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This week on 52 'Til I Do, we’re serving up something special—an interview with Duce Raymond of Sweet Baby Ray’s, True Cuisine, and Duce’s Wild BBQ! If you’ve been listening for a while, you already know Amethyst was very excited for this one. We’re breaking down the wedding catering process from start to finish, including when to book, how to build your menu, what tastings really look like, and how to make sure your catering team is fully prepped to deliver on the big day. Whether you’re dreaming of elevated comfort food, family-style favorites, or a show-stopping plated dinner, this episode will help you feel confident and hungry (in a good way). Don't forget to follow Duce @duceraymond for more great tips! 

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This week, we’re joined by our wedding besties Nicole and Isabel from The Still Life Photography for a candid and super helpful conversation all about working with your wedding photographer. We break down the must-have info you need to share ahead of the big day—from timelines to family dynamics—and dive into how to create a thoughtful, realistic shot list that captures the moments that matter most. Whether you’re going full editorial or keeping things documentary-style, this episode is packed with tips to help you and your photographer feel prepped, aligned, and inspired.

The Still Life Photography | @thestilllifephotos

Isabel Feldhause Photography | @isabelfeldhausphotography

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This week we’re talking all things custom suiting and tuxing with the talented Katie DeGrazia. From fabrics and fit to options for every body and why custom doesn't always mean out-of-budget, Katie breaks down what it means to create a suit that’s made just for you. Whether you're the one walking down the aisle or dressing to support someone who is, this episode is all about empowerment, inclusivity, and feeling your best in what you wear.

Get in touch with Katie by visiting her link tree or sending her an email katie.degrazia@jhillburnpartner.com. 

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You've made it through the first big chapters of wedding planning—venue booked, major vendors secured—and now it’s time to dive into the next phase. In this episode, we’re wrapping up Phase 2 and officially kicking off Phase 3 with everything you need to know about what’s coming next.

From common pitfalls to avoid, to the logistics you’re getting ready to share, this is the part where your plans really start taking shape. We’ll guide you through what to prioritize, what shifts in this next phase, and how to keep moving forward with clarity and confidence.

Not quite ready to start Phase 3? No problem! Take a pause, relisten to past vendor episodes, and jump back in when the time is right.

🎁 Don’t forget to grab our free downloadable to help you stay organized, inspired and totally in love with the process! 

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We might be a little biased on this one, so we brought in backup. In this episode, we’re joined by Kait from Celebrait by Kait to talk all things coordination vs. planning, navigating tricky family dynamics, and why a wedding coordinator is one of the most important investments you can make for your big day.

From timeline management to emotional support, Kait shares honest insights from the coordination side and how having a day-of expert can make a massive difference in your experience. Whether you're a DIY couple or working with a full planning team, this episode breaks down what a coordinator actually does—and how they advocate for you.

Get in touch with Kait and her team by visiting her website or following her on Instagram @celebraitbykait.

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This week on 52 'Til I Do, we’re talking all things wedding transportation—because getting from point A to “I do” isn’t always as simple as it sounds. This is your go-to guide for making sure everyone gets where they need to be—on time. We’re covering when to book, how to plan routes for multiple locations, what to ask your transportation vendors, and how to avoid common (and costly) mistakes. Whether you’re thinking party bus, vintage car, or good old-fashioned Uber, we’ve got the tips you need to make sure the only thing late is the sunset.

Check out our favorite transportation vendors in Chicago and the Chicago-Suburbs.

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This week on 52 'Til I Do, we’re putting pen to (very pretty) paper with Nicole from Emery Ann Design! Whether you're eyeing semi-custom styles or dreaming up something totally unique, Nicole walks us through everything you need to know about designing your wedding invitations and full stationery suite.

We’re covering it all—from timelines and design tips to what goes where, when to send what, and how to gracefully navigate guest list etiquette (yes, even when it’s complicated). This episode isn’t just about making your invitations beautiful—it’s about making sure they say what they need to say, the right way.

If you’re starting to plan your wedding stationery, this is your official invitation to tune in.

Connect with Nicole by visiting here website or following her on Instagram @emeryanndesign.

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“We’ve officially hit the halfway mark in 52 'Til I Do—and maybe in your planning journey too!” In this episode, we’re covering everything you need to know about planning your rehearsal dinner and day-after brunch: who to invite, when to host, where to hold it, and how to make these gatherings feel intentional. Whether you're keeping it casual or going full-on formal, we've got ideas and insider tips to help you make it yours.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Tonia Koss, founder of Preaisle, to talk about a part of wedding prep that often gets overlooked—but might just be one of the most valuable investments you can make. We dig into what marriage coaching is, how it helps couples build stronger communication and connection before the big day, and why planning for your marriage deserves just as much attention as planning your wedding. Connect with Tonia @preaisle.

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The ceremony may be one of the most overlooked parts of your wedding day—but it’s also one of the most meaningful. In this episode, we’re joined by Michael Vargas of Hitched by MV to dive into what makes a ceremony feel personal, grounded, and unforgettable. From writing your own vows to creating a flow that feels authentic to your relationship, we cover the elements that matter most.

If you're asking a friend or family member to officiate, this is a must-listen. Michael shares expert tips to help non-professional officiants feel confident and prepared—because your ceremony deserves more than just winging it.

Follow Michael on Instagram at @hitchedbymv for more inspiration and guidance.

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Episode 23 is all about the sparkle—and the strategy. From wedding rings to veils (and veil alternatives!), ties and tux accessories to statement earrings and comfy wedding shoes, we’re diving into everything you need to know about styling your wedding day look. Whether you’re going classic, bold, budget-conscious, or completely non-traditional, this episode will help you explore your options with confidence. We cover materials, price points, heirloom ideas, and how to make each accessory feel personal. Because just like every other part of your wedding—this is about what you want. No rules, just possibilities. Don't forget to read along with our blog and as promised, here are Amethyst's comfy (and favorite) wedding day shoe recommendations! Sneakers ,Boots with a Wedge (silver), Boots with a Wedge (white), Open Toe Wedges

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Let’s talk wedding day fun. In this episode, we’re diving into all the entertainment-focused elements that can elevate your guest experience—think photo booths, live painters, tarot card readers, typewriter poets, and beyond. From the trendy to the totally personal, we’re exploring what’s out there and how to choose what feels right for your celebration.

We’re sharing unique entertainment ideas, talking about why the guest experience matters, and offering tips on how to weave your own interests into the day. Just as importantly, we’re reminding you that you don’t have to include anything that doesn’t speak to you—this is about making the day feel authentic and enjoyable for everyone, especially you.

Whether you’re going all-in on interactive elements or just beginning to think about how to surprise and delight your guests, this episode is packed with ideas to help you personalize your celebration. Don't forget to read along with our blog!

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You’ve booked your photographer, but what about video? In this episode of 52 ‘Til I Do, we’re diving into all things wedding videography—what it is, what to expect, and why it’s different (but just as important!) as photography.

We’re talking through common videography package types, the importance of understanding the vibe (rather than getting caught up in technical terms), and the key questions to ask a videographer that are totally different from what you'd ask a photographer. Throughout the episode, we reference Episode 11 on photography—so if you haven’t listened to that one yet, it’s a great companion.

Whether you're on the fence about booking a videographer or want to feel confident in your choice, this episode will help you make an informed decision and capture the kind of memories you’ll actually want to replay.

New here? Go back and listen to Episode 11 for a deeper dive into wedding photography tips!

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In this week’s episode of 52 ‘Til I Do, we’re talking all things grooming and glow-ups with special guest Rae Hopkins, esthetician and founder of Beauty Commons. From facials and waxing to manicures and spray tans, we’re covering the most popular pre-wedding treatments for marrieres, brides, grooms, and everyone in between.

Whether you're aiming for radiant skin or want to avoid last-minute mishaps (like a patchy tan or irritated brows), Rae shares expert advice on when to schedule your services, what to do—and what to skip—before the big day, and how to build a self-care timeline that actually works.

To learn more about Rae or book a service, visit her website or follow her on Instagram at @beauty_commons and @rae_does_beauty

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Your wedding day look starts long before the big day. In this episode, we’re diving into how to find and secure the right hair and makeup artist (HAMU) for your wedding—someone who not only understands your vision, but knows how to bring it to life under pressure.

We’re breaking down what to look for when searching for your HAMU artist, from communication style and portfolio variety to experience with your hair type or skin tone. We’ll also cover when to book, how to prep for your trial, and key red and green flags to watch for during the process—so you can feel confident in your choice.

Whether you're glam-forward or going for an elevated natural look, this episode will help you feel confident and camera-ready—without the last-minute scrambling.

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From Pinterest boards to place settings, this week we're diving into all things wedding decor and tablescapes. Whether you're dreaming of living centerpieces, minimalist decor, or eclectic personal touches, we’ll help you figure out how to bring your vision to life.

In this episode, we’re talking about how to choose decor that reflects your relationship, how to build a cohesive look, trends we're seeing in the industry and a brand new 52 'Til I Do game debut. We’ll also break down rentals, DIY options, and what to expect when it comes to setup.

If you’re planning your wedding and want a thoughtful, personalized celebration, this one's for you. 

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This week, we’re stopping and smelling the literal roses with an episode all about wedding flowers. Whether you're hiring a florist, going the DIY route, or exploring faux floral options, we’re covering it all. Tune in for helpful flower education, real wedding stories, budget-friendly tips, and guidance on how to choose the best floral approach for your day. From seasonal blooms to centerpiece strategy, this episode will help you make floral decisions with confidence—without getting overwhelmed by the petals and price tags.

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In this episode, we’re talking about the unique energy that live musicians and DJs bring to a wedding. From ceremony vibes to dance floor energy, we’re breaking down what each option offers and how to choose the right fit for your style, budget, and guest experience. Whether you’re torn between a string quartet or a high-energy DJ, this episode will help you make a confident decision, and spoiler alert, you can have both!

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With endless options for your wedding day menu, we're here to talk all things bar, bakery, late-night snacks, and apps! From signature cocktails to dessert displays and crowd-pleasing bites, this episode covers what to consider, how to prioritize, and tips for bringing flavor and fun to every part of your celebration.

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From plated dinners to buffet spreads and family-style feasts, there’s more to wedding catering than just picking a menu. In this episode, we’re breaking down the different meal service styles, key things to consider when sourcing a caterer, and how to balance budget, logistics, and guest experience. Whether you're dreaming of a formal sit-down dinner or a laid-back food truck vibe, we’ve got the insights to help you make the best choice for your big day!

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On today’s episode of 52 'Til I Do, we’re talking about the good kind of STDs… save the dates! From wedding websites to registries, we’re covering what couples should (and shouldn’t) include, plus practical tips for wording and timing. Whether you're wondering when to send them or how to handle tricky guest list situations, we’ve got you covered.

Be sure to check out our blog and our affiliate links for Zazzle and Minted.

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We are here with another *potentially* time sensitive task: securing your hotel block! Securing a hotel block before sending out save the dates can be extremely beneficial—there will always be a percentage of guests that want to book their hotel accommodations the second they receive their save the date.  

Join us and our special guest Steven Sheldon (listen for his official title) as we discuss all of our insider tips for securing your hotel block and some bonus honeymoon tips! 

Get in contact with Steven Sheldon
Website
Facebook
email: Steven.Sheldon@LuxRallyTravel.com
cell: 508-282-1524 

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Photography is a big priority for many couples. In this episode, we’re breaking down how to find a photographer who gets you, what to ask before you book, and why it’s about more than just pretty pictures. We’ll also cover photography styles, budgeting, and things watch out for—so you can book with confidence! Read along on our blog!

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This week we are kicking off Phase 2 of wedding planning with our first time sensitive task: ATTIRE! 

Did you know it can take 10-12 months for your wedding gown to arrive? If a custom suit or tux is more your style, that takes time too! Getting a head start now will save you time, effort and dollars. 

Listen along to 52 'Til I Do  and read along with our blog to learn more about where to begin! 

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The end of Phase 1 is officially marked by securing your wedding venue and wedding date. Congratulations, you are stepping into Phase 2! On this week's episode of 52 'Til I Do we will cover an overview of what to expect in Phase 2 with the actionable step of force ranking your desired vendors. Follow along with our free downloadable and read along on our blog! 

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