Sophie Ndaba-Harrington, wedding planner to the stars, explains how you, too, can organise a wedding overflowing with glitz and glamour

How long before their wedding day do you recommend that a couple approach a wedding coordinator?
A couple should approach a planner at least six months prior to the wedding. A year is always better if the couple needs to save up for their big day.

What are some of the questions that couples should ask a potential planner before signing on the dotted line?
Ask about the planner’s experience. Find out how long the planner has been hosting events. This also depends on the magnitude and requirements of the event. A good portfolio is also essential. When you are happy, you sign!

What are some of the advantages of hiring a coordinator?
There is less stress, that’s for sure. Couples who require the services of a planner are usually on a tight work schedule or have no idea where to start looking. A planner allows you as a couple to sit back and let someone else do the research on your behalf.  They offer you solutions and a way forward and help make your dream a reality.

What are the trends in terms of wedding décor? What décor ideas are brides excited to try out?
Décor goes by individual taste. Some brides are into a clean look with a white and crystal feel while others prefer colour.
We are going for the clean and simple look more often now; chair covers and too much draping are out. Chair tie-backs are also an outdated trend; we now use Tiffany chairs in clear, gold or silver. We also do more glass base plates and less silver and gold. My current absolute favourites are the ghost crystal chairs and Wimbledon chairs for the garden. Stretch tents are also really popular right now; they are airy and save on draping and air conditioning costs. The simpler, the classier! In terms of colours, pinks, purples, lemons and watermelon are really popular.

What’s the next big thing when it comes to weddings, such as destination weddings, smaller receptions etc.?
I’ve planned so many destination weddings, including in New York, Namibia, Swaziland and Mauritius. Many South African couples are choosing to get married in other countries. The size of the wedding is still up to the couple; some are choosing small weddings while others have huge ceremonies with up to 400 guests hosted. Remember, flying out of South Africa with 25 couples to a foreign country always sounds fab!

What are some of your tips and tricks for helping couples save money?
Start planning months in advance. This way we can design a payment plan. This is a plan you pay for before, not after! Couples are then able to see if they can afford their dream wedding or if they need to downsize long in advance.

With all your experience, what are some of the common mistakes that you see couples making when planning for their wedding?
Couples tend to involve too many cooks in one kitchen. It’s their wedding. They must get it together first and be sure it’s what they want. When friends, in-laws or different family members get involved they all tend to want a say. This confuses the couple and moves them away from their dream.

Finally, what are some of your favourite weddings you have worked on and why?
I love ALL the weddings I plan. It’s my passion to bring a bride’s dreams to life. Yes, destination weddings are a bit more fun to plan, but all weddings are a pleasure to plan! You smile most of the time!