Blog
The journey to the wedding day may be a winding one. I’m happy to share some tips and tricks along the way. I continually offer ways to strengthen your relationship, and provide additional resources & tools. Scroll on down, and click on a post that interests you. The comments are always open, and I would love to know what you think!
Vendors I Love: Nicki Fietzer of DE NUEVA PHOTOGRAPHY
I not only get to work with couples during a very special time of their lives, but have the opportunity to collaborate with some wonderful wedding professionals. Nicki is one amazing photographer. I am so excited to shine some well-deserved light on NICKI FIETZER of DE NUEVA PHOTOGRAPHY!
How to Officiate a Friend’s Wedding
While officiating a friend's ceremony is a special honor, it can also be overwhelming. Here are some tips to get you started. I regularly offer Ceremony Consultation for “friend or family officiants”. So, I can offer assistance whenever you may need it.
Gratituesday 12.29.20 - Farewell, 2020
I really wanted to say “Good Riddance, 2020. Don’t let the door hit you on the way out!” However, this amazingly challenging year, was a huge year for growth. Yes, there was a ton of really crappy things, but also lots of good, as well. And so I just say “Farewell, 2020.”
What is the ZEN BRIDE WORKSHOP?
Early in my pre-marital practice, one my brides shared some issues and emotions out of scope of the curriculum. I attempted to address her waves of emotions and conflicted thoughts around her change of identity with her fiancé present. However, I soon realized that it was not about him, and I needed to work with her individually. Welcome to THE ZEN BRIDE.
Vendors I Love: JAKUB REDZINIAK PHOTOGRAPHY
I’ve been working with Jakub on Central Park weddings since 2017. It's always such a pleasure to work with him as he comes with great ideas and a positive attitude! Without further ado, I'd love for you to meet, JAKUB REDZINIAK!
Premarital Counseling: BELIEFS & VALUES
We formulate our values and beliefs as we grow up and experience life. Some beliefs are passed down from our families and some values we pick up along the way. It’s imperative to have an open and honest conversation about your beliefs and values with your partner before marriage.
Gratituesday 12.15.20 - Unconditional Giving
It’s the season of GIVING. I watched One Night Only The Best of Broadway on NBC.com. One of the songs included was “When You’re Good to Mama” from Chicago. I really am a giving person, and I don’t need validation about that. However, in the back of my head, I think “what’s in it for me?”
Wedding Yoga: Pranayama or Yogic Breath (part 1)
Yogic Breathing is the foundation of our yoga practice. I talk about deep breathing or meditating to find Zen and relaxation, especially as you plan your wedding. However, I rarely take a deep dive into pranayama.
Gratituesday 12.8.20 - Looking Back, Moving Forward
It’s hard to believe that it’s December. Time was relative this year. At times I felt stuck, and at others it felt like we were speeding along. I really like to take stock in December, and figure out where I’ve been and where I want to go.
4 Mistakes Couples Make When Planning a Microwedding
In our current climate, most wedding couples are going small. But smaller doesn't necessarily mean it will be easier. Here are four common mistakes couples make when planning micro (or mini) weddings -- and how to avoid them.
Vendors I Love: Sarah from SMALL SHINDIGS
Weddings during COVID have forced us to think small. However, Sarah already catered to intimate events, and has such a vast amount of knowledge of the importance of the details. Without further ado, I am so excited to introduce you to Sarah Carroll of SMALL SHINDIGS!
Zen Weddings: PRIORITIZE SELF CARE
Wedding planning isn’t just time-consuming—at times it can feel downright overwhelming. Self-care is an extremely important component of daily life, that many often forget. However, prioritizing “me time” can bring a sense of Zen to the wedding planning process.
Gratituesday 11.24.20 - Thank you!
I’ve been dinged for saying ‘thank you’ too much. When I was a manager at a restaurant in Berkeley, CA one of my staff members from Ireland used to repeat “thanks” every time I said it. It was if to say, ‘gosh, you say thanks, a lot!’ This week all bets are off, as it’s THANKSGIVING on Thursday.
Premarital Counseling: PARENTING and CHILD RAISING
Amazingly some couples never discuss whether they are on the same page about having kids. If you want kids, but your partner does not, is that a deal breaker in the relationship? Since this is not an area one can compromise, that needs to be the first discussion. We can certainly do that in premarital counseling!
Inside a Zoom Wedding
I thought that Zoom weddings would be super impersonal and administrative. However, I was pleasantly surprised just how simple yet meaningful they are. If you are planning a virtual wedding, or are just curious to know what’s like, I’m pulling back the curtain and taking you inside.
WEDDING YOGA: For You and Your Squad (part 1)
Doing yoga with friends allows for better connection, support, and keeps your ego in check. Just what you need prepare for your wedding day. I mean we want to be Zen brides and grooms, right?
Gratituesday 11.10.20 - Beginning of the End
Fall is a time of change. In the grand scheme of the year, it’s the beginning of the end. 2020 has been a tough one. The change of season brings great change, however there are lots of shifts. It looks like the tide is turning.
Tips for Planning Micro-Weddings
So you want to get married during a pandemic? Great! #loveisnotcancelled! Many states are limiting the number of people who can gather for the health and safety of all involved. Micro-weddings are really the best of both worlds. Here are 6 things to consider as you plan a smaller scale celebration — without losing any of the magic of your special day.
Gratituesday 11.3.20 - One Nation Indivisible
Welcome to Election Day. A day we we’ve been waiting for, dreading, anxious. It’s hard to believe how far our nation has come, and how far it has fallen. And as I reflect on the current state of our nation, it’s hard to believe how great the divide actually is. Our pledge of allegiance talks about “one nation, under God indivisible,” however we’re severely fractured as a country.
Bring ZEN to Your Wedding: Create a Budget
When we talk FINANCES in premarital counseling, we quickly get to the idea of budgeting. Even if you do not track your income and expenses in your daily life, I highly encourage it in wedding planning. And who knows, you may like it and add it to your routine!