New Lytham St Annes based firm, Lancashire Wedding Planners, is confident of succeeding in a recession, because it seems that instead of postponing weddings in the credit crunch, many couples are bucking the trend and getting married to enjoy the feel-good factor of the celebration.
The firm, which works with a network of recognised suppliers across Lancashire, assists with planning, venue and supplier sourcing and co-ordination of the day. Advice on budget planning and management, as well as ways to ensure an affordable, yet memorable day is in high demand.
Mark Norton-Noon from Lancashire Wedding Planners says: “As the credit crunch settles in, it is forecast that 62% of couples are cutting their wedding budgets by an average of 32% during 2009. The impact of this is a change in trend and fashion surrounding the ideas of the wedding day. For instance, bridal dresses can be simpler with fewer extras such as lace and sequins; whilst bridesmaids’ dresses can be chosen with the intention of being reusable for galas or prom nights.
“There are many ways for couples to cut wedding costs without compromising the day itself. For instance, minimising the number of attendees for the service and wedding breakfast, allows a couple to do more for fewer guests, whilst everyone else can attend the evening proceedings. On the subject of invitations, it is acceptable to send invites via post but allow RSVPs via email. It saves money and often results in prompter replies.”
According to Mark, the most important skill as a wedding planner is the ability to relate to people: “In the initial consultation with the bride and groom, which can last between two to three hours, you have to be able to ascertain what they are looking for in their wedding and get a feel for their interests and styles so that this is represented in their wedding day plan. Multi-tasking, co-ordination, flexibility, diplomacy and design are all skills that go in hand with the role of a wedding planner.”
Lancashire Wedding Planners’ team includes a budget management specialist and project manager, all with experience in the hospitality industry. Lancashire Wedding Planners manages weddings throughout Lancashire and is a member of the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners (UKAWP).
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