499 - “Say Yes to the Dress” & Real Wedding Drama with Michelle Elaine

This episode features an exclusive conversation with wedding planner Michelle Elaine, who is publicly sharing the behind-the-scenes reality of her “Say Yes to the Dress” experience for the very first time, including what did and did not make it to TV. Michelle opens up about the parts of the experience that were exciting and the parts that were challenging, and how being on reality TV intersected with her real life as a wedding professional. She also gets candid about planning her own wedding while navigating intense family dynamics, including calling out a difficult mother-in-law situation that added unexpected stress to what is supposed to be a joyful season. We also have an honest conversation about self-care and mental health in wedding planning, the emotional weight couples and planners carry, and why protecting your peace matters just as much as picking the perfect dress. This is an unfiltered conversation about expectations versus reality, and a reminder that even the experts do not get a perfect, drama-free ride. This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Part 2 drops later this week and features Michelle alongside a Bridechilla bride for a candid Q&A you will not want to miss. 📲 Find Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelleelaine/ In today's sponsored segment, Leah chats with Marsha-Ann Donaldson, the Director of Romance and Weddings at Sandals Resorts, to discuss the rising trend of elopements and micro weddings as couples become more conscious of thier spending. Marsha-Ann introduces Sandals' unique 'Your Wedding on Us' package, which offers couples a stress-free planning experience and includes a honeymoon stay -- as well as the customization options available when planning with Sandals. Learn more about the "Your Wedding on Us" package atStart planning your dream wedding at http://sandals.com/. This episode is sponsored by BriteCo! Get 5% off wedding insurance by visiting https://insurance.brite.co/planner/BRID3 Find Bridechilla online: - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebridechilla - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bridechilla - Website: http://thebridechilla.com Bridechilla is a production of Evergreen Podcasts. TAKE OUR SHOW SURVEY HERE!  ⁠https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FCT5DRM⁠