Amae Events

25/07/2024

Looking for some wedding day accessories? Make sure you check out Molly's Boutique!

21/05/2024

The burning question...speeches: before, after, or in-between courses?

Planning the perfect event involves many decisions, including the best time for speeches! Here’s a quick guide to help you decide what is best for you:

**Before the Meal**
*Pros:*
- Captures everyone's attention while they're fresh.
- Sets the tone for the event.
*Cons:*
- Guests might be impatient if they’re hungry.
- Can be rushed if there are delays in starting the meal.

**After the Meal**
*Pros:*
- Guests are relaxed and satisfied.
- Allows for a natural transition to toasts and mingling.
*Cons:*
- Risk of people being tired or needing to leave.
- Background noise can be higher as guests start socialising.

**In-Between Courses:**
*Pros:*
- Breaks up the meal, keeping guests engaged.
- Allows for multiple speeches without overwhelming the schedule.
*Cons:*
- Inevitably takes longer, extending the meal duration.
- Can interrupt the flow of conversation and dining.

Choosing the right time for speeches can make a big difference in the atmosphere of your event. Consider your audience and the overall vibe you want to create.

What are you choosing to do? Comment below and let us know...

12/05/2024

Followers old and new... hello!

I love following you all on here, especially if I am planning or have planned your wedding. Seeing you enjoy the process, buying a house, holidays, and then sometimes, your first child. I'm INVESTED in your journey, and that starts from the very first call we have together.

But whilst I sit here watching your lives together, I don't talk about mine very often, so if you're interested in the real me, here goes...

*I love love, and I'm the first person to get all smushy when I see a couple in love, bonus points if it's an elderly couple, that's the cutest 🥰

*I'm great at making decisions for other people but terrible at making them for myself, don't ask me what I want for dinner 🤣

*I keep my circle of friends very small. Quality over quantity every time!

*Despite being told otherwise, I feel like I don't make a good step-mum, and I battle with it every day!

*I get butterflies on my way to every single wedding I do.

*If a fellow supplier, friend, or customer shares my post or recommends me, it humbles me beyond belief, I am SO grateful.

*When someone books me and says,'we are so glad we found you,' I honestly smile so hard.

*I've been with my other half, Richard, for 10 years in October, and he is the reason Amae Events exists in the first place. He is my absolute rock and is the best person on this planet (imo) I can't wait to marry him one day!

*My life goal is to own a squirrel as a pet 🤣

*I don't sleep well after a wedding as I self critique everything.

*I donate to charity every single month without fail, so I love doing a wedding when a charity donation is made instead of favours given out 🥰

*My dream wedding location would be Italy! So if you want to hire me for that, I promise to love you forever!

*I can talk a LOT, so I'll end my post here before I run out of characters! If there's anything you want to ask about me, please do and leave me a fact about yourself. I love getting to know you!

Pic

08/05/2024

Ever wondered what's the point of having bridesmaids?

They're much more than just pretty faces in matching dresses! From the classic tasks like planning the hen do and keeping the bride calm on the big day, to the not-so-common duties like being the emergency makeup fixer or the dance floor hype woman, bridesmaids play a crucial role in making weddings unforgettable.

But what makes a stellar bridesmaid? Besides being organised and reliable, the best bridesmaids bring positivity, adaptability, and a sense of humour to every situation. They're the ones who will hold your dress up when nature calls, dance with your grandma, and make sure your lipstick is picture-perfect all day long. So here's to the unsung heroes of weddings - the bridesmaids who make dreams come true with a smile and a whole lot of love!

Tag your bridesmaids below and tell them why you picked them as your bridesquad!

04/05/2024

Who said that your first dance had to be 1, indoors. And 2, on a dancefloor?

V & M were so laid back, so when I suggested doing their first dance outside overlooking the Oxfordshire Countryside, they were excited to go against the norm, and trust me, it did not disappoint.

With everyone circling the happy couple, cocktails in hand, and the sun slowly setting, they shared their first dance overlooking our beautiful English, lush green rolling hills.

Remember, you don't have to follow the 'norm'. This is YOUR day, so if you want to try something different, I'll be the first to make suggestions on how we can make your day one to remember and unique to you.

Are you doing anything different on your wedding day that's not 'the norm'? I'd love to hear!

This beautiful wedding was made possible with the following wonderful suppliers...
Venue
Photography
Hair and MU
Video
Florist
Singer
Dj
Sax
Photobooth

01/03/2024

Let's make sure all the hard work my colleagues do, is recognised! Get voting if you've married within the dates given by TWIA!

If you know great wedding suppliers you can NOMINATE them for the next awards by completing the form below. It takes about 2 minutes and will be your good deed for the day!

30/01/2024

Ever wondered what a £4 million budget gets you for your wedding? Find out with Bridebook - The No.1 Wedding Planning App

28/12/2023

How to honour a loved one on your wedding day.

I can honestly say I have never been this emotional at a wedding. There was not a dry eye in the house when my bride, K, paid tribute to her late father in the most touching way.

Through the most beautiful video montage capturing precious memories throughout their lives, she held her brother tight as they shared a dance, finding solace in their shared love and a celebration of a life well-lived. All whilst being serenaded by the most angelic voice of Nicole singing 'dance with my father'.

It was such a heartwarming moment and the most perfect way to remember her Dad on their special day.

Remember, there is no pressure to commemorate loved ones who are not able to be there on your special day, for some people, it's too emotional to have a picture or a memory of them there. Do what you are comfortable with, even if that's simply taking a minute in private to remember them.

Feel free to save this post for future use.

Venue
Photo
Hair
Singer

24/12/2023

A gift for the newly engaged!

'Tis the season for love and proposals so we celebrate the festive season (I'm currently sitting here with a glass of red in hand), many of you may be getting engaged (eeekkkk), reminiscing on your own proposal or even celebrating your last Christmas as a Miss or a pre marriage Mr.

I'm so excited to hear about your proposal...share your story below, and I'll pick my favourite to send a gift out to!

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas filled with love and lots of sparkle!

17/12/2023

**4 yrs old!**

On Friday, I celebrated the fact Amae Events turned 4! When I first experienced weddings at the age of 16, I knew in my heart that I would, one day, become a wedding planner...fast forward to my 40th and I FINALLY took the plunge, purely down to the support I had and continue to have from my amazing better half.

I have to pinch myself when I look back at how far I have come from picking up my first ever booking compared to now where I'm a recognised, award winning wedding planner. I am truly humbled and proud of everything Amae has become.

There are too many people on here to thank for their support, positivity, advice, and love shown to me as I grew and continue to grow - you know who you are.

Amae is still growing and evolving. There's a long way to go, but I'm looking forward to helping many more couples and venues with your weddings. Thank you for helping me live my passion 🥰

How do you know me? Comment below...

Pic from the fabulous
Confetti

23/10/2023

Did you know that having a wedding planner can save you time, energy, and countless headaches?

Us planners are experts at handling all the intricate details, from supplier management to timeline coordination. We take the stress off your shoulders, giving you more time to enjoy the journey towards your special day.

I can tailor and adjust the service to reflect what you need, so even if you want me to pop in and see you every month with a full update, it's not a problem, get that kettle on!

Say goodbye to wedding overwhelm and get in touch with me for a chat!

19/10/2023

Whimsical wild garden wedding

V&M wed in the delightful, contemporary barn that is nestled amongst its own rolling farmland in Oxfordshires countryside.

The spacious and sophisticated venue was perfect for the couples brief of 'a wild garden indoors' yet still offered the perfect backdrop outdoors; with views overlooking miles of green land.

V&M stopped for a kiss just before their guests entered to dine, but which picture do you prefer, black and white? Or colour? Vote for your favourite.

This beautiful wedding was made possible with the following wonderful suppliers...
Photography
Hair and MU
Video
Florist
Singer
Dj
Sax
Photobooth

18/10/2023

Hey there, my lovely followers and friends!

As I've just rebranded and refreshed my website (which is the cutest in the world imo), I wanted to introduce myself again.

I'm Hayley, Owner of Amae Events. Amae is inspired by a Japanese word meaning 'the desire for someone to take care of you', and that's exactly what I plan to do, hold your hand whilst you navigate through your wedding planning journey - a time when you may feel overwhelmed with all the countless decisions to make.

A little about me:
🐿 I'm obsessed with squirrels. Please don't be offended if we're ever talking, and I see one so suddenly run off with a bag of nuts that I just 'happened to find in my bag'

🌏 I LOVE to travel and try to get away when I can. My absolute favourites include Mauritius, Barbados, Reykjavik, and Italy - although Italians drive like they are at Formula 1 🤭

🍽 I love food (but not the dirty dishes at the end - who is with me on this?!). Yes, I am vegan, but don't let that put you off, I promise I won't preach and try to convert you.

🐈🐈‍⬛🐕 I have 2 cats, Dexter and Floki, and one dog, Dexie. I have been known to exchange numerous animal pics with my brides (consensual, of course). For some reason, the grooms never want them, but feel free to join in 😁

I think that's enough for now...ironically my next fact was going to be how I can chat all day, but this treadmill isn't going to walk itself!

So, who is going to be first to dm me with their animal pics?

Picture:

17/09/2023

Unbelievable! My bride pulled off the most incredible surprise for her groom at their wedding, and I cannot get over it!

Renowned famous singer Red showed up out of nowhere to serenade the couple and set hearts on fire 🔥❤️

Such an unforgettable moment that I know I won't forget quickly!

Make sure you check
out, her voice is INSANE!

Photo
Light up letters

12/09/2023

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Don't succumb to the pressure of jumping on every wedding trend!

Most couples I speak to gather their inspiration from other weddings, which is totally normal and you can also pick up some wonderful ideas, however the problem with this is that there are new trends coming out all the time and it's easy to go off or, get bored of your original choice.

Remember, your unique vision matters most. Stay true to yourself and plan a day that reflects who you are as a couple. Find inspiration, but trust your own instincts too!

How do you avoid imposter syndrome?

07/09/2023

Double the ceremonies, double the love!

This power couple knows how to spark joy with not just one, but two wedding ceremonies in a day!

From traditional Indian vibes to modern civil chicness, they rocked matching attire throughout. Talk about relationship goals! 🙌🥰

Wedding Planner .events
Photo .yang.martinez
Hair and mua
Mandap
Catering Krishna Events
Signage
Dohl players
Florist
Cake
String quartet
Dj
Pizza

05/09/2023

Feeling incredibly grateful as beautiful Bride Kate took a moment to thank me for helping ensure her big day was nothing short of perfection.

It's moments like these that remind me why I love my job!

Scroll right to see extracts from this lovely couples feedback.

  

03/09/2023

Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but let's be real, it can also be a whirlwind of details and decisions.

That's where a wedding planner comes in (me!) - your saving grace and partner in crime throughout the entire process! 🙌🏼

At Amae Weddings & Events, I'm here to shoulder the load and turn your dream wedding into a reality. But what exactly does a wedding planner do? Allow me to break it down for you!

1️⃣ Visionary Extraordinaire: I start by getting to know you, your love story, and your unique style. Together, we'll create a clear vision of your dream wedding, translating it into a detailed plan.

2️⃣ Supplier Matchmakers: From photographers to florists, I'll handpick a team of top-notch suppliers who align with your vision and budget. I can negotiate contracts, review proposals, and ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

3️⃣ Budget Whisperers: Budgets can be tough, but fear not! I'll guide you through the process, suggesting clever cost-saving strategies without compromising on your dreams. I'm all about maximizing your budget, getting you the most out of your cash!

4️⃣ Timeline Masters: I'll create a comprehensive wedding timeline, ensuring everything runs seamlessly from start to finish. No worries about missed cues or delayed speeches – I've got every moment accounted for.

5️⃣ Problem Solvers: From minor hiccups to unexpected surprises, I'll handle any challenges that come our way with a calm and collected approach. My experience and quick thinking will save the day, guaranteeing a stress-free experience for you.

6️⃣ Day-Of Heroes: Ah, the big day! While you soak up the love and joy, I'll be behind the scenes, orchestrating it all. From setup to teardown, I'll make sure every detail is perfect, leaving you and your loved ones free to savor every magical moment.

So, if you're feeling overwhelmed or simply want to enjoy a hassle-free planning process, let Amae Weddings & Events be your guiding light! I'm here to support you, alleviate the stress, and ensure your wedding day is everything you've ever dreamed of and more. Get in touch with me today, and let's embark on this incredible journey together!

16/08/2023

Creating your dream wedding day timeline can be a breeze with my expert tips!

By prioritizing key moments, like the ceremony and reception, you'll ensure a smooth flow throughout the day.

Don't forget to build in buffer time for any unexpected hiccups. They do happen, but by having a coordinator on the day, you won't even notice them!

As a rough guide, around 5.5 hrs after your ceremony is when your meal and speeches will finish, and you can start planning your evening do! Cake cut, first dance, party etc!

Need further help? Consult with suppliers or get in touch to book one of my power hours where I can create your timeline from scratch designed around YOU and your wedding day. This is not a 'one size fits all' situation.

Let's make every minute count on your big day!

10/08/2023

Transforming tradition!

Say goodbye to boring seating charts and hello to unique luggage tags as a seating plan for your wedding.

These stylish tags will not only guide guests to their designated seats but also double as a keepsake favor. Talk about practicality and elegance rolled into one!

Are you choosing something different for your seating plan?

Venue
Photography .cudworth
Florals

02/08/2023

Is your Groom hands on?

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but grooms have an important role in supporting their Fiancé during this exciting time.

Show your support by actively participating in decisions, offering to help with research and organization, and being a calming presence when things get stressful.

Communicate openly about expectations and priorities, and remember that teamwork is key to creating the perfect day.

Tag your Fiancé below as they may need a helping hand with support and advice!

29/07/2023

**REAL SURPRISE PROPOSAL**

It's not often I get to see the actual proposal but after talking to Michael, I could hear how excited he was to propose to his (then) girlfriend Jessica.

Jessica had secured a new job so they went away for the night to celebrate and whilst they were enjoying the culinary delights that The Swan in Southwold offered. The photographer and I were busy setting up the room ready for their special moment.

This is always such a precious time and it really is so special to see the very start of the wedding planning journey! Jessica was shocked!
by.emma.olivia captured the moment perfectly and I can't wait to share the rest of the pictures with you.

Congratulations to one of the cutest couples I've met!

If you're looking to propose to your partner and need someone to help coordinate it. I'd LOVE to chat!

28/07/2023

Feeling overwhelmed with wedding planning? I promise, you are not alone.

I hear this being said all too often and it breaks my heart. It's why I set up Amae Weddings & Events in the first place.

I'm here to help you get organised and save you time, giving you back precious hours to focus on work, family or other important commitments.

When it comes to planning your wedding, time is your most valuable asset. As a wedding planner, I can take the stress off your shoulders with my various, flexible services on offer, meaning there's always something that works for you, and your budget.

Let's work together to turn this into a smooth and enjoyable journey!

Get in touch to ask about my complimentary consultation.

23/07/2023

What you want, is not what you need (unless it's a G&T 🤔).

When planning, you have to think methodically. Working out what your needs and wants are, should be the VERY FIRST THING you do.

Grab a book or start a spreadsheet, start writing down what you need for your wedding day to happen, then write down your wants. I'd recommend putting these in order of priority first, then looking at costs.

Allocate a larger percentage of your budget the higher up the NEEDS list they are and work your way down. This is a sure fire way to not only keep a track on what you are spending, but making sure your priorities are sorted in order.

Otherwise you'll get carried away and you'll be slowly eating into your budget buying things you want but not need, then not being able to afford your NEEDS.

How do you keep a track on your spending and priorities?

18/07/2023

Timeless. Classic. Sophisticated.

Couples can find it difficult knowing what style of photos they want to have on their wedding day so I always give this top tip away...

Categorise the pictures so that you have a selection that you would want to print off and put onto display. It's likely the others will stay on your hard drive or get printed into an album/brochure for your coffee table.

Your photos are being taken for one reason, to encapsulate that very moment. If you're a fun couple, choose fun shots! If you're the timeless romantic type, choose timeless romantic shots or even a combo of the two but, just try to realise that you need to recognise yourself when you're looking back on these memories. Be true to yourselves.

Don't forget that your photographer will play a huge part in how you want your story to play out in picture format. Camilla absolutely nailed this wedding with K&A! It portrayed them perfectly!

What story will your pictures tell?

Venue
Photo
Hair
Mua
Florist

10/06/2023

It's hard to say no but lucky for you, I'm here to help.

It's all good and well when wedding experts tell you 'this is your day, do what you want and just say no', I've probably said it myself but, I know it's not that simple so, take my hand, I'm going to help you with this in a more diplomatic way.

You will come across many scenarios when planning your wedding day where you will need (want) to say no, and let's face it, we're not all confident enough to do that, and it can cause some major anxiety at just the thought of it.

Here are my 3 top tips to help you:

𝓞𝓷𝓮 - Unfortunately you are never going to please everyone so no matter how you deliver your 'no', someone will not be happy with your answer, but if you can accept that you can't control how others react to your decisions, the easier it'll be for you and if you were to agree to everything everyone else wanted you to do, then it wouldn't be your day

𝓣𝔀𝓸 - When faced with a situation that you need to say no to, is there a way to compromise that benefits everyone (as long as you are happy with this)? For example, Mum wants to invite her friend who you hadn't planned on inviting. Could they come in the evening instead?

𝓣𝓱𝓻𝓮𝓮 - If you do find yourself needing to say no, remember to stay calm and relay it in a way that someone can't get angry with, for example: your best friend wants to help run the day and is being quite persistent about it. Your reply? "you are so sweet to offer and honestly, we really appreciate it but you know, ?? & I are really looking forward to you coming as a guest and I don't want anyone to miss a second of what's going on so whilst we appreciate your offer, we won't need your help but thank you so much"

Leave your 'no' responses so that they are not open ended questions. Relay it in a way that the other person can't really come back and say anything. If they do, you may need to dig deep and be strong enough to say 'that's our decision and we're not changing our mind, thank you'

Have you had to deal with a 'no' situation? Share your experience in the comments.

02/06/2023

Is your wedding about you or your guests?

Check out my potentially slightly controversial blog post about choosing your guests wisely and how in my social media lives, everyone heard a viewpoint from me that they'd never even thought of in the way I described!

Head over to my link in bio to check out my latest blog featuring pictures from .photo at and .cudworth

*𝑫𝑶𝑵'𝑻 𝑭𝑶𝑹𝑮𝑬𝑻 𝑻𝑶 𝑷𝑶𝑷 𝑩𝑨𝑪𝑲 𝑯𝑬𝑹𝑬 𝑨𝑵𝑫 𝑳𝑬𝑻 𝑴𝑬 𝑲𝑵𝑶𝑾 𝑾𝑯𝑨𝑻 𝒀𝑶𝑼 𝑻𝑯𝑰𝑵𝑲*

30/04/2023

The most important post you'll read today.

So I know 'supplier contracts' isn't the most exciting thing to talk about on a bank holiday weekend but I promise you... This post is so valuable if you're getting married!

In basic terms, contracts are the 'documents' that your supplier asks you to sign / agree to and details the 'promises' of service levels they will deliver to you.

Legally, you don't technically need to sign the paperwork to be in agreement, simply going ahead with the services is enough proof that you are agreeing to that service offered.

Therefore, not only do you have to abide by the terms and conditions... So does your supplier.

I see so many couples putting posts on like, 'my supplier has let me down, I've not heard from my supplier for months' etc etc and of course, you don't need that stress in your life!

Now of course, even the fact there is a contract in place does not prevent these things from happening but it does give you a good legal standing should anything go wrong.

I appreciate that may not help you short term, but you will be grateful you checked your terms and conditions before proceeding.

My top 3 tips...

1) Before agreeing to go ahead with a supplier, ask if they provide a contract (if they don't, that should be a red flag) and read it THOROUGHLY before handing over any money!

2) Make sure you have any agreement in writing if it is not detailed in the contract already 'supplier will be on site from 10am for example'

3) Find out what that business will do should they suddenly not be able to fulfill their contract to you (sole owners coming down ill / business going bust for example)

Have you been let down by a supplier? Share your experience in the comments so it can help others with the sort of questions to ask at consultation stage.

*note... I am not a legal professional, simply using my knowledge to offer support & guidance based on past experience

08/04/2023

What's the point in having wedding cake?

Historically, cake was served to bring luck and fertility to the happy couple however over time it became an item of tradition.

Having run lots of different weddings, I have seen so many different styles and techniques used and I always get excited when a cake professional delivers something that I have not seen before.

As you don't get to see your cake until your wedding day (simply a mock up) it's important that you communicate clearly with your cake maker so they can fully understand the look you are wanting to achieve.

They will also ask about what flowers you are having so that they can make sure it matches your flowers do make sure you have this info to hand from your Florist.

Not everyone opts for cake so please don't ever feel pressure to have one just because you've been told 'oh you have to have cake'... No you do not! If they argue with you, send them my way!

Are you having cake?

Venue
Planner .events
Photographer
Florist
Cake
MUA
Hair
Couple