Today we introduce Andri Benson from Always Andri one of our associate members. We hope you enjoy learning a little more about Andri.

Why did you become a wedding planner?

I was a freelance theatre designer when I planned my own personal big fat Greek Wedding. Not only did I absolutely love it but it was very similar to theatre production; designing the look, organising the set, props & costumes, working to strict budgets and timelines. Not long after I got married I started working full time at the BBC as a costumier so being a wedding planner was for ‘one day’. Then when the BBC closed the costume store I realised that ‘one day’ had arrived so I researched the industry, did my training with UKAWP and went for it setting up my own company in March 2009.

What’s your USP?

Being Greek and growing up in London with many friends from various cultural backgrounds, and experience planning my own intercultural English and Greek wedding, I want to help couples incorporate their cultural heritages into their wedding days.  Also with my theatre background I am a very practical hands on person and used to working with people who are facing the spotlight.

How would your clients describe you?

Friendly and bubbly, always there to help, organised and calm. I was described by one  couple as having a very lovely aura. 

How do you unwind?

Nothing beats a long hot bath and while reading a good book, but if I really want to let my hair down then I love to go out dancing. 

Is the job as glamorous as you thought?

I was often asked this question when I worked in the Theatre and at the BBC but what I loved about those jobs and about wedding planning is the working behind the scenes to ensure everything is picture perfect for the stars of the show.

What themes are you working on for 2010?

For the summer a modern black and white theme with touches of orange and for the autumn a traditional red and gold wedding. 

What is your biggest achievement since launching?

Being considered an inspiration to others after featuring in You magazine felt good, I just think of myself as getting on with it, helping others and doing something I love.

What trends are you seeing for 2010?

I think using peacock feathers is going to be big and although the vintage pastel colours are still going strong for those who want something bolder I’m loving turquoise, teals and jades.

Ideas big in the US are working their way into the UK and with the rise of UK blogs such as Rock’n’Roll Bride I think we’ll be seeing a lot more couples realise that they can break from tradition and really personalise their day their way. 

To learn more about Andri visit her website.