

Ask the Planner with Desirée Adams: A Wedding and Event Planning Podcast
Desirée Adams, Verve Event Co.
With over 225K downloads and over 150 episodes, the Ask the Planner podcast gives sophisticated couples like you expert tips on how to style, plan, and execute a thoughtfully curated wedding. Every week, join your host Desirée Adams as she interviews leading wedding industry experts and discusses the often-overlooked details that take weddings from pretty parties to heirloom occasions. Hear how to manage vendors, avoid surprises, and plan your day with honest advice from a pro. New episodes drop every Monday. If you want to binge on past episodes or learn more about the show, visit http://asktheplannerpodcast.com.You can also send questions or suggestions for future topics or guests via your Apple Podcast review, text us at (585) 210-9485, or email asktheplannerpodcast@gmail.com. Don't forget to follow the show on Instagram and join our broadcast channel @asktheplannerpodcast!
Episodes
Mentioned books

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/92Connect with the show!📞 Leave us a Voicemail: (585) 210-9485 (New number!) IG: @asktheplannerpodcastTikTok: @asktheplannerpodcast💻: http://asktheplannerpodcast.com/💌: asktheplannerpodcast@gmail.com

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!)Connect with the show!📞 Leave us a Voicemail: (585) 210-9485 (New number!) IG: @asktheplannerpodcastTikTok: @asktheplannerpodcast💻: http://asktheplannerpodcast.com/💌: asktheplannerpodcast@gmail.com

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/90Connect with the show!📞 Leave us a Voicemail: (585) 210-9485 (New number!) IG: @asktheplannerpodcastTikTok: @asktheplannerpodcast💻: http://asktheplannerpodcast.com/💌: asktheplannerpodcast@gmail.com

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/89Connect with the show!📞 Leave us a Voicemail: (585) 210-9485 (New number!) IG: @asktheplannerpodcastTikTok: @asktheplannerpodcast💻: http://asktheplannerpodcast.com/💌: asktheplannerpodcast@gmail.com

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.Connect with the show!📞 Leave us a Voicemail: (585) 210-9485 (New number!) IG: @asktheplannerpodcastTikTok: @asktheplannerpodcast💻: http://asktheplannerpodcast.com/💌: asktheplannerpodcast@gmail.com

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.Connect with the show!📞 Leave us a Voicemail: (585) 210-9485 (New number!) IG: @asktheplannerpodcastTikTok: @asktheplannerpodcast💻: http://asktheplannerpodcast.com/💌: asktheplannerpodcast@gmail.com

Feb 13, 2023 • 41min
86 I What Does a Wedding Planner Actually Do on Your Wedding Day?
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineToday I’m taking you behind the scenes of a real wedding. You’re going to experience first-hand what goes into a wedding weekend – the obstacles we have to endure – and also what we did to get around them.I took you behind the scenes with me in Season 2 and you loved it, so we’re doing it again!To fast-forward to a specific part of the podcast episode, check out the timestamps below:Prep for the Rehearsal Dinner [2:30]What happens when there are no placecards [11:50]My eye emergency [17:10]Set up the aisle runner [18:50]The votives are missing [22:20]Links Mentioned in the EpisodeVisit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop (Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!)@AskthePlannerPodcast on InstagramThank 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/86Connect with the show!📞 Leave us a Voicemail: (585) 210-9485 (New number!) IG: @asktheplannerpodcastTikTok: @asktheplannerpodcast💻: http://asktheplannerpodcast.com/💌: asktheplannerpodcast@gmail.com

Feb 6, 2023 • 44min
85 I Should You Consider Flower Preservation for Your Wedding Bouquet?
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineToday on Ask the Planner Podcast, we’re talking about something that comes much later in the planning process but needs to be budgeted for and confirmed much earlier on. Flower Preservation. If you’re anything like me, you LOVE flowers and you want your wedding day flowers to live on after your wedding because they were so beautiful.However, flower preservation isn’t something you can easily add at the last-minute because flower preservation takes planning AND you have a limited window of opportunity before your flowers start to wilt. If you’re sentimental like me or you want to appreciate the beauty of your day long after everyone’s gone home, you’re going to want to listen to today’s episode.This episode was packed with so many amazing tips from our guest. Meet Lauren Muldoon [03:44]What exactly is flower preservation? [05:32] Can you tell us a little bit about the process? [06:44]If a couple is considering having their flowers preserved from their wedding, what should they be thinking about? [10:45]Can old, air-dried flowers be preserved? What else can be preserved? [13:35]How many flowers do couples need to give you to ensure they have enough for you to make a nice piece? [15:40]When do you recommend couples reach out to you or another preservationist to ensure you have availability to preserve their flowers? [19:38]What advice do you have for couples if they don’t think about flower preservation until after the wedding? [22:32]Do you only work with couples that are local? Can couples ship their flowers to you? [26:10]What can couples expect to spend if they’re considering having their flowers preserved in this way? [27:49]What’s one thing you want to debunk about the flower preservation? [30:10]This or That. [32:05]For the episode show notes, make sure you visit verveeventco.com/85Connect with Lauren MuldoonFLX Flower Preservation websiteInstagram: @flxflowerpreservationFacebook: FLX Flower PreservationTHANK YOU TO OUR PODCAST SPONSORS!Visit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop – (Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!)Connect with the show!📞 Leave us a Voicemail: (585) 210-9485 (New number!) IG: @asktheplannerpodcastTikTok: @asktheplannerpodcast💻: http://asktheplannerpodcast.com/💌: asktheplannerpodcast@gmail.com

Jan 30, 2023 • 23min
84 I Top 5 Questions to Ask on a Venue Tour
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineWe’re sharing the top 5 most important questions to ask on a venue tour. Whether you’re just starting the venue search process or you’ve got your venue selected, these important questions will still be helpful as you continue planning all the logistics for the big day, so let’s get to it.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: Top 5 Questions to Ask on a Venue TourTo fast-forward to a specific part of the podcast episode, check out the timestamps below:How much does it cost and what is included in the cost? [02:25]What is the max capacity for the ceremony and reception spaces? [04:20]Where does the wedding party typically get ready? [07:34]Now that you’ve checked out the spaces and assessed if they’ll work for you, it’s time to think about the logistics. Make sure to ask at what time do we have access to the property? [9:25]And finally, the last question on our list is, are there specific vendors we need to contract for certain things or are there additional fees we should be aware of if we use vendors not on your list? In addition, are these vendors paying to be on this list or are they on here because they’ve been vetted? [11:35]And that concludes our episode on the top 5 questions to ask on a wedding venue tour. For the episode show notes, make sure you visit verveeventco.com/84.Links Mentioned in the EpisodeThe Ultimate Wedding Planning checklistVisit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop (Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!)@AskthePlannerPodcast on InstagramBook a 90-minute Clarity Call to get wedding planning help specific to your unique situation20 Most overlooked questions to ask your wedding venue 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, make sure you visit verveeventco.com/84Connect with the show!📞 Leave us a Voicemail: (585) 210-9485 (New number!) IG: @asktheplannerpodcastTikTok: @asktheplannerpodcast💻: http://asktheplannerpodcast.com/💌: asktheplannerpodcast@gmail.com

Jan 24, 2023 • 39min
83 I Should you hire a professional bridesmaid or a maid of honor for your wedding?
Text the Wedding Planning HotlineToday on Ask the Planner Podcast, we’re talking to a Professional Bridesmaid. This goes beyond the movie 27 dresses with Katherine Heigle. So don’t go anywhere. You’re going to love today’s episode. We’re discussing a topic that may not be known to you - hiring a professional bridesmaid for your wedding.This episode was packed with so many amazing tips from our guest. Meet Jen Glantz [02:49]What was it like starting the company [3:49]What are the different services you offer as a professional bridesmaid? [4:30]What’s the process like when someone hires you to be their professional bridesmaid? [5:38]Has anyone to blow your cover? [6:40]Do they hire you confidentially [7:15]And now you have multiple women on your team that can work with brides, right? Do they choose someone based on their needs or personality? What’s that like? [7:55]How do you price your services? Is it a flat fee, or is it based on the scope, how many events you’re planning, how many hours you’re helping? [9:30]What would you say to them on why it’s a good reason to hire you or someone like you to be their professional bridesmaid? [10:35]What recommendations or tips do you have for planning a bachelorette party? [12:00]Are there any trends that you’re over when it comes to planning the bachelorette? [13:30]Where do you think a lot of brides go wrong in terms of how they plan the day with their wedding party? [15:47]What’s the craziest and oddest story (2 different stories) do you have as a bridesmaid for hire? [18:55]Now we’re going to transition to answering some of our listener and viewer questions. I polled our listeners and they sent in some really great questions. Can we have 3 maid of honors? I just can’t choose 1! [23:36]What’s your advice for a bride who wants to ask her bestie to be her MOH but she’s very unorganized + not a planner? [24:48]Best “bridesmaid proposal box” or proposal ideas (something over the top) you’ve seen? [26:00]Advice for Groom who’s deciding between Tux or wearing a traditional kilt? We’re getting married in the U.S. He likes the look of the tux. [28:14]We’re 10 months out and haven’t picked out dresses or made Bachelorette plans yet. Is it too late to ask another bridesmaid? [28:14]Is it okay for the bride to pay for the bachelorette party? [30:40]Should the bride pay for hair and makeup? [31:02]Advice for a kid-free destination wedding when some of bridal party has kids? [32:11]Any other additional advice? [33:19]For the episode show notes, make sure you visit verveeventco.com/83Connect with Jen Glantz Bridesmaid for Hire websiteInstagram: @bridesmaidforhireTikTok: @bridesmaidforhireTHANK YOU TO OUR PODCAST SPONSORS!Visit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop – (Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!)Connect with the show!📞 Leave us a Voicemail: (585) 210-9485 (New number!) IG: @asktheplannerpodcastTikTok: @asktheplannerpodcast💻: http://asktheplannerpodcast.com/💌: asktheplannerpodcast@gmail.com


