Episode 3: Planning with Clarity with Nicola from The Wedding Planning Lounge

Nicola is an absolute gem when it comes to wedding planning. She’s all about helping couples create a day that feels truly personal and stress-free. In this episode, we chat about how to cut through the noise and stay focused on what really matters.

We cover things like:

• Making decisions based on what you love, not just following trends
• Using your own skills (and getting friends and family involved too) to save money and add a personal touch
• What’s coming for 2025, including bold bridal fashion and more couples going tech-free for the ceremony
• How to use social media for inspiration without falling into the comparison trap

Nicola also shares her SWEPT method which is a really helpful way to plan with a clear head and sense of purpose.

It stands for:

• Style and Stationery: keeping your look consistent from start to finish
• Why: you’re getting married, remembering what it’s really all about
• Elements: picking three things that matter most and putting your focus (and budget) there
• Palette: choosing a couple of key colours and one material to tie it all together
• Theme: Mad-Hatters Party? Peaky Blinders? Whatever your wedding theme, make it blend with your your Palette

If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by Pinterest boards and budget spreadsheets, this one’s well worth a listen.

Episode 2: Finding the Right Photographer — with Jade from Ivy House Photography

I’ll be honest — this was my first ever podcast interview, and I was nervous as heck. I think I eased into it as we went on. But Jade was calm, composed, and totally professional, which tells you everything you need to know about what she brings to a wedding day.

Before we hit record, Jade was even singing joyfully while our producer Steve was setting up the cameras — and that playful, warm energy is just what you want from someone you’ll be spending most of your wedding day with.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Why connection and communication with your photographer are so important
• How Jade keeps couples calm and confident in front of the lens
• The value of honest conversations, trust, and knowing what to expect on the day
• Why choosing your “dream team” of suppliers can make all the difference

Jade’s approach blends documentary style with a hint of editorial beauty — helping you feel totally yourselves while capturing the real magic.

www.ivyhousephotography.co.uk/links