We were delighted to meet up with Gabrielle recently, who joined the team at One Great George Street as Wedding Coordinator. Gabrielle, we know you are a busy lady so thank you!
So, when did you join One Great George Street?
I joined One Great George Street (OGGS) in the gloomy month of January. However this year January for me was full of promise and excitement as I was starting my new job at this wonderful venue in the heart of Westminster. I have been working in the wedding industry for three years in various different positions within a couple of venues. Most recently I looked after weddings at a country house hotel in Taplow which is a complete contrast to the grandeur of OGGS in the country’s capital. Before that I was a section manager at Marks & Spencer for 3 ½ years while I was studying. It was while I was at Marks & Spencer that I decided to pursue my dream of working in the wedding industry after attending one of their Per Una fashion shows.
What is a typical day like at OGGS?
Wow, that’s a hard question to answer as each day varies and I am learning new things all the time, which is what I love about the job. I generally spend my time booking consultations with prospective clients, coordinating menu tastings and couple’s wedding days. I particularly love attending and getting involved in the menu tastings as the food here at OGGS is exceptional! Recently, I have been doing market research on the latest trends and meeting with new London based suppliers. This helps me to develop my industry knowledge, plus it ensures that OGGS recommends only the finest products and services.
What is the trend you are seeing again and again this year?
Weddings are considered a major event and continue to incorporate ever-growing elements of theming, performances and theatrical catering. This year I have noticed flowers being more and more prominent. By this I mean bringing the outdoors in, gardens are being created within a ceremony or wedding breakfast room. Also naked cakes continue to be on trend, I love them as I prefer not to have icing but also love their simple elegance. I can understand why they are popular as they look gorgeous in an ‘undone’ sort of way and of course are quicker and less expensive to produce. My favourite trend this year has to be mini stationery. It’s funny how something in a small package can create much more intrigue and excitement!
What advice do you give to brides and grooms who are newly engaged and planning their wedding?
To enjoy and savour this exciting experience. Once you pick your perfect venue and with the help of an experience team everything will fall into place.
If you could go to a celebrity wedding who’s would it be?
I would have to choose Mark Francis from Made in Chelsea because everything at his wedding will be the finest and most exquisite that money could buy. Plus he is simply a riot and there would not be a dull moment!
