We hear from our operations team and wedding planner, Kathy Lucking at Osprey Hotel.
What does a wedding planner do and why is it that you do it?
As a wedding co-ordinator I am the first point of contact for the potential couple at Osprey Hotel. I help the couple decide on the perfect space for their special day, including menus, layout and design, guest numbers, décor and much more. I really enjoy my job as it can be a very rewarding position to see a wedding through from the organisation process to seeing the happy couple enjoying their day with friends and loved ones.
Will you walk me through a typical day (if there is such a thing!)?
Tasks can vary such as show arounds for potential couples, meeting with suppliers to discuss photography, décor etc. planning of the menus with our Chef, arranging contracts with clients, booking guestrooms or spa treatments. In essence there is no typical day as each wedding is unique in it’s own way.
Walk me through the series of events before the wedding day at Osprey?
- The initial enquiry happens usually via our website, by dropping by or by calling the hotel.
- A show around is then organised for the couple or individual to get a feel for the venue and meet our coordinators.
- Once happy with the venue, our wedding options and securing a date, we continue to contract signing.
- From there we have on-going communication with our couples via virtual appointments or on site up until the day of the wedding, this would be to confirm numbers, menu choices, room layouts, décor and more!
- A menu tasting is organised at the hotel once menu options have been confirmed for the couple.
- We then have a final wedding meeting closer to the day to iron out any of the finer details and ensure our couple is happy with everything.
- We often have celebrations arranged for day two, so in this case, this will be discussed in advance of the main wedding day.
- Our team are on hand on the day and in advance for any last minute requests or changes.
What is the best part of your day?
The best part of the day is making our couples happy and making their experience with our team as seamless and enjoyable as possible. We love feedback following the wedding day itself, it’s always a pleasure to read such lovely comments and reviews. Equally when our guests share their photos and videos with us, it’s rewarding to see how happy they are on the day.
How many weddings have you planned?
I’ve lost count! I believe somewhere between 200-300 weddings over my time in wedding planning and I’ve enjoyed each and every one.
Do you work with a team? Will they be on-site at the wedding?
Our dedicated hotel Operations team run the wedding day and are always on hand to look after any request from our couples, whether it’s a last minute addition to the service offering, losing a button on a suit, we are here to make your day as stress-free as possible so we will do our utmost to ensure you have the best wedding experience.
What is unique at Osprey Hotel?
Our stunning newly refurbished ballroom was transformed earlier this year and was designed by celebrity architect and star of RTE’s’ Home of the Year’, Hugh Wallace of Douglas Wallace Architects.
Stretching to almost 6,000 sq ft the function room, we have created an elegant and contemporary multifunctional space which is one of the finest ballrooms in Leinster.
How many times do you typically meet with clients during the planning process?
Each client and couple are different in their needs, but on average we would meet between 4-6 times before the wedding day itself.
What is your secret for staying calm under pressure?
Preparation is key, along side clear and open communication. Our team are Osprey are a pleasure to work with which makes my job easier. We all the have the same goal in making our couple’s day one to fondly remember.
What is an all inclusive wedding? (referring perfectly complete package)
An all inclusive package is the perfect opportunity to have all of the couple requests met and organised for a set price, rather than having to organise some services separately. All you have to do is choose from a fantastic selection of services that make up the perfect day.
Do you cater for small/intimate weddings?
Yes, absolutely. That is what makes Osprey Hotel unique, we have a number of versatile spaces catering for the small intimate parties right up to very large celebrations. We are currently working on an intimate inclusive package offering so watch this space!
Advice to couples on preparing for their wedding day / How to budget for your big day.
Stick to your own ideas and stay with what you both like, rather that what suppliers tell you you need or current trends.
If you’d like to arrange a show around of Osprey Hotel and our beautiful new ballroom and courtyard areas, contact our friendly wedding team today. Our team have helped to arrange everything from intimate family dinners and large scale, weddings and no request is too much to ask. We are always on hand to answer questions or ease those last-minute jitters.
Call or email our wedding team today and see for yourself why Osprey Hotel in Kildare is a perfect location for your big day.
