What is your most memorable wedding?
I'd have to say my own otherwise my wife would kill me! It was in Ashdown Park Hotel August 2004 - and of course we had a casino. We also themed the tables with card suits.
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Stylish, authentic, friendly, memorable, fun
What about your business are you most proud of?
That we have supplied good quality and professionally run fun casinos since 1994. We have a 100% reliability record - weather has never been an issue for us - even in deep snow and down winding lanes - we've got there!
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Try not to have too many forms of entertainment - put your budget with suppliers who look reliable, who will answer the phone, and respond to your emails quickly - they are running a business, not a hobby, as some do. Remember, if you book just on price, then you will get what you pay for... There's a reason why suppliers will ask for a deposit. It is a professional commitment forming a contractual agreement - a bit like getting married. :-)
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
I've organised themed casino wedding parties for several couples who got married in Vegas and wanted to recreate the atmosphere back in the UK for the guests who didn't fly over for the ceremony. One couple got married as Marilyn Monroe and Elvis in the Little White Chapel and I organised large photographic displays of their wedding picture as part of the casino area and on the fun money and chips.
Describe your typical process with a couple.
We get their enquiry, call to arrange for the Lear jet to pick them up at a local airfield, invite them to visit the Casino in Monte Carlo to test the gaming tables out and to see whether they are lucky in love, feed them with champagne and caviar and fly them back home. (Not true, unfortunately, but we'd like to do this) Suffice to say, we aim to make sure that our couples are very happy at every stage of their booking - from the very first enquiry right through to follow up feedback request after their special day. It's their day and we are proud to be part of it.
What is your No. 1 top tip for keeping a crowd entertained?
Well that would be ensuring you book enough casino tables for all the guests. It's always surprising when the happy couple gasp to see how popular this form of entertainment is - we get fantastic feedback.
Where is the most memorable place you have performed?
Wow, too many to choose from. Notable ones: The Shard, St Paul's Cathedral Crypt, Blenheim, Goodwood House and Racecourse, many back gardens in marquees, Thames Boats, Bloomsbury Ballroom, all the top Mayfair hotels, and 5 Star hotels in Provence, Jersey, Paris and one on a Napolean Fort in the middle of the Channel which is now a fantastic boutique hotel. Ashdown Park Hotel is clearly special for us too.
Have you had any interesting surprises at a wedding?
Chinese lanterns that were lit outside got caught in a wind and blew back towards the guests and set fire to a tree not that far away from the venue.
What is your party trick?
Keeping the entertainment stylish. To make sure every guest, whatever age, in whatever language enjoys themselves at our casino tables. We can't affect their luck but we can ensure a smile. :-)