Between the Details is the go-to podcast where clients and vendors both come away with the insight they need to make better decisions. Co-hosted by Jessica Ralph, owner of Parties à la Carte — with over 15 years of experience planning weddings and events across the United States — and Aaron Lockwood, owner of Lockwood Studios — with over 20 years of experience as a photographer and videographer — each episode tackles the topics that define exceptional events from both sides of the table: real costs, contracts, timelines, photography, vendor standards, and the finer points most never discuss.
Beyond the Dance Floor: The Art of Event Entertainment
What makes great event entertainment? It’s more than a packed dance floor—it’s knowing how to read a room, create unforgettable moments, and keep the energy flowing all night long.
In this episode of Between the Details, Jessica and Aaron sit down with Matt Winter of Total Entertainment by Matt Winter for a fun, candid conversation about the world of live event entertainment.
From building a successful entertainment company to the magic of live bands, DJs, and unexpected musical moments, Matt shares what goes into creating an experience guests won't forget.
They dive into the differences between live bands and DJs, why flexibility matters more than a perfectly planned playlist, and how wedding timelines, lengthy speeches, and even last call at the bar can make or break the momentum of a celebration.
With plenty of laughs, behind-the-scenes stories, and advice from years in the event industry, this episode is a reminder that great entertainment isn't just about the music—it's about the experience.
Whether you're planning a wedding, hosting a corporate event, or working behind the scenes, this is one conversation you won't want to miss.
21 Oct 2026
Feeding 1000 Guests: Inside the Kitchen with Chef Matthew Brennan
What does it really take to serve a beautiful, perfectly timed dinner to 1,000 guests?
This week on Between the Details, Jessica and Aaron sit down with Chef Matthew Brennan from JW Marriott Tampa Water Street and Tampa Marriott Water Street to pull back the curtain on the world of luxury event catering.
From starting his career as a 14-year-old dishwasher to leading an incredible culinary team, Chef Matthew shares his journey, his love for cooking over an open flame, and the countless moving parts that go into creating an exceptional dining experience.
We get into menu planning, food presentation, the importance of tastings, managing large-scale events, and why timing is everything. Plus, Chef Matthew shares a few vendor confessions about rising costs, unrealistic expectations, and what clients don't always realize happens behind the kitchen doors.
Whether you're an event professional, planning your own celebration, or just love a good behind-the-scenes conversation, this episode serves up a whole new appreciation for what goes into every plate.
14 Oct 2026
Beyond the Venue: Inside Armature Works
There’s more to Armature Works than meets the eye!
This week on Between the Details, Jessica and Aaron sit down with Sarah Elwood, Venue Sales Manager at Tampa’s iconic Armature Works, to talk about the history, hidden gems, and endless possibilities behind one of Tampa Bay’s most recognizable destinations.
From its historic roots as a streetcar warehouse to its transformation into a versatile event destination, Sarah takes us behind the scenes of its three unique private event spaces and shares what makes hosting an event there so special.
But we don't stop at the venue tour! We're getting into the real conversations every client and vendor needs to hear: decision fatigue, touring too many venues, setting realistic budgets, understanding your guest count, and why reading your emails (yes, all of them!) matters more than you think.
Whether you're planning a wedding, producing a corporate event, or simply love a little industry insight, this episode is packed with practical advice, a few laughs, and a fresh perspective on what goes into creating an unforgettable event.
Because finding the perfect venue isn't just about loving the space. It's about knowing what you're planning for.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
10 ratings
Contact Between the Details Podcast
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Between the Details Podcast?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
