Tommy Winkler and Jessica Pappas
Some love stories begin with fireworks. Tommy Winkler and Jess Pappas' began with quarantine walks. (Yes, really.) In this episode of Weddings-ish with Jove, I sit down with the newlyweds behind one of my favorite weddings I've ever had the joy of celebrating. We rewind to their college love story, from meeting through athletics to becoming best friends during COVID quarantine, before diving into their unforgettable European-inspired castle wedding. If you're searching for wedding inspiration, real wedding stories, or behind-the-scenes conversations about planning an intentional celebration, this episode is filled with heartfelt moments, practical insights, and plenty of joy.
Tommy and Jess created a wedding that was completely their own—from four incredible cakes (including a private tiramisu cake cutting inspired by late-night dates in Italy) to signature cocktails named after their four beloved cats, vintage-inspired photography, thoughtful DIY details, and a guest list made up only of the people who had truly been part of their journey. We also talk about the wedding planning decisions so many couples wrestle with: whether to do a first look, writing personal vows, balancing family expectations, and choosing traditions that actually reflect your relationship. Even when a dress zipper threatened to derail the timeline moments before the ceremony, the love, emotion, and intention behind the day never wavered.
What stayed with me most after our conversation wasn't just the incredible food (yes, Tommy absolutely felt the pressure of feeding everyone as "The Food Guy"), the breathtaking castle venue, or the beautiful design—it was the way every choice reflected who Tommy and Jess truly are. Their wedding reminds us that the most meaningful celebrations aren't about following someone else's rules; they're about telling your story in a way that feels authentic. Whether you've followed Tommy and Jess online for years or you're simply looking for wedding planning advice, unique wedding ideas, or an uplifting wedding podcast, I hope this episode of Weddings-ish with Jove leaves you inspired to create a celebration that's unapologetically, joyfully yours.
Listen to the full episode of Weddings-ish with Jove featuring the Food Guy Tommy Winkler & Jess Pappas streaming wherever you get your podcasts.
In this week’s Ask Jove, Sloan and Jove chat about bachelor parties. If a friend is hosting yours but has a different idea of the vibe than you do, what can you do?
Photo credit - Ana Jade Media
Coming Soon: The Modern Wedding Planner by Jove Meyer. Planning a wedding today looks different than it did even a few years ago. The Modern Wedding Planner is your practical, inclusive, and empowering guide to creating a celebration that feels authentic to you—not driven by outdated traditions or expectations. Pre-order now. It’s the best wedding planning book out there, get it for yourself or for a gift for an engaged couple planning their wedding!
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