The Planner’s Passport - Wedding Planners, Travel Agents, Decades of Stories

BTS with Brit of Happy Joy Candy Co.

This week we’re joined by Brit Grosenick, founder of Happy Joy Candy Co., a Milwaukee-based company bringing the fun with home-spun cotton candy, drink glitter bombs, and more sweet surprises. 
We’re diving into the real side of being a wedding entrepreneur, the highs and lows of running a business, and why couples are loving these playful treats at their weddings. If you’re a bride, groom, or wedding planner looking to add a little extra fun to your big day, this episode is packed with ideas, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes magic.
 
Reach out to Brit Here! Happy Joy Candy Co. 

BTS: Jen in Hawaii, The Big Island

This week on The Planner’s Passport, Jen takes us to the stunning Big Island of Hawaii! She explores Kona and Hilo, drives around the island, and visits incredible spots like the Krishna Cow Sanctuary in Papaikou, the Green Sand Beach at Papakōlea, and the Black Sand Beach at Punalu‘u.
 
Jen also indulges in a private dinner with Chef Ippy, owner of Nāpua at Mauna Lani, and shares tips for creating your own Hawaiian escape. Don’t miss this episode packed with breathtaking sights, local flavors, and travel inspiration!
 
Locations Highlighted:
Krishna Cow Sanctuary
Green Sand Beach at Papakōlea
Black Sand Beach at Punalu`u
Chef Ippy of Nāpua Restaurant
 
 
 

BTS with Dan of Brazen Standard Hospitality

This week, we’re chatting with Dan Nowak, the owner and “Tall Guy” behind Brazen Standard, the parent company of Tall Guy and a Grill, The Crafted Tavern, and The Dessert Cart, all based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Dan shares how he turned his passion for food and events into a mega brand that is now a staple in the wedding and event industry. From crafting unique wedding catering experiences to creating unforgettable menus for corporate events, Dan reveals the secrets behind his growth and how he continues to raise the bar in hospitality.And, because we know you love it, he also dishes his biggest wedding pet peeves (yes, we know what you're here for).Whether you’re a planner, a vendor, or just love hearing behind-the-scenes stories from the event world, you won’t want to miss this episode! Tune in now for a mix of inspiration, laughs, and a custom drink recipe!

BTS: In-House Catering v. Outside Catering Pros and Cons

This week, Jen and Megan are diving into all things catering—a topic every wedding planner and engaged couple needs to know about. And yes, they’re spilling a few new pet peeves along the way (you’re welcome!). 
 
They’ll break down the pros and cons of in-house catering versus bringing in your own caterer, sharing behind-the-scenes insights on how to navigate this key decision. Plus, they’re dishing on some of the coolest, most creative catering setups they’ve pulled off with their partnered caterers—because who doesn’t love a good grazing table or a fresh oyster station? Of course, in true fashion, they’ll also veer off into some hilarious side tangents because they just can't help themselves.

BTS: Wedding Day Transportation

This week, Megan and Jen are driving (see what we did there?) into one of the most critical (and often overlooked) aspects of wedding planning—transportation! We’re sharing all the dos and don’ts of booking and coordinating transportation for your wedding day. Whether it’s getting the wedding party to the venue on time, managing shuttles for guests, or navigating last-minute logistics, we’ve got you covered.
Packed with practical tips and real-life examples, this episode is a must-listen for couples, wedding planners, and anyone looking to ensure a smooth, stress-free day. Because let’s face it—transportation can make or break your timeline! 

BTS: When the Wedding Gets a Little Too Wild

Planning a wedding is like walking a tightrope—balancing the perfect day while hoping no one goes off the rails. Let’s face it: wild wedding guests are inevitable. In this episode of The Planner’s Passport, we’re spilling WTF moments—bridesmaids eating it on stairs, rogue underwear sightings, and a DJ stuck on "Panda" by Desiigner. Oh, and injuries? Plenty.
We’ll also share how wedding planners attempt to keep things under control, from handling open-bar sprinters to disaster-proofing the day. Whether you’re wedding planning or just here for the train wrecks, this episode delivers the juiciest antics, hard-earned tips, and pure chaos.
Tune in for the laughs, the cringes, and the WTF moments that’ll make you wonder how weddings even happen. (Spoiler: planners deserve awards and therapy.)

BTS: Holiday Weddings Pros and Cons

It’s that week between Christmas and New Year’s—when no one knows what day it is, wine is flowing, and schedules are out the window. We might be a little all over the place, but we’re still diving into the pros and cons of planning a holiday wedding!
If you’re recently engaged or in the early stages of wedding planning, this episode is full of helpful insights to guide you in choosing the perfect date for your big day. From planning for additional labor charges to the secret holiday you should choose if you don’t want anyone to come to your wedding, we’re covering… well, most of it (do we get a little off topic? Absolutely—but that’s part of our charm).
Whether you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland wedding or curious about the logistics of a July 4th celebration, tune in to hear our tips, thoughts, and a few laughs as we break it all down (and Jen drinks too much Viking's blood...yes, you read that right).

BTS: Jen Takes on McDonalds and Prague

In this episode of The Planner’s Passport, Jen takes us on a rollercoaster trip through Munich and Prague, where she wandered through magical Christmas markets like a festive queen, drank her weight in Glühwein (a true talent), attended a European hockey game—because culture comes in all forms—and went on so many educational tours she could practically give one herself. 
Of course, no trip is complete without a little chaos: she cried in the streets of Munich, found a lover in Prague (yes, you read that right), and hit up McDonald’s not once, but twice—because sometimes, comfort food just calls your name.
If you’re into solo travel, chaotic adventures, or just want to hear what happens when you mix romance, history, and that much mulled wine, this episode is for you. Pack your bags—or at least your headphones—and come along for the ride!

BTS: With Rachael Steacy Events

BTS: Rachael Steacy Events
In this episode of The Planner's Passport, we’re joined by our very first guest, Rachael Steacy, the powerhouse behind Rachael Steacy Events. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a great wedding planner worth their weight in gold, this conversation is for you.
We go behind the scenes of wedding planning, sharing stories about turning bold and creative visions into reality. From jaw-dropping successes to the “never-do-that-again” moments, we reveal the highs and lows of crafting one-of-a-kind celebrations. Along the way, we dish out invaluable tips on avoiding common wedding pitfalls and keeping the magic alive under pressure.
Whether you’re a bride, groom, wedding planner, or just someone fascinated by the wedding world, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and inspiration. Be sure to stick around until the end—you won’t want to miss the fun!
Don't forget to subscribe and email us at theplannerspassport@gmail.com to share your own stories that could be featured on a coming episode!
 

BTS: Megan Takes on Beaches Turks & Caicos

Grab a Caribbean cocktail and come along with Megan as she relives her latest adventure in travel to Beaches Turks and Caicos! The whole family tags along on this adventure down to this salty island where she explores Beaches largest all-inclusive resort on the heart of Grace Bay Beach. We'll meet some turtles, hunt for Drake and drink more pina coladas than one woman should ever consume in six days on the beach. Join us to hear more about this beautiful island nation and it may inspire you to put your own toes in the sand here in the near future.