Closing One Chapter, Opening the Next

As 2025 comes to a close, this episode is a pause — a moment to reflect on what this year has held, what it has taught, and what’s coming next.

In this final episode of the year, I’m sharing an honest reflection on the season behind us: the calm that came from building strong foundations, the lessons I learned as a leader and business owner, and the personal shifts that allowed me to be more present in both life and work.

We talk about why “less truly is more,” what it looks like to trust the team you’ve built, and how letting go of pressure — whether that’s industry expectations, constant growth, or fear of missing out — creates space for alignment and clarity.

I also share what I’m carrying forward into 2026, including a deeper desire to support and serve more people in meaningful ways. While full-service wedding planning isn’t accessible to everyone, this podcast is one step toward offering guidance, encouragement, and insight to couples who want to feel confident and supported throughout their planning journey.

This episode is an invitation — to slow down, to reflect, and to step into the next chapter with intention.

In this episode, we cover:

• Reflecting on 2025 and the power of strong foundations
• Why calm is a sign of systems working
• Leadership lessons on trust, boundaries, and presence
• Letting go of industry pressure and “doing it all”
• What it means to serve from a place of alignment
• Intentions for supporting more couples in 2026

As you listen, I invite you to reflect alongside me:
What are you proud of from this past year?
What are you ready to leave behind?
And what values or intentions will you carry forward into the next season?

Thank you for being here, for listening, and for being part of this journey. Here’s to closing one chapter — and opening the next.

Through the Eyes of Hannah & Emma: Secrets to a Memorable Celebration

Episode Description
In this special Christmas Eve episode, I am welcoming two very special guests onto the show—my twin daughters, Hannah and Emma. Born the day after Christmas and turning 13 this year, they join me to share their honest and heartfelt perspectives on what truly makes a celebration memorable.

From birthday parties and holiday gatherings to the small details that create magic, this episode blends meaningful family moments with practical insights you can apply to any celebration. Whether you are planning a wedding, a milestone birthday, or an intimate holiday gathering, this conversation is a reminder that the most impactful moments are often the simplest.

Sometimes, the best event advice comes from the most unexpected experts.

In This Episode, I Cover:

Birthday and Holiday Reflections

• What it is really like for my girls to have birthdays right after Christmas
• Hannah and Emma’s favorite birthday memories
• How shared celebrations can still feel personal and special

Secrets to a Memorable Celebration (Straight from My Kids)

• What they notice first when they walk into a party
• Their favorite party elements, from décor and food to games, music, and surprises
• What the perfect celebration looks like through a child’s eyes
• What they have learned from watching me plan parties and events
• The one thing that makes a celebration feel truly magical to them

I connect each of their answers to meaningful takeaways you can use right away.

Rapid-Fire Fun Round

• Favorite decorations
• Favorite party games
• Favorite desserts or treats
• Favorite party memories
• One word that describes a perfect celebration

This segment is lighthearted, playful, and full of candid moments.

Turning Observations Into Actionable Tips

I translate my girls’ insights into simple, effective planning advice, including:

• Why small, thoughtful details leave a lasting impression
• How interactive or surprising elements keep guests engaged
• Why personal touches matter more than expensive extras
• How creating anticipation elevates the experience
• The importance of paying attention to guests’ reactions

A Heartfelt Holiday Closing

• Why joy, thoughtfulness, and love matter more than perfection
• A reminder to focus on making people feel seen and celebrated
• A warm Christmas Eve message from my family to yours

Key Takeaway

You do not need an elaborate setup to create an unforgettable celebration. When people feel considered, included, and genuinely celebrated, that is what leaves a lasting impression.

From my family to yours, happy holidays and cheers to making every celebration unforgettable.

Jennifer Starr,

Owner of the J.Starr Wedding Company

www.jstarrweddingcompany.com

5 Styling Secrets to a Luxury Wedding Look on a Moderate Budget

Episode Description

You don’t need a sky-high budget to create a wedding that feels elevated, intentional, and truly luxurious. In this episode, I’m sharing my five favorite styling secrets to help you achieve a high-end wedding look without the high-end price tag.

From choosing the right venue to smart design investments that make the biggest visual impact, these tips will help you spend wisely, avoid common mistakes, and create a wedding day that feels timeless, beautiful, and full of heart.

Plus — I’m throwing in a bonus tip that can completely transform your space.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why your venue choice matters more than almost any other design decision
• The often-overlooked detail that instantly makes a reception feel more polished
• How upgraded chairs can completely change the look of your space (and how to save on them)
• Why classic design always wins over chasing trends
• How to repurpose florals for maximum impact without increasing your budget
• The power of lighting — and how it affects both ambiance and photos

Episode Breakdown

1️⃣ Choose a venue you truly love
Your venue sets the tone for everything. When the space is already beautiful, you don’t have to over-decorate or over-spend.

2️⃣ Don’t underestimate linens
Floor-length linens in the right color palette instantly elevate your reception and should be chosen earlier than most couples realize.

3️⃣ Upgrade your chairs (strategically)
The right chairs can transform a space — and many venues already have great options available if you know to ask.

4️⃣ Keep your design classic
Timeless design ensures your photos feel just as beautiful years from now as they do today.

5️⃣ Repurpose your ceremony florals
With a little planning, your biggest floral investments can work double-duty from ceremony to reception.

✨ Bonus: Lighting is everything
Uplighting, bistro lights, and candlelight can completely transform a space and set the mood for the entire evening.

Key Takeaway

Luxury isn’t about spending more — it’s about being intentional. When every detail is chosen with care, your wedding will feel elevated, meaningful, and uniquely you.

Quote Worth Remembering

“Luxury isn’t about spending the most money — it’s about how every detail makes you feel.”

Perfect For

• Couples planning a wedding on a moderate budget
• Brides who want a high-end look without unnecessary spending
• Anyone overwhelmed by Pinterest trends and looking for timeless guidance