A summer of celebration!

Planning events is something I enjoy, and throughout my working life as an Executive Assistant it was part of my role to ensure that events were meticulously planned. So, in June I put all that experience into planning our own celebration as Marcus and I celebrated our 40th Wedding Anniversary this year - a Ruby Wedding!

Successful events require excellent organisational skills and a blend of creativity, coordination and people management. Key tasks will include booking a venue, setting a budget, creating invitations, choosing menus, wines and soft drink alternatives, communicating with guests on preferences, dietary requirements and allergies, collecting RSVPs, creating seating plans and a party theme. Software can assist with this, and a good spreadsheet helps keep things organised.

Day by day planning, particularly in the last couple of weeks before the event, should be factored in, to ensure that seating plans, table signs and decorations can be finalised, signage and music set up and final discussions held with the venue hosts on the timings for the day.

Of course, it is the final little touches that make every party perfect and focusing on your guests to ensure they enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere will guarantee happy memories for all.

Our party was a fabulous celebration of 40 years, held on

the Roof Terrace and Marquee of the Island Sailing Club, Cowes.

Our thanks to all the team at the Club.