Now That I'm Engaged, How Do I Get Married

In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin Dennis sits down with Nezhdeh Parsanj of Opus Event Rentals to talk about one of the most impactful yet often overlooked parts of wedding design: rentals and the role they play in shaping the overall guest experience.With more than a decade of experience in event operations and design, Nezhdeh shares how thoughtful rental selections can completely transform a space, elevate the atmosphere, and help couples create weddings that feel memorable and intentional. From specialty lounge furniture and custom dance floors to large-scale installations such as pool covers and fabric structures, he explains that rentals go far beyond simply filling a room with tables and chairs.The conversation dives into how couples can strategically prioritize their rental budget, why guest experience has become one of the biggest wedding trends, and how small design choices can often create a bigger impact than couples realize. Nezhdeh also shares behind-the-scenes insight into event logistics, vendor coordination, and why communication between planners, rental companies, caterers, and other vendors is critical to keeping wedding days running smoothly.You’ll also hear practical advice on when couples should bring rental companies into the planning process, common mistakes people make when selecting rentals, and how to balance a dream design vision with real-world timelines and venue limitations.If you’ve ever wondered how weddings are transformed into immersive experiences, questioned which design elements are actually worth the investment, or wanted a better understanding of what happens behind the scenes to bring an event to life, this episode offers an inside look into the world of wedding rentals and event design.Nezhdeh Parsanj is the owner and lead event designer at Opus Event Rentals, a Southern California–based event rental company specializing in corporate events, live productions, and private celebrations. With over a decade of experience in event operations and design, Nezhdeh helps clients bring events to life through thoughtful planning, reliable execution, and high-quality rentals.Highlights • How rentals can completely transform a wedding space • Why guest experience is shaping modern wedding design • The difference between functional rentals and impactful design pieces • How to prioritize your rental budget strategically • Common mistakes couples make when selecting rentals • Why vendor communication and logistics matter so much behind the scenes • When couples should bring rental companies into the planning process • Current wedding rental and event design trends couples are lovingConnect with Nezhdeh: Website InstagramFacebook LinkedIn Connect with Kevin & August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin Dennis and August Yocher sit down with Julian Ribinik of Julian Ribinik Studios to break down one of the biggest decisions couples make when building their wedding vendor team: choosing between boutique vendors and larger companies.Julian shares why the conversation is more nuanced than couples may realize, explaining that “large” doesn’t always mean experienced and “boutique” doesn’t always mean small. Together, they unpack how communication, personal connection, consistency, and trust all play major roles in shaping the wedding experience, especially when couples may not know who will be there on the wedding day.The conversation dives into the pros and cons of both approaches, including the advantages of personalized service, the realities of larger multi-team companies, and why understanding a vendor’s process matters just as much as their portfolio. Julian also shares practical advice on the questions couples should ask during the booking process, the importance of knowing who will actually be handling your event, and why strong communication often matters more than trends or aesthetics.You’ll also hear an honest discussion about pricing, associate teams, referrals, and how couples can identify the vendors who truly align with their priorities and personalities.If you’ve ever wondered whether a boutique vendor or a larger company is the right fit for your wedding, this episode will help you better understand the differences and make more confident decisions when building your team.Julian Ribinik is the owner and creative director of Julian Ribinik Studios, a boutique wedding photography and cinematography studio based in New York City. Originally learning photography alongside his father in the former USSR, Julian developed a documentary-style approach rooted in emotion, instinct, and storytelling. Together with his wife, Evgenia, he has built a studio known for creating imagery that blends honesty with elegance and candid moments with an editorial eye.Highlights • The difference between boutique vendors and larger wedding companies • Why personal connection matters when choosing your vendors • The risks of not knowing who will actually show up on your wedding day • Questions couples should ask during the booking process • The pros and cons of associate teams and larger vendor companies • Why communication and trust matter more than trends • How referrals and vendor relationships impact your experience • What couples should prioritize when building their wedding vendor teamConnect with Julian: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Connect with Kevin & August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin Dennis and August Yocher sit down with Tanya Pushkine to break down one of the most overlooked parts of wedding planning: the ceremony.While many couples focus on the reception, Tanya shares why the ceremony is actually the emotional foundation of the entire day and often the moment guests remember most. She unpacks common misconceptions, including the tendency to rush through the ceremony or treat it as a formality, and offers practical guidance on how to approach it with more intention.The conversation also covers when to start planning, how to write meaningful vows, and how to navigate public speaking nerves. You’ll also hear insights on choosing between a professional officiant or a friend or family member, and how to create a ceremony that truly reflects your relationship. If you want your wedding to feel more personal, memorable, and true to you, this episode will help you approach your ceremony with more confidence.Tanya Pushkine is the founder of The Vow Whisperer, where she creates personalized wedding ceremonies and helps couples write and deliver their vows with confidence. Before entering the wedding industry, Tanya had a career in acting, studying at The Juilliard School and performing on Broadway before transitioning into the corporate world, where she held leadership roles with major brands like LVMH, Sephora, and L’Oréal.After her own wedding, Tanya was inspired to combine her background in storytelling, performance, and communication to create a new niche in the wedding industry. Today, she works with couples around the world to craft meaningful ceremony experiences, officiates weddings, and coaches friends and family members to lead ceremonies and speeches with confidence. Based in New York City, Tanya works internationally and in multiple languages.Highlights:• Why the ceremony is often the most overlooked part of the wedding day • How your ceremony shapes guest experience and lasting memories • Common mistakes couples make when planning their ceremony • When to start planning your ceremony and writing your vows • Tips for writing meaningful vows and managing public speaking nerves • The pros and cons of having a professional officiant vs. a friend or family memberConnect with Tanya: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Connect with Kevin & August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin Dennis and August Yocher sit down with Shannon Tarrant of Wedding Venue Map to answer one of the biggest questions couples face: where should you actually look for your wedding vendors?With so many options today (social media, national directories, referrals, and local platforms) it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Shannon breaks down how couples are really searching, what’s actually helpful, and where things can quickly go off track.The conversation covers how to use platforms like Instagram and TikTok wisely, why local knowledge matters, and how to spot trustworthy vendors. Shannon also shares why your venue’s preferred vendor list is often overlooked—but can be one of your most valuable tools.If you’re starting your planning journey or feeling stuck in the research phase, this episode will help you simplify the process and search with more confidence.Shannon Tarrant is the co-founder of Wedding Venue Map, a Central Florida-based wedding venue search engine that helps couples find the perfect place to say “I do.” With nearly two decades in the wedding industry, she’s passionate about connecting couples with trusted local experts and making the planning process feel a whole lot less overwhelming.Highlights:• Where couples actually start their vendor search• The pros and limitations of national wedding platforms• How to use social media without getting overwhelmed• Why local expertise can make a big difference• What to look for when evaluating vendors• The value of your venue’s preferred vendor list• How to narrow down options without over-researchingConnect with Shannon: WebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInConnect with Kevin & August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, August Yocher sits down with returning guest and wedding planner Elena Markwood to talk about the small wedding day details couples often forget — from ceremony seating signs and easels to emergency kit items and last-minute problem solvers.Drawing from her experience as a planner and former venue professional, Elena shares practical insight into the functional items that are easy to overlook during the planning process, especially once stress starts to build in the final few weeks before the wedding. From cake knives and guest book pens to signage displays and reserved ceremony seating, she explains why these little details matter more than couples often realize and how they can impact both logistics and guest experience.They also talk about the importance of thinking beyond the aesthetic, how to prepare decor so it’s truly wedding-day ready, and which emergency items Elena reaches for most often on event days. From floral wire and screwdrivers to packing tape and mints, this episode is packed with thoughtful advice to help couples feel more organized, more confident, and better prepared.If you want to avoid common oversights and feel more ready for the practical side of wedding day setup, this episode offers helpful planning tips that can make a big difference.Elena Markwood is the owner and lead wedding planner of Adoration Weddings & Events. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, she now calls Columbus, Ohio home (thanks in part to the Columbus boy she married). When she's not bringing love stories to life, you’ll find her singing on the worship team at her church, curled up reading a rom-com with a cup of tea, or exploring the city with her husband, Wes, and handsome pup, Ollie.Highlights• Wedding day items couples often forget until the last minute• Why reserved ceremony seating and signage matter more than couples think• The importance of easels, cake items, and other functional decor pieces• Why open seating can create guest experience challenges• Emergency kit items planners actually use on wedding days• How to make sure decor is truly wedding-day ready• Why a planner or coordinator helps couples avoid common oversightsConnect with Elena:Decor List FreebieWebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramConnect with Kevin & August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin Dennis and August Yocher sit down with seasoned wedding planner Tabitha Roberts of Roberts & Co. Events for an honest and insightful conversation about tradition versus trend and how couples can navigate the emotional landmines that come with both.With over 16 years in the wedding industry, Tabitha has seen it all — from the rise of Pinterest to the shift away from rigid etiquette rules — and she shares what’s changed, what still matters, and where couples often feel the most pressure. From social media comparisons to parental expectations (especially when parents are footing the bill), this episode dives into how to balance honoring tradition while still planning a wedding that feels authentic and true to you.They talk about how weddings involve multiple stakeholders with layered expectations, why communication and boundaries with family are essential, and how certain traditions — like cake cutting, parent dances, and formal invitations — can be adapted rather than eliminated. Tabitha also shares how outdated etiquette continues to cause confusion, and why hospitality, guest experience, and thoughtful planning will never go out of style.If you’re feeling torn between what you see online, what your family expects, and what you actually want, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and practical advice for planning your wedding your way — without unnecessary stress or guilt.With over 16 years of event planning experience, Tabitha has grown Roberts & Co into a company that thrives in creating and experiencing hospitality in its highest form. Working to always be transparent and upfront with her clients, their company is built on making planning less work and more enjoyable for everyone!Highlights• How to balance tradition and modern wedding trends• Navigating parental expectations — especially when they’re contributing financially• Why social media can create unrealistic wedding comparisons• Which etiquette rules still matter (and which are evolving)• How to communicate boundaries without damaging relationships• Why embracing trends that reflect your personality is perfectly okayConnect with Tabitha:WebsiteInstagramFacebookTikTokLinkedInConnect with Kevin & August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin Dennis and August Yocher sit down with Steven Burchard, owner of Magical Memories Entertainment, to talk about what “event needs” really mean and why understanding them early can lead to a smoother day and fewer misunderstandings with vendors.Steven explains how weddings are made up of dozens of moving parts beyond décor and aesthetics, and why couples often underestimate how much coordination it takes to make everything feel effortless. From timelines and location changes to small “nitty gritty” moments couples don’t want to miss, he shares where miscommunication tends to happen and how proactive planning (plus the right vendor team) can prevent stress for everyone involved.They also dive into the importance of asking vendors about their planning process, building a realistic timeline that can flex, and knowing when to communicate early… then trust your team later. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the pieces of a wedding day, this conversation brings clarity and helps couples feel more confident in the decisions they’re making.Steven Burchard is the owner of Magical Memories Entertainment, a full-service event entertainment company known for helping couples plan with intention, communicate clearly, and create celebrations that feel seamless from start to finish.Highlights Why “event needs” go far beyond décor and aesthetics The most common wedding-day misunderstandings between couples and vendors Why planning processes matter more than couples realize Timeline management: why it shapes how the day feels (not just how it runs) How to communicate early, avoid last-minute changes, and reduce stress Why trusting your vendor team is just as important as hiring themConnect with Steven: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Connect with Kevin & August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin Dennis and August Yocher sit down with Jordan Roepke, award-winning wedding photographer and videographer, to unpack one of the most confusing parts of wedding planning: budgeting.Jordan shares why most couples feel sticker shock when they start planning—and why that’s completely normal. Together, they break down the difference between “one-size-fits-all” budget advice and a values-based approach that prioritizes what actually matters to you as a couple. From photography and DJs to guest experience and expectations set by social media, this conversation helps couples understand where their money makes the biggest impact.They also dive into why booking key vendors early matters, how experience often outweighs aesthetics, and the hard truth behind the phrase “you get what you pay for.” Jordan offers practical examples, real-world perspective, and reassurance for couples who want a meaningful wedding without blindly following tradition.Jordan Roepke is an award-winning wedding photographer and videographer based in Nashville, Tennessee, traveling nationwide to create artful, adventurous, and epic imagery for couples who want photos that go beyond ordinary.HighlightsWhy wedding budgets often feel confusing and overwhelmingWhat “pay for what you value” really means in practiceHow social media can distort wedding expectationsWhere couples commonly under-invest (and later regret it)The importance of booking experienced vendors earlyHow to prioritize meaning over comparisonConnect with Jordan:WebsiteInstagramFacebookTikTokLinkedInConnect with Kevin & August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

Why does mailing wedding invitations feel so stressful, and how can couples avoid common mistakes?In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin and August sit down with Jaime Coast, watercolor artist and stationery designer behind Cotton & Bow, to demystify the wedding invitation mailing process.Jaime explains why couples often feel overwhelmed by invitation timelines, postage, and delivery concerns, and why the traditional six-to-eight-week rule no longer applies. She shares updated guidance on when to send invitations, especially for destination weddings, and highlights common mistakes that can lead to delays or added costs—like wax seals on outer envelopes, underestimated weight, and counterfeit stamps.Jaime has been designing stationery since 2017 for couples looking to illustrate their love stories. She lives in Westchester, NY, with her husband and two girls. Cotton & Bow ships worldwide, with couples having a local or destination wedding.HighlightsWhy mailing invitations feels intimidating and how to simplify itThe updated timeline for sending wedding invitationsCommon mailing mistakes that can cause delays or added costsHow invitation weight, size, and embellishments affect postageBest practices for addressing envelopes and avoiding delivery issuesWhen tracking invitations makes senseTips for mailing international invitations safelyHow to spot and avoid counterfeit stampsConnect with Jaime: Jaime’s Mailing GuideWebsiteInstagramFacebookPinterestTikTokLinkedInVintage Stamp Dealers: Enfield PostChampion StampLittle Postage HouseConnect with Kevin & August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin and August wrap up 2025 by reflecting on a year of growth, standout conversations, and the wedding planning insights couples found most helpful.They look back on their most-played episodes, discuss recurring themes like guest experience and wedding-morning timelines, and highlight why thoughtful planning—and the right team of wedding professionals—can make all the difference. The conversation also touches on non-traditional ideas, using AI as a planning tool (not a replacement for wedding pros), weather considerations for outdoor weddings, and how pop-culture moments can influence wedding trends.As they head into 2026, Kevin and August share what’s next for the podcast and their goal to build even more community and listener engagement in the year ahead.Highlights27 episodes in 2025, up from 17 the year beforeFan-favorite episodes and guest takeawaysWhy guest experience matters throughout the dayThe importance of planning your wedding morningNon-traditional ideas couples are embracingAI as a helpful starting point—not a substitute for prosWeather planning and outdoor wedding considerationsLooking ahead to more episodes and community in 2026Connect with Kevin and August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin and August sit down with Cherri Maley, General Manager of Messina Inn in Texas Hill Country. As a Certified Meeting and Event Planner and Certified Wedding Coordinator, Cherri brings a rare combination of logistical expertise, hospitality leadership, and heartfelt dedication to every celebration. Beyond running one of Wimberley’s most loved wedding destinations, she also serves as Chair of the Lodging & Event Section for the Wimberley Valley Chamber of Commerce—leading the region’s annual Venue Crawl, the largest wedding venue showcase of its kind in Texas.Drawing on years of experience guiding couples through the all-inclusive planning process, Cherri breaks down what these packages actually include, why they’re so appealing to today’s engaged couples, and how to personalize them so your day still feels uniquely you. She shares how to spot hidden costs in contracts, work effectively with a venue’s preferred vendor team, and understand seasonal considerations—especially in Texas, where weather can determine everything from availability to ceremony timing.Whether you’re overwhelmed by vendor research, trying to compare packages “apples to apples,” or simply craving a stress-free planning experience, Cherri offers practical, clear-eyed guidance that helps couples prioritize what truly matters.HighlightsConvenience meets clarity: Why couples love the simplicity of having lodging, catering, décor, and vendor coordination bundled in one place.Who it’s right for: Understanding the ideal client for an all-inclusive venue—especially couples craving ease, structure, and less decision fatigue.Customization matters: How to personalize packages with meaningful details, even when many services are included.Knowing what you’re signing: Contract tips to avoid hidden fees, unexpected upgrades, or mismatched expectations.Texas timing: How seasonal weather patterns affect dates, availability, and what’s realistically possible outdoors.Vendor harmony: Why a cohesive, venue-curated vendor team can make or break the guest experience.Budget confidence: How all-inclusive packages simplify financial planning and help couples stay within budget.Misconceptions debunked: What couples often get wrong about all-inclusive venues—and how to compare packages fairly.No matter where you are in your planning journey, Cherri’s blend of professional insight and genuine hospitality will help you understand the true value of all-inclusive wedding packages. Her advice empowers couples to make confident decisions, avoid stress, and design a celebration that reflects their priorities—without getting lost in the details.Connect with Cherri: WebsiteInstagram Facebook LinkedInConnect with Kevin and August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

In this special “Taylor-era” episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin sits down with co-host August Yocher, Susan Stremlau, Owner and Creative Director of Marion Moss Floral Design & Farm, and Ariana Teachey, Founder of Ariana Teachey | Virtual Assistant, to talk all things Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce.From engagement-day reactions to predictions about the date, aesthetic, and overall vibe of the wedding, this Swiftie roundtable dives deep into what could become the most talked-about event of the decade and how it will influence real-world wedding trends.Susan brings over four decades of floral design experience and a love for lush, romantic, nature-inspired arrangements, while Ariana offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on wedding pros, organization, and creative storytelling. Together, they join Kevin and August to explore everything from potential guest experiences and hidden Easter eggs to the cultural impact of this “royal couple” moment.HighlightsWhere they were when the engagement news broke The date debate: fall timeline vs. football season realityNumerology, symbolism, and Swift’s signature attention to meaningAesthetic predictions: timeless vintage, secret garden romance, and Renaissance flairWhy this engagement is huge for the wedding industry and how it may shift trends for yearsThe balance of fame and privacy: intimate vows vs. all-star celebrationHow Taylor and Travis model modern partnership and mutual respectFavorite songs from the new album (and what they reveal about her creative mindset)Connect with Susan: WebsiteInstagramFacebookPinterestConnect with Ariana: WebsiteInstagram FacebookConnect with Kevin and August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn

In this episode of Now That I’m Engaged, How Do I Get Married?, Kevin and August sit down with Julian Ribinik, an award-winning wedding photographer, Creative Director of Julian Ribinik Studios, and founder of BioPrime Wellness. With nearly two decades behind the lens, Julian shares how thoughtful planning upfront leads to a calmer wedding day and images you truly love.From defining how you want the day to feel to vetting photographers for venue conditions and lighting, Julian breaks down simple, high-impact steps to get the most out of your photography experience without sacrificing presence or joy. He offers the key questions to ask in consults, why an engagement session doubles as a stress-saving rehearsal, and how to separate Instagram polish from real-world skill.Highlights:Why starting with “How do we want to feel?” sets every other decision up for successThe essential questions to ask: venue familiarity, similar conditions, and site visitsFull galleries over grids: what to look for across ceremony, reception, and dance floorRange over one look: handling harsh sun, candlelight, dark churches/ballroomsEngagement sessions as a dress rehearsal for chemistry, posing, and expectationsWhen (and why) to add second shooters for multi-venue, multi-day, or cultural eventsProfessionalism that keeps you calm: early arrival, patience, and positive energy“Editorial” vs. “documentary” explained - and why portraits aren’t truly candidDon’t be fooled by follower counts or paid “as seen in” badges. Evidence mattersNo matter what type of wedding you're planning, Julian’s practical, peace-first approach will help you plan ahead with purpose, so you can be present and walk away with photos that feel like you.Connect with Julian: WebsiteInstagram Facebook TikTokLinkedInConnect with Kevin and August: WebsiteInstagramYoutubeTikTokPinterestLinkedIn