In dreams and love there are no impossibilities. Lily Anna Rose meets for coffee with Dahlia Hill – wedding planner.
So upon the first introduction to an international wedding planner, Dahlia Hill you instantly know you are in good company. Her calm voice is immediately reassuring – and she will make you feel like your wedding will be wrapped in cashmere with a bow on top.
After all, weddings shouldn't be hyped with the 's' word – but with Dahlia Hill at your side and her extensive experience, the word 'stress' is banished. So what is Dahlia's secret? How does she make the flappable, unflappable – and create a picture-perfect wedding?
Lily Anna Rose caught up with Dahlia Hill, a self-confessed perfectionist, to find out about life in the wedding industry and how to deal with demanding guests. Photos were taken on location at Chewton Glen Hotel and Spa and by Abi Chadwick.
How long have you been involved in the wedding industry?
I have worked in the wedding industry for over 20 years. Both in the UK and overseas. I love it!
What sets Dahlia Hill apart from other wedding planners?
My warm and friendly approach can also do attitude – when required to deal with stressful situations that affect my clients. I have a sense of humor, which is helpful when needing to lighten moments. But being a good listener is the best attribute to help couples achieve their ultimate day. It is definitely 'all about them.'
What are the essential attributes Dahlia Hill has?
Problem-solving is all about getting the right solution for my clients. Understanding my clients and having a proper eye for detail allows me to use my experience to know what’s best for them intuitively. And even after 20 years in the business, there are still endless situations to learn lessons.
Staying calm and being jolly, patient and professional helps to keep couples at ease. I am utterly passionate about what I do. I love people and romance. I enjoy the quirks and curve balls that get thrown while organising a lifetime event.
What should couples consider before choosing a wedding planner?
Couples need to consider what they mutually require carefully. They need to think about how they are going to achieve their goals and within the budget available to them. A good planner will be precise and help to manage expectations. Opt for a wedding planner who can honestly help achieve wishes realistically to avoid disappointment.
Most couples have a perception that a wedding planner is an expensive ‘busybody’. When in fact a wedding planner is there to save you money, help you avoid unnecessary stress and be a friendly but impartial confident when things get too much.
A good wedding planner will undoubtedly ensure all your dreams and plans come together – on the most important day of your life.
It is my pleasure to be of service, and I am always humbled to be chosen to be a part of such a momentous occasion.
If you had a dream wedding you could plan, who, what and where would it be?
It would be for a couple who had found love later in life or under challenging circumstances. Perhaps held at a destination with a romantic but personal story attached. Included with everything they had both ever dreamed of and thought impossible. Weddings are so intimate and individual. My job is to create a wedding that my clients dream of, not what I want.
You have worked on some pretty spectacular weddings – what is the most challenging situation that you have to manage?
I am sure you are expecting me to say rustling up a camel at the last minute; straightening a wonky cake; sewing a bridesmaid into her dress; rescuing a wandering child from a pond or contending with the good old English weather? But to be honest, the most challenging of all is family politics – especially when there is family friction, and members do not get along. They forget the consideration for the couple whose wedding it is.
I find creating a happy atmosphere, using distraction tactics and politely reminding said persons why they are there in the first place usually works. If all else fails, then book a taxi and send them home.
Last of all, while couples are on a budget for their big day – what five things would Dahlia Hill recommend that a couple should invest?
Wedding planner – of course! To alleviate stress and ensure all your wedding day dreams come true, on time and budget.
Wedding stationery – invitations give the first impressions while setting the scene for your wedding day. It prepares your guests and engages them with your plans.
Wedding dress – you want everyone to go ‘wow’ when you walk in the room, including your future husband, right?
Food and drink – after all your guests will be expecting a celebration to toast to your bright future – so let’s get this party started.
Photographer – to capture your memories that will last forever and to share with generations to come. And to give you both the warmest of smiles on even the stormiest of days.
For more details about Dahlia Hill Weddings you can email or call +44(0)7947 371847
On location at The Chewton Glen
Art direction by Dahlia Hill
Suppliers
Dresses supplied by Anna Bridal
Flowers by Emma at Arcade Flowers
​Cakes and macarons by Fancie Buns
Photography by Abi Chadwick
Are you a local wedding supplier and have a story to share on Be Inspired please contact Lily Anna Rose.
