Advertise on podcast: Wedding Day Podcast

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: Why wedding catering costs more than a restaurant mealWhat staffing, rentals and service contribute to a catering proposalHow your wedding venue can affect the menu a caterer createsWhat goes into serving a large plated wedding dinnerWhy family-style wedding dinners have become increasingly popularWhy does wedding catering cost so much? For couples planning their first large event, a catering proposal can come with expenses they have never encountered at a restaurant. On this episode of the Wedding Day Podcast, Iron Diamond Media owner Sonja Babich sits down with Eric Sandstrom, owner of Portland-based Art of Catering, to explain the food, staffing, rentals, equipment and service behind a wedding meal. Eric shares how Art of Catering prepares food on-site, even when that means creating an auxiliary kitchen at a vineyard or another unconventional venue. He explains why back-of-house space matters, how the team builds custom menus around each couple and what it takes to serve a large room quickly when guests have selected different entrées. He also shares his approach to family-style service, including one clever reason to serve the salad course separately. The conversation also explores changing Portland wedding seasons, rehearsal dinners evolving into larger welcome parties and Art of Catering's expanded Central Eastside home. Plus, Eric plays a round of "Splurge or Save," weighing in on late-night snacks, oyster bars, charcuterie displays, welcome drinks, french fry bars and vegetarian options. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: Whether bridesmaids’ bouquets make good reception centerpiecesHow to create impact by mixing tall and low wedding centerpiecesWhy centerpiece height matters for your guestsWays to reuse ceremony arches and aisle flowers at the receptionWhat a florist handles behind the scenes on your wedding dayCan you reuse bridesmaids’ bouquets as wedding centerpieces? It sounds like a simple way to make your flowers go further, but florist Gina Thresher explains why those bouquets may look worse for wear by the time guests sit down for dinner. On this episode of the Wedding Day Podcast, Iron Diamond Media owner Sonja Babich and publisher Alexis Sanabria sit down with Gina, owner of From the Ground Up Floral, to talk about wedding flowers that look beautiful from ceremony to reception. Gina shares how to make a reception feel lush without choosing the same elaborate arrangement for every table. She discusses clustering bud vases, varying centerpiece heights and keeping guests’ sightlines clear. She also explains how couples can plan ahead to move ceremony installations and aisle flowers to new locations for the reception. From designing the flowers for her own wedding to solving unexpected problems during professional wedding setups, Gina brings a practical perspective to floral design. Whether you’re deciding where to invest in flowers or wondering which arrangements can serve a second purpose, this conversation will help you ask your florist the right questions. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: When to book your wedding hair and makeup teamWhy the bride should not be scheduled last in the beauty timelineHow to prepare your skin before the weddingWhich bridal hair and makeup trends are gaining popularityWhat to bring to your bridal hair and makeup previewWhat luxury bridal beauty services and pricing can includeWhat does it take to create a calm, personalized wedding beauty experience? On this episode of the Wedding Day Podcast, Iron Diamond Media Owner Sonja Babich and Editorial Director Lara Burnap sit down with Emily Gleeson, Owner and Lead Hair and Makeup Artist of Arizona-based Bridal Artistry Collective, to discuss what couples should know before booking their wedding hair and makeup team. From planning a realistic beauty timeline to creating a supportive atmosphere in the getting-ready suite, Emily shares how experienced artists can help set the tone for the wedding day. She also explores current bridal beauty trends, including minimal editorial makeup, signature soft glam, ’90s-inspired updos and effortless waves, along with the skin treatments that can help brides prepare for their final look. Whether you are gathering bridal beauty inspiration or preparing for your hair and makeup preview, this conversation offers expert guidance on communicating your vision, giving honest feedback and understanding the investment behind luxury beauty services. Tune in for an inside look at wedding-day touch-ups, reception transformations and creating a bridal look that still feels authentically you. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: How WIPA supports wedding professionals through education and communityWhat couples should look for when hiring wedding vendorsWhy contracts, insurance and business licenses matterHow authenticity helps professionals connect with the right couplesWhy thoughtful offboarding can create referrals and legacy clientsHow professional relationships support destination wedding planningWhat makes a wedding professional trustworthy—and how can couples recognize those qualities? On this episode of the Wedding Day Podcast, Iron Diamond Media Owner Sonja Babich sits down with Jacqueline “Jax” Vizcaino, president of the Wedding Industry Professionals Association (WIPA) and founder and lead planner of Tinted Events, at WIPA’s inaugural National Conference in Frisco, Texas. Jax explains how WIPA promotes professional excellence through education, ethical standards and meaningful industry connections. She shares what couples should consider when evaluating wedding vendors, from detailed contracts and organized communication to professional credentials and an authentic online presence. Jax also discusses how thoughtful offboarding can lead to referrals, repeat business and lifelong client relationships. Whether you’re planning a wedding or building a career in the wedding industry, this conversation offers valuable insight into choosing trustworthy professionals, creating stronger client relationships and building a dependable nationwide network. Tune in for an engaging discussion about wedding industry education, destination planning and the power of professional community. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: What wedding magazine editors consider when reviewing submissionsHow to make a wedding submission stand outWhy publication can strengthen a wedding professional’s credibilityWhich photographs and details to include in a submissionWhy complete vendor credits and editorial exclusivity matterHow relationships with regional publishers can create new opportunitiesHow can you make your wedding magazine submission stand out? In this special crossover episode of Wedding Day Podcast and the Wedding MBA Podcast, Wedding MBA host Clint Hufft sits down with Sonja Babich, owner and CEO of Iron Diamond Media, to explore how wedding professionals can pursue publication and use editorial features to support their businesses. Ahead of her “Cover Story: How to Get Published” session at the 2026 Wedding MBA Conference, Sonja shares what happens behind the scenes as a media team evaluates, selects and produces wedding content. Before entering publishing, Sonja helped plan more than 500 weddings while working at a Minnesota venue. Her experience deciding where to invest marketing dollars now shapes how she leads Iron Diamond Media, which encompasses seven regional wedding brands, the Minnesota Wedding Show and Wedding Day Podcast. Sonja explains why getting published can help wedding professionals establish credibility, reach clients who align with their brands and connect with potential creative partners. The conversation offers practical advice for assembling a strong submission, from selecting approximately 20 compelling photographs to writing a concise overview and crediting every professional involved. Sonja discusses the importance of showing ceremony and reception details, submitting recent work and preserving exclusivity before publication. She also explains how regional publishers can help wedding professionals identify editorial opportunities and why a feature’s value can extend across print, websites, newsletters and social media. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: Why Mexico has become such a popular destination wedding locationWhat makes Cabo appealing to couples and their guestsWhy destination planners need firsthand knowledge of the locations they serveHow local vendor relationships support a destination celebrationWhat a planner’s industry connections can reveal to engaged couplesHow dining, invitations and entertainment shape the wedding experienceWhy are so many couples choosing destination weddings in Mexico? In this episode of Wedding Day Podcast, Iron Diamond Media owner Sonja Babich, Dan Riggs of Dan Riggs Films and Alexis Sanabria, publisher of California Wedding Day, Washington Wedding Day and Oregon Wedding Day, sit down with Michelle Garibay, owner and planner of Michelle Garibay Events, to discuss Mexico’s growing appeal and what couples should consider when planning a wedding away from home. Approaching her 20th year in the wedding industry, Michelle began planning destination celebrations while living on Oahu during the final years of her husband’s Navy career. Her hospitality experience and relationships with local professionals allowed her to bridge the gap between mainland couples and Hawaii’s wedding community. Today, her destination work increasingly takes her to Mexico, where she continues building firsthand knowledge of venues, local culture and creative partners. Michelle shares why warm weather, exceptional hospitality, convenient travel and overall value make destinations such as Cabo compelling for engaged couples. She also explains why destination expertise cannot be developed from afar, how a planner’s professional relationships can benefit couples and why shared values matter when assembling a wedding team. From plated dinners and paper RSVPs to wedding cakes and live bands, the conversation reveals how thoughtful choices can create a celebration that feels personal, cohesive and effortless for guests. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: What interactive food stations are and how they engage wedding guestsHow to personalize a wedding menu with family recipes and meaningful traditionsWhy creative presentation can make wedding food more memorableHow signature cocktails and mocktails enhance the guest experienceWhy plated service may offer more value than couples expectHow intimate weddings can support elevated dining experiencesIn this episode of Wedding Day Podcast, host Dan Riggs and Carrie Fisher of Wisconsin Bride sit down with Kaelyn Cervero, owner and president of 41Fork Hospitality, and Colleen Mueller, senior sales manager, at Pearl & Cade in downtown Milwaukee. They discuss how interactive food stations, meaningful family recipes, local ingredients and creative beverage service can turn a wedding menu into an experience guests will remember. From tomahawk carving stations and pasta prepared in a cheese wheel to color-changing mocktails and espresso martini towers, Kaelyn and Colleen explain how food and drinks can become part of the entertainment. They also share their perspectives on plated versus buffet service, intimate wedding dining and the thoughtful hospitality choices that can make a celebration feel distinct and personal. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: Whether you need enough wedding cake to serve every guestWhat a kitchen cake is and how it can help serve a larger guest countWhy flavor should come first when choosing your wedding cakeHow wedding cake tastings help couples find the perfect flavorsWhat goes into creating realistic handmade sugar flowersWhy your wedding cake should be part of your reception designDo you need enough wedding cake for every guest? In this episode of Wedding Day Podcast, host Sonja Babich, CEO of Iron Diamond Media, sits down with pastry chef and cake designer Kelsey Ryder of Love More Sweets to discuss wedding cake servings, flavor-forward desserts and how couples can turn their cake into a memorable part of their reception design. After training at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City, Kelsey brought her pastry expertise back home to Omaha, Nebraska, where she combines Midwest charm with the techniques and influences she encountered in New York. She shares how her culinary background shaped her flavor-first approach to wedding cakes, why she considers herself a pastry chef before a cake designer and how her intricate handmade sugar flowers can take several days to create. The conversation also explores what couples should consider when planning their wedding dessert, from starting with a cake tasting and experimenting with unexpected flavor combinations to supplementing a statement cake with kitchen cakes served behind the scenes. Kelsey explains why couples don't necessarily have to make their display cake do all the work—and why treating the wedding cake as both dessert and décor can create a beautiful centerpiece guests will remember long after the celebration ends. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: What to look for when choosing a destination wedding venueWhy the guest experience matters when planning a wedding weekendHow on-site amenities and activities can enhance a destination weddingWhat family-friendly offerings can mean for guests traveling with childrenWhy accommodations are an important part of the wedding weekend experienceHow the right venue can make a wedding feel like a vacation for everyoneWhat should you look for in a destination wedding venue? In this episode of Wedding Day Podcast, Iron Diamond Media owner Sonja Babich sits down with Paul Barbaro, Director of Sales at Grand View Lodge, to explore how couples can think beyond the ceremony and reception when choosing where to celebrate. Located on Gull Lake near Nisswa, Minnesota, Grand View Lodge offers everything from picturesque ceremony locations and a variety of accommodations to dining, boating, golf, spa experiences and family-friendly activities. Paul shares how the resort approaches weddings as a complete guest experience, giving friends and family the opportunity to settle in, spend time together and enjoy a vacation alongside the celebration. Whether you're planning a destination wedding, considering a resort venue or simply want your guests to enjoy more than a single day of festivities, this conversation offers a look at how the right wedding venue can help turn your celebration into an unforgettable weekend. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: What to do if rain is in the forecast on your wedding dayWhy destination weddings require experienced local vendorsHow to create an unforgettable wedding weekend experienceWhy every outdoor wedding needs a weather backup planHow family history shaped one of Oregon's most unique wedding venuesWhat couples should look for when choosing a destination wedding venueWhat happens if it rains on your wedding day? In this episode of Wedding Day Podcast, host Sonja Babich, CEO of Iron Diamond Media, sits down with Kathleen Crook-O'Donnell, president and owner of Crook Point, to discuss destination wedding planning, navigating unpredictable weather and creating unforgettable celebrations along Oregon's breathtaking coastline. As the steward of her family's seventh-generation property, Kathleen shares how Crook Point evolved from a cherished family retreat into one of Oregon's premier destination wedding venues. She reflects on unexpectedly entering the wedding industry, building upon decades of family hospitality and creating a place where couples can celebrate with stunning ocean views, private lodging and immersive weekend experiences. The conversation also explores the realities of planning an outdoor wedding, from preparing for changing coastal weather and building reliable contingency plans to assembling an experienced vendor team that can confidently navigate the unexpected. Kathleen explains why destination weddings are about so much more than a beautiful backdrop—they're about creating meaningful guest experiences, thoughtful logistics and lasting memories that extend far beyond the wedding day. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: Why luxury wedding photography is about more than beautiful imagesWhat truly separates luxury wedding photographers from the restHow photographers and wedding planners work together behind the scenesWhy the "slow burn" is the key to building a successful creative careerHow Gen Z couples are changing the wedding experienceWhy multi-day wedding weekends create richer wedding storiesWhat does it actually mean to book a luxury wedding photographer? In this episode of Wedding Day Podcast, host Sonja Babich, CEO of Iron Diamond Media, sits down with Sarah Anne Thompson, founder of Seattle-based Sarah Anne Thompson, to explore what sets luxury wedding photography apart and why the experience extends far beyond the photos themselves. Known for her timeless, story-driven imagery, Sarah shares how an unexpected internship introduced her to wedding photography after originally pursuing commercial photography. She reflects on nearly leaving the industry after pandemic burnout, the mindset shifts that helped her build a thriving luxury photography business and why embracing the "slow burn" of personal and professional growth has become one of her greatest philosophies. The conversation also dives into the evolving expectations of today's couples, from immersive multi-day wedding weekends and personalized guest experiences to the growing demand for authentic behind-the-scenes storytelling. Sarah explains why close collaboration with wedding planners allows every meaningful detail—from sentimental heirlooms to custom design elements—to be thoughtfully documented, ensuring couples remember not only how their wedding looked, but how it felt. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: How to prepare for your first boudoir sessionWhy boudoir photography is about confidence, not perfectionThe biggest misconceptions about bridal boudoirWhen to give your partner a boudoir albumHow boudoir sessions create stronger wedding-day relationshipsHow do you prepare for a boudoir session if you've never done one before? In this episode of Wedding Day Podcast, host Sonja Babich, CEO of Iron Diamond Media, sits down with Phoenix-based wedding, boudoir and lifestyle photographer Ashley Stone, owner of Ashley Stone Photography, to discuss how boudoir photography can become one of the most empowering experiences leading up to your wedding day. Known for her romantic, emotion-driven imagery, Ashley shares how she helps first-time clients feel comfortable in front of the camera through thoughtful guidance, natural posing and a supportive environment. She explains why boudoir is about much more than creating a meaningful gift for your partner—it's an opportunity to celebrate your confidence, embrace vulnerability and preserve this chapter of your life in an authentic way. The conversation also explores the biggest misconceptions surrounding boudoir photography, why these sessions often strengthen the relationship between photographer and client, and how that trust naturally carries into the wedding day. Ashley also offers practical preparation tips, discusses the emotional impact boudoir can have throughout different seasons of life and shares her advice for when couples should exchange a boudoir album before the wedding. Whether you're considering your first boudoir session, searching for a wedding photographer or simply curious about the experience, this episode offers expert advice and heartfelt insight into confidence, connection and creating photographs that tell your story long after the wedding day. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: What goes into creating custom wedding signage and installationsHow inspiration boards become one-of-a-kind event designsWhy venue logistics play a major role in custom installationsThe behind-the-scenes challenges couples never see on wedding dayHow signage vendors adapt when unexpected problems ariseWhy custom installations can transform the guest experienceWhat does it actually take to create the custom wedding signage and installations that stop guests in their tracks? In this episode of Wedding Day Podcast, host Sonja Babich, CEO of Iron Diamond Media, and co-host Alexis Sanabria, Editorial Director of Washington Wedding Day, sit down with Tamara Berndt, owner of Seattle-based On the Wall Design Studio, to explore the artistry, logistics and problem-solving behind today's most memorable wedding displays. Known for her handcrafted installations and immersive event designs, Tamara shares how a lifelong passion for creating evolved from a side hustle into a thriving signage studio. From teaching herself woodworking and graphic design to continually refining her fabrication process, she explains how every custom piece begins with a couple's vision before becoming a functional work of art built specifically for their celebration. The conversation also dives into the realities couples rarely see—from navigating venue constraints and transportation logistics to making last-minute pivots when unexpected challenges arise. Tamara reflects on balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, the supportive community she's found within the wedding industry and why creating unforgettable guest experiences through thoughtful design continues to inspire her work. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: How to avoid creating a cookie-cutter weddingHow to create visual impact without decorating every single tableWhy great wedding design starts with your story—not PinterestWedding trends couples are embracing beyond traditional receptionsThe power of one dramatic focal pointCreative entertainment ideas your guests won't see comingHow do you create a wedding that feels completely unique when so many celebrations begin to look the same? In this episode of Wedding Day Podcast, host Sonja Babich, CEO of Iron Diamond Media, and co-host Brooke Beise, Publisher of Minnesota Bride, sit down with Rachelle Mazumdar, founder of Style-Architects Weddings, and Anna Mazumdar, lead wedding planner, to explore the intentional design philosophy behind unforgettable weddings. Known for their highly personalized approach to wedding planning and design, Rachelle and Anna explain how they help couples move beyond Pinterest inspiration to create celebrations that genuinely reflect their personalities. From layering linens and floral designs to avoiding the "sea of the same," they share how thoughtful design choices, strategic timelines and immersive guest experiences transform beautiful weddings into memorable ones. The conversation also explores today's biggest wedding trends, including curated after parties, interactive entertainment and statement floral installations, while highlighting the importance of balancing creative vision with meticulous planning. Plus, Rachelle announces her upcoming retirement after 15 years in the wedding industry and shares how she's passing the Style-Architects Weddings legacy to Anna, offering an inspiring look at mentorship, succession and the future of one of Minnesota's most respected wedding planning companies. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Listen to learn: Why more brides are choosing custom wedding dresses over off-the-rack stylesHow bridal gown customization can workHow to set a realistic wedding dress budget without sacrificing qualityWhat couture craftsmanship brings to the bridal shopping experienceWhy personalized bridal appointments make all the differenceIs your dream wedding dress waiting on the rack—or is it waiting to be created? On this episode of the Wedding Day Podcast, Iron Diamond Media Owner Sonja Babich and California Wedding Day, Oregon Wedding Day and Washington Wedding Day Publisher Alexis Sanabria sit down with Mariam Ohanyan, founder, stylist and designer of Mareh Couture, to explore the growing demand for custom wedding dresses and personalized bridal styling. From transforming existing gowns through thoughtful customization to helping brides prioritize timeless design over short-lived trends, Mariam shares how couture craftsmanship and one-on-one service create an unforgettable bridal shopping experience. She also discusses budgeting for a custom gown, the importance of quality construction and why every bride deserves a dress that reflects her unique story. Whether you're beginning your wedding dress search or simply curious about the world of bridal couture, this conversation offers expert insight into finding a gown you'll love for a lifetime. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on custom bridal fashion, wedding dress shopping and creating a look that's authentically you. Support the show Produced by Dan Riggs Films & Summit Hill Studios summithillstudios.com and Iron Diamond Media irondiamondmedia.com