This Is What It’s Like to Be a Wedding Planner

Wedding planning is no joke. There are so many parts to planning your big day, and for some brides, it’s easier to have an event planning pro come in and take care of everything. But if you’re a gal who adores every single detail of organizing a wedding and can keep cool under pressure, you might want to consider a future as a wedding planner. In this week’s How to Quit Your Day Job series, we chat with Shauna Gartz, who started her own event planning company Shauna Loves Planning. Below, Gartz shares her journey from corporate event planner to boss lady.

(Photo via Anne Liles Photography)

MEET THE WEDDING PLANNER PRO: SHAUNA GARTZ

After spending seven years planning events and weddings for corporations, wedding and event planner Shauna Gartz decided to take the leap and start her own company. Based in Wilmington, North Carolina, the mom of three sons turned her top-notch organizational skills, attention to detail, and love for weddings into a full-time career. On her website, happily married couples rave about Gartz’s ease and calm and how she took care of every wedding moment from start to finish. The planner extraordinaire lets us in on her day-to-day, what she loves most about her job, and how she turned her dream of working for herself into reality.

(Photo via Anne Liles Photography)

Brit + Co: What’s your morning routine?

Shauna Gartz: After I’ve gotten my boys dressed and fed, made lunches, and dropped everyone off at school or grandma and papa’s house, I treat myself to a cup of coffee. I can’t start my work day without it! As a wedding planner, I believe one of the most helpful things I can do for my couples is to make the planning process as easy and fun as possible. Responding to their emails or phone calls in a timely manner achieves both. (I can’t tell you how many of my clients have expressed their appreciation for this.) The first thing I do every morning is check my email and return any phone calls. If it’s an event day, then I pack my vehicle and head out the door to begin set up and installation. If it’s not an event day, then I’m usually working on whatever event needs my immediate attention. My boys are in preschool three days a week in the mornings, and then spend a couple afternoons each week with grandma and grandpa, so that’s when I get the majority of my work done. That and a few late nights here and there!

(Photo via Theo Milo Photography; Floral designs by Kim Fisher Designs)

B+C: What inspired you to start your company?

SG: I was working as an event planner for a golf and country club on an exclusive island, accessible by ferry boat only, with two young boys at home. I loved what I did, but I also wanted to be present in my boys’ lives while they were still young. I had been contemplating starting my own event and wedding planning business for about eight years, and finally one day it hit me just how much time I was wasting commuting to work. It was a 45-minute drive, followed by a 30-minute boat ride, followed by a 10-minute golf cart ride before I sat down at my desk. And I had to do it all over again to get home, which was three hours a day that I could have been either working or playing with my kids. The company I worked for was understanding and allowed me to work from home two days a week. I did that for about a year and a half, but I needed to work for myself from home.

(Photo via Anne Liles Photography; Floral designs by Fiore Fine Flowers)

B+C: How do you challenge yourself as an entrepreneur?

SG: I push myself to go outside of my comfort zone and take on various projects or tasks that are new to me, but things I still enjoy. My strengths are planning a wedding, but the business side of accounting, advertising, and social media upkeep are my weaknesses. My goal this past year has been to outsource any part of my business that doesn’t bring me joy so I can focus on what does.

(Photo via Anne Liles Photography; Floral designs by Fiore Fine Flowers)

B+C: Tell us about how your family and friends help support your business.

SG: My husband Matt is my number one supporter. There’s a wedding pastor I work with frequently who preaches at weddings that, “in marriage, your successes are doubled because you have someone to share them with. Also in marriage, your sorrows are lessened because you have someone to share them with.” Matt fully embodies this for me. He is excited for every step the company takes, for every great review received, for every compliment paid. He’ll be the first to have my back and be there to steady me.

My family has also helped in numerous ways, from proofreading my website before launch, to congratulatory texts and phone calls and spreading the news on social media. My in-laws and parents provide ongoing help with babysitting our three boys whenever I have an event or a project that needs my attention. I launched Shauna Loves Planning in October 2015 — six months after having my second son — and then in April 2017, right at the start of my wedding season, I gave birth to my third son. Fortunately, I have an amazing assistant, Ashley Pate, who has worked with me since the beginning, and was able to run that first wedding of the 2017 season solo so I could recover a bit from the delivery. The following weekend, at our second wedding of the year, my husband accompanied our week-old son to his very first wedding so that I didn’t have to be away from him all day, while my mom, who was staying with us for a month, stayed home with our two older boys. It really does take a village!

(Photo via Theo Milo Photography; Floral designs by Special Arrangements by Lyn Moser)

B+C: What’s the best advice you’ve ever gotten?

SG: When I first got into wedding planning, I worked for a country club as their in-house event planner and catering sales manager. Lindsey Cheek, the woman whom I was replacing, came back to train me for a couple days and she said something that has stayed with me since: “You have to be the voice and advocate for your couples.” What she meant is that it was my responsibility to make sure that no corners were cut and no details were missed. At every wedding, there are a hundred moving parts and dozens of vendors working together to produce the most perfect day for two very special people. As a wedding planner, it’s my responsibility to make sure that everyone did what they were supposed to do because there are no do-overs at a wedding.

B+C: What do you love about your job?

SG: That I get to be there for the happiest day in two people’s lives. [And] I love the whole process of finding out who my clients are, what they like to do, and what their styles are, and developing a vision around it. I love working with some of the very best vendors in the industry. One of my absolute favorite bakeries, One Belle Bakery, I discovered through working in the wedding industry and they have since created every cake, cupcake, and cookie for every birthday or special event my family has celebrated. I met photographer Theo Milo while working, and he has since photographed each of my children shortly after birth and every year following. A favorite florist of mine, Kim Fisher Designs, not only did the flowers for my own wedding and a large percentage of my clients’ weddings, but they have also become like family to me. My clients all tell me that I make them feel calm because I’m calm. There’s a reason why I’m calm before a wedding — when you surround yourself with some of the very best vendors in the business, it’s easy.

(Photo via Theo Milo Photography; Floral designs by Kim Fisher Designs)

B+C: Name two female heroes who you think should get a shout-out.

SG: My mother Joani Harris was a working mom, but I don’t ever remember her not being there. She gave and never needed anything in return (except hugs). She was always so patient — something that did not get passed down to me unfortunately — but because of that, she is someone I aspire to be more like.

I think every woman in my life has been an inspiration for me. I take little pieces of each of them with me, in everything I do and everywhere I go. My sister, best friends, aunts and grandmothers, previous coworkers and employers, teachers and coaches, and even now, my brides. I’ve had such an astounding group of women play so many important roles in my life. I really don’t think I’d be the woman, mom, or business owner I am today without their influence.

B+C: If you could tell aspiring creative women anything, what would it be?

SG: Just do it! I can’t tell you how many times I thought about creating my own wedding and event planning company before I finally did it. I was pretty sure I could do it, but for years, doubt always found a way to creep in. The safety net of an employer was too alluring. Until one day I decided that I don’t want to look back on my life with regrets. I would much rather have tried and failed than never even tried. Not only am I doing what I love and working for myself, but I also get to control how much I work and when I work. Being a mom of three young boys has its challenges, but I get to be there for each of those challenges, each adventure, and each new milestone. Yes, I trade in my mommy hat for my planner hat some weekends and I still struggle with balancing both worlds, but I manage because both are important to me. Being a mom makes me a better planner and being a planner makes me a better mom. I know where to find a face painter at the last minute, as well as the best birthday cakes and a thousand other things I never would have thought of if it hadn’t been for my chosen career path.

If you’re thinking about doing something and wondering if you can or should, start doing it. Take the steps toward making it happen and the rest will follow. For me, it was creating my website. One night I got on my computer and started designing pages and writing content. The next day I worked on it a bit more and when I got it to a point where I was happy with it, I set the next steps in motion. So start taking the steps to get you where you want to be!

What’s your dream career? Tweet us @BritandCo to let us know, and we could feature it in the next column!

Bachelorette parties have been around for decades, but they've come a long way from the days of predictable bar crawls and tacky accessories.

In 2025, modern brides and their besties are ditching outdated traditions in favor of celebrations that feel more authentic, inclusive, and, overall, more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Sure, some classic elements still hold their charm and humor (like gifting the bride-to-be saucy items for her wedding night), but many old trends simply don't make sense anymore, whether they're financially burdensome, aesthetically overplayed, or just plain exhausting.

Here are eight old-school bachelorette party trends that, in our humble opinion, need to stay in the past or be retired once and for all.

Scroll to see which outdated bachelorette party trends you really should stop in 2025...

1. Expecting Bridesmaids To Foot The Bill For Destination Celebrations

Orlando Filho

Life today is already painfully expensive, and while getting asked to be a bridesmaid can feel like an honor, it just piles on even more costs.

You'll have to buy a dress, get your hair and makeup done, purchase a gift, and possibly arrange hotel accommodations or childcare for the day of the event. So, why bridesmaids are expected to drop hundreds if not thousands of dollars on flights, hotels, dining, and activities for a destination bachelorette party is beyond us.

Yes, a weekend in Miami or Las Vegas could be epic, but not everyone can afford to splurge on a mini-vacation just because their friend is getting married. Unless everyone involved feels comfortable spending that kind of money on a bachelorette trip, just pick a more budget-friendly option, like a one-day celebration or even a short road trip closer to home.

2. Matching Outfits

George Chambers

Coordinated bachelorette party outfits definitely had their moment, but nowadays, the idea of forcing everyone into the same cheesy T-shirts or color-coordinated dresses can be overboard.

Again, some bridesmaids may view it as an unnecessary expense that's not worth it for a cute Instagram photo. Plus, personal style and comfort matter, so if you have bridesmaids with different aesthetics and body types, at least one may just end up feeling uncomfortable the whole time.

That's why looser clothing themes or overall color palettes are a safer way to go.

3. Sashes, Tiaras, and Cowboy Hats

King Shooter

If you truly love the idea of parading around in sashes, tiaras, and hot pink cowboy hats during your or your friend's bachelorette party, more power to you. Honestly, though, the accessories have begun to feel more like a cliché than anything.

They can come across as tacky and overdone. Not to mention, they're usually cheaply made and end up in the trash by the end of the night.

Our advice? Save your money and invest in more stylish, personalized touches, like custom accessories or jewelry.

4. Brides Only Wearing White

Los Muertos Crew

Traditionally, brides have stuck to wearing only white throughout their whole bachelorette party celebration. That's still fine, but if the idea makes you feel restricted, don't be afraid to break the mold.

If you want to switch it up by mixing in colors or patterns, don't let anyone stop you. Remember, your bachelorette party is supposed to be fun for you.

You shouldn't allow social media photo ops or general societal expectations to dictate what you can and can't wear during your own party.

5. Cringey Slogans

Yuliia Auer

We've all seen the slogans that brides and their bridesmaids use for their bachelorette parties, either on apparel, decor, or hashtags for social media. For instance, "Bride Tribe," "I Do Crew," or even "Last Fling Before The Ring."

Like sashes and cowboy hats, the slogans are cliché and sometimes just cringeworthy. You don't need a catchphrase to have a good time, and if you want one, maybe go the more unique route.

6. Getting Blackout Drunk Every Night

AMBADY KOLAZHIKKARAN

Spoiler alert: you don't have to get blackout drunk every single night to enjoy a bachelorette party.

We get it: throwing back some shots or sipping on wine all day can be fun, especially with your girlfriends. But if you have a whole day (or even weekend) planned, getting wasted can be a recipe for disaster.

First, you'll probably be hungover or generally unhappy for later activities. Moreover, alcohol has the ability to raise tensions and spark drama, which can bulldoze the group dynamic.

Obviously, you can still kick back and indulge a little. However, keep the bride in mind and strive for a balance to make memories that you'll actually remember.

7. Over-Scheduling The Itinerary

Nano Erdozain

Since multi-day bachelorette parties are so popular, it can be tempting to pack your group's itinerary chock full of activities. And suddenly, things that sound exciting on their own, like brunch, yoga, wine tasting, dinner, or clubbing, feel like an exhausting checklist when scheduled literally back to back.

Realize that the reason for bachelorette parties is for brides to connect and bond with their closest friends. Leave room for spontaneity, downtime, and relaxation. Wedding planning is already stressful enough as it is.

8. Not Considering What The Bride Wants

Melike B

Finally, at the end of the day, a bachelorette party should be about celebrating the bride. So, if bridesmaids are tasked with planning the celebration, the bride's personality and interests need to be considered.

It's time to retire the idea that every bachelorette party has to follow a cookie-cutter formula. If the bride isn't into clubbing, don't plan a huge night out! Or, if she's more of a homebody, don't push for a major trip.

The best bachelorette parties are the ones that feel thoughtful and personal, not just trendy. And if you have any doubts about what the bride wants, all you have to do is ask her.

Looking for more wedding planning tips? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Trader Joe’s has all the best festive flavors for St. Patrick’s Day, and their shelves are undeniably stocked up with seasonal gems you won’t want to miss. From Irish-inspired cheeses to sweet treats with a lucky twist, there’s no shortage of fun (and delicious!) ways to celebrate this year. If you're looking to add some festive energy to your grocery haul, these TJ’s finds are the perfect way to get into the spirit.

Scroll on for 13 epic Trader Joe's finds you need to add to your cart for St. Patty's Day!

Trader Joe's

Kerrygold Irish Cheddar With Chili Peppers

Whether you use this spicy grass-fed cheddar for a charcuterie board, on top of steaming-hot baked potatoes, or for bite-sized grilled cheeses, your St. Patty's party will be so glad you grabbed it.

Trader Joe's

Corned Beef Brisket

Corned beef is a St. Patty's classic. This brisket comes pre-seasoned with plenty of mustard, coriander, bay leaf, red chili pepper, and dill seed for a unique, yet super familiar flavor profile.

Trader Joe's

Pie Crusts

These readymade pie crusts can be easily transformed for on-theme Shepherd's Pies and desserts alike.

Trader Joe's

Beer Bread Mix

Soda bread is another can't-miss traditional St. Patrick's Day snack, and this bread mix (where all you have to do is add beer and butter) makes enjoying the snack extremely easy. You could even top it with a medley of other ingredients to enhance a certain flavor profile.

Trader Joe's

Breaded Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Any holiday party involving beer (AKA St. Patrick's Day) calls for some fried food. Skip the drive-thru and prep these cheesy sticks right at home for just $5!

Trader Joe's

Beef Rib Eye Steak

If grillin' is on the docket for your St. Patty's Day plans, opt for one of TJ's fancy steak cuts like this nice $15 rib eye to feed a crowd!

Trader Joe's

Soft Pretzel Twists

These soft pretzel twists are just as tasty as the bites you'd get at the stadium – salt and all!

Trader Joe's

Garlic Gondolas

These "very garlicky" bread boats can host a wide array of fillings like stews, soups, and salads. Just cut 'em up for a finger food that's definitely worthy of your St. Patrick's celebration!

Trader Joe's

Dark Chocolate Covered Caramels

When it comes to the sweet stuff, you simply can't go wrong with these dark chocolate-covered caramel bites.

Trader Joe's

Brownie Truffle Baking Mix

This brownie mix includes notes of fudgy chocolate that's sure to cure any sweet tooth. You could totally serve small bites of this using toothpicks for your party – easy!

Trader Joe's

Apple Blossoms

These apple-filled snacks are like mini apple pies: individual pastries filled with sweet, cooked apples and topped with a tasty bit of cinnamon crumble! They bake very quickly in the oven so you don't have to wait long for your St. Patty's dessert.

Trader Joe's

Yellow Mini Sheet Cake

Trader Joe's sheet cakes are perfect for sharing. Luckily, this new flavor is gluten-free, so everyone can get a taste of its moist crumb and decadent chocolate frosting.

Trader Joe's

Chocolate Hazelnut Ground Coffee

Got Irish coffee on the menu? Step it up using this chocolate-hazelnut coffee that'll enhance every single flavor note.

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more epic Trader Joe's finds!

There's arguably nothing worse than dealing with a passive-aggressive boss. Rather than laying their grievances out on the line, they use indirect communication that leaves you feeling confused, frustrated, and unsure of how to respond without escalating the situation.

But whether it's a sarcastic remark, a roundabout criticism, or a backhanded compliment, handling these statements with calculated grace is key. So, here are 10 smart responses you can use on your boss the next time they make passive-aggressive comments.

Scroll to find out what you should say when your boss makes another passive-aggressive comment at work.

1. Clarify & Confirm

Marcus Aurelius

Have you ever been on the receiving end of a wild remark from your boss that practically made you do a double-take? If so, don't be afraid to respectfully ask for clarification, forcing them to expand on their perspective without any ambiguity.

For instance, saying something like, "I just want to make sure I understand you currently. Are you saying that..." and paraphrasing their comment is a powerful tool. Not only will it avoid miscommunication, but it will also make your boss address their issue with you head-on.

2. Ask For Their Feedback

Edmond Dantès

We can only learn and grow in environments that challenge us while supporting us along the way. However, passive-aggressive bosses may resort to beating around the bush, making offhand critiques about your work that are vague yet still hurtful.

You can urge your employer to be more straightforward with you by telling them point-blank, "I value your feedback." Asking for open dialogue as opposed to one-off comments will show that you're receptive to constructive criticism and encourage your boss to be a stronger leader.

3. Politely Challenge

Vlada Karpovich

Whether your boss tries to guilt-trip you by implying you're not doing enough or praises you in a sarcastic manner, you can always politely challenge them, too.

Try saying, "It seems like you're hinting at something. Could you be more direct so I can address it appropriately?" Your boss will be put on the spot and driven to share their true feelings without the white noise.

4. Show Understanding

Edmond Dantès

Passive aggression shouldn't be acceptable in workplaces, but sometimes, showing compassion and understanding can help diffuse these all-too-common situations.

As hard as it may be, giving your boss some grace and acknowledging their apparent frustrations may be enough to get you both on the same page.

For instance, saying something such as, "It sounds like you might be feeling irritated. Let's figure out what we can do to fix it together," can encourage teamwork and put a stop to the indirect blame game.

5. Maintain Professional Distance

Thirdman

When passive-aggressive statements start to feel catty in the office, it's not just hurtful; it also retracts from productivity and can lessen the quality of completed work.

To cleverly call out your boss while shifting attention back to the matter at hand, you can respond with, "I'm not sure I follow the tone of your comment. Let's focus on our work so we can move forward."

6. Stay Calm & Collected

Kaboompics.com

It can be tempting to go on the offensive in passive-aggressive situations. Even so, staying cool as a cucumber will reinforce your professionalism and prevent a full-blown stand-off from occurring.

All you have to say is, "I hear your concerns, and I'll focus on improving that moving forward." It's direct, indicates you understand your boss' grievances, and should keep them from harping on.

7. Redirect To Next Steps

Christina Morillo

One of the biggest issues with passive aggression is that it makes someone's issue with you indirectly apparent. Yet, it can be tough to know exactly how to fix their problem moving forward, given they're beating around the bush.

Let's say your boss makes a snarky remark about a PTO request or acts unsatisfied with a project you completed. Don't hesitate to ask, "So, what next steps should we take to ensure this doesn't happen again?"

8. Make It Clear That You're There To Grow

Antoni Shkraba

You could be early in your career or an industry veteran. Either way, vague passive-aggressive statements about performance can be equally hurtful (not to mention unhelpful).

A smart way to respond is by saying, "I'm here to learn and grow." It makes your intentions crystal clear, reminds your boss that you're only human, and could open up conversations about avenues for improvement.

9. Share How You Value Your Professional Relationship

Christina Morillo

All relationships, from romantic and platonic to professional, rely on mutual respect and communication. Passive aggression is a sign of disrespect, but you can help turn interactions with your boss around by saying, "I value our professional relationship."

It will successfully set a positive tone and convey that you want a healthy working relationship. It may also help your boss realize that they haven't been treating you the way they'd like to be treated.

10. Set Boundaries

MART PRODUCTION

Finally, the most direct approach is to confront your boss' passive-aggressive attitude by setting firm boundaries. This can be uncomfortable, but with the right tact and professionalism, it can be very powerful.

For example, consider using this statement: "I believe in having open and honest communication. Can we make sure we're on the same page moving forward?"

It makes your desire for transparency clear and forces your boss to rise to your expectations.

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Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco have made headlines again, but now Hailey Bieber— and all the alleged drama with her — is back in the picture. We were under the impression she was excited for the couple's engagement, but one fan claims she's back at her shady behavior...and it's making people look at her sideways all over again. Here's what allegedly happened, plus what Hailey had to say about it all!

Scroll to find out if Hailey Bieber actually threw shade at Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco...

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for Vanity Fair

Hailey Bieber can't seem to catch a break in the news. Though we reported she liked Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco's engagement post last year, there was a suggestion she may have other thoughts about them. It's no secret she and Selena allegedly aren't the best of friends, but we never would've suspected she'd do what one person claims she did.

According to TikTok creator @courtneypresto, Hailey liked a video where she admits to being "a little shady to Selena Gomez." She also shared a couple of interesting pictures of her and Benny's Interview Magazine feature with one of them showing Benny smiling while the singer's two feet are on his cheeks.

But Hailey apparently thinks the creator's claim is "fake news" because her rep told Page Six, "This never happened." To make things slightly worse, the rep also threw @courtneypresto under the bus. "This entire story has been fabricated by a content creator looking to capitalize off of an old, tired narrative." You can't see us, but this statement made us choke on our lattes.

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for Vanity Fair

Buzzfeed reports the model also shared a personal statement on Instagram, but it's unclear who she was referring to. The message started off with, "pastors and preachers really love to put words together with the same letter and act like it's HITTING so crazy..." before she signed off with "...sh-- drives me bananas."

As for Selena & Benny? They're in their own paradise and the singer's recent post dedicated to the producer proves it. She shared a sweet Instagram carousel that captured intimate moments of their love to celebrate his birthday. "I’m not sure what I did to deserve you but damn am I glad you were born.. happy birthday baby ♥️."

Maybe Hailey Bieber liked the original shady TikTok by accident? Whatever the case, we hope the girls aren't fighting again!

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Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively just premiered their new movie Another Simple Favor at the 2025 SXSW Festival (you can stream it on Prime Video May 1), and aside from buzz about the movie itself, the internet is going wild for one simple reason. Anna Kendrick got a little sassy when asked what it was like to reunite with Blake for the film, and while the drama surrounding Blake's It Ends With Us legal battle didn't delay the movie, social media users can't stop talking about Anna's reaction.

Here's what Anna Kendrick said about working with Blake Lively on Another Simple Favor.

Anna Kendrick's comments about Blake Lively just went viral.

@entertainmenttonight Anna Kendrick arrives to the premiere of 'Another Simple Favor' at SXSW. #annakendrick#blakelively#anothersimplefavor♬ original sound - Entertainment Tonight

While greeting fans at the movie premiere, Anna was asked what it meant to be working with Blake again, to which Anna doesn't even stop. She just responds, "Oh, you know."

"'Oh you know' are the exact words I say when someone asks me how I am and I am barely hanging on," one TikTok user jokes in the comments, while another speculates, "I think she hates the hate Blake is getting and how the media is out to get click bait from her about it."

@varietymagazine How is the release of "Another Simple Favor" being affected by everything going on in the world? Anna Kendrick: "Why, what happened? I did ayahuasca and the last year of my life is just gone." #SXSW♬ original sound - Variety

The actress was also asked about "everything going on" (undoubtedly alluding to the It Ends With Us drama), to which Anna responded, "Why, what happened? I did ayahuasca and the last year of my life is just gone."

Anna is known for her sense of humor, and TikTok users commented saying this "was a phenomenal answer" and that she's "effortlessly funny."

Anna opened up about reuniting with Blake for the sequel, telling People in October 2024 that getting cast members from the first A Simple Favor back together again was "a little bit like riding a bike."

"She lives on the East Coast, I live on the West Coast, so we don't get to see each other often," she says. "But it was lovely, and I think that those characters have such weird chemistry that it's so fun to just get the gang back together."

And when someone tweeted that Blake Lively was "terrified to walk the carpet" and Anna Kendrick was "pissed and never wants to work with her again," director Paul Feig retweeted with a simple, "Um … you’re wrong." And I'll take his word for it.

Check out why Blake Lively's Another Simple Favor Trailer Is All About “Revenge”