On the day coordinator in Essex
On the day coordinator in Essex
Thought about hiring an Essex based on the day coordinator for your wedding?
Planning a wedding is an exhilarating journey filled with aspirations and endless to-do lists (oh those lists are never ending!) From selecting the perfect venue to coordinating with suppliers and finalising guest lists (and juggling the ones who haven’t replied!), every detail plays a crucial role in creating your dream day. Amidst the whirlwind of wedding preparations, my role of an on-the-day coordinator often gets overlooked. However, for engaged couples in the UK, especially those hosting their celebrations in diverse venues like stately homes or intimate marquee setups in Essex, having a dedicated on-the-day coordinator can be the key to a stress-free and unforgettable wedding experience (check out my testimonials if you don’t believe me).
I love Essex, with its picturesque landscapes, historic estates, and charming countryside, it serves as a captivating backdrop for weddings of all styles and sizes. Whether you're envisioning a grand affair in a regal stately home or an intimate gathering under the stars in a quaint garden marquee, my on-the-day coordinator service is the one for you as I can turn your vision into a seamless reality.
H&N contacted me after they realised the intricacies of managing a wedding in their parents/in-laws garden. They wanted to embrace the day and not get burdened with juggling suppliers, questions and any issues that may arise. Their main concern was being fully present with their guests and making sure all of their efforts paid off on the day, that’s where I stepped in to ensure everything went to plan.
Photo by Jason Little at a private marquee wedding in Essex.
What are the pros to hiring me as your wedding planner for an on the day coordination service?:
Expertise in Essex Venues: As your Essex on-the-day coordinator, I bring a wealth of local knowledge and expertise. I understand the intricacies of different wedding venues across the county, from historic manors to sprawling gardens. This allows me to ensure that every aspect of your wedding is perfectly tailored to its surroundings.
Seamless Coordination: On your wedding day, I'll be your point person, orchestrating every detail behind the scenes to ensure smooth transitions, seamless supplier coordination, and timely execution of all planned activities. This means you can relax and savour every moment without worrying about logistics.
Personalised Attention: Your wedding day should reflect your love story and unique personalities. I take the time to understand your vision, preferences, and priorities, translating them into personalised touches that elevate your experience.
Stress-Free Experience: By entrusting me with on-the-day coordination, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that someone experienced is managing the logistics. From handling all supplier communications to resolving last-minute hiccups, I'll ensure everything runs smoothly.
Emergency Preparedness: Despite meticulous planning, unforeseen circumstances can arise. Rest assured, I'm equipped to handle any challenges swiftly and effectively, ensuring disruptions are minimised.
Photo by Jason Little at a private marquee wedding in Essex
Investing in the services of an on-the-day coordinator like myself is a decision that promises immense returns in peace of mind, personalised attention, and flawless execution, as well as a professional shoulder for you to rest on. Whether you're exchanging vows in a majestic stately home or dancing the night away in a cosy marquee, my expertise ensures your wedding day unfolds seamlessly, allowing you to focus on celebrating your love and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Planning a destination wedding in the UK
How a UK Wedding Planner Can Turn Your Destination Wedding Dreams into Reality
How a UK Wedding Planner Can Turn Your Destination Wedding Dreams into Reality
Dreaming of tying the knot amidst the rolling green hills or bustling city of London in the UK? Whether you've always envisioned a fairy-tale castle wedding or a quaint British countryside affair, planning a destination wedding in the UK can be an adventure. But let's face it, orchestrating the perfect celebration from afar can feel like an endless task, hitting brick walls and frustration when it comes to speaking to vendors due to the time difference along with the complexities of juggling the budget and preparations. That's where a UK-based wedding planner comes in to save your sanity and ensure your big day goes off without a hitch.
Photo by Images by Anna at Butley Priory, Suffolk
So, why should you consider enlisting the help of a wedding planner on this side of the pond? Let's break it down!
Why Hire a UK Wedding Planner?
1. Navigating the British Bureaucracy Ah, bureaucracy, the universal language of paperwork and red tape. Planning a wedding in a foreign land means wading through a sea of permits, licenses, and legalities that can leave even the most organised couple feeling like they've stumbled into a maze. But fear not! Your trusty wedding planner is fluent in the language of British bureaucracy, adept at securing all the necessary documents with ease, leaving you free to focus on more important matters—like cake tasting!
Photo by Martin Beard at Hengrave Hall, Suffolk
2. Local Knowledge, Global Flair From the quaint charm of a Cotswolds village to the vibrant energy of London's bustling streets, the UK is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes and cultures. A UK-based wedding planner brings invaluable local knowledge to the table, helping you discover hidden gems and unique venues that perfectly reflect your personal style and vision. Whether you're craving a traditional English tea party or a contemporary urban bash, your planner will sprinkle their magic to ensure every detail is tailor-made to perfection.
3. Weather Woes? No Problem! Let's be real—British weather can be as unpredictable as a toddler's mood swings. But don't let a little rain dampen your spirits! A seasoned wedding planner knows how to weatherproof your celebration, whether it means arranging cosy indoor alternatives or providing stylish umbrellas for a romantic rainy-day photoshoot. After all, they say a wet knot is harder to untie, right?
4. Stress-Free Journey Planning a wedding is like embarking on a rollercoaster ride—with all the highs, lows, and occasional loop-de-loops. But fear not, your wedding planner is the ultimate co-pilot, guiding you through every twist and turn with grace and expertise. From wrangling vendors to managing timelines, they'll handle the nitty-gritty details so you can focus on savouring every moment of your journey to "I do."
5. Peace of Mind, Priceless Memories At the end of the day, a wedding isn't just about the flowers, the cake, or the fancy table settings—it's about creating memories that will last a lifetime. By entrusting your dreams to a UK-based wedding planner, you're not just investing in a flawless event; you're investing in peace of mind and priceless memories that you'll cherish for years to come. So sit back, relax, and let the magic unfold!
In conclusion, planning a destination wedding in the UK may seem like a daunting task, but with the right wedding planner by your side, it's a journey filled with excitement, fun, and peace of mind. So what are you waiting for? Let's make some UK wedding magic together!
Will venues negotiate on price?
How to save big on your dream wedding venue
Your wedding day is a momentous occasion, a celebration of love and commitment deserving of a venue that mirrors the grandeur of your dreams. While high-end venues often come with a hefty price tag, the good news is that couples can negotiate costs and create a magical experience without breaking the bank. In this blog, we'll explore the art of negotiation for luxury wedding venues and share tips on how to save money while planning the wedding of your dreams. Additionally, we'll discuss the invaluable role a wedding planner can play in navigating the high-stakes world of luxury weddings.
Photo by Sharon Cudworth at The Wilderness Reserve, Suffolk
Typically, venues will not simply discount their services - nor should they, prices have been set for a reason, however, as your go-to UK wedding planner, I’m here to offload my knowledge as well as give you the information you need to make sure you can achieve your dream wedding.
How to Negotiating with High-End Venues:
Do Your Homework: Before diving into negotiations, thoroughly research potential venues. Understand their pricing structures, any seasonal discounts, and the services they include. Having a clear understanding of the venue's offerings will empower you during negotiations.
Flexible Dates: Luxury venues often have peak and off-peak seasons. If you can be flexible with your wedding date, inquire about discounts for booking during less popular times. This flexibility can significantly impact your overall budget.
Bundle and Save: Many high-end venues offer packages that include catering, decor, and other services. Bundling services can often result in a more attractive overall price. Don't hesitate to ask about customised packages tailored to your specific needs.
Leverage Your Guest Count: Venues may be willing to negotiate based on the number of guests you're expecting. If you have a large guest list, explore whether the venue is willing to offer a discount or additional perks.
Be Transparent and Communicative: Honesty is key in negotiations. Be transparent about your budget and express your desire to make your dream wedding a reality. Some venues may be willing to work with you to accommodate your budget constraints.
Photo by Martin Beard at Hengrave Hall, Suffolk
So where do wedding planners come into the equation when it comes to saving money at your wedding venue:
Industry Insights: Wedding planners have extensive knowledge of the wedding industry, including venue pricing and negotiation tactics. Their insights can help you make informed decisions and secure the best deals.
Connections and Relationships: Established wedding planners often have strong relationships with high-end venues. Leveraging these connections can open doors to exclusive discounts and perks that may not be available to the public.
Time and Stress Savings: Planning a luxury wedding can be time-consuming and stressful. A wedding planner can alleviate much of this burden, allowing you to focus on enjoying the process rather than navigating the complexities of negotiations and logistics.
Budget Management: Wedding planners excel at budget management. They can help you allocate funds effectively, ensuring that every penny is maximized and well-spent. This expertise is invaluable when dealing with high-budget events.
Negotiating with high-end wedding venues requires finesse, but with the right approach, you can turn your dream wedding into a reality without draining your bank account. Remember to do your research, be transparent, and consider the benefits of hiring a wedding planner. With the right strategy and support, your luxury wedding can be both memorable and cost-effective. Happy planning!
Wedding trends for 2024
what 2024 trends should you be looking out for
Welcome to the wonderful world of weddings! If you're planning your big day in the UK for 2024, you're in for an exciting journey. While many top wedding suppliers may offer fantastic insights into the latest wedding trends, it's essential to remember that trends come and go. To help you navigate the world of 2024 wedding trends, I've put together a friendly and professional guide for UK-based couples. Let's explore the latest wedding trends while keeping your unique style and budget in mind.
Trend 1: Sustainable Celebrations - Vogue reminds us that sustainability is not just a trend, but a way of life. Sustainable weddings are gaining momentum in 2024. Couples are opting for eco-friendly venues, locally sourced flowers, and zero-waste décor. If you're environmentally conscious, consider incorporating these elements into your wedding. Not only will you make a positive impact, but you'll also stay on-trend.
Trend 2: Not following tradition - Whilst I believe history plays a huge part in how weddings are structured, I have seen traditions play a smaller and smaller role in the wedding day - couples no longer feel ‘obligated’ to do a bouquet toss, cut the cake or the task of the groom removing a garter from his wife’s leg with his hands or sometimes, teeth! (yes, this was a thing back in the day)
Trend 3: Minimalism - Less is definitely more for 2024 - previous brides and grooms are quickly establishing that there is more to your wedding day than spending thousands on details (unless you want to of course) but minimalistic chic is going to be huge in 2024
Trend 4: Fashion Forward - Fashion plays a significant role in wedding trends, and 2024 is no different. Brides particularly are embracing unconventional bridalwear. Whether it's coloured wedding dresses, jumpsuits, or stylish separates, the choice is yours. You don't have to stick to tradition; wear what makes you feel fabulous without breaking the bank.
Trend 5: Personalised Details - Your wedding should be a reflection of your unique love story. In 2024, personalised details are all the rage. Incorporate elements that showcase your personality and story, from custom invitations to personalised ‘love notes’ for your seating chart - this trend not only adds a personal touch but also ensures you make your guests feel included and loved.
Trend 6: Audio Books - Out with the handwritten book and in with the voice notes using these vintage phone like Calleo provide! They’ve not been around long enough to fully understand the pro’s and con’s but this is one trend I am getting on, and how lovely to be able to listen back to family and friends leaving heartfelt emotions on your big day - watch out for that one drunken friends message though; we all know one!
Trend 7 - Content Creators - I mean, how did we even live without them? They are down to your personal preference but finding a good content creator only enhances your day and don’t get me wrong, they are not there to replace the job of a photographer or videographer but they add an incredible amount of value to your day; especially if you are hot on social media, their little snippets of the day are perfect to flaunt on your TikTok or Instagram page like this one here from the wonderful Content for Brides.
Remember, these trends are merely guidelines. While they may be useful, they might not suit your unique style or budget. Here's some friendly advice to keep in mind:
Stay True to Yourself: Don't feel pressured to conform to trends if they don't resonate with your style and personality. Your wedding should be an authentic reflection of you as a couple.
Prioritise Your Budget: Weddings can quickly become costly affairs. Set a budget and stick to it. You can create a beautiful and memorable day without breaking the bank.
Seek Professional Guidance: Hiring a UK-based wedding planner can be a smart investment. They can help you navigate the latest trends, identify cost-effective solutions, and bring your vision to life.
As you prepare for your 2024 UK-based wedding, remember that trends come and go, but your love story is timeless. Take inspiration from the professionals insights but focus on what truly matters to you. Embrace the trends that resonate with your style, values, and budget, and let your wedding be a celebration of your unique love story. Happy planning!
A chic London wedding
Need help planning your London wedding?
Look no further than your Essex wedding planner of the Year 2023… Hayley from Amae Weddings & Events.
Are you dreaming of a wedding that exudes elegance and sophistication? Look no further than the bustling streets of London, where romance and charm intertwine to create the perfect backdrop for your special day. A chic London wedding is the epitome of glamour, with its iconic landmarks, grand venues, and timeless appeal. Whether you envision exchanging vows in a historic cathedral or celebrating your love in a stylish rooftop garden, London offers a plethora of options to make your wedding day truly unforgettable.
Imagine walking down the aisle in a stunning Victorian-era church, surrounded by breath-taking stained glass windows and ornate architecture. The soft glow of candlelight illuminates the aisle as you make your way towards your beloved, with the sound of a classical string quartet filling the air. Or picture saying "I do" in a stylish rooftop garden, with panoramic views of the city skyline as your backdrop. The modern elegance of the setting perfectly complements your chic wedding attire, and your guests are in awe of the breath-taking views as they raise their glasses to toast your love.
London is a city that captivates the hearts of couples from all over the world, and it's easy to see why. With its rich history, timeless beauty, and vibrant atmosphere, this cosmopolitan city offers the perfect setting for a chic and unforgettable wedding. So if you're ready to embark on a journey of love and celebration, join us as we delve into the world of a chic London wedding and discover the magic that awaits you.
K&T decided to choose the Buffini Chao deck as the perfect venue to host their family and friends who flew in all the way to London to help celebrate their wedding. The Buffini Chao deck offered a stunning and picturesque setting that perfectly captured the beauty of the occasion. Its elegant and spacious design allowed for ample room for their loved ones to gather and celebrate their special day.
With only weeks to go until the big day, the couple contacted me to step in and coordinate all the suppliers and run the day so that they could travel in from the States, stress free, sit back and relax, taking every little detail in.
Thank you to the ever so talented, Vogue recommended 2021, Emily Montay Photography who captured their day with an editorial flair and great eye for detail.
Looking for an award winning wedding planner in Essex?
WINNER OF BEST Wedding Planner in ESSEX 2023
When looking for a wedding planner or wedding coordinator in Essex, there is so much choice that you might not know where to start, it’s a minefield right?
Luckily for you, the folks over at the Essex Wedding Awards chose their planner of the year and guess what… it’s ME!
#donttakeyourselftooseriously
I understand that choosing your suppliers can be stressful, there’s a lot to choose from and also you don’t really know which ones are best to use, that’s where I come in. With a range of services available to suit your needs and budget, we work together closely to make sure that all of that hard work you have put into creating your dream wedding day, does not get missed - which I know for a fact is a couples biggest fear.
Let me talk you through my preparations for this award… it’s emotional!
I was due to find out if I was through to the finals by mid October so I had started thinking about booking time off to attend the awards ceremony (just in case I was lucky enough to be chosen) and I went through this awful emotional ping pong of ‘Ah, I’m not going to win anyway’ to ‘No! You DESERVE to win, you’ve got this!’ to ‘I’m definitely not going to win’ to manifesting good vibes and positive outcomes with daily mantras ‘You ARE going to win!’.
I even came across a TikTok that told me some extra good news was coming my way in November (as I’m sure 40,000,000 other people did too) but I still didn’t read too much into it. Anyway, I found out I was in the finals so it warranted a little shopping trip to find an outfit for this black tie event and I quickly found this stunning little number from Quiz for a bargain £39.99 - now I have no issues with the fact I am short but I did have to pay to get it shortened otherwise I’d have looked like a fish trying to get around, not a good look!
I then toyed with the idea of getting my hair and makeup booked in but honestly, I think I’d convinced myself I wasn’t going to win so what’s the point in spending even more money? I ended up doing my own and instantly regretted it as trying to do a smoky eye look when I’ve been mainly working from home for the last 3 years and living in my natural ‘shabby chic’ look was a challenge I can tell you, eyeshadow EVERYWHERE!
Anyway.. onto the night itself and I dragged my other half along (to be fair, he actually wanted to come and support me), he was convinced I was going to win and wanted to be there to see me celebrate (as well as enjoy a few cheeky pops of course!) Here he is looking rather delicious even if I do say so myself!
The time came for the ‘Wedding Planner of the Year’ category and I was lucky enough to be sat on the table with another local wedding planner, Hayley Jayne Weddings & Events. We were both so incredibly nervous but I think we helped each other through it all. Another lovely Wedding planner Louisa May who I know, was sat on the other side of the room unfortunately, it would have been great to have all sat together.
Anyway, we worked out that the cameraperson would stand near the winners table before the announcement was made and who could I see standing by ours?…. Mr Cameraman! Even then, I convinced myself they were there for the other Hayley and not me so when they read MY name out, I literally didn’t know where to look. I started crying and shaking instantly (drama Queen, I know) but I was absolutely gobsmacked. How I made it up onto the stage to collect my award I have no idea?! My next thought was ‘OMG I’ve not walked in heels for years, please don’t fall!!!’
After composing myself and getting lots of ‘well done’ hugs, we quickly headed to the bar to get only the finest prosecco available and we toasted to my new award! I even got an enquiry within 15 minutes but I think that was just good timing, that or word got around super-fast (we’ll go with the latter)!
This is me trying to look awesome and definitely not pulling it off, more like ‘I’ve had too much to drink’ pose or ‘who is going to help me up from here?!’
So there you have it, my adventures winning the 2023 category of Wedding Planner of the Year in Essex. I hope you enjoyed my little journey and if you feel like we are vibing and you want to talk further about me helping with your planning… get in touch HERE
Love, Hayley
(Essex Wedding Planner of the Year 2023)
P.s. I do cover the whole of the East of England too
Are wedding planning subscription boxes worth the money?
Are you missing out on THE most helpful advice whilst planning your wedding?
As a UK based wedding planner and owner of Amae Weddings & Events, I set up The Wedding Box as I found a huge gap in the market when it came to subscription boxes. Ask anyone who has bought a subscription box and they will tell you that they love the excitement of receiving a box, opening it up and seeing what’s inside. However on the flip side, a lot of Brides-to-be reported that some of the items within the boxes were not useful and would probably end up in the bin (sad face).
Of course finding a subscription box to suit your needs and wants is not an easy task and some Brides-to-be also reported spending quite a few months researching which box to buy for themselves. Some same-sex couples also reported not being able to find boxes tailored to them… fear not! The Wedding Box is here to help!
Of course, as a subscription box creator, it is almost impossible to provide items that you know, categorically 100% will be liked / used, everyone is different right? So when I include a gorgeous (IMO) Bride-to-be candle, how do I know that will be received with open arms (not literally, you might burn yourself)… the answer is, I don’t, however I have created The Wedding Box with that in mind, I try to make sure I include items that you will use or at least get some benefit from but what’s to stop you putting the things you are not jumping for joy with, to one side as a gift for a friend who just got engaged or is wedding planning themselves? Ta-dah!
The BEST thing about The Wedding Box is the fact that I personally tailor the advice and support in there based on what YOU need help with, so when you sign up, be that a one-off, 3 or 6 month box, you will get advice from an experienced wedding planner (Hi, that’s me!)
The outcome? Yes! Wedding Planning subscription boxes are definitely worth the money, The Wedding Box comes with an average content value of over £100.00 so you do get your moneys worth!! BUT.. you have to choose the right one for you so do your researching before committing to a subscription, or try the one off box first to see what you think.
Get your wedding planning subscription box delivered right to your door, every month with practical, useful, tailored advice and surprise goodies too! What’s not to love?
BUY YOUR BESPOKE WEDDING PLANNING SUBSCRIPTION BOX HERE!
Here's how you 'should' plan your wedding
Are you feeling overwhelmed with all the wedding planning information available? Mind. Blown!
Wedding blogs, wedding vlogs, wedding YouTubes, Facebook wedding planning groups, wedding downloads, wedding freebies, wedding venues, wedding etiquette…’Minefield’ is the one word that comes to mind when I think about everything that you as a couple have to go through to plan your big day. Lots of you asking ‘What should I do if…’ type of questions in the many social media groups available. Now don’t get me wrong, these are amazing resources if you have all the time in the world to then follow up on every bit of advice, great! I don’t know about you, but my time is precious, I am far from complaining but I have to meticulously plan my week whilst juggling 3.2 jobs and a family home, it is not easy and I feel your pain.
So what happens? You end up settling for a supplier you believe is right for you without really investing the time into verifying their skills and expertise or you end up taking the advice from someone who has had a completely different experience to you.
Whilst that advice is given with great intentions, I want to direct you to my Instagram page…. here it’s full of hints and tips from me and my many years in the industry. I receive messages regularly from followers who love my advice, regular videos as well as my honest approach to the industry. I encourage you to join me and get involved in my Instagram community, it’s full of wonderful. supportive and experienced suppliers who would jump at the chance to help you (minus all the ‘faff'’). My biggest hint? If you don’t want to follow me (absolutely fine, I won’t take offence), make sure you follow a reputable wedding planner, we have the best advice anyone could ever give you as we live and breath this industry.
See you over on Instagram, make sure you drop in and say hi!
Wedding Coordinator Vs Wedding Planner
What's the difference between a Wedding Planner & a Wedding Coordinator?
Both are invaluable to your planning process but join me as I discuss the benefits of both along with my 3 step guide as to whether you need a wedding planner.
What’s the difference between a Wedding Coordinator and a Wedding Planner?
Hiring a wedding planner can be seen as ‘so American’ but Wedding Planners always have and always will be a popular addition to your planning process. So join me as I talk about the difference between a coordinator and a planner and the benefits both bring to you.
Now, some of you may question the need for a wedding planner, if the venue is providing a coordinator in the cost of the package.
Wedding coordinators based at the venue are amazing, they know their venue inside out and have fantastic relationships with the venue team. They will have run numerous weddings at the venue and have a wealth of knowledge about what things do and don’t work well there. They will get in touch with you a few months before your wedding day and go through all of the details to do with the wedding day to ensure everything runs smoothly.
The following is in no way meant to take away from what a coordinator does (I’ve been one myself so I speak first hand) but I am simply pointing out the facts of the things they don’t do, that a Wedding Planner can*.
*Make sure you discuss exactly what’s included in your package with your planner/coordinator
Wedding Planners:
Can get involved from the very start of your planning process (the minute you are engaged)
Dedicates around 300 hours + to you and your day with the full coordination service
Helps create your whole vision, not just the wedding day itself
Creates mood boards and themes
Creates a budget plan and controls your finances
Vetting and liaising with all of your suppliers
Schedules all your meetings
Initiates difficult family conversations
Sets up your wedding website
Send, monitor and chase responses from your invitations
After being with you every step of the way, ensuring nothing gets missed on the day itself and that it all comes to fruition
So much more!
There are a lot of companies that advertise as wedding planners when in fact they are wedding stylists (the likes of companies that you hire accessories for your day from) but, some do offer a planning service also so make sure you check before committing if it is an actual wedding planner/coordinator that you are seeking .
Similarly, wedding planners offer coordination services. This is great if you are the sort of couple that wants to organise your wedding yourselves, but you want someone experienced there on the day itself to ensure everything runs smoothly and to make sure you and your hubby/wife are fully taken care of.
Wedding Planners are an invaluable investment to your planning process and take a considerable amount of pressure away from you. Your planning process should be fun, not stressful (hate that word!). So before you decide if a wedding planner is right for you, consider these 3 things:
Can you afford a planner? (most planners will actually save you money)
Do you have the time to invest into planning your wedding?
Will you need support with the logistics and formalities of wedding planning?
Don’t forget, I offer a complimentary consultation so will be more than happy to have an honest and frank discussion with you and if I feel you would not benefit from having a planner, I will recommend an alternative option.
Can’t wait to speak with you!
Contact Hayley.