Episode #19: “What to Look for in a Wedding Florist”

Flowers can make or break the look and feel of your wedding day. In this episode, we’re diving into everything you need to know to find the perfect wedding florist—the one who can bring your vision to life while keeping your day stress-free.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Style Alignment – How to choose a florist whose aesthetic matches your wedding vision, whether it’s lush and romantic or minimalist and architectural.
2. Experience with Weddings – Why a florist who understands wedding logistics and venue-specific challenges is worth their weight in gold.
3. Communication & Responsiveness – Tips for finding a florist who listens, offers creative suggestions, and keeps you updated every step of the way.
4. Transparency with Budget – How to make sure your florist is upfront about costs and helps you prioritize what truly makes an impact.
5. Willingness to Collaborate – The importance of working with a florist who communicates seamlessly with your planner and other vendors.
6. Proposals & Mood Boards – How visuals like color palettes and sample blooms help you feel confident your vision is understood.
7. Set-Up, Breakdown & Rentals – What to clarify about delivery, setup, breakdown, and included rentals to avoid surprises.
8. References & Reviews – Why checking past client feedback is crucial for ensuring reliability, creativity, and calm under pressure.

Takeaway:
Your florist is more than just someone who arranges flowers—they’re a key part of your wedding story. Choosing the right one ensures your day is beautiful, joyful, and stress-free, leaving you to focus on the moments and memories that will last a lifetime.

Choosing a wedding venue is one of the most important—and sometimes overwhelming—decisions couples make during the planning process. In this episode of More Than Just a Wedding, Jennifer Starr sits down with Melissa Blase, a seasoned Director of Catering with over a decade of experience in the wedding industry.

Melissa shares her journey from restaurant management to becoming an expert in weddings, offering behind-the-scenes insight into what makes a venue truly special. From budget and guest count considerations to aligning your vision with reality, she breaks down the most common mistakes couples make—and how to avoid them.

You’ll also hear Melissa’s tips on:

• Prioritizing your wedding needs without feeling pressured by trends or “keeping up” with others
• How to choose a venue that fits both your vision and your budget
• The impact a wedding planner can have on your big day
• Catering, menu choices, and creating a memorable guest experience
• How to feel calm and confident throughout the planning process

Whether you’re just starting your venue search or are in the midst of planning, this episode is packed with practical, actionable advice to help you make informed decisions and enjoy every moment of your wedding day.

Connect with Melissa:

• Website: mccormickranchgolfclub.com
  
  
• Email: catering@mccormickranchgolf.com
  
  
• Instagram: @MelissaMRGC

Wedding Venues Made Simple: How to Choose the Right Fit

Choosing a wedding venue can feel overwhelming — so many options, so many opinions, and so many logistics to consider. In this episode, we simplify the process by walking you through the main types of wedding venues and the one key thing to consider for each, so you can confidently choose a space that fits your style, your guests, and your overall wedding vision.

Whether you’re just starting your planning journey or feeling stuck between a few venue options, this episode will help you focus on what really matters and make decisions with clarity instead of stress.

In this episode, we cover:

• Resorts and why they’re ideal for convenience and out-of-town guests
• Golf and country clubs for a classic, traditional wedding experience
• Museums and unique private venues for couples who want something one-of-a-kind
• Dedicated wedding venues and the benefits of built-in expertise
• Private homes for intimate, personal celebrations
• Outdoor venues and what it really takes to plan for logistics and weather

Key takeaway:

Your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding day. The “right” venue isn’t just about how it looks — it’s about how it functions for you, your guests, and the experience you want to create.

Helpful reminder:

Before booking a venue, think about:

• Your guest experience
• How hands-on you want to be with planning
• Your flexibility with vendors, décor, and timelines

When you choose a venue that aligns with those priorities, the rest of your wedding planning becomes much easier.

Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next time for more practical, stress-free wedding planning tips.