Building your wedding registry in 2026? In this episode, Mel and Malea share their top wedding registry must-haves for 2026 — the items couples actually use, love, and don’t regret registering for. From everyday essentials to modern upgrades, this episode will help newly engaged couples create a registry that truly fits their life after the wedding.

Registry Items: Crockpot, Ice Maker, Barware Set, Cookie Sheet, Faux Fur Blanket, Step Ladder, Duvet Cover, Online Plant Shop, Newly Named Boxes, Airfly Adapter, Portable Charger, Poker Set, Game Monikers

Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com.

If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!

Check out additional resources here!

Bridal shows can feel exciting… or totally overwhelming if you’ve never been to one. In this episode, we’re joined by Emily, a wedding expert who works bridal shows firsthand, to break down what wedding expos are really like and whether they’re worth your time.

We cover what to expect, how to prepare, which vendors to prioritize, and insider tips to help you walk in confident and leave with valuable connections — not just a bag of flyers. If you’re newly engaged or wondering if a bridal show belongs on your wedding planning checklist, this episode is for you!

Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com.

If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!

Check out additional resources here!

Wedding planning officially starts here. 💍
Before you book a venue, scroll Pinterest, or fall in love with a dress, there’s one crucial step every couple should take first: setting a wedding budget.

In the first episode of 2026, Mel & Malea break down how to set a realistic, flexible wedding budget that works for your priorities. With 30+ years of combined industry experience, they walk you through where to start, how to talk about money as a couple and with family, and how your budget should guide every decision that follows.

Thank you for tuning into ‘White Dress Optional’, a wedding podcast by Brilliant Bridal! Join us every Wednesday for candid conversations, expert insights, and heartwarming stories that celebrate love in all its forms. Connect with us on Instagram at @whitedressoptional or email us at podcast@brilliantbridal.com.

If you are in one of our markets and searching for your dream dress, we'd be thrilled to accompany you on your bridal journey. Visit https://www.brilliantbridal.com/appointments & schedule an appointment to shop at one of our boutiques today!

Check out additional resources here!