HOT TOPIC Our experts answer your questions HAPPY PLANNING We’re newly engaged and both work full-time, should we hire a wedding planner? Meet the expert: Charlotte Thackeray is the founder of Charlotte Suzanne Weddings based in Oxfordshire. She has been managing, planning and organising events for more than 10 years and specialises in DIY weddings. Charlotte says: Getting engaged is a whirlwind! It’s such a special time, but couples suddenly find that people will have advice and opinions about what you should do. Sometimes, after booking a few suppliers, you might think ‘what next’ because, after all, planning a wedding isn’t something you do every day. For me, providing experience and advice is where a wedding planner is important, picking trusted suppliers, managing budgets and providing guidance based on experience. There are many different types of wedding planners and coordinators so it’s important to find one that works for you and who you get along with. As a planner who specialises in DIY weddings, I know that I’m not going to be the planner or coordinator for everyone. My couples tend to want to do a lot of it themselves, but want my advice and for me to check things over. Other planners will do everything if you’re particularly short on time and some will work with you over a condensed period. Charlotte Suzanne Weddings, 07398 930 766, www.charlottesuzanneweddings.co.uk www.yananovaphotography.com ALWAYS AND FOREVER We want to book a wedding singer to entertain our guests, who do you suggest? Meet the expert: Hayley Emma Otway is the singer and actor known as the Always & Forever Wedding Singer operating in the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, London and Bedfordshire areas. Highlights in her career have seen her perform on stage in London’s West End and at the Edinburgh Festival. Hayley says: I’m a soprano singer with the ability to sing alto and harmonies and I’m a considerate group performer, blending well with others to provide memorable, heartfelt and honest interpretations of songs. I can perform pop and disco hits, jazz and musical-inspired tracks, ballads and also classical music which is popular for weddings. I’m open to couples adding their own song choices and I guarantee the smooth booking and tailoring of your event. Always & Forever Wedding Singer – Hayley Emma Otway, 07886 385 799, www.hayleyotway.com http://www.katherineandhercamera.com/ 61 EXPERT ADVICE
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