In this episode of Cut The Cake, we’re answering your questions and diving into all things wedding planning—from vendor timelines to unexpected budget blowouts and how to keep your guests entertained in ways they’ll actually remember.

We kick things off with a conversation around booking timelines. Once you’ve locked in your venue and date, that’s when it’s time to start securing your vendors. We break down what to prioritise, what often gets overlooked, and how to manage expectations—especially when it comes to popular suppliers and high-demand dates.

We also chat about one of the biggest planning pain points: budgets. We unpack where most of the money really goes (hint: it’s probably your venue and catering), how to approach quotes with confidence, and why it’s worth having open conversations with your florist or stylist about what's actually possible within your price range.

Guest experience is something we’re both passionate about, so we share some of our favourite ways to create interactive, memorable moments—from mini-golf during cocktail hour to hiring a live illustrator or using custom signage as keepsakes. It's all about choosing thoughtful details that reflect you.

And because planning can feel overwhelming, we offer a few of our go-to strategies for staying sane—like setting up a dedicated wedding email, tuning out the noise of unhelpful opinions, and keeping your circle of trusted voices small and supportive.

Whether you’re knee-deep in planning or just getting started, this episode is full of honest insights, practical tips, and a gentle reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to doing your day your way.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut the Cake, we dive headfirst into the whirlwind world of wedding expos—from both sides of the booth.

We’ve walked the aisles as attendees and stood behind the tables as vendors, so we know exactly how exciting, overwhelming, and wildly inspiring expos can be. In this conversation, we share what we’ve learned from years of being part of the wedding expo scene—our biggest lessons, the surprising things we weren’t prepared for, and the small details that make all the difference.

We talk about how to walk into an expo with a clear plan and realistic expectations, rather than trying to lock in every vendor on the spot. For couples just starting out, expos can be an incredible way to gather ideas, get a feel for different styles, and actually touch things—like paper stock, signage, and fabrics—before making any decisions. But they’re also a lot to take in. That’s why we recommend creating a vendor hit list, checking out the schedule in advance, and pacing your day (snack breaks included).

We also chat about the importance of region-specific expos. Attending events in the area you’re getting married can help you discover local gems and connect with vendors who truly understand your venue, weather, and vibe. And yes—we’ll never stop talking about the importance of bringing extra blank place cards. Because when your cousin shows up with a surprise plus-one? You’ll be glad you had them.

Throughout the episode, we reflect on the tactile magic of expos—especially for things like stationery—and how they can help bring your vision to life when approached with the right mindset. Whether you're newly engaged or deep in planning mode, we hope this episode leaves you feeling more empowered, inspired, and ready to tackle your next expo with confidence.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut the Cake, we explore the latest trends, helpful tools, and practical tips we’re seeing (and loving) in the wedding planning space right now.

We reflect on one of the most important but often overlooked parts of the planning journey: the engagement period. Taking time to soak in that just-engaged bubble before announcing it to the world can give couples space to enjoy the moment without outside pressure. It's okay to wait. You don’t have to start planning the second that ring hits your finger.

Throughout the episode, we share real advice for making the day more meaningful—like creating code words or signals that allow you and your partner to pause and connect privately amidst the celebration. We talk through the budgeting process too, encouraging couples to spend where it matters most to them, not just where tradition or Instagram says you should.

This conversation is all about finding clarity in the chaos. Whether it’s setting up a separate wedding email to keep everything organised or making sure you’ve worn in your wedding shoes (seriously—don’t skip this!), we’re all about helping you make intentional choices that reflect you. Because your wedding should be a celebration of your story—not a performance for everyone else.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut The Cake, we unpack an unusual trend making waves across Victoria’s wedding industry—a noticeable lull in bookings for late 2025. After observing this shift firsthand, we explore the potential causes, from post-COVID engagement timelines to the ongoing effects of the economic climate, including rising costs and interest rates.

While the quieter calendar may seem puzzling, it presents a golden opportunity for couples who are ready to plan their weddings on a shorter timeline. With many premium vendors still available for late 2025, this episode is packed with encouragement for couples to lean into the flexibility and possibility of spontaneous, well-curated celebrations.

We also take a forward glance into 2026 and the emerging trends shaping modern weddings. From the rise of editorial styling and interactive elements to the increasing popularity of faux florals and creative signage, we share insight into the evolving details that are defining this next era of events. Think: luxe fabric signage, custom linens, and personal touches that leave a lasting impression.

Whether you're a couple starting to plan or a vendor curious about industry shifts, this episode offers grounded insight into what’s happening now—and what’s coming next.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut The Cake, we return after a whirlwind wedding season to share behind-the-scenes stories, reflections, and new developments from our businesses—Mellyrain Creative and Event Wanderer Co.

After a short pause in episodes during peak wedding season, we’re back with fresh updates and an all-new structure designed to deliver even more honest insights and practical advice for couples planning their weddings.

We dive into our personal highlights from the season. Mellyrain Creative was recently featured in Vogue for a styled and coordinated wedding—an exciting moment that sparked a deeper look at the realities and politics of being featured in high-profile publications. Event Wanderer Co also had a dynamic season, focusing on bespoke themed stationery projects and professional print services tailored to both full-service clients and DIY couples looking for elevated, polished results.

Throughout the episode, we explore wedding trends such as the growing popularity of guest personalization, the shift toward niche vendor offerings, and the increased demand for transparency and authenticity in the industry. We’ve also refined our services to reflect our strengths: full-service wedding planning and styling, and thoughtfully curated design-to-print stationery solutions.

We also offer a reminder to couples to dig deeper when evaluating potential vendors, features, and awards—encouraging thoughtful, values-aligned decisions when building their dream day.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

Are you planning a wedding in Australia and feeling a little overwhelmed? Or maybe you’re feeling like planning your wedding is becoming a second full time job, and you just wish there was something out there that could help you with short, sharp but more importantly helpful wedding planning tips!

Well get ready lovers, because our newest season of Cut The Cake which we have dubbed the Short & Sharp Series is made for engaged couples looking for quick, to the point, real talk helpful wedding planning tips!

We have so much wedding planning intel to share and we know everyone’s time is valuable. So each episode of the Short & Sharp Series will be less than 5 minutes long allowing you to get the valuable wedding planning intel you need and want, fast!

Listen to a new episode every Tuesday and remember to also follow us on social media @cutthecakepodcast @mellyraincreative and @eventwandererco for extra wedding planning tips throughout 2025.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

Are you planning a wedding in Australia and feeling a little overwhelmed? Or maybe you’re feeling like planning your wedding is becoming a second full time job, and you just wish there was something out there that could help you with short, sharp but more importantly helpful wedding planning tips!

Well get ready lovers, because our newest season of Cut The Cake which we have dubbed the Short & Sharp Series is made for engaged couples looking for quick, to the point, real talk helpful wedding planning tips!

We have so much wedding planning intel to share and we know everyone’s time is valuable. So each episode of the Short & Sharp Series will be less than 5 minutes long allowing you to get the valuable wedding planning intel you need and want, fast!

Listen to a new episode every Tuesday and remember to also follow us on social media @cutthecakepodcast @mellyraincreative and @eventwandererco for extra wedding planning tips throughout 2025.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

Are you planning a wedding in Australia and feeling a little overwhelmed? Or maybe you’re feeling like planning your wedding is becoming a second full time job, and you just wish there was something out there that could help you with short, sharp but more importantly helpful wedding planning tips!

Well get ready lovers, because our newest season of Cut The Cake which we have dubbed the Short & Sharp Series is made for engaged couples looking for quick, to the point, real talk helpful wedding planning tips!

We have so much wedding planning intel to share and we know everyone’s time is valuable. So each episode of the Short & Sharp Series will be less than 5 minutes long allowing you to get the valuable wedding planning intel you need and want, fast!

Listen to a new episode every Tuesday and remember to also follow us on social media @cutthecakepodcast @mellyraincreative and @eventwandererco for extra wedding planning tips throughout 2025.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/