As we dive back into our routines, I’m excited to kick off the year with a focus on precision planning. To help us get started, I’m thrilled to be joined by Laura from The Budget Bride Company, who’s sharing her expertise and valuable tools for making the most of your day. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being organized and in control, which is precisely where Laura comes in. And, as a special treat, there’s an exclusive offer waiting for you…
Hi Laura, could you firstly tell WWW readers a little bit about you?
As founder and wedding planner at The Budget Bride Company, I’m Laura, a self-proclaimed wedding enthusiast dedicated to helping brides bring their dream weddings to life without breaking the bank. As a mother of one-year-old Isla, aka the little tinker, and fiancée to John for 13 years, I’ve had my fair share of experience in planning and celebrating special occasions. With a passion for capturing memories that last a lifetime, I’m thrilled to have collaborated with talented photographer Danielle Mobbs, whose work is featured alongside mine.
What do you love and dislike about your job?
As a seasoned events industry expert, I take pride in helping brides stay on top of their wedding plans and alleviate the overwhelming stress that often accompanies the process. My background in managing high-profile events for esteemed clients like Aston Martin, the MOD, and BP has instilled in me an unparalleled sense of calm, allowing me to effectively tackle any challenges that arise. I thrive in this role, providing my couples with a seamless planning experience.On the other hand, as a self-employed individual, I must confess that I’m not too keen on the administrative tasks that come with running my own business. Give me a wedding to plan any day! The thrill of bringing a couple’s vision to life far surpasses the tedium of filing and accounting.
How did you get into the wedding industry?
With years of experience in corporate events, I had always dreamed of striking out on my own, but the idea of running a traditional events agency never truly resonated with me. As a creative who thrives in personal connections, wedding planning emerged as a natural evolution for me – and I’m thrilled to say that I’ve never regretted making the leap!
Tell us about your typical working day.
My typical day begins at 6:15 am, when I rise to take care of my daughter Isla and prepare her for nursery. After dropping her off, I head back to my home office where I dedicate time to crafting bespoke Wedding Planning Programmes or offering personalized Wedding Planning Services to my clients. A significant portion of my work involves scouting out ideal wedding venues and suppliers, as well as providing theme styling inspiration, budgeting guidance, and timeline management support. The diversity of my workload is a bonus, as each client’s unique needs ensure that no two days are ever alike, keeping my work engaging and exciting.
If you could choose another role in the wedding industry what would it be?
As a self-proclaimed planner, it’s almost instinctive for me to imagine myself in roles that complement my meticulous nature. However, I believe being a florist wouldn’t suit me well. The thought of discussing venue details and overall planning with the bride would likely overshadow any creative endeavors I might embark upon. My planner instincts would kick in, and before long, I’d be asking about table settings and catering options instead of focusing on crafting stunning arrangements for the big day!
What do you aim to achieve for your clients?
As a wedding planner, my ultimate goal is to empower couples with the tools and inspiration they need to create an unforgettable celebration within their means. I take pride in knowing that I’ve succeeded when brides and grooms are thrilled with every aspect of their special day – from finding the perfect venue to selecting the ideal cake, and everything in between – without ever feeling overwhelmed or anxious throughout the planning process.
What style is your work?
With a keen eye for detail and a passion for making every couple’s special day unforgettable, I strive to deliver breathtaking weddings within budget constraints. My approach is built on the foundation of positivity and the conviction that with determination and creativity, any dream can become a reality. In essence, my wedding planning style is characterized by three core values: inspired by the couples’ unique stories, beautiful in its execution, and confident in its ability to exceed expectations.
Could you tell us some information about your packages/prices?
For couples seeking a tailored approach to their big day, I provide a comprehensive range of wedding planning services to cater to diverse budgets. One popular option is my DIY Wedding Planner program, which offers the guidance and expertise of a professional planner at an affordable price. This self-directed package includes step-by-step guides, handouts, workbooks, videos, and checklists, empowering couples to take control of their wedding planning process while keeping costs in check. For those on a tighter budget, this option is an attractive alternative to hiring separate wedding planning services.In addition to the DIY program, I also offer specialized services such as Wedding Venue Finding and Supplier Sourcing. Furthermore, my Kick Start Wedding Planning Session provides an invaluable one-hour consultation, during which we create a customized wedding planning timeline and budget. This expert guidance sets the stage for a stress-free and enjoyable wedding planning experience.
Are you seeing any trends for the year ahead?
As the wedding industry evolves, it’s the small, quirky details that are really making a statement. I’ve recently come across some stunning ombre manicures that add a touch of elegance to the big day. The trend towards ‘different’ takes on the traditional wedding dress is also gaining momentum – House of Ollichon’s bridal jumpsuits, for instance, offer a fresh alternative. What’s more, couples are feeling empowered to express their unique personalities on their special day. 2016 promises to be a year of character-filled weddings, with equal parts tradition and innovation.
Can you give us a teaser about what you are working on now?
I’m thrilled to introduce my new DIY Wedding Planner, designed specifically for brides planning their dream wedding on a budget. Building on my expertise as a wedding planner, I’ve packed this comprehensive guide with valuable insights, practical tips, and insider knowledge, making it an invaluable resource for any bride looking to save time and money by taking control of her own wedding planning process.
How can we get in touch with you?
To learn more about my wedding planning services, visit www.budgetbridecompany.com. You can also connect with me on social media at Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/The-Budget-Bride-Company-306611229359598/) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/budgetbrideco). I’m grateful to Laura for sharing her experiences and insights about my services, as well as the exclusive special offer available only to our website readers. This post is sponsored.