The Rise Of The OUTDOOR CEREMONY.

Summer wedding flowers, and contemporary acrylic plinths for a beautiful outdoor wedding on the lawn at the breathtaking Yorkshire wedding venue

Holdsworth House.

Caught up in lockdown limitations we are still navigating our way through these exceptional times, but it seemed like the right time to share a common theme running through some of the recent requests that have landed in the inbox, and our latest advice on weddings as we live and work through the Covid-19 pandemic.

White wooden chairs and fabulous wedding florals.

Now more than ever planning for a celebration is something we are all looking forward to. Weddings, parties, ceremonies and events will all return, but they may not look like they used to do for quite sometime.

Huge flower balls by the incredibly talented River & Rose, line the aisle before taking centre stage as the wedding breakfast centrepieces.

How we envisage the future is very personal, and how we plan for a scaled back socially distant wedding will be one persons idea of the perfect day and another’s ultimate horror. We know you need vision and guidance to create events of the future, that you’ll be looking for the lead from your guests and your venue, and as we live in a constantly changing era we will continue to be a trusted space where you can turn for help and our thoughts on the current situation.

A handmade, exquisite English Country Garden wedding cake by Pretty Sugar Cake Company

As you can imagine we have quite a few questions for the government, such as, will there be a change in the laws, will the option to get married anywhere – as you currently can in Scotland – be introduced in Britain. This would be a welcome boost for the industry, whilst offering scope for couples to get married in their own garden, on a lake, or at a favourite beauty spot for instance.

Huge pink roses, and white pom poms of hydrangeas, paired with soft foliage are a winning combination for outdoor ceremonies.

Unsurprisingly the outdoor ceremony and wedding party are rising in popularity. A trend influenced by oversees weddings where tropical vibes and wall to wall sunshine are highly likely; always the ultimate appeal. And although we have seen UK venues adapt and compete over recent years, now is really the time for wedding venues to seduce us with their outdoor facilities to meet predicted demand.

Quiet alone time for the couple on the day is precious, scheduling portrait shots creates this perfect time – Emily shone in this incredible gown from the fabulous Dotty Bridal

Of course nothing could prepare any of us for the devastation Coronavirus has had if your wedding was planned for 2020, but the excitement landing in our inbox is helping us all look forward to creating extra special luxury outdoor weddings.

Gabriella wrote to us recently to ask ….

‘We’ve decided to postpone our wedding until next year and we are now looking to tie the knot at a woodland ceremony with an outdoor reception to follow. We’d like your help and guidance as we don’t really know where to start in terms of what we’ll need, how social distancing and guest numbers may impact our choices, and the challenges of outdoor events. Could we possibly discuss a checklist and ideas of things that are commonly overlooked when it comes to outdoor celebrations?”

So what flowers to have – we’ll work with you to design every detail of your wedding.

As outdoor ceremonies and receptions become more and more popular your choice of venue and location will come first. We will take advice on numbers and restrictions as lockdown eases, and follow closely government guidance, keeping you informed. We can tell you that it’s worth considering the logistics first, as well as checking you can come in on budget, all whilst keeping your friends and family happy and safe on the day.

Our top eleven questions are:

• do you need water, and electric
• is there enough space for you to hire in a large tent or marquee as a wet weather contingency and for catering for your guest numbers
• how many days will you have the venue or location available for set up and take down
• is the ground level
• is access and parking sufficient
• will you need to hire in bathroom and toilet facilities
• will your tables and chairs stand up to being positioned directly on the ground
• will your plan B cover hot as well as rainy weather, and possibly high winds, meeting the latest relevant government requirements
• will you require wedding professionals for set up and on the day management – On The Day Coordination is key to a stress free event –
• will your wedding vendors be required to wear PPE
• will you have mobile and internet reception

Beautiful bridal portraits are treasured lasting memories for generations to come.

Remembering your Plan B will need to consider all weather conditions and cover, permitted outdoor structures, access, food, flowers, decorations, photography, live music and entertainment. And whilst in the UK we often worry about the rain, if the sun is shining and temperatures rise this comes with its own challenges. With keeping drinks cold being the biggest, but wilting flowers and buzzy bees can also be a problem. Think footwear too, and practice your walk up the aisle. 

A seamless outdoor wedding anticipates all eventualities and takes months of careful planning. Take advice from a professional wedding planner and get your figures together before you book to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Your wedding is about doing things your way.

I believe there’s much awaited good news on the horizon for couples planning to marry in 2021 and beyond. Nothing elicits love and laughter, and treasured memory making like a family wedding, and it seems fitting following these unstable times. We live in hope that deliciously fabulous and glamorous celebrations are not too far off.

Stay safe, be kind, and do get in touch with your wedding questions

Pamella xxx

Natural, authentic wedding photography by the undeniably talented Amanda at Cream Photography

Wedding Disruption 2020

Pamella

COVID-19 Communication

You’ve read a lot of these I know, but with the current climate so uncertain and changing daily we wanted to share our advice, and an update about how to best tackle this difficult situation when planning the most memorable and important day of your lives together.

We have always believed in the power of love: In creating joy, in bringing people together. Our weddings are designed to enrich your hearts and minds, celebrating one of life’s truly magical moments. With coronavirus (COVID-19) declared a global pandemic, we are helping our clients, their guests, suppliers and the wider industry to manage the uncertainty, the worry – both emotionally and financially. Like you, we are making daily decisions as to how we can keep our couples, clients, and partners safe and healthy. Our commitment is to adhere to the W.H.O advice, and protocols advised by the government. The well-being of you, our clients and your safety is paramount, and we want to reassure you that health and safety is our absolute priority. We have introduced a number of measures to help prevent the spread of the virus, and for now these include holding virtual meetings where ever possible, and updating you via email and phone. In this extremely fast- moving situation we are following developments so we can adapt where necessary.

Staying Informed and Healthy: First and foremost, we care about everyone’s safety, and are closely monitoring the situation and guidance from the government website, and the World Health Organisation (WHO). Because the situation and policies are changing daily, we encourage everyone to stay informed and follow the recommendations of your local health authorities, but please always remember we are here for you and will happily give our best advice.

Still the best advice

Staying safe: No matter what your plans are, it’s worth repeating when you are advising your guests or team that the WHO’s advice for protecting yourself and others is still: Wash your hands frequently with soap and/or alcohol-based sanitisers; avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; cover your mouth or nose when you sneeze or cough; and maintain distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. Of course, if you have a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing yourself, seek medical attention.

Helping Our Clients: Postponing all our 2020 weddings has been heartbreaking, and we have been overwhelmed with the support in the industry as we have all worked together to ensure we have provided all our clients with the support they needed, and found solutions in all cases. Our focus will now be on helping couples and suppliers with the possibility of things changing at short notice. We will support everyone as new regulations and legal requirements are introduced that will need to be adhered to. Next year will be the year of epic celebrations, with wedding fever welcomed.Together we will find solutions and work arounds, allowing you to plan and make the necessary decisions more confidently.

Postponing your date; If you haven’t already and you are considering rearranging your date speak to your venue and discuss a number of future dates, these may include weekdays and Sundays. Flexibility will offer you the most choice and maybe secure all or most of your original wedding team. We are delighted that to date all our suppliers are offering flexibility in terms of postponement and fees. We suggest that before you confirm a new date with your venue and registrar or church, check availability with your wedding team, and should your suppliers not be available what their policy is. This is your special day and the industry as a whole never forget that the success of your wedding day is built on trusted relationships and exceptional service, they really are being as understanding as they can be, whilst managing their own concerns and financial worries. We recognise that these are uncertain times, and that not everyone has insurance, or can claim but please know we are here to support you in anyway we can. Get in touch, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask us anything! Advice is free, and so is support. We will do what we can to help, it’s what we do with so much love. Take care and happy planning Pamella xxx

Luxury Wedding Style

In need of an expert wedding professional?

Introducing The Wedding Planner Questionnaire 

Here to support you with our experience and professional planning, to calm your nerves, and ensure your vision of a perfect day does look spectacular and run smoothly. Follow the questionnaire below, and discover our guide to uncovering your true style.

Questionaire

• Wedding Venue
• Number of Day Guests
• Number of evening guests
• Number of children
• Timings for ceremony
• Location of ceremony 
• Timings for Wedding Breakfast
• Timings for Evening Reception
• Expected close of event
• Services you are considering to assist with your wedding – [please include all your suppliers and any already confirmed]
• Total wedding budget

please email the above to mywedding@pamelladunn.co.uk

When All You Have To Think About Is Seeing The Person You Love Most In The World

Finding My Wedding Style

Consider how you would like to feel on your wedding day, and what kind of experience you would like your guests to have. A relaxed family affair will have a very different vibe to a glamorous cocktail party, and a traditional ceremony in a breathtaking historic building would be planned very differently to say a festival wedding in the forest. And with so many styles, colours, venues, locations and themes influencing you it is easy to become overwhelmed and lose sight of what your marriage means to you. Discover your design and narrow down your brief by asking:

Our Top Five Wedding Planning Questions:

• Where would you like to get married?
• What would you like to wear; traditional or something completely different?
• What time of year will you choose?
• What atmosphere will you create?
• What will be your guests lasting memories?

Our Hearts Our Full As You Head To The Dance Floor

Blending, layering, designing, styling! All part of the creative process when you’re planning a wedding with us.

HOW TO MAX THE WEDDING BUDGET

Keep it simple, sophisticated, and timelessly elegant.

Every wedding tells a story, of love, a special connection between two people. It’s the joy and experience we love to share and what makes wedding planning magical. We know there’s the wedmin, logistics and family struggles, but you must always remember your wedding is about the love story ….

At Pamella Dunn Events we like to make dreams come true. Not in a clichéd fairytale way, but in a way where we take your desired vision and make it a reality. With a touch of glamour, of course. Although, there is always a happy ever after for our brides, grooms and other clients too. Lavish florals, exquisite event styling and design in luxury locations are our signature. We absolutely adore our clients and we treasure our special relationship. The gorgeous feedback we receive fills our hearts with joy and feeds our passion for excellence. 

Hear what Maria Staiano-Sharp had to say following her June 2017 wedding at Rudding Park in Yorkshire. “ Pamella is exceptional – our wedding morning went without a hitch and I genuinely think it was because of her. Her styling is also exquisite and our entrance hall was exactly as I imagined. THANK YOU for your military precision, organisation and creativity xxxx.”

Request your copy of the Pamella Dunn Wedding Planner and say hello to the team ….

Your Wedding Planning Begins Here

Wedding Design

As we prepare to launch the online Wedding Design Services we have looked at three very different venues, and share some of our expert styling advice. Whilst you can consult with your stylist to design your wedding decor that will compliment most venues, some designs work particularly well in certain locations.

Beautiful Barn Weddings

Rural barns can be huge spaces, and they are working well with some of the emerging trends which are varied and diverse, with an influence to suit every style. From dramatic tropical designs led by bold leaf stationery, and masses of glossy foliage, to the quiet calm of the Danish lifestyle craze Hygge. Easily translated the essence of calm can be introduced with rich warm fabrics, faux furs, and a sea of candles.

Our signature leafy foliage and candle lit statement top table.

Lighting is one of the key areas when first considering the overall barn style and design. Lighting is a great influencer on atmosphere, mood and ambiance taking a blank space from really fabulous, to ridiculously spectacular, and it’s a design feature we are happy to see appearing as a priority. Edison and festoon lighting are featuring alongside draping, whilst candles are a key trend when displayed in abundance both inside and outdoors. Consider decorating the aisle, ceremony, window sills and just about anywhere with magical candles in varying heights and vessels, it is a real winner when it comes to styling a truly magical barn wedding.

High fashion city life locations for the coolest of wedding vibes.

Contemporary City Chic Hotels

Stylish city chic weddings with marble and powdery hues of white and grey offer a serene, romantic and contemporary flavour. Where one huge oversized floral installation is a favourite, where it is definitely the bigger the better, with an abundant, unstructured and natural design. 

Living walls and floral backdrop add a luxe seriously horticultural vibe. And illuminated bars, lounge furniture can be used to create a club night chill out area for the after party.

Grand Stately Homes

Stately homes steeped in history create a magical wedding backdrop.

Clients considering stepping back in time who are enchanted by the twist on styling we have seen over the past few years, will fall in love with the magical setting of a period property. Country houses come to life once again as rustic gets a luxury touch, and vintage styling leans towards a glamorous Victorian feel that works perfectly in a historical setting.

Styling is definitely moving away from the traditional vintage, and moving towards the old Hollywood glamour. Flowers, flowers, and more flowers are must haves when it comes to stately home decor. The bigger the better with an abundant and lavish design, we adore the huge displays of seasonal home grown summer flowers.

The ballroom at Rise Hall was intoxicating as the air filled with the exquisite perfume from the huge flower ball centrepieces.

A Rise Hall three day weekend wedding with incredible high impact floral centrepieces.

From flowing foliage with trailing florals, loose just picked looks complimenting whimsical styling, it’s a natural feel in harmony with the sleek bohemian gowns that are emerging from the bridal designers. Sumptuous fabrics and textures are the perfect companion for the luxury personalised details. We adore the bespoke silk ribbons, hand dyed to coordinate with the clients colour palette, and monogramed napkins to add style to the place settings. Table linen also plays an increasingly important role in more traditional bespoke designs, with colour and fabrics transforming the overall mood and style. Look to the Dutch Masters, Victorian and other period dramas for ideas and inspiration..

Enjoy the design adventure as you plan your dream wedding, and if your looking for inspiration and expert design advice enquire about our online design services.

Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness Pamella x

My Wedding Business

At Pamella Dunn Events we like to make dreams come true. Not in a clichéd fairytale way but in a way where we take your desired vision and make it a reality. With a touch of glamour, of course. Although, there is always a happy ever after for our brides, grooms and other clients too.

We tend to talk about dreams coming true a lot in the wedding industry, in reference to the wedding day itself – when everything comes together to produce a fabulous result that kick-starts your long-term future. However, there’s another side to the industry where exactly the same thing happens… Business.

The My Wedding Business Course is perfect for anyone who has ever dreamed of working with weddings. It’s a business training day packed full of inspirational advice that helps bring everything you need together for a successful business, coaches you in order that you produce fabulous results for your clients, and kickstarts your long-term future as a budding entrepreneur. Alongside like-minded go-getters you will learn everything it takes to succeed in the glamorous world of ‘I do’s’.

Wedding planners, cake designers, wedding stationery businesses, florists, singers, luxury wedding venues, and wedding decor companies are just some of the industry leaders to have attended the My Wedding Business courses, seminars, workshops and retreats. We’ve travelled and hosted a luxury retreat in the inspiring design capital of Amsterdam, [where you can find one of our European offices,] shot incredible shoots in Lavender fields in the Cotswolds, and delivered an expert, interactive retreat sponsored by YSL at our favourite boutique wedding venue; Woodlands.

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The My Wedding Business Course is perfect for anyone who has ever dreamed of working with weddings. It’s a business training day packed full of inspirational advice that helps bring everything you need together for a successful business, coaches you in order that you produce fabulous results for your clients, and kickstarts your long-term future as a budding entrepreneur. Alongside like-minded go-getters you will learn everything it takes to succeed in the glamorous world of ‘I do’s’.

Wedding planners, cake designers, wedding stationery businesses, florists, singers, makeup artists, luxury wedding venues and wedding decor companies are just some of the industry leaders to have attended the My Wedding Business courses, seminars, workshops and retreats. We’ve travelled and hosted a luxury retreat in the inspiring design capital of Amsterdam, [where you can find one of our European offices,] shot incredible shoots in Lavender fields in the Cotswolds, and delivered an expert, interactive retreat sponsored by YSL at our favourite boutique wedding venue; Woodlands.

The course or exclusive private 1:1’s are an absolute must for anyone who has dreamed of owning a wedding business, those who already run a business but want to branch out into the world of weddings, and anyone who wants to up their wedding-game and aim for a whole new target market. Maybe you’re recently married and fell in love with a certain aspect of your wedding day that you’d now like to pursue as a career. Nothing great ever came from staying in our comfort zone so now’s the time to step out and strive for what you want. Run by the highly-acclaimed, award-winning wedding planner Pamella Dunn, you will leave the course with everything you need to hit the ground running.

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With a track-record in running an incredibly successful luxury wedding business and a background in coaching, Pamella knows just what it takes to make your business stand out as a market leader. The course covers everything you need to know from social media to styled photoshoots and you can also leave with a professional headshot to put straight on your website. [Contact us to enquire about the photo sessions and branding workshop.] Pamella’s little black book of the hottest wedding industry contacts means she’s extremely well-placed to suggest connections and help you network your way to the top of your game.

Former course attendees have gone on to successfully launch their businesses, connect and collaborate with similar businesses to produce applaudable results, and comfortably find their right target market to work with. Now it’s your turn… Whether you’ve got an idea for a business and want to make it happen, or you want to take your existing services to the next level then the My Wedding Business Course is exactly what you need. With the next course taking place in Leeds there is no time to waste. Book your place on the course today and start making those dreams come true.

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We love hearing from you …..

Images credits :

Amanda from Cream Photography

Soniya from Soniya Zeb Photography

My Wedding Business Training

My Wedding Business Training

At Pamella Dunn Events we like to make dreams come true. Not in a clichéd fairytale way but in a way where we take your desired vision and make it a reality. With a touch of glamour, of course. Although, there is always a happy ever after for our brides, grooms and other clients too.

Delegate Laura enjoying the photography workshop as Cream Photography work their magic ensuring everyone is comfortable in front of the camera

We tend to talk about dreams coming true a lot in the wedding industry, in reference to the wedding day itself – when everything comes together to produce a fabulous result that kick-starts your long-term future. However, there’s another side to the industry where exactly the same thing happens… Business.

A Specialist Workshop with Marquee Experts Village Farm Marquees

The My Wedding Business Course is perfect for anyone who has ever dreamed of working with weddings. It’s a day packed full of inspirational advice that helps bring everything you need together for a successful business, coaches you in order that you produce fabulous results for your clients, and kickstarts your long-term future as a budding entrepreneur. Alongside like-minded go-getters you will learn everything it takes to succeed in the glamorous world of ‘I do’s’.

Personal branding images and head shots are included on the one day course, here are Susanne from Beamsley Blooms business cards and marketing material

The course is an absolute must for anyone who has dreamed of owning a wedding business, those who already run a business but want to branch out into the world of weddings, and anyone who wants to up their wedding-game and aim for a whole new target market. Maybe you’re recently married and fell in love with a certain aspect of your wedding day that you’d now like to pursue as a career. Nothing great ever came from staying in our comfort zone so now’s the time to step out and strive for what you want. Run by the highly-acclaimed, award-winning wedding planner Pamella Dunn, you will leave the course with everything you need to hit the ground running, including a luxury gift bag full of exciting goodies.

Professional branding images are included for each delegate

With a track-record in running an incredibly successful luxury wedding business and a background in coaching, Pamella knows just what it takes to make your business stand out as a market leader. The course covers everything you need to know from social media to styled photoshoots and you’ll also leave with a professional headshot to put straight on your website. Pamella’s little black book of the hottest wedding industry contacts means she’s extremely well-placed to suggest connections and help you network your way to the top of your game.

Bridebook UK Award Winning Wedding Planner 2017 Pamella

Former course attendees have gone on to successfully launch their businesses, connect and collaborate with similar businesses to produce applaudable results, and comfortably find their right target market to work with. Now it’s your turn… Whether you’ve got an idea for a business and want to make it happen, or you want to take your existing services to the next level then the My Wedding Business Course is exactly what you need. With the next course taking place in Leeds on August 30th, followed by our London date on Friday September 22nd at the B.Loved Hive there is no time to waste. Book your place on the course today and start making those dreams come true.

A date for your diary August 30th 2017 My Wedding Business Course

Huge thanks to Charlotte Spain of Redamancy for this fabulous guest blog, I’m looking forward to meeting everyone. Also for those that missed our Instagram post we are excited to have opened up applications for this years internships. If you’d like apply, and we’d love you to, email over your CV and covering letter to pam@pamelladunn.co.uk we love hearing from you.

Best wishes

Pam x

Luxury Retreat Preview Woodlands Boutique Hotel Leeds

Our eagerly awaited preview to the International luxury retreats was last Sunday, it was a truly fabulous day and here Charlotte from award winning blog Redamancy shares all the fabulous details ….

A Champagne Reception – the perfect way to start a sunshiny Sunday

What do the words ‘luxury’ and ‘styling’ have in common? It’s a pretty straightforward answer; Pamella Dunn. Pam, or Pami to friends (which I am so lucky to be able to call her), has been stirring up styling sensations in the wedding industry for the last 7 years. I first met Pamella when I was given the enviable title of intern and brand ambassador, along with 6 other fabulous ladies, back in June 2016 and getting to know her and her business has been an absolute delight. The number one thing I have learnt? If Pam asks you to go on an adventure, you don’t even hesitate. It will be the best ride of your life.

Tall tropical floral designs made conversation easy across the banquet table

Ever since I first met Pam I knew that one of her dreams was to take off around the world, inspiring little wedding wannabes (and I use that in the nicest sense of the world, as I too was a wedding wannabe) with her sparkling style and creative coaching methods. I love it when people hustle for their dream above and beyond anything else, and so when Pam mentioned to me that she was putting on a Preview of the Luxury Styling Retreat in Leeds before it headed to SYDNEY (!!!) I was practically happy dancing around my kitchen. Actually, I was literally happy dancing around my kitchen. Would I like to assist in planning it? Boy, would I!

Place setting details were carefully considered

Cue excited emails passed back and forth between myself, Pam, and all-round wunderkind Ellie Kime, a brainstorming session, a very delightful meeting in Filmore and Union (still dreaming about that Pistachio Rose Latte) and lots of instagram promotion. Sunday 14th of May had certainly seemed like a long way off when we were planning it but as with all majorly exciting things it soon came around quickly!

Sponsors were featured on arrival surrounded by this showstopping organic balloon arch

The night before the event I couldn’t sleep. I know this sounds like a terribly clichéd thing to say but it’s true. Not even the thought of setting my alarm for 5:45am could dampen my spirits (I’m more of a 8:45 girl myself). The next morning at 6:37 – I’m always 7 minutes behind schedule, potential future clients look away now – I was in my car, downing coffee in world-record time, and hot-footing it along the motorway.

The gorgeous YSL consultants Steph and steph from Harvey Nichols leeds

I arrived at the beautiful Woodlands Hotel to find Pam doing what Pam does best – styling up a storm. It was a golden botanical haven, and the marquee styled to the nines really felt like a place where plans would be made and goals would be set. Exactly the type of place you want to be if you’ve got a hunger and passion for all things wedding biz. I immediately set to work helping recreate Pam’s vision, and as more of the LSRT (Luxury Styling Retreat Team) arrived it began to sink in that this was really happening.

Chloe and Javie catching up at the drinks reception

This event was all about style, so I’m going to have to go into lots of adoring detail and descriptions and you’re just going to have to bear with me! Gold sequin tablecloths bathed the banqueting table running down one length of the room, lined with chivari chairs standing proudly dressed in their sashes. Golden glass charger plates, luxe golden cutlery and gold-rimmed goblets from Whitehouse crockery delivered opulence at its very best. Leafy green tropical table centrepieces stood high on golden plinths and candles filled every available gap. Palms reinforced the botanical look and balloons from Swoon Balloons provided some luxury fun. Pam’s favourite detail from the event was the stunning name plaque hoops she’d had designed to sit above each keynote speaker’s chair and I have to say it was an inspired idea which really added something a little bit special. Sofas created a chill-out area (3 course fine-dining experiences can be tiring, you know) and the table lined with gift bags just made me want to squeal.

Tropical gold tablescape styling

By 10:00am setup was pretty much complete, which gave us half an hour before the guests were due to arrive. It was just enough time to revel in what Pam had created and take in the incredible atmosphere, which stayed with everyone for the rest of the day. During this time I met Kylie, the CEO of the Wedding Academy – with whom I completed my Advanced Diploma in Planning and Design – and Brand Manager for the Academy, Martha. After chatting with them for just 10 minutes I already felt totally inspired, so how the heck was I going to feel after the inspirational speeches?!

Kylie with wedding academy students past and present

There was no time to dwell on that though as I shot off to the conservatory to be on hand to greet guests when they arrived. Champagne, anyone? This little welcome soiree was made even better by Liz Keeting doing her thing, performing some of the top wedding songs to ever exist. L is for the way you look at me… O is for… “Omg that balloon arch looks incredible!” I said in my inside voice, because I did not want to drown out Liz’s beautiful voice for a single second. Claire from Swoon Balloons had created an amazing display of white and gold balloons that really set the tone for the day as soon as guests arrived. My favourite detail? The printed banner displaying all of the suppliers involved in the event, from the lovely Zoe at The Golden Letter who designed the most stunning stationery suite ever, to YSL who sponsored the gift bags. Yes, you read that correctly – Yves. Saint. Laurent. There were also these super gorge quotation cards on the welcome table, inscribed with motivational sayings to get everyone in the mood. “Work until you no longer have to introduce yourself” is my favourite quote of all time and I’m very happy to say it made the cut.

The amazing voice of Liz Keeting

After guests had enjoyed a little bit of bubbly in the sunshine, we all headed inside to commence the day. Liz, who was also acting as super-glam MC, had a special announcement for our guests. Hidden under 5 chairs were golden tickets that awarded the lucky recipient a free consultation with the lovely ladies from YSL in Harvey Nichols in Leeds, as well as a £50 voucher for a beauty makeover. What a prize, is what I thought when Pam told me, which was definitely echoed by the girls in the audience who threw themselves on the floor to check under chairs!

Helen Davies Curator at Sarah Beeny’s Rise Hall

Bums firmly back on seats, it was time for the speakers. First up, Helen Davies of Rise Hall. It sounds like an incredibly fancy title, and this lady deserves every single bit of it. ‘H’ is for Helen, but it’s also for Hustle and she has this in abundance. Helen started her own wedding planning company, The Wedding Concierge, 5 years ago. Within 12 months, Helen had been approached by Sarah Beeny (yes, the very one) who asked her to take over the wedding side of things at Rise Hall, which up until this point had been pretty poor, and turn it into a wedding venue of dreams. Helen was unsure at first, as anyone would be, but six days later she moved into Rise Hall with just a computer and a suitcase. What she has accomplished is quite frankly astonishing, or it would be if it wasn’t the result of sheer graft and determination. Because that’s the real reason Rise Hall is now a top wedding venue and hotel, hosting around 40 weddings a year – Helen quite simply worked her arse off. Her talk provided inspiration in bucket-loads and you could tell there was a buzz amongst the guests once she’d finished.

Keynote speakers Helen Davies and Anita Massarella

Next up, couture dress designer Anita Massarella. Now, let me tell you, this woman has a wicked sense of humour! – she had us all in absolute stitches! She’s a fantastic speaker and storyteller, and you want her to keep reeling off amazing anecdotes all day! She happened to mention that she had designed a wardrobe for Margaret Thatcher and I swear every single jaw in the audience dropped. Imagine being able to say that?! Anita also brought along some of her stunning dresses, and it’s not hard for one second to see why people pay the prices they do for Anita’s designs. To put it simply – they are bloody gorgeous! Anita is one of the most focussed and driven people you could hope to meet, and I’m very glad I got the chance.

Haute Couture designer Anita Massarella

Kylie Carlson, Director and Founder of The Wedding Academy rounded up the inspirational talks. I was really intrigued to hear Kylie speak because I’d already heard what a charismatic and engaging speaker she is, and she did not disappoint. I even lent over to Pam during Kylie’s talk to comment on what a ‘ball-buster’ she is, because when Kylie sets her mind to something – she achieves it. She doesn’t let anything stand in her way, and if there is an obstacle of some sort then she quickly susses out the most efficient way around it and achieves her goal. Which is why it’s not hard to see why The Wedding Academy has received the international acclaim it has. With Kylie at the helm how could it have achieved anything less?

Academy CEO Kylie Carlson with academy students past and present

That rounded up the morning’s events, and as the guests seated themselves at the table for lunch, the suppliers quickly headed off to the bar for a well-deserved glass of vino and a bit of a chin-wag. You just can’t beat it on a summer’s day! I did ask the guests how they enjoyed their food though, and I was met with lots of faces that resembled the heart-eyed emoji. However, with this being an industry event, it’s safe to say that this bunch of lovelies enjoyed the networking opportunity just as much as the food!

Woman in business doing what they do best – networking with a glass of champagne in hand

The afternoon kicked back off with a floral styling demonstration, from florist support on the event – Jade from Flowers By Jade. I think the guests were a bit disbelieving when it was explained to them that Jade was going to demonstrate how they could recreate a very similar centrepiece to those on display, at home, however her easy way of explaining things made us all realise that it’s actually possible. That’s the great thing about Jade; she’s down-to-earth, she’s bubbly and she’s very approachable. I find flowers quite daunting, because there are so many different types and I can never remember their names let alone their appropriate seasons. But Jade put us all at ease with her demonstration, and then it was time for everyone to try out these tips and tricks by styling their own greenery display in a gorgeous white vase. Bonus – they got to take it home too. And there were some absolutely fabulous creations!

Tall centrepiece tropical florals

Once everyone had arranged their own floral display, and after a very inspirational note to end on from the woman herself – Pam, it was time for mojitos and a dessert table selection to wind down the afternoon. One way to move 24 women into another room fast is to mention ‘cocktails and cake’, just FYI. It was so lovely to see everyone chatting to the people who they’d met during the day, swapping Instagram handles and friending each other on Facebook, especially as many of them had turned up alone without knowing anyone else.

Fabulous wedding industry professionals, L-R Ella, Katie, Louise and Laura.

I couldn’t believe how fast the day had flown by when everyone started coming to say thank you and goodbye, laden with the luxury goody bags stuffed full of treats. I met some truly wonderful people who I know I will stay in touch with, and it was definitely a sentiment that I could see a lot of people shared. There was such a positive tingle in the air come 4:00pm that day. It’s like when you’re little and you go to a children’s party – you’ve had the best time playing with all of your friends and you’re so chock-full of sugar that you genuinely feel that life is better than it ever has been, and you can’t wait for tomorrow. That’s the feeling that the Luxury Stylist Retreat gave me. And with a conclusion like that, you can’t possibly tell me that you don’t want to come to Sydney and do it with us all over again? I’ll see you down under. G’day Mate.

A fabulous day and a wonderful article, thank you Charlotte. I’ll finish with the highlights from the day by hugely talented photographer Soniya Zeb, including the super stylish gold foil stationery suite from The Golden Letter, gold chargers, tableware and glassware from luxury event hire company Whitehouse Crockery, all styled to perfection by Rebecca from Pop Up Weddings and Charlotte of course from Redamancy. 

Soon to follow, a fabulous film from Ash at To Have And To Hold Films

A very warm welcome for all the guests at the champagne drinks reception

Sunday sunshine networking

Luxe tableware place setting, with luxury gold foil stationery and gold glass chargers

Candle lit details on the mirrored gold tablescape

Keynote speakers Kylie Carlson, Helen Davies, and Anita Massarella

Bride to be and her gorgeous Mum

Luxury Retreat guests L-R Chloe, Javie and Dee

Exquisite gowns from Anita Massarella

There was a wonderful buzz in the room as speakers shared inspirational stories

Lucky winners of the 5 golden tickets

Mini bouquets and vases for the afternoons guest Style Challenge

Banquet tablescape and chiffon drop chair sashes

Hello Love rose gold balloons decorate the marquee wall

hello – love balloons from Swoon Balloons

 

Luxury chiffon drop and diamante tie chair detail

Thank you gifts for the wonderful support team

Pamella Dunn finishing the final styling

Pamella Dunn Luxury Wedding Planner, wedding business trainer and mentor

 

All props available to hire from My Wedding Hire email pam@pamelladunn.co.uk or call 07900 216132

 

Luxury Wedding Retreat Preview

If you are planning your wedding, in the industry, a lover of fashion, style and celebrating opportunity and have not yet heard about the Luxury Wedding Retreat Preview event happening in Leeds on Sunday May 14th 2017 you are going to be just a little bit excited to learn ……. The event is an introduction to three day retreats and styling sessions planned in exotic locations around the globe. To share this one day event with you is a dream come true. It’s a luxury day that delights the senses in every way, and with Yves Saint Laurent sponsoring the event and provided luxury gift bags I’m ridiculously excited about everything we have planned for you.

YSL Harvey Nichols Leeds will be sharing with you fabulous makeup and beauty advice on the day

The Luxury Retreat Preview launches at Woodlands Boutique Hotel Leeds on Sunday May 14th 2017 opening with a sparkling champagne reception. The day is proudly sponsored by Yves Saint Laurent and with an itinerary of keynote speakers, couture fashion, a fabulous flower style challenge, cocktails and fine dining, it is an exclusive date for every fashionistas diary. Curious? Let me introduce you to a fabulous line up of keynote speakers; Anita Massarella, Kylie Carlson and Helen Davies.

Leeds couture designer Anita Massarella

Kylie Carlson CEO at The Academy Of Wedding And Event Planning

Helen Davies curator of Exclusive use wedding venue Rise Hall

Proudly sponsored by Yves saint Laurent and luxury London stationer The Golden Letter a ticket will get you behind the scenes access to the hottest UK Sunday soiree before the retreats go international. Join us at this exclusive retreat and discover the art of couture fashion and beauty advice, experience unforgettable flowers and hear how looking after yourself and living the dream go hand in hand.

YSL

Reserve your seat today for just £99 plus booking fee here and look out for your invitation coming in the post, there will be 5 lucky winners receiving VIP golden tickets who will take home fabulous prizes on the day.

You can enjoy relaxing after the event and experience the hotel facilities with accommodation available to book online from an amazing £69 per room per night B&B.

Hold the front page, this girl needs no introduction; she’s going to make headlines …

Introducing Pamella Dunn Brand Ambassador Ellie Of Ellie Kime Weddings

Day Seven:

Hiya! I’m Ellie, from Ellie Kime. As you may have guessed, my wedding business is, at the heart of it all, me. My unbridled eagerness, my passion for making dreams come true, my magpie tendencies for anything remotely shiny, and my penchant for making conversation and connections with the industry’s best…all of these culminate in my wedding planning. Alongside a (terribly chosen) philosophy degree in the Smoke, I’ve been gaining experience in the industry for years: working as an events coordinator, interning under the wonderful Pamella Dunn, working for the most incredible wedding blog and network And So To Wed, and assisting with the dreamy A Most Curious Wedding Fair.

Meet the gorgeous Ellie Kime

I’m also one of the recommended wedding planners at the beautiful Deighton Lodge, just outside York. This inimitable experience, coupled with my trademark enthusiasm and creative flair, means I want to take the wedding world by storm. In fact, positive mental attitude: I’m going to take the wedding world by storm.

Creative wedding design and decor by Ellie

Whether you’re a bride looking for someone who you can be confident in entrusting with organisation and styling of your big day, or as an industry member looking for someone who is a perfect fit for your next vision, I’m your gal. It’s all about making a connection, whether it’s with your perfect idea of how your entire day should run start to finish, how your venue will match your Pinterest board, or how to find the suppliers who will be as excited about your day as you are (and I am!). I live, breathe and dream weddings and happiness, and am regularly on the hunt for more adjectives because there’s only so many times you can describe something as gorgeous. Even though most things in the wedding world are gorgeous. We’re lucky like that!

Deighton Lodge Shoot

First stop: graduation. Next stop: the wedding world with Ellie Kime Weddings …

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Fine Art Wedding Day Styling Inspiration

Bridal Portrait on the terrace at Dunsley Hall Country House Hotel Sandsend

Part two of this fabulous coastal fine art shoot takes us on to the terrace at Dunsley Hall Country House Hotel, along the meandering paths and across to the meadows and orchards. This wedding venue really does have it all. Its coastal location, exclusive use and boutique bedrooms are just beautiful, but it’s the food that will really blow you away. Fine dining, fine wine and an after dinner experience like no other.

A sweetheart table in the orchard

A gentle sea breeze catches the luxe velvet tablecloth in this romantic orchard setting. Moments of tranquility and calm on your wedding day are to be treasured. Making a little time in your timeline is a luxury I know but so worth it.

Peony and eucalyptus wedding table centrepiece

Choosing your tablescape decor is really personal and sometimes just a pretty vintage urn spilling over with just picked eucalyptus and the dreamiest white peony is perfect.

Embroidered napkins, luxe danish velvet ribbons and bespoke stationery

Chalky grey place setting details add sophisticated style to your tablescape. Personal details are memorable and will charm your guests. Thoughtful elements can be small and have a big impact, this is where you can really make your day unique, reflecting your love story.

Exploring the grounds at Dunsley Hall Country House Hotel

Follow the pretty paths around the stunning grounds, and explore the wonderful locations for photographs. At every turn and around every corner is a picture perfect location at Dunsley.

Original doorways and gateways are my favourite

Hidden doorways and original features are perfect photography backdrops. I absolutely love this bridal image with our natural white lilac and eucalyptus bouquet. The fragrance was heavenly.

Outdoor styling details

Simple styling on the stone steps adds timeless elegance to your photographs, using your bouquet and some of your decor will give continuity to your imagery.

Outdoor shots of the wedding cake

Be brave and take your wedding cake outside. Nestled alongside your bouquet and with pretty styling details these are the memories you will treasure forever. Hours of planning every element will be captured on film for you to enjoy.

Dunsley Hall Country House Hotel Sandsend Whitby North Yorkshire

This shoot fills me with joy, it’s why I do what I do, it’s for you …….

I hope you love the images and wedding inspiration as much as I do, check back soon for some exciting news or have a sneaky peek on our social media!

Credits:

Photography – Georgina Harrison Photography

Bridal Boutique – The Little Pearl Bridal Boutique

Hair and Makeup Artist – Catherine Elizabeth

Styling and Wedding Flowers –Pamella Dunn

Wedding Cake – Blush Cake company

Stationery – Noble Fine Art

Venue – Dunsley Hall Country House Hotel