Episode 16 | Introducing Catalyst

Episode 16 | Introducing Catalyst

Happy Pride my Friends! We have a BONUS EPISODE. Amy Sims and I have been working very hard to bring to life a new community of Queer and Allied Vendors! In this episode, Amy Sims and Your Favorite Pink Haired Planner, Carissa Campbell, are talking... reviving Catalyst Wedding Magazine with a transformative mission. This isn’t just an update, it’s a revolution in how the industry champions inclusivity, community, and meaningful change. You’ll discover how Catalyst’s new vision centers queer and allied vendors, offering a platform rooted in core values of Queer Justice and community. Amy and Carissa share the story behind Catalyst’s inception in 2015, the evolution of its purpose, and why NOW is the moment to bring it back stronger than ever. They break down the four pillars driving their mission: building community at the regional and industry levels, comprehensive educator-driven support, celebrating queer love in all its forms through innovative initiatives like the Big Queer Wedding, and creating educational opportunities tailored to the needs of today’s small business owners and vendors. This episode reveals concrete strategies for vendors to authentically connect with queer couples—moving beyond superficial labels to genuine relationships. You’ll learn about their innovative platform featuring tiered memberships, vetted vendors, and regional community groups designed to foster real collaboration. Amy and Carissa also discuss how to align your business practices with inclusive values, from website language to event design, to attract and serve a diverse clientele with confidence and integrity.Why does this matter? Because the wedding industry’s future depends on true representation and inclusive spaces. If you’re a vendor committed to equity, a queer couple seeking authentic connection, or a wedding enthusiast eager for fresh inspiration, this episode is your call to action. Join two passionate founders as they share their vision for a world where love in all its forms is celebrated—and everyone has a seat at the table.Prepare for a conversation rich in purpose, practical wisdom, and vision. This is essential listening if you want to be part of transforming the wedding industry into a more equitable, vibrant community. Meet Amy [https://www.catalystwedco.com/blog-home/vendor-feature-amy-sims-photography] Learn More About Carissa [https://campbelleventsblog.com/] Join Catalyst HERE [https://www.catalystwedco.com/]

Episode 15 | Being Radically YOU on your Wedding Day

In this episode, Carissa sits down with Justin McCallum of Justin McCallum Photography for a conversation about weddings, branding, queer joy, and what it really means to create a day that feels uniquely yours. Justin shares how he approaches wedding photography with intention and lots of laughs, from helping couples feel comfortable in front of the camera to capturing the little details that make a celebration personal. The conversation covers current wedding trends like cocktail hour before the ceremony, outfit changes, less conventional florals, Lego flowers, and more experiential wedding formats that help couples and guests feel fully present. They also dig into the deeper side of wedding planning: how to choose vendors whose values align with yours, why inclusive language matters, how to protect queer couples and chosen family, and why being specific about your personality is one of the best ways to attract the right people. Justin opens up about his own wedding, his love of theater, drag, travel photography, his dog Penny (follow on instagram @apennywesaved), and the importance of balancing creativity with boundaries. Whether you’re planning a wedding, working in the wedding industry, or just love a funny, honest conversation about queer community and joyful celebrations, this episode is full of insight, heart, and unforgettable stories. Highlights: * Creative wedding details like outfit changes and Lego flowers * How inclusive branding attracts the right couples * What couples should look for in a photographer * Why vendor values matter more than ever * Justin’s advice for protecting queer joy in wedding planning Mentioned in this Podcast VVITCH Digital [https://www.vvitchdigital.com/] Crystal Lily [https://www.crystallily.co/speaking] Inkopot Creative [https://inkpotcreative.com/] Pride Grows [https://www.pridegrows.org] Follow Justin:Justin McCallum Photography [https://www.justinmccallum.com]: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinmccallumphoto [https://www.instagram.com/justinmccallumphoto]

Episode 14 | How the Hell do I staff my raw space wedding?! With Danne Dupree

Ever wonder what really happens behind the scenes at a wedding? Danne Park, owner of Superlative Staff Events, transforms chaotic moments into seamless memories, all while keeping her team motivated and spirits high. From preventing a dress from catching fire with candles, to salvaging a multi-tiered cake after a wheel comes loose, her stories will leave you both laughing and inspired by the true craft of event staff mastery.In this episode, Deann reveals the untold roles vital for a flawless wedding (like the sanitation captain and Lead Staff Captain) often invisible but absolutely essential. You'll discover how she expertly manages unexpected disasters, from weather chaos ruining outdoor ceremonies to last-minute setup fixes that save the day. Gain insider insights into staffing ratios, the importance of hiring adaptable team members, and how proper leadership can turn potential nightmares into joyful moments.She breaks down the nuances of logistical planning, explaining why every detail, no matter how small, impacts the entire event experience. Whether you're a couple planning your dream wedding or an industry pro, you'll learn strategies to anticipate pitfalls and create a celebration that's stress-free and unforgettable. Deanne's commitment to her team’s happiness and her passion for creating a positive environment proves that the secret to a perfect event isn’t just in the planning, but in the care and flexibility of the team behind it.Perfect for engaged couples, event planners, or anyone curious about the hidden mechanics of big-day magic—this episode is your behind-the-scenes pass to the real wedding hero stories. Don’t miss out on her expert advice, hilarious mishap stories, and the inspiring reminder that even when chaos strikes, a prepared team and a calm leader can make miracles happen. Host is Carissa Campbell from @Cambpellevents and https://campbelleventsblog.com/

Episode 13 | The Revelry Cooperative Tour of Venues

Discover the secrets behind exceptional wedding venues with Carissa and Jules Miller from the Revelry Cooperative. This episode dives into what makes a venue truly stand out, from stunning city views to rustic upstate charm, and how to make them work for any budget. Join us as Jules shares insider tips on evaluating a venue's potential beyond aesthetics, including logistical and financial considerations. Learn about the key features that attract creative couples and the scope of renovations needed to transform a space into a wedding-ready venue.Explore why some venues are perfect for corporate retreats, film shoots, and art-driven parties, and understand the importance of flexibility (like DIY setups and multipurpose rooms) that make a venue unique. Guest Jules Miller is the founder of the Revelry Cooperative, known for creating versatile venues in Brooklyn and upstate New York. Jules helps venue owners maximize their spaces and strategize standout event offerings. https://www.therevelrycooperative.com/ Host Carissa is a seasoned event planner and podcast host with a passion for uncovering the stories behind successful venues. With years of experience in the industry, Carissa brings a wealth of knowledge and a keen eye for detail, making her the perfect guide for this insightful conversation. https://campbelleventsblog.com/ Venues featured in this Episode: One Thirty One Venue - https://www.onethirtyonebrooklyn.com/ Hotel Lilien - https://www.hotellilien.com/ Please Space - https://www.pleasespace.com/info The Elliott Room - https://www.theelliottroombk.com/

Episode 12 | Location, Location, Location

Come with us for a virtual tour of the wedding "Districts" of New York and our favorite venues throughout the five Boroughs. Most couples overlook how the location of their wedding can make or break the entire experience and the right choice depends on more than just scenery. Carissa Campbell, NYC's go-to wedding planner, reveals the insider secrets to choosing a venue that perfectly captures your vibe, whether it’s a waterfront Brooklyn warehouse, a lush upstate retreat, or a sleek Manhattan rooftop.In this episode, Carissa shares her expert framework for matching your wedding’s feel—be it intimate and cozy or bold and glamorous, with the ideal location. She breaks down key factors like city vs. upstate, full-service versus raw space, and the hidden challenges of popular spots like Dumbo or Williamsburg, including permit restrictions and logistics. Plus, discover the local gems in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and beyond, along with practical advice on balancing ambiance, capacity, and budget.You'll discover: * How to pinpoint the atmosphere that suits your style and guest experience * The pros and cons of Brooklyn warehouses, Manhattan rooftops, and upstate resorts * When to opt for a full-service venue versus a raw space or tented wedding * The hidden logistical pitfalls in city venues and how to prepare for them * Why transportation and accommodations matter more than ever for upstate weddings This episode is a must-listen for couples feeling overwhelmed by the endless options... and for anyone craving a stress-free planning process. Whether you dream of a waterfront ceremony, a woodland retreat, or a city glam affair, Carissa’s insights will help you navigate the NYC wedding maze with confidence.Don't miss the chance to transform your wedding vision into reality, listen now and get the insider hacks to pick a location that truly reflects your love story.Perfect for couples in New York or planning a destination-style celebration in the city, this episode will change the way you think about venue hunting, and save you money, hassle, and regrets.Your dream wedding location is out there, let’s find it together.