Bespoke Wedding Poems by Kathryn Anna

Being asked to create a poem that included McDonald's, Ru Paul, Syrian hamsters and a big fluffy dog called Brie is one that sticks in my memory - I love a challenge and my couple loved their poem.

Every poem I write is special, but one that stands out was working on a poem for a couple who met at McDonald's, rescued 9 Syrian hamsters, loved Ru Paul and had a dog called Brie. Capturing all these details in a romantic poem was a challenge but one I thoroughly enjoyed.

Caring

Enthusiastic

Positive

Insightful

Compassionate

Unique, Caring, Innovative, Creative, Unforgettable

I'm proud that my words are used to tell people's love story. I use all the skills I've learned as a poet to create a poem that is genuinely beautiful and fit to describe one of the most important moments in people's lives.

I believe that when it comes to writing poems for wedding readings, vows, speeches or gifts I offer something unique. Each poem I write is written with care and skills I've learned as a professional writer and always thrilled that couples trust me to tell their love story.

Stay focused on what you want your wedding to be. It's easy to get distracted by trends or trying to please your much loved family and friends but what matters most is that you share a day that celebrates who you are as a couple and the adventure you're about to begin.

Try to stay focused on what you want your wedding to be rather than trying to please all the other people you care about.

One of my favourite moments was when the couple had a "flower granny" instead of a flower girl.

One of the most charming touches I've seen recently was a Flower Granny - her grin as she scattered the petals was incredible. It was a joyful and moving moment.

After our initial contact I'll ask for all the details that will make the poem truly personal. I use these to create my first draft, which I send for feedback. After I receive the initial thoughts, I'll write a second draft, with more focus on the poetics - sounds, rhythm, and emphasis as well as using particular poetic techniques to enhance the meaning of the words. Again I ask for feedback, and redraft as necessary. Most poems take 2-3 drafts to be absolutely perfect. When we're all thrilled with the words, I move on to the bespoke illustration, which again is done in close consultation. Finally, I package up your poem and send it to you to enjoy.

The first step is to contact me with your details and when you need your poem. I'll get back in touch and send a Wedding Poetry profile, which guide you through the kind of details I need to create your poem ( you can always add more later on so don't worry if you forget something. I'll use the information you give me to write your first draft, which I send to you for approval. You can ask me to add extra details at this stage. Once you're happy with the content, I'll fine tune the poetics so the poem sounds beautiful when it's read and looks great on the page. I'll send this second draft through and again I'll make any alterations you need. Most of the poems I write for people need 2-3 drafts, but I will do more if necessary. After the words comes illustration and printing and I offer three different packages for this to suit all budgets.

This is a tricky one - the nature of the writing personalised wedding poetry means each poem I create is unusual - it's the quirky details that make the poems unique.

Invitations! These set the scene for the day and give everyone something to get excited about.

My best seller is my illustrated bespoke poetry print which includes a custom written poem, bespoke illustration, reader's copy to use on the day, delivery by Royal Mail tracked 48 and an recorded reading to help the reader practice before the wedding.

I'm always honest about the time it takes to write a poem for a wedding reading or speech. I've had requests just 2 or three days before the big day and have had to say no, which I hate to do, but the last thing any couple needs is uncertainty about their wedding reading. I offer a few ideas for poems and readings that I think are beautiful for a wedding, as well as a "Coming Soon" card if the poem is a gift for the happy couple.

The most unusual was the couple who used their beloved pup to deliver invitations to their neighbours. They were tucked into his collar and brought a smile to everyone.

This is a dream job for me! I've been a professional writer for many years and feel so much joy at finding the right word for the right moment. Using these skills for such an important occasion makes this joy even better.

The moment when the couple look into each other's eyes and it's as though they're the only people in the room.

The most romantic thing is authenticity and a genuine interest in each couple I work with. Love in all its forms is a wonderful thing and my personalised wedding poetry celebrates this.