This Takes The Cake

The Wedding That Survived the Record-Breaking Heat 18.06.2026 37min

In this episode, Sara sits down with Lauren and Jeffery to relive their June 30, 2012 wedding during one of the hottest weekends in South Carolina history. From sweating through khaki suits and editing sweat out of wedding photos to guests hiding in their cars for air conditioning, they share the hilarious reality of a record-breaking heat wave wedding. The conversation also goes beyond the big day as they open up about losing everything in a house fire less than a year later, rebuilding their lives together, and where 14 years of marriage has taken them. Follow us on all the things!⁠https://www.stunningandbrilliantevents.com/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stunningandbrilliantevents/ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thistakesthecakepodcast/⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@sandbevents⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@stunningandbrilliantevents⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@thistakesthecakepodcast⁠ Check out Lauren & Jeffery! Lauren: https://www.instagram.com/laurenbjensen/Jeffery: https://www.instagram.com/jeffreyjensen/Paratransform: https://www.instagram.com/paratransform/

Derby Disaster: Going Viral 11.06.2026 45min

In this episode of This Takes The Cake 🍰, Payton is joined by Faith—longtime assistant turned lead planner in our Myrtle Beach office—to break down the wedding video that unexpectedly went viral about Derby Day. What started as a fun, real behind-the-scenes moment quickly spiraled in the comments, proving just how wild the internet can get. They’re diving into what actually happened, how quickly online narratives can shift, and why none of it mattered when it came to what was most important—the couple had an incredible, seamless wedding day surrounded by happy guests.They also get real about the wedding planning industry and why experience matters—especially when it comes to why we don’t offer day-of coordination. From managing logistics to handling unexpected moments in real time, this episode is all about the value of having a team that truly knows how to run a wedding day from start to finish. A candid conversation on viral moments, online chaos, and keeping your focus where it belongs.

From "I Do" to App Launch 04.06.2026 40min

In this episode of This Takes The Cake 🍰, Caroline from Tampa sits down with Michelle, founder of Guestlist, who built her app while planning her own destination wedding in Argentina. From how she met her husband to what it was really like planning an entire wedding weekend from afar, Michelle shares the behind-the-scenes of creating an unforgettable guest experience—and launching a business at the same time. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to turn a wedding pain point into something bigger, this one takes the cake.Follow us on all the things!⁠https://www.stunningandbrilliantevents.com/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stunningandbrilliantevents/ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thistakesthecakepodcast/⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@sandbevents⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@stunningandbrilliantevents⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@thistakesthecakepodcast⁠

Building FiftyFlowers with Liza Roeser 28.05.2026 41min

This week on This Takes The Cake, Sara sits down with Liza Roeser, founder and CEO of FiftyFlowers, to talk about how a Peace Corps assignment in Ecuador unexpectedly led her into the floral industry — and eventually to building one of the most recognizable flower companies in weddings. From shipping flowers farm-direct before online ordering was even normal, to helping thousands of couples create DIY wedding florals, Liza shares the risks, lessons, and moments that shaped FiftyFlowers into the industry powerhouse it is today. Plus, we ask Liza what truly “takes the cake” in her career and life.Follow us on all the things!⁠https://www.stunningandbrilliantevents.com/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stunningandbrilliantevents/ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thistakesthecakepodcast/⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@sandbevents⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@stunningandbrilliantevents⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@thistakesthecakepodcast⁠

SEO That Actually Books: The Wedding Pro’s Guide to Getting Found 21.05.2026 45min

In this episode, we sit down with SEO expert Sara Dunn to break down how wedding pros can actually get found online—without the overwhelm. From understanding what SEO really is (in normal human terms) to fixing the most common mistakes vendors make, Sara shares actionable strategies that go beyond just “posting pretty blogs.” We dive into strategic blogging, showing up in local searches, and how AI is changing the way couples find vendors. Whether you’ve never touched your SEO or know you’ve been doing it wrong, this episode is packed with tips that can help you start booking more of your dream clients—straight from Google.Follow us on all the things!⁠https://www.stunningandbrilliantevents.com/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stunningandbrilliantevents/⁠https://www.instagram.com/thistakesthecakepodcast/⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@sandbevents⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@stunningandbrilliantevents⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@thistakesthecakepodcast⁠ Check out Sara! https://saradoesseo.com/https://www.instagram.com/saradoesseo/

Orlando Launch Story: Meet Faith 14.05.2026 48min

This week on Take the Cake, Dallas sits down with Faith, the powerhouse behind the newly launched Orlando office of Stunning & Brilliant Events. From how she first got her start with S&B to what it really looks like to open and lead a brand-new market, Faith shares the highs, the challenges, and the behind-the-scenes moments you don’t see on wedding day. It’s a candid conversation about growth, taking big leaps, and building something of your own—all with a little wedding industry chaos mixed in.

From the Groom: Inside Alex & Annie’s Flagler Museum Wedding 07.05.2026 1h 1min

What’s it really like planning a luxury wedding—from the groom’s perspective? 👀 In this episode, Jacque of Stunning & Brilliant Events sits down with Alex to break down every moment of his and Annie’s stunning Flagler Museum wedding, from how they found S&B to the behind-the-scenes decisions, unexpected challenges, and those “this takes the cake” memories. We’re talking groom POV (yes, they have opinions too), design choices shaped by personality, and the moments that made this wedding feel so them, while Jacque shares what it takes to pull off a seamless day at an iconic venue—and the little things guests never see. If you’re a future bride, groom, or planner, this one’s packed with real advice, honest reflections, and a few fun surprises along the way.

Where to Actually Splurge vs. Where to Fake It 30.04.2026 51min

In this episode, Caroline and Alex break down one of the biggest wedding planning questions: where should you actually spend your money, and where can you save without anyone noticing? From the vendors that truly impact your wedding day—like photography, entertainment, and planning—to the details couples often overspend on, like favors, signage, and trendy décor, they share honest advice and real examples to help couples spend with intention. They also dive into common budget mistakes, debate “splurge vs. save” scenarios, and explain why creating an unforgettable guest experience matters more than trying to impress with every detail. If you’re planning a wedding and want to make smarter decisions with your budget, this episode is packed with the expert insight you need to spend where it matters and fake the rest.

Behind the scenes: TV Production VS. Client Events 23.04.2026 57min

Ever wondered what it’s like planning an event for TV instead of a wedding or party? 🎬💐 Join Jacque and Chris and Madelyn from Heritage Floral Design as they spill the behind-the-scenes secrets of working with a production team. From timelines, calls, and emails to budgets, layouts, and florals that look perfect on camera, they share what it really takes to pull off a flawless event when the cameras are rolling. Hear the challenges, the surprises, and the moments that “took the cake” — and get a rare peek into the world where event planning meets TV magic!

Inside S&B: Franchising, Team Culture & 15 Years In 16.04.2026 36min

Ever wondered what it’s like to work at Stunning & Brilliant Events? 💍✨ They spill the behind-the-scenes of what it’s like to be part of a luxury, nationwide wedding company, how franchising works, and what it takes to collaborate with Sara and other franchises. Plus, get a peek into S&B’s fun team culture, including their unforgettable trip to St. Martin, and hear all about the adventures, bonding moments, and stories that make working here so special. Perfect for anyone curious about weddings, team culture, or joining S&B!

Pop Culture Meets Wedding Style 09.04.2026 52min

Pop culture meets wedding magic! 💍✨ Join Payton and Caroline as they dive into all the ways movies, TV shows, celebrity love stories, influencer events, and classic literature inspire today’s weddings. From Wuthering Heights–inspired gothic romance to Bridgerton garden-party vibes, onscreen weddings that steal our hearts, and influencer-inspired monograms and guest experiences, we’re breaking down the trends and sharing tips to make them your own. Whether you’re a bride, groom, or just obsessed with all things wedding style, this episode is packed with inspo, laughs, and pop culture fun!

Love, Weddings & Windy City Life 02.04.2026 33min

Lauren, our Chicago owner, and her husband Randy are sharing their real-life wedding story —and yes, they’re original Stunning & Brilliant wedding clients! In this episode, they talk about planning their own wedding over 10 years ago, launching the S&B Chicago franchise in 2020, and what it’s really like being married to a wedding planner. They also chat about life with their daughter Scarlett, how she views mom’s wedding world, and the hilarious traditions that make their family unique—including the Christmas tree that transforms into a Valentine’s tree every February. From “this takes the cake” moments to business, family, and love, this episode is a sweet (and very Chicago) look at building a life together on and off the aisle.

Ultimate Guest Experience: with Preston Lee 26.03.2026 48min

In this episode, Sara sits down with Preston Lee, founder of The 30% Rule and hospitality expert, to talk all things guest experience. From how they first connected to what makes an experience truly memorable, Preston shares insights that are just as valuable for wedding and event vendors as they are for brides, grooms, and anyone looking to elevate how they show up for others. Whether it’s leadership, culture, or intentional hospitality, this conversation is packed with practical advice and big-picture takeaways you can apply in business, life, and of course, creating unforgettable events.Follow us on all the things!⁠https://www.stunningandbrilliantevents.com/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stunningandbrilliantevents/ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thistakesthecakepodcast/⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@sandbevents⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@stunningandbrilliantevents⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@thistakesthecakepodcast⁠

Ultimate Guest Experience: Respectfully… That’s Not Our Job. 19.03.2026 46min

In this episode of our March Guest Experience series, we’re pulling back the curtain on the things we don’t do — and why that actually makes your wedding better. Yes, we care deeply about your guests and the overall experience, but we’re not babysitters, security guards, chauffeurs, therapists, or miracle workers. From hiding exes to flipping entire receptions mid-event (true story), we’re sharing some of the wildest requests we’ve ever received and explaining how strong professional boundaries protect your timeline, your vendors, and your guests’ comfort. Because the best weddings don’t happen when one person tries to do everything — they happen when everyone knows their role.

Ultimate Guest Experience: Wedding Weekends 12.03.2026 30min

Wedding weekends are officially having their moment — and honestly, one day just isn’t enough anymore. In this episode, Sara and Madison break down why full wedding weekend celebrations are becoming the new must-have, especially for destination weddings and couples with lots of out-of-town guests. From welcome parties and after-parties to farewell brunches and “take the cake” experiences they’ve seen firsthand, they share why extending the celebration creates better guest experiences, less stress, and way more meaningful memories. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels like a full-on experience (not just a timeline), this episode is for you.

Ultimate Guest Experience: Bachelorettes and hotel experiences 05.03.2026 20min

Join Alyssa, our Charleston owner, as she sits down at the Moxy Hotel Charleston with Deme from our S&B Charleston team to talk all things room blocks, bachelorettes, and creating an elevated guest hotel experience for your wedding weekend. From choosing the right property for your crew to maximizing amenities, planning seamless welcome vibes, and turning your hotel into part of the celebration, they’re sharing insider tips on how to make your guests feel taken care of from check-in to after-party. If you’re planning a Charleston wedding weekend and want it to feel intentional, elevated, and anything but basic, this one’s for you.Follow us on all the things!⁠https://www.stunningandbrilliantevents.com/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stunningandbrilliantevents/ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thistakesthecakepodcast/⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@sandbevents⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@stunningandbrilliantevents⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@thistakesthecakepodcast⁠

Love Stories: Paula & David Player 26.02.2026 42min

Photographer Paula and videographer David join Sara on this episode of our Love Stories series to share how their separate journeys into the wedding industry eventually became a shared creative career. They talk about what drew them to weddings, how they navigate working side by side as a married photo + video duo, and the challenges and joys of building a business together. Along the way, they get candid about what wedding days are really like behind the scenes, the moments that make it all worth it, and how their partnership has shaped both their work and their relationship. And of course, no episode would be complete without a “this takes the cake” story. Full of heart, humor, and insider perspective, this episode is a must-listen for couples, creatives, and anyone who loves a behind-the-scenes look at wedding life.

Love Stories: The Davey Duo 19.02.2026 52min

On this Love Stories episode, Madison chats with The Davey Duo — the DJ + photographer husband-and-wife team who met and got married at Wedding MBA. They share how a vendor conference turned into a wedding venue, what it’s like working weddings as a couple, and the moments that make it all worth it. If you love unique meet-cutes and insider wedding stories, don’t skip this one. Follow us on all the things!⁠https://www.stunningandbrilliantevents.com/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stunningandbrilliantevents/ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thistakesthecakepodcast/⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@sandbevents⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@stunningandbrilliantevents⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@thistakesthecakepodcast⁠

Love Story: Balancing Love, Family & Business 12.02.2026 29min

As part of our February Love Stories series, we’re sitting down with Alyssa, our Charleston owner, and her husband Ben to talk about love, family, and building businesses side-by-side. They’re sharing how they met in college while Alyssa was launching her wedding planning career, how Ben ended up owning our sister mobile bar company Leon or Lime CHS, and what life looks like now with their one-year-old son, Liam. From supporting each other through busy seasons to navigating parenthood and entrepreneurship at the same time, Alyssa and Ben open up about what works, what’s messy, and their unforgettable “this takes the cake” moment—giving us a sweet, funny, and real look at love in the wedding world.Follow us on all the things!⁠https://www.stunningandbrilliantevents.com/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stunningandbrilliantevents/⁠https://www.instagram.com/thistakesthecakepodcast/⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@sandbevents⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@stunningandbrilliantevents⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@thistakesthecakepodcast⁠

Love Stories: Behind the Lens with Kristy & Vic 05.02.2026 53min

This episode is part of our Love Stories Series for February, where we’re celebrating love in all its forms — including building a life and business side by side. 💍📸 Host Jacque (Palm Beach) sits down with Kristy & Vic, a husband-and-wife wedding photography duo known for capturing joyful, timeless love stories while being the ultimate calm-meets-hype team on wedding days. From working together as creatives and spouses to collaborating with planners across markets (including our Charlotte owner Ashley!), they’re sharing real-life lessons, behind-the-scenes moments, and stories that truly take the cake.Follow us on all the things!⁠https://www.stunningandbrilliantevents.com/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stunningandbrilliantevents/ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thistakesthecakepodcast/⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@sandbevents⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@stunningandbrilliantevents⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@thistakesthecakepodcast⁠