Spring 2009 £2.75

For planners, organisers and other specialist intermediaries

Wedding planner Tiffany Grant-Riley chose a 1930’s themefor her own vintage-inspired day. Drawing on experiencegained from organising weddings for other people, shearranged for special touches including an ‘old school’ sweetshop selection, bouquet’s tied with lace and a surpriseperformance by Basement Jaxx. Full story, Page 9

Warningfor webvigilanceExclusive By Mary Ferguson

A FURIOUS wedding planner iswarning others to be vigilant afterdiscovering her website contenthad been stolen on three differentoccasions.

Zöe Lingard, who contributesblog entries to the UK Alliance ofWedding Planners, decided to testher own site when she was askedto write about website theft.

Using the websiteCopyscape.com, Zöe typed in herURL and the site then searchedcyberspace for identikit copies.

She was shocked to discover thatthe words she used to describe herservices had been lifted by threedifferent wedding planningcompanies – one as far away asSouth Africa.

The other two were in Cumbriaand Northern Ireland and Zöeclaims that one had copiedeverything word for word, even hergraphics. She said: “I wasgobsmacked when I discovered mywork had been stolen the first timeand even slightly humoured by theaudacity of it. But by the thirddiscovery I was fuming. It took mea long time to put together thewording on my site and I feel sad

that in a creative industry likewedding planning, there are thosewho can’t even sit down anddesign their own words for theirwebsites.”

After researching online, Zöesent a ‘cease and desist’ letter toeach company, threatening legalaction if they didn’t remove theplagiarised content within threedays. Within 48 hours, everythinghad been taken down but Zöe saidthat when she contacted theoffenders, they pleaded ignorance– blaming it instead on their webdesign companies.

“I’m sure this has happened toother wedding planners, who maynot even realise it. At the end ofthe day it’s theft – and it destroysthe good name of the weddingplanning industry.”

Bernadette Chapman, trainingdirector for the UKAWP added:“Recently we successfully sued anAustralian company who copied 90per cent of our website. Now, wecheck on Copyscape every monthand would urge other weddingplanners to do the same.”� Have you had your websitecontent plagiarised? Contact MaryFerguson on 01226 734712 oremail mf@whpl.net.

PlanningcompanychangeshandsWEDDING planningcompany Every Detailhas changed hands andexpanded throughoutthe UK.

After founding thebusiness eight yearsago, Barbara Collinshas sold to SandraNemorin-Noel andfound two newfranchisees – bringingits number of offices tosix.

Sandra’s daughterSabrina is looking afterclients in Yorkshire, thenorth east andScotland and KatHogan has set up afranchise in Cambridge.

Because Sabrina isfluent in Europeanlanguages, thecompany is now alsooffering weddingsabroad.

Sandra said:“Barbara has handedover the business at anexciting stage. We arebeing realistic in thecurrent economicclimate but ultimatelyit is our aim at EveryDetail to expand andbecome a brand leader– and a namesynonymous with theperfect wedding day.”� Full story, Page 16

01 6/3/09 10:58 Page 1

02 hotel du vin 4/3/09 11:13 Page 1

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ContactsEDITORIALAndrew Harrod – group editor – 01226 734639 ah@whpl.net

Nicola Hyde – news editor – 01226 734459 nl@whpl.net

Mary Ferguson – editor – 01226 734712 mf@whpl.net

PRODUCTION

Judith Halkerston– group deputy editor – 01226 734458 jhalkerston@whpl.netKyle Wilkinson – designer – 01226 734711 kw@whpl.net

ADVERTISING

Tony Barry– sales and marketing director tb@whpl.net

Danielle Hornby – national salesexecutive – 01226 734707dlh@whpl.net

CIRCULATIONKelly Tarff 01226 734695kt@whpl.net Fax: 01226 734477www.weddingprofessional.co.uk

Marquees 15

Flash,bang,

wallop ...what a

picture!

Page 7

Asian weddings 17

Venue directory 20-22

Why couples are opting

for the Emerald isle

Page 10

Inside ...More bridesare usinga plannerBy Mary Ferguson

MORE couples would use a weddingplanner now than in 2007, according tothe results of a survey.

Research by Wedding Chaos revealed17 per cent of engaged couples areplanning to use one, compared to justnine per cent of those asked previously.

Spokesman David Cartlidge said:“This shift seems to be the result ofincreasing awareness of weddingplanners and the role they can play inorganising a wedding.

“In 2007 a sizeable 18 per cent wereunaware of the role they filled, whereasnow this has dropped to just 12 percent.”

Of the brides questioned via theWedding Chaos website, there weremixed opinions on the benefits of usinga wedding planner.

One respondent said: “My fianceeand I chose to use a planning companywe met at a local wedding show, eventhough it was not something we'd eventhought about before.

“They got us over 20 per centdiscount off the price of our venue andother perks from the photographer andcake company and made everythingreally fun.”

However, another bride added: “Iwouldn’t use a wedding planner andhave never considered it.

“I think the planning stage would bea real shame to miss out on.”

Mich Turner, the creative force behindLittle Venice Cake Company, has launched anew book featuring a selection of fashioninspired wedding cakes. ‘Couture WeddingCakes’ is her third book, shot on location inUK venues including The Dorchester,Claridge’s and The Connaught.

Ireland 10&11

Alternative weddings 13

The founder of Mulberry, fashion designerRoger Saul, has turned the former Mulberryheadquarters in Somerset into a weddingand events venue.Kilver Court has three boardroomsoverlooking the gardens, which have acapacity of 24, and the Jardine’s Ballroomwhich seats up to 150 and benefits from itsown stage and outdoor terrace.Roger also owns nearby boutique hotelCharlton House, which caters for 100 guestsin the replica Orangery.

A French-style chateau inBedfordshire is now availablefor weddings. Wrest Park, a19th century mansion, standsin 90 acres of landscapedgrounds at Silsoe near Bedford.Now licensed for civil weddingsand partnership ceremonies,the house and grounds can behired on an exclusive basis forceremonies and receptions onFridays and Saturdays all yearround.

Towering planCOUPLES planning to tie the knot at the top ofBlackpool Tower can now rent out a block ofseven nearby luxury apartments for the wholewedding party.

The Beach House, Blackpool’s first all five starself-catering accommodation, is located on theseafront and can accommodate up to 32 adultsand children and up to seven babies. The towerwas granted a wedding licence last year,allowing couples to say ‘I Do’ 308 feet in the air.

03 4/3/09 11:15 Page 1

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By Christina Eccles

JOURNEY South star Andy Pemberton haslaunched a new company to pass on theexperience he has gained in the wedding and events industry and address some of the problems he encountered at past gigs.

The company – Pemberton Event Production– specialises in providing artists for a wide range of events including weddings,supplying anyone from X Factor stars to bandssuch as Girls Aloud and Journey Souththemselves.

Andy said the company – which has been trading for the last six months – has the edge over the competition because his work as a singer and previous involvementin organising gigs has enabled him to buildup an impressive portfolio of industry contacts.

He explained: “Long before X Factor weused to have an entertainment business, JS Entertainments, and we used to do reallywell.

“We mainly focused on weddings andprivate events and although we put out other acts we specialised in putting ourselvesout.

“Since X Factor we have done so much workwhich has opened our eyes to the industry. Wehave seen so much and noticed the pitfalls inthe industry so this seemed like the right thingto do.”

Andy also said that so far the company has been very well received and although itdoes specialise in supplying entertainment, fullevent management services can also beoffered.

He added: “Lots of companies forget howimportant entertainment is and it is sometimespushed to the back.

“We are definitely specialists in theentertainment sector and see it as an integralpart of an event.

“As we are in the business, we have met alot of artists along the way and have a lot ofcontacts to call upon.

“I have learned a lot in the past ten yearsand played at venues right through the scale.

“I will still be doing a lot of work as part ofJourney South so will be very busy doing boththings.

“We would like to maintain a really goodfirst trading year and have some really goodthings in the pipeline.

“It’s a really exciting venture.”Andy Pemberton

X Factor star keento use experiencein new venture

04 4/3/09 11:17 Page 1

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A year ago Miriam Madden andhusband Michael were in Italy, looking forthe perfect wedding gift for a friend’swedding. As chance would have it theystumbled upon a Bombonieri gift shoppacked full of authentic Italian weddinggifts and favours.

With the help of business partner Philip

Appleton, Tesori was born to enable UKbrides to have the same choice of high endwedding favours for which the Italians arerevered, at a budget that won’t break thebank.

In Italy custom dictates that atweddings, birthdays and special occasionsbomboniere are presented to guests. In thebeginning these were only associated withthe wealthy aristocracy and consisted ofprecious gems, gold, silver, crystal andporcelain given together with five almonds.

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wealth, happiness, longevity and fertilityand was the bride’s way of saying thankyou to guests and providing them with amemento of the occasion.

Tesori in keeping with Italian tradition,provide wedding favours, bomboniere andtable decorations to help you plan thatunique wedding that will bring to life allthe magic and romance that every bridewants.

The exceptional ranges include organzasacks, presentation boxes, glassware,ceramics and confetti. Their exclusivecontract with Italian designers means thatprofessional wedding planners have accessto the finest Italian designs as soon as theyare released into the market. You wouldthink that lavish gifts such as these wouldcome with an equally heavy price tag – butthey don’t.

Tesori are offering bespoke discounts forwedding planners who support them. Theyhave a price guarantee and three-daydelivery from Italy.

If you want to be ahead of the otherwedding professionals in providing uniquefavours then contact Tesori Favore on 0800440 2315. All of the designs are displayedon the website: www.tesorifavore.com

05 6/3/09 11:51 Page 1

weddingprofessionalnews6

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Wedding plannerVictoria swapshalters for altarsBy Mary Ferguson

A NEW wedding planning company hasbeen set up in the Midlands, by a formerfashion buyer who noticed a gap in themarket.

Victoria Wormall launched Victoria Jamesin Rugby after organising functions as partof her role and meeting brides and groomswho felt lost with their planning.

She said: “Many couples I came acrossdidn't have the time to source and researchwedding suppliers. The only time they hadavailable was evenings and weekends andfound it tricky to manage busy careers andsocial lives.

“I found that many couples werecoming into the store to ask advice onareas other than suit hire and thishighlighted the need for a service whereguidance could be given.”

Victoria trained with the UK Alliance ofWedding Planners (UKAWP) and said life asa wedding planner is ‘fabulous’.

“I love exploring venues I've not been tobefore, and meeting the teams who makethe day happen. I have been all over theMidlands finding hidden treasures fromdress shops to bespoke jewellers.

“I am loving every day as each one isdifferent and brings something new. It is somuch more than I expected.”

Victoria has planned two weddings sofar and has learned that they don’t alwaysgo to plan. At the last, an extra guestappeared 15 minutes before the weddingbreakfast and the groom lost his trousers –meaning a guest had to lend him his andmake sure only his top half was in the

photos.“I can safely say that I have learned no

matter how much you prepare for theunexpected, something will always happento keep you on your toes.”

Victoria said the biggest challenge shehas faced so far is knowing how to marketherself – and changing people’sperceptions that wedding planners are justfor the rich and famous.

She added: “Setting up business in aneconomic downturn will be a challenge,but I believe now is the time people willwant help with being wise with theirbudget.

“Being thrifty doesn't meancompromising on quality or wow factor.”

Victoria Wormall

Wedding planner and industryguru Julie Tooby, director ofBerkshire-based ‘Essentially You’, is celebrating a prestigious award win at The WeddingAwards 2009. Named ‘BestWedding Planner’, Julie is – foronce – sipping the champagneherself.She said: “It’s completely amazingto win the award and as it’s voted

for by real brides, it means a hugeamount. Wedding planning hasbecome more and morecompetitive over the last year soto scoop the title means we’reproviding a service that stands outabove everyone else.”Last year Julie was ‘highlycommended’ in the same category,in the awards which are organisedby Wedding Ideas magazine.

Amazingly popular ...AMAZING Grace is the hymnmost frequently chosen bycouples planning theirwedding through the Churchof England’s new onlineceremony planner.

The ‘listen and choose’service gives couples thechoice of 25 hymns forweddings and 12 readingsfrom the Bible.

John Newton’s Amazing

Grace is the most popularchoice for a wedding hymn,closely followed by Make Mea Channel of Your Peace andAll Things Bright andBeautiful.

The wedding planner waslaunched last October tocoincide with the introductiona new Church law making itpossible for more people towed in the church of theirchoice.

New outfit proves a hit!THE creators of a websitethat helps weddingguests make sure no-oneelse will be wearing thesame outfit have brandedit a huge success.

Whatruwearing,co.ukaims to prevent theembarrassment of double dressing byinviting guests to postwhat they will bewearing online.

Spokesperson DaniellaBramall said: “This is atruly quality site that isbeing warmly receivedby event planners andparty goers alike.”

The site was launchedat last Autumn’s NationalWedding Show and hassince been awardedWedding Service for2009 by InsightMagazine.

Adding the ‘wow’ factorWEDDING planners The Bespoke Wedding Companyhave launched a sister company that hires unusual,beautiful and useful products for weddings and parties.

Products include garden games, ivory umbrellas,wooden seating plan easels, neutral white highchairs,rugs and throws, stem vases and candelabra.

Director Kelly Chandler said: “We’ve spent yearssourcing all manner of practical and pretty items to addthe ‘wow’ factor to our weddings.

“We’ve always thought that it must be cheaper forbrides to hire than to buy when we’re talking one-offuse and hence the launch of this new business.”

06 4/3/09 12:28 Page 1

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By Mary Ferguson

A WEDDING planning company operatingonly home appointments has expandedwith the opening of a bridal store in Kent.

Heading Up The Aisle – established in2007 – has taken ownership of The BridalSuite in Chislehurst, which has been re-branded into the company’s headquarters.

Kay Carey and her mother-in-lawMaggie Carey used to walk past the unitand wish they could purchase it, so weredelighted when the opportunity came up.

Kay said: “We needed somewhere toshowcase all our products and weddingplanning solutions under one roof as ourbusiness was expanding beyond ourhomes.

“We were doing mobile services withbridal wear as well as planning – which westill do – but wanted to be able to offercustomers a flexible opening approacharound their needs and childcarearrangements.

“We have even visited a bride whosemother was terminally ill and could not getto a bridal shop which meant that shecould see her daughter as a bride in thecomfort of their home.”

The pair have already seen their profile

raised locally and suppliers have beencontacting them about working together.

“It is early days but we have alreadyreceived lots of good feedback about theflexibility of our approach and the factcustomers can come on Sundays and tryon as many dresses as they like – whilstalso talking about their venue decor andwedding planning requirements.”

Heading Up The Aisle will be exhibitingat the National Wedding Show and plan todo some magazine advertising to tellpeople about the new services.

Kay added: “We think that opening theshop has been a very positive move for thebusiness.”

Kay (right) and Maggie in their newshop

Home-visitplannersopen shop

A Warwickshire photographer haslaunched a new service thatcombines photography withentertainment, designed to bringwedding receptions to life. Pellier Weddings, operated by PaulRogers, can bring a mobile studio tothe venue, allowing guests to pose with props or strut theirstuff before collecting the instantprints. The service aims to bring

together the best of modern portraitphotography with the fun andspontaneity of reportage.Paul said: “The props are so popular,especially the boxing gloves, whichare incredibly popular with thebridal couple themselves. “Guests just love posing and whentheir prints pop out in minutes theyare amazed at how great they look –they feel like stars.”

07 4/3/09 11:20 Page 1

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By Mary Ferguson

A NEW trend that involves wedding couples andguests acting out scenes and songs to createtheir own big day musical is gatheringmomentum.

Dubbed ‘marryoke’, the novelty productionsfeature the bride and groom as the leadcharacters but include the rest of the weddingparty as the supporting cast.

In the videos, cast members dance and actout scenes from a well known musical movieand then lip sync to one of the best known hits.

Since she set up 4 Life Films a year ago,Jennifer Page has been involved with threemarryoke films, including one where the couplechose 'That's How You Know' from Disney's2007 hit film 'Enchanted' to be the track.Andrew and Caroline Coates chose the songbecause they are both big Disney fans.

Jennifer told Wedding Professional: “Theywanted to recreate as much of the original aspossible so it did take over the day and withoutthe cooperation of the photographer, thewedding co-ordinator at the venue, guests andthe couple themselves, it would have beenimpossible.”

The other two marryokes Jennifer producedused the song ‘Perfect Day’ and most clientsbook the package alongside a traditional

wedding video.“Many people are tired of everyone’s

weddings looking the same and this is one wayto make it different.

“We’ve also done a wedding where the bestman’s speech was a spoof episode of WhoWants to be a Millionaire with the groom as thecontestant and another one where they hadbingo for all the guests after the speeches.”

Jennifer added: “Personally I’d love to domore like Caroline and Andy’s where the couplechoose a different song, one that really meanssomething to them and is relevant to their livesand their history together.

“That way it really is something unique andpersonal and everyone will remember the day.”

Caroline and Andy Coates produced a marryoke with a song fromEnchanted. Credit: The Angel's Image Photography

‘Marryoke’ hitsright note withmusical couples

08 4/3/09 11:21 Page 1

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AT ten years old, Tiffany used to spendher time fishing for bits of broken chinaand clay pipes, laying the foundations fora love of all things vintage that inspiredthe theme for her wedding to fiancee RobRiley.

The wedding was held at PembrokeLodge, a Georgian mansion in RichmondPark, with 40 guests at the ceremony andwedding breakfast and 60 in the evening.

Tiffany said: “I didn't want to go all outand turn the day into a fancy dress event,so I used subtle touches instead.

“For exampIe I made place cards fromswatches of 1930s floral wallpaper – tiedwith lace and flowers – and plumes ofdeep blue hydrangeas were arranged intovintage decanters and medicine bottles.

“Our colour scheme reflected the ArtDeco period, using deep blues and goldsand displays of peacock feathers.

“The bouquets were also tied with laceand a vintage brooch – mine was 1920s

with blue rhinestones.” Tiffany also collects cobalt blue and gilt

teacups so they had some hydrangeaheads displayed in those on themantelpieces in the main room. Eachtable had an antique lace and embroider-ed tablecloth in the centre to pull theconcept together. Tiffany’s wedding dress,made by her mother, was a 1930s’ stylebias cut creation in crepe back satin.“Most brides of the era would have hadtheir gown made by a female member ofthe family, so I wanted to include thattradition and it was something we couldwork on together.”

Because the couple were taking theirhoneymoon on the Amalfi Coast, themenu was inspired by Italian cuisine.

The groom’s family were all vegan, so alot of thought had to go in to what wason offer. Tiffany chose rustic dishes ofpasta, Italian antipasti, focaccia breadsand roasted summer vegetables with a

cheese board and vintage sweet shopselection later in the evening. Accordingto Tiffany, the old-fashioned rhubarb andcustards went down a storm.

“We had to design a menu that boththe vegetarians and vegans could eat. Itwas all worth it in the end, but at thetime it was a nightmare discovering all theingredients they couldn't eat. Giving thema salad just wasn't an option, we wantedthem to feel as included as everyone elseso the meal was very important. I thinkthey were surprised to see just how hardwe worked to make sure they werecatered for.”

The wedding cake was made byCarolyn Mackenzie and was a moderntake on the sugar flowered cakes thatwere so popular up until the 1990’s.

Tiffany added: “I'd originally set up ameeting to sign her onto my books as asupplier, but by the time I'd left I'dbooked our cake with her.”

When wedding planner Tiffany Grant-Riley tied her own knot last summer, she chose a vintage themeinspired by her love of the thirties. Mary Ferguson found out more.

Tiffany and her husband

FOR her big entrance,Tiffany surprised the guestsby arranging for her friendVula Malinga from BasementJaxx to sing and play her andthe bridesmaids down theaisle to Ella Fitzgerald's ‘TheMan I Love’.

She said: “Our guestswere completely surprised

by the whole day. I thinkthey were expecting a ratherstuffy and traditional affair,but that's not what we'reabout at all.”

Tiffany said she learned alot from planning her ownwedding that she can usewith future clients: “I’vedefinitely realised the

importance of budgets. Wegave ourselves a ball parkfigure and imagined we'dhave a little more availablefurther down the line – wedidn't – and it set us up for alot of stress. I had to let goof a few aspects, such as thevintage car and chair covers,in order to allow the budget

to stretch further.”She added: “Wedding

planning is a constantprocess of development andit's important to evaluateyourself. It was such abizarre experience being theone getting married insteadof standing with my clip-board, in the background.”

A touch of the thirties

Bride drafts in a friend to jazz up proceedings ...

09 4/3/09 11:21 Page 1

weddingprofessionalIreland10

A BIG percentage of people across theworld can trace their roots back to Ireland,making it the destination of choice forcouples not just from England, but all overthe globe.

The country is also a favourite withcelebrities with David Beckham, PaulMcCartney, Dita Von Teese and ShaneFelan marrying at venues includingBallintubber Abbey in Co. Mayo, SlaneCastle in Co. Meath and Castle Leslie inCo. Monaghan

Party cities like Dublin also provide theideal base for a celebration, while thespectacular scenery will always be a lure forcouples thinking about their weddingphotos.

Sam Milligan is co-director of Personal Touch Weddings, based inNorthern Ireland. Along with his businesspartner, the company were recentlyfeatured on the popular televised YellowPages adverts.

He said: “The range of venues andlocations to marry in Ireland are second tonone.

“Most of our clients are Irish residentsand Ireland is such an attractive place tomarry because of the hospitality andcharm of the people.”

Michelle McDermott, a wedding plannerbased in Limerick, said the majority of herclients are not Irish residents, but areattracted to the country because of its‘magical’ qualities.

Michelle, who has run MC Events forseven years, said: “Castles and manorhouses are the most popular venues hereand as well as people coming from abroad,more Irish couples than ever are choosingto use wedding planners.

“People from Northern Ireland tend tomarry in the south, which in the past hasbeen aided by the strong sterling against

the Euro. “But the biggest challenge facing me

and other Irish planners now is thedownturn in the global economy.”

However Sam, who has been planningweddings for ten years, said the industry isconstantly expanding.

He added: “The industry here is growingat a great speed and every young lady youtalk to at a wedding wants to become awedding planner.

“More and more companies are startingyear on year.”

For clients wanting to marry abroad – but without the budget for Mauritius – Ireland is becoming anincreasingly popular destination. In a special feature, Wedding Professional spoke to some of thecountry’s planners and found out what the Emerald Isle can offer.

Why Irish I do’sare smiling ...

Dita Von Teese

Ireland’s many castles appeal tocouples

Sam Milligan

Horse power proves a problemfor Galway wedding plannerAFTER a decade in the Irish weddingindustry, planner Judy Mullins hasexperienced more than most.

After starting out as a florist, she has runI Do Weddings in Galway for five years andsaid the wedding that stands out for herinvolved American clients, who luckily hada good sense of humour.

She said: “We had chosen a very quietlocation for the ceremony, in the heart ofthe countryside, and the wedding partywas being transferred to a horse drawncarriage to take them to the church.

“Suddenly everyone decided theyneeded the toilet so I had to take 12people to knock on a stranger’s door andbeg to use their bathroom.

“Time was running out and the carriagestill hadn’t arrived to take the bride andgroom to the church and I was starting topanic, especially as it was one of thewettest days in Ireland.

“Suddenly a car screeched up and thebride’s brother – in full navy uniform –

announced in a strong American accent:The Goddamn horse refused to move.”

“Thankfully my bride had a fabuloussense of humour and I was able to contactthe owner of the carriage, explain whathappened, and he duly organised for acarriage drawn by two horses instead ofone to be there. The bride’s departingwords will stay with me for a long time –she said: “Judy, I just got an upgrade.”

Judy Mullins

KATE Deegan has been planning weddingsin Co. Clare for seven years, through hercompany Co-ordination Made Easy.

She said: “In the beginning I wasworking for lots of Americans and Englishpeople coming to Ireland for a destinationwedding, but now 50 per cent of mycouples are living in Ireland.

“It’s such an attractive place to getmarried because of the history, the peopleand fantastic venues like the castles. Theonly thing against Ireland sometimes is therain, but that doesn’t stop people havingfun.

“When I started the wedding planningindustry here was virtually non-existent butnow it is much more popular.”

Kate said that constantly coming upwith new ideas is the hardest – but mostimportant – part of her job.

She said she was the first planner inIreland to offer the chocolate fountain fiveyears ago, and now the company offers aphoto booth for receptions, enablingguests to have instant photos taken.

She added: “As I am well-establishedand started my business when there were

very few others doing it, I now have agreat name and a lot of experience behindme.”

Ireland’s still fun in the rain

Kate Deegan

10 4/3/09 11:23 Page 1

weddingprofessionalireland 11

SITTING off the West coast of Ireland,Inis Mor boasts bucket-loads of charmand more than a little bit of history.

The Americans and Japanese love it –you can’t avoid the tourists when you are there – and British couples too are choosing its rugged beauty as a background for their weddingphotos.

The Aran Islands Hotel is the only hotelon the island – other accommodation isbed and breakfast – and canaccommodate up to 50 sleeping guests,catering for 120 for a sit-down meal. Amarquee can be arranged if required.

And special ‘Wellness Rejuvenation’rooms feature magnetic earthtechnologies and ionic comforttechnology, aiming to promote restfulsleep, de-stress and calm.

It may also be the fresh coastal air butstaying in one of these rooms really doesguarantee a good night’s sleep – with orwithout sampling the ales on offer in thebar.

For couples wanting the full Inis Morexperience, they can hire their ownCeltic priest – a self-employed monkcalled Dara Molloy.

Available either through the AranIslands Hotel or independently he ishappy to perform blessings for mixedand same sex couples and can act as atoastmaster or say Grace before thewedding breakfast.

He operates all over Ireland but hasbeen involved in many weddings on InisMor and told me he works with anumber of wedding coordinators.

He said: “Where my ceremony on Inis

Mor scores with people is that it is heldon a monastic site that has remainsdating back to the sixth century, whichwe integrate into the ceremony.”

The bride gets blessed by the watersof the holy well and the groom getsblessed at the phallic standing stone.

The couple make their vows at theancient altar and thenmake wishes at thewishing stone.

“It’s such a uniqueisland, yet has theinfrastructure neededfor a small to mediumsized wedding. Everyyear in the last sixyears the numberswanting to come toAran for their wedding

has increased and I’m now performingup to 15 Aran weddings a year.”

Currently the island is accessible onlyby ferry from the mainland, but The Aran Islands Hotel is putting plans inplace to launch a seaplane, to bechartered exclusively by the weddingparty.

Known as the Craggy Islandof Father Ted fame, InisMor – the top of the threeAran Islands – is becomingincreasingly popular withcouples keen to marry onmore unusual Irish soil.Mary Ferguson visited theisland to find out more.

Couples drawn to ‘Craggy island’ ...Right: Dara Malloy, far right:Arran Hotel and below right: Acouple who were married on Aran

11 4/3/09 11:24 Page 1

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Wedding planner Mark Niemierkojoined forced with The Langhamhotel in London to host a Valentine’sdrinks reception.Current and previous Niemierkocouples, bridal press and high-endwedding industry suppliers attendedthe event, which showcased plans forthe hotel’s forthcomingrefurbishments.Guests also viewed a bridal dress bydesigner Jasper Conran, an exclusivecake creation by renowned cakemaker Peggy Porschen and floraldisplays by florist Neil Birks.Wedding photographer NikoleRamsay captured the event on film.Pictured left: Caroline Bernstein ofBrowns Bride, wedding plannerDebbie Dwek and Mark Niemierko,enjoying the party.

Mamma Mia! Couplesopt for Greek weddingGREECE is becoming thedestination of choice foroverseas weddingsfollowing the success of hitfilm Mamma Mia, it hasbeen claimed.

According toprofessionals, since the bigscreen production of theglobal hit ABBA stage showcame out last summer,requests for weddings inGreece have gone throughthe roof.

Andreas Palikiras,marketing director of IonianWeddings, the Greek islandwedding specialists, said:“The start to the season this

year is our best yet.

“So many couples have seen the film or got the DVD for Christmasand now want to bring the Mamma Miaatmosphere to theirwedding in Greece.

“Some couples arelooking for a simple beachwedding, others dream ofhiring their own privateisland and recreating theMamma Mia setting withflickering lights, singing anddancing or even a weddingin an olive grove under thestars.”

Advertiser’s announcementAS MORE couples consider theenvironment when planning theirweddings, Vinati Gupta de Souzaoffers her tips on using eco-friendlystationery.� Use eco-friendly paper. There is alarge variety of eco-friendly recycledpaper to choose from for yourstationery.

Use handmade paper for a morenatural, earthy texture, or usemachine made recycled paper if youprefer a smooth, clean look.� Reduce the number of separateinserts.

Have one comprehensiveinformation card that provides

complete details of directions, maps,places to stay, dress code, gift listsand other additional information,which might be useful for guests.This helps to conserve paper.� Order a few spare invites andenvelopes.

Perhaps without a ‘reply by’ datefor those you may need to send cardsto a bit later.

This will help save energy inreprinting a few additional cards andwill also save you the hassle ofreordering additional invites later at ahigher cost.� Encourage people to send repliesvia email. If you must send replycards then make them postcard style– without an envelope.

How to be eco-friendly whenselecting your wedding stationery

Advertiser’s announcementAWARD-WINNING entertainment company5CATFish are bucking the current globaleconomic trend, starting 2009 with fourtimes more bookings than at the sametime in 2008.

Andy Lewis, the founder of 5CATFish,said the flood of work is due to constantlyimproving the quality of service to thecustomer and the fantastic response at theNational Wedding Show in October of lastyear. He said: “Although, for a smallbusiness the show is a substantial outlay,we find it’s one of the most lucrativeactivities we undertake in a year. We’vealso decided to maintain our prices at2008 levels, ensuring we maintain the best

product we can whilst recognising that weare facing tough economic times.”

5CATFish have given their website,www.5catfish.com a revamp withimproved access through to their MySpaceand Facebook pages, an up-to-date songlist and links to other premium suppliers.

Andy added: “Having first-class contactswithin the wedding supply industry isalways an added benefit to any visitors toour site. Not only can they find some greatmusic, but they can also find suggestionsto other like-minded companies offeringthe best services they can in theirrespective niche.”

New to the marketing effort in 2009 is abrochure that can be downloaded fromthe front page of the website.

Purr-fect start to theyear for 5CATFish

5CATFish

12 4/3/09 11:27 Page 1

weddingprofessionalalternative weddings 13

WHEN Valerie planned her ownwedding 11 years ago, she couldn’tfind what she needed for anauthentic medieval-themed event.

So leaving her job in the fitnessindustry behind, she launchedFantaysia Ltd to help other couplesgo back in time for their big day.

Valerie owns everything, fromthe tents down to the crockery, andhas contracted the same cateringcompany – Scotland-based KingBoar – for the last seven years.

She said: “The idea of a medievalwedding is primarily a femalefantasy as it’s so romantic andvisual and every woman wants theirknight in shining armour.

“The hardest part is gettingcouples to put their trust in mebecause I literally take care ofeverything, but with 40 weddingson my showreel they know what toexpect.

“And most people are surprisedby how relaxed a medievalwedding is compared to atraditional affair – there’s nocomparison and it’s a day theclients will never forget.”

An average wedding by Valeriewith 100 guests costs £10,000, butit all depends on what the clientwants. Valerie encourages them tospend as much as they can forextra authenticity, claiming it’s hardto make short-cuts with a medievaltheme.

She said: “A medieval wedding islike a big cake, so if you leave thechocolate icing out, it just won’t beright.”

Weddings can take place insideor outside, but a flat, well-drainedpiece of land is needed to pitchone of Fantaysia’s tents. Andalthough a city centre hotel can bedressed, it’s the tents that pull thewhole theme together.

Valerie – or Princess Valeria as sheis known to her clients – said thatsome guests can be apprehensivewhen it comes to dressing up, butmodern-looking people can ruinthe whole theme.

“It’s like walking into aconventional wedding dressed as amedieval knight – you will standout like a sore thumb and ruin thephotographs. I encourage couplesto insist the guests dress up ordon’t come at all.”

She added: “There has been agradual increase in couples wantinga medieval theme and its been veryrewarding building the companyup from nothing.

“Ninety-nine per cent ofenquiries I get are from womenattracted to the romance andindividuality of a medievalwedding. Everyone wants to be aprincess.”

Medieval-themed weddings are big business, particularly for planner Valerie Rowe-Hartley. Dominic Musgrave paid her a visit to talk princesses, spit roasts – and why dressing up is not justfor children ...

Medieval banquet is celebration focal pointA TYPICAL medieval-themed weddingwill take place after the couple havebeen legally married at a church orregister office.

They will make their entrance onhorseback and enjoy a welcome drinkbefore taking part in an official hand-

fasting ceremony – the way peopleused to get married.

The banquet is then the focal pointof the celebrations, with the bride andgroom seated in thrones on the toptable. Guests will eat a traditionalthree course meal consisting of a spit

roast, friar’s broth, farm breads andvegetables, followed by cheese, forestfruits and apple pie.

Each course is separated by a periodof entertainment, typically fromjesters, jugglers, minstrels, a falconrydisplay or a jousting match.

A mobile tavern provided byFantaysia serves medieval ales andwenches serve the guests with foodand drink.

Everyone is addressed as Lord andLady and many guests take onindividual characters for the day.

Valerie at her own medieval wedding and below: A wedding that Valerieorganised. Pictures: FantaysiaLtd

Valerie Rowe-Hartley

‘Everyonewants to bea princess’

‘The idea of amedieval wedding isprimarily a femalefantasy as it’s soromantic and visualand every womanwants their knight inshining armour’

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Credit crunchleads to risein marriagesBy Mary Ferguson

RECORD numbers of couples are due toget married in 2009 – and it’s all becauseof the credit crunch, it has been claimed.

A survey by Star Jewellers indicated thatmore people than ever are planning to gethitched this year and that much of that isdue to the recession.

A spokesman said: “The figures show usthat each and every recession brings withit a simultaneous increase in the marriagerate, so there is no reason why 2009should buck the trend.

“The onset of recession has sparked atrend of individuals staying home ratherthan going out in the evenings.Consequently, couples are spending moretime together and relationships aredeveloping more quickly, accelerating tothe point of engagement.”

Data from the Office for NationalStatistics shows that the national marriagerate historically increases significantlyaround periods of recession, as couplesseek increased social security during timesof financial uncertainty.

Julia Ascott, founder of Bath WeddingPlanner, told Wedding Professional: “Whilstit may be possible that there will be anupturn in couples wishing to marry thisyear they might think it is not possible for

them to have the wedding they want onthe budget that they can afford. This iswhere wedding planners can help – andwe need to make sure couples realisethat.”

An investigation by a nationalnewspaper found that some weddingvenues in the UK reported increases of upto 70 per cent in the frequency ofmarriage ceremonies compared to thesame time last year.

Julie Tooby, founder of Essentially You,said: “Celebrations are never going to goout of style and actually, it seems to bemore important to people to havesomething to look forward to when timesare tough.”

Siobhan Craven-Robins, a weddingplanner for 13 years added: “An increase inmarriage rates provides the perfectopportunity for wedding planners to makepeople aware of what they can do –however I also tell my clients theyshouldn’t hire me purely because theywant help saving money. There is muchmore to wedding planning than that.’� Are you expecting an increase inbusiness this year, or a downturn thatmirrors the economy? Send yourcomments to Mary Ferguson atmf@whpl.net or call 01226 734712.

A new bridal studio has opened atGretna Green in Scotland, aimingto encourage more couples tovisit the area for their wedding.The Joyce Young Collection hasopened its doors opposite theworld famous Old BlacksmithsShop in a joint venture betweenits owners Getna Green Groupand award winning dress designerJoyce Young.Brian Douglas, operations directorof Gretna Green Group said: “It is

our objective to offer the brideand groom everything they needfor their perfect day and the oneingredient missing was a weddingdress retailer. Joyce is a highlyacclaimed wedding dress designerand with that status it seemed aperfect match to introduce her tothis most romantic of weddingvenues.” � Joyce with two of her modelsPicture: Naomi HousePhotography

A hire company has beenlaunched that allowscouples to have real treesat their wedding –wherever it is held.Abor Verde, based in EastSussex, supply trees forindoor and outdoorceremonies and receptionsand sales manager LindaMallon said they are idealfor themed events.She added: “Nowadays,people’s awareness of thegreen issue is growing andto hire in living trees for awedding is increasing inpopularity.”

Wedding planners The Big Day Companycelebrated Valentines Day by hosting acompetition for a lucky couple to win theirservices for free.Midlands-based operators Dawn and Tina Rennie offered a package worth £2,000 toa couple getting married in 2009 or 2010, to

celebrate the success of the business.Dawn said: “As our business has madesignificant growth over the last two years, thecompetition is a way of sharing our successwith a lucky bride and groom – and spreadinga little happiness.”

Engaging ideaJEWELLERY chain H Samuel are offering a maleengagement ring for women willing to buck traditionand get down on one knee themselves.

The Tioro ring, which is made from titanium andbears a tiny diamond, is also becoming popular withthose that hope that getting a ring on their man's fingerbefore the big day will help keep him on the straightand narrow.

Natasha Gregory, buying controller for H Samuel,said: “UK women are no longer waiting until the manpops the question. We are equals in the work place andin relationships and we make our own decisions.

“Now this ring is a clear message to everyone that aman is to be married.”

Cost-cutting advice at fairWEDDING planner Siobhan Craven-Robins hostedLakeside Shopping Centre’s annual wedding fair, whichthis year took on a ‘credit crunch’ theme.

Taking place at the end of February, the show sawSiobhan offer cost-cutting advice through regularseminars. She also hosted the catwalk shows, which ranthroughout the weekend.

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weddingprofessionalmarquees and tents 15

BASED in Ilkley, West Yorkshire,Marygold Weddings have beenspecialising in marquee weddings for fiveyears.

Emma said: “Not everyone wants astately home with guest rooms andmarquee weddings are so much moreflexible.

“One of my favourite parts of the job is being creative and a marquee gives me so much freedom todo that.

“You are not restricted to someoneelse's choice of carpet or paintwork andyou literally have a blank canvas to workwith the couple on.”

Emma’s favourite sites to pitch amarquee are Broughton Hall andNewton Grange in Skipton – and fieldsin Ilkley that are rented from localfarmers.

“The farmers charge between £500 to£1000 to rent the land for a week andsome of the sites have amazingbackdrops and surroundings. This kindof land is ideal for couples on a lowerbudget.

“Marquees can create a really specialatmosphere and for the bride andgroom, it’s very special for them to seesomething that didn’t exist before,created especially for them.

“Of course that means they have toput more trust in you as a weddingplanner but I love to see the looks ontheir faces when I show them thefinished product.”

Emma has worked with Ilkley-basedYorkshire Marquees for years and said apopular interior layout is to curtain offthe reception and bar area while thewedding breakfast is taking place, thensurprise guests with a ‘reveal’ for theevening celebrations.

She said to do it right, a marqueewedding for 100 people will cost at least£20,000 and she regularly works withbudgets of £70,000.

“If you’re not attached to a venueclients can even bring their ownchampagne and drinks, saving a lot ofmoney.

“The smaller the wedding, the lessspace you will need to if a client is on alow budget, you could suggest a Caprimarquee and keep the decor to aminimum. Instead of a three course sit-down meal, you could have a BBQ orhog roast.”

Despite the benefits of a marqueewedding, they can create challenges forthe planners behind them.

“You have to think about every detailand make sure you use a reputable

company – especially if heating isinvolved. The weather can also be a risk.

“Wind-wise, marquees can withstandquite a lot but if you have connections –for example to a bar or toilet marquee –the connections can let water in.

“If there has been heavy rain you may

also need to think about getting guestsfrom A to B and put down a temporarysurface leading up to the marquee.”

Emma added: “Marquee weddingscreate a lot of work which is why theyoften cost clients more, but the endresult is worth it.”

Emma with previous clients

With 40 marquee weddings under her belt, wedding planner Emma Marygold knows a thing a twoabout temporary structures. Mary Ferguson reports.

Emma’s most memorable marqueewedding was for a bride who workedas an interior designer, so was veryspecific about what she wanted.Held at Newburgh Priory near York, astructure was created in the ruins ofthe old ballroom, where some windowsand walls were still intact – andnaturally decorated with creeping ivy.Emma said: “As there was no roof, we

put a temporary structure over the topand left the brickwork exposed.Unfortunately, because it rained, wehad to add in transparent windowwalls around the sides but it didn’tdetract from the ruins.”Inside the marquee a vintage themewas created with an eclectic mix ofparasols, lights, old crockery, foliageand lace.

WHEN it comes to marquee weddings,formal catering is out and casual buffetsare in.

Mark Fremantle, managing director ofOasis Specialist Tent Hire, said they areseeing bookings for more relaxed events,with soft and comfy furniture and laid-backfinger food.

He said: “Providing something differentis always important for clients butproviding something luxurious-looking for

a competitive price with great service is thepriority this year.”

He added: “Where tents are involved, itstempting for clients to save money onwhat are perceived to be added extras likeexpensive wooden flooring – details likethis can make or break an event.

“There’s a skill in helping clients tospend their money wisely inside a tightbudget.”

An interior designed by Oasis Specialist Tent Hire

Casual buffets rise in popularity

How Emma makes her marquee

15 4/3/09 11:30 Page 1

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By Mary Ferguson

WEDDING planning company Every Detailis heading in a new direction, with a newowner and two new franchisees.

Eight years after founding the business,Barbara Collins has sold to SandraNemorin-Noel, who is planning to expandthe brand through 2009.

Barbara said: “From its start in 2001, thebusiness has grown and I’m incrediblyproud of the franchise business model Iimplemented.

“Every Detail currently has six offices inthe UK, and I hope it will continue togrow. However, like most things, therecomes a time to move on. I passionatelystill believe in the Every Detail brand andthat’s why, when I began to feel the urgeto pursue new challenges, I wanted tomake sure that Every Detail lived on – andwould grow into bigger and betterthings.”

Barbara said she will continue deliveringwedding planner courses for the next year.

At the same time as the business wassold, it acquired two new franchisees –Sandra’s daughter Sabrina Nemorin-Noel,operating from Leeds, and Kat Dagon,based in Cambridge.

Sandra, a former consultant specialisingin business change, said: “I can see thatEvery Detail has potential and has been setup extremely well by Barbara.

“Wedding planning is a career I havealways been interested in and haveexperienced in some way through myorganisation of conferences andmanagement of small businesses.

“Barbara has handed over the businessat an exciting stage – we are firmlyestablished in the market and I am lookingat consolidating, ensuring our new officesdefine their market, reviewing ourmarketing strategy and eventuallyexpanding into the event market.”

Using Sabrina’s expertise in languages,Every Detail will also expand theirinvolvement in overseas weddings.

Sandra added: “We would like toexpand into a range of associated events,for example vow renewals. “We’ve alsolaunched a website aimed at the civilpartnership markets and would very muchlike to explore that market further.

“We are being realistic in the currenteconomic climate and ultimately it is ouraim at Every Detail to expand and becomea brand leader – and a name synonymouswith the perfect wedding day.” Barbara Collins

SABRINA Nemorin-Noel has launched anEvery Detail franchise in the north,working with couples across Yorkshire,Manchester the North East and Scotland.

Currently based in Leeds, she said shewill move to where the work is – and mostenquiries are coming from the Newcastlearea.

She said: “I’m especially interested indestination weddings as my degree is inItalian and I am also quite fluent in French,German and Spanish, meaning I wouldn’tneed to hire a translator. I’ve lived in Italyand travel Europe a lot, so have a goodknowledge of the way things work.”

Sabrina is currently finishing off herdegree, so said the franchise came alongat the perfect time.

“I’ve always wanted to be a wedding

planner and have lot of experienceorganising events as a volunteer.

“At 22, I’m a bit worried my age maygo against me but I have experience andenthusiasm and because I have no ties, Ican move around as I need to.”

Sabrina expects to work with localcouples as well as those from further afield,and said a lot of enquiries have come fromLondon-based couples who either grew upin the north, or want to take advantage ofthe countryside and scenery.

She added: “I’m not worried that I amlaunching the business in the middle of arecession. If couples are having to workmore then they have even less time toorganise things themselves and will needhelp to save money – which weddingplanners can do.”

Barbara wantssold businessto grow biggerand better ...

During her time with Every Detail, Barbara wasinvolved with 63 weddings, but said her mostmemorable was one held at Clearwell Caste inGloucester in May 2007.“Elaine and Ben’s wedding was three weeksbefore my son was born so I waddled around formost of the day.“They had so many wonderful ideas – like thepersonalised chocolate bars they used asinvitations – and a human statue that surprisedpeople throughout the day.”She added: “The photographer was quick – areal stickler of mine is slow photographers –and the speeches so emotional. It was just awonderful day.”

Sabrina Nemorin-Noel

Multi-lingual Sabrinaunworried by crunch

16 4/3/09 11:32 Page 1

weddingprofessionalasian weddings 17

ANISHA and Sebastian Worbs married in acivil ceremony at the Orangery at London’sHolland Park followed by a large receptionat Porchester Hall.

The aim with the ceremony was to keepthe look simple with white chairs and agreen flower display on the registrar’stable. Music was provided by a classiccellist.

Following the reception, guests movedoutside to the gardens and were treated tocanapes and drinks served by PartyIngredients. Canapes included miniYorkshire puddings with roast beef, Fetaand mint samosas, smoked salmon blinisand tempura selection.

Later, guests were served afternoon teaincluding scones, walnut and chocolatebrownies and fresh fruit tartlets. Guests

then travelled on a routemaster bus toPorchester Hall.

The bride is Sri Lankan and groom isGerman so they wanted to incorporateelements of both cultures in their weddingday in the catering, music andentertainment.

The wedding colours were green andwhite for the Orangery and gold, red andwhite for the reception venue. Music wasalso important for the groom so they had avariety of musicians providingentertainment throughout the day.

300 guests attended the weddingreception at Porchester Hall, which wastransformed into a stunning venue withwhite and gold chair covers, decoratedwith silk table runners, scented candlesand red rose petals scattered along the

long banquet tables. The reception started with the bride and

groom and their families walking into thevenue accompanied by Sri Lankandrummers and dancers.

This was followed by the Lighting of theLamp, a Sri Lankan tradition whichinvolved the bride and groom and familymembers lighting different sections of anoil lamp in order to unite the families.

Throughout the evening, guests wereentertained with various musiciansincluding a classical guitarist, steel drums,an accordionist, Sri Lankan musicians andfun entertainment from Bikini Beach Band.

And as a surprise, the bride’s motherarranged a special red and orange pedicabto whisk the couple away at the end of thenight.

EVENT caterers Mint Catering have goneinto partnership with Indian restaurantTamarind to offer high-end Indiancuisine for wedding receptions.

The team at Mint Catering will takeresponsibility for sales, marketing,staffing and event organisation.

General manager Martin Allen said:“In todays market, we constantly needto innovate and this will add a new

dimension to what we can offer ourclients.

“This partnership opens up manyexciting opportunities and one of ourfirst activities will be to target high-endAsian weddings, whether it be in a fivestar hotel or a unique London venue.”

Tamarind’s chief operating officerRajesh Suri added: “This fantasticcollaboration allows us to go into the

external catering field and focus on whatwe do best – the creation of out-of-this-world food and drink.

“The partnership also means that wecan form part of a comprehensivecatering offering.

“Our fine dining Indian cuisine will beavailable alongside European menus socustomers will be able to choose theirpreferred option.”

Partnership offers high-end Indian cuisine

Samantha Salisbury has been organising events for four years, specialising in Asian, Indian, Sri Lankanand multicultural weddings. She tells Wedding Professional about one of her most memorable events,helping a Sri Lankan bride and German groom tie the knot in style.

Catering: Party Ingredients and Golden PlatterEntertainment: Bikini Beach BandPA System: Matt Snowball MusicPhotographer: Christian DoyleTable and linen at Porchester Hall:Event Hire CompanyPedicab: BugBugs Media Ltd

Suppliers:

Couple’s differentcultures unite forwedding day

Samantha Salisbury

Wedding day:Anisha andSebastian, SriLankanmusicians, the‘lighting of thelamp’ and oneof theentertainers.

17 4/3/09 11:33 Page 1

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AT the beginning of each season I alwaysthink about the trends I saw the previousyear and what I am starting to work withfor the next. As usual, some of the 2008fashions are continuing, whilst others waneand new themes and ideas appear.

I realised many of us probably do thisand decided to ask our members for trendsthey are seeing too.

In terms of fashion the lovely vintage,lace covered dresses we saw last seasonstill prevail amongst my clients with aninflux of 1920s glamour. Interestingly I amseeing a glorious move towards the dresscode throughout being evening wear, withsumptuous full length gowns and gents inblack tie.

The buzz this creates amongst theguests, especially pre wedding, iscontagious – however it tends to go handin hand with a move away from invitingchildren, which again I saw a lot of in2008.

For bridesmaids, the glamorous eveninglook is of course stunning, particularly inblacks, whites and creams. I am also seeinga lot of sage green, eau de nil, silvers andgreys.

Kay Carey of Heading Up The Aisle toldme she is seeing clients trying to stretchtheir budgets by hiring their wedding dressand jewellery, and planner Victoria Jamessaid many grooms are going for traditionallounge suits or tails so that their photos

still look good in years to come.When it comes to decor, my clients are

becoming increasingly interested in richand varied fabrics, both in terms ofdecorating tables and for chill out areasand bars.

Clever use of lighting can play afundamental role in transforming a spaceand clients seem keener than ever toconsider some very different looks beforemaking a decision, particularly for thedancing.

Many of my recent consultations have adesire to marry later in the day, with fewerguests, so they can provide higher qualityfood and wine.

Ceremonies from 4pm fit well with the

move towards evening wear and also allowfor the wedding breakfast to be later, inmany cases avoiding the need for a fullevening buffet and using instead a cheesetower, which remains all the rage.

The recession may have had an effect ontrends, with some couples choosing tomarry a year or so later and otherstrimming the guest list, but the desire for abeautiful wedding day abides.

If I have noticed anything, it is thatsome couples who would normally bookme for full planning, are looking at thefinal few weeks instead – perhapssomething I need to consider doing moreof for a while. This is business and we allneed to move with the times.

Green is a popular colour for bridesmaids. Picture: Nikole Ramsey

Sandy Moretta,founder of TipTop Weddingsandmembershipdirector at theUK Alliance ofWeddingPlanners, sharesher trendpredictions forthe 2009season.

ALTHOUGH wedding spending has risensteadily over the past 15 years, the averagecost of a wedding is expected to go downa bit this year. And when you considerinflation, that means couples are gettingless for their dollar.

Every category of wedding supplier isaffected and probably more than the

actual cost of things, it is the uncertaintythat people feel over the economy thatmakes them cut back their spending.

However, the percentage of coupleswho use a wedding planner has risen toabout 15 per cent, and I expect thatnumber will hold steady.

Many of the couples who hire a

wedding consultant are more financiallysecure than average, and bridalconsumers in general have learned thata good consultant can help them makethe very most of their wedding budget.

Wedding professionals are seeingmore prospective clients who want tonegotiate prices. I don’t discount myfees, and I don’t recommend thatanyone who has set fair prices lowerthem.

Instead, hone your craft, polish yourprofessionalism and make sure that theproduct or service you offer is worthevery penny.

As I tell consultants in my seminars,what our clients really want is the bestvalue for their money, not necessarilythe lowest price. We must be preparedto demonstrate the advantages andbenefits, the value, of our product orservice.

It is my hope that couples will actsensibly in this economic downturn, thatthey will look at their own situationrealistically and have a wedding thatthey will not regret, whether because itwas beyond their means – leaving themsaddled with debt for years to come – orbecause they were pessimistic ratherthan realistic, skimping unnecessarily.� Jean Picard is state coordinator for theAssociation of Bridal Consultants inCalifornia.

As the effects of the credit crunch are felt all over the world, Americanwedding planner Jean Picard discusses how it is affecting the industry in hercountry.

Wedding planning market will hold steady

Jean Picard

Glamour and sage ‘all the rage’

18 4/3/09 11:34 Page 1

weddingprofessionalnews 19

THE winter meeting and networkingevent for the Association of BridalConsultants (ABC) took place at FawsleyHall in February.

Wedding planners and industrysuppliers gathered for a day ofnetworking and ideas-sharing at thenewly-refurbished wedding venue inNorthampton.

Hosted by Amanda Sherlock ofwedding planning company Giles

Sherlock Event Design, the meeting wasalso used to announce a newpartnership between the ABC andhoneymoon specialists Sandals.

The new deal allows ABC members toearn 12 per cent commission whenbooking honeymoon packages for theirclients – and if they build up enoughbookings, they can also earn a free tripto a Sandals resort for themselves.

Leah Marshall, business development

manager at Sandals, said: “We arehugely excited about our newpartnership with the ABC.

“The Sandals ABC Honeymoon andDestination Wedding Programme hasbeen extremely successful in the USAand we are looking forward to seeingthe results in the UK.

“All couples take honeymoons and the wedding industry is recessionproof.”Amanda Sherlock hosted the event

Sandals Grande St. Lucia

New partnership announcedat networking event

Advertiser’s announcementTHE Designer Wedding Show in Londonsaw the launch of The Favour Gallery’sbrand new 2009 collection of weddingfavours.

Traditional sugared almond andchocolate dragee wedding favours havebeen revamped into exciting new designs.

Gorgeous favour sachets now havestunning miniature flower favours attachedwith beautiful ribbons and the colour ofthe season, purple, is available for themajority of the fabulous designs.

There are some wonderful tropicalflowers in the collection too, such as thestunning Anturia and Libellula. Manycouples are choosing to get marriedabroad and these designs are provingextremely popular for these types ofweddings.

Not only are they easy to transport, butthey are stunning and are available in morethan 20 different colours.

This exciting array of favours revives thetradition of giving sugared almonds towedding guests, but in a whole new way.

Favour boxes are covered in high qualitylinen and moiré fabrics.

The favours are beautifully handmade in

Italy and the quality of the products issecond to none.

There is something for every taste andwith prices starting at just £1.60 for a highquality favour flower, even those workingto a tight budget can take advantage ofdesigner wedding favours.For more details visitwww.thefavourgallery.co.uk

Reviving tradition of favoursin an exciting new way

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LAURA Footner is the in-house wedding coordinator atWyboston Lakes and works with independent planners to helpmake the client’s day perfect.

One of her most memorable weddings at the venue was forclients Michael Thomas and Jennifer Morgan, whose familieswere attending from opposite ends of the country.

Executive chef Fergus Martin designed a three course menuthat drew elements from Scottish and Cornish cuisine andincluded Cornish crab salad with garden leaves and pan friedfillet of Aberdeen Angus steak.

Laura said: “The bride and groom allocated the majority ofthe budget to the catering, as both families enjoy sitting downand having good food together.”

The couple and their guests dined at The Willows restaurant ,where tables were scattered with red rose petals.

SET in 350 acres of beautiful countryside,The Willows at Wyboston Lakes ticks allthe boxes of even the most demandingwedding schedule.

Centrally located on theCambridgeshire/Bedfordshire border,adjacent to the A1, The Willows providesa private and exclusive venue that iseasily accessible by road, rail and air. It islicensed to hold civil ceremonies and islooking forward to holding its first civilpartnership in April this year.

With its enclosed courtyard garden, arestaurant that seats up to 200 guests, aseparate private lounge with well-stockedbar and dance floor area, comfortableensuite accommodation for guests andsecure parking for up to 220 cars all inone location, it is the ideal weddingvenue.

The venue’s team of internationalaward-winning chefs has created anexquisite selection of mouthwateringmenus and a range of drinks packages tosuit all tastes and pockets. These includea tempting assortment of receptioncanapés, a choice of superb dishes for athree course wedding breakfast togetherwith a children’s menu, and a variety of

delicious dishes to choose from for theevening reception.

If the couple would prefer to designtheir own menu, the executive chef willwork with them to create a unique menuspecifically tailored to their requirements.Once the menu is agreed, they areinvited to enjoy a full tasting of thewedding breakfast prior to the big day.

The Willows has 150 double, en-suitebedrooms overlooking the courtyardgarden and can offer early check-in forguests on the day of the wedding.

Their unbeatable prices starting from£55 per night for a double room and£65 for a family room – includingbreakfast – means that everyone canenjoy the day, and the bride and groomcan meet with their guests the nextmorning for breakfast.

If a couple want to extend theircelebrations, they can book WybostonLakes for a ‘wedding weekender’.

The bride and groom-to-be can jointhe venue on the Friday evening andenjoy playing a round of golf on the 18hole golf course, taking a dip in theindoor swimming pool, working out inthe fitness centre or pamper themselvesat the on-site beauty salon.

Dinner can be taken at The WaterfrontBrasserie, where couples will be spoilt forchoice with a tempting array of fresh,tasty dishes. They can then enjoybreakfast with their guests the morningafter the wedding.

A spokesperson for the venue said:“Wyboston Lakes has earned itself anenviable reputation for delivering superbhospitality. Combine this with ourexcellent range of facilities, outstandingcuisine, and our professional, yet friendlyand flexible approach and you have theperfect venue for the perfect day.”

Wyboston Lakes � The Perfect Venue for a Perfect Day

The Willows

A couple enjoy their day Wyboston Lakes

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