Delighted to be able to introduce you to Susie Evans Wedding and Events…one of our wedding planner members based in Sussex. She organises beautiful weddings all throughout the home counties and has a special talent for marquees and dry hire venues. Here is a little more about her.

How did it all start?

I started my own venue styling business back in 2008 whilst starting to plan my own wedding. Back then, I really struggled to find local companies that offered this service and wanted something to work towards for when we started a family as I had a very high pressured job in the financial world. After a few years I really thought about how to expand my skills and love of weddings and events so decided to complete an online diploma course for wedding and events planning and established Susie Evans in 2011. After a few years I decided to sell my successful venue styling business and concentrate solely on my wedding planning.

Do you have a favourite venue?

My new favourite although not open until spring 2018 has to be Balcombe Place in West Sussex. Just a 10 minute drive from where I live it is a stunning venue built in 1856 which is being fully renovated and restored back to its former glory. It will be an exclusive venue and fantastic for weddings and celebrations. I get such a buzz as soon as I walk through the door!

How would clients describe you?

After many years of wedding planning and receiving many amazing heartfelt testimonials from my couples, the words that crop up time and time again about my approach to working with them has to be warm, friendly and fun. I want to ensure the planning process is fun and that they feel in control whilst ensuring I always go that extra mile.

Wedding planners or suppliers you particularly admire?

I love to see the work of Louise Perry and Emma from Something Blue. Whilst they offer a completely different style/ideal client to me, I love to see their passion, brand and professionalism shine through.

How do you unwind?  

Nothing beats a glass of red and a fabulous roast beef dinner at home with the family. I love to eat out at new restaurants too with friends and family.

What trends are you seeing for 2018/19?

I see more and more couples are wanting to almost create their own traditions, perhaps moving away from the standard sit down 3 course meal but enjoying ‘feasts’ with sharing platters and bringing in signature dishes/food types that bring some of their love and personality in to the day.

I am also seeing more textures coming in to themes with a mix of metallic, marble and natural materials.

What is your signature dish?  

It has to be roast beef! The potatoes have to be prepared properly to ensure they are fluffy inside and crispy on the outside with plenty of wholegrain mustard on the side!

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

This might seem a strange one but the first person that comes to mind and although not really a big celebrity as such but Holly Willoughby. The reason is that whenever she is on TV, she really does make me smile. Her fun, infectious personality always makes me think she would be so much fun to work with!

What is your vice?  

SWEETS! I love them! They need to be a pic ‘n’ mix variety and I love to have lots of different types but I would happily live off these!