Now You May Kiss Podcast with Chanelle Carlin, your Celebrant for Life

"Don't just rent the venue. Feel yourself in the space. This is the place where your marriage begins." — Patti Falconer, Parties on the Terrace There are countless beautiful wedding venues throughout the Pacific Northwest, but beauty alone doesn't make a place unforgettable. In this episode of Now You May Kiss™ , I sat down with Patti Falconer, co-owner of Parties on the Terrace, to explore what truly makes a wedding venue special and why choosing your venue isn't simply about where you'll celebrate, but where you'll begin your marriage. As I listened to Patti share her heart for hospitality, one thought kept returning to me: the best wedding professionals don't simply provide services; they create spaces where marriages begin. That's a philosophy I deeply believe in as Your Celebrant for Life™ , and it's why I couldn't wait to share this conversation with you. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.

What does it really take to build a marriage that lasts? In this heartfelt episode of the Now You May Kiss™ Podcast, Chanelle Carlin sits down with relationship mentor, Quora Elder Advisor, author, and grandmother Belle Gayer on her 54th wedding anniversary to explore the lessons she's learned from more than five decades of marriage. Together they discuss: • Why romantic love naturally changes and why that's actually good news; • The difference between falling in love and building enduring love; • Navigating financial hardship, grief, and life's unexpected challenges; • Why self-worth is essential to healthy relationships; • Daily habits that keep couples emotionally connected; • The power of communication, empathy, and intentionality; and • What every engaged couple should focus on before their wedding day. Whether you're recently engaged, newly married, or celebrating decades together, this conversation offers timeless wisdom and practical encouragement for creating a marriage that grows stronger with every season. Mentioned in this episode: • Are Relationships for Suckers by Belle Gayer • FREE Download: 5 Questions Every Couple Should Ask Before They Say "I Do" Remember... Your wedding is a moment. Your marriage is a lifetime.

After the vows are spoken and the celebration ends, many couples find themselves in a space no one really talks about. A quiet comedown. A sense of “now what?” Even unexpected sadness. In this solo episode of Now You May Kiss™, Chanelle Carlin—wedding officiant and Celebrant for Life™—opens an honest, compassionate conversation about the post-wedding blues . Why do so many newlyweds feel a sense of loss after such a joyful day? What emotional shifts are actually happening beneath the surface? And how can couples move through this transition with intention and connection? This episode is a gentle reminder that nothing has gone wrong— you are simply stepping into something deeper. Because while the wedding is a moment…the marriage is the meaning.

A short and heartfelt check-in from Chanelle. After a quieter month, she shares a personal update—navigating a family health scare, settling into a new home, and honoring the need for rest in an unexpected season. She also shares some exciting news: Now You May Kiss has been nominated for a Women Podcasters Award in the Society & Culture category. If this podcast has ever resonated with you, your vote would mean so much. Voting is open April 1–30. https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards-nominees?page=5 Regular episodes return next week—with more meaningful conversations, beautiful love stories, and intentional guidance for your marriage journey.

What happens when love, marriage, and entrepreneurship all intersect? In this episode of the Now You May Kiss Podcast , Chanelle sits down with transformational relationship expert Annie Yatch, who helps entrepreneurial couples strengthen both their partnership and their business. Annie’s work focuses on helping high-performing couples dismantle subconscious patterns of control, competition, and unresolved trauma so they can lead—and love—with deeper connection and unity. Together, Chanelle and Annie explore how couples can shift from conflict to connection, navigate feedback without defensiveness, and transform their relationship into their greatest leadership asset. You’ll hear practical tools for improving communication, resolving conflict with compassion, and creating a shared vision for the life and business you’re building together. If you’re an entrepreneurial couple—or simply committed to building a strong, intentional marriage—this conversation will give you powerful insights to strengthen your relationship. In this episode you’ll learn: Why many relationship conflicts are driven by subconscious “stories” How couples can identify and shift the narratives that create disconnection The importance of defining your relationship’s desired emotional state Practical techniques for navigating conflict with compassion A powerful framework for giving and receiving feedback without triggering defensiveness Why the goal in conflict should always be to “race back to connection” Because a thriving marriage isn’t accidental—it’s intentional.

Destination Weddings Done Right with Carolyn Kulb of Windward Path Did you know that 1 in 4 couples is now choosing a destination wedding? In this episode of the Now You May Kiss (TM) Podcast, Chanelle Carlin welcomes back luxury travel advisor Carolyn Kulb , owner of Windward Path, to talk all things destination weddings. From European villas to mountaintop elopements in the Pacific Northwest, Carolyn shares who destination weddings are perfect for — and who should think twice. They discuss legal vs. symbolic ceremonies, managing guest logistics, travel insurance, budgeting realities, weather considerations, and how to build the right team so you’re not overwhelmed. If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” somewhere extraordinary — or wondering whether a destination wedding is truly right for you — this episode will help you plan wisely and beautifully.

What if your wedding day didn’t require choosing between celebration and caregiving? In this heartfelt episode of Now You May Kiss , host Chanelle Carlin sits down with Chelcy Flores , founder of Devote Home Care and Devote Event Care , to explore how couples can include beloved grandparents and family members with special needs—without added stress. Chelcy shares the deeply personal story behind Devote Event Care and how her background in nutrition, orthopedics, and home care led her to identify a major gap in the wedding industry. Together, Chanelle and Chelcy discuss how intentional planning, compassionate support, and gentle presence allow couples to stay fully present while ensuring their loved ones are safe, comfortable, and included. From intimate mountain ceremonies to destination weddings, this conversation is a powerful reminder that weddings are not just about two people—but about generations, legacy, and love. If having your grandparents and loved ones there truly matters to you, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible.

Guest: Vic (Victoria) Thomas – New Zealand Celebrant & Founder of My Celebrant In this heartfelt and globally-minded episode of *Now You May Kiss™, Wedding Officiant and Celebrant for Life™ Chanelle Carlin sits down with Vic (Victoria) Thomas, a New Zealand-based marriage celebrant and the founder of My Celebrant—the world’s first celebrant-specific business management platform. Together, Chanelle and Vic explore what it truly means to be a celebrant: not just someone who officiates weddings, but a professional who holds space for life’s most meaningful milestones. From deeply personal ceremony creation and micro-weddings, to building sustainable, heart-led businesses that support family life, this conversation beautifully blends love stories with leadership. Vic shares how becoming a celebrant — and later a mother of three — inspired her to rethink systems, boundaries, and client experience, ultimately leading to the creation of the mycelebrant app, now live in New Zealand, Australia, the UK, and Ireland. The episode also reflects on the sacred impact of marriage itself, the shifts that occur after “I do,” and the privilege celebrants hold as witnesses to love, legacy, and lifelong commitment. Whether you’re a couple planning a meaningful wedding, a celebrant seeking alignment and sustainability, or someone who believes in the power of intentional ceremony, this episode will leave you inspired, grounded, and full of hope.

Now You May Kiss™ Podcast | Featuring Carter Eve of Carter Eve Jewelry What makes an engagement ring truly meaningful? In this episode of the Now You May Kiss™ podcast, Chanelle Carlin sits down with Carter, founder and designer of Carter Eve Jewelry , for a heartfelt conversation about intention, craftsmanship, sustainability, and honoring love stories through thoughtful design. Carter shares her journey from a childhood fascination with gemstones to becoming a formally trained fine jewelry designer with degrees from SCAD and RISD, and an apprenticeship under a master goldsmith. Together, Chanelle and Carter explore why engagement rings and heirloom jewelry should never be one-size-fits-all — just like weddings and marriages themselves. From reimagining family heirloom pieces into modern, wearable designs, to practical advice on caring for fine jewelry, appraisals, and insurance, this episode is filled with wisdom for couples who want their rings to reflect who they truly are — not outdated rules or trends. If you’re newly engaged, planning to propose, or dreaming of a ring that reflects your lifestyle, values, and story, this episode is a must-listen. About our guest: Carter Eve is a Los Angeles–based fine jewelry designer known for creating modern heirlooms with timeless intention. Classically trained as a goldsmith, she specializes in custom engagement rings, wedding bands, and heirloom transformations—reimagining meaningful pieces for a new chapter. Each design is rooted in thoughtful craftsmanship, refined materials, and the belief that jewelry should be both deeply personal and made to last a lifetime.

Veils are more than an accessory — they’re a moment, a memory, and often the finishing touch that transforms a beautiful dress into a wedding look. In this episode of the Now You May Kiss™ Podcast , host Chanelle Carlin sits down with Bethany Spence , owner and lead designer of August Veils in Portland, Oregon. Bethany shares her serendipitous journey into the bridal industry, how she came to lead one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beloved veil studios, and why veils continue to hold timeless significance for modern brides. Together, Chanelle and Bethany explore: The evolving traditions of wedding veils How veils can elevate, balance, and personalize a bridal look Modern veil trends, from lace and blushers to vintage-inspired styles Practical advice for outdoor weddings, wind, and veil security The beauty of heirloom veil restoration and multi-generational wedding pieces When (and how) to choose the right veil — even if you think you’re “not a veil bride” Whether you’re newly engaged, planning an outdoor wedding, or drawn to meaningful heirloom details, this episode offers thoughtful insight and expert guidance from a true artisan of bridal design. 🎧 Tune in and discover how the right veil can complete your wedding-day story.

Gratitude, Growth & Joy in Ceremony: A 2025 Reflection with Christopher Shelley In this special year-end episode of Now You May Kiss™ , Chanelle Carlin is joined once again by her dear friend and fellow officiant, Christopher Shelley of Illuminating Ceremonies —marking his fourth appearance on the podcast . Together, Chanelle and Chris reflect on the journey of 2025 , sharing meaningful wedding stories, lessons learned, and the gratitude that anchors both their personal lives and professional callings. From the joy of loving spouses to the honor of walking alongside couples on one of the most important days of their lives, this conversation is a heartfelt reminder of why ceremony matters. They also offer thoughtful guidance for: Wedding professionals , encouraging continued learning, courage, and the willingness to simply do the thing . Couples planning their 2026 weddings , with empowering reminders to trust their instincts, design a wedding that reflects who they truly are, and hire experienced professionals they can trust—especially a wedding planner who allows them to fully enjoy their day without stress. At its core, this episode celebrates the role officiants play in fostering joy, presence, and connection in the room—because that’s what we do. A meaningful, gratitude-filled close to the year, and an inspiring invitation into the weddings yet to come. Thank you for an incredible year! - Chanelle

What if celebration wasn’t about perfection—but about presence, play, and connection? In this joy-filled episode of the Now You May Kiss™ Podcast , host Chanelle Carlin sits down with Cindy Shaw, founder of Color Collective by Cindy Shaw , to explore how creativity brings people together in deeply meaningful ways. After decades in the corporate world, Cindy traded spreadsheets for paintbrushes and built a business rooted in three simple yet powerful values: create, connect, and flourish . Together, Chanelle and Cindy talk about the healing power of creativity, why art is for everyone (even those who “can’t draw”), and how painting parties are becoming a heartfelt alternative for bridal showers, bachelorette gatherings, and multi-generational celebrations. They also discuss the importance of human connection in a post-2020 world—and why carving out time for creative play is essential for our mental, emotional, and relational well-being. Whether you’re planning a wedding celebration, craving more connection with the people you love, or simply looking for permission to feel like a kid again, this episode will inspire you to slow down, pick up a paintbrush, and rediscover the joy of creating—together. No experience required. Just a willingness to show up and have fun.

Are you dreaming of a wedding day that feels deeply meaningful and aligned with your values? In this episode, I’m joined by Kiira Portet, owner of Evergreen Event Company—a Seattle-based wedding and elopement planner who specializes in intentional, eco-conscious celebrations. Together, we explore how couples can create smaller, more intimate weddings that are rich in love, connection, and presence… all while reducing waste and honoring the environment. Kiira shares practical ways to incorporate sustainability, why “small” doesn’t mean “simple” (or low-budget!), and how focusing on your why can guide every choice you make. We also discuss the role a planner plays in elopements and micro-weddings, the movement toward sustainability in the wedding industry, and Kiira’s leadership with Emerald Hour, a Seattle-based collective advancing eco-friendly practices among wedding professionals. If you’re looking to plan an intimate celebration that reflects your values, your love story, and your vision for your marriage, this episode is for you.

Are you looking for a wedding venue that feels like a full-weekend celebration? In this episode of the Now You May Kiss™ Podcast, Chanelle sits down with Kyra Skaggs, General Manager of the Blue Elk Inn in Leavenworth, WA, to explore why this independently owned boutique hotel is quickly becoming a beloved destination for intimate weddings and family-centered gatherings. With 31 rooms, a beautifully landscaped backyard wedding space, onsite amenities including breakfast, a pool, hot tub, saunas, and cruiser bikes, plus its convenient location (less than a mile from downtown Leavenworth), the Blue Elk Inn offers couples the perfect blend of rustic elegance, modern comfort, and mountain-town charm . We talk about:*Creating a meaningful wedding weekend experience *Working with Ashley Coffin and her team at The Local Event Co for planning and rentals*Full-property buyouts and keeping loved ones together onsite*Seasonal wedding options—yes, even magical winter weddings in the snow*Why Leavenworth is the perfect destination for guests If you're dreaming of a cozy mountain ceremony, a relaxed outdoor celebration, or simply a venue where everyone you love can stay together in one beautiful place, this episode will give you a true feel for the magic of Blue Elk Inn weddings. Learn more at: www.blueelkleavenworth.com and www.thelocaleventco.com

What does love really mean — and how do we prepare ourselves for the kind of relationship that lasts? In this heart-opening episode of the Now You May Kiss™ Podcast , Chanelle sits down with Elizabeth Rave , dating and relationship coach for highly sensitive women and host of the Seeking True Love Now podcast. Together, they explore: What love actually is beyond fairy tales and cultural scripts How Elizabeth learned to understand her deepest emotional needs Why falling in love is one of the most vulnerable — and courageous — choices we ever make How to create clarity, confidence, and alignment before committing to a lifelong partnership Elizabeth shares powerful insights from her own journey of emotional healing, self-awareness, and redefining what devotion looks like — wisdom she now uses to help others call in the healthy, committed relationship they deserve. Whether you're dating, newly engaged, or decades into marriage, this episode invites you to reflect, grow, and love with intention. Learn more about Elizabeth’s work at ElizabethRave.com https://podfollow.com/seeking-true-love

When love finds you again after divorce, how do you help your children feel safe, seen, and supported through this new chapter? In this heartfelt episode, Chanelle Carlin sits down with Rosalind Sedacca, CLC — Certified Life Coach, Divorce & Parenting Coach, and founder of the Child-Centered Divorce Network — to talk about how parents can lovingly guide their children when they plan to remarry. Rosalind shares compassionate insights on: creating open conversations about remarriage; helping children navigate jealousy, loyalty conflicts, and change; introducing a new partner with patience and respect; and role-modeling healthy love and emotional honesty. Whether you’re a parent entering a new marriage or a professional supporting blended families, this episode offers warmth, wisdom, and hope for everyone walking the path of love after loss. Learn more about Rosalind’s work at childcentereddivorce.com .

There’s something magical about saying I do while snowflakes fall and twinkle lights glow all around you. In this cozy, story-filled episode, host Chanelle Carlin, Professional Wedding Officiant and Your Celebrant for Life™ , invites you to imagine the wonder of a Christmas elopement in the Bavarian village of Leavenworth, Washington. From couples who’ve exchanged vows under the town Christmas tree, in candlelit cabins, and beside frozen lakes, to practical tips for planning your own snowy celebration, this episode blends romance and reality — with heartwarming stories, laughter, and a sprinkle of holiday sparkle. Featuring: Real Christmas love stories from couples like Daryl & Katelyn, Janelle & Tom, John & Katherine, Lacey & Matt, and Dylan & Teish Practical winter elopement planning tips A spotlight on the Leavenworth Wedding Show (October 25, 2025) Resources and inspiration at Leavenworth.org Whether you’re newly engaged, planning a winter wedding, or simply love a good love story, this episode will warm your heart — one snowflake at a time.

Your honeymoon isn’t just your first trip as a married couple — it’s your first opportunity to practice being a team in real life. But between wedding planning, endless destination ideas, and the pressure to “get it right,” planning the perfect honeymoon can feel overwhelming — even for high-achieving couples. In this episode, Chanelle Carlin , your Celebrant for Life™ and host of the Now You May Kiss™ Podcast , sits down with Carolyn Kulb , Luxury Travel Advisor and Owner of Windward Path , to talk about why honeymoon planning can be uniquely challenging — and how to make it effortless, luxurious, and deeply personal. Together, they explore: The emotional weight of planning your first trip as a married couple Navigating “honeymoon style mismatches” (adventure vs. relaxation, planned vs. spontaneous) Why delayed honeymoons are secretly the most luxurious option The insider perks and VIP touches only a true expert can access If you’re dreaming of a honeymoon that’s more than just beautiful — one that’s meaningful, seamless, and completely you — this conversation will inspire your next chapter together. 🎙️ Hosted by Chanelle Carlin , Wedding Officiant and Your Celebrant for Life™ ✨ Guest: Carolyn Kulb , Luxury Travel Advisor & Owner, Windward Path 📍 Learn more: https://chanellecarlin.com/podcast

In this special episode, I’m sharing the brand-new Now You May Kiss™ Podcast theme song — written just for the show by my husband, Bill Black. It’s fun, upbeat, and guaranteed to have you smiling (and maybe even dancing) as we celebrate everything this podcast is about: love, marriage, and all the kiss-worthy moments along the way. Turn it up, sing along, and let the music carry you into the world of Now You May Kiss™

Your wedding ring is more than sparkle—it’s a legacy. In this episode of the Now You May Kiss™ Podcast , Chanelle Carlin sits down with Erika Czerniejewski , owner of Columbia River Jewelers in Scappoose, Oregon. Erika is a master jeweler and “storyteller in metal and stone,” with decades of experience creating custom designs that honor love stories across generations. Together, they explore the cultural history of wedding jewelry, the artistry of custom design, and how today’s couples are choosing everything from heirloom estate pieces to colorful gemstones in place of traditional diamonds. If you’re dreaming of a deeply personal, meaningful, and unforgettable wedding ceremony, you’ll love this inspiring conversation. Listen now and learn how to choose jewelry as unique as your love story.