My Story

Hi, I’m Bernadette

I am the owner of Dream Occasions, and I love to create amazing events for life’s big celebrations.

I launched my company in 2002 following a successful corporate career in London. I’m based in Essex but cover all of East Anglia.

There has been one constant in my life, and that’s my love of people. Getting to know my clients is always a joy. Watching their reactions when they first walk into their wedding or party is an absolute privilege.

My clients always have the time of their life at their events, and when you put your trust in me, so will you. My company has a particular passion for marquee celebrations where we love to transform a blank canvas into a magical setting using a highly professional team of experts.

My path into event planning started in tourism, moved into TV production and culminated in a career as a top City Executive Assistant to Vice Presidents at CNBC. Becoming an event planner was a very natural progression for me, using the extensive skills gained from my corporate career.

Recognising a need for excellence in an unregulated industry, I co-founded the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners (UKAWP) in 2004. Through my role I continue to train and mentor those entering the wedding planning industry.  In 2014 I co-authored “Wedding Planning for Dummies” enabling me to help even more couples plan their perfect wedding. During my career, I have been invited to speak on TV and Radio as well as featured as an expert in numerous national publications.

Behind The Scenes

When I am not planning life’s big celebrations, I love to be with my dog and take long walks in the countryside.

I have been married for 16 years and have 3 lovely children who amaze me, and make me smile every day.

I love a to do list and spreadsheets (it’s true!) and watching the bride’s face during the speeches is one of my favourite wedding moments…

I adore curling up at night with a glass of wine and a romantic book: even in my down time I adore true love!