Weddings brought to life: An interview with Faye Chillingworth, event curator at Camm & Hooper

Weddings come in all shapes and sizes, and at all times of the year. Each wedding is a unique celebration that manifests itself in a variety of magical ways. What is to be one of the best days of a bride and groom’s life should be a stress-free and a carefree experience. But often taking on the planning, organisation and delivering such a special event can seem like a daunting challenge. That’s where the Camm & Hooper magic makers step in. Our dedicated wedding teams are here to take the worry away and leave you with nothing but the best experience.

We sat down with one of our talented event curators, Faye Chillingworth, to discuss her journey at Camm & Hooper, and just how she helps bring magical weddings to life.

Can you tell us about your journey into the hospitality industry?

I often like to tell people that it was the hospitality industry that found me, and not the other way around. My mother was working as head chef in a hotel 17 years ago, and I was looking for a job. She managed to help get me employed there and during that time I really discovered a love for delivering a service that makes people’s day. Since then, I have had a wonderful journey through the hospitality industry, working in everything from B&Bs and catering, all the way through to castles and operations. Finding Camm & Hooper felt like finding a home, there’s a sense of collaboration and determination to really shake up the events scene that is so exciting to me.

How involved are you in wedding events at Camm & Hooper?  

I have the pleasure of being heavily involved in wedding planning, thanks to how closely I work across all of our stunning venues. The venues all offer something very different, but equally as spectacular which helps to keep things fresh and exciting. At the stage that we first meet the lucky couple, we essentially become a part of their wedding.  

Working with brides and grooms is different to working with our other guests and clients. They need a little more love and care. And why shouldn’t they… it’s the most important day of their lives! 

Can you tell us a little more about your overall role as an event curator?  

I absolutely love my role. As an event curator, I am introduced to the client at the most creative and imaginative point in the relationship. We will work together to conceptualise their event, touching on everything from food, décor, music, lighting and beyond. Throughout this stage we will produce a document that is a meticulous blueprint of the event itself. It will be a detailed guide to everything happening, crossing all the departments from catering to décor to entertainment. So much work goes into this part of the planning that I’d like to think that someone off the street could pick it up and easily understand how to deliver the day.  

What trends are you seeing in modern weddings? 

From recent experience, it is apparent that a lot more couples are looking for a relaxed, family orientated and informal wedding day. It is more often than not that they are choosing feasting menus for family self-service at tables rather than a formal three course dinner. They are opting for personalised cocktails rather than prosecco. It’s a great way for them to make their day unique in every way.

What would you say to someone considering using an event partner for their wedding? 

When asked ‘why use an event planner?’, my response is always…why not? Who wouldn’t want someone to get involved and help with the journey, relieve stress and make things easier? An event planner is there to guide the soon to be newlyweds and help in any way possible. Most of our couples have never been married before, it’s like buying a house… unless you have someone to guide you, how do you know where to begin? With Camm & Hooper an event planner is part of the package, there is no additional cost for this service. We are a part of the journey from beginning to end, here to help with any questions or worries along the way, and give sound advice.

What is your advice to people starting their wedding journey.

If I had to give some top tips for when it comes to wedding planning, I’d probably start by saying don’t be afraid to ask questions. As a couple you are not expected to know all the answers and have all of the information. Let an event planner help and guide you along the way. Lean on us!

Final thoughts on the future of events?

The future of events are looking fabulous! Creativity, imagination and dreams are making events and weddings ever the more authentic and spectacular. There are so many more options available for everything now, no two events or weddings are ever the same. Each one is completely unique. That’s why I love doing what I do and I hope to spread that excitement far and wide.

In the dynamic world of events, where weddings stand as the pinnacle of life's grand celebrations, Camm & Hooper are committed to bringing your unique vision to life. As Faye aptly puts it, weddings are evolving, becoming deeply personalised reflections of each couple's essence. With Camm & Hooper, your wedding journey transforms into a vibrant tapestry woven with creativity, imagination, and endless possibilities.

As we bid adieu to 2023 and eagerly embrace the upcoming wedding season, we've diligently enhanced our wedding experiences. Through meticulously crafted brochures, redesigned website pages, tantalising menus, and revamped AV and entertainment packages, we've streamlined the process, ensuring your path to your big day is effortless and stress-free. At Camm & Hooper, we meticulously attend to the minutest details, enabling you to relax, unwind, and relish every precious moment of your special day.

To explore our enhanced wedding offerings, click here to see our Wedding Venues in London.