Delighted to be able to introduce you to Couture Events, one of our wedding planner members. Tell us about yourself Susannah…

How did it all start?

I have loved weddings ever since I was little – I grew up dreaming about owning a wedding dress shop and had it all styled out in my head right down to what her antique desk and chair would look like! After a long and proven career working for a high end party planner in London, working for myself and specialising in weddings is my dream job – and it’s now my job to make your dreams come true”

 

Do you have a favourite venue?

I  have several! In London, my particular favourites are the elegant and historic ‘hidden gem’ townhouses and mansions in London which were previously privately owned but which are now available for private hire. Kensington Palace is another favourite venue where I have worked many times. Outside of London, my recommendations are Cliveden House, which holds a special place in my heart and there are a number of boutique stately homes in the home counties which also offer the most incredible backdrops for your special day

How would clients describe you?

Connected, creative and calm. I’m a born organiser and so spreadsheets, logistics and schedules are my daily bread, with efficiency and attention to detail as particular specialities! I’m also a people person so I love nothing more than introducing my couples face to face with my network of trusted suppliers, working together and building a team with a shared goal of creating a truly magical day for you. On site, I would describe myself as organised and unflappable – my job is to be prepared for every eventuality and to be able to sort it out quickly and efficiently with the least fuss whilst ensuring that all the arrangements and suppliers seamlessly dovetail together to create one spectacular day!

Wedding planners or suppliers you particularly admire?

Watching the caterers always amazes me still – how they can come in to a venue or marquee, build a pop up field kitchen and then within a matter of hours, produce a range of mouth-watering canapés and delicious 3 course menus worthy of a high end restaurant, sometimes in fairly challenging conditions, always really impresses me.  They are always the first on site and the last to leave so are the hardest workers and keeping to time is a vital part of the success of a wedding – nobody likes being kept waiting! The food, drinks and staff service is often one of the most important (and costly) elements of the day, so choosing the right caterer is a huge part of the success of any wedding.

How do you unwind?

I have 3 children who are very active and who make me laugh a lot, so being with them is the perfect way to spend the weekend. When I get a little me time, nothing  beats a long swim and a yoga class!

What trends are you seeing for 2019/20?

I’m not a fan of trends – what is ‘on trend’ this year will by its very nature  be ‘passe’  next near and no one wants to look back on their photos with regret!  I always advise my couples to work with me to design and create a day that reflects their own true style and story not a someone else’s view of what their style should be. Besides, leave following the trends to all the people – who wants a day which has the same aesthetic as so many others?

What is your signature dish?

An excellent roast beef and Yorkshire puddings!

Whose celebrity wedding (dead or alive) would you love work on?

Grace Kelly

What is your vice?

Cake!

 

Photo by Helen Warner