COMMUNITY LIVING
Chapel or church no more
Previously , it was the norm to get married in a church , but trends are changing . Many couples today are happy to exchange vows on the river deck at Emily Moon , overlooking the ocean at Forest Hall , the mountains at Lombard Villa , or the vineyards at Kay and Monty .
‘ Offering a one-stop package trumps many other considerations , so find the best venue and then compile a package involving triedand-tested vendors ,’ says Smith .
Management mandatory
Most importantly , according to Smith , is that management is 1,000 % on board . ‘ Don ’ t put your faith in inexperienced planners who believe they know all about eventing .
‘ When , months before the wedding , a bride sends an email to Joan , she doesn ’ t want to hear back from Mary . Consistency of management – one designated person who understands the wedding business – is essential . certain psychology behind the perfect wedding . This is an incredibly important day for the couple and their families , who often pay a lot of money for you to make it work , while counting on you to make memories and fulfil dreams .’
Quality , consistency
Small things can make a big difference , and Smith emphasises the importance of quality control throughout the estate : working light bulbs , lawns freshly mowed , a sparking pool , clear signage , clean windows and correct dress code .
‘ This person must be able to offer advice , see the bigger picture , understand family dynamics , and foresee pre-wedding sundries . Will babysitters or a kiddies ’ menu be required ? Can the bride have breakfast in her room ? Has the order of service or speeches been carefully considered ?’
She says estates are in a good position since such a person , constantly available onsite , could be a member of staff who understands the property – this is preferable to using the services of an outside coordinator who may only be available sporadically .
‘ Estate managers must take note that it ’ s not just a case of putting out flowers or setting out the tables and chairs . There ’ s a
‘ It doesn ’ t further your cause when the food is great but the pool is green ! This is a showcase of your estate , with many people sharing their thoughts via word of mouth or social media . The last thing you want is the bridesmaid telling friends : I ’ ll never get married there !’
Pick your lane
Smith recommends sticking to specialities when marketing your estate as a wedding venue . ‘ Are you childfriendly ? What are your menu options for lunch or dinner ? What are the rules relating to decor ? What is provided by the venue ? Is there a poor-weather plan ?
‘ Consider the culture of the property and then stick to it . Don ’ t try doing bits of everything , such as offering a finedining menu when your chef doesn ’ t have the skills . An inexperienced coordinator may not be able to assess the situation in pre-wedding plans , having dire consequences for your estate . There ’ s no coming back from messing up a wedding day .
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‘ But if you can guide your market with a single responsible person , who even ensures that the sun sets at the right angle , you ’ ve got a shot at success .’
Esther de Villiers