Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-BRIDESMAID. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out.

You know their favorite pizza topping and how they take their coffee—but do you know how they handle money, stress, or the big life questions? In this episode, Jen sits down with dating expert Carleigh Ferrante, host of the Mostly Dating podcast, to unpack why so many couples avoid deep conversations and what you really need to talk about before you say “I do.”

Episode Highlights: • The tough questions every couple should ask before walking down the aisle • How to handle the fear of having “uncomfortable” conversations • Why “we never fight” might be a relationship red flag • Tips for tackling topics like kids, money, and lifestyle differences • Expert dating advice to find the right person for you

If you’re engaged, dating, or wondering whether you really know the person next to you, this episode is your reality check for building a lasting, authentic connection.

This episode is brought to you by Fred Meyer Jewelers. Because the right ring means everything. With over 50 years of experience, Fred Meyer Jewelers brings trusted expertise to your bridal jewelry journey. Visit fredmeyerjewelers.com to find your perfect match today.

Tune in now and learn how to talk about the hard stuff—before it’s too late. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Ring, ring! It's 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out.

In this episode, Jen is joined by Dr. Gary McClain, therapist, patient advocate, and author of "The Power of Closure," to tackle one of the most common yet rarely discussed wedding dilemmas: what happens when ghosts from your past start haunting your future happiness. Together, they explore the complex emotions that surface during wedding planning when unresolved relationships resurface.

Episode Highlights:

- Why it's completely normal to think about exes during wedding planning

- The difference between healthy curiosity and concerning behavior on social media

- How to know if you've truly grieved a past relationship before entering marriage

- Dr. McClain's surprising take on soulmates and "forever" relationships

- Why closure sometimes means accepting you'll never get closure

- The caller's dilemma: scrolling through her ex's Instagram nightly while planning her wedding to someone else

- Practical steps for getting closure when you can't get it from the other person

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

This episode is brought to you by Friar Tux. For over 50 years, they’ve been styling customers for life’s most important moments —from weddings to proms and more. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, Friar Tux has the perfect suit or tuxedo for your event.

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Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out.

In this episode, Jen is joined by Kara Francis, a former divorce attorney turned life coach, who helps women navigate relationship transitions with clarity and confidence. Together, they dive into the emotional rollercoaster of wedding planning—especially when your gut is telling you something feels off. From pre-wedding panic attacks to calling off a wedding 60 days before the big day, Kara shares her personal story and what she’s learned about trusting yourself—even when it’s terrifying.

Episode Highlights:

• The surprising way Kara realized her engagement wasn’t right

• How to separate cold feet from a deeper truth

• Why bridesmaids often become emotional support systems

• The hardest part about walking away from a wedding

• What Kara tells clients who are questioning their relationships

If you’ve ever felt torn between doing what’s expected and doing what’s best for you, this conversation will hit home.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-Bridesmaid. Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out.

What happens when wedding pressure collides with real relationship doubt? This week, Jen is joined by Ilana Dunn—TikTok star known for her brutally honest takes on love and weddings—for a no-filter conversation on everything from dating disasters to marriage fears. Together, they dish out smart, funny, and refreshingly candid advice for anyone navigating modern relationships.

Episode Highlights: • Feeling stuck with the wrong person? Here's what to do • Why finding love later in life can be even better • First date conversation do’s and don’ts • Keeping secrets—and when it crosses a line • Wedding planning: why Ilana hated it and how to survive it.

If you’re stuck in a situationship, second-guessing your marriage, or just need a dating reality check, this one's for you.

This episode is brought to you by Honeyfund—the perfect way for couples to receive cash gifts for their wedding, honeymoon, or any savings goal. Whether it’s an unforgettable trip or a big life milestone, Honeyfund makes it easy for guests to give the gift of experience.

Head over to https://www.honeyfund.com/ and start your fee-free registry today!

Ring, ring! It’s 1-800-BRIDESMAID.

Author and pro bridesmaid Jen Glantz brings her hit newsletter to life in this judgment-free zone for all your burning real wedding, love, and friendship drama questions—plus expert advice to help sort it all out.

Behind the Instagram-worthy wedding moments is a reality few talk about—friendships falling apart under the pressure of bridesmaid duties.

In this episode, Jen sits down with therapist Claudia Giolitti to unpack the emotional toll of weddings, power imbalances, and what happens when the person getting married starts to feel like a stranger.

Episode Highlights: • Why weddings can trigger deep emotional wounds and reveal toxic dynamics • How to know when a friendship is no longer serving you • Signs of anxiety in relationships and when it's time to reevaluate • Expert insights on navigating people-pleasing, boundaries, and breakups

Real talk on friendship grief and what to do when you’re not okay Whether you're questioning your own role in a bridal party or rethinking your friendships altogether, this episode is full of raw honesty, validation, and therapeutic-level advice to help you protect your peace.

This episode is brought to you by Lovebird — the most elegant way for engaged couples to communicate with their wedding guests.

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Learn more at https://www.lovebird.com

Tune in now and learn how to show up for others without abandoning yourself. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on future episodes!

Welcome to 1-800-Bridesmaid, a podcast where real-life drama meets unfiltered advice. I'm Jen Glantz, founder of Bridesmaid for Hire and author of Finally the Bride. Each episode features a new caller sharing their honest, raw dilemma on friendship, love, weddings, and beyond. An expert and I offer guidance, and you're invited to weigh in with your own take. Will they take our advice? We'll find out together.

Have a wedding dilemma or relationship question? Submit your story here https://bridesmaidforhire.com– you might be featured on our next episode!

And remember, sometimes the best advice comes from strangers we meet along the way.