Names: Leon & Evelyn from Manchester.

Month: Sept 2021 - Warm but patches of light rain.

Venue: Townhead Estate

Florist: Free Range floristry

Decorations: Emma Jane Events

Band: Back Chat Brass

Catering: Friday - Dudes Dough

Catering: Saturday and Sunday: Karen Rhodes Catering

Photographer: Jo Greenfield

DJ: Daniel Nash

In Brief: Its always a pleasure to be at a site like this but even better when you can feel the glow between a couple. My role was being a sounding board to their lovely ideas and taking the strain when it got stressful. We had a laugh when planning, the day was wonderful and it featured my first ceremony in the rain! With helpers (thanks to the Karen Rhodes team!) drying chairs just before bums sat and a heap of umbrellas, the beautiful Bride walked down the aisle in drizzle. Gloriously though, when she reached the end and her man, the sun shone! A proper ‘tah dar’ moment!!

Kind words from the couple:

Why did you look for a planner?

We were really looking for that reassurance that things we liked and wanted were realistic and not terrible ideas! Having had very little experience of event planning or even attending weddings having that sense check really put our minds at ease.

What made you decide on Annabel?

Annabel had been recommended by nearly every supplier we spoke to in the Lake district so it wasn’t a hard choice at all! At our first meeting, although it was over zoom Annabel instantly gave us confidence in her and ourselves.

What difference does it make having a planner support you during planning?

Suggestions for things that would never have occurred to us were crucial, and frequent reassurance really helped reduce any worries and make the whole process a lot smoother. Also great to have a voice of reason for any ideas that were too silly.

What do you remember most about having Annabel there on the day?

So calm! Never felt like we needed to get involved in the nitty gritty, Annabel just handled it all behind the scenes. We had a band start playing as a surprise for the guests and we have no idea how Annabel co-ordinated it but she pulled it off! She also made sure that we got bits of time in the day to pause, relax, spend some time together, take a break from the mingling and really enjoy ourselves.

What would you change about your day?

Not much at all really, I was going to say the rain delay at the start but I think it ended up adding to the anticipation and atmosphere!

What advice would you give to someone else planning a DIY style do?

Have trust in each other and in your wedding planner – they will make sure it all comes together! No need to micromanage if, like me, you have those tendencies.

Which element of the day brought you the most joy?

Having a little 10 minute break and a pint alone with each other in the lounge room – with Annabel guarding the door!

What do you think you'll forget the quickest?

We feel like I’ve already forgotten most of the conversations we had with people, but definitely won’t forget that warm fuzzy feeling we had the whole day.

Would you recommend Annabel to others?

100% - so friendly, insightful, flexible. Exactly the right amount of firm when it comes to opinions and suggestions. Fantastic at dealing with suppliers. Really made the wedding and the months leading up to it so much more enjoyable!

For more info on how me or my team might help your special event, reach out!

Happy planning! A x

Note: Pictures from WBA on the day!