1-800-Bridesmaid

Ring, ring! It's 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and professional bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free space for messy wedding, friendship, and relationship dilemmas. This week, Jen is joined by Hilary Sheinbaum, New York City–based journalist and author of The Dry Challenge and Going Dry: A Workbook. Hilary spent years writing about wine, beer, and bar openings across the city—until a silly $100 bet with a friend kicked off a Dry January that completely changed her life, her career, and eventually, her wedding. Together, they talk about everything from the pressure to drink at every wedding event, to what it's actually like to walk down the aisle completely sober, to navigating a social life where alcohol is the default. But today's listener question takes things to another level. A bride writes in after discovering that her fiancé has been secretly draining their honeymoon fund—the money gifted by friends and family through their registry—to pay off his credit card debt. He claims it was temporary and "just our money anyway." Now she's questioning everything: the trust, the wedding, and whether she should still walk down the aisle. Jen and Hilary unpack the red flags around financial infidelity, why money conversations need to happen long before you sign the marriage license, and how to protect yourself when your partner isn't being transparent. Episode Highlights: How a $100 bet turned into a sober lifestyle and a career pivot The hidden ways alcohol affects your sleep, mental health, and friendships Saying "I do" without saying cheers — what a sober wedding actually looks like The growing world of nonalcoholic cocktails and why hosts should offer them When a partner hides debt: red flag or dealbreaker? Why financial transparency belongs on the table before the wedding venue The case for prenups, joint money meetings, and protecting your future Using AI as your unofficial second opinion on health, finances, and tough conversations If you've ever felt pressure to drink at every wedding event, questioned what real financial transparency looks like in a relationship, or wondered whether some secrets are worth calling off a wedding over, this episode is full of honest perspectives and real advice. This episode is brought to you by Travel by @davidsbridal— plan your honeymoon, getaway, or room block all in one place, with savings up to 30%. Visit davidsbridal.com/travel to get started today.

Ring, ring! It's 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and professional bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your messy, real wedding, love, and friendship dilemmas—plus expert advice to help sort them out. In this episode of 1-800-BRIDESMAID, host Jen Glantz sits down with Brooklyn hairstylist and former ballerina Nathan Ayon to talk about wedding culture, the pressure around marriage, and what actually makes a wedding meaningful. Nathan has spent years behind the salon chair — one of the few places where people share their most honest, unfiltered thoughts about relationships, love, and life. His unique perspective on what people really feel about weddings might surprise you. Then, Jen and Nathan tackle a real listener dilemma: a bride finds out her maid of honor has started dating her ex-boyfriend — and now wants to bring him as her plus one to the wedding. They unpack the complicated line between loyalty and romance, and what it truly means to show up for a friend on one of the most important days of her life. In this episode: - What hairstylists hear in the salon that no one else does - The real pressure people feel around marriage and weddings - MOH vs. bride: where does loyalty end and personal life begin? - How to handle a maid of honor who's dating your ex - Setting boundaries with your wedding party without blowing up a friendship - What actually makes a wedding memorable — and what doesn't matter at all This episode is brought to you by Travel by  @davidsbridal  Plan your honeymoon, getaway, or room block all in one place, with savings up to 30%. Visit https://www.davidsbridal.com/travel to get started today.

Ring, ring! It's 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and professional bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your messy, real wedding, love, and friendship dilemmas—plus expert advice to help sort them out. This week, Jen is joined by Tasha Dwhaj, a social media personality, producer, and reality TV contestant who once found herself in one of the most unexpected wedding roles imaginable: a bridesmaid for a bride she had never met. Together, they dive into the complicated world of friendships, weddings, and the expectations we place on relationships. Tasha opens up about why she didn’t believe in marriage for years, what changed her perspective, and why she believes couples shouldn’t feel pressured to follow society’s timeline. But today’s listener question brings the drama. A bride writes in after discovering that her bridesmaids had a secret group chat without her—filled with comments about how stressful she had become and jokes about her appearance during wedding planning. Now she’s left wondering: should she confront them, remove them from the wedding party, or pretend she never saw the messages? Jen and Tasha break down the emotional reality behind wedding planning, friendship loyalty, and what it really means to support someone during one of the most stressful times of their life. Episode Highlights: • What it’s like to be a “stand-in bridesmaid” at a stranger’s wedding • Why wedding stress can change friendships overnight • The truth about bridesmaids gossip and group chat drama • Why Tasha didn’t believe in marriage until her 30s • The pressure couples face to follow the traditional timeline • How to decide if a friendship is worth saving • What to do when the people in your wedding party stop acting like your friends If you’ve ever questioned your friendships, dealt with wedding party drama, or wondered what people are saying in the group chat without you—this episode is full of honesty, perspective, and advice you’ll wish you had sooner.

Ring, ring! It's 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your messy, real wedding, love, and friendship dilemmas—plus expert advice to help sort them out. This week, Jen is joined by Alyssa Pettinato, a NYC-based event planner and host of Miss Judged, who has seen it all—from chaotic wedding days to complicated relationships—and isn’t afraid to say the quiet part out loud. Together, they get into the reality behind weddings and relationships: why getting married doesn’t fix anything, what really happens when couples ignore red flags, and how weddings can bring underlying issues to the surface. But today’s listener question hits close to home. A woman writes in after discovering her best friend of 16 years secretly got married—and she found out on Instagram. No invite. No heads up. No explanation. Now she’s left wondering: is this still a friendship worth holding onto… or is this the moment everything changes? Episode Highlights: • Why weddings can amplify relationship doubts and hidden issues • The pressure to get married—and why it’s not always the right move • Alyssa’s own broken engagement and what she learned from it • The biggest red flags to watch for before saying “yes” • Why friendships can hurt more than romantic relationships • How to handle being excluded from a major life moment • When it’s time to have the hard conversation… or walk away If you’ve ever questioned a relationship, felt left out by a friend, or wondered if you’re forcing something that doesn’t feel right—this episode is full of honesty, perspective, and the kind of advice you actually need.

Ring, ring! It's 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your messy, real wedding, love, and friendship dilemmas—plus expert advice to help sort them out. This week, Jen is joined by Jennifer Rodriguez, an elopement expert who helps couples skip the stress of traditional wedding planning and get married in simple, meaningful ceremonies that focus on what really matters. But today’s listener question takes the conversation in an unexpected direction. A bride-to-be writes in after her fiancé proudly reveals a spreadsheet he’s been secretly keeping for three years. Inside are detailed logs of everything he’s done for her—he says it proves his love. She says it feels… unsettling. Is this extreme organization? Emotional bookkeeping? Or a warning sign about how he views their relationship? Episode Highlights: • Why couples are increasingly choosing elopements over traditional weddings • The hidden costs of wedding planning nobody warns you about • Why keeping financial transparency in relationships is critical • How “scorekeeping” can quietly damage trust between partners • The difference between intentional love… and transactional love If you’ve ever felt pressured by wedding expectations or questioned a partner’s behavior… this episode is full of insight and honest conversation.

Ring, ring! It's 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this eye-opening episode, Jen sits down with Morgan J. Weil and Shari A. Rivkind, Esqs.— the powerhouse mother-daughter duo behind Bridelawyer and Groomlawyer (both divisions of The Rivkind Law Firm) - to talk about the legal side of marriage that nobody warns you about. From prenups and wills to estate planning and the shocking truth about what you're actually signing when you get married, this conversation will change how you think about saying "I do." Episode Highlights: - What you're legally signing away when you get married (spoiler: everything becomes joint) - How to bring up the prenup conversation without it feeling like a breakup - Why presenting a prenup the night before the wedding is considered duress - The shocking truth about inheritance, wills, and what happens if you die without one - Why you NEED your own lawyer (and can't use your fiancé's attorney's firm) - How to spot an unfair prenup—and what "mine is mine, his is his" really means - The one thing people forget: you can break a prenup by not following it If you've ever felt pressured to sign something you didn't understand, wondered if you're giving up too much, or just want to know your legal rights before walking down the aisle... this episode is essential listening.

Ring, ring! It's 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this deeply vulnerable episode, Jen sits down with Lauren Tetenbaum—therapist, author of Millennial Menopause, former lawyer turned social worker, and self-proclaimed optimist who believes life gets better in your 40s—for an honest conversation about friendship scarcity, wedding anxiety, and why your worth isn't measured by your bridesmaid count. From making friends at Pilates to why midlife means giving fewer fucks, Jen and Lauren tackle the invisible pressure women face to perform perfect friendships, especially when a wedding puts every relationship under a microscope. Episode Highlights: - Why weddings bring all your hidden issues to the surface (like friendship struggles you've been ignoring) - How to separate your relationship with your partner from your insecurity about friendships - The art of being bold: picking up girls at the gym and asking for friend-dates - Why you don't need matching bridal parties (or any bridal party at all) - How to stop being performative on social media and start living for yourself - Making peace with having "no group of friends" when Instagram tells you otherwise If you've ever felt alone while planning a wedding, worried about how your life looks to others, or struggled to make real friends as an adult... this episode will remind you that you're not broken, you're just in a different season.

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your messy, real wedding, love, and friendship dilemmas—plus expert advice to help sort them out. This episode features writer, entrepreneur, former wedding planner, and soon-to-be-bride Amanda Goetz. Amanda’s lived about seven lives: married young, became a mom of three, managed a celebrity wedding brand, built two startups, survived divorce, found love again, and is now planning wedding number two with a newfound sense of clarity, boundaries, and emotional growth. Jen and Amanda dive into identity, ambition, the “seasons” of life, anxious attachment, trusting yourself after heartbreak, and why so many of us dim our own light without even realizing it. Then they break open this week’s letter—an absolute jaw-dropper: A bride-to-be discovers her fiancé has been pretending to go to work for six weeks after secretly getting fired. Now they’re months away from the wedding with financial chaos and a mountain of lies to untangle. Can trust ever be rebuilt? Or is this a sign to run? Episode Highlights: • The lies we tell ourselves when we’re scared to start over • What divorce taught her about self-trust, boundaries, and choosing better partners • Why postponing a wedding is so much easier than divorcing the wrong person • The emotional and financial cost of divorce (and how to avoid it) If you’ve ever questioned your relationship, compared your love to your past, or wondered whether cold feet is a warning or just fear talking, this episode is a must-listen.

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by writer, senior editor at TODAY.com, and beloved “Grinch Bride” herself, Elena Nicolaou, whose viral wedding commentary has helped thousands of brides feel seen during the messy, emotional, transformative rollercoaster of engagement. Then they unpack this week’s letter: A bride-to-be runs into the ex who once made her feel wild, passionate, and alive… just weeks before her wedding. Now she’s questioning everything. Spark vs. safety, nostalgia vs. reality—what does it really mean? Episode Highlights: • What it feels like to be a “Grinch Bride” (and why it’s more common than you think) • Why weddings bring out buried family and friendship dynamics • How to tell the difference between passion and toxicity • The surprising identity crisis that happens after you say “I do” • What to do when an ex resurfaces and throws your heart into chaos If you’ve ever questioned your relationship, compared your love to your past, or wondered whether cold feet is a warning or just fear talking, this episode is a must-listen.

Ring, ring! It's 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by Brianna Paruolo, licensed mental health counselor and founder of PA Therapy NYC, for an honest conversation about friend breakups, the "Cool Girl Campaign," and why losing a best friend can hurt even more than a romantic split. From navigating red flags in relationships to dealing with mixed signals on social media, Jen and Brianna unpack the messy reality of modern friendships and what happens when someone you love decides they're done—without explanation. Episode Highlights: - Why friend breakups hit different (and hurt harder than romantic ones) - The "Cool Girl Campaign" and why saying yes to everyone else means saying no to yourself - How to heal when someone refuses to tell you why they left - Whether you should block an ex-friend on social media (or let them lurk) - Why planning a wedding without your "supposed-to-be" maid of honor might actually set you free If you've ever been blindsided by a friendship ending, ghosted by someone who's still watching your every move, or wondered if you should reach out one more time... this episode is for you.

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by Mindie Kaplan—tech leader, host of the Mailroom podcast, and founder of the Million Mammograms initiative. Mindie has interviewed men around the world about dating, relationships, and red flags… and today she’s bringing that same sharp, hilarious, truth-telling energy to the Bridesmaid Hotline. Jen and Mindie dive into everything from ghosting and “if he wanted to, he would” to rejection, chemistry, approaching strangers in the wild, and how to know when someone actually shows up for you. Then they unpack this week’s caller dilemma: What do you do when your best friend copies your entire wedding—venue, colors, flowers, vendors, dress—and brushes it off like it’s no big deal? Episode Highlights: • What men really mean vs. how women interpret it • Why the outcome always tells the truth (even when the signs don’t) • How to approach new people without fear (and survive rejection with confidence) • Why weddings bring out hidden tensions in friendships • How to decide whether to confront, let go, or walk away If you’ve ever dealt with a copycat friend, felt confused by someone’s mixed signals, or needed a reminder to trust what people do—not what they say—this episode is a must-listen.

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your real wedding, love, and friendship dilemmas—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. This episode features powerhouse matchmaker and dating coach Erin Davis, a woman who has done everything in the love industry: going undercover at yoga class, staging run-ins at bars, managing dog custody after breakups, and helping clients rebuild themselves (and sometimes win an ex back) with a full-blown emotional and lifestyle makeover. Jen and Erin talk through why dating apps are burning everyone out, the science behind chemistry, why “picky” isn’t the problem you think it is, and how to date with intentionality instead of exhaustion. Then they tackle this week’s dilemma: What should you do when you see your engaged friend flirt heavily, disappear with another guy, and return like nothing happened—while rumors swirl? Episode Highlights: • Erin’s most requested services (including undercover gym run-ins and “get your ex back” missions) • Why commitment is harder than ever in 2025 • How to keep first dates short, fun, and successful • The psychology of why people cheat—and why they deny it • How to approach a friend you think crossed a line (without ruining the friendship) If you’ve ever been stuck between wanting to protect a friend and not wanting to blow up someone’s relationship, this episode gives you the exact roadmap.

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions, plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by Janine Baggett, comedian, content creator, and nostalgic 90s internet icon (aka Retro Avocado), for a deep dive into family dynamics, advice-giving, and what really happens when you marry into a family that might not be rooting for you. From people-pleasing and conflict avoidance to learning how to stand up for yourself without burning it all down, this episode blends heart, humor, and hard-won wisdom. Episode Highlights: • Janine’s viral rise and the secret to making content go viral • How to handle conflict when you’re a people-pleaser who hates confrontation • What to do when your partner’s family crosses a line • Why every long-term couple needs to survive a “rough patch” to grow stronger If you’ve ever been stuck between your partner and their family, or just needed a reminder that marriage is more marathon than fairy tale, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by fashion creator and New York City tour guide Nick Portillo for a wild ride through one of the hardest questions a parent can face: What do you do when your child is about to marry the wrong person? From overbearing grooms to moms on the verge of losing their daughters, Jen and Nick unpack how to speak up (without pushing someone away), what it means to “let them make their own mistakes,” and how far you’d go to protect someone you love from heartbreak. Episode Highlights: • When “protective” turns into “controlling” • How to talk to a friend (or daughter!) about their toxic partner • The secret power of planting subtle “truth bombs” instead of ultimatums • And yes... what the mom actually did

Ring, ring! It's 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. What happens when "happily ever after" starts feeling more like "barely getting by"? In this episode, Jen sits down with former divorce lawyer and relationship coach Kara Francis to tackle one of the hardest questions in marriage: How do you know when it's worth fighting for versus when it's time to let go? Episode Highlights:  - The difference between loving someone and being "in love" with them  - Red flags that indicate a marriage may be beyond repair  - Why fighting over the same issues repeatedly signals deeper problems  - How to have difficult conversations without blame and defensiveness  - The importance of maintaining your individual identity in marriage  🎧 Tune in now for expert guidance on navigating marriage's toughest moments.  🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on

Welcome back to The Pre Nup, the wedding-obsessed podcast designed to help you plan your dream day! I’m your host, Adriana, and each week, I’m joined by the industry’s top professionals, celebs, influencers, and friends who are keeping it real about love, marriage, and everything in between. This week, I’m joined by Bachelor alum from Nick Viall’s season, Alexis Waters—and she does not hold back. From giving up booze and the diet she swears by before her wedding to planning a Vegas ceremony complete with Elvis, showgirls, and a magician, Alexis proves there’s no one right way to get married. Oh, and wait until you hear her bachelorette story that ended with a $7,000 bill. Episode Highlights: - Why Alexis chose a small, intimate Vegas wedding with only 30 guests - The diet that got her glowing before the big day - When your bachelorette turns into the most expensive night of your life - If she was truly looking for love on reality TV - How she met the love of her life just weeks before Bachelor in Paradise This one’s hilarious, raw, and full of wedding inspo for anyone planning outside the box. This episode is brought to you by JTV — your one-stop shop for happily ever after. Visit https://www.jtv.com/wedding and get 20% off with code WED20.

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by therapist and anxiety expert Debbie Missud, founder of the Manhattan Psychotherapy Collective, to dig into what happens when being “the easy bridesmaid” starts quietly wrecking your mental health. Together, they unpack why weddings can trigger anxiety for the first time, how people-pleasing becomes self-abandonment, and how to set boundaries without losing your friendships. Plus, they help a caller who’s hiding panic attacks behind her “perfect bridesmaid” performance—while secretly falling apart. Episode Highlights: • Why wedding planning often activates old family dynamics and hidden trauma • How to spot the difference between stress and anxiety (and what to do about each) • People-pleasing as self-abandonment—and how to stop • Scripts for saying no (without feeling like a bad friend) • Why prioritizing yourself actually makes you a better bridesmaid and friend If you’ve ever been the go-to reliable one at the expense of your own mental health, this one’s a must-listen.

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by wedding planner and founder of The Privilege Is Mine, Lara Mahler, to tackle one of the most common—and exhausting—wedding problems: refusing to ask for help. Together, they unpack why so many brides take on everything themselves, how that snowballs into stress, and how to let others step in without feeling like a failure. Plus, a caller confesses that she’s DIY-ing her way into panic attacks, sleepless nights, and strained relationships because she just can’t let go. Episode Highlights: • Why asking for help doesn’t make you weak—it makes you wise • The art of delegating without losing control • How to balance your vision with what others want to contribute • The hidden emotional toll of “doing it all” • Tips for letting loved ones back in after you’ve shut them out If you’ve ever felt like wedding planning became a second (or third) full-time job, this episode is your permission to put the glue gun down and let someone else hold it. This episode is brought to you by Jewelers Mutual - the easiest way to insure your jewelry. Get a quote, apply, and protect your jewelry — it's that simple. Learn more at https://jewelersmutual.com. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by Amy Shack Egan—founder of Modern Rebel and Cheersy, and self-proclaimed “anti-wedding wedding planner, wedding planner”—to explore what happens when your dream wedding looks nothing like the Pinterest boards… and everyone in your life hates it. From deciding which traditions to toss, remix, or keep, to handling family meltdowns and partner disagreements, Amy shares her best tips for making your wedding feel authentically you—without destroying your budget, your sanity, or your relationships. Plus, they take a caller question from a bride who wants an emerald-green dress, no aisle, and zero “scripted performances”—but whose partner, parents, and best friend are all pushing back hard. Amy offers a compassionate (and practical) plan to navigate the pressure and still have a day worth celebrating. Episode Highlights: • How to identify which wedding traditions matter—and which you can skip • Why “guest experience” doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your personality • The conversation every couple should have with financial contributors before booking vendors • How to balance authenticity with compromise (and why it’s okay to change your mind) • Creative, real-life examples of weddings that broke the rules—and totally worked If you’ve ever felt trapped between being true to yourself and keeping the peace, this is the episode you need before you plan another detail.    This episode is brought to you by Jewelers Mutual, the easiest way to insure your jewelry. Get a quote, apply, and protect your jewelry—it's that simple. Learn more at jewelersmutual.com. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by Lucie Beatrix—model, ultrarunner, and host of The Lucie Beatrix Podcast—to unpack the quiet heartbreak of being left out. From friendship breakups to the sting of not getting a bridesmaid invite, they open up about what it means to grow out of friendships and how to protect your peace along the way. Plus, they hear from a caller whose best friend invited everyone else to be a bridesmaid… except her. Ouch. Episode Highlights: • What to do when you feel invisible in your own friend group • The quiet power of walking away from relationships that drain you • Why friendship breakups can hurt even more than romantic ones • Tips for making new friends in your 30s (and not feeling weird about it) • Why it’s totally okay to not have a huge circle of friends If you’ve ever wondered, “What’s wrong with me?” after getting left out, this one’s for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by New York Times bestselling author K.L Walther (The Summer of Broken Rules, A First Time for Everything) to explore whether obsessing over romance novels is a red flag—or a roadmap to finding your person. From hiding love notes in suitcases to writing swoony vows, K.L. shares how fiction shaped her real-life love story (and why her fiancé might just be her ultimate book boyfriend). Plus, Jen and K.L. take a heartfelt caller question from a listener who’s worried she’s too in love with love. Is writing your dream romance in your head before you meet someone setting you up for heartbreak—or helping you stay true to your standards? Episode Highlights: • What romance novels really teach us about relationships • How to write your own vows—even if you’re not a writer • The pressure of planning a wedding (when you’re a professional storyteller) • Why it’s okay to be “picky” in dating—and what that actually means • How to stay grounded in reality while dreaming big about love If you’ve ever made a list of traits inspired by your favorite fictional crush, this one’s for you. This episode is brought to you by @jewelersmutual - the easiest way to insure your jewelry. Get a quote, apply, and protect your jewelry—it's that simple.Learn more at jewelersmutual.com. #ad #jewelersmutual Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, money expert, CFP, and founder of The Fiscal Femme, to dive deep into the hidden financial pressures of wedding planning. From $300 charger plates you’ll never remember to accidentally spending three times your original budget, they unpack why it’s so easy for weddings to spiral out of control—and how to keep your sanity (and savings) intact. Plus, Jen and Ashley answer a heart-wrenching caller question from a bride who secretly financed a $40,000 wedding—without telling her fiancé. Should she confess, or try to fix it on her own? Episode Highlights: • How to create a “wedding manifesto” to keep spending aligned with what actually matters to you • The surprising ways small upgrades snowball into major debt • Tips for talking money with your partner (and what to do if you’ve been hiding the truth) • Smart strategies to pay off wedding debt (without ruining your future) • Why your wedding is just one day—and how to plan for the life beyond it If you’ve ever felt torn between your Pinterest-perfect vision and your real-life bank account, this is the episode you need. This episode is brought to you by Pearl Planner: wedding planning powered by AI, fueled by love. Be one of the first to get started with our exclusive beta at pearl.davidsbridal.com! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by Mariah Grumet, etiquette expert and author of What Do I Do?, a modern guide to wedding etiquette. Together they break down the often messy world of weddings—where traditions, guest experience, and real human awkwardness collide. From whether you really have to handwrite thank-you notes, to the best way to gracefully decline being a bridesmaid (or attending a wedding altogether), they explore why clear, upfront communication is the secret sauce to handling wedding stress—on both sides. Plus, Mariah shares the difference between a partner and a plus-one (yep, they’re not the same!), how to make your guests feel welcome without losing your own joy, and how to give the perfect polite no without guilt. Episode Highlights: • Why wedding etiquette is more about emotional intelligence than stuffy rules • The biggest mistakes couples make—and how to avoid them • How to exit long convos at your own wedding without feeling rude • The etiquette behind plus-ones, invitations, and sending gifts when you don’t attend • Jen’s embarrassing fork-and-knife confession (and Mariah’s non-judgy rescue plan) If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate weddings without stepping on toes—or losing your mind—this episode is packed with honest, modern advice (and a lot of laughs). This episode is brought to you by Pearl Planner: wedding planning powered by AI, fueled by love. Be one of the first to get started with our exclusive beta at pearl.davidsbridal.com! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. You know their favorite pizza topping and how they take their coffee—but do you know how they handle money, stress, or the big life questions? In this episode, Jen sits down with dating expert Carleigh Ferrante, host of the Mostly Dating podcast, to unpack why so many couples avoid deep conversations and what you really need to talk about before you say “I do.” Episode Highlights: • The tough questions every couple should ask before walking down the aisle • How to handle the fear of having “uncomfortable” conversations • Why “we never fight” might be a relationship red flag • Tips for tackling topics like kids, money, and lifestyle differences • Expert dating advice to find the right person for you If you’re engaged, dating, or wondering whether you really know the person next to you, this episode is your reality check for building a lasting, authentic connection. This episode is brought to you by Fred Meyer Jewelers. Because the right ring means everything. With over 50 years of experience, Fred Meyer Jewelers brings trusted expertise to your bridal jewelry journey. Visit fredmeyerjewelers.com to find your perfect match today.  Tune in now and learn how to talk about the hard stuff—before it’s too late. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Ring, ring! It's 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. In this episode, Jen is joined by Dr. Gary McClain, therapist, patient advocate, and author of "The Power of Closure," to tackle one of the most common yet rarely discussed wedding dilemmas: what happens when ghosts from your past start haunting your future happiness. Together, they explore the complex emotions that surface during wedding planning when unresolved relationships resurface. Episode Highlights: - Why it's completely normal to think about exes during wedding planning - The difference between healthy curiosity and concerning behavior on social media - How to know if you've truly grieved a past relationship before entering marriage - Dr. McClain's surprising take on soulmates and "forever" relationships - Why closure sometimes means accepting you'll never get closure - The caller's dilemma: scrolling through her ex's Instagram nightly while planning her wedding to someone else - Practical steps for getting closure when you can't get it from the other person Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes! This episode is brought to you by Friar Tux. For over 50 years, they’ve been styling customers for life’s most important moments —from weddings to proms and more. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, Friar Tux has the perfect suit or tuxedo for your event. Visit friartux.com to get started today. 

Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out.   In this episode, Jen is joined by Kara Francis, a former divorce attorney turned life coach, who helps women navigate relationship transitions with clarity and confidence. Together, they dive into the emotional rollercoaster of wedding planning—especially when your gut is telling you something feels off. From pre-wedding panic attacks to calling off a wedding 60 days before the big day, Kara shares her personal story and what she’s learned about trusting yourself—even when it’s terrifying.   Episode Highlights: • The surprising way Kara realized her engagement wasn’t right • How to separate cold feet from a deeper truth • Why bridesmaids often become emotional support systems • The hardest part about walking away from a wedding • What Kara tells clients who are questioning their relationships   If you’ve ever felt torn between doing what’s expected and doing what’s best for you, this conversation will hit home.   Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. What happens when wedding pressure collides with real relationship doubt? This week, Jen is joined by Ilana Dunn—TikTok star known for her brutally honest takes on love and weddings—for a no-filter conversation on everything from dating disasters to marriage fears. Together, they dish out smart, funny, and refreshingly candid advice for anyone navigating modern relationships. Episode Highlights: • Feeling stuck with the wrong person? Here's what to do • Why finding love later in life can be even better • First date conversation do’s and don’ts • Keeping secrets—and when it crosses a line • Wedding planning: why Ilana hated it and how to survive it. If you’re stuck in a situationship, second-guessing your marriage, or just need a dating reality check, this one's for you. This episode is brought to you by Honeyfund—the perfect way for couples to receive cash gifts for their wedding, honeymoon, or any savings goal. Whether it’s an unforgettable trip or a big life milestone, Honeyfund makes it easy for guests to give the gift of experience. Head over to https://www.honeyfund.com/ and start your fee-free registry today!

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out. Behind the Instagram-worthy wedding moments is a reality few talk about—friendships falling apart under the pressure of bridesmaid duties. In this episode, Jen sits down with therapist Claudia Giolitti to unpack the emotional toll of weddings, power imbalances, and what happens when the person getting married starts to feel like a stranger. Episode Highlights: • Why weddings can trigger deep emotional wounds and reveal toxic dynamics • How to know when a friendship is no longer serving you • Signs of anxiety in relationships and when it's time to reevaluate • Expert insights on navigating people-pleasing, boundaries, and breakups Real talk on friendship grief and what to do when you’re not okay Whether you're questioning your own role in a bridal party or rethinking your friendships altogether, this episode is full of raw honesty, validation, and therapeutic-level advice to help you protect your peace. This episode is brought to you by Lovebird — the most elegant way for engaged couples to communicate with their wedding guests. Create a premium wedding website, send gorgeous digital save the dates and invitations, personalize thoughtful digital thank you cards, and manage every touchpoint in one place. Learn more at https://www.lovebird.com Tune in now and learn how to show up for others without abandoning yourself. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Welcome to 1-800-Bridesmaid, a podcast where real-life drama meets unfiltered advice. I'm Jen Glantz, founder of Bridesmaid for Hire and author of Finally the Bride. Each episode features a new caller sharing their honest, raw dilemma on friendship, love, weddings, and beyond. An expert and I offer guidance, and you're invited to weigh in with your own take. Will they take our advice? We'll find out together. Have a wedding dilemma or relationship question? Submit your story here https://bridesmaidforhire.com– you might be featured on our next episode! And remember, sometimes the best advice comes from strangers we meet along the way.