Have you ever wondered how weddings come together? Meet Mandy, your wedding coordinator extraordinaire.
While there are a lot of hats to wear as a wedding planner, what is your biggest focus that brings it all together?
My main focus is making sure the couple can relax and enjoy themselves, and to soak in every moment without worrying about the details! When I see them during their first dance, I know I’ve done my job well—it’s the best feeling!
How do you handle all the moving parts to ensure the couple has a perfect day?
I’ve learned to break the day into bite-sized chunks and make sure everyone—vendors, staff, family—knows exactly what needs to happen and when. It’s all about being organised behind the scenes.
What is the funniest/weirdest thing you have had to manage at a wedding?
Oh, definitely the time the groom forgot his vow book at home (three and a half hours from home!) and had to ask his darling landlord to send photos of the vows, so we could print it at the venue, all whilst sewing our sweet bride into her dress after she had a malfunction moments before the ceremony—all in a day’s work!
How do you best handle the expected and unexpected at a wedding?
I always go in with a Plan A, B, and sometimes even C! I make sure there are backups for everything and that I have thought through each aspect of the couple’s day.
How do you keep calm under wedding pressure knowing everyone is relying on you?
Being prepared is key! I spend weeks planning everything so that by the time the wedding comes around, I can rely on the system I’ve put in place. Staying calm helps everyone else stay calm too, and when little things go wrong, I handle them quietly and quickly, so no one even notices.
What are your BIG wedding Dos and Don’ts?
Do: Trust your wedding coordinator or planner! We’ve done this many times, and we’re here to make sure things go smoothly.
Don’t: Worry about the little things. I truly mean it, your guests are there to celebrate with you—they won’t notice if one thing doesn’t go as planned. Focus on enjoying your day
Do: Hire reputable vendors and then trust them! The most incredible weddings have been those where the couple have trusted their team and allowed them to suggest, create and capture.
Don’t: Overdo the DIY’s, we’ve seen it over and over again, no matter how organised you are! Pick some small key aspects that you would like to do and then hire a trusted vendor for the bulk of the tasks.
What are some of the lessons you’ve learned as a wedding planner?
Always over-communicate. I’ve learned that assuming people know something can lead to miscommunication. And when things don’t go as expected, it’s important to stay flexible and manage accordingly. With a smile always!
What do you love about weddings in the Midlands?
The scenery is breathtaking—those rolling hills and open skies create the most beautiful backdrop. Plus, there’s something so peaceful about the area that helps everyone relax and enjoy the day more fully.
What do you love most about your job?
Seeing the couple’s visions come together. But what I love even more is seeing the couple’s faces light up when they realise they’re actually married and their day has been everything they imagined. It’s the ultimate reward for me—it’s a great day at the “office”!
Can you share one of your favourite/special moments you love at weddings?
When I get to fluff my bride’s dress as I send her on towards her forever! Pure magic! Goosebumps every time even after all these years!
Is there anything else you would like to add or share?
Weddings are all about creating memories that last a lifetime. Every couple is different, and I love tailoring each wedding to fit their personalities. My goal is to make sure they can be fully present, relaxed, and focused on their love, their people and happiness. Enjoy your wedding planning journey and don’t get so bogged down by small things that you miss the magic!
http://www.hellobrideweddings.co.za
Photos:
Jesse Gademan Photography
Tuhi Photography