Newly engaged and wondering where to start planning your wedding? I’ve got just what you’re looking for! My Wedding Planner Q & A series offers insight from some of my favourite wedding planners (and other suppliers!). I’m asking the tough questions you’re afraid to ask, like what if something goes wrong? I’m excited to introduce this week’s Scotland wedding planner Catrina Duthie of Fin Flükra!
Tell me a bit about yourself and your business!
I’m a Shetland lass born and raised and now live near Glasgow. I’m the oldest of three sisters whom I love fiercely and dearly, they are my best friends. As the oldest I’m regularly referred to as the organiser and the go-to problem solver in the family. I’m also told I can be a little bit bossy at times!
Back in 2012 my husband, then-boyfriend, and I were walking along Nairn beach on a break. We were discussing our careers and what we envisioned for our futures. After listing off my strengths and things I enjoyed it was him who turned and said ‘What about becoming a wedding planner?’. I undertook an online training course certified by the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners later that year to see if it was for me. I loved it! [Working] Originally under the name Love Cat D Weddings & Events, I recently rebranded at the end of 2018 including a new name – Fin Flükra, which takes direct influence from my Shetland Heritage. My service is completely bespoke to each couples needs. I work closely with them as much or as little as they require in order to pull together the wedding day they’ve envisioned.
What’s your favourite thing about being a wedding planner?
Being part of such a special moment in my couples’ lives brings me utter joy! I become incredibly invested on a personal level and can usually be found having a wee cry during the ceremony, speeches and first dance. I love a good love story!
On the day, how long do you stay until?
On the day of the wedding, I’m generally there from first thing when hair and makeup arrive right through until the evening buffet has been served or later depending on my couples’ needs.
What if something goes wrong or a vendor doesn’t show up?
As a wedding planner, I will do absolutely everything in my power to fix, resolve or stop an issue before it arises. Having a strong network of contacts is critical to being able to do this! All that being said some things are simply out-with our control (weather, traffic jams/accidents etc) so I recommend all my couples to take out wedding insurance to protect them for the unthinkable should it arise.
What is your best advice for couples who are currently planning their wedding?
Be clear about what you can and want to spend on your wedding as early as possible. For many couples, they’ve never planned a wedding before and can easily become overwhelmed and taken aback when they start to get quotes for services. Take your time and do your research – think about what your priorities are as a couple.
Avoid using the term ‘reasonable’ in relation to cost when looking for quotes – what’s reasonable to you can be completely different for another couple. Be transparent about what you can afford and suppliers can better respond and manage your expectations right from the start.
Remember to take a break from planning and not let it consume every moment of your life. It will be there waiting when you’re ready – enjoy being engaged! Also, don’t be scared to ask for help – planning a wedding can be hard and stressful at times.
What are your wedding ‘must-haves’?
My wedding planner kit bag – you name it, I’ve got it in there! From sewing kits to cable ties, safety pins to bin liners, hairspray to various scissors and everything in between. It goes with me to every wedding and hasn’t let me down yet 🙂
Curious to read more from the Wedding Planner Q & A series? Check out our interview with Scotland Based Wedding Planner Ella Mai Weddings!
*Image by the wonderful Walnut Wasp. Check them out here.
