So this is a question I feel is something a lot of couples think about when they start searching through the minefield that is wedding planning. Now for most all this is new to them and can seem daunting and a little overwhelming. All these new terms to learn and figure out, traditions your being told you must follow. The must-have new items and the wedding colour choice everyone seems to ask you about. So let’s break it down and explain exactly what a wedding stylist is and why they can be a crucial part of your wedding.

A stylist firstly is not to be confused as a venue dresser! A venue dresser has a selection of stock you pick from and they set up and take away. You usually pay per item hired. As a stylist they are there to help design your wedding, working with you to help bring your vision to life. So like me, some stylists do have a collection of stock items. Their clients can pick from these, mine are included in my package price. Their fee also includes the sourcing or making of extra items to make sure our vision comes to life. This means you are not limited to their stock meaning the styling possibilities are endless.

Time-saving

Stylist are usually the go-to person for all creative suppliers for your day. Taking away all the stress from you on the run-up to the wedding. It also means that you know that every little detail is going to coordinate and be styled to perfection. Your stationery, cake, florals and any extra finishing touches. For me, I supply my couples with a look book which is passed on to all suppliers to make sure their vision is understood by all. I am there from the night before or first thing in the morning through to when your guests sit for your wedding breakfast. Then of course there to supervise the clear down the next day.

I usually say think of a stylist as a design-led wedding planner you have booked for on the day. As they are there to help you make all the important decisions running up to the day. Then there to deal with any issues that may arise the morning off. For me, a wedding is about celebrating your love story with family and friends. So, styling is about getting to know you as a couple and bringing your personality out in fun quirky ways.

I have my set items to make the process as easy as possible. As we all know how stressful and time-consuming planning a wedding can be. I love to design, source or make personalised items for my clients. This can be anything from a themed table plan to a show-stopping ceremony backdrop.

A wedding stylist saves you money

So I hear you, this is all amazing but weddings are expensive and I can just do all this myself can I not? Yes of course and no one is stopping you! Sourcing all your co-ordinating trusted suppliers and design item and making all your items should not be taken lightly. It is a fun process, especially for the creatives, but it is time-consuming and at times stressful. I love what I do and I know I am very fortunate but even I wouldn’t want to spend my wedding morning rushing around setting up all the items. Why would you? When you could be sat around relaxing and being pampered ready to marry the love of your life.

Also, stylist have great connections in the wedding industry. They can usually source you the best quality items at the cheapest price. Once you add up all those items you have bought, and now stuck with. The material cost for all the items you’ve made, have you really saved money not booking that stylist?

eco friendly

We all know weddings cost a lot financially! they also can have a big footprint on the planet its self. Hiring a stylist or venue dresser means that these items are being reused. For me, I try to make sure 70/80% of my stock is eco friendly. Because the items are being reused I can spend that extra for handmade, recycled items. I’ve just upgraded my glass to all recycled. These are double the price of normal glass vases so this makes it harder if you are buying for just one wedding.

I make a lot of my bigger items or source local tradesman. Consciously never buy from china and I am looking into offsetting every booking with a tree being planted. I saw the idea recently from kate at little button bakery. I also know and work with a local florist who uses local growers as much as they can. Also, clearing down and disposing of items. It may seem a silly thing but think of all the plastic from your new purchases packing alone. I make sure when binning items that what can be recycled is properly.

Hiring a wedding stylist

For me there has to be trust when booking a wedding stylist, designer or any supplier who is a big part of your day. You need to be able to trust them to understand your vision. Truly get how you want your day to look and feel. Book a consultation, get to know them. Do your research to make sure they have the same style as you, the same values. Don’t go of price alone. Peace of mind is priceless, book a supplier you trust to deliver on your day.

If you are interested in my services or would like to book a consultation to chat and see if we are a great fit, I would love to!