for a discount) Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

June 4, 2026Episode 17531 min

The Invisible Power of Audio in Your Wedding Story

We are exploring the world of wedding filmmaking with an international expert who believes that the true heart of your wedding story lies in the things you say. Jonathan Schüßler joins us to talk about the one element most couples forget to prioritize until the day is already over. Grab a seat at the table as we dish on: The reason why spoken words and personal stories carry more weight than the perfect sunset shot. How to capture the voices of your favorite people without turning your celebration into a disruptive movie set. The logistics of hybrid teams and how photographers and videographers can work as a unified front. Why physical fitness is a secret requirement for a high energy wedding team. The art of compressing hours of footage into a curated story that actually captures your essence. Whether you are debating a videographer or wondering how to keep your day feeling natural while the cameras are rolling, Jonathan’s perspective on storytelling will change the way you think about your wedding memories. Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the Harty, a small but mighty team of wedding and event photographers in Washington, D.C. We believe our couples need to love their photographers as much as their photos, and bring their personalities to each and every shoot. District Bliss, a community of business owners; get the support you need to skyrocket your business with ease! 17hats. Business just got easier. At The Wedding Dish, we use 17hats for scheduling guests, questionnaires, to develop our show notes, and for our all of guest management. It’s the CRM that makes it easy to run two businesses and two podcasts seamlessly. Chill Paws, human-grade CBD for your furry pals (use CLOU15 for a discount) Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

May 28, 2026Episode 17450 min

Global Wedding Trends from America to Australia

We are traveling across the globe without ever leaving our seats. I am joined by Jessica of JEM Weddings and the Weddings Unfiltered podcast for a deep dive into the surprising similarities and unique differences between the American and Australian wedding industries. Take a seat at the table as we dish on: The Seasonal Shift: How peak wedding months vary between hemispheres and the different weather challenges couples face, from cyclones to snow. Global Economic Impacts: How rising fuel costs, tariffs, and supply chain issues are impacting everything from floral availability to the price of a wedding dress. The Modern Timeline: Why the old format of long gaps between the ceremony and reception is disappearing in favor of a more seamless guest experience. New Vendor Categories: The rise of emerging roles like wedding content creators and live artists who are reinventing how memories are captured. Inclusive Traditions: Why the inclusion of pets as ring bearers and the creation of heartfelt memorial tables are trending in both countries. Outdated Practices: Which traditional rituals are being left behind and how couples are choosing creative alternatives for things like the bouquet toss. Whether you are planning a destination wedding or just curious about how celebrations look on the other side of the world, Jessica’s insights provide a wonderful perspective on the shared joys and challenges of the modern wedding industry. Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the Harty, a small but mighty team of wedding and event photographers in Washington, D.C. We believe our couples need to love their photographers as much as their photos, and bring their personalities to each and every shoot. District Bliss, a community of business owners; get the support you need to skyrocket your business with ease! 17hats. Business just got easier. At The Wedding Dish, we use 17hats for scheduling guests, questionnaires, to develop our show notes, and for our all of guest management. It’s the CRM that makes it easy to run two businesses and two podcasts seamlessly. Chill Paws, human-grade CBD for your furry pals (use CLOU15 for a discount) Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

May 21, 2026Episode 17328 min

Presence is the Real Luxury. Reclaim Your Emotional Space on the Wedding Day

We often spend months planning every visual detail, but have you planned for how you actually want to feel? This week, we are joined by international documentary wedding photographer Raphaëlle Granger to discuss a concept that is often overlooked in the hustle of wedding planning: presence. Raphaëlle believes that the ultimate luxury on a wedding day isn’t the decor or the venue - it’s the emotional space the couple has to truly exist in the moment. Grab your fork as we dish on: The What's Next? Test: Why turning to your photographer for direction is a sign you’ve lost presence, and how to stay in the flow instead. Buffer Time is for You: The importance of building emotional safe spaces into your timeline that are strictly for recentering - not for more photos. Performance vs. Reality: How to avoid performing for the camera by staying in motion and trusting your natural instincts. The Power of No: Making the invisible decisions about where not to compromise, even when professionals suggest otherwise. Protecting the Atmosphere: Practical tips for managing your getting ready space to ensure it remains a calm, organized sanctuary. Whether you are an introvert who needs time to recharge or a couple who simply wants to remember how the day felt rather than just how it looked, Raphaëlle’s insights will change the way you look at your wedding timeline. Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the Harty, a small but mighty team of wedding and event photographers in Washington, D.C. We believe our couples need to love their photographers as much as their photos, and bring their personalities to each and every shoot. District Bliss, a community of business owners; get the support you need to skyrocket your business with ease! 17hats. Business just got easier. At The Wedding Dish, we use 17hats for scheduling guests, questionnaires, to develop our show notes, and for our all of guest management. It’s the CRM that makes it easy to run two businesses and two podcasts seamlessly. Chill Paws, human-grade CBD for your furry pals (use CLOU15 for a discount) Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

March 5, 2026Episode 17236 min

The 3-1-1 Strategy: How to Maximize Your Honeymoon Without Burning Out

We all want that Pinterest-perfect honeymoon, but how do you plan a trip that is actually relaxing and safe? This week, we are dishing with Becki, the travel expert behind Research Travel Repeat. Becki shares her journey from a life-changing study abroad in Rome to helping couples solve the complex "puzzle" of travel planning. Grab your fork (and your passport!) as we dish on: The AI Warning: Why relying on AI for travel itineraries can be dangerous—literally. Becki shares a cautionary tale about travelers getting stranded on a mountain in Japan due to AI hallucinations. The 3-1-1 Philosophy: How spending at least three nights in each destination ensures you actually enjoy your honeymoon instead of just living out of a suitcase. Maximizing Limited PTO: Strategies for couples who want big adventures but have a limited number of vacation days. Social Media vs. Reality: How to avoid the trap of "over-planning" based on influencers and instead focus on shared rituals and reconnection. Consultation vs. Full-Service: The difference between getting a "Dream Trip Blueprint" and having a pro handle every single detail for you. Whether you’re getting scuba certified or looking for the perfect beach to lounge on, Becki’s expert advice will help you navigate the world with confidence and ease. Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the Harty, a small but mighty team of wedding and event photographers in Washington, D.C. We believe our couples need to love their photographers as much as their photos, and bring their personalities to each and every shoot. District Bliss, a community of business owners; get the support you need to skyrocket your business with ease! 17hats. Business just got easier. At The Wedding Dish, we use 17hats for scheduling guests, questionnaires, to develop our show notes, and for our all of guest management. It’s the CRM that makes it easy to run two businesses and two podcasts seamlessly. Chill Paws, human-grade CBD for your furry pals (use CLOU15 for a discount) Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

February 19, 2026Episode 17127 min

Don't Go to Bed Angry? Why That (and Other Marriage Myths) Are Ruining Your Vibe

We’ve all heard the well-meaning advice: "Never go to bed angry." But what if that’s actually making your relationship harder? This week, we are sitting down with relationship coach and author Monica Tanner to debunk the clichés and talk about the actual skills needed for a thriving marriage. Grab a seat at the table as we dish on: Sifting Through the Noise: Why Monica’s son getting married inspired her to write a book debunking harmful "traditional" marriage advice. The Power of Curiosity: How replacing anxiety with curiosity and vulnerability can transform your communication (including the game-changing phrase Monica’s husband uses to calm her fears). Collaboration vs. Compromise: Why compromise often leads to resentment and score-keeping, and how to choose collaboration instead. Sweating the Small Stuff: Why habits like how you load the toilet paper or close the toilet seat matter - and how to address them before they turn into major disputes. Learning the Skills: Why "happily ever after" isn't a fairy tale gift, but a set of abilities you can develop together over time. Whether you’re in the middle of wedding planning or already settled into married life, Monica’s practical, heart-centered advice will help you move from "fine" to "thriving." Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the Harty, a small but mighty team of wedding and event photographers in Washington, D.C. We believe our couples need to love their photographers as much as their photos, and bring their personalities to each and every shoot. District Bliss, a community of business owners; get the support you need to skyrocket your business with ease! 17hats. Business just got easier. At The Wedding Dish, we use 17hats for scheduling guests, questionnaires, to develop our show notes, and for our all of guest management. It’s the CRM that makes it easy to run two businesses and two podcasts seamlessly. Chill Paws, human-grade CBD for your furry pals (use CLOU15 for a discount) Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

February 12, 2026Episode 17028 min

Experiences Over Toasters: 2026 Wedding Trends with Honeyfund CEO Sara Margulis

The way couples celebrate and gift is changing faster than ever. This week, we are sitting down with a true industry trailblazer - Sara Margulis, CEO of Honeyfund. We’re diving into their latest travel reports and the shifting landscape of wedding etiquette to see what "I do" looks like in 2026. Grab your passport as we dish on: The Domestic Destination Boom: Why 25% of couples are choosing domestic destination weddings this year to combine travel goals with affordability. Experience-Based Gifting: How the shift from traditional registries to crowdfunding is allowing couples to prioritize shared memories over material possessions. The Global Hotlist: From Hawaii and Italy to the rise of Japan and Thailand, we discuss where couples are heading for their dream honeymoons. The Etiquette Evolution: We tackle the tough questions: Are QR codes for cash gifts okay? And is the handwritten thank-you note officially a thing of the past? Whether you’re dreaming of a cliffside ceremony in Hawaii or wondering how to politely ask for honeymoon contributions, Sara Margulis brings the data and the heart to help you plan with confidence. Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the Harty, a small but mighty team of wedding and event photographers in Washington, D.C. We believe our couples need to love their photographers as much as their photos, and bring their personalities to each and every shoot. District Bliss, a community of business owners; get the support you need to skyrocket your business with ease! 17hats. Business just got easier. At The Wedding Dish, we use 17hats for scheduling guests, questionnaires, to develop our show notes, and for our all of guest management. It’s the CRM that makes it easy to run two businesses and two podcasts seamlessly. Chill Paws, human-grade CBD for your furry pals (use CLOU15 for a discount) Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

February 5, 2026Episode 16933 min

Beyond the Decor: The Secret to a High-Energy, Unforgettable Wedding

We’ve all been to weddings that look beautiful, but how do you make a wedding feel incredible? This week, we’re dishing with Daniel, owner of DLE Event Group, about the invisible elements that turn a standard reception into an unforgettable experience: entertainment, energy, and flow. Grab your seat as we dish on: Atmosphere Over Aesthetics: Why seamless execution and high energy often leave a bigger impact on guests than the floral arrangements. The "Flow" Debate: Daniel breaks down the American-style reception (alternating dancing and formalities) versus the European-style and why pacing is the key to keeping the dance floor packed. Music for the Masses: How to balance the couple's personal playlist with a variety of genres that keep every generation engaged and celebrating. The "Cost Per Minute" Math: A strategic look at your wedding budget and why a professional planner is often the most valuable investment you can make. Avoiding the Over-Scheduled Trap: Why "less is more" when it comes to planned activities, and how to allow for natural, spontaneous moments. Whether you’re just starting your vendor search or you’re fine-tuning your timeline, Daniel’s insights will help you host a celebration that your guests will be talking about for years! Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the Harty, a small but mighty team of wedding and event photographers in Washington, D.C. We believe our couples need to love their photographers as much as their photos, and bring their personalities to each and every shoot. District Bliss, a community of business owners; get the support you need to skyrocket your business with ease! 17hats. Business just got easier. At The Wedding Dish, we use 17hats for scheduling guests, questionnaires, to develop our show notes, and for our all of guest management. It’s the CRM that makes it easy to run two businesses and two podcasts seamlessly. Chill Paws, human-grade CBD for your furry pals (use CLOU15 for a discount) Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

January 29, 2026Episode 16821 min

Adventure in Luxury: Choosing Your Dream Elopement Backdrop

If you think "eloping" just means a quick trip to the courthouse, think again. This week, we are sitting down with Emilee Setting Photo, an elopement photographer who specializes in creating all-day and multi-day luxury experiences that feel more like a dream vacation than a 20-minute ceremony. Grab your hiking boots (and maybe a glass of champagne) as we dish on: Location, Location, Location: Understanding the red tape of National Parks vs. the freedom of National Forests and BLM land. The "Luxury Elopement" Breakdown: How a $25,000 multi-day adventure in places like Greece or Alaska can actually save you money compared to a $75,000 traditional DC wedding. Combining the Wedding & Honeymoon: Why more couples are choosing to blend their "I dos" with activities like cliff jumping, private massages, and first-class travel. The Family Dilemma: Brilliant strategies for including your parents and siblings (like separate "get ready" times and private vows) while still protecting that intimate, private feeling. Navigating 2026 Trends: Sara and Emilee weigh in on the latest wedding vibes and why "going with your gut" is the best planning advice you'll ever get. Whether you want to climb a mountain or lounge on a private beach, this episode will help you map out an elopement that is authentically you. Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the Harty, a small but mighty team of wedding and event photographers in Washington, D.C. We believe our couples need to love their photographers as much as their photos, and bring their personalities to each and every shoot. District Bliss, a community of business owners; get the support you need to skyrocket your business with ease! 17hats. Business just got easier. At The Wedding Dish, we use 17hats for scheduling guests, questionnaires, to develop our show notes, and for our all of guest management. It’s the CRM that makes it easy to run two businesses and two podcasts seamlessly. Chill Paws, human-grade CBD for your furry pals (use CLOU15 for a discount) Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

January 22, 2026Episode 16737 min

Ordained Offiants, Counseling, and Modern Ceremony Trends

We often focus on the big day, but what about the rest of your lives? This week, we are getting expert advice on the marriage itself with David, a seasoned wedding officiant, pastor, and counselor with decades of experience! David shares insights not only on the ceremony but on building a successful, long-lasting partnership. Grab your fork as we dish on: The crucial conversation: How a simple 90-minute counseling session can dramatically reduce your divorce risk (David shares the numbers!). The rise of friends/family officiating and online ordination, and the practical challenges of having a non-professional run your ceremony. The importance of premarital counseling - focusing on family background, communication patterns, and how to transition from an "I" to a "we" mindset. What happens after the wedding? David explains the challenging "Cave Period" that couples face in the first year of marriage and how to prepare for it. Advice for first-time officiants on navigating venues, working with vendors, and focusing on the couple's relationship. This episode is an essential listen for every engaged couple looking to invest in a joyful, successful marriage that lasts! Guest: Rev. David Anderson, Wedding Chaplain Need your dish fix? Visit theweddingdishpodcast.com! This episode is brought to you by... Photos from the Harty, a small but mighty team of wedding and event photographers in Washington, D.C. We believe our couples need to love their photographers as much as their photos, and bring their personalities to each and every shoot. District Bliss, a community of business owners; get the support you need to skyrocket your business with ease! 17hats. Business just got easier. At The Wedding Dish, we use 17hats for scheduling guests, questionnaires, to develop our show notes, and for our all of guest management. It’s the CRM that makes it easy to run two businesses and two podcasts seamlessly. Chill Paws, human-grade CBD for your furry pals (use CLOU15 for a discount) Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.