What is your most memorable wedding?
My own! I know that's a clichéd answer, but in terms of the music we spent so long curating the perfect soundtrack to our day! Music has always been such an important part of my life it was inevitable that it would play an important part in my wedding. I try to bring this passion to all of the advice I give to couples when planning the music for their special day. If you want to know more, check out the Tailor Made Music Blog on our website, as I've written a blog post all about the music that we chose!
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Bespoke, excellence, expert, classic, traditional
What about your business are you most proud of?
My incredible roster of musicians. When I set up Tailor Made Music Agency I approached the very best musicians in my network of professionals working in London. I was thrilled that they were all so excited to come on board, to help make this the best agency for booking classical and jazz musicians for weddings and events.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Allow yourself to focus on where your talents lie, and get help with things you're not sure about. Using an expert agency can be a great help for people who don't know where to start when looking for musicians. I can make sure you get the very best and save you a lot of legwork!
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
Recently I met a couple at a wedding fair, with their daughter who was around 3 years old. I had a harpist with me, and the little girl was captivated by the beautiful instrument! Her parents decided to book the harpist, and requested ‘Once Upon a Dream’ from Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. This was their daughter’s favourite film, and they wanted to make the ceremony special for her. I thought this was such a lovely touch. Now every time they watch that film together, they will remember how they felt when they heard it on their wedding day!
Describe your typical process with a couple.
The first step is a consultation. This is completely free and there’s no obligation to make a booking afterwards. In this I'll discuss the logistical details of your wedding, such as venue and timings. I also want to know what kind of atmosphere you want to create, what parts of the day you want music for and what types of music you like (and don't like). Once I have got a good picture of what you're looking for, I'll handpick a personalised selection of Artist Profiles for you to consider. These give you all the information you need to make an informed choice. Once you’re ready to make a decision we confirm the booking with a contract. The contract covers all eventualities and gives you peace of mind that the booking is secure. I’ll put the artist in touch with you at least a month before the wedding. I’m there for you throughout the entire process to make sure everything goes smoothly and to answer any queries.
What makes a romantic first dance?
A song or piece of music that really means something personal to the couple. There is certainly no one-size-fits all!
What is your number one floor-filler?
Bruno Mars, Marry You! This song sounds great played in a vibrant classical style by a string quartet. For me though, it's even better played by a dynamic brass quintet! With the trumpets alternating the tune and the tuba blowing out the bass line, you can really get the party started!
Which band from the past would you most like to have been part of?
Wouldn't it have been fantastic to have been in one of the bands accompanying the original Rat Pack in Vegas in the 1960s? The music of that era really stands the test of time. I could listen to the likes of Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. all day!
What is the soundtrack to your life?
Probably beautiful solo classical piano music by composers like Debussy, Satie and Chopin. Perhaps with a bit of jazz piano thrown in!