As we approach International Women’s Day, it’s time to honour the remarkable women who shape and innovate the wedding industry. From venues to planners, jewellers to designers, photographers to musicians, and more, women are often the driving force behind countless magical moments, comprising a staggering 80% of the wedding industry! So, this International Women’s Day, join us as we celebrate the achievements, share the inspiring stories, and glean expert advice from the fabulous women who bring dreams to life in the world of weddings.
Evie Arlott: The Wed Shed Decor & The Old Mill (Aldermaston)
For Evie Arlott, the wedding industry isn’t just a profession; it’s a family legacy deeply rooted in tradition and passion. As the fourth generation overseeing The Old Mill, Aldermaston, a venue steeped in history and hospitality, Evie’s journey into the world of weddings was both personal and life-affirming. “Witnessing the legacy of hospitality and celebration at the mill,” she reflects, “fuelled my desire to continue this legacy.”
In 2019, Evie embarked on a new chapter, establishing The Wed Shed, a wedding decor company aimed at transforming dream wedding settings into reality. With a keen eye for design and a dedication to preserving her family’s heritage, Evie found joy in curating luxurious wedding spaces that reflect her personal touch and attention to detail.
Her proudest achievement lies in the successful expansion of The Wed Shed beyond The Old Mill venue. Having adorned over 300 weddings with their creations, Evie and her team have not only enhanced the venue’s appeal but also contributed to its enduring legacy. “Reaching the 90-year mark for The Old Mill,” she shares, “is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and tradition.”
In a competitive industry where vendors vie for attention, Evie finds inspiration in the increasing presence of women in key roles. “The empowerment of women in this field,” she observes, “has paved the way for greater diversity and creativity.”
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Evie emphasises the importance of setting clear objectives and maintaining a positive mindset. “Obstacles are just temporary challenges,” she asserts, “and opportunities for growth.”
Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavours, Evie finds balance and inspiration as part of the Virgin Atlantic Cabin Crew, enthusing that “travelling enables us to spend quality time together.”
Embracing diversity is at the core of Evie’s business ethos. Her brother’s upcoming wedding, marrying his long-term boyfriend, underscores their commitment to inclusivity. “We embrace diversity within our team,” Evie explains, “and aim to provide a more diverse range of options for our clients.”
In Evie Arlott, the wedding industry finds a visionary leader dedicated to preserving tradition, fostering creativity and championing inclusivity. Through her endeavours, she not only creates timeless wedding experiences but also shapes a more diverse and vibrant industry landscape.
Phoebe Stanaway: Elisabeth Shell Events, Bespoke Wedding Planning
Phoebe Stanaway’s journey into the world of wedding planning began with a desire for freedom – the freedom to work on her own terms, from wherever she pleased, and to pursue a career that brought her joy. Reflecting on her decision to found Elisabeth Shell Events, she shares, “I decided to start my own business to give myself the three big freedoms: time, financial and location.”
An innate people person, Phoebe thrives in the fast-paced, dynamic environment of wedding planning. With a background in hospitality, including managing a cocktail bar in the heart of the city and running restaurants in London, she found her true calling in orchestrating weddings. “Not one day is ever the same in my life and I love it,” she exclaims. “A wedding really does tick all my boxes and flexes the muscles I have of things I’m really good at!”
With over 400 weddings under her belt and a string of accolades to her name, including being a Regional Finalist for The Wedding Industry Awards 2023 and Highly Commended in 2022, Phoebe’s expertise is undeniable. Yet, she remains grounded, recognising the challenges that come with balancing work and personal life. “Balancing demanding work schedules with personal life can be challenging,” she admits. “It’s also very difficult to keep boundaries in place with clients sometimes, especially without coming across as too assertive as a woman.”
Despite the challenges, Phoebe finds motivation in the sheer enjoyment she derives from her work. “I’m fun, I’m friendly. I get stuck in,” she declares. Her job has seen her in some extraordinary situations, from securing a marquee in headland winds to running pizzas through a snowstorm for an entire wedding breakfast. “My job pretty much is overcoming obstacles,” she says. “I just remember to take a deep breath, think creatively and believe that there’s always a solution – I just need to find it.”
Phoebe is passionate about the representation of women in the wedding industry and the diversity of love that it encompasses. She believes that women are leading the way in redefining wedding customs and traditions, shining lights onto the LGBTQ+ scene and highlighting disability awareness. “That also encourages others to step outside the box and look at how they might be able to use a hobby, or love or craft etc around their family commitments, and contribute to such a vibrant industry,” she remarks.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of wedding planning, Phoebe emphasises the importance of self-care and wellness. “I’ve burnt out before,” she admits. “If no one is going to die, I can have a day off. Nothing is that dramatic. I just need to remind myself of that, often.”
As Elisabeth Shell Events continues to evolve, Phoebe is committed to inclusivity and representation. While acknowledging that there is room for improvement, she is proactive in her efforts to create a more inclusive environment. “I absolutely am committed to doing my best to do better!” she affirms.
Phoebe’s journey in the wedding industry is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to her values. As she looks towards the future, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of excellence and inclusivity, ensuring that every couple she works with feels seen, heard and celebrated.
Ruby McGonigle: Lebrusan Studio, Ethical Designer Jewellery
Ruby McGonigle’s journey into the jewellery industry began with a sense of wonder and discovery amidst the vibrant gemstone markets of the Far East. Reflecting on those early days, she reminisces, “I still fondly remember my trips to Hong Kong at the very beginning and the incredible stones that surrounded me; carved, engraved, whittled into miniature sculptures, cut to enhance their natural flaws… I felt like a kid in a sweet shop.”
However, it was during these travels that she also confronted the darker realities of the trade. She recalls, “I bore witness to the dark side of the jewellery trade; the cheap prices, the offices filled to the brim with stacks upon stacks of farmed freshwater pearls, the child labour, the gemstones with murky histories circulating the market.” This experience sparked a deep commitment to ethical practices within the industry.
Armed with a passion for design and a commitment to ethics, Ruby pursued a Master’s degree in Design at Central Saint Martin’s, focusing her studies on the ethical implications within the jewellery industry. She shares, “When I met a Hatton Garden diamond dealer who told me nonchalantly, ‘When you work in this trade you sell your soul to the devil,’ I knew then that it didn’t need to be that way.”
Driven by a desire to challenge the status quo, Ruby founded Lebrusan Studio, a brand dedicated to sustainable luxury. “I didn’t set out to become a bridal jeweller,” she explains, “but I quickly recognised that engagement rings, wedding bands and commitment rings are some of the most meaningful jewels people will ever own.”
Over the past 12 years, Ruby’s impact has been profound. From championing Fairtrade Gold to delivering a TEDx talk on ethical jewellery, she has consistently pushed boundaries and garnered recognition for her efforts. Reflecting on her journey, she expresses, “I feel incredibly proud to reflect on all the ways my little homespun lifestyle brand has created a wave in the jewellery industry.”
Yet, amidst the accolades and achievements, Ruby remains focused on her mission to create meaningful, sustainable jewellery that resonates with her customers. “It’s crucial that jewels with such significance tell stories their wearers can feel proud of,” she insists.
Reflecting on the gender dynamics within the industry, Ruby highlights the importance of fostering a culture of compassion and collaboration. “Gender equality can only be achieved if we shape our industries around compassion and nurturing, sharing knowledge and supporting other women,” she asserts.
In the face of growing consumer demand for sustainability, Ruby acknowledges the need for greater transparency and education within the industry. She emphasises, “One of the biggest challenges we’re currently facing is the need to educate consumers; to equip them with the knowledge they need to navigate a heavily greenwashed market.”
For Ruby, inspiration comes not only from the exquisite craftsmanship of her colleagues but also from the diverse voices and perspectives that shape the wedding industry. “We are all valuable assets in a sturdy, interwoven net that uplifts me every day,” she reflects.
Ruby recognises the profound influence of the wedding industry, particularly on young girls. She remarks, “For so many little girls, the wedding realm is a source of aspiration, awe and inspiration from a young age; its influence on these impressionable brains is not to be underestimated.” She believes that seeing diverse representations in the industry is crucial for fostering feelings of self-worth and empowerment.
As she continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the jewellery industry, Ruby remains committed to authenticity and innovation. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple yet profound: “It’s crucial that you are authentic and unique… Once you’ve found what makes you unparalleled and you believe in it, you are unstoppable.”
In her quest for inclusivity, Ruby and Lebrusan Studio have actively worked to amplify LGBTQ+ voices within the bridal jewellery space. She shares, “We’re aware that LGBTQ+ visibility is insufficient within the bridal jewellery industry so we strive actively for better inclusivity within our own business.” From gender-neutral love rings to dedicated resources for LGBTQ+ couples, Ruby’s commitment to diversity and representation shines through in every facet of her business.
Kerri O’Brien: Francis + Louise, Contemporary Luxury Accessories
Celebrating its sixth year in operation, Francis + Louise is more than just a business for Kerri O’Brien; it’s a passion project born out of a love for design and a desire to create something truly unique. With a background in print design for the fashion industry, including collaborations with renowned brands like Calvin Klein and Anthropologie, Kerri transitioned into the world of weddings after designing her own bespoke print for her wedding. “Our wedding was featured on the wedding blog Love My Dress,” she recalls, “and from there, I got my first international order.”
From those humble beginnings, Francis + Louise has grown into a thriving venture, offering both ready-to-wear collections and bespoke print design services. What sets Kerri’s brand apart is not just its aesthetic appeal but also its commitment to sustainability and traceability. “I’m really proud that all my products are made, designed and printed in the UK,” she explains. “The traceability and sustainability of my products are something really important to me and are clearly important to my customers too.”
As a woman navigating the wedding industry, Kerri has found support and camaraderie among her peers. “Everyone is really supportive,” she says, “and I have made lots of amazing friends and been able to collaborate with other business owners, many of them female founders.”
However, running a business single-handedly comes with its challenges, especially when juggling multiple responsibilities. “When you are managing all aspects of your business… it is impossible to not feel clouded, confused and overwhelmed at times,” Kerri admits. Yet, she finds solace in yoga, meditation, and connecting with fellow creatives. “Sometimes just talking to someone else in the same boat makes it so much better and problems are solved quicker,” she adds.
Kerri is deeply committed to challenging the entrenched gender roles that dominate the wedding industry. She reflects on the prevalent portrayal of women in traditional roles in films, literature and magazines, where brides are often depicted as being “given away” by their fathers and where virginal white remains the norm for wedding dresses. This pervasive imagery influences couples’ choices for their own weddings, perpetuating a narrow definition of what a wedding should look like.
However, Kerri sees her products as a refreshing departure from these conventions. “I love that my products often bring a strong influence of colour into a ceremony,” she says. Through her bespoke print designs, she offers couples the opportunity to break away from tradition and express their unique personalities and styles. Kerri finds that her design service particularly resonates with couples seeking a less traditional approach to their special day.
Attending events like the Un-Wedding Show, which celebrates modern and independent wedding suppliers, Kerri recognises the growing demand for alternative wedding experiences. Yet, she acknowledges that there is still a lack of representation of less-traditional female roles within the industry as a whole. By actively promoting inclusivity and diversity through her work, Kerri hopes to inspire a shift towards more progressive and inclusive weddings.
Despite the challenges, Kerri remains grateful for the opportunity to pursue her passion while balancing work and family life. “I feel very grateful I get to do something I love every day and am able to work it around my kids,” she says.
Looking ahead, Kerri is committed to empowering other women in business and encouraging them to value their worth. “I would encourage all female business owners to be more bold with their prices from the start,” she advises. “Price your worth and wealth of experience.”
Through her dedication to craftsmanship and inclusivity, Kerri O’Brien is not just creating beautiful prints; she’s crafting memories that will last a lifetime for couples around the world.
Holly Miller: Cake Design by Holly Miller
For Holly Miller, the allure of entrepreneurship lies in the freedom it offers – the flexibility to balance her thriving cake business with the joys of motherhood. “Running my own business enables me to be at home with my children when they need me,” she shares, relishing the autonomy of setting her own rules in the ever-evolving wedding industry.
Her passion for crafting exquisite confections has earned her prestigious accolades, including the title of TWIA National Wedding Cake Designer of the Year 2024. “Becoming the best in my field,” Holly reflects, “fuels my obsession to succeed.”
As a woman who is unapologetically outspoken and fiercely independent, Holly occasionally grapples with perceptions of being too forward. “I remind myself,” she asserts, “that I am a strong-minded, badass businesswoman.” For Holly, motivation is innate and intrinsic, stemming from her unwavering dedication to her craft. “My business is like my baby,” she admits, “and I live and breathe it.”
In an industry brimming with creativity, Holly finds inspiration in the success stories of fellow female entrepreneurs. “It truly shows women can do it all,” she declares, celebrating their achievements as key figures in fabulous brands and businesses.
Despite the demands of entrepreneurship, Holly prioritises downtime with her family, recognising the importance of unplugging from work. “Days out, board games, dog walks,” she lists, cherishing moments of respite away from the bustle of business.
Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs echoes her own journey – resilience, focus and an unwavering work ethic are the ingredients for success. “Just go for it!” she urges, a testament to her own remarkable ascent from baking cakes for her kids’ birthdays to becoming a nationally acclaimed cake designer.
Pollyanna Montagu: Pollyanna Harmsworth, Fine Stationers
For Pollyanna Montagu, founder of Pollyanna Harmsworth, Fine Stationers, the journey into entrepreneurship began with a childhood dream of independence and autonomy. “From a very young age, when all my friends wanted to be ballerinas, I wanted to be a businesswoman!” she reminisces, highlighting her early inclination towards forging her own path. Owning her own business serves as her sanctuary, a space where she can express herself freely and pursue her passion for fine stationery.
Celebrating 15 years of entrepreneurial success stands as Pollyanna’s most cherished achievement. Through the highs and lows, she remains steadfast in her dedication to her craft and the relationships she has cultivated along the way.
Navigating the printing industry poses its challenges, with misconceptions often clouding perceptions of her expertise. Yet, Pollyanna’s depth of knowledge and passion for her craft shines through, dispelling any doubts with her insightful contributions.
Supported by her family and a trusted mentor, Pollyanna finds strength in the encouragement of her loved ones and the guidance of a seasoned confidante. Their unwavering support fuels her determination to overcome obstacles and pursue her aspirations.
As a woman in business, Pollyanna recognises the importance of female representation in navigating delicate conversations and fostering inclusivity. Her tactful approach and sensitivity to others’ needs contribute to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and understood.
Balancing work commitments with family time remains a priority for Pollyanna, with a newfound determination to be fully present with her children, free from distractions. Despite the demands of entrepreneurship, she strives to honour her commitments to her family and be present for life’s precious moments.
Reflecting on her journey, Pollyanna offers a simple yet powerful message to aspiring entrepreneurs: “Go for it.” With unwavering determination and a passion for her craft, she encourages others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
In Pollyanna’s world, weddings represent joyous celebrations of life and love, where diversity is embraced and every detail is crafted with elegance and care. Through her work, she creates timeless pieces that celebrate the unique love stories of each couple, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and celebration.
Genevieve Hawks: Queen Bea Photography
For Genevieve Hawks, Queen Bea Photography, venturing into wedding photography stemmed from personal experiences. “I had a lot of negative experiences when planning my own wedding (to another woman),” she shares candidly, reflecting on the lack of diversity she encountered in the industry back in 2018. Determined to carve her own path, Genevieve discovered her passion for photography upon returning from her honeymoon – a decision she has never regretted.
With over 200 weddings under her belt, Genevieve’s journey has been both exhilarating and challenging. “All the misogyny,” she laments, recounting instances of unwarranted questioning and condescension from male wedding guests. Despite the frustrations, Genevieve remains steadfast in her love for photography and her commitment to creating an inclusive space for couples.
In an industry predominantly led by women, Genevieve finds solace in the camaraderie and support of her peers. “It’s a lovely community,” she remarks, highlighting the importance of representation and listening to the diverse voices of brides.
Balancing her passion with the demands of the job, Genevieve acknowledges the sacrifices involved. “I’m often working well into the evenings,” she admits, a testament to her dedication to her craft.
Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs in the wedding industry is simple yet empowering: “Just believe in yourself and go for it!” Genevieve’s own journey serves as a testament to the power of self-belief and resilience.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community herself, Genevieve is committed to visibility and inclusivity in her work. “I try to always show a mix of couples,” she explains, emphasising the importance of representation in her marketing and social media presence. Through her lens, Genevieve captures not just moments, but stories of love, resilience and authenticity, ensuring that every couple feels seen and celebrated.
Kate Dyer: Kate and Kate Celebrants
Kate Dyer, co-founder of Kate and Kate Celebrants, has always relished the freedom of doing things her own way and avoiding the need to answer to others. For her, owning a business is more than just a venture – it’s a “calm, happy, safe space” where she finds peace and security.
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Kate shares her passion for creating bespoke wedding ceremonies. With fifteen years of experience as a wedding registrar, Kate and her colleague felt compelled to break free from the constraints of the system in 2016 and become Independent Celebrants.
“It was a leap of faith, driven by our determination to give couples the perfect ceremony to start their special day,” she explains. “We had solid relationships with reputable wedding venues, so we embarked on this journey with confidence.”
Kate’s dedication to delivering exceptional ceremonies has earned her a stellar reputation within the industry. “There’s no greater satisfaction than hearing guests declare it the best wedding ever!” she exclaims. Working independently alongside her best friend allows them the freedom to infuse each ceremony with creativity and flair.
“While the creative aspect of our work flourished, navigating the business side presented challenges,” Kate admits. “Business acumen wasn’t our forte, but with free advice and a steep learning curve, we honed our skills in areas like cash-flow forecasting, marketing and SEO.”
Having a supportive partner by her side has been instrumental in overcoming obstacles, especially during the uncertainties brought about by the pandemic. “Our differences complement each other, and knowing we have each other’s backs keeps us resilient in the face of adversity,” she shares.
Kate emphasises the importance of female representation in the UK wedding industry. “By empowering women, the industry becomes more inclusive, diverse and empowering for all involved,” she notes.
Maintaining work-life balance is an ongoing challenge for Kate. “Setting boundaries, staying organised and effective time management are essential,” she explains. “Despite occasional mishaps, like forgetting to pick up my daughter from college, I strive to keep all the plates spinning while acknowledging my limitations.”
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Kate offers this advice: “Seek as much free advice as possible, understand that building a business takes time, and find your tribe of like-minded colleagues for support and camaraderie. Embrace the journey and enjoy the ride!”
“At Kate and Kate Celebrants, love knows no bounds,” Kate concludes. “We celebrate diversity and inclusivity by offering a wide range of options to accommodate different cultures, backgrounds and preferences, ensuring every couple feels valued and respected on their wedding planning journey.”
Louise Quenby: Jackstar Weddings, Wedding DJ Services
For Louise Quenby, at Jackstar Weddings, the journey into entrepreneurship began with a shared passion for creating unforgettable wedding experiences. “Running my own business was something that I had thought about a lot,” she recalls, reflecting on her aspirations from college days. Together with her husband, Jack, whose background as a DJ ignited their path, they ventured into the world of weddings, starting with a white LED dance floor purchase in 2012. As they delved deeper into the wedding scene, attending their first wedding fair marked a significant turning point, propelling their business forward.
Louise’s journey continues to be one of remarkable achievements and ongoing growth. “There are so many [highlights], but the most recent,” she beams, “is that after winning The Wedding Industry Awards for 4 years in a row, I am now a judge. And to add to that, the ONLY female judge on the DJ panel.” Her accolades speak volumes about her expertise and dedication to her craft.
However, Louise acknowledges the challenges that come with balancing a demanding career with motherhood. “My challenge doesn’t link to working within the wedding industry, just working in general,” she reflects. Yet, she remains resilient, constantly striving to find the equilibrium between her professional and personal life.
Setting goals has been instrumental in Louise’s journey. “Each year I sit down and set new goals,” she shares. These goals serve as a guiding light, reminding her of the purpose behind her endeavours and motivating her to push through the tough times.
Despite being a thriving industry, Louise feels that wedding professionals often don’t receive the recognition they deserve. “I feel that the wedding industry is heavily represented in the wedding industry,” she notes wryly, highlighting the misconception that their work is merely a hobby rather than a profession.
For Louise, achieving balance means prioritising time with her family. “For me now though I ensure I take one day off during the week and try to have at least one day off at the weekend,” she explains. Her commitment to spending quality time with her children is unwavering, evident in the deliberate scheduling of holidays and breaks throughout the year.
Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple yet profound: “Write down your dream.” Louise attributes much of her success to this practice, emphasising the importance of turning dreams into tangible goals and taking proactive steps towards realising them.
In her work with couples, Louise embraces diversity and inclusivity. “We have worked with same-sex couples providing their wedding entertainment, along with working with couples from different cultures,” she shares. Celebrating love in all its forms, Louise ensures that each wedding reflects the unique personalities and backgrounds of the couple, creating unforgettable experiences for all involved.
Joanne Dodds: CAVE (Composer, Arranger, Violinist and Educator)
Joanne Dodds, proud founder of CAVE, was a former Royal Navy Warfare Officer who found her true calling in the world of music. “When I left my job,” she recounts, “I wanted to return to my musical roots and started to compose and arrange music for weddings and special events, making couples’ special days even more unique and memorable.” For Joanne, music isn’t just a profession; it’s a passion that adds depth and emotion to life’s most significant moments.
Transitioning to complete self-employment marked a significant milestone in Joanne’s career. She celebrates “becoming completely self-employed and doing what I absolutely adore!” Her versatility as a violinist knows no bounds, as she effortlessly weaves together melodies ranging from AC/DC to Game of Thrones, Billie Eilish to Elvis, infusing each performance with her unique style and flair.
While the wedding industry may be predominantly female-owned, Joanne’s background in male-dominated workplaces has given her a different perspective. “I have always worked in male-dominated workplaces (Royal Navy, Football…),” she notes. However, as a soloist, gender dynamics take a back seat to her love for music and her commitment to providing exceptional service.
Joanne views her role in the music industry as a privilege, recognising the profound impact music has on people’s lives. “Music is a powerful backdrop to all aspects of life,” she reflects. Her calm demeanour and organisational skills, honed through years of experience, ensure smooth sailing even in the busiest of times.
In her experience, Joanne observes that brides often take the lead in booking musical services for their weddings. However, she’s delighted to see an increasing number of grooms surprising their partners with her performances, adding an extra layer of joy to the occasion.
Despite her hectic schedule, Joanne emphasises the importance of self-care. “It has taken me years to learn to slow down and take time for myself,” she admits. Yet, her genuine love for music fuels her passion, turning what could be just a job into a labour of love.
Her advice to aspiring musicians is straightforward: “Just go for it!” Joanne encourages others to pursue their dreams fearlessly, unencumbered by doubts or the safety net of traditional employment.
For Joanne, every wedding is a unique opportunity to showcase the versatility of the violin. “I like to prove that any genre or style of music can be played on the violin,” she asserts. Her commitment to making each wedding as special and personalised as possible reflects her belief that love knows no bounds when it comes to music.
Empowering voices to inspire us all
The voices of these remarkable women in the wedding industry echo themes of passion, resilience and empowerment. From creating bespoke wedding experiences to challenging traditional norms, each entrepreneur has forged her path with determination and creativity. Their stories inspire us to celebrate diversity, embrace inclusivity and pursue our own dreams with unwavering determination. As they continue to shape the landscape of weddings in the UK, their journeys serve as a testament to the transformative power of love, dedication and female leadership in the wedding industry.
