In this episode of Cut the Cake, we dive into a topic that keeps circling back—micro weddings. These intimate celebrations may be small in guest count, but they’re big on impact. Whether you’re planning one, considering scaling back your guest list, or just curious about the trend, we’re unpacking what makes a micro wedding so different from a standard wedding—or an elopement.

We share what we’ve seen on the ground—from logistics to design—and how these beautifully intentional events can still be rich in experience (without the huge price tag). You’ll hear our thoughts on how to navigate costs, guest expectations, and the misconception that smaller means simpler (hint: it doesn’t always).

From the kinds of venues that suit a micro wedding, to how your run sheet might shift, to the creative decisions couples are making with more breathing room in the budget—we cover it all. Plus, we chat through what’s worth investing in, and when having a planner is still totally worth it.

And of course, we share some personal stories that prove micro weddings aren’t just a budget option—they’re a vibe all their own. For couples wanting an intimate, immersive, and incredibly memorable day, this one's for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Micro weddings are not elopements—they typically involve up to 30 guests and still include traditional elements, but with more space for personalisation.
• Scaling back doesn’t mean scaling down on experience—you can create more impact per guest by reworking your budget intentionally.
• Unique venues like private homes, boutique stays, or restaurant takeovers are perfect for micro weddings and often create an unforgettable guest experience.
• Planning still matters—especially if you want the day to feel seamless (and not like a last-minute dinner party).
• Intimacy doesn’t make it less special—in fact, the smaller guest list often makes for deeper connections and a more relaxed vibe.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut the Cake, we’re diving deep into one of the most underrated parts of wedding planning — your timeline. We walk you through the exact framework we use to create seamless, stress-free wedding day schedules. From what time to kick things off in the morning to squeezing in golden hour portraits and setting the tone for the reception, we’re sharing how to time it all without the overwhelm.

We also unpack the must-knows when it comes to vendor coordination — because even the best timelines fall flat if your vendors aren’t on the same page. From confirming bump-in times to ensuring your key suppliers know where to be and when, communication is everything. We’re here to help you make sure your dream day flows like magic.

One of our biggest tips? Add buffer time. Having a bit of breathing room in your schedule is one of the easiest ways to reduce stress, adapt to any hiccups and keep things feeling calm and collected. Whether it’s hair and makeup running over or extra time needed for group photos, this small tweak makes a huge difference.

We also chat about streamlining the formalities. Speeches, cake cutting and first dances can feel a bit clunky if they’re too stacked — so we explore how to space them out or simplify things for a more natural, relaxed celebration.

Whether you’re a DIY couple mapping things out yourselves or working with a coordinator to bring it all together, this episode is your go-to guide for making your wedding day timeline feel effortless and enjoyable.

Follow along on Instagram @cutthecakepodcast and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode full of real talk and planning gold.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut The Cake, we’re diving into one of our favourite topics—wedding venues across Victoria. With winter in full swing, it felt like the perfect time to chat about some truly standout locations and why this season can actually be ideal for planning your dream day.

We share some of the venue gems we’ve worked at or fallen in love with—from the garden-filled grounds of Mount Mitchell Estate near Ballarat to the clear marquee magic of Glen Fine Weddings and Events in Drouin South. For those leaning more city-side, we also spotlight Chapter Place at Pentridge Prison and The Trust in Melbourne—both spaces full of character, history, and serious style.

Winter doesn’t just offer moody lighting and romantic vibes—it’s also a strategic time to get ahead on your planning. With more vendor availability and breathing room in everyone’s calendars, it’s the perfect season to start securing your dream team and making considered choices.

Mel is also offering two helpful resources this season: a discounted one-on-one planning consultation for July and August, and a free venue guide packed with insider tips for couples looking at regional Victoria. If you’re unsure where to start or just want a little support, now’s the time to jump in.

We talk through how each venue offers something unique—whether it’s access to a clear-roof marquee under the stars or spaces that blend modern sophistication with history. More than anything, we share how thoughtful venue selection can completely elevate your guest experience and set the tone for your entire celebration.

If you’re newly engaged or knee-deep in decision making, this episode is packed with location inspo, planning advice, and a reminder that Victoria is home to some of the most beautiful (and sometimes underrated) places to say “I do.”

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut The Cake, we’re answering your questions and diving into all things wedding planning—from vendor timelines to unexpected budget blowouts and how to keep your guests entertained in ways they’ll actually remember.

We kick things off with a conversation around booking timelines. Once you’ve locked in your venue and date, that’s when it’s time to start securing your vendors. We break down what to prioritise, what often gets overlooked, and how to manage expectations—especially when it comes to popular suppliers and high-demand dates.

We also chat about one of the biggest planning pain points: budgets. We unpack where most of the money really goes (hint: it’s probably your venue and catering), how to approach quotes with confidence, and why it’s worth having open conversations with your florist or stylist about what's actually possible within your price range.

Guest experience is something we’re both passionate about, so we share some of our favourite ways to create interactive, memorable moments—from mini-golf during cocktail hour to hiring a live illustrator or using custom signage as keepsakes. It's all about choosing thoughtful details that reflect you.

And because planning can feel overwhelming, we offer a few of our go-to strategies for staying sane—like setting up a dedicated wedding email, tuning out the noise of unhelpful opinions, and keeping your circle of trusted voices small and supportive.

Whether you’re knee-deep in planning or just getting started, this episode is full of honest insights, practical tips, and a gentle reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to doing your day your way.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut the Cake, we dive headfirst into the whirlwind world of wedding expos—from both sides of the booth.

We’ve walked the aisles as attendees and stood behind the tables as vendors, so we know exactly how exciting, overwhelming, and wildly inspiring expos can be. In this conversation, we share what we’ve learned from years of being part of the wedding expo scene—our biggest lessons, the surprising things we weren’t prepared for, and the small details that make all the difference.

We talk about how to walk into an expo with a clear plan and realistic expectations, rather than trying to lock in every vendor on the spot. For couples just starting out, expos can be an incredible way to gather ideas, get a feel for different styles, and actually touch things—like paper stock, signage, and fabrics—before making any decisions. But they’re also a lot to take in. That’s why we recommend creating a vendor hit list, checking out the schedule in advance, and pacing your day (snack breaks included).

We also chat about the importance of region-specific expos. Attending events in the area you’re getting married can help you discover local gems and connect with vendors who truly understand your venue, weather, and vibe. And yes—we’ll never stop talking about the importance of bringing extra blank place cards. Because when your cousin shows up with a surprise plus-one? You’ll be glad you had them.

Throughout the episode, we reflect on the tactile magic of expos—especially for things like stationery—and how they can help bring your vision to life when approached with the right mindset. Whether you're newly engaged or deep in planning mode, we hope this episode leaves you feeling more empowered, inspired, and ready to tackle your next expo with confidence.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut the Cake, we explore the latest trends, helpful tools, and practical tips we’re seeing (and loving) in the wedding planning space right now.

We reflect on one of the most important but often overlooked parts of the planning journey: the engagement period. Taking time to soak in that just-engaged bubble before announcing it to the world can give couples space to enjoy the moment without outside pressure. It's okay to wait. You don’t have to start planning the second that ring hits your finger.

Throughout the episode, we share real advice for making the day more meaningful—like creating code words or signals that allow you and your partner to pause and connect privately amidst the celebration. We talk through the budgeting process too, encouraging couples to spend where it matters most to them, not just where tradition or Instagram says you should.

This conversation is all about finding clarity in the chaos. Whether it’s setting up a separate wedding email to keep everything organised or making sure you’ve worn in your wedding shoes (seriously—don’t skip this!), we’re all about helping you make intentional choices that reflect you. Because your wedding should be a celebration of your story—not a performance for everyone else.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut The Cake, we unpack an unusual trend making waves across Victoria’s wedding industry—a noticeable lull in bookings for late 2025. After observing this shift firsthand, we explore the potential causes, from post-COVID engagement timelines to the ongoing effects of the economic climate, including rising costs and interest rates.

While the quieter calendar may seem puzzling, it presents a golden opportunity for couples who are ready to plan their weddings on a shorter timeline. With many premium vendors still available for late 2025, this episode is packed with encouragement for couples to lean into the flexibility and possibility of spontaneous, well-curated celebrations.

We also take a forward glance into 2026 and the emerging trends shaping modern weddings. From the rise of editorial styling and interactive elements to the increasing popularity of faux florals and creative signage, we share insight into the evolving details that are defining this next era of events. Think: luxe fabric signage, custom linens, and personal touches that leave a lasting impression.

Whether you're a couple starting to plan or a vendor curious about industry shifts, this episode offers grounded insight into what’s happening now—and what’s coming next.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut The Cake, we return after a whirlwind wedding season to share behind-the-scenes stories, reflections, and new developments from our businesses—Mellyrain Creative and Event Wanderer Co.

After a short pause in episodes during peak wedding season, we’re back with fresh updates and an all-new structure designed to deliver even more honest insights and practical advice for couples planning their weddings.

We dive into our personal highlights from the season. Mellyrain Creative was recently featured in Vogue for a styled and coordinated wedding—an exciting moment that sparked a deeper look at the realities and politics of being featured in high-profile publications. Event Wanderer Co also had a dynamic season, focusing on bespoke themed stationery projects and professional print services tailored to both full-service clients and DIY couples looking for elevated, polished results.

Throughout the episode, we explore wedding trends such as the growing popularity of guest personalization, the shift toward niche vendor offerings, and the increased demand for transparency and authenticity in the industry. We’ve also refined our services to reflect our strengths: full-service wedding planning and styling, and thoughtfully curated design-to-print stationery solutions.

We also offer a reminder to couples to dig deeper when evaluating potential vendors, features, and awards—encouraging thoughtful, values-aligned decisions when building their dream day.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/