What is your most memorable wedding?
For my first wedding back in 2021 the couple ended up dancing behind my as I played the rest of their guests out. I'd played from doorway to the ceremony room to let one extra person be seated in the ceremony room, so it meant I was part way into the library. As a result the couple had a beautiful intimate moment just after getting married, dancing in private in the library. Gorgeous.
What about your business are you most proud of?
I love making live music part of real lives: holding a space and giving an important sense of ritual. We have been playing music to each other, for each other, for millenia.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Write everything down! Spreadsheet, notebook - whatever works best for you. It helps me a lot to to keep a diary for long projects that I need to space out over time. That way I can walk away knowing I can catch up where I left off next time.
Describe your typical process with a couple.
1, Checking that I am available for you and getting your date in my diary
2, Discussin the details and make sure we're both happy: music, length of set, location (indoor / outdoor), any other details
3, Getting a contract and deposit in place to protect both of us
4, Sorting any details and final payment two weeks before your wedding - including me checking in with your venue
5, Playing beautifully for you on your day!
For ceremony clients I offer a music consulation where you can hear different pieces on my harp. If you have a request for me to learn I will often play it here.
What is your number one floor-filler?
When playing for drinks receptions, people always ask me about the Jurassic Park Theme!
Which band from the past would you most like to have been part of?
Penguin Cafe Orchestra: beautiful, heartfelt, eclectic.