Busy Bride 101

The Busy Bride 101 Podcast: Wedding Planning Tips for the Bride on the Go, offers quick and easy wedding planning tips and advice to streamline your next steps to create the wedding of your dreams. Your host, Lisa G McMillan, owner and founder of Exquisite Events and Consulting, offers inspired techniques to bring you closer to sorting through the list of details and guides you in determining what questions to ask wedding vendors.

Engagement Season Kickoff 2022 01/19/2022

Wedding Catering Advice Seasoned With Love and Experience 08/23/2021

Looking Through The Lens With Corey Johnson 07/16/2021

Luxurious Skincare Tips For Every Bride 06/03/2021

Hair and Makeup Secrets To Looking Radiantly Beautiful On Your Wedding Day 05/06/2021

The Sweet Tooth Dilemma 04/06/2021

Savvy Advice To Plan An Authentic Wedding Despite A Pandemic with Mary Bell Events 03/09/2021

Dropping Knowledge! DJ, Hans Daniels of Nice Entertainment Reveals Secrets to a Great Wedding Reception and Keeping Your Guests On The Dance Floor. 02/23/2021

Cocktails Anyone? Mobile bar options to enhance your wedding reception 01/05/2021

Elevate Your Wedding Attire with Bliss On Bridal Swimwear During a Pandemic 10/30/2020

Pivot My Wedding, Now 10/11/2020

Pivot My Wedding, Now Welcome to BUSY BRIDE 101, Wedding Planning Tips for the bride on the go and I’m your host, Lisa G. McMillan, wedding and event planner at Exquisite Events and Consulting. Today’s episode is “Pivot My Wedding, Now”. When ringing in 2020 who knew how the upcoming year would unfold. Many have proclaimed this as the worst year ever! You may find yourself scratching your head wondering on occasion how your wedding plans were hijacked, and why things quickly started spinning out of control. But it's easy to label 2020 as a horrible period during your lifetime. Let's journey deeper and recognize your achievements or as I like to call them, victories as you plan your wedding. Victory Number 1: While postponing your event you learned how to decrease your guest count without looking like the bad guy. Look, you knew when you first created your guest list there were folks you really didn’t want to invite. This gave you the “out” you needed. So, instead of spending hordes of money on mediocre meals and drinks you decided to pivot and you chose to either one, splurge on elevated meals and signature drinks due to the smaller size or two, pocketed the cash and funneled it towards a down payment on your new home together. Victory Number 2: Remember the lighting package which included spotlights directed at each guest table and splashed along the walls for a burst of color? As an alternative, you and your fiancé came to a consensus to string an amazing canopy of twinkle lights on the patio in your parent's backyard. For added dimension and texture to your centerpieces you draped eucalyptus garlands and boat loads of candles to each dinner table. This is such a cost savings and it is just as beautiful as your original design concept. Victory Number 3: The initial idea was to illuminate your custom designed monogram onto the dance floor. When all along it became more interesting to view as it glowed on top of the water of your swimming pool surrounded by floating luminaries along the edges. Now, that’s how you stretch your imagination! It’s a game changer. Victory Number 4: Your 85 year old grandparents who are unable to be present at your ceremony eagerly await to watch you exchange your vows by live streaming it in their home as your cousin uses her laptop for easy viewing, safely set up in the living room. Victory Number 5: Nothing beats a huge multi-tiered wedding cake with flowers cascading down one side of it. Even though your guest count was significantly down-sized, shockingly, you can still have your dream wedding cake. Your pastry chef can create a fake cake with multiple tiers. Each layer is made with foam and the outside has REAL icing! Unbeknownst to your attendees, the top tier is edible in your favorite flavor. Here’s how it works, once you cut your cake, the cake table is wheeled off to the kitchen where slices of sheet cake are plated and served with ease. You can have your cake and eat it, too! When you sit back and reflect on all the memories 2020 has brought your way, remember the good times. Yes, it includes the unexpected and the unprecedented. However, it’s uncovering your renewed energy to face changes head on, to create unique and budget saving options but most of all to celebrate love and togetherness. I'm not making light of the lives taken or financial burdens brought on by the pandemic. I simply ask you to rejoice in the happiness that only love can bring during tragedy. Continue to marvel at how you find solutions to a problem you didn't create or could control. You ROCKED 2020 and that's something to be proud of and celebrated! Thanks for listening to BUSY BRIDE 101, Wedding Planning Tips for the bride on the go! To keep up with us and learn more tips, follow us on Instagram at or visit our . Subscribe to get notified of new episodes and to share with your friends. Always remember, your wedding is for the two of you! Links and Resources Mentioned: Website Podcast YouTube Channel Contact Lisa! Email Phone 704-578-1974 /episode/index/show/busybride101/id/16355210

Backyard Wedding Wins During a Pandemic 08/28/2020

Backyard Wedding Wins During a Pandemic Welcome to BUSY BRIDE 101, Wedding Planning Tips for the bride on the go and I’m your host, Lisa G. McMillan, wedding and event planner at Exquisite Events and Consulting. Today’s episode is “Backyard Wedding Wins During a Pandemic”. Planning a backyard wedding may seem as easy as 1-2-3 but I wanted to point out a few elements to remember as we’re still navigating through the pandemic and muddling through its constraints. Tip Number 1: Depending on how much space or acreage you have in your backyard don’t fall in the trap of becoming too lackadaisical about the design, functionality, and most of all SAFETY of your guests and vendors. So, let’s start with safety! At some point you’ll need electricity during your event. Even in this hi-tech world you probably don’t have wireless connectivity for all of your speakers, microphones, tent lighting, LCD projection or coffee urns. If you happen to fall in this category, I suggest you first, identify where you’ll plug in your devices. Then, hop in the car and get ready to buy a few power strips. Most pros supply their own power cords and know exactly how to cover them up without injury to your guests. They apply cord covers, mats, or adhesives to hide cables and so should you. Tip Number 2: Here’s another tip about safety. Add plenty of sanitizer in convenient areas for your guests. This is an outdoor event so place them at the back door of your home. Don’t forget about the small packets or pocket-sized bottles at each guest table. Tip Number 3: When it comes to design your backyard wedding can be as modest or elaborate as you want. Figure out where you want to exchange your vows. Is it under a sprawling oak tree you climbed often as a child? Or is it in front of the babbling brook where you first kissed your fiancé? Wherever it is, create a ceremony space overflowing with romance. Soften the look of hard wood and metal fences with delicate fabrics or light foliage. Who said you couldn’t add clusters of flowers or ribbon on each side of the front and back rows? It’s your backyard, no rules here! Tip Number 4: If, at the last-minute rain threatens on your wedding day, look no further than your living room to say “I-Do”. No worries here! Just place enough chairs for the immediate family to sit and everyone else can stand during the ceremony. You wouldn’t believe how many times an unexpected afternoon shower has been the backdrop for some of the most meaningful and unforgettable weddings. Tip Number 5:During the cocktail hour provide appetizers in individual sized containers or skewers. This is not the time for using the same serving spoon to scoop out spinach and artichoke dip. Let’s place a moratorium on unattended buffet stations which promote cross contamination. Yuk! Tip Number 6: When considering the functionality of your backyard wedding keep in mind how to handle your rental items. I know delivery of tables, chairs and linens may be a fleeting thought. But like all events you must check in the quantity delivered against the amount you ordered. By the way, they should match. When ordering napkins always order 10-20 more. It covers any dropped during service or if the caterer needs any for display purposes. Tip Number 7: Make certain your tables and chairs are stored in a dry area away from moisture. Just make space in the garage or covered porch for this task. If you leave those items under your tent exposed without a tarp you run the risk of theft, wildlife destruction, and unanticipated weather issues. These suggestions are just a few of many ideas for your backyard wedding. So, stay tuned for more! Thanks for listening to BUSY BRIDE 101, Wedding Planning Tips for the bride on the go! To keep up with us and learn more tips, follow us on or on our Subscribe to get notified of new episodes and to share with your friends. Hey, don’t forget to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, today and every day. Visit the website for the CDC for more information. Always remember, your wedding is for the two of you! Links and Resources Mentioned: Podcast YouTube Channel Contact Lisa! Email Phone 704-578-1974 /episode/index/show/busybride101/id/15796655

Micro Weddings: The Next Big Thing 07/29/2020

Wedding Photography with Tonya Damron 05/21/2020

DIY Flower Fails with Mandy Frazier 04/21/2020

COVID 19 and Planning Your Wedding 03/30/2020

COVID 19 and Planning Your Wedding Welcome to BUSY BRIDE 101, Wedding Planning Tips for the bride on the go and I’m your host, Lisa G. McMillan, wedding and event planner at Exquisite Events and Consulting. Years of planning weddings has given me focused insight towards organizing successful events. Budgeting, logistics, and constant interaction with others play a significant role in creating moments of a lifetime and dealing with the effects of COVID-19 Coronavirus and how we respond to it, is challenging but manageable. I realize you’re trying to figure out your next steps, don’t worry. I’m here to help YOU. Take a moment to listen to a few of my suggestions to get you started right now during this unprecedented time. Tip Number 1:Your first decision is to figure out if you want to reschedule or cancel. If your wedding is set for the Spring of 2020 get on the phone and contact your vendors immediately. Determine what future dates are available. Communication is key. Be pro-active and initiate dialogue immediately. Tip Number 2: Find out how much it will cost, if you decide to cancel your event. This means pulling out all of your vendor contracts and reviewing their cancellation policy. Pro Tip: Ask if your payment schedule will shift along with the new wedding date. Tip Number 3: If you change the date of your wedding you always have the option of having a civil ceremony with just the two of you. Then, once conditions are much better for all concerned, throw the biggest, baddest, party ever! Kazoos for everyone! Tip Number 4: Update your wedding website with the latest information about your wedding. This is a convenient and effective way to communicate the most recent news, they can use. Other economical methods to deliver up to date details is through word of mouth, text, or email. Tip Number 5: If you have a significant reduction in your original guest count here’s a way to recoup a few dollars. Run straight to your jam-packed 3-ring binder of wedding stuff and look for receipts? Are there any returnable items you’ve bought such as favors, décor, or candles? Unless its miniature bottles of sanitizer for everyone I would try and get my money back. Tip Number 6:Please check updates regarding COVID-19 Coronavirus on the websites for the and the . Their links are in the show notes. We’re in this together, so let’s do this! Thanks for listening to BUSY BRIDE 101, Wedding Planning Tips for the bride on the go! To keep up with us and learn more tips, follow us on Instagram at Busy Bride 101 or visit our website at Subscribe to get notified of new episodes and to share with your friends. Always remember, Your wedding is for the two of you! Links and Resources Mentioned: Website Podcast Contact Lisa! Email Phone 704-578-1974 /episode/index/show/busybride101/id/13769021

Ceremony Musicians 03/23/2020

Ceremony Musicians Today’s PODCAST will cover working with ceremony musicians. Anytime you have the opportunity and financial resources to hire quality musicians, do it! Don’t get me wrong, recorded music works well but there’s an excitement and resonance that accompanies the sound of music wafting through the air played live, right in front of you. Tip Number 1: When hiring musicians make sure it shows on the contract if they are playing the prelude music. The prelude music typically begins 30-45 minutes before the ceremony begins while guests are ushered to their seats. This point is crucial because most brides only think that you need 1hour for music and that’s not necessarily the case. Allow me to break it down. During the processional, which is the entrance of the grandparents, parents, officiant and wedding party, you’ll need one song played while they walk down the aisle. A second song can be chosen as the bridesmaids and groomsmen are making their way down unless you decide to use the same song used earlier in the processional. Then, a third song for YOUR bridal entrance. Let’s not forget if you decide to have additional songs for the unity ceremony or a song before the pronouncement. But wait, there’s more. Musicians will need to play the recessional song as the wedding party exits the ceremony. As guests are leaving their seats you will need postlude music which is played until the last guest exits so this can be 5 minutes to 20 minutes of music and musicians are paid by the hour. Tip Number 2: Communicate clearly with your musicians the exact location, time, and size of your event. This becomes extremely helpful if your venue has multiple spaces for ceremonies. Tip Number 3: Wedding musicians customarily have a list of songs for you to listen to online and they definitely should have a list of songs they can send you for consideration. I had a consultation with a violinist once over the phone with the bride. During the call the bride asked if he knew a particular song, I can’t remember the title. But he said wait a minute let me play a piece of it for you right now. Within seconds we had a mini concert performed over the phone. It was absolutely a treat for our ears and needless to say he was hired! Tip Number 4: If you have a special song request not listed in their suite of music usually, they’ll download the sheet music, learn the song and charge an additional fee. Tip Number 5: Also, on the contract it should indicate what instruments will be used. For example, if you want a duo that consists of a violin and cello it should reflect that on the contract. Tip Number 6: Whenever musicians are playing an outdoor event they need and should be set up in a shaded area or under a tent. Their contracts will also stipulate what weather conditions in which they will not play. Tip Number 7:Musicians usually wear black clothing to events. However, some of them are open to wearing your choice of outfit. For instance, instead of men wearing suits they may wear a dress pant and shirt without a tie. Just discuss wardrobe preferences during your consultation. Tip Number 8: As the musicians are setting up for your ceremony, they’ll want to know who is going to give them the cue to begin music. If you have a wedding planner or coordinator then they will check in with each other and discuss cues. For outdoor weddings I have a retractable five-foot-long white flag, otherwise know as my wedding wand that I wave discretely away from guests but in full view of the musicians when it is time to begin each piece. Tip Number 9: Find a reputable company that’s professional, a website to listen to their music and one who provides you with a contract. Tip Number 10:Have fun selecting the music for your ceremony and work closely with the musician regarding your preferences. Thanks for listening to BUSY BRIDE 101, Wedding Planning Tips for the bride on the go! To keep up with us and learn more tips, follow us on Instagram at Busy Bride 101 or visit our website at Subscribe to get notified of new episodes and to share with your friends. Always remember, Your wedding is for the two of you! Links and Resources Mentioned: Contact Lisa! Phone: 704-578-1974 /episode/index/show/busybride101/id/13668014

Wedding Cake: Do I Really Need One? 03/04/2020

Wedding Cake: Do I Really Need One? In episode, "Wedding Cake: Do I Really Need One?" explores the options of various desserts to offer guests instead of cake. Special occasions are a great dessert option but not everyone likes cake. Here are just a few ideas to consider for your wedding reception. This Episode’s Tips, Trends, and To-Do’s So, let’s jump into our episode! Today’s PODCAST will cover the ever tasty topic of Wedding Cake: Do I Really Need One? Let me admit, I believe cake should be eaten at every celebration with a ½ cup of icing on the side to wash it down instead of a glass of milk. It’s my happy place. Now, for those of you who aren’t as enthusiastic as I am about cake I’ll provide you with several five alternatives to consider to offer your guests. Tip Number 1: Pies, Tarts, and Cookies! During warm and humid receptions held outdoors these treats are more tolerant when displaying for a few hours. There’s less likely no melting of icing or perhaps your cake tilting like the leaning tower of Pisa. When discussing your options with your cake baker or pastry chef inquire about miniature sized versions which look absolutely chic on your dessert table. Let your creative side lead you and think about mixing the level and sizes of the platters. Try this, think displaying your sweets vertically to create dimension instead of each item horizontally. Tip Number 2: For those of you who want cake but not a multi-tiered and want to keep costs down cake consider ordering a small cutting cake It’s just big enough for you and your new spouse to cut and to feed each other. Tip Number 3: Back in the day it was such a huge trend to order a wedding cake with fake tiers. You would never know some of the tiers were fake until you tried to cut it. This option gives you the appearance of a multi-tiered cake. Once you cut your ceremonial slice from the tier that is REAL, the cake table is wheeled away unbeknownst to your guest a sheet cake is available in the kitchen and cut and served on trays to everyone. Oh, the secrets of the wedding industry! HA, HA Tip Number 4: Instead of cake I had a bride and groom totally change up the tradition of sharing their first bite of sweet deliciousness on their wedding day. They ordered huge tubs of various ice cream flavors and toppings along with platters filled with brownies. So, instead they shared their “FIRST SCOOP” in front of their loved ones. It was a HIT! To this day I still smile thinking about that moment. Tip Number 5: Doughnuts, whether sprinkled with powdered sugar or simply glazed to perfection is a wonderful choice. Have you seen the doughnut walls or doughnut towers on the internet? It’s genius! I once had a bride so obsessed with the love of Krispy Kreme doughnuts she bought the two pack containers for each guest and we displayed them on the table. Talk about easy set up, great take aways and Who Doesn’t Like A Doughnut? Thanks for listening to BUSY BRIDE 101, Wedding Planning Tips For The Bride On The Go! To keep up with us and learn more tips, visit our website at and on Instagram at exquisite_events_consulting Subscribe to get notified of new episodes and to share with your friends. ALWAYS REMEMBER, YOUR WEDDING IS FOR THE TWO OF YOU! Links and Resources Mentioned: Contact Lisa! Phone: 704-578-1974 /episode/index/show/busybride101/id/13417850

Flower Power: Discovering Your Floral Vision 02/17/2020

Flower Power: Discovering Your Floral Vision Flower Power: Discovering Your Floral Vision is for brides struggling with determining what color combinations, styles and floral types to use for their wedding. This easy step by step approach removes the anxiety of having to know anything about flowers and focus on your desire to have a beautiful event. This Episode’s Tips, Trends, and To-Do’s Today’s episode is entitled FLOWER POWER! Quite often I hear from my clients they know nothing about flowers and have no idea where to begin to express their floral style. Before you know it, they’re frustrated and downright unexcited about visiting any florist. Whether you love flowers or simply swoon over willow branches adorned with twinkle lights, figuring this out should be fun and here’s a few tips on how to make your visit to the florist enjoyable. Tip Number 1: Start by selecting one color, just one to begin forming your wedding palate. It could be the same hue as your bridesmaid’s dresses or maybe it’s a neutral color like the ever-popular blush or slate gray. Tip Number 2: Go online and type in the one color you feel content with, for example, type in “blush wedding colors”. You would not believe the number of color combinations, it’s like a festival of mixtures and textures. So, now you’ve gone from one color to a myriad of beautiful coordinating accents. Tip Number 3: Compile images of your newfound color scheme and store them electronically somewhere in the cloud, you know Google Drive, DropBox, or maybe in a folder on your computer. Tip Number 4: Schedule an appointment with at least 2-3 florists. Let me back up, before you schedule that appointment please visit the galleries on their website or Instagram to see if their style is pleasing to your eye. Tip Number 5: You may not know the difference between a rose and a ranunculus or eucalyptus to ruscus, but you do know what you like when you see it. That’s why it’s the florist’s job to listen to you first as you show them your photos and discuss your wants or concerns. Tip Number 6: Don’t forget to ask to look around their shop. Does it look clean and feel welcoming? Are there shelves of vases and vessels to display centerpieces? What about reams of ribbon, candle holders and mirrors? Seeing these items can easily jump start your inspiration. Tip Number 7: Even if you show up at your florists shop with no idea as to color, pattern, flower type consider this, a vendor who takes time to hear your ideas and can show you how they can expertly interpret your vision within your budget is a florist worth your time and money. Thanks for listening to BUSY BRIDE 101, Wedding Planning Tips for the bride on the go! To keep up with us and learn more tips, visit our website at and on Instagram at exquisite_events_consulting Subscribe to get notified of new episodes and SHARE with your friends. ALWAYS REMEMBER, YOUR WEDDING IS FOR THE TWO OF YOU! Links and Resources: Contact Lisa! Email: Phone: 704-578-1974 /episode/index/show/busybride101/id/13189181

Don't Mess Up My Close Up 02/03/2020

Don't Mess Up My Close Up In episode, DON'T MESS UP MY CLOSE UP: HAIR and MAKE UP TIPS, find out how to prepare for your hair and make up trial run. From what to bring to who to bring we cover the most important questions you will ask about getting your close up ready for the public to see on your wedding day. This Episode's Tips, Trends, and To-Do's Hair and Make Up for your wedding are one of the first scheduled appointments you attend the morning of your wedding and it will be an early morning. I’m constantly asked how does one prepare for their hair and make-up services. Let’s take a few minutes to prepare you with a little advice for looking your best from the neck up! Tip Number 1: Regardless if you’re having your hair and make-up provided by a beloved friend or by an established professional you must include on your to-do list, a trial run. A trial run helps you talk through the details of each brush stroke, eye lash choices, colors that look best on you and so much more during your one on one session. Tip Number 2: Schedule your appointments around 2-3 months before your wedding day and bring someone you trust who can give constructive feedback when you need it most. So, don’t show up alone. Tip Number 3: Wear a white or ivory blouse or top that buttons down the front so that it doesn’t mess up your hair when changing into another outfit. Bonus points if the top you are wearing is the same shape as the upper half of your wedding gown. Tip Number 4: Arrive with dry hair and bring a boat load of photos as a helpful aid in describing to your expert an idea of what you have in mind. A picture speaks a thousand words. From bridesmaids, mothers of the bride and groom, and even the precious flower girls all of them want to be included in those services. Ask how much will it cost to include them. This is an eye-opening conversation because it opens the discussion about pricing, how long it will take to perform services for all of your ladies, and if day of services should be offered in the salon or offsite at your hotel. Tip Number 5: During the trial run it is imperative that you speak up whenever you’re not pleased with your look. For example, if the foundation is too heavy looking, the eyeshadow is darker than expected, or the braid is too bulky, let them know on the spot about your thoughts. It won’t hurt their feelings and they encourage clients to be vocal so they can get it right before you leave and especially get it right on your wedding day. Tip Number 6: If you have sensitive skin or allergic to any products inform the hair and make up expert upfront. A long time ago I had a bridesmaid to arrive to the ceremony with puffy, red eyes. Come to find out she was allergic to the mascara applied and she never scheduled a trial run. Needless to say, “Don’t be that person!” Tip Number 7: Here’s a couple of items that brides forget to bring to their trial run, it’s the veil, the decorative and sparkly hair combs or even the earrings. All of these items will help to give you a complete look once the services are finished. So, pack those items for your visit. Tip Number 8: Ask if there is a minimum number of ladies needed to book their services. Tip Number 9: Your hair and make up artist will gladly discuss their fees and follow up with a copy of their contract and an explanation of the payment schedule along with the deposit amount to secure their services. Tip Number 10: If your services are going to be held in a hotel make sure there are plenty of electrical outlets, a room with ample natural light and a chair with a low back. Oh, don’t forget the gratuity. Thanks for Listening to Busy Bride 101, Wedding Planning Tips for the Bride on the Go! To keep up with us and learn more tips, visit our website at and on Instagram at exquisite_events_consulting Subscribe to get notified of new episodes and SHARE with your friends. ALWAYS REMEMBER, YOUR WEDDING IS FOR THE TWO OF YOU! Links and Resources: Contact Lisa! Email: Phone: 704-578-1974 /episode/index/show/busybride101/id/13005695