Olivia is practically a part of the furniture here at Unique Norfolk Venues. Having started as a valued member of our Front of House team, her love of events has seen her flourish from assisting at weddings to planning your special day. Olivia is incredibly attentive to detail and her understanding of what it takes to coordinate a successful wedding is second to none. 

What inspired you to first become involved in events?

“It was something I sort of fell into! I started in a front-of-house role with UNV after working at another events company and just really enjoyed the buzz of a wedding day and meeting so many different, interesting people. I find it really rewarding to be a part of such an important day, one of the most memorable days our couples will ever have.”

What moment is your highlight of a wedding day?

“It has to be when couples have a ‘first look’ photo with a loved one or their partner. It’s a very touching moment, it’s so emotionally charged and you see the stress immediately melt away. It makes any difficulties in the lead-up worthwhile and reminds them, and me, of what the day is all about.”

What do you find helps you wind down after a busy weekend of events?

“Riding is a big part of my life; when I ride it takes all of my focus so it gives me a real mental break. The movement, just being outside in nature, is great to help me recharge. I try to meditate each morning for a few moments too. A nice warm bath after being on my feet all day is always my first thought on the way home from a wedding!”

How would you describe your approach to planning?

“I try to offer stability, to be a calm, consistent presence from our first meeting right through to the day itself. Planning a wedding can be a real rollercoaster, even the most chilled couples understandably get quite stressed as the day draws closer, so I find that consistency is crucial to make them feel at ease. I’m very relaxed as to when we have meetings and how many; I almost let the couples guide the process as they’re all individual and will each have different needs for me to meet.”

Which venue is your favourite?

“I’d definitely have to say, Pentney Abbey. I did my very first shift there, I’ve worked there for a long time and have become quite attached to it. It’s where my journey started and I’ve had a lot of fun doing the tasting events, wedding setups and evening shifts with the best team. I like the venue itself obviously because of its story. As someone who studied history, it’s nice to be somewhere with real character and personality. I feel at home there.”

Any last words of advice?

“Enjoy every moment! Don’t get too caught up in the nitty gritty. You are the most important thing about your day. Be present and take everything you can from it because it’s such a fleeting period of time; it’s only one day. So, make the very most of celebrating your love with your favourite people.”

Couple Feedback:

“Olivia, firstly THANK YOU for making our wedding simply the BEST. We have had unending compliments about the venue, the staff, the organisation, professionalism – the list goes on. Please pass this on to your team! They were just brilliant.“

~J&L / February 2024~