The UK Alliance of Wedding Planners – The leading industry body for the UK Wedding Planning Market | Promoting professionalism in Wedding Planning

Today we welcome Carrie Watkins of Today and Forever to our regular Member Focus section.

Why did you become a wedding planner?

From a young child I have always loved design and fashion, and I have always been a creative person.  I am very passionate about detail, am very fortunate to have forward vision and yet,  for most of my working life, I was employed as a legal PA in commercial property !   Having worked in such a corporate environment I was very used to working under pressure and to strict deadlines.

I dealt with a number of clients on a one to one level and had great relationships with them.  In fact I always enjoyed the appointments and didn’t mind how many client matters I was passed.

However, in this job I never felt satisfied: the opposite really. I felt stifled and realised I was not utilising my talents to the best of my ability.  Photography has always been a passion of mine and after assisting with a few weddings and offering my organisational and photography skills, I was informed by many people I knew that I was in the ‘wrong job’ and I should seriously look to make wedding planning my career.

It took me a couple of years to actually make the decision, but during this time I undertook hours of research both abroad and in the UK, including a trip to Canada.  I undertook training with the UKAWP and also achieved a Diploma in Wedding Planning with the Institute of Wedding Planners.  Once I had reached that stage, I knew there was no turning back.  I launched my Wedding Planning Business ‘Today & Forever’ in September 2008.

Whats your USP?

I think my USP is my friendliness, the ability to remain unruffled and calm in a crisis, and to give 110% to a client (in some cases I have carried out more research than I agreed to do because I am a perfectionist and I wanted to produce the best for my client).  It is also a family business – my daughter assists with most of our weddings and I know I can totally trust and rely on her.

Do you have a favourite venue?

There are so many fantastic venues in Dorset and Hampshire but at the moment I am working on a wedding for next year at a gorgeous grand country house called Rhinefield House, Brockenhurst, in the New Forest.  It’s a blend of Tudor and Gothic, old and new, the romantic and the eccentric.  It is set in 40 acres and is a 4-star luxury hotel.

I am planning a wedding there for this time next year and I am loving every minute of it.  The bride is co-ordinating her wedding with lovely vintage and antique touches which fit the setting perfectly.  I can’t wait to see it all come together.

How would your clients describe you?

I have been told I am a ‘life-saver’ however I wouldn’t go that far!
“Organised – with a few blonde moments thrown in” – most probably!! 

How do you unwind?

Living very close to the beach in Bournemouth, I tend to take any opportunity I possibly can to get out and take my dog for a walk.   It’s a great chance to escape, let your mind wander and I find I can lose myself and make some great decisions.

Other than that I have been brought up as a motor racing fan – Grand Prix, Touring Cars, Classic Cars and my Uncle still races.  I would love to go on ‘Top Gear’ and try to beat the celebrities.  I can be very competitive.  Whenever a motor racing opportunity arises I grab it with both hands.  I have always loved cars, the bigger, noisier and faster the better (now this doesn’t fit in with the image of a wedding planner does it – but it works for me)!!

What wedding themes are you working on?

I am currently working on two full planning weddings.

One is based on the 1950’s Hollywood film ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ – the bride is a very big fan of Audrey Hepburn, and the fifties fashion.   She is therefore trying to recreate that era in her wedding.  The wedding is going to be in a marquee at her parents’ home.  A blank canvas is perfect for her to incorporate her favourite icon, style and her own personal stamp.  The look is going to be fairly dramatic, bridesmaids in very sleek black three quarter length dresses, with tiffany blue sashes.  Candelabras tumbling with pearls and crystals with entertainment being supplied by …… [well a girl has to have a few surprises….. sorry my lips are sealed for the rest)!

The second full planning wedding is very different.  Stately,  vintage, antique, shabby chic and very romantic looking.  Lace and David Austin roses, dusky pink and champagne, fairy wands for little flowergirls and bouquets surrounded by feathers.  Scrolls with poems rolled and tied with co-ordinating ribbons as favours for guests.  Vintage shabby chic frame for table seating plan and hand made vintage guest placenames.

What is your vice?Chocolate, wine and fast cars (and it doesn’t matter in which order – I can cope with all three at once  if offered)!

Many thanks Carrie. To find out more about Today and Forever please visit their website.

Today we welcome Tiffany Grant-Riley of Grant-Riley Weddings to our regular Member Focus. Welcome Tiffany!

Why did you become a wedding planner?
I had been working within the theatre and events industry for a few years under a management role and after getting engaged I became obsessed with weddings (as brides do!) Then I was made redundant and decided to go and do extra training in the wedding industry and before I knew it, I’d launched my own company.

What’s your USP?
I specialize in vintage wedding design from the 1920s to 1960s, whether the bride and groom want something historically accurate, or just a hint of their favourite era. I’m also more than happy to work with brides who would love a general shabby chic vintage style, but 20th century weddings are my passion.

What’s your signature dish?
I don’t really have a signature dish as such as each wedding I work on is completely bespoke and tailored to the individual. However, I love all the little details involved and spend a great amount of time and attention in getting them right.  Anything a little out of the ordinary always catches my eye too-I think the theatrical background is partly the reason for that!

Do you have a favourite venue?
A place very close to my heart is Pembroke Lodge in Richmond Park where we got married last year. Set in the heart of Richmond Park, this Georgian mansion gives you the scope to have a beautiful London wedding in the most serene and peaceful landscape, with deer hiding in the long grass.
I also think the Wallace Collection is a very special venue indeed, full of precious works of art and that stunning glass covered courtyard at the heart of it.

How would your clients describe you?
Dedicated, obsessed, wicked sense of humour, confident and creative. I’ve also been referred to as “the second mum” too.

Have you ever had a challenging client and how did you deal with it?
Up till now I’ve only had very easy going, relaxed clients, although one or two have been rather too laid back where making decisions were concerned. I had to plan one wedding within four months for a very busy professional couple and pinning them down could often be difficult, so I just had to prioritize the most important areas and we would work intensively over weekends until everything was completed. Had to be a hard task master but they thanked me for it in the end!

How do you unwind?
I love to cook with my husband, spend some time gardening or visiting stately homes pretending I live there! Chartwell (Churchill’s home) is a personal favourite as is Eltham Palace. There’s also a number of antique markets I enjoy pottering round adding bits and pieces to my collection.

If you could plan a celebrity wedding (alive or dead) whose would it be?
Keira Knightly would be a fantastic client although she’s a little young right now and don’t think she has any immediate plans for marriage! She has such style and has chosen some complex roles to work with. She’d suit a vintage wedding down to the ground and would look stunning in an Alice Temperley or Jenny Packham number (think Atonement!)

Is the job as glamorous as you thought?
Luckily I had no illusions that running my own planning business would be incredibly hard work. I’m used to long hours crawling around in the dark and the pressure of deadlines and budgets (thankfully!) so the transition was easy enough. What I found difficult was being on my own and as planners you’ll know how isolating your working life can be if you don’t have a business partner, which is why I try to network as much as I can.

Which wedding planner’s work do you respect/admire and why?
Some of the planners across the pond are amazing. They’re not afraid to try new concepts and colour schemes and the finished product is always fresh and unique. I very much admire Amy Atlas for her beautifully coordinated candy stations and little details. Maria Cooke of Ritzy Bee Events is a true inspiration-she has such an open and fresh approach to planning and I love to read her blog.

What themes are you working on for 2009?
As per usual it’s all about vintage-particularly this year as I’ll be working with one lucky bride and groom in conjunction with You & Your Wedding magazine and Luella’s Boudoir to create the ultimate vintage day. The venue, London’s Merchant Taylors Hall, lends itself beautifully to the theme so all we have to do now is wait to see what kind of vintage style the winners will have!

What’s your biggest achievement since launching?
Coming away from each wedding knowing the bride and groom had the time of their lives has been the most important achievement. Aside from that, becoming wedding coordinator to Luella’s Boudoir has been the greatest compliment.

What is your vice?
Chocolate. And winding myself up trawling property sites looking for my dream Tuscan farmhouse…maybe one day!

What trends are you seeing for 2009?
I’m seeing an increase in humanist ceremonies this year that allow greater freedom for couples wanting a truly personal ceremony in their chosen location. The colour yellow is also making a huge impact and works really well with shades of purple and green.

Today we’re thrilled to be joined by Melanie Kiani of Bellisimo Events for our regular Member Focus section.

Why did you become a wedding planner?
After almost 12 years in the law I wanted a complete change and boy was this it!  I wanted to draw on lots of experience which had gained whilst training to become a lawyer which would help me in a new career.  Having done various jobs in the past within the wedding and events industry including chef in commercial kitchens, running my own small catering business, working in a bridal shop and running charity fundraising events from a young age this seemed like a great idea for me.  People tell me that I must have an OCD when it comes to organisation!  I am very much an organiser, good manager and a quick thinker so I wanted to launch my own business offering first class service to clients for their own weddings and events.

What’s your USP?
It would have to be the legal expertise that my clients get with their wedding planner!  You could say that clients get two types of expert rolled into one – I can plan the event for them and make sure any legal angles are correctly covered.  All the years of working to tight timescales and working under pressure has given me no end of experience for ensuring that weddings and events are organised meticulously and run smoothly.

How would your clients describe you?
I have been described as running events with “military precision” – I will take that as a compliment!  I hope that I am also good fun to work with offering inspiration and ideas along the way but overall delivering that complete package and always going that extra mile for my clients.

How do you unwind?
You can’t beat a bit of exercise – a rigorous work out at the gym or a game of netball – followed of course by the compulsory glass of wine and a  big slab of cheese!

If you could plan a celebrity wedding (alive or dead) whose would it be?
In a recent press feature it was quoted that I am waiting for Robbie Williams to propose – I am still waiting for the call!  Other than Robbie, I would love to plan a wedding for someone such as Gordon Ramsey or Simon Cowell both of whom would present a very big challenge but one that I would gladly take on!  Its’ a shame that Gordon is already married and Simon has no plans to marry. Oh well!

Is the job as glamorous as you thought?
I did not think that the job was glamorous so I am not disappointed!  I thought the job would be  hard work and dedication and that is exactly how it is.  Any job involving people is likely to be tricky at times as you are dealing with human emotions particularly in this industry when its’ the most important day of most people’s lives.  It is very rewarding when you achieve something very special for a client who is delighted so that does make it all worthwhile.

Which wedding planner’s work do you respect/admire and why?
Those established planners who are so very kind and helpful when new planners launch their business and that really is invaluable support to offer.

What themes are you working on for 2009?
I guess because its spring, the pastel colours are feeling really good at the moment – I love any theme on yellow which is great for spring or summer.  The sunshine colour really does have a happy feel.  At the moment I am working on a barn dance themed wedding for early summer which should be fun too – very informal and relaxed but lots of lovely touches to the day.

What is your vice?
Wine, and cheese…oh and crisps

A huge thank you to Melanie for joining us today. To find out more about Bellissimo please visit the website.

Photo credit: Lloyd Dobbie

Today we welcome Andrea Swift of Fabulous Day for our regular Member Focus section.

Why did you become a planner?
After I had my little girl I knew I didn’t want to go back to retail management but I also knew I wanted to keep my sanity and really wanted to work for myself. I read an article in the Sainsbury’s Magazine about a wedding planner in London and had a real light bulb moment. I had enjoyed planning my own wedding a few years earlier and I as I am a ‘list’ person and highly organised I knew I would be good at the role. The rest as they say is history and 2 years after reading that article I launched Fabulous Day.

What’s your USP?
I think mine would have to be my Mother of the Bride service. My very first client was a MOB (as of course they are known in the profession), and I seem to have a knack of getting them to recommend me to their friends!

What’s your signature dish?
I love trying out new recipes on my poor family and friends-my latest find is Jamie’s Ministry of Food-Chicken Tikka Masala-yum! But my favourite and guaranteed wow at a dinner party is Lamb Tagine.

How would your clients describe you?
Well my fav has to be a bride I only worked with for a few weeks before her wedding and didn’t meet until two days before. It turned out I was saved on her phone as ‘Wonder Woman’, on the wedding day her friends kept saying-“oh your wonder woman-we have heard so much about you”.  I was so touched when I got the text the day after to say “wonder woman you were amazing”.

What themes for 2009?
I am doing quite a lot of vintage this year, but none too over the top. Also candelabras and candles in general are featuring heavily. Mainly because I can get such good prices for them – tip for you look at Covent Garden Candles you can only use them if you are trade, but the prices are great. You do have to buy quite large cases (dinner candles x 200, tea lights x 500) but they are really good quality and they will send you samples for colours. Plus of course for tea light holders you can’t beat Ikea 12 for £1.46!! Lot cheaper that the florist.

What’s your biggest achievement since launching?
This also qualifies for most challenging client! I had 14 weeks to plan from scratch a 3-day wedding for 300 guests. No venue, nothing! It was quite a challenge. We had a ceildh the night before, then a grand masquerade ball after a very personalised ceremony-which went on for 2 hours complete with gospel choir and band. Then transporting 300 guests from the Manor House down to their marquee for the wedding breakfast. Then back again when we had transformed the Manor with a live band and casino. We had over 40 children so entertainment and child minders required, plus a tea party. I did have 6 best men and 8 ushers to help who were fantastic and a groom who wanted to be involved in every decision. But we made it happen, it was extremely hard work but very, very rewarding.

What’s your vice?
Green and Black’s Mint Chocolate-it had to be chocolate of course, oh and Martha Stewart wedding magazines!

A big thank you to Andrea for answering our questions. If you’d like to find out more about Fabulous Day please visit the website.

Today we welcome Sonia Abrams of Sparkle and Wow

Why did you become a wedding planner?
I have always loved weddings and my own events have always been well received.  So it was a mixture of my project management skills and my love of stylish, well coordinated weddings that led me to become a wedding planner.  I believe that such a special day demands attention and thought.

What’s your USP?
We can work with any budget and still create a wedding that wows by really listening to our clients. Plus we hold our own wedding shows for couples and their family to meet the team and gain an understanding of the crucial role a wedding planner makes to the big day.

What’s your signature dish?
Understated elegance with a fashionable twist.

Do you have a favourite venue?
No, I am constantly discovering new ones. However, I am a fan of two – The Grove which is perfect for a contemporary wedding and The Wallace Collection for an elegant, lavish soiree.

How would your clients describe you?
Friendly, efficient, creative and a good listener.

How do you unwind?
From time to time, I go to a spa for a day or two, grab my bike and go riding, throw a dinner party for friends or play on the Wii Fit with my nieces and nephews….great fun!

If you could plan a celebrity wedding (alive or dead) whose would it be?
Marilyn Monroe or P Diddy as they are incredibly talented icons in their respective fields. It would be fun to include their work and style to really personalise their day and create a memorable wedding.  The guest list on either would be amazing!

Is the job as glamorous as you thought? No, but I didn’t really think it would be that glamorous.  It’s a demanding role that requires lots of hard work, dedication and long hours but delivers tremendous job satisfaction.

Which wedding planner’s work do you respect/admire and why?
I admire the work of Stateside Wedding Planner Preston Bailey.  The weddings he produces exude creativity, romance and are show stopping!

What’s your biggest achievement since launching?
Entirely reorganising a wedding for 200 in 36 hours including changing accommodation, venue and redesigning the theme to suit the new venue whilst managing the roller coaster of emotions of the couple. Seeing my business grow and my vision for an accessible wedding planning company become a reality.

What is your vice?
Chinese food and shoes!

What trends are you seeing for 2009? I have noticed a big nod to the 1950s; from dresses to styling, and couples wanting to create a relaxed ambiance by moving away from traditional wedding etiquette. Also an increase in requests for multi-day wedding celebrations.

Many thanks to Sonia for answering our questions. If you’d like to find out more about Sonia and Sparkle and Wow please visit their website.

Hello and welcome to the first post in our regular series ‘Member Focus’ where you get to hear all about the UKAWP’s members. Today we welcome Simone Butterfield of Dimples Events in Kent.

Why did you become a wedding planner?
My ambition in life has always been to own a manor house that is suitable to hire out for functions and weddings.  I have always dreamt of opening a courtyard of shops on the premises that covered every aspect of a wedding i.e a dress shop, a florist, a cake shop etc.  I would love to have a little wedding village as such!
While looking for a potential venue or land to develop, I considered opening a shop to sell wedding dresses but there were so many constraints around location and which gowns I could stock, that I continued my search for a career within the wedding industry.  Then I came across a website for wedding planners, the UKAWP.  It was offering a course for those who wanted an insight wedding planning and it was lead by 2 successful wedding planners.  I booked up to attend the next available course and have never looked back!

What’s your signature dish?
Planning weddings on a strict budget!  I have had to plan a few weddings now on a minimal budget and they have been just as breathtaking as a wedding with no expense spared.  In fact, it is harder to plan a wedding on a minimal budget and definitely worth hiring a wedding planner for.

Do you have a favourite venue?
I do – but I am biased.  I can only chose the venue where I was married in 2002;  Turkey Mill in Maidstone, Kent.  What I love about this venue is that it is like a secret garden.  When my husband and I first visited the venue, we had no idea what we were going to find behind a rag-stone wall.  We were taken through a wrought iron gate and surprisingly faced with a secret garden.  There was a water mill, 9 acres of lush grass, 2 ponds and an orangery.  I can still remember the feelings we both shared when we first visited Turkey Mill.

How would your clients describe you?
All of my clients have commented on how easy they find it to talk to me about their ideas for their wedding day, which is a huge compliment.  I find that I can easily interpret their characters and assess their likes and dislikes.  It’s certainly not everyday that your client rings you and asks you to go bridesmaid dress shopping without any help (and trusts you to buy them with less than 12 weeks before the wedding).  I have also been described to be attentive to detail, passionate, diplomatic, methodical and lively!

If you could plan a celebrity wedding, whose would it be?
The celebrity I would love the opportunity to plan a wedding for, is Kelly Brook.  She has roots local to me and currently resides in a village where my husband owns his business – in fact she has dropped in a couple of times!  I feel that because she is a similar age to me and has stayed local to her roots, she may wish to have her wedding in Kent – an area that I have a great knowledge of.  I am also empathetic to Kelly’s loss of her father to cancer.  Sadly I lost my mother to cancer at a young age and planning a wedding without a parent, is unbearable.  I would love the opportunity to work with such a huge celebrity who seems so grounded and yet so successful.

Which wedding planners work do you admire / respect and why?
I must say that Bernadette has always been my mentor and I respect her profoundly.  I had the pleasure of working alongside Bernadette at a wedding that was local to me and this gave me an insight into her professionalism.  Bernadette has always freely shared her experiences of wedding planning and has always helped me with any questions that I have asked.  I admire Bernadette for launching the UKAWP to promote professionalism within the industry, it certainly helps me to assure clients that I work to a code of ethics and that I am a dedicated professional.

What themes are you working on for 2009?
There seem to be some classic themes that have been around for a couple of years now and brides are not letting go!  I have a claret wedding and a silvery green wedding.  Both working with timeless pieces that are traditional – along the lines of butterflies and roses!

What is your biggest achievement since launching?
My biggest achievement since launching has still got to be a wedding that I planned in 2007.  I was hired in May to help plan a wedding for the September.  The only hitch was that the wedding venue had to built above the clients home!  The finishing date was 6 weeks before the wedding!  Luckily my clients and I developed a great relationship, they trusted me and respected my comments and advice.  It was possibly one of the hardest weddings that I have planned, with so many ‘what if’ scenarios.  Yet, it was one of my favourite weddings.  I felt emotionally overwhelmed at what we had achieved on the big day.

A huge thank you to Simone for taking the time to complete our questions. If you’d like to find out more about Simone or Dimples Events please visit their website.