Ask the Expert: How to plan a wedding
Our events wouldn’t be possible without the talented suppliers and friends of Rosebery Estates who bring them to life. This month, we’re delighted to welcome back Kimmie Brown of LITU Events, a multi-award-winning Scottish wedding and event consultancy. With nearly three decades of experience, Kimmie is a revered name in the industry. She joins us to answer your most-asked questions from Instagram. Missed your chance? Follow us and let us know which expert you’d love to hear from next – we’re always listening.
What’s the most creative or unique wedding idea you’ve ever made happen?
One of the most memorable weddings I planned was for a brilliant lawyer who wanted to subtly weave her profession into her celebration in an elegant and meaningful way. We designed centrepieces featuring stacked books adorned with cascading flowers, striking the perfect balance between whimsy and sophistication. To introduce an element of dark academia, vintage-style black streetlamps lined the tables, casting a warm glow over the dining space. It was a beautifully personal and unforgettable celebration.
I’ve also had the joy of incorporating beloved pets into weddings – everything from dogs to horses. For many couples, their pets are family, and I wholeheartedly support making that dream a reality whenever possible (though always check with the venue first!).
What are your top recommendations for keeping guests engaged and entertained throughout the wedding and into the evening?
Music is the heartbeat of any wedding, setting the tone for different moments throughout the day. Whether it’s creating a relaxed ambience during the drinks reception or filling the dance floor later in the evening, live performances add a truly magical touch. A jazz trio, harpist, flautist, violinist, string quartet, or acoustic guitarist – every couple should consider what best suits their vision.
Beyond music, unique entertainment can elevate the guest experience. I’ve arranged falconry displays multiple times, and they are always a hit! Watching guests hold an eagle owl or witness a bird of prey in flight adds a sense of wonder and makes for incredible photo opportunities.
Outdoor games have also become increasingly popular, offering a fun way to keep guests entertained, especially when not everyone knows each other. Whether it’s croquet, mini putting, or oversized lawn games, a little friendly competition is a fantastic icebreaker.
Are there any wedding trends or ideas you’re currently loving and can’t wait to try?
Growing up overseas, I was surrounded by dramatic landscapes and breathtaking scenery, which continue to inspire my creativity. One of my dream projects would be to transform a venue or marquee into a magical winter wonderland – think real trees, snow-covered mountains, and vintage chair lifts as casual seating. Add to that a menu featuring traditional European cuisines like Gröstl, Goulash, Schnitzel, Fondue, or Raclette, and you have an unforgettable alpine experience. I’m imagining the whole thing at Barnbougle Castle right now!How do you ensure couples stay stress-free during the planning process?
Planning a wedding is like solving a puzzle – it starts with a vision and piece by piece, it comes together. Once we establish the theme, ambience, and key expectations, we build a trusted team of suppliers who share the same goal: creating an unforgettable day for the couple and their loved ones – just one of the reasons I love working with the Rosebery Estates team!Meticulous planning, patience, and constant communication are key to reducing stress. When couples feel secure in the process, they can focus on the excitement of their big day rather than the logistics.
What’s your approach to handling wedding day disasters?
Unexpected hiccups happen, but they’re rarely unmanageable. Staying calm, assessing the situation, and finding a discreet solution ensures minimal disruption. If an issue requires the couple’s input, clear and swift communication is essential. The goal is always to restore calm and keep everything running smoothly – often, a quick fix can turn a moment of panic into a seamless transition.
What’s the most unexpected wedding request you’ve ever received?
“Can I bring my pet to my wedding?” Absolutely, if the venue allows it! But I must admit, the most unexpected request came from a bride who wanted to bring her pet ferret. I had never imagined a ferret as a wedding companion, but there it was, dressed in a tiny kilt, charming everyone in attendance. It was a delightful and unforgettable addition to the day!
How do you navigate situations where a couple has completely different wedding visions?
It’s not uncommon for couples (or sometimes a bride and her mother!) to have differing ideas about the wedding. My role is to serve as a neutral third party, helping to bridge the gap by exploring creative solutions that honour both perspectives. The key is ensuring that everyone feels heard and satisfied with the final decisions.
Kimmie, how do you manage to stay so relaxed and at ease?
With 28 years of experience in wedding and event planning, I’ve encountered almost every scenario imaginable. This industry requires a passion for working with people, adaptability, and a love for the ever-changing nature of events. No two weddings are ever the same, and that’s what makes this job so exciting!
I thrive on the challenge of creating unique experiences, collaborating with talented professionals, and fostering a positive, energetic atmosphere. After all, when the planning team enjoys the process, that enthusiasm is contagious and translates into an incredible day for everyone involved.
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A huge thank you to Kimmie for sharing her time and expertise with us!
If you're in the early stages of planning your wedding and would like more information about our venues, we'd love to hear from you – feel free to reach out!