

The Planner's Edit with Desirée Adams: A Podcast for Wedding Planners and Pros (FKA Ask the Planner)
Desirée Adams, Verve Event Co.
With over 300k downloads and 150+ episodes as the host of Ask the Planner, Desirée Adams now brings you The Planner’s Edit—the essential podcast for wedding planners and event pros looking to elevate and scale their businesses. Each week, join Desirée and guest experts for candid conversations, actionable strategies, and behind-the-scenes insights into marketing, systems, client experience, and the realities of building a successful and profitable event business. Whether you’re a seasoned planner or just starting, you’ll find honest advice and inspiration to help you grow, elevate, and create lasting impact in the wedding industry.New episodes are released on Mondays.Explore past episodes, submit questions, or learn more at desireeadams.co.Follow along on Instagram @PlannersEdit.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 24, 2023 • 54min
96 I Confidence Starts Here: Getting Your wedding Smile Ready with Invisalign and Teeth Whitening with Jim Gleason of Gleason Orthodontics
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineDuring your wedding you will have a ton of photos taken of you. For some people this can be very nerve-wracking if they’re self-conscious about their appearance - including their smile. And let’s be honest, your smile is in almost every single photo of you. So if you don’t have good teeth, this can be a problem. On today’s episode, we’re talking about your teeth and how to make sure your smile looks its very best on the wedding day. Even if you’re not getting married, we’re still going to talk about some important items and busting some myths about dental hygiene, so make sure you listen until the end!This episode was packed with so many amazing tips from our guest. Meet Dr. Jim Gleason [02:52]What is Invisalign? [09:02]How are clear aligners different or similar to braces? [10:49]What makes someone a good or bad candidate for Invisalign? [14:29]How does Invisalign or clear aligners work? [16:12]What is the timeline and process for Invisalign? [19:18]Do online and at-home options like SmileDirectClub or Byte work? [22:33]How much does Invisalign cost? [27:52]Common misconceptions about clear aligners and braces. [30:57]Will I get more cavities if I use clear aligners or Invisalign? [36:11]Does mouth wash work? [37:57]When is the best time to get your teeth whitened? [41:08]Connect with Jim GleasonGleason Orthodontics websiteInstagram: @gleasonorthoLinks Mentioned in the ShowCheck out Gleason Ortho's Amazon StorefrontDr. Gleason's favorite mouthwashDr. Gleason's cavity-fighting gumTHANK YOU TO OUR PODCAST SPONSOR! Proven Skincare. Get 20% off my daily skincare routine! Enter the code DESIREE during checkout to save 20% off your first order.For the episode show notes and links, go to verveeventco.com/96

Apr 17, 2023 • 41min
95 I When to Send a Wedding Invitation: Answers to Your Wedding Stationery Questions with Allison Jackson of Kindly Delivered
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineFrom letterpress to blind press, escort cards versus place cards, the wedding stationery world can be a confusing place if you’re not familiar with the terminology. On today’s episode, I talk to a stationery expert and together we give you a crash course on all things wedding paper. No matter where you are in your wedding planning journey, or even if you’re a vendor listening along - you’re going to want to listen to today’s episode. I promise you will learn something new that will help you prepare for your wedding, or at least tell you the difference between an escort card and a place card. This episode was packed with so many amazing tips from our guest. Meet Allison Jackson [02:38]How do you suggest couples figure out how many invitations are needed? [04:45]What about printing methods and how they should go about choosing or finding the right wedding stationery designer for them? [05:35]How much do they spend for invitation for 100 people? [07:23]A quick paper terminology segment so our guests know what we’re talking about when it comes to the different elements? Digital /Flat Printing [08:30] Embossed Printing [09:05]Letterpress Printing [09:47]What is the difference escort cards and place cards? [10:50]What about some accents or details that would help couples in their stationery journey:Vellum [12:11]Seals [12:47]Outter Envelopes [13:44]Inner Envelopes [14:12]Envelope Liner [15:49]What is the timeline for ordering stationery - from save the dates to day-of wedding stationery and signage - When should couples start working with a stationer? [20:31]A quick list of the different pieces that couples should be thinking about that they might need for their stationery. Save-the-date [25:56]Invitation Suite [26:45]Day-of stationery [27:45]What is your feeling with those and do many of your couples opt to go with either electronic reply cards or incorporating QR codes? [29:36]What new techniques or trends or methods or details are you excited for when it comes to stationery that couples might want to incorporate into their own stationery? [31:06]Is there anything else you wanted to share that we haven’t covered on today’s episode? [33:27]What myth would you like to debunk about what you do? [34:15]This or That [35:25]Connect with Allison JacksonKindly Delivered websiteInstagram: @kindlydeliveredPinterest: @kindlydeliveredFacebook: Kindly DeliveredLinks Mentioned in the ShowUltimate Wedding Planning ChecklistTHANK YOU TO OUR PODCAST SPONSOR! ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop – (Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!)For the episode show notes and links, go to verveeventco.com/95

Apr 10, 2023 • 46min
94 I Unique Honeymoon Destinations and Why Taking a Honeymoon Can Save Your Marriage with Sara Margulis of Honeyfund
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineBelieve it or not, not all couples who get married go on a honeymoon. Work, financial, and career commitments, among other things cause couples to skip the honeymoon altogether.While you might think that’s not a big deal, skipping the honeymoon can actually have a significantly negative affect on your marriage and your relationship.On today’s episode, we’re talking to a real expert on the topic of honeymoons, paying for the honeymoon, and wedding registries in general.This episode was packed with so many amazing tips from our guest. Meet Sara Margulis [03:25]What it was like to work with Kevin O’Leary? [05:50]Why should couples take a honeymoon? [08:33]What honeymoon trends do you see for 2024? [11:38]Where are less well-known honeymoon destinations? [13:20]Is it ok for couples to request money as a wedding gift? [14:42]What are the most popular and unique things couples register for? [17:54]Is Honeyfund really a fee-free cash registry website? [19:55]Advice you give to couples planning a wedding? [22:40]What are you excited about for the future of Honeyfund? [27:43]Myths about honeymooning and travel [30:22]Listener question: How do you ask for a honeymoon gift that’s not tied to a specific location since we don’t know where we’re going yet? [32:00]Listener question: Is it okay to only have a cash registry? [33:40]Connect with Sara MargulisHoneyfund websiteLinkedIn: Sara MargulisLinks Mentioned in the ShowEp. 89 The Importance of Bridal Wellness and How to Scale a Wedding Business with Danielle LeilaniHoneyfund THANK YOU TO OUR PODCAST SPONSORS! Visit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop – (Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!)For the episode show notes and links, go to verveeventco.com/94

Apr 3, 2023 • 24min
93 I Do I Need a Wedding Planner? What to do if your vendors say they can also plan your wedding.
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineHello loverve’s! You know here on Ask the Planner Podcast we never shy away from a hot take, and oh boy do we have one for you today. Today we are addressing the vendors who say “it’s okay if you don’t have a planner - I can help with that”. I know these professionals have good intentions, I believe that they couldn’t be more wrong - and it’s not just because we’re planners! It’s also because I value the work that THEY do and want them to spend your wedding day doing what they were actually hired for.To fast-forward to a specific part of the podcast episode, check out the timestamps below:Wedding planners can help you:Why your vendors may be giving you bad advice [4:55]The role of a wedding planner to bring in some more clarity. [7:45]The difference between a wedding planner and a venue coordinator [10:50]How vendors can work with a wedding planner [15:15]LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEVisit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop (Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!)Learn more about our Wedding Venue Selection ServiceBook a Clarity Call with DesiréeGather GreeneFor the episode show notes and links, go to verveeventco.com/93

Mar 27, 2023 • 19min
92 I The Wedding Venue or the Wedding Planner - Which Should You Book First?
Text the Wedding Planning Hotline Although we like to believe we make wedding planning an exciting and joyful experience, we also know that planning a wedding can feel overwhelming and stressful, especially at the beginning when it feels like every single decision needs to be made at once. One of the most important decisions you will make early on in the wedding planning process is choosing your wedding venue, but before you do that, you should book your wedding planner. Does that surprise you? You might feel like you need to have it all figured out before you book your wedding planner, but today we are going to share five reasons why it's actually a GOOD idea to book your wedding planner before your wedding venue! To fast-forward to a specific part of the podcast episode, check out the timestamps below:Wedding planners can help youNarrow down your venue options [4:10]Stay within your wedding budget [6:58]Envision your wedding in the space [8:25]Ask the right questions and know what to look for in the contract! [9:53]Spot issues BEFORE they happen [10:55] LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEVisit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates ShopLearn more about our Wedding Venue Selection ServiceBook a Clarity Call with DesiréeEpisode 36 - 6 Things to Do Before You Get EngagedEpisode 37 - I’m Engaged! Now what? Episode 40 - How to Put Together Your Wedding Guest ListFor the episode show notes and links, go to verveeventco.com/92

Mar 20, 2023 • 42min
91 I All About Destination Weddings: From Budgeting to Vendors and Unique Design with Beth Helmstetter
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineThis episode was packed with so many amazing tips from our guest. Meet Beth Helmstetter [02:00]What is the first thing couples should consider when planning a destination wedding? [07:00]Should couples talk to a destination wedding planner before or after picking a location? [09:10]Do you recommend working with a local wedding planner versus a planner that travels to the location? [11:19]What advice do you have for vendors that want to do more destination weddings? [14:54]Do couples need to hire a travel agent for a destination wedding? [18:02]In addition to the ceremony and reception, what activities do couples plan for their guests as part of their destination wedding? [19:20]How far in advance should couples start planning their destination wedding? [20:39]When do you recommend sending save the dates for a destination wedding? [22:57]What’s the typical budget for a destination wedding? [23:49]Advice for managing local vendors in a foreign country? [25:53]Where do you suggest couples start if they want a cohesive design for their weddings? [26:49]What are some challenges couples don't realize come with planning a destination wedding? [29:08]Can you name some of your favorite locations or properties to plan a destination wedding? [32:14]For the episode show notes and links, go to verveeventco.com/91Connect with Beth HelmstetterBeth Helmstetter Events websiteInstagram: @bethhelmstetterPinterest: @bethhelmstetterFacebook: Beth Helmstetter EventsLinks Mentioned in the ShowUltimate Wedding Planning ChecklistWedding Budget BundleTHANK YOU TO OUR PODCAST SPONSORS!Visit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop – (Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!)

Mar 13, 2023 • 22min
90 I Dealing with Unwanted Wedding Planning Advice From In-laws to Strangers, and Everyone in Between
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineWe asked you all what you wanted to hear on the podcast and today’s topic came in a few times: how in the world should we be dealing with advice from in-laws and literally everyone else? And hey, maybe even your own parents are the overbearing ones? In today’s episode, I’m going to share a few thoughts when it comes to dealing with unsolicited opinions - especially when they feel more like demands. If that’s what you need right now - or even if you don’t need this YET - you don’t want to miss today’s episode.To fast-forward to a specific part of the podcast episode, check out the timestamps below:Take a Step Back #1 [7:19]Pick Your Battles #2 [8:27]Try to Find Other Ways to Include Them#3 [10:16]Keep a United Front with Your Partner #4 [11:23]Dont Just Ignore the Problem #5 [12:23]Remember this is Temporary #6 [12:56]Links Mentioned in the EpisodeVisit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates ShopLearn more about our Wedding Venue Selection ServiceBook a Clarity Call with DesiréeThank you to our podcast sponsors! Visit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop – (Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!)For the episode show notes and links, go to verveeventco.com/90

Mar 6, 2023 • 44min
89 I The Importance of Bridal Wellness and How to Scale a Wedding Business with Danielle Leilani
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineOn today’s episode of the Ask the Planner podcast, we’re hearing from someone who has carved her own path and created a unique niche in the wedding and event industry. Whether you’re getting married and looking for a way to manage the stress and pressures of wedding planning or you’re a vendor in the industry wondering how to get to the next level, you’re going to benefit from this episode.This episode was packed with so many amazing tips from our guest. Meet Danielle Leilani [01:50]Leilani Social [04:50]How do you think Leilani Social is different from other planning companies? [7:15]Bach Box [10:45]What trends do you see in the bachelorette party space for the future? [15:20]What’s your #1 tip for new planners starting out and for business owners who want to scale their business? [16:35]Can you tell us more about you think Bridal Wellness is and why it's necessary? [21:30]What tips do you have for couples that want to take their wellness more seriously? [25:25]You shared on your podcast that you're trying to simplify your life. What made you decide to do that and what do you recommend brides do to simplify their lives/weddings? [29:25]This or That. [32:47]Connect with Danielle LeilaniLeilani Social websiteInstagram: @leilanisocialPinterest: @leilanisocialTikTok: @itsdanielleleilaniYouTube: @danielleleilaniLinks Mentioned in the Showthe bachboxWonder BombsTHANK YOU TO OUR PODCAST SPONSORS!Visit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop – (Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!)For the episode show notes, make sure you visit verveeventco.com/89

Feb 27, 2023 • 31min
88 I Types of Wedding Venues
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineIf I know you, you’ve likely Googled the top wedding venues in your area. And if you're being honest with yourself, you're bored. You know the top 5 wedding venues in your area, and you may have even toured a few places that you feel neutral towards, but nothing has quite felt like “the one” yet.Buckle in, friends, because today’s episode is for you. The ones who are looking for “something different” and don’t want their search for “unique wedding venues” to keep resulting in the same five suggestions over and over again.Even if you’re not looking for something unique, keep listening because I’m going to dive deep into the TYPES of wedding venues you can look for, despite your style, budget, or guest count. I’m sharing what you need to consider for each type of wedding venue - prepare to hear the tea on the pros and cons, and I’m going to share which types are the most expensive, which ones may have hidden expenses, what types are easiest to work with and SO much more.To fast-forward to a specific part of the podcast episode, check out the timestamps below:Industrial Wedding Venues [5:25]Country club wedding venue [7:30]Barn wedding venues [9:17]Hotel wedding venues [11:30]Home wedding venues [14:12]Restaurant wedding venues [15:45]Historic resort wedding venues [17:55]Links Mentioned in the EpisodeVisit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates ShopLearn more about our Wedding Venue Selection ServiceBook a Clarity Call with DesiréeThank you to our podcast sponsors! Visit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop – (Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!)If you’ve already selected your venue, leave a review in Apple Podcasts with the type you selected and where it is! I’d love to hear what kind of venue all of you are choosing!If you're searching for wedding venues and finding lists of the same five over and over again - I hope today’s episode has expanded the list of possibilities for you! Also, I wanted to let you know that if you’re on the east coast, my wedding and event planning company Verve also offers Venue Selection services. If you want help finding the dream venue this service is designed specifically for you! Head to verveeventco.com/venue to learn more. If you’re not local but still want extra help with your venue selection process or anything else related to your wedding, you can always schedule a 60 minute clarity call with me to talk through your indecision, what’s troubling you, and get clarity so you can continue with the wedding planning confidently and with less stress.For the episode show notes, make sure you visit verveeventco.com/88.

Feb 20, 2023 • 1h 12min
87 I A Skin + Spirit Focused Approach to Natural Wedding Beauty with Erica Martell
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineOn today’s episode of the Ask the Planner podcast, we’re talking about a new, holistic way to approach your wedding beauty. And no, it’s not what you think. Whether you’re planning your wedding, already picked your beauty team, or you’re a vendor in the wedding space, you’re going to love hearing all that my guest has to share on beauty, skin care, and looking and feeling your best on the wedding day, and just life in general. So grab your headphones or settle in to your driver seat, because this is a good episode.This episode was packed with so many amazing tips from our guest. Meet Erica Martell [03:42]Why is skin care important? [12:25]What is the minimum baseline skincare routine you should have as a bride (or groom)? [15:35]How far out from the wedding should brides be thinking about their skin care if they want to see a difference or change with it? [23:52]What do you mean when you say a skin AND spirit focused approach to wedding beauty? [27:32]Who do you think brides should surround themselves with on their wedding day? [33:16]Can you tell us more about the importance of pampering? [40:32]Can you give us some tips on how to speak with beauty professionals to get the results you want? [43:55]How can you make red lipstick stay and not transfer onto your drinks or the groom on the wedding day? [52:57]Do I have to include my future sisters-in-law and mother in law during getting ready if I’m not close with them? [55:44]When should I be using a retinol and when should I discontinue it? [58:09]Is there anything else you wanted to share that we haven’t covered on today’s episode? [59:40]This or That. [1:00:23]Connect with Erica MartellErica Renee Beauty websiteInstagram: @ericareneebAll PostseautyPinterest: @ericatmartellTHANK YOU TO OUR PODCAST SPONSORS!Proven Skincare. Get 20% off my daily skincare routine! Enter the code DESIREE during checkout to save 20% off your first order.For the episode show notes, make sure you visit verveeventco.com/87.


