As the training director for the UKAWP I help tutor students at our training courses, over the years I have literally trained hundreds of planners. In 2005 I ran a course where one of the students was from Essex (like me) and was so incredibly enthusiastic and intelligent I remember liking her instantly. As well as organising parties and events she became the co-ordinator for Creeksea Place in Essex. After taking a break Teresa has re-launched ‘Cherry Street Weddings ’ alongside Anabel who is the current co-ordinator for Creeksea Place (and recently won best wedding co-ordinator for East of England )
Moving forward a few years, namely the end of 2011 when I was contacted by Teresa to organise a dinner to celebrate her 40th birthday in March. I felt privileged to be asked by Teresa, contrary to belief I have worked with a lot of event planners over the years, I think they love ‘handing over’ the reigns to someone else for their own personal functions! (I love this picture taken of us on the night – yes even in heels Teresa towered over me!)
Teresa wanted an intimate dinner in central London where the emphasis was on good food, close friends and fun entertainment. This wasn’t to be an event with flashy detailing. After viewing some venues Teresa settled on the Private Rooms at The Ivy . The traditional English décor with large oval table was perfect for what Teresa wanted.
Next stop was a meeting with Emma from A Bespoke Design to create a fun and quirky invite, the end result was a caricature of Teresa (although she still looked gorgeous) made to look like a sleek black clutch bag.
The day started with Teresa getting ready at the Savoy before heading over to the Ivy for pre dinner cocktails and canapés.
A pianist sung some wonderful songs throughout the cocktail hour putting everyone in the right frame of mind. On display in the room where some mini cakes we commissioned Zoe Clark to make, every ‘shoe’ was different and was a great talking point on the night.
A caricaturist created a fab piece with all guests at the table and finally we had the most amazing illusionist/magician .
My thanks to Mark Bothwell for capturing some wonderful images and the staff at the Ivy for the most amazing hospitality, the attention to detail from staff was wonderful on the night.
Tags: 40th birthday party, private rooms at the ivy, the ivy, the savoy
