Guiding Couples to Success
I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Meg Smidt, a Life + Business Coach who has dedicated herself to helping individuals and couples navigate the various stages of life, particularly the transition into married life. Meg’s journey to becoming a coach is both inspiring and insightful, shedding light on her passion for guiding others.
What Inspired Meg to Become a Life and Business Coach?
Meg’s path to coaching began when she was ready for a career change after years in luxury retail management and buying. Interestingly, it started with a dream. “I had a dream that I should be a coach,” she recalls. “At that time, coaching wasn’t as well-known as it is now, so I wasn’t quite sure what it meant. But once I looked into it, I realized I had already been doing it in many ways my whole life. This is what I am supposed to be doing.”
For Meg, coaching is about ensuring that people don’t have to navigate life, relationships, and business alone. “People can reach their goals quicker and with less heartache if they have a professional to help guide them.”
Preparing Couples for Marriage
When it comes to helping couples before marriage, Meg emphasizes the importance of intentionality. Couples often approach her with the goal of starting off on the right foot, whether it be in finances, setting new routines, or practicing self-care. She works closely with them on managing a healthy work-life balance, fostering communication, and building a strong foundation for their future together.
Unique Challenges Couples Face Before the Wedding
Communication is one of the most significant challenges that Meg addresses. Differences between partners and setting shared goals, especially around finances and roles in the relationship, often become sources of friction. “There can be differences between dating and marriage,” Meg explains.
She also notes that family dynamics play a major role, particularly in cases involving blended families or complex external relationships. In her sessions, she focuses on helping couples understand and communicate their expectations regarding finances, roles, and both life and career goals. “These aspects can lead to the most tension if not addressed,” she adds.
A Success Story
Meg shared a memorable success story involving a client who loved her fiancé but faced recurring roadblocks, primarily around communication. By working together, they addressed these issues before they could escalate, allowing the couple to establish clear goals and expectations in their relationship. “We built her confidence and laid the foundation for success,” Meg says. The transformation not only benefited her romantic relationship but also her career, as both partners now work together to support each other effectively.
Staying Connected During Wedding Planning
When asked for advice on staying connected amidst wedding planning chaos, Meg offers simple yet profound guidance: “Don’t forget to date each other.” She encourages couples to carve out time to connect outside of wedding planning. Having breakfast together on the wedding day itself is one of her favorite recommendations. “Remember, it’s a relationship, not a checklist,” she advises.
She also stresses the importance of embracing imperfections. “Nothing will go perfectly, and that’s okay. Make those moments your own.”
Transitioning into Married Life
For couples Meg has worked with before the wedding, her focus shifts to holding them accountable to their established plans and goals. For those she meets after marriage, she helps them navigate any new challenges that arise, addressing pain points discovered in the transition to married life. Meg customizes her approach to each couple, ensuring their experience is tailored to their unique situation.
Approaching Coaching with an Open Mind
Meg understands that some couples may feel apprehensive about coaching. “It can be scary,” she admits. However, having an unbiased third party can be incredibly helpful. “I come in as a fresh face with no preconceived notions, helping you think of things differently and advocating for you when needed.”
Qualifications and Hobbies
Meg holds certifications as a Life and Business Coach, along with bachelor’s degrees in English and Women’s Studies. She has been coaching for over 10 years. When she’s not working, Meg enjoys music and is a concert enthusiast. Gardening and herbalism have also become key aspects of her self-care routine, providing her with balance and joy outside of coaching.
Elevate Your Relationship and Future Together
Meg’s passion for her work and dedication to helping others shine through in every aspect of her coaching. Her holistic approach to life, love, and business sets her apart as a guide for couples looking to strengthen their bond and build a solid foundation for the future.
Get in Touch
Thank you for supporting our Vendor Summer Series! This is the final blog in the series, but stay tuned for more wedding tips in our upcoming posts. Whether you’re just starting your wedding planning journey or finalizing the details, we’re here to support you every step of the way!
Happy Planning!
– Chelsey