With a promise to make your big day as unique as you, Oddfellows is a wedding venue with a difference. With unusual, quirky décor at every turn, Oddfellows is like no other wedding venue in the country.
How long have you been in the industry?
I’ve been in the industry for over ten years.
What made you want to become a wedding co-ordinator?
I fell into weddings during my time working at a well-known castle. I was based on the hotel side of operations but as weddings were so popular there, I was often called in to help. I fell in love with the planning side of weddings, creating a special day for a couple who you have got to know well during the process!
What is your favourite part of being a wedding co-ordinator?
The people I work with. It’s such an exciting time for a couple and so rewarding for me to be able to bring happiness on what is the most important day in your life.
What makes planning weddings at your venue exciting, unique, or different?
Oddfellows is the epitome of unique and different. Our interiors are bold and fun, and suit brides and grooms with personality. The hotel is a restored and converted Georgian townhouse, in one of the best locations in the city – and it oozes character and charm. The events spaces are completely private, complete with a roof terrace that looks over the Mary Poppins style chimney pots of the historic part of the city. It attracts couples who want a wedding day to remember – that is different and fun!
What is the best advice you would give to a couple planning a wedding?
Two pieces of advice are really important. Firstly don’t be afraid to delegate! We have an experienced team here who are more than happy to help every step of the way. Secondly, be innovative and flexible. Some couples have a set idea of the way a wedding should work, but we can really accommodate any request – from afternoon tea parties to BBQs, to organising a surprise for the groom to introducing you to entertainers that are a little bit quirky!
Share some details from one of the most memorable weddings you have been a part of.
A Star wars themed wedding! The groom was a huge star wars fan, and he hired Star Wars extras to come as the ceremony was starting to surprise the guests. Chewbacca, Storm Troopers and Luke Skywalker joined the wedding party!
What are the biggest trends you are seeing in weddings right now?
We are seeing more informal, relaxed celebrations. Flowers are still very important as I see many floral sculptures and lavish decorations. So, even though the occasion is relaxed, the attention to detail is still very important!
What have been your favourite or least favourite wedding trends you’ve seen during your career?
Feathers was huge at one point, which was a little off-putting!
What is the strangest thing you’ve seen at a wedding?
One bride and groom got married in onesies! He was very tall – so went as a giraffe and she was a rabbit!
