Today we welcome one of our new UKAWP associate members, Lisa Sabin of Just Bespoke. Over to you Lisa….
Why did you become a wedding planner?
I’ve always loved weddings - when I was younger I remember picking out my dream wedding dress from the pages of Vogue Novias and I still have the cutting in my cupboard to this day.
I’ve spent the last seven years working in PR and events and after numerous celebrity parties, brand product launches, press trips and corporate dinners, I realised that it was time to take the leap and use my experience to launch Just Bespoke. Through close contacts in the sports industry I have been lucky enough to help with some high profile weddings which although challenging, proved to me why I love my job so much.
What’s your USP?
I take inspiration from all over and think it is really important to treat every couple in a bespoke manner, listening to their tastes and then looking for ideas to create their day from fashion, culture, travel, music, interiors, making sure these are reflected in their wedding. I’m a big believer in the small personal touches making a big difference.
What’s your signature dish?
I really enjoy cooking but it doesn’t come particularly naturally to me…but, after a lot of practice, I can now make a very tasty lasagne and a delicious blackberry cheesecake!
Do you have a favourite venue?
I really love blank canvases - venues which can be transformed into something extraordinary and totally bespoke to the couple’s wishes over night. Having said that, I also love the Walled Garden at The Grove in Hertfordshire and Penshurst Place in Kent - both truly magical venues offering interesting and quirky spaces to transform.
How would your clients describe you?
I bring a lot of personal touches to the planning, going the extra mile and coming up with fresh ideas. I’m personable and meticulous and like to build up a trust and rapport with my clients.
Have you ever had a challenging client and how did you deal with it?
Every wedding is a challenge and of course there are days when clients can panic and get stressed out. Couples who hire me are putting their wedding day in my hands…they want the most unforgettable and magical day and it is my job to deliver this and make sure that they are happy in the process.
How do you unwind?
I worked in travel PR for many years and helped to promote some of the most luxurious resorts in the world. This really gave me a taste for nice holidays and now I like nothing better than packing a suitcase and heading off somewhere hot to relax by the pool, read a good book and soak up the sun!
If you could plan a celebrity wedding (alive or dead) whose would it be?
For me, there is a whole list of people - from Prince William to Simon Cowell, Scott Schuman to Lady Gaga. Any of those would be a hugely demanding but if they’re reading this, I would love the challenge!
Is the job as glamorous as you thought?
I never imagined that wedding planning would be glamorous - I’ve been arranging events for a long time and know that it is hard work, extremely pressured and everything needs to be beyond perfect…but I love the variety of clients and the chance to deliver a number of extraordinary events - and when I see the finished result it is always worth it!
Which wedding planner’s work do you respect/admire and why
Since joining the UKAWP I’ve come across a lot of inspirational planners. In particular, Kelly from The Bespoke Wedding Company has been hugely helpful, giving me advice, opportunities and experiences to help me get my business off the ground. Outside of the Alliance, like most planners, I love Preston Bailey - his imagination and creativity are second to none.
What themes are you working on for 2010?
I’m currently working on a magical starry theme for a winter wedding, think soft whites and blues with a touch of gold, romantic touches, storm lanterns, candles and warm cashmere shrugs.
What’s your biggest achievement since launching?
Earlier this year I planned a traditional Turkish wedding for a couple and their 550 guests. It was a lot of hard work as I had to ensure that the event was sympathetic to the traditional customs that were to be incorporated into the day, while also bringing in modern elements. It was a huge learning experience but thankfully the long hours of research and planning were worth it as it all went extremely well!
What is your vice?
There is absolutely nothing nicer than an Apple martini!
What trends are you seeing for 2010?
For 2010, I’m seeing a lot of neutral colour palettes (beiges, pastels, greys) with one statement colour to accent the design. I think this is really striking and creates a very bold design which I am a big fan of.
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