Whispers to a Bride: Emotional Insight for your Wedding Drama (Kara Ghassabeh)
Explore every episode of Whispers to a Bride: Emotional Insight for your Wedding Drama
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Dec 2023 | Episode 124: Bailing as a Bridesmaid | 00:18:04 | |
What do you do when you are asked to be a bridesmaid and you said yes but as the wedding approaches you start to realize that you can’t do it? Today I explore the strategies for having uncomfortable conversations and highlight the importance of coming to the table with a genuine approach and treating the issue as something that you and your friend can tackle together. I also caution that the other person may have a devastating reaction to the news, and it's important to offer empathy and space for them to process their emotions. What you’ll learn from this episode: Navigating uncomfortable conversations Shifting the dynamic from opposition to problem-solving Explaining without blaming Being prepared for a negative reaction Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 05 Jan 2022 | Episode 25: Sibling Situation | 00:10:17 | |
The sibling experience is probably one of the most under-discussed aspects of the family drama unfolding during engagements. I think so many times people underestimate the siblings’ thoughts and feelings and what they go through when their sister gets married. It's so important to remember that you getting married is completely reshaping your family. Listen is as I discuss, how to help prepare your siblings for your upcoming wedding and why this is a great opportunity to strengthen your bond with them. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 30 Aug 2023 | Episode 109: A Generous Take | 00:13:29 | |
Today I want to talk about having a generous take when it comes to your wedding. It centers around viewing everything that happens during wedding planning through the lens of generosity. Being generous means pausing before reacting negatively and instead trying to understand and support others. By adopting a generous mindset, brides can strengthen their relationships and create a more positive and meaningful wedding journey. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 20 Jul 2022 | Episode 53: Bridal Bigness | 00:14:26 | |
A really fun way to get back to peace is by connecting to your bridal bigness. Bridal Bigness is the idea that you, as a bride, are part of a much bigger energy, and that energy has the peace, power, and emotional capacity that you need. Your bridal bigness is the antidote to fear, anxiety, stress, overwhelm, people pleasing, and insecurity. It is your creativity, your calm, your grace. It’s the quiet sense deep within that trusts things will be ok, somehow. In this episode, we will discuss how your bridal bigness is something you can tap into on purpose when you feel like you’re feeling drained, stressed, or depleted What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 28 Jun 2021 | Episode 2: What is Wedding Drama? | 00:14:37 | |
In today’s episode we are diving into wedding drama and why is it never about what it’s about. Wedding drama is real but it has the potential to be magic. So much of wedding drama is letting go of your old life and stepping into a new one. Brides feel so much pressure leading up to their weddings and that’s when the drama can set in. Listen in as I discuss, the pressures of social media, listening to everyone else and not ourselves, and the impact your wedding can have on your friendships. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out my website to learn how to work with me: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 29 May 2024 | Episode 146: The Green Dress Dilemma | 00:15:11 | |
In today's episode I’m sharing a conversation I had about a bride's experience with a bridesmaid dress issue. The bride, planning a beautiful wedding with a relatively large bridal party, requested her bridesmaids to wear floor-length dresses in varying shades of green. Most bridesmaids were accommodating, but one bridesmaid consistently sent dress options that did not meet the requirements. This dilemma highlights the underlying tensions and misunderstandings that can arise during wedding preparations, where seemingly trivial details can become magnified sources of stress. It serves as a reminder of the emotional intensity and unpredictability that can characterize such milestones, shedding light on the need for open communication, understanding, and compromise within relationships. What you’ll learn from this episode: How to handle issues with your bridesmaids Balancing Relationships and Requests Unpredictable Bridal Party Dynamics Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 24 Jan 2024 | Episode 128: Art of Gathering | 00:14:47 | |
In this episode, we delve into the book "The Art of Gathering" by Priya Parker, which explores the importance of purposeful and thoughtful gatherings. In a post-COVID world where authentic human connections are sought after, we discuss the advice given by Priya on planning gatherings with specific elements and purposes that allow guests to connect on a deeper level. Incorporating fun rules or activities, providing clear expectations through programs and menu cards, and incorporating rituals and conversation starters are just a few ways to facilitate connections among guests. What you’ll learn from this episode: The purpose and meaning behind weddings Setting expectations for guests Rethinking bridal showers beyond the traditional format Creating meaningful connections Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 11 Oct 2023 | Episode 115: Things Fall Apart | 00:15:59 | |
Weddings and life can sometimes fall apart. I encourage couples to remember that they are not alone on their wedding day and to reach out for support from loved ones or professionals if necessary. I believe that accepting this reality can ultimately lead to healing and personal growth. In this podcast episode, I discuss acknowledging when things have fallen apart and how you can embrace them. What you’ll learn from this episode: • Acknowledging that things will inevitably fall apart • Embracing the reality of things falling apart and not resisting or ignoring it • Preparing mentally for the possibility of falling apart on the wedding day • The importance of embracing emotions and not fighting them off Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 03 Nov 2021 | Episode 19: Help. Thank You. Wow. | 00:10:01 | |
Wedding planning can be tough- the opinions, the pressure, the money. But we do it because it’s also magical- the ritual, the dancing, the dress. In many ways, the journey from engagement to the wedding day is rocky for good reason. You are going to have to decide how you are going to manage yourself within this new ecosystem of married life. It can be stressful and draining while also exciting and beautiful. In this episode, I want to share with you three prayers or mantras that are the perfect anchor points as you go. Whatever you are experiencing, these three prayers are the lifeline you need at that moment. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 23 Feb 2022 | Episode 32: Why Brides | 00:15:54 | |
Today I want to answer a question I get a lot - why brides? People want to know why I don’t focus on couples. The answer is simple: the male experience of getting married is very different from a woman’s. Wedding culture shows this focus on the bride and what her wedding means about her. It all comes back to the history of weddings and the different viewpoints we have had on weddings. Listen in as I discuss why I am committed and secure in my decision to focus my work on brides. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 13 Sep 2023 | Episode 111: All the Feelings | 00:14:44 | |
Wedding planning can come with its fair share of pressure and expectations, but it's essential to prioritize the internal work and emotional journey that accompanies it. It’s important to embark on this journey with an open heart, allowing yourself to fully experience and process your emotions. Sometimes, things may fall apart during this transition, but it's through these cracks that we can rebuild ourselves in a more authentic way. In this episode, we are discussing how to embrace the full range of human emotions so you can celebrate your wedding day with joy. What you’ll learn from this episode: Dealing with hurt and frustration when people don’t show up for your wedding Expressing disappointment without causing conflict The importance of acknowledging and embracing all your feelings How to fully express and process your intense feelings Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 07 Jun 2023 | Episode 97: You Can't Get It Right | 00:09:48 | |
There are so many societal pressures and internalized beliefs surrounding weddings. Brides should be focusing on experiencing and enjoying their wedding rather than trying to achieve a certain standard. In this episode, I want to remind you to reflect on your own beliefs and to alleviate the pressure and stress that you may feel when planning your wedding. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 28 Jul 2021 | Episode 5: Weddings & Friendships | 00:19:41 | |
Sometimes our friendships can suffer when we get engaged and start planning a wedding. Yes, change changes things. Nothing has gone wrong, avoid the instinct to cut people off and try to make them understand. Allow your friends to have that processing time. In this episode, I am going over the five different themes as ways our friendships can suffer when we get engaged. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out my website to learn how to work with me: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 14 Feb 2024 | Episode 131: Disappointment & Delight | 00:15:11 | |
In today’s episode, I share a story from a TikTok video about a couple who reconsidered their expensive wedding plans for a more intimate and financially sensible celebration. Wedding planning can be a profound journey of learning and growth within a relationship which is why it’s important to have intentional choices that align with personal values and long-term goals. Listen in as we explore the often-overlooked duality of disappointment and delight in wedding planning. What you’ll learn from this episode: • The importance of being open, vulnerable, and making intentional choices • Embracing disappointment and delight as integral parts of the wedding planning journey • Advocating for open communication, vulnerability, and shared vision between partners • Considering essentialism and prioritizing what truly matters in wedding planning Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 06 Jul 2022 | Episode 51: Broken Engagements | 00:09:45 | |
I can remember hearing stories of a wedding being called off and thinking it was the most intense, heartbreaking yet fascinating thing. I mean, isn’t being engaged the most exciting perfect time of your life? How did you say yes and then only a few short months later, you are saying no? In this episode, we are exploring how one’s mind can change about something so major when so many people were watching. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 28 Jun 2021 | Episode 3: Bridal Blues & Change | 00:15:39 | |
In today’s episode, we are talking about all the negative emotions that brides feel that we don’t really make space for in our culture. We expect brides to be all smiles and pretend that nothing is wrong. We don’t give brides the opportunity to have the full range of emotions that a change like this requires. Listen in as I discuss the 4 squares of the change cycle you go through as you prepare for your wedding. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out my website to learn how to work with me: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 07 Aug 2024 | Episode 155: Plot Twist | 00:20:51 | |
In this episode, I share a compelling story about a bride I've been working with through multiple sessions. This particular bride found herself stuck between two beautiful venue options, grappling with conflicting values of aesthetics and guest experience. Through our discussions, we delved into the importance of clarifying personal values and navigating the emotional process of making tough decisions. This story serves as a poignant reminder of the fluidity of wedding planning and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst societal pressures and expectations. It showcases the transformative potential of embracing unexpected twists and allowing one's true essence to guide decisions, leading to profound self-discovery and a wedding celebration that truly reflects one's core values and aspirations. What you’ll learn from this episode: Letting Go of Expectations Embracing the Unexpected Reflecting on the Future Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 28 Sep 2022 | Episode 63: When Death Comes | 00:09:50 | |
There is a poem I put at the beginning of my book, Whispers to a Bride, called When Death Comes. The concept of both poetry and weddings is so compelling to me. Weddings and poetry sort of get shunned and discarded a bit culturally because they do seem frivolous and extra and not useful. I decided to include this poem that has been special to me. I think it encapsulates why this work matters. In this episode, I dive into this poem and what it means to being a bride. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 10 Aug 2022 | Episode 56: Anxiety Hacks | 00:08:26 | |
When you really think about weddings, the thing most people remember isn’t any specific detail, it’s how it felt. It’s the energy, the mood, the vibe. We try to achieve this with all of the elements like decor, food, lighting, and music, but the strongest factor in creating the wedding vibe you want is your own energetic presence. In this episode, we discuss how you set the tone for your wedding day and how to prepare for how you will feel on that day. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 23 Oct 2024 | Episode 165: Breath | 00:09:26 | |
In this episode, I dive into the profound significance of breathwork. As we navigate the various stresses associated with wedding planning and the monumental day itself, I aim to guide you in finding presence and embodiment to fully savor the joyous experiences you've curated for yourself and your guests. At the core of this transformative journey lies the simple yet powerful act of breathing—a tool that's always available to regulate your emotional state and reconnect with your body. As we move through this episode, I invite you to engage in a gentle practice of following your breath. I guide you in observing the sensations of inhalation and exhalation, encouraging you to fully immerse in the experience, whether during moments of relaxation or as a grounding technique amidst daily activities. By focusing on the simple act of breathing, you may discover a profound sense of peace, allowing you to engage with life one breath at a time. What you’ll learn from this episode: Introduction to breathwork The science and spirituality of just breathing harnessing your breath for wedding planning Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 18 Jan 2023 | Episode 77: Bridal Haunting | 00:12:59 | |
There are two people that mess you up in your bridal moment- your past and your future. With all of the constraints, pressures, and realities of actually bringing these wedding ideas into real life, it can cause such friction that you then think that conflict means you're doing something wrong. In this episode, we discuss giving yourself grace for both your past and future self and knowing you made the best decision at this moment. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 15 Jun 2022 | Episode 48: Q&A Day Of Tips | 00:12:41 | |
Today I am sharing some questions that I get for the day of your wedding. You want your wedding day to go smoothly but sometimes things happen. In this episode, we are going to talk about how to stay in the right mindset, gracefully getting out of conversations, and remembering your parents. My hope is that the answers to these questions will help you feel calmer as your wedding day approaches. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 14 Dec 2022 | Episode 73:Wedding Wake up Call | 00:17:38 | |
Your wedding is calling you to wake up in some way. It’s a powerful time to awaken to what’s going on for you. For some people, it's a wake-up call to art, beauty, and ceremony. To others, it's a wake-up call to old patterns that don’t serve them anymore In this episode, I’m discussing how your wedding can open your eyes to so many possibilities and life-changing events. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 23 Nov 2022 | Rebroadcast: Home for the Holidays | 00:12:20 | |
In this rebroadcasted episode, we are talking about the holidays - so many images of family togetherness, elaborate meals, festive decorations, favorite movies, gorgeous gifts, and lots of laughter (or this is what Hallmark movies make us believe it should be). But the holidays can be a source of anxiety, overwhelm, frustration, and sadness for a lot of people. This makes the holidays a lot like weddings, in our mind it’s all pretty and happy and fun but in reality, it’s so much more complicated than that. Listen in as I discuss, how to decide where to spend the holidays, mismanaged expectations, and focusing on what is in your control. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 04 Dec 2024 | Episode 170: Wedding Anxiety - Event or Life | 00:14:46 | |
In this episode, we discuss the complexities of wedding anxiety, distinguishing between the normal pre-wedding jitters and deeper concerns related to commitment and marriage. Many of the brides I talk to expressed an unsettling mix of emotions – they were unsure whether their feelings were typical wedding nerves or indicators that they might be making a decision that wasn’t right for them in the long run. Both types of anxiety are normal and even beneficial, as they signal self-awareness and caution about significant life choices. The key lies in embracing these feelings, engaging in dialogue regarding them, and separating the intertwined emotions associated with the wedding and the lifelong commitment of marriage. What you’ll learn from this episode: Understanding wedding anxiety The importance of self-reflection Embracing your anxieties Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 08 May 2024 | Episode 143: Sacred Shopping Part 1 | 00:28:10 | |
Today on the podcast, we have a special guest. Wendy Rivera is the owner of Ava Laurenne Bride and also has a consulting business called Do You Speak Bride? Your wedding is so much more than a numbers thing. It’s about people and love. Wendy really embodies that in her business and she tells us how she uses that approach when selling wedding dresses. We discuss how beautifully sensitive the engagement period is, the importance of having someone to walk beside you as a bride, and choosing the right wedding dress. What you’ll learn from this episode: How beautifully sensitive your engagement is Being open minded when it comes to dress shopping Finding the right people to help you with your wedding Trusting your gut Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: Connect with Wendy: https://doyouspeakbride.com/ | |||
| 10 May 2023 | Episode 93: Go to Bed Angry | 00:10:49 | |
Have you ever gone to bed angry at your partner? Most people always advise you never to go to bed angry after getting married, and I disagree with that. Sometimes going to bed when you're angry is the best thing you can do because being tired, or just fatigued itself will totally exacerbate conflict. In this episode, we discuss how sleeping is the key to resolving conflict and why your brain needs rest to understand your side of the argument fully. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 03 May 2023 | Episode 92: What We Are Not Doing | 00:10:33 | |
Do you know you can not do things at your wedding and you don’t need to give an explanation? There are so many opinions about weddings and what they should and shouldn’t include. One of the most stressful parts of wedding planning can be the marketing and the standards around what you're supposed to do and have at your wedding. In this episode, we discuss constraints, being unapologetic, and knowing just how powerful and strong it can be to declare and own those nos for yourself. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 25 Sep 2024 | Episode 161: Invitation to Mediation | 00:16:34 | |
In this episode, I’m excited to dive deep into the world of meditation and share insights that have truly transformed my practice over the years. I've often hinted at its importance in previous discussions, but it’s time to dedicate a full episode to this life-enhancing practice. Meditation doesn’t demand perfection. It’s about exploration and gentleness, allowing you to arrive back at your anchor. I encourage you to set a timer, breathe, and observe whatever sensations arise, treating them with kindness. Whether your meditation practice varies from extensive, dedicated sessions to brief moments of mindfulness, the most vital aspect is its availability to you whenever you need it. If you’ve ever felt hesitant about meditation—or if your attempts have felt like failures—this episode is designed especially for you. We’ll explore practical steps to help you get started, sustain your practice, or even reignite your passion for it. What you’ll learn from this episode: Embracing the journey of mediation The power of kindness in a meditation practice Eight tips to start meditating Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 10 Jan 2024 | Episode 126: I Hate My Ring | 00:12:50 | |
In this episode, we delve into the sensitive topic of not liking an engagement ring. We explore the disappointment that can arise when receiving a gift that doesn't align with our preferences, especially given the expectations surrounding engagements. Drawing from personal experience, I share how I discussed my ring preferences with my significant other prior to the proposal, highlighting the importance of liking the ring since it is a long-term investment piece. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges faced by those purchasing the ring and the overwhelming nature of the engagement ring industry. What you’ll learn from this episode: Adjusting to the Engagement Ring and Discussing Modifications Approaching the conversation with mindfulness and collaboration The importance of owning and articulating your own narrative Being grateful, calm, and considerate in navigating forward Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 25 Aug 2021 | Episode 9: How to Write Your Vows | 00:13:31 | |
In addition to being a life coach and helping brides with their wedding drama, I am also a wedding officiant. I love helping couples create their own ceremony that is true to them and the history of their families. In this episode, I’m giving you the 6 part structure to writing your vows that is easy, fun, and keeps your vows balanced. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out my website to learn how to work with me: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 22 Mar 2023 | Episode 86: Weight Loss & Weddings | 00:20:13 | |
What is going on with weddings and the weight loss pressure brides have? This is a question I received from someone on my bridal email list. We talk about what is going on with weddings and weight loss and why the pressure is so intense to be so thin on your wedding day. In this episode, we discuss diet culture, capitalism, and patriarchy. We dive into how they work together when having a mindset of being thin on your wedding day. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 12 Apr 2023 | Episode 89: Loving Boundaries | 00:13:13 | |
How do you set healthy boundaries with friends and family around your wedding? There seems to be a big talk on social media about setting boundaries during your wedding. A lot of people talk about boundaries in this really harsh way. Like setting a boundary, which basically means just keeping people out and I really like to imagine the boundaries much more like picket fences. It is meant to mark your space, your safe haven, and your zone where you are in charge. In this episode, we discuss setting healthy boundaries during your wedding, your common ground, your limitation, and your yes to set those boundaries. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 09 Mar 2022 | Episode 34: Le Pause | 00:15:38 | |
Have you ever heard the phrase Le Pause? Le Pause is a french baby sleep training technique where when you hear your baby cry in the middle of the night, you don’t rush straight away to get them, you give it a pause, and see if they resettle. I love this idea and I am advocating that we bring Le Pause to the bridal journey. Most brides jump right to wedding planning as soon as they are engaged but what if we took a pause here instead? In this episode, I explain why pausing is so important not only for yourself but for your relationship. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 21 Sep 2022 | Episode 62: The Goodbye | 00:13:46 | |
I have so many women who come to me with this feeling of unsettledness and feeling a little bit of grief and anxiety about just saying goodbye to their old lives. Especially if they've really grown to love the little routines that they've created for themselves, the friendships, the patterns, and the habits and their living space. In this episode, I want to normalize these feelings. Every transition, no matter how exciting, there's some nostalgia for leaving behind the life we had before. It doesn't mean anything is wrong with you or your fiance or that you shouldn't be getting married. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 05 Jun 2024 | Episode 147: Directionality of Delight | 00:14:32 | |
In this episode, I delve into a fascinating insight gained from a recent bridal session. The bride I worked with was exceptional, planning a grand, elaborate European wedding filled with intricate details and a desire to leave guests completely awestruck. She invested immense time, effort, and personal identity into bringing her dream wedding to life. However, as the big day approached, she grappled with the realization that guests might not view the event with the same significance and intensity as she did, leading to feelings of self-doubt and concern about the overall impact of the wedding. We discuss the transformative power of embracing one's creations, relishing in the beauty of the moment, and radiating delight from within. What you’ll learn from this episode: Embracing personal doubt Generating delight Relishing in the beauty of the moment Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 17 Aug 2022 | Episode 57: Whys | 00:17:47 | |
One of the best ways to address so much of the wedding drama you experience is a really simple, beautifully elegant practice of asking WHY. So much of what happens with weddings is based on all the assumptions and expectations and cultural norms. We lose track of what’s actually inside. What we really want. What really matters to us. In this episode, I discuss why it’s so important to apply the question to your relationship first and then apply it to your wedding. As you are brainstorming options continue to ask yourself why this makes sense, why this appeals to you, and why you thought this was important. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 25 Dec 2024 | Rebroadcast: Enjoy it, They say | 00:15:18 | |
There’s a lot of pressure to enjoy the wedding planning process, despite the overwhelming reality many brides face. Everyone is telling you to enjoy it, but the experience may not always feel enjoyable or like the best time of your life. Those people who say "enjoy it" are often reflecting on their own experience and wishing they had fully embraced the complexity and sacredness of the journey. In this episode, we discuss acknowledging the stress of planning a wedding and reassuring you that you are not alone. What you’ll learn from this episode: The disconnect between expectation and reality in planning your wedding Feeling alone on your wedding journey Finding joy in the stress Embracing the beginning of a new chapter Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 17 May 2023 | Episode 94: Emotional Elegance | 00:15:26 | |
Challenges always come up when you are planning a wedding. Your wedding is such a rich time of both challenge and opportunity to really learn more about yourself and figure out where your edges are that you really wanna lean into. Where you need help and where you need more insight, and just where you need more peace and compassion. In this episode, I’m talking about emotional elegance and how it can help you navigate this bridal experience. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 28 Feb 2024 | Episode 133: Proposal Whiplash | 00:17:07 | |
In this episode, we delve into the common phenomenon of feeling proposal whiplash, which many individuals experience after their engagement. W We explore the discrepancy between the perceived fairy-tale proposal, often portrayed on social media and in movies, and the more nuanced, quirky, and sometimes awkward reality that many face. I emphasize the idea that proposals don't have to be perfect or entirely surprising, as long as they hold personal significance. By shedding light on the concept of proposal whiplash and normalizing the complex emotions that can accompany engagements, this discussion aims to provide reassurance to those who may have felt overwhelmed or dissatisfied with their proposal experience. It reminds listeners to celebrate the unique aspects of their own stories and relationships, free from the pressure of conforming to idealized portrayals seen in media. What you’ll learn from this episode: What is proposal whiplash The power of being present Social media vs. real moments Embracing proposal whiplash Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 30 Mar 2022 | Episode 37: The Field | 00:07:54 | |
There is a quote by the Persian poet Rumi, “Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing there is a field. I'll meet you there.” In this episode, we discuss if it is really important to be right and what it can cost you. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 27 Jul 2022 | Episode 54: Golden Relationship Ratio | 00:07:20 | |
I am so excited to give you probably the quickest but most important, profound little thought as you are heading into your marriage. I call it the golden relationship ratio. The golden relationship ratio is five positive interactions for every negative one. For every eye roll, criticism, freak out or fight, you need five positive interactions with your partner. Research shows that couples who have this sort of ratio of positive to negative interactions with each other are the happiest, last the longest, and are the most satisfied. Listen in because remembering this golden relationship ratio is going to help your relationships so much. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 03 Jul 2024 | Rebroadcast: Final Days Freak Out | 00:20:00 | |
I have been receiving inquiries from brides who are feeling overwhelmed and anxious just days before their wedding, expressing various feelings of disappointment, anxiety, and sadness about different aspects of their big day. One of the reasons people may be hesitant to acknowledge their fears and stress as they approach important milestones is the fear that everything will fall apart if they admit to it. There is a worry that opening up will bring up too many unresolved issues that cannot be addressed before reaching their goal. In this episode, I discuss the idea of spreading the burden by sharing thoughts with a trusted friend or engaging in journaling. Unloading everything can bring peace and clarity in a situation that may otherwise feel isolating, especially for brides. Releasing these emotions is healing and helps to regain peace and confidence. What you’ll learn from this episode: The power of venting and journaling Healing through sharing Holding both joy and sorrow The importance of letting it out Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 17 Jul 2024 | Episode 152: The Happiness Trap | 00:13:47 | |
In this episode, we dive into the complex relationship between happiness and marriage, particularly focusing on the societal expectations and realities that many individuals encounter during wedding planning and beyond. We explore the dual nature of happiness, distinguishing between momentary joy and overall contentment, and the importance of recognizing and appreciating both forms. By fostering open dialogue, self-awareness, and a commitment to personal growth within your marriage, you can navigate the intricate journey of marriage with resilience, agency, and a steadfast focus on sustaining your own happiness and fulfillment. What you’ll learn from this episode: Navigating Happiness in Wedding Planning Gender Dynamics in Marriage Managing Expectations in Marriage Staying Mindful in the Happiness Trap Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 21 Feb 2024 | Episode 132: My Sister | 00:18:27 | |
In this episode, we explore the intricate role of being a sister to the bride. We are discussing how to manage expectations and how to deal with difficult family dynamics, emphasizing empathy, communication, and respect. I also share my personal journey and stress the importance of open dialogue to strengthen sisterly bonds during the emotionally charged wedding planning period. What you’ll learn from this episode: • Challenges and dynamics of being the sister of the bride • Understanding and adjusting expectations • Importance of communication, respect, and grace • Fostering a supportive and harmonious relationship during wedding planning Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 25 May 2022 | Episode 45: The Art of Noticing | 00:12:11 | |
This is another framework for getting into the feeling state that you want for your wedding day. It’s the art of noticing. There will be a lot to see and take in and the art of noticing will let you be intentional about what you take in, what you notice, and what you celebrate which will have you feeling better. In this episode, I share how stopping to notice your wedding is magical and fun and makes you appreciate it so much more. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 15 Mar 2023 | Episode 85: What's the Point? | 00:11:51 | |
There gets to a point in the wedding planning process where you’re just like, what is even happening because there are so many things changing. You start to notice a conflict between friends or family members during the wedding planning that was not there before and you begin to question, what is the point? There can be a lot of work, money, and effort and it can just be a lot but remind yourself that your wedding will be worth it. In this episode, we discuss the bigger picture of why weddings are so wonderful, making real sacrifices, and understanding you will be overwhelmed. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 16 Aug 2023 | Episode 107: We Lose the Way | 00:16:36 | |
Many individuals look back on their wedding day with regret because it didn't align with their initial expectations. In this episode, I emphasize the significance of pausing and reassessing one's desires amidst the whirlwind of societal pressures and expectations that come with wedding planning. It’s okay to make a pivot and change the style, venue, and guest list of your wedding. When feeling lost or angry, it's important to pay attention and listen to the underlying message that is trying to get our attention. By deciphering this message, we can bring more peace to our lives, weddings, and relationships. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 10 Jul 2024 | Episode 151: Don’t Be Delusional | 00:09:51 | |
In this episode, we delve into the concept of being delusional, particularly in the context of weddings. It's easy to fall into a delusional mindset when it comes to such a significant and unique event like a wedding, given its cultural, historical, and personal importance. We tend to imagine that on our wedding day, people will behave differently than they normally do, such as expecting a controlling mom to suddenly become calm and supportive. We are reminded not to delude ourselves into thinking that our loved ones will veer from their usual behavior just for our wedding day. It's crucial to base our expectations on reality rather than wishful thinking. It’s important to maintain a grounded and evidence-based approach to expectations surrounding your wedding. By acknowledging and accepting the reality of ourselves, our relationships, and our circumstances, we set ourselves up for a more fulfilling and authentic experience. What you’ll learn from this episode: The Delusional Mindset Planning for Reality Setting Informed Expectations Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 11 Sep 2024 | Episode 159: Day After Depression | 00:17:47 | |
It’s normal to be overwhelmed by waves of sorrow and regret about your wedding day. The heaviness of reflecting on what went wrong, from vendor issues to choices made that later seemed questionable, amplifies the sense of loss and frustration. This palpable grief is something that many don’t anticipate. In this episode, I explore the innermost thoughts of those who grapple with why certain moments didn’t meet their expectations and how this gap between fantasy and reality creates a deep emotional fallout. This emotional journey, while challenging, can also be a time of growth and learning, paving the way for future resilience. The lessons learned in processing post-wedding feelings can empower brides to support others in similar situations, fostering a sense of solidarity among women who have navigated the complexities of wedding planning and transitions into married life. What you’ll learn from this episode: Understanding the post-wedding blues Moving toward neutrality Finding self-compassions Embracing the complexity of weddings Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 13 Nov 2024 | Episode 168: Worse Case Scenarios | 00:08:54 | |
In this episode, I delve into the often unspoken fears surrounding wedding planning, focusing specifically on the concept of worst-case scenarios. After reflecting on a recent conversation with a bride, it struck me how commonly these worries manifest, creating an atmosphere of anxiety and stress for those preparing for what should be a joyous occasion. From concerns about unpredictable weather to familial tensions, the anxiety surrounding a wedding can lead to excessive spending and compulsive planning, detracting from the excitement of the event. Walking through the worst-case scenarios allows us to strip away the layers of fear. What do you do if it rains? You create a backup plan. What happens if emotions run high on the big day? You learn to embrace those feelings instead of fearing them. This practice doesn't just mitigate anxiety; it fosters a sense of strength and stability as you prepare for one of life's most significant milestones. What you’ll learn from this episode: Confronting wedding day anxieties Turning toward anxiety Embracing solutions Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 05 Jul 2023 | Episode 101: It Could Have Been Better | 00:13:43 | |
In this podcast episode, I want to reflect on a recent conversation I had with a client who wasn't completely satisfied with her wedding, even though it went well overall. It got me thinking about the importance of self-validation and not relying solely on external validation. I believe it's crucial for individuals to give themselves some space and grace before reflecting on their wedding experience. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching
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| 28 Jun 2023 | Episode 100: Loving Kindness | 00:15:19 | |
Do you want to find a way to soothe and center yourself during stressful times? In the 100th episode, I’m sharing a simple practice called the loving kindness meditation that can help you do just that. I encourage you to make the practice your own and use it as a tool to find alignment and grounding in your life, especially during the stress and sacredness of wedding planning. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 16 Nov 2022 | Episode 70 : The Subtle Shift | 00:19:03 | |
Today I really want to bring it back to basics and talk about the subtle shift. It's all about that shift that happens in our relationships when we get engaged and start the wedding planning process. It's kind of this invisible unfolding that goes on once you go through that proposal experience. You have to reroute yourself. You have to reconsider things. You have to relearn and re-decide your inner landscape and your closest relationships. In this episode, we unpack the process you go through once you become engaged and the shifts that happen in your life. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 28 Jun 2021 | Episode 1: What is Bridal Coaching? | 00:17:19 | |
Welcome to the Whispers to a Bride Podcast. In this first episode, I am explaining the fundamentals about what is bridal coaching and how it can help you. There is so much focus on wedding preparation and looking good for your wedding but we don’t focus on how to have more peace in your own mind, your own heart, and your relationships. Listen in as I discuss, how bridal coaching can help your entire married life, the missing piece I discovered to planning a wedding, and the importance of relationships during this time. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out my website to learn how to work with me: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 29 Sep 2021 | Episode 14: Can You Just be Happy for Me? | 00:16:58 | |
Getting engaged is that short window in life where everything is magical and full of hope and possibility. So why would anyone need a life coach during this time? Most people who have been through this season of life will tell you that it is far more of an emotional rollercoaster than most people anticipate. Listen in as I discuss, how maybe more time is needed, looking at the way you talk about your engagement, and giving others grace. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out my website to learn how to work with me: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 27 Apr 2022 | Episode 41: Feel Good on the Big Day | 00:11:39 | |
How can you manage your feelings on the big day? How can you make sure you feel the way you want to feel? You want to feel good. You want to enjoy it. You want to be happy. You want to be present and soak it all in. But how? It can feel like it’s the thing you have the least control over. You think that you have to wait to see what happens in order to know how you are going to feel. In this episode, I just want you to flip the paradigm a bit. Your wedding day isn’t going to tell you how to feel, you are going to tell your wedding day how your feel. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 08 Dec 2021 | Episode 23: Regret Proof Your Wedding | 00:14:11 | |
One of the reasons making all the wedding decisions can be so stressful is that you don’t want to have any regrets. You are spending a lot of money and the photos will last forever and you don’t want to look back and regret your color scheme or your dress or even your bridal party choices. What if I told you there were no wrong choices. There were the choices that you made for the reasons and circumstances the present situation allowed. Listen in as I discuss, the concept of wrongness, the importance of making a choice, and living in the moment. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 21 Dec 2022 | Episode 74: Navigating the Holidays | 00:16:05 | |
You've got your holiday traditions and what you envision. Then you've got what you wanna do as a couple. Then there are your in-laws and what they're expecting and hoping for. It can get to be a lot. Then you're also carrying with you all of the memories and the history of all of those holidays from your past. For some people, those are all really good memories but for a lot of people, those can be also really a mixed bag. this episode, we discuss the dynamics that come up during the holidays and I give you my five tips for managing family gatherings with your fiancé or your new partner. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 15 Nov 2023 | Episode 120: Your Wedding is a Poem | 00:20:30 | |
Weddings can also be viewed as performances, where couples may feel pressured to impress others or seek validation through social media. I suggest reframing weddings as poems, emphasizing their brevity and ephemeral nature. Just like a poem with a few lines can be beautiful and impactful, a wedding is a concentrated emotional experience. In this episode, we discuss how a wedding is an offering - a gesture of love and gratitude to our community, family, and friends. It doesn't have to be perfect or extravagant, but it should come from a place of abundant love. What you’ll learn from this episode: Why you should view your wedding as a poem The power and structure of a wedding poem How your wedding is experienced differently by everyone The magic of your wedding Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 22 Jun 2022 | Episode 49: Love Languages | 00:14:44 | |
Today we are talking about one of my favorite topics - love languages. Love languages are a framework for how to show and receive love in a relationship. It helps you understand your partner better and be able to show them love in a way they will respond to. In this episode, we discuss the 5 love languages so you have a better understanding of how to show your partner love and how you like to be shown love also. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 09 Nov 2022 | Episode 69: Diamonds & Doubt | 00:16:32 | |
Feeling doubt about your relationship when you are newly engaged or even knee-deep in wedding planning is a scary place to be. Nobody wants to feel doubt when they've got that diamond ring on. That's just not the time and our culture doesn't really make room for this. In this episode, I want to talk about normalizing having some doubt at this time in your life and why the engagement period is the perfect time to give your doubt some space to play out. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 19 Jul 2023 | Episode 103: Q+A In The Moment | 00:09:20 | |
In this episode, I am answering your questions. We are discussing how to handle being in the spotlight when you don't enjoy it, particularly for more introverted brides and how to savor the engagement period and ensure it is fully enjoyed. I emphasize the need to approach wedding planning with intentionality, to embrace each moment, and to appreciate the love and support from family and loved ones. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 13 Apr 2022 | Episode 39: What Do You Yearn For? | 00:10:24 | |
When we think about weddings, we think about what we want them to be. Where we want them, what it will look like, the flowers, the music, the dress, the food, the dance floor, the guest list, and all the details. We think about Pinterest, Instagram, and Tik Tok. We think about the movies we have seen, we think about the weddings we’ve been to, and the images that have been in our minds. Yet, if we don’t ask ourselves the deeper question, our wants can feel really empty. They can fail to deliver on the happiness that they seemed to promise. In this episode, I want you to ask yourself a million times what do I want and let yourself go nuts. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 01 Dec 2021 | Episode 22: Great Expectations | 00:12:22 | |
If there is one thing I could tell every couple getting married, it’s that the biggest risk to your engagement journey, from wedding planning to the big day to the newlywed year- is expectations. Expectations are those notions that live inside our heads that we are mostly unaware of. We kinda think it’s just normal, or we mistakenly think that everyone shares the same expectations. We tend to live inside our own expectations. Listen in as I discuss, asking for help, understanding your feelings, and the importance of looking at what is happening right in front of you What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Check out Episode 3: Bridal Blues | |||
| 17 Jan 2024 | Episode 127: Papercuts | 00:10:59 | |
I’m diving into the concept of "papercuts" in relationships. Papercuts are those small, negative interactions or disappointments that can occur in relationships. While they may seem insignificant in the moment, these incidents can add up and have a significant impact on the overall health of the relationship. In this episode, I stress the importance of addressing and repairing these paper cuts in order to maintain a healthy and strong bond. What you’ll learn from this episode: The impact of small wounds in relationships The importance of not ignoring bids for connection Repairing the small papercuts in relationships Owning your emotions and seeking repair Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 23 Aug 2023 | Episode 108: Plus One Drama | 00:16:21 | |
In this episode, we are discussing the sensitive topic of plus ones when it comes to wedding invitations. The guest list is often a challenging aspect of wedding planning, as it determines not only who will attend but also has budget implications. Etiquette books offer guidelines on who should receive a plus one invitation, such as engaged couples or those living together. However, I believe that there is no one-size-fits-all rule and that couples need to have open conversations to draw the line. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 25 Oct 2023 | Episode 117: Be Nice | 00:20:40 | |
Today's topic is self-compassion, which is often dismissed as basic and cliché but is actually crucial for finding peace in relationships and alignment in wedding planning. It is important to be kind to ourselves and explore the concept of self-compassion beyond the surface level self-care. In this episode, we discuss the three components of self-compassion and the impact they can have on our emotional well-being. What you’ll learn from this episode: The importance of being kind to yourself The key to peace and alignment Finding comfort in shared experiences Practicing mindfulness in wedding planning Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 26 Oct 2022 | Episode 67: Art of the Ask | 00:12:04 | |
You want to have the perfect wedding right? You want to have control over your wedding and be in charge of everything. But you also don’t want to burden people and feel like you should just handle it all yourself. In today’s episode, I’m discussing building up your muscle of asking for help. You can’t do it all (and you shouldn’t either). People want to help so let them in. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 12 Oct 2022 | Episode 65: The Dress | 00:14:39 | |
Shopping for your wedding dress is one of the major moments where all of the pressures that are unique to a bride come together. It's one of those moments that you think about as a child. But it’s not just about the pretty dress, it's all of these undercurrents that are happening too. It can be heartbreaking, stressful, and overwhelming but also poignant and memorable. In this episode, we discuss the pressure of finding the perfect wedding dress and what that can make us feel like. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 16 Oct 2024 | Episode 164: Visit Yourself | 00:10:43 | |
In this episode, I dive into the crucial concept of "visiting yourself," a phrase that surfaced during a unique dental experience I had. Amid the haze of laughing gas while undergoing a tooth extraction, I felt a profound disconnect from my body, which led to a sudden clarity: the need for individuals, especially brides, to reconnect with their authentic selves during the turbulent wedding planning process. The wedding planning journey is often fraught with anxiety and societal pressure. For many women, the transition from being a woman to a bride, and potentially to a wife and mother, brings an overwhelming flood of external influences. It isn’t uncommon for brides to feel that their worth lies in achieving an unrealistic ideal, whether through aesthetic perfection or flawless event execution. I explore how these pressures lead to a frantic pursuit of approval—from relatives, friends, and especially from the curated imagery on social media platforms. When caught in this cycle, it becomes all too easy to lose sight of personal instincts and desires, drowning in a sea of external expectations. What you’ll learn from this episode: The pressure of perfection Reconnecting with your inner self Grounding for joy Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 08 Feb 2023 | Episode 80: Grief & Weddings | 00:34:40 | |
How do you get through your wedding after you have lost a loved one? This is something a lot of women deal with on their wedding day. Today I’m talking with Meredith Lynch about going through her wedding after she lost her mother. She left the emotional part out and did what she felt was right for her on her wedding day. Meredith is a writer and pop culture analyst who lives in Los Angeles. In this episode, we discuss hiring a wedding planner instead of having bridesmaids, and the experience of planning and having a wedding after a parent passed away. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 07 Dec 2022 | Episode 72: Don't Miss the Moment | 00:17:47 | |
We are taught to think that getting engaged and planning our wedding are moments of joy, excitement, accomplishment, success, and a feeling of wholeness, completeness, integrity, and all of these things. But they never feel the way we thought they were going to feel. It's always a bit more disorienting, complex, and overwhelming while being very underwhelming at the same time. In this episode, I want to help you learn how not to miss the moments. It can be really easy to overlook tending to and preparing that emotional part of the experience. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 04 Aug 2021 | Episode 6: Your Parents | 00:13:20 | |
Our culture is so singularly focused on the romantic love narrative that I think it really misses out on the love story that’s also wrapped into the wedding day- specifically with our parents. Parents think about the day- who they will be on that day, how they will feel, it’s a completion of their job in many ways. They think about how they pay for it. The bottom line is your parents are going through a major change and all of the emotion that comes with it. They are dealing with the relationship reshuffle, the new family dynamic, and the new life phase. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out my website to learn how to work with me: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 30 Nov 2022 | Episode 71: The Repair | 00:19:06 | |
When you are planning your wedding, the stakes are really high. There are so many things to worry about like time, money, family, culture, and tradition. Not to mention that it’s a huge change in your life!! Since tensions are high, there are bound to be conflicts. In this episode, I’m discussing how to de-escalate and calm things down in a loving way so you can have a healthy relationship and bond. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 24 Apr 2024 | Episode 141: What are you trying to do? | 00:16:16 | |
Today we dive into the concept of constantly questioning one's safety and worthiness, which can lead to emotional baggage and materialistic pursuits in an attempt to fulfill these needs artificially. We explore how societal pressures and cultural norms play a significant role in exacerbating anxiety and stress, particularly evident in wedding planning, where there is a heightened focus on appearances, expectations, and external validation. I offer practical advice and a reflective framework to guide you towards a more authentic and fulfilling wedding planning journey rooted in self-awareness and intentionality. What you’ll learn from this episode: Importance of Core Values in Wedding Planning Reflecting on Intentions in Wedding Decisions Navigating External Influences in Wedding Planning Dealing with Regrets and False Pretenses Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 14 Aug 2024 | Episode 156: Curiosity | 00:08:34 | |
In this episode, I reflect on the topic of curiosity and its importance in our lives. Curiosity is not just an emotion but a perspective and a framework that we often lose as we grow older. I share how curiosity plays a significant role in my work as a therapist, especially in couples counseling where understanding each partner's perspective can lead to breakthroughs in communication and understanding. By cultivating a curious mindset, we can unlock new possibilities, gain fresh perspectives, and approach challenges with creativity and empathy. So, the next time you encounter conflict, remember to lean into curiosity and witness the positive impact it can have on your interactions and relationships. What you’ll learn from this episode: Rediscovering curiosity Embracing curiosity in relationships How curiosity can solve conflicts Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 18 Sep 2024 | Episode 160: Neutrality | 00:11:23 | |
In this episode, we explore the powerful concept of neutrality in relation to weddings, a topic that resonates deeply whether you're in the throes of planning your big day or reflecting on the aftermath of the celebrations. As we delve into the often overwhelming nature of weddings—the intense emotions, high expectations, and societal pressures—we uncover how embracing neutrality can serve as a grounding force. This perspective allows for a more balanced view, helping individuals to navigate anxiety both before and after the wedding day. Neutrality not only serves as an emotional anchor but also permits individuals to honor the various truths, emotions, and reflections that a wedding elicits. What you’ll learn from this episode: Neutrality in wedding planning Embracing the messy middle The power of neutral thoughts Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 22 Dec 2021 | Rebroadcast: Bridezilla Myth | 00:13:18 | |
Happy Holidays! I am bringing back an old episode today all about bridezilla myths. We are going to take a look at what the term, bridezilla, does for women, brides, and the wedding industry. The bridezilla myth adds this extra layer of stress for brides. They are so worried about becoming a bridezilla that they are not processing their emotions of what is actually underneath that. Listen in as I discuss, what the term bridezilla means, how society puts pressure on brides, and what you can do if you feel yourself becoming a bridezilla. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out my website to learn how to work with me: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 19 Apr 2023 | Episode 90: How You Do One Thing | 00:13:47 | |
How you do one thing is how you do everything. We seem to think that once our wedding is over our life, friendships, and family dynamics will return to normal. Understanding that the discord and disconnect that we as the bride are feeling around our wedding ceremony may actually point to a much bigger issue. In this episode, we discuss boundary setting, figuring out the things that bring you joy, and understanding how our life can change after our wedding. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 22 May 2024 | Episode 145: Let Them Be Wrong | 00:09:54 | |
Today we are exploring the concept of softening into the idea that it's okay if others misunderstand or misinterpret decisions made during wedding planning and to release the need to constantly clarify or seek approval. By embracing the mantra "let them be wrong," brides can let go of the rope in interpersonal dynamics, returning to a place of inner clarity and self-assurance. By accepting that misunderstandings may arise and choosing to let others be wrong about you, a sense of peace and empowerment can be cultivated. It’s so important to trust oneself, prioritize personal peace, and extend love and understanding to those who may hold misconceptions. What you’ll learn from this episode: The concept of “let them be wrong” Softening Into Acceptance The importance of not seeking approval from others Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 22 Nov 2023 | Rebroadcast: Weight Loss & Weddings | 00:20:13 | |
Happy Thanksgiving! This week I am rebroadcasting one of my older episodes that I think you would love to hear again. What is going on with weddings and the weight loss pressure brides have? This is a question I received from someone on my bridal email list. We talk about what is going on with weddings and weight loss and why the pressure is so intense to be so thin on your wedding day. In this episode, we discuss diet culture, capitalism, and patriarchy. We dive into how they work together when having a mindset of being thin on your wedding day. What you’ll learn from this episode: How worthiness is tied up in your weight The different kinds of diet cultures and how they market to get you to spend your money on being thin for your wedding Taking a pause and really thinking about why you want to be thin on your wedding day Deciding to love yourself, accepting your body, and taking care of your body to be able to be at your best on your wedding day. Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 17 Apr 2024 | Episode 140: Dresses and Moms | 00:13:18 | |
In today's episode, we delved into a listener's email regarding wedding dress regret and the influence of their mother during the dress shopping process. The listener expressed feeling immense anxiety over their choice of wedding dress and regretting involving their mom too much in the decision-making. We explored the common phenomenon of second-guessing wedding choices and the tendency to overly critique past decisions once the moment has passed. I emphasize the importance of being kind to oneself and reframing the situation positively. It's crucial to develop a relationship with one's past and future selves that is supportive and understanding, allowing for growth and self-compassion. What you’ll learn from this episode: Reframing Regret and Self-Kindness Redefining the Significance of the Wedding Dress Infusing Meaning and Compassion into Choices Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 03 Aug 2022 | Episode 55: Identity Crisis | 00:14:16 | |
Becoming engaged changes how a woman sees herself. For some, it’s the completion of an aspect of their identity. For others, it is more of a threat to the identity they have created for themselves so far in life. Whether you waited for the ring or it happened faster than you anticipated, you need an adjustment period to integrate this new identity, this new framework for your life into your understanding of yourself. So, if it feels like you are having an identity crisis, you are doing it right! What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 29 Mar 2023 | Episode 87: Friendship Fallouts | 00:17:03 | |
What to do when you are planning your wedding and you have a falling out with one of your bridesmaids? This topic came up from many conversations with brides and bridesmaids on TikTok. Understanding that sometimes it takes spending a lot of time planning a wedding to realize your friendship was over. In this episode, we discuss friendships falling out, understanding the dynamics of your friends have changed, and realizing the friendship isn’t worth your investment of time, energy, effort, or money. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 10 Nov 2021 | Episode 20: How to Start a Fight | 00:11:46 | |
One thing we know about marriage is that there will be conflict. It’s inevitable. So many people try to avoid it, thinking if they can just not fight that they will be better off. Of course, avoiding conflict isn’t a healthy move- issues will linger, resentments will build. The most interesting thing about marital conflict is that it’s mostly unresolvable. Yikes! So all the energy and passion that goes into those fights doesn’t tend to get us the outcome of resolution that we so desire. Listen in as I discuss, how you start a discussion is how it ends, asking for what you need, and rephasing what you are angry about. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 27 Oct 2021 | Episode 18: Wedding Happiness Guarantee | 00:11:29 | |
One of the most intense things about planning a wedding is that after all the time and effort and money, how do you even make sure you are happy on the actual day? So many things could potentially happen. There is so much riding on this day- can those 8 hours live up to the hype of your own expectations, your childhood fantasies, months of planning, so many conversations. It certainly is a lot of pressure. What we know about happiness is that it’s certainly not more likely to appear amid intense pressure. Happiness is light, spontaneous, playful. But it’s also not as aloof as we think. Listen in as I discuss choosing happiness, why your thoughts are important, and what you can actually control on your wedding day. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 16 Feb 2022 | Episode 31: Let Them Be Wrong | 00:15:35 | |
If you are like me, you want people to understand you, to get you. I have learned that there isn’t always room for it, in the place, time, or setting that you want. So let them be wrong. I am obsessed with this mantra right now. There is something so freeing about it and it comes up so much in wedding planning. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 24 May 2023 | Episode 95: Your Wedding is Art | 00:14:04 | |
I love a good metaphor. It's such a useful way of getting our brain into a little bit more of a creative space, which helps with problem-solving and just being a little lighter and less sort of rigid and dialed in on getting results and getting things perfect the way that we want them, which often happens in the wedding world In this episode, we are discussing how your wedding is a great way to express yourself and the importance of taking a step back to view your wedding as art. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 17 Nov 2021 | Episode 21: Home for the Holidays | 00:12:20 | |
In today’s episode, we are talking about the holidays - so many images of family togetherness, elaborate meals, festive decorations, favorite movies, gorgeous gifts, and lots of laughter (or this is what Hallmark movies make us believe it should be). But the holidays can be a source of anxiety, overwhelm, frustration, and sadness for a lot of people. This makes the holidays a lot like weddings, in our mind it’s all pretty and happy and fun but in reality, it’s so much more complicated than that. Listen in as I discuss, how to decide where to spend the holidays, mismanaged expectations, and focusing on what is in your control. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 06 Sep 2023 | Episode 110: My Mom Hates My Dress | 00:08:06 | |
What can you do when your mother don’t approve of your wedding dress but you love it? Sometimes we have to prioritize our own happiness over the expectations and desires of others, even if it means disappointing our own mothers. This leads us to contemplate how many times we have sacrificed our own desires in an attempt to please others, potentially leading to a life of constantly seeking validation and approval. In this episode, we explore the underlying factors that contribute to this issue, ranging from financial concerns to body image insecurities, questions of identity, and the dynamics of parental relationships. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 24 Jul 2024 | Episode 153: Wedding PR | 00:11:57 | |
In this episode, I delve into the world of wedding PR with a focus on how brides perceive their weddings through the lens of others. Brides need to embrace the importance of owning one's story and crafting a narrative that aligns with personal values and intentions. By embracing your inner PR persona, you can confidently present your decisions and choices, thereby reducing the impact of external opinions. Rather than striving to please everyone and control perceptions, I advocate for a shift towards authenticity and self-approval. What you’ll learn from this episode: How to own your story Standing by Your Story Crafting Your Narrative Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||
| 26 Apr 2023 | Episode 91: After the Ring | 00:12:30 | |
How can you deal with the highs and lows that come with getting engaged? After receiving the ring from your fiance, you get overwhelmed with excitement and are just on a high of good emotions. But you can get a little caught off guard by the feelings of anxiety or fear that come after that high of getting engaged. In this episode, we discuss going public with the engagement, fundamental issues, and knowing it’s very normal to feel some discomfort in your relationship as you're starting to look at it with a whole new lens. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 20 Mar 2024 | Episode 136: Fulfillment Curve | 00:13:33 | |
In today's episode, we delve into the concept of consumption, weddings, and capitalism, exploring the idea of 'enough'. Drawing parallels to weddings, we discuss the escalating trend of excess in ceremonies, from multiple dress changes to intricate personalized details. The allure of consumerism and the pressure to exceed expectations in weddings often results in overspending and accumulating unnecessary items that later become burdensome waste. By shedding light on the consequences of unchecked consumption and the societal pressure to 'do more', I aim to guide individuals in reevaluating their priorities and setting boundaries to ensure a wedding celebration that aligns with their values and brings genuine joy What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: | |||
| 09 Aug 2023 | Episode 106: Remove the Question Mark | 00:15:07 | |
Too often, brides go into their wedding day with a sense of uncertainty about how they will feel. They worry about factors like the weather, logistics, and even the behavior of others, leaving their emotional state up to chance. However, we have more control over our feelings than we may realize. In this episode, we discuss how it’s essential for brides and grooms to take the time to imagine how they want to feel on their wedding day and set that as their goal. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching
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| 28 Jun 2021 | Episode 4: Bridezilla Myth | 00:13:18 | |
In today’s episode, we are going to take a look at what the term, bridezilla, does for women, brides, and the wedding industry. The bridezilla myth adds this extra layer of stress for brides. They are so worried about becoming a bridezilla that they are not processing their emotions of what is actually underneath that. Listen in as I discuss, what the term bridezilla means, how society puts pressure on brides, and what you can do if you feel yourself becoming a bridezilla. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out my website to learn how to work with me: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 08 Sep 2021 | Episode 11: Hold Two Things | 00:07:01 | |
I want to give you a really simple reminder that is key for your wedding but also for your life and it’s a phrase I come back to time and time again and it’s, hold two things. It’s about the duality of life. There are always opposing things happening at the same time. Listen in as I discuss, the importance of holding two things, how holding two things can make your wedding day better, and the feeling you will get by holding two things. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out my website to learn how to work with me: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching | |||
| 08 Mar 2023 | Episode 84: How to Handle the Goodness | 00:14:38 | |
How do you process and take in all those gifts and good wishes and people showing up for you, people supporting you, and people celebrating you on your wedding day? This is a question I got from one of my one-to-one bridal coaching calls. She thought everyone who came to her wedding was doing so much for her, and it was amazing and she appreciated it, but it also felt uncomfortable and it just felt like too much. In this episode, we discuss feeling a little bit overwhelmed by all of this goodness coming at you, gratitude, and ways to give thanks to the people or gift you on your wedding day. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 14 Jun 2023 | Episode 98: Best Planner Advice | 00:11:07 | |
Are you planning a wedding and feeling overwhelmed by all the advice out there? I recently came across a TikTok video that really stood out to me and I wanted to share my thoughts on it with you. The wedding planner in the video emphasized the importance of having a peaceful, joyful, and flexible attitude, and how it can make a huge difference in the overall wedding experience. In this episode, I’m discussing setting the right tone and energy for your wedding so you can feel peace and joy. What you’ll learn from this episode:
Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out The Bridal Prep Academy: https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, Whispers to a Bride: https://www.amazon.com/Whispers-Bride-handle-stress-drama/dp/B0BCRXBQFN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UXWJVJOF3MNI&keywords=whispers+to+a+bride&qid=1662643892&sprefix=whispers+to+a+bride%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1 | |||
| 11 Dec 2024 | Episode 171: Foundations | 00:14:43 | |
In this episode, we dive into the principles of relationship building through the framework offered by the Gottman Institute in their book "Eight Dates," exploring the foundations necessary for a successful partnership. Over the next three episodes, we will focus on these essential conversations, beginning with the critical themes of trust and conflict. Trust, which is fundamental, is built over time through consistent, small actions that reflect care and reliability, rather than grand gestures. Commitment acts as the glue, reinforcing the trust between partners and emphasizing the decision to choose each other every day, even amidst challenges. I encourage couples to engage in meaningful conversations about what trust and commitment look like in their lives—asking questions about personal histories, triggers related to trust, and how they can nurture each other’s sense of security. What you’ll learn from this episode: The foundations of relationships Building trust and commitment navigating conflict Featured on the show: Follow me on Instagram to learn more about navigating your wedding with grace and ease: https://www.instagram.com/karaghassabeh/ Check out **The Bridal Prep Academy:** https://karamaureen.com Let’s connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraMaureenBridalCoaching Get your copy of the book, **Whispers to a Bride:** | |||