You're getting married! Congratulations, but where to begin? Planning a wedding is really exciting but at the same time can be challenging. Here, at Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel, we can make your dream come true. Join our Memory Makers, Mya and Shinaid, as they share their expertise to guide you on a journey to create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Could you tell us a bit about what inspired you to become a memory maker?

Mya: My journey into wedding and events planning began with my deep love for creating memorable experiences. I've always been passionate about event design and coordination, and there's something truly magical about weddings. The joy and love that surround these events inspired me to turn my passion into a profession.

What do you find most rewarding about planning weddings?

Shinaid: The most rewarding aspect is seeing the couple's vision come to life and witnessing their happiness on their special day. Each wedding is unique, reflecting the couple's personality and love story, and being a part of that journey is incredibly fulfilling. It's an honour to help create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

How do you approach understanding and fulfilling a couple's vision for their wedding day?

Mya: My priority is to build a great relationship with my couple, I take the time to get to know them, understand their preferences, and learn about their story. We discuss their dreams, style preferences, and any specific cultural or personal elements they wish to include. From there, I curate a tailored experience, bringing together our suppliers and creative ideas to match their vision.

Can you share a memorable wedding you've planned and what made it special?

Shinaid: Certainly! One of the most memorable weddings I planned was for a couple who wanted to incorporate both of their cultural traditions. This was something very important to the couple and their extended families. So, we discussed their favourite traditions and memories they have from family weddings and came up with really fun and thoughtful ways to weave these into their wedding day around the hotel. The couple's joy and the guests' amazement were the highlights of the event.

What advice would you give to couples who are just starting their wedding planning journey?

Mya: My advice would be to start with a clear vision of what matters most to you as a couple. Prioritise those elements and be open to creative ideas. Also, don't be afraid to delegate tasks to trusted friends, family and seek professional advice– it can make the process much smoother and more enjoyable. Lastly, remember to savour every moment on the big day itself. It's a celebration of your love, so make sure to enjoy it!

Finally, what trends do you see emerging in wedding planning that couples might be excited about?

Shinaid: We're seeing a move towards more personalised and intimate weddings, where the focus is on creating meaningful experiences rather than grand spectacles. Sustainable and eco-friendly weddings are also gaining popularity, with couples opting for sustainable choices like digital invitations, reusable décor, and locally sourced flowers and food. These trends allow couples to celebrate in ways that are both unique and considerate of the world around them.