We thought it was time to shine the spotlight on one of our wonderfully talented on-site Wedding Coordinators, Jo Royal. Working from behind the scenes, Jo collaborates with our couples from day one to the wedding day itself to create their perfect Pynes House Wedding (check out some of our real weddings here). From managing suppliers to calming nerves on the big day, she works around the clock to make sure everything runs smoothly. Read on to hear more about her experiences and how she’ll make your day one to remember…
How did you get into the wedding industry?
From early on in my life I had been immersed in vibrant celebrations, with a large extended family hailing from all over the world. Building relationships and connections is integral to my being. As a natural organiser gathering people together is my passion, both in my professional and personal life.
On my return to England, I settled in Devon with my family. During this time I kind of stumbled into co-ordinating weddings for a friend’s catering event company Dartmoor Kitchen on a freelance basis. Seven years ago, after working alongside Dartmoor Kitchen and planning some of their weddings, I decided to set up on my own and become an independent Wedding Coordinator.
What does your job as a wedding coordinator involve?
Every couple is unique. As a wedding coordinator I believe in true collaboration, so listening closely to the couple’s vision for their wedding to ensure that I can create this is key. It is the most important part of the job.
In the lead up to the BIG DAY I will have been talking to all the suppliers to check that they are on board with the couple’s wishes, all the correct paperwork is in place and all are comfortable with the wedding day’s timeline. This may involve visiting the venue alongside suppliers and the Bride and Groom. On the day before the wedding I will be at the venue, ensuring all the setup is complete. We will also have a run through of the ceremony and tweak any last minute schedule changes.
On the day, I arrive in the morning and quickly scoot around checking everyone’s nerves are calm! My job now is to guide and hold the day for the couple. I will discreetly handle any unexpected eventualities, so they can relax and have the BEST DAY ever! I will often be found holding a baby whilst the speeches are on… you really go the extra mile in this job!
Best part of the wedding day?
My favourite part of the wedding day is the morning. The hustle and bustle, the chefs, florists and photographers arriving. It has a feel of total love and excitement for what the day ahead holds. It’s full of promise, laughter and sometimes tears (of joy!). The anticipation of months of planning coming together with all their families and friends… just fabulous.
Tell us about one your most memorable weddings
It was with a Latin American couple. She wore an incredible Spanish style wedding dress that was, (I later realised) made with the sole purpose for dancing. The wedding was loud, full of chatter and colour from the outset. After the Wedding Breakfast all the guests were invited into the garden for mojitos whilst the band set up. Then they were all told in no uncertain terms that every single one of them were to dance all night… I could see the grandmas laughing and shaking their heads.
The couple lead their guests back into the barn where a Salsa band was waiting for them with Salsa teachers…. the rest is history. I can honestly say I have never seen everyone at a wedding dance for the majority of the evening, even the 87 year old grandmas and grandpas – amazing, a whirlwind! I do have some other memorable weddings but maybe not for here!
What do you love most about being a wedding coordinator at Pynes House?
Pynes House is a truly wonderful house to have the honour of working with. It is an understatement to say it is beautiful. From the moment you approach the drive you know! The house was made for celebrations. The rooms flow effortlessly into each other, creating a movement during a wedding day that is natural and seamless.
The light is fabulous. Vast windows invite you to feast your eyes on the rolling hills of Devon, the beautiful terrace and par terre. The design is such that service is discreet and guests are kept interested by changing locations, gently moving from one glorious room to another. The bar is tucked beautifully by the sweeping staircase making it central to all the activity. The house oozes homeliness too, restored lovingly by the owners in gorgeous palettes that compliment any styling.
And last but not least the team! Pickle Shack, the caterers are just wonderful. The chefs are incredibly passionate, the front of house are smiley, chatty and knowledgeable. The whole of the Pynes House team pulls together on wedding days – a true collaborative. There is always a lot of laughter.
What are you most looking forward to about 2021 weddings?
Mmmm 2021…I’m just simply looking forward to seeing everyone again! To ease ourselves back into some kind of normal, but maybe with slight changes. To appreciate the stuff of life a little more than before…
We’re excited to see everyone again too and we’re so happy to be reopening our doors! We’d love to show you round, why not get in touch? Or for some more wedding inspiration have a peek at our Pocket Guide to Wedding Planning and venue rundown on the blog.
Image credits: Image 1 by A Long Tall Legged Bird Photography / Image 2 by Miss Gen Photography / Image 3 by Claire Pepper / Image 4 by Abi and Keith Riley Photography / Image 5 by Miss Gen Photography / Image 6 by Tom & Lizzie Redman Photography / Image 7 by Claire Pepper