Supplier Spotlight: Katie Flanagan Wedding Celebrant
Kate Flanagan, Independent Wedding Celebrant, Settle, Ribble Valley, Skipton, Wennington
Editor's Note: Right then, brides and grooms to be! Grab yourselves a proper cuppa, get comfy, and settle in. Today the tables are officially turned because we are putting our very own Editor-in-Chief, Katie Flanagan, right in the hot seat.
Think of Katie as your ultimate wedding fairytale godmother—if your fairytale involves no strangers, less rigid rules, the right vibe and a lot more laughter, authenticity, and personality!
It is probably your first time planning a wedding, but Katie is a former wedding manager and in-house celebrant, she has planned, delivered, coordinated, and officiated at hundreds of weddings for all kinds of couples. So you and your wedding are in incredibly safe hands! Katie's version of a fairytale wedding completely bins the stuffy, boring traditions and instead puts your vibe, your core values, personalities, humours and your actual love story right at the centre of the day.
As a former luxury country estate Wedding Manager turned award-winning Independent Celebrant, Katie knows the UK wedding industry completely inside out. Operating right where the vibrant Lancashire borders meet the gorgeous, rugged Yorkshire Dales and the stunning Lake District, she brings her signature warmth and storytelling magic to couples marrying across the Ribble Valley, Settle, Skipton, Gisburn, Wennington, Kendal, and the South Lakes.
Katie is more than happy to travel beyond the Yorkshire and Lancashire area, covering the while UK, as well as destination weddings worldwide.
Let’s dive straight into her wedding secrets, local planning hacks, and why the old wedding script is officially being thrown out the window.
Katie’s Vibe
Q: Describe your ceremony style.
A: My style is built entirely around you and creating an immersive guest experience that makes you two and your love story the absolute main characters. I’ve seen too many strangers stand and read a template at couples, guests are bored stiff, I don’t believe your guests should just sit there passively watching a rigid script play out. Instead, I design a custom-written ceremony that completely wraps everybody up in your world and from the very first second, they are onboard! By putting your journey under the spotlight, your guests feel like an active, emotional part of the magic rather than just a crowd waiting for the drinks reception to start. Most importantly, you are in the driving seat — you choose the ceremony time, you choose the location for the ceremony (licensed or unlicensed), you choose the content, no music or words are banned.
Q: What made you transition from running luxury venues to standing at the front as a celebrant?
A: During my time as a luxury country house Wedding Manager, my team and I built absolutely amazing relationships with our couples. We spent months getting to know them inside out, we knew all their secrets, their unique vibes, their core values, their personalities, their senses of humour, their faiths, their families, and their beautiful love stories. We were even sworn to secrecy on a few pregnancies!
But then, minutes before the ceremony was due to start, we had to hand over our lovely couple to two complete strangers with a rigid, content-policed process for the most important bit of the entire day. When you deliver hundreds of weddings each year and you constantly see that exact same disconnect, everyone goes a bit ‘airport security’, you reach a turning point: you either become part of the problem, or you do something about it.
I chose to do something about it. I wanted to mend that disconnect entirely. I wanted to keep the wedding energy consistently high, from bridal squad hair and MUA and right through the day, rather than watching it take a massive dip during a boring ceremony. I stepped up to the altar because I wanted to create a ceremony that actually fit the couple, matched their personalities, and set the perfect tone for the rest of their amazing celebration.
Q: Who is your absolute dream couple to work with, and who is definitely not your vibe?
A: Let’s be completely honest, I am not "the show"! So if you’re a couple looking for a theatrical, crazy haired, OTT staged 'act', that’s simply not my bag. I am a modern storyteller with a warm Yorkshire vibe (think Jane McDonald if she did weddings). My job is to weave your actual, beautiful love story into a bespoke wedding ceremony infused entirely with your unique vibe, your quirks, your personalities, and your core values.
It will look, sound, and feel completely like yours, immersing your friends and family from the second they take their seats. By the time we're done, your guests will be saying it's the best wedding they've ever been to! My absolute dream couples are intentional; they do things because of the genuine sentiment behind them, they love adventure, slow intentional living, and they might have a fur baby they want to involve at some point!
Q: You didn't just stop at becoming a celebrant; you founded Celebrant Led Digital Wedding Magazine. How does the mag actually help couples plan a personal, intentional, and immersive wedding ceremony?
A: I built it because I realised couples needed a sanctuary away from the rigid, outdated establishment rules. I wanted to create a high-end digital magazine and matchmaker that empowers you to build an unconventional ceremony from the ground up. Through Celebrant Led, we actively connect couples with the wedding suppliers and venues who love celebrant led weddings.
The mag is full of wedding planning inspiration and trends, tips, guides, wedding industry insider secrets, dream venues, supplier spotlights and much more! Check out Celebrant Led Magazine.
Q: What geographical areas do you cover? Is there a limit to how far you'll travel?
A: I’m a Yorkshire Dales Lass, but I live on the edges of the Ribble Valley and South Lakes. I’m the premier wedding celebrant across the Ribble Valley, Wennington, Kendal, Skipton and Settle. I’m a regular at the fabulous James’ Places Dream Venues and I live less than 60 seconds away from the Falcon Manor, Settle — so if you’re looking for a sustainable celebrant, you can’t get closer than me!
I will travel anywhere for a love story, UK or destination weddings abroad. Wherever you want to say your vows, whether it's a barn in the Yorkshire Dales, country house in Lancashire, a chic London loft, a vineyard in Tuscany, or a beach in Cornwall —I’ll be there. Distance is no object when it comes to a great love story.
Q: Having a deep background as a luxury country house Wedding Manager is gold. How does that operational experience protect your couples?
A: Wedding operations and logistics are my absolute superpower. Before taking the leap to become a full-time independent celebrant, I was the Wedding Manager at a luxury country estate with three wedding coordinators reporting directly to me. Together, we planned and operationally delivered hundreds of weddings, and I even trained with the International College of Professional Celebrants and became the in-house celebrant to officiate them!
Because of that background, I see every single second of a wedding day through expert operational eyes. I can spot and solve a potential problem before it has even had a chance to cross your mind! While other celebrants only understand the words written on their page, I’m tracking the venue staff, the photographer's angles with the sun, the musician, and the room's energy. I’ve seen it all, run it all, and fixed it all. It means you get to stand at the altar with total, stress-free "main character" energy, knowing the ceremony is completely under control. You just focus on each other; I’ve got the rest sorted.
I’ve already had to turn down one date in March 2027 three times so far this year, so make sure you get in touch with me as early as you can to avoid disappointment!
🏛️ Busting the "Celebrant Myth" & The Legal Bit
Q: What is the single biggest misconception couples have when they hear the word "Celebrant"?
A: They assume a celebrant ceremony is "fake, when it’s actually the complete opposite! It’s the most authentic, real ceremony you will ever experience, because it is written exclusively for and about you.
The alternative is a rigid, 13-minute legal box-ticking exercise led by complete strangers following a strict, unchangeable process. Traditional registry options can leave guests feeling a bit bored, while your location, timing, and even your music choices are fully controlled and restricted by the establishment. A celebrant wedding hands the steering wheel completely back to you.
Q: How does a celebrant-led wedding work for couples planning a destination wedding abroad?
A: Oh, it is the ultimate stress-saver for destination weddings! Trying to navigate local legalities, language barriers, and foreign registry paperwork in another country can be an absolute nightmare.
Instead, my couples do the quick, £62 statutory legal bit here in the UK before they go. Then, we all jet off. Because I already know you inside out, your destination ceremony is delivered flawlessly in English, completely customised to you, and free from any rigid foreign legal restrictions. You get to have your dream ceremony under the Italian sun or overlooking a Greek beach, completely on your own terms!
Q: How do you explain the financial and legal side to couples marrying in the UK who are worried their families will think it's not "official"?
A: Couples are frequently shocked to find out that cost of a celebrant AND the 2+2 statutory ceremony is frequently cheaper than just having the registrar attend the venue and read the boring government template at you! The value in a Celebrant led ceremony is huge, because you are buying 100% freedom — you choose the ceremony time, the location, there is no restricted content, spontaneous vows are allowed, music containing religious wording isn’t banned. Your ceremony isn’t on a clock and it can breathe.
As a wedding manager I never saw registrars thanked by family or guests for a wonderful or amazing ceremony, because it’s always the same templates delivered... and it’s far from amazing. As a celebrant I cannot tell you how many family and guests have made a point of thanking me and expressing how much they enjoyed the ceremony. I’ve had couples and one Mother of the Bride spontaneously hug me and express their absolute delight, before exiting down the aisle at the end of the ceremony.
So how do you do a 2 part wedding? In the UK, you register the legal marriage separately. You just book a basic statutory 2+2 ceremony at your local register office (which costs just £62 plus the standard fee per person to give notice). You still need to give notice and you must book a date for your ceremony. Go in your casual clothes (or full wedding attire if you wish) with two witnesses, sign the paperwork, and handle the legal paperwork, you can read more about the 2+2 statutory ceremony here.
That means your actual wedding day is completely freed from legal tape. Your family won't think it's fake for a single second; they'll be completely blown away by how emotional it is and how much it actually feels like you.
Q: You focus exclusively on weddings and don’t offer funeral services like many other celebrants do. What led to that decision?
A: That was a very deliberate boundary for me. While conducting funerals is an honour and others juggle funerals and weddings, my office operates on a strict, uncompromised rule: 100% weddings and happy ceremonies such as vow renewals and naming ceremonies only. With my extensive background, weddings are my absolute superpower, so it made no sense to dilute my expertise and pivot to include the somber celebrations of life.
Writing and delivering a deeply emotional or harrowing funeral service requires an immense amount of emotional input. Grief is incredibly heavy. I strongly believe that there are inevitable, invisible trace elements of "grief transfer" that can happen if a celebrant is juggling writing or conducting a difficult funeral right around the same time they are supposed to be crafting or delivering your wedding script and I don’t want to risk anything affecting your wedding ceremony.
Q: How does that strict "weddings-only" policy benefit the couples who book you?
A: It means your wedding ceremony never has to share an office, a laptop, or an emotional headspace with sorrow.
By dedicating my practice entirely to the happy celebrations of life, I can guarantee that the energy I bring into your planning space fits your vibe. When I sit down to write your love story, my mind is entirely clear of the shadows of loss. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and it deserves a celebrant who is 100% focused on your happiness and your future!
💡 The Masterclass: Pro Tips & Local Advice
Q: Given our notoriously unpredictable English weather, what is your top advice for couples planning an outdoor ceremony in the North, from the Ribble Valley up to Kendal?
A: You need a seamless contingency plan, darling. Choose a backup space and decor setup that can easily moved and become a simple, beautiful "Plan B" without causing any logistical fuss or panic on the morning of.
Lean into the climate: consider providing umbrellas or fans for your guests. It’s England—there are some days you might genuinely need both at the exact same time! Crucially, make sure your live musicians or DJ have a canopy over their heads and are utilising a high-quality, completely wireless amplifier setup so they can move easily if the wind or rain shifts.
Q: What is one wedding industry tradition you wish couples would officially bin because it kills the ceremony vibe?
A: The rigid registrar restrictions. When the registrars arrive at a venue there is a disconnect and an energy change that is palpable, not just for the couple, but for the entire wedding team, the venue staff, the musicians, the photographers, the videographers, and the content creators all deflate when a couple of strangers are added to what has felt like a really lovely and supportive, private members club!
When it’s celebrant led, everyone can finally breathe! The photographer isn't being yelled at about where they can stand or for clicking the camera shutter too much, the venue team isn't stressed about the strict council clock ticking (registrars rush off to other venues to read the same script again, and again) and as a result, your suppliers can actually relax and do what they do best.
Q: Can I find recommendations for celebrant friendly UK wedding venues and suppliers on Celebrant Led?
A: Absolutely! That is exactly why Celebrant Led was born. Celebrant Led is fast becoming the premier hub for couples looking to book their wedding day 'Dream Team'. We don't just list anyone; we actively curate and recommend exceptional UK wedding venues and suppliers who genuinely champion modern, celebrant-led weddings.
Whether you are searching for a hidden gem venue in the Ribble Valley, a wild hillside setting in Settle, or an open-air lawn near Kendal, our directory connects you with suppliers who know exactly how a celebrant led wedding day works without the stress.
Q: Are you inclusive, and do you specialise in non-traditional ceremonies?
If you are searching for a wedding celebrant who specialises in non-traditional ceremonies, you want someone who is deeply inclusive, completely unflappable, and entirely open to out-of-the-box thinking.
As a professional celebrant I make sure your ceremony is entirely about you two. That means I don't box you into a specific category. Your ceremony can be completely traditional, wildly non-traditional, or a gorgeous blend of both. We can weave in elements from all things, whether that’s a modern twist on a classic custom, something quirky you’ve just invented, or ‘tying the knot’ in a meaningful hand-fasting ritual of old.
I am not biased or fazed by neurodivergence, a crying toddler, or a grandad with dementia... or all three simultaneously. Whatever happens, I just adapt with warmth, humour, and grace, ensuring every single guest feels welcome.
📞 How to Book Katie Flanagan
Click here to find out more about Katie Flanagan Celebrant or to check date availability click here
Premier Independent Wedding Celebrant services across the Ribble Valley, Settle, Skipton, Gisburn, Wennington, Kendal, South Lakes, UK wide, and Destination Weddings Worldwide.
Meet the Wedding Team - James Li, Carlton Manor
James Li, Wedding Coordinator, Carlton Manor, Hull - Photo credit: Vicky Benge
Get to know James, the man behind the dream weddings at Carlton Manor, and find out all the best wedding secrets!
Capacities & Spaces
Q Venue Location: Where in the UK can we find you?
Aldbrough, East Riding of Yorkshire
Q Venue Capacity: Maximum guest numbers for the ceremony and the wedding breakfast?
Intimate Barn Weddings of up to 60 daytime and 100 evening
Tipi Weddings of up to 120 daytime and 200 evening
Q The Ceremony Spaces: Do you offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces?
Yes, our ceremony Barn is a perfect space for ceremonies
We also have a lawned area by a large Oak tree for outside ceremonies
Q The Accomodation: Do you have any on site?
We can accommodate up to 83 guests onsite. Our elegant Manor House has up to 11 rooms, sleeping up to 24 guests. The house also has plenty of communal spaces for guests to gather the day before or after the wedding celebrations have finished.
We also have 12 glamping pods. These vary in sizes from 2 person all the way up to our family pods that sleep up to 7. Our pods are all ensuite and include a kitchenette, underfloor heating, tv and wifi.
All of our accommodation is located onsite so no travelling required!
Photography credits: Vicky Benge Photography and Sam Chipman Photography
Venue Highlights
Q The Standout Feature:
What is the one feature of your venue that couples always fall in love with?
Our Tipis certainly have the wow factor for couples looking for a unique wedding space but our Manor House will always be the part of the venue our couples fall in love with. From the individually styled bedrooms to the large guest kitchen and communal spaces. Perfect for guests to gather the night before the wedding.
The Pro Tips
Q Top tip: What is your top piece of advice for couples planning their wedding?
It may sound very cliché but do what makes you both happy! It is so easy to get lost in planning a wedding and trying to keep everyone happy. Ultimately, your guests will be happy just being there to celebrate your big day!
As a true Yorkshireman, I would also have to offer a money saving tip!
Think of how you can repurpose your décor from your ceremony. Many couples will plan for styling to be used for the wedding breakfast and evening reception.
Q The Innovation: What is the most ‘genius’ wedding planning move or cost-saver you’ve seen a couple pull off?
Catering for your big day can be quite overwhelming as costs can soon start mounting up as you add on all of the additional extras.
A lovely couple I worked with kept their catering costs down by providing their own platters for the reception. They sourced locally made sausage rolls, pork pies and artisan breads. This was a great idea as an alternative to canapes.
They also then asked guests to bring a dessert for the wedding. They were all placed on tables and became the couple’s dessert table. Score cards were provided by the couple and post wedding breakfast, the couple announced the winning dessert. Very much in keeping with The Great British Bake Off!
Q Where should a couple spend their entertainment budget for maximum impact?
Live music is always a winner in my view as it just lifts a wedding day to another level. With this in mind, plan for when you would like live music. My preference would always be for the ceremony, drinks reception and evening reception.
Photo booths are always popular too. Guests love having fun photos taken and it can double up as a photo guest book too which means the couple leave with a keepsake of their special day.
“Burying a sausage the night before the wedding. Anything which helps ensure it doesn’t rain on the wedding day is a bonus in my eyes. I even have a designated sausage plot where this is done at Carlton Manor!”
Style & Trends
Q Best aisle entrance song?
Ruelle – I get to Love You
Q Best aisle exit song?
Natalie Cole – This Will Be (an everlasting love)
Q Favourite colour scheme?
I am all about the bold and vibrant colours. The more fun and different, the better. Think eclectic wildflowers and bold accent colours for chair sashes and table runners!
Q Favourite wedding cake flavour?
My all time favourite was a banoffee wedding cake!
Q What favours do guests actually keep?
I always recommend wedding favours that can either be eaten or drunk. Little sweet bags, personalised biscuits or shots of your favourite drink always go down well.
Traditions
Q One ‘Old’ tradition you still love.
Burying a sausage the night before the wedding. Anything which helps ensure it doesn’t rain on the wedding day is a bonus in my eyes. I even have a designated sausage plot where this is done at Carlton Manor!
Q One ‘New’ tradition you’re currently obsessed with?
I will always love seeing stunning wedding cakes, but I do love how ingenious couples are now becoming with this tradition. Couples opting for something different have created cakes of cheese and pork pie cakes. Other alternatives have been towers of cupcakes or doughnuts.
The Ceremony:
Q Everyone working on the wedding floor loves a Celebrant Led wedding, why do you love them?
Although civil ceremonies are still lovely, they do become a little repetitive. What I love the most about a celebrant led ceremony is how bespoke they are for each couple. I love how a celebrant will sit down with a couple and find out all about them and what makes them tick. They will then create an amazing ceremony which they will be happy with, rather than feeling shoehorned into a ceremony that might not be what they want. Every celebrant led ceremony I have been a part of has been different. Some couples still opt for more of a traditional ceremony but add a handfasting or sand ceremony. Others throw in more unusual things. My favourite was when a couple had the rings tied to toy dinosaurs which were passed round the guests while the Jurassic Park theme tune was played!
These are the things which truly make a ceremony memorable.
You can contact James and find out more about the Carlton Manor Team by clicking here
Meet the Wedding Team:The Mansion
Liam Warburton - Cheeseman, Sales & Events Manager - The Mansion, Leeds
Liam Warburton-Cheeseman (Sales & Events Manager)
The Mansion, Roundhay Park, Leeds LS8 2HH
Get to know the teams behind the dream weddings and find out all of their best wedding secrets!
Photo Credit: Barnaby Aldrick
Capacities & Spaces
Q What are your maximum guest numbers for the ceremony and the wedding breakfast?
A For ceremonies we can host up to 220; for a wedding breakfast up to 134.
Q Do you offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces?
A We have some wonderful indoor ceremony spaces- our Colonnades room has a spectacular view out over Roundhay Park. We're not able to host outdoor weddings unfortunately as we are in a public park.
Q Do you have on-site accommodation?
A No, despite being surrounded by 700 acres of parkland we are just 15 minutes from central Leeds - so there a selection of hotels just a short journey away.
Q Dog friendly?
A We allow dogs for Wedding Ceremonies and drinks receptions. However dogs and loud music are not a good mix, so we ask that dogs are taken home (or to their accommodation) before the wedding meal.
Venue Highlights
Q What is the one feature of your venue that couples always fall in love with?
A The Grand Staircase and Chandelier. The Staircase provides elegance for photos, bridal entrance, first look photos and the Chandelier, especially in Winter when the nights are darker and is illuminated in the couple colour scheme, offers a stunning contrast in colour and brings modern chic to a classic Georgian property.
The Pro Tips
Q What is your top piece of advice for couples planning their wedding?
A Prioritise what you want, not what will please the most people. This applies to food, drinks, décor, music. Your wedding is a reflection of who you are as a couple, a hybrid mix of what you both like, and not an exercise in satisfying the whims of all who are in attendance. Don't settle for chicken if you'd rather have lamb; don't opt for Abba if you're more of an AC/DC
Q What is the most 'genius' wedding planning move or cost-saver you’ve seen a couple pull off?
A I don't think it is genius but just couples providing things they can make themselves. Wedding cakes for example, can be super expensive, but a lot of cake at night does not get eaten and people only do a cake because it is "traditional" and expected. Family members providing centre pieces like flowers they've grown at home. We recently had a wedding that put pictures of the couple around the venue and next to them paintings of those pictures that the couple had done. My advice to all couples, is just make it personal to you. Traditions and expectations can get very expensive, very quickly.
Q If a couple has an entertainment budget, where in your opinion is it best spent for maximum impact?
A Live music will always be the winner for me, and garden games. Things that will keep people entertained and engaged during some of the long moments that don't involve everybody. For example, during the drinks reception and photos, people want something to keep them active. I also like entertainment for the night time, not so much saxophonists as these can be hit and miss but bands, big or small. Live music brings a different level of atmosphere for me. Live drawing/painters are fantastic too as you get something that you can keep forever!
“Prioritise what you want, not what will please the most people. This applies to food, drinks, décor, music. Your wedding is a reflection of who you are as a couple, a hybrid mix of what you both like, and not an exercise in satisfying the whims of all who are in attendance. Don’t settle for chicken if you’d rather have lamb; don’t opt for Abba if you’re more of an AC/DC ”
Style & Trends
Q Best aisle entrance song?
A Song Bird - this was the music my wife walked into the room to and she went to a recording studio and sang her own entrance music. I also love "I Get to Love You" by Ruelle, our first dance music
Q Best aisle exit song?
A Signed, Sealed, Delivered is a timeless classic, but I love something more like "Come and Get Your Love"
Q Favourite colour scheme?
A I know it is traditional nowadays and done a lot but I love sage green. The tables, the dresses. I also love bolder colours for Winter weddings, like Reds and Purples.
Q Favourite wedding cake flavour?
A Salted Caramel
Q What favours do guests actually keep?
A None! Edible ones are always well received. Scratch cards confuse me, what would you do if they won a lot of money?
Traditions
Q One 'Old' tradition you still love.
A The Cake cutting- a great tradition and a fabulous photo. I love it when the couple cut and eat a piece straight away.
Q One 'New' tradition you’re currently obsessed with?
A The mid aisle drop kiss shot. I love the photo it provides, with everybody around you and not just you standing at the front. All eyes are on you, including the person who is looking at the photo.
The Ceremony
Q Everyone working on the wedding floor loves a Celebrant Led wedding, why do you love them?
A The flexibility and bespoke nature of a celebrant wedding makes it so much more personal. Sometimes a registrar led wedding feels too much like a tick box exercise and doesn't have the couple at the heart of the ceremony, whereas a celebrant led wedding does. They take the time to get to know the couple and deliver something so much more magical and memorable.
Arrange your viewing contact Liam at The Mansion, Leeds
Editors note: These are not paid adverts or sponsored posts.
We choose to spotlight these brilliant businesses to champion the wonderful, hardworking wedding teams who embrace the freedom of celebrant-led ceremonies, ensuring every couple's day is completely flawless.
Katie x
Supplier Spotlight: DJ Mark Green
Time to grab a cuppa, get comfy, and settle in for our latest Supplier Spotlight. This is our go-to space where we interview the nation's favourite wedding suppliers to get you all the best styling tips, hacks, and insider advice for your big day.
In the hot seat today is DJ Mark Green
Katie, Editor
Meet
Q: Katie: To kick things off, give us the quick headlines so our readers know exactly who you are and the magic you create!
A: I’m DJ Mark Green. Professional events DJ catering for prestigious weddings, corporate and sporting event.
DJ Mark Green in action!
Q: Katie: Where are you based, how far do you love to travel, and what are your favourite kinds of spaces to work with?
A: I’m based in Harrogate but I perform all over the UK. It’s hard to put a finger on my favourite spot for a wedding… far too many beautiful places to choose from. I do spend a lot of time travelling between Middleton Lodge, Tithe Barn - Bolton Abbey & Riverlands in East Yorkshire. Lots of love for all 3 of these!
I’ve been DJing for the best part of 30 years. In the early days I spent quite a few years performing overseas in multiple places across the Mediterranean. That was definitely my training ground.
Behind the Designs
Q: Katie: Let’s start right at the beginning! How did you find your way into the wedding world, and what was that exact moment you realised this was your calling?
A: There wasn’t really a life plan back then and weddings weren’t a thing I’d ever considered. My first taste of a came to me nearly 20yrs ago via a friend. He was getting married near Newcastle and asked if I could take care of his evening music. I jumped at the opportunity and haven’t looked back since… it was loads of fun.
I then spent a few years in bars and clubs, dabbling in the odd wedding, part and corporate event.
Around 2014, the workload between my day job and DJing was too much… something had to give. I handed in my notice at work and took the plunge and became a full time DJ. I haven’t looked back since.
Q: Katie: Every business has its own distinct personality. What is the core philosophy, style, and value system that defines your work today?
A: My couples and clients are at the core of everything I do. Pulling on my skill set, experience and expertise, I work closely with clients to deliver the exact vibe they desire form their special event. Once the planning and prep is nailed… it’s time to party and I love it. I don’t ever see myself as a supplier, more an extended guest. I love bouncing around to good vibes and I always bring the energy.
“Think carefully if your wedding venue has a 1am music cut off licence… you don’t need to go all the way. I see lots of parties fizzle out after midnight because the guest are absolutely shattered and physically can’t carry on. Plan your evening timings carefully and finish on a big high with all of your friends and family present.”
Q: Katie: Let’s talk about your ‘dream couple’. Describe the people that make you instantly say, "Yes, I absolutely need to work with them!"
A: I love the variety of events I do and the different people I work with. That keeps things fresh, challenging and exciting for me.
Trends & Expert Secrets
Q: Katie: What is the most unique, unconventional, or wonderfully memorable wedding setup you’ve ever been a part of?
A: Obviously not mentioning names or location. I once did a large garden wedding that was more like an illegal rave. It was complete carnage and I spent the whole day on edge looking out for police cars coming down the driveway. I remember laughing to myself all the way home. I didn’t think I was going to get away with all my equipment in one piece - it was mental.
Q: Katie: The wedding world is always evolving. What exciting new patterns, directions, or details are you noticing right now in your brilliant corner of the industry?
A: No surprise here, but TikTok trends are certainly driving couples decisions.
Q: Katie: If you could predict the 'next big thing' or share one thing you’d love to see more UK couples embrace, what would it be?
A: People are regularly looking to recreate moments in videos they’ve seen. Aisle walk tracks, first dances, mixing styles etc…
Q: Katie: For couples currently planning their wedding, what insider secret or piece of advice would you give them from your area of expertise?
A: Think carefully if your wedding venue has a 1am music cut off licence… you don’t need to go all the way. I see lots of parties fizzle out after midnight because the guest are absolutely shattered and physically can’t carry on. Plan your evening timings carefully and finish on a big high with all of your friends and family present.
The Wedding Journey & Meaning
Q: Katie: When a couple books you, what does that journey look like from start to finish? How do you make sure they feel completely looked after?
A: My booking process is all automated and completely stress free. From first enquiry to delivery, I love to be responsive. Holding couples hands and guiding them through the whole journey. I’m contactable every day of the week. I love offering my advice and answering questions to ensure we get the desired outcome on the day.
Q: Katie: We are seeing a gorgeous shift away from 'perfect-for-Instagram' weddings toward deeply meaningful days. What is one old-school wedding tradition or rule you are secretly glad modern couples are ditching?
A: I’ve noticed a few couples recently ditching speeches and their first dance. It totally cool with me if that’s what they want, however it’s always nice to keep some traditions as the flow is tried and tested and works really well.
Q: Katie: When the wedding magic is done and you’re finally off-the-clock, where can we usually find you and how do you like to unwind?
A: I’m normally sleeping or running around after my 3 kids… lol
Stalk Their Work
Where can couples find you?
Definitely check out my Instagram. I try and use it as a story of my work, and post from nearly all the events I do (unless there’s an NDA involved lol).
Instagram DJ Mark Green
“Wedding businesses, get in touch to feature here!”
Supplier Spotlight: Oscar Flanagan Music
Time to grab a cuppa, get comfy, and settle in for our latest Supplier Spotlight. This is our go-to space where we interview the nation's favourite wedding suppliers to get you all the best styling tips, hacks, and insider advice for your big day.
In the hot seat today is the very talented Oscar Flanagan, we work together frequently as Wedding Musician and Celebrant, the eagled eyed may have noticed we share the same last name… Yes, I’m his Mum (and his unofficial roadie)!
Oscar is a singer, guitarist, pianist, songwriter, producer and a BBC Introducing Artist.
Katie, Editor
Oscar Flanagan tuning up at Eaves Hall, Clitheroe
Meet Oscar Flanagan
Q: Katie: To kick things off, give us the quick headlines so our readers know exactly who you are and the magic you create!
A: I’m Oscar Flanagan, Weddings & Events Singer and Acoustic Guitarist
Q: Katie: Where are you based, how far do you love to travel, and what are your favourite kinds of spaces to work with?
A: I’m based in Skipton, North Yorkshire and also very close to the border of East Lancashire. 50 miles of travel is included within each booking, but I'm happy to travel wherever you need me. My favourite venues are: The Tipis At Riley Green, Holmes Mill - the Cotton Room acoustics are incredible, Falcon Manor, Wennington Hall and Eaves Hall.
Photography by: Matt Hetherinton
Behind the Designs
Q: Katie: Let’s start right at the beginning! How did you find your way into the wedding world, and what was that exact moment you realised this was your calling?
A: I got into the wedding industry through my mum, Katie Flanagan, editor at Celebrant Led, who used to work as a the wedding manager at a busy venue. When I was 16, she invited me along to play at a wedding fair and encouraged me to get involved in the industry. I started performing at weddings shortly after that and instantly loved the atmosphere, the people, and being part of such an important day in someone’s life. Four years on, I’ve been performing at weddings consistently and have built up experience creating live music moments that feel personal, relaxed and memorable for every couple.
Q: Katie: Every business has its own distinct personality. What is the core philosophy, style, and value system that defines your work today?
A: I’m all about creating a wedding atmosphere that feels relaxed, personal and genuinely fun. Live music has such a huge impact on the energy of a day, and my goal is always to make moments feel natural rather than staged. Whether it’s an emotional aisle song, laid-back drinks music or a packed dancefloor singalong, I want guests to feel completely present in the moment.
My style is modern, acoustic-led pop, mixing timeless classics with current songs people actually love singing along to. Couples often describe me as easy-going, professional and adaptable, and I think that comes from understanding that every wedding is different. No copy-and-paste playlists, no awkward wedding singer clichés, just great live music tailored to the people in front of me. Above everything, I value reliability, good communication and making the whole experience stress-free for couples from the first enquiry to the first dance.
“I’ve played at registrar led and celebrant led ceremonies and the rigid, registrar-led ceremony that can feel more like a pressured exam than a celebration. More and more couples are moving toward celebrant-led weddings, and it makes such a difference. Suddenly the whole ceremony is built around them, their story, their personalities. The room relaxes, the emotion is real, and honestly the music hits completely differently when everyone in the room feels like they’re part of something personal rather than just watching a formal procedure.”
Q: Katie: Let’s talk about your ‘dream couple’. Describe the people that make you instantly say, "Yes, I absolutely need to work with them!"
A: My dream couples are the ones who want both sides of live wedding music, the intimate moments and the big atmosphere. I love working with couples who want that emotional, personal feeling of walking down the aisle to their song performed live and acoustically, creating a moment that feels completely unique to them.
But I also love couples who want the energy to lift straight after the ceremony, turning the drinks reception into a fun, upbeat atmosphere where guests are singing along, dancing, and properly enjoying themselves from the very start of the day. For me, the best weddings balance emotion and energy perfectly, and I love being part of both.
Trends & Expert Secrets
Q: Katie: What is the most unique, unconventional, or wonderfully memorable wedding setup you’ve ever been a part of?
A: One moment that really stands out happened at the Coniston Hotel. I was playing Hallelujah as the bride walked down the aisle, and the emotion in the room was something else, the whole room was in tears before she’d even made it in. She actually had to wait outside for a moment to compose herself, so I did something you simply can’t do with a playlist: I extended the song, looping back through the verse and chorus to give her the time she needed. When she finally walked in it was perfect timing. That’s the thing about live music, it breathes and responds to the moment in a way nothing pre-recorded ever could.
Q: Katie: The wedding world is always evolving. What exciting new patterns, directions, or details are you noticing right now in your brilliant corner of the industry?
A: Couples are increasingly asking for really personal, specific song choices rather than the classic wedding staples, tracks that mean something to them as a couple, sometimes quite unexpected genres, and they want them stripped back and done in a way that feels intimate rather than performative.
Q: Katie: If you could predict the 'next big thing' or share one thing you’d love to see more UK couples embrace, what would it be?
A: Longer acoustic sets during the cocktail hour, that window between the wedding breakfast and the evening do. It’s such an underused part of the day and a live acoustic guitarist filling that space creates something really special, relaxed, warm, and memorable in a way a playlist simply can’t replicate.
Q: Katie: For couples currently planning their wedding, what insider secret or piece of advice would you give them from your area of expertise?
A: Don’t underestimate the power of the music during your ceremony. Most couples spend months deciding on flowers and table settings, but leave the music as an afterthought. Those few songs: your aisle entrance, the signing, your aisle exit, are the moments everyone will remember feeling something. Talk to your musician early, be specific about what those songs mean to you, and don’t just default to the obvious choices if they’re not really you.
The Wedding Journey & Meaning
Q: Katie: When a couple books you, what does that journey look like from start to finish? How do you make sure they feel completely looked after?
A: Once a couple enquires I like to keep things really simple and personal. We have a conversation, whether that’s over email or a call, where I get to understand what their day looks and feels like and what music matters to them. From there I send across all the details they need clearly, with no stress. As the wedding gets closer we check back in, confirm the setlist for the ceremony, and I make sure every song they want is ready exactly as they’d hope. On the day, I arrive early, set up quietly, and handle everything myself so they don’t have to think about it at all.
Q: Katie: We are seeing a gorgeous shift away from 'perfect-for-Instagram' weddings toward deeply meaningful days. What is one old-school wedding tradition or rule you are secretly glad modern couples are ditching?
A: I’ve played at registrar led and celebrant led ceremonies and the rigid, registrar-led ceremony that can feel more like a pressured exam than a celebration. More and more couples are moving toward celebrant-led weddings, and it makes such a difference. Suddenly the whole ceremony is built around them, their story, their personalities. The room relaxes, the emotion is real, and honestly the music hits completely differently when everyone in the room feels like they’re part of something personal rather than just watching a formal procedure.
Q: Katie: When the wedding magic is done and you’re finally off-the-clock, where can we usually find you and how do you like to unwind?
A: Honestly, you’ll probably find me at another gig. When I’m not playing weddings, I’m out doing live performances across Yorkshire, Lancashire, Manchester and the North West, it’s just what I love doing. Music is never really work to me, so unwinding and doing what I enjoy is a dream.
Stalk Their Work
Where to find
Oscar has some brilliant blog posts on his website including his guide to the best aisle entrance and aisle exit songs.
Pricing is transparent and you can get in touch to check date availability. https://www.oscarflanagan.com
See Oscar in action on Instagram, TikTok:@oscartflanagan
Editor's Note: This is a naturally curated editorial feature showcasing our favourite independent wedding suppliers. This is not a sponsored or paid post.
“Wedding businesses, get in touch to feature here!”
Meet the Wedding Team: Elsworth at the Mill
Rebecca & Bruce Elsworth - Co Owners
Hollie Igoe - Wedding Coordinator
High Corn Mill, Chapel Hill, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 1NL
Get to know the teams behind the dream weddings and find out all of their best wedding secrets!
The Team: Hollie Igoe (Wedding Coordinator) Bruce & Rebecca Elsworth (Co owners)
Capacities & Spaces
Q What are your maximum guest numbers for the ceremony and the wedding breakfast?
A Ceremony up to 70, Wedding breakfast A la Carte 64, Street Food Buffet up to 80, Evening up to 80.
Q Do you offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces?
A Indoor only
Q Do you have on-site accommodation?
A The venue is surrounded by local accommodation from Hotels, Guest Houses and Holiday lets the closest one being Eller Beck directly below the venue.
Q Dog friendly?
A Small well behaved dogs are allowed.
Photo credits: Georgie Beck, Jacqueline Louise Photography
Venue Highlights
Q What is the vibe of your venue?
A Relaxed, historic, bespoke - Simple, characterful and thoughtfully put together.
Q What is the one feature of your venue that couples always fall in love with?
A The high beamed ceiling, the exposed Yorkshire stone walls and the fact the venue doesn't need much dressing, a few simple runners on the table along with bud vases and candles and the space is wedding ready.
The Pro Tips
Q What is your top piece of advice for couples planning their wedding?
A Make your day feel like yours, don't follow a trend if it's not a reflection of you. Concentrate on bringing your nearest & dearest together to celebrate your special day. No one will remember if the timings run exact or if you had the latest trend but they will remember how it felt.
Q What is the most 'genius' wedding planning move or cost-saver you’ve seen a couple pull off?
A The best cost saver is keeping it smaller, some of the best days here have been planned at the last minute and are beautiful, simple, intimate gatherings where everything happens in one place: ceremony, food, drinks, dancing. No transport, no long gaps, no extras for the sake of it. Just good food, the right people and the best atmosphere.
Q If a couple has an entertainment budget, where in your opinion is it best spent for maximum impact?
A I would say a DJ/ live music we love DJ Wiggy or Sarah Widdup, they can really set the tone, especially if you love a bit of a dance or if you would like more on the entertaining side we would highly recommend a magician, We love Magic by Mark Waddington, this really does bring people together and gets them talking.
“Make your day feel like yours, don’t follow a trend if it’s not a reflection of you. Concentrate on bringing your nearest & dearest together to celebrate your special day. No one will remember if the timings run exact or if you had the latest trend but they will remember how it felt.”
Style & Trends
Q Best aisle entrance song?
A An acoustic version of Simply The Best.
Q Best aisle exit song?
A Everywhere, Fleetwood Mac
Q Favourite colour scheme?
A A gorgeous mix of bright colours
Q Favourite wedding cake flavour?
A It has to be a vanilla sponge with berry jam and meringue buttercream, classic & delicious especially from our trusted supplier baked by Emma Lawson.
Q What favours do guests actually keep?
A We recently held a Japanese themed wedding and all the guests had traditional fans as favours, these are the types of things people will keep and cherish.
Traditions
Q One 'Old' tradition you still love.
A Speeches that actually mean something, not over rehearsed, not too many, just a few people standing up and saying something with meaning.
Q One 'New' tradition you’re currently obsessed with?
A Dropping the wedding rule book, Late ceremonies, shared aisles, no formal sides and couples arriving together. Keeping your day personal to you.
The Ceremony
Q Everyone working on the wedding floor loves a Celebrant Led wedding, why do you love them?
A We absolutely love a celebrant led wedding, its personal, its tells a story, its moving, its everything!
You can find out more about the Elsworth at the Mill Team by clicking here
“Editors note: These aren’t paid-for features or affiliate links. I choose to spotlight these brilliant businesses to champion the wonderful, hardworking wedding teams who embrace the freedom of celebrant-led ceremonies, ensuring every couple’s day is completely flawless.”
Supplier Spotlight: With Hayley from Ink & Barn
Hey lovely! Grab a cuppa, get comfy, and settle in for our latest Supplier Spotlight. This is our go-to space where we interview the nation's favourite wedding suppliers to get you all the best styling tips, hacks, and insider advice for your big day.
In the hot seat today is the wonderful Hayley Mason from Ink & Barn. I’ve actually seen Hayley's beautiful work first-hand and immediately knew I wanted to get her in for a Q&A to talk all about her bespoke wedding stationery studio
Katie, Editor
Meet Ink & Barn
Q: Katie: To kick things off, give us the quick headlines so our readers know exactly who you are and the magic you create!
A: Hayley: I’m Hayley Mason, the face behind Ink & Barn. I create bespoke wedding stationery that brings your unique wedding vision to life!
Hayley Mason the gorgeous lady behind Ink & Barn wedding stationery
Q: Katie: Where are you based, how far do you love to travel, and what are your favourite kinds of spaces to work with?
A: Hayley: I’m based in West Yorkshire, where I run my wedding stationery studio from my home. From here, I work with couples all across the UK, from local celebrations right through to destination weddings!
My approach is very relaxed and down-to-earth, I like things to feel easy, personal, and enjoyable from start to finish. I’ve always believed that wedding stationery should feel exciting, not overwhelming, so I aim to make the whole process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
I’ve been lucky enough to work with a wide variety of beautiful venues, and I honestly find it hard to pick favourites. I love how each space has its own personality — whether that’s a laid-back countryside setting, a modern industrial space, or something completely unique — they all bring something different to the design process, which I really enjoy.
Behind the Designs
Q: Katie: Let’s start right at the beginning! How did you find your way into the wedding world, and what was that exact moment you realised this was your calling?
A: Hayley: I started my business in 2023 after designing and styling all of my own wedding stationery for my big day. What began as a personal project quickly turned into something much bigger — I completely fell in love with the process and realised I’d found something I genuinely wanted to do long-term.
After receiving such positive feedback from friends, family, and others who saw my work, I decided to take the leap and turn it into a business. It felt like a natural next step, and I’ve never looked back.
Since then, I’ve been building Ink & Barn alongside my love for creating thoughtful, beautifully designed stationery. I truly enjoy every part of it — from those first rough ideas through to the finished pieces couples receive for their wedding day.
Q: Katie: Every business has its own distinct personality. What is the core philosophy, style, and value system that defines your work today?
A: Hayley: The core philosophy behind my work is to make the entire process feel calm, easy, and completely stress-free for my couples. I know how overwhelming wedding planning can be, so my aim is always to keep things simple, supportive, and enjoyable from start to finish.
I really focus on listening — understanding exactly what each couple wants and bringing that vision to life in a way that feels true to them. I’m always happy to offer guidance and suggestions where needed, but I never take over the creative direction. It’s important to me that every design feels personal and reflective of each couple’s style.
Good communication, a relaxed approach, and a high standard of customer service are at the heart of what I do. I also place a strong emphasis on quality, using carefully selected materials to ensure every piece feels as special as the occasion itself. Above all, I want my couples to feel looked after, understood, and confident that their stationery is in safe hands.
“If I could predict the next big thing, I’d say it’s weddings that fully embrace personality over perfection.”
Q: Katie: Let’s talk about your ‘dream couple’. Describe the people that make you instantly say, "Yes, I absolutely need to work with them!"
A: Hayley: My dream couples are those who really want their personality to shine through in their stationery and overall wedding styling. I absolutely love working with couples who aren’t afraid to make things personal — whether that’s including their pets in their signage, building a strong and intentional colour palette, or weaving in unique interests and details that make their day feel completely their own. I’ve even worked on more creative, themed ideas too, like a gaming-inspired wedding, which was such a fun project to bring to life!
That said, I genuinely love working with all kinds of couples. I’m very versatile in my approach and enjoy adapting my style to suit each individual brief. Whether someone comes to me with a very clear vision or needs a bit more guidance, I’m always happy to help bring their ideas together in a way that feels cohesive, personal, and true to them.
Trends & Expert Secrets
Q: Katie: What is the most unique, unconventional, or wonderfully memorable wedding setup you’ve ever been a part of?
A: Hayley: One of the most memorable weddings I’ve worked on was a beautifully bold, festival-style celebration that was completely centred around bright colours and personality. It was such a fun brief — there wasn’t a colour I couldn’t use, and the whole day was a real celebration of creativity and individuality.
The couple wanted something vibrant, relaxed, and full of life, and that energy ran through everything. It was packed with their friends, their dogs, and just a really laid-back, joyful atmosphere that was very much “run on vibes” in the best possible way. It’s weddings like that which I absolutely love being part of — where there are no strict rules, just personality, colour, and fun woven into every detail.
Q: Katie: The wedding world is always evolving. What exciting new patterns, directions, or details are you noticing right now in your brilliant corner of the industry?
A: Hayley: The wedding world is definitely leaning much more into personality-led, highly customised celebrations, which I absolutely love seeing. Couples are moving away from overly traditional or “one style fits all” designs and instead really focusing on making their day feel completely reflective of them.
I’m seeing a big rise in bold, intentional colour palettes, along with couples wanting to incorporate really personal details into their stationery — whether that’s pets, shared interests, or meaningful references that tell their story.
There’s also much more emphasis on the full guest experience now. Stationery is no longer just about invitations; it’s becoming part of the overall atmosphere of the day, from welcome signs and on-the-day details through to cohesive design elements that carry through the entire wedding. Overall, couples want weddings that feel fun, relaxed, and full of personality.
Q: Katie: If you could predict the 'next big thing' or share one thing you’d love to see more UK couples embrace, what would it be?
A: Hayley: I’d love to see more couples ditching the pressure of “what a wedding should look like” and instead going all-in on colour, creativity, and personal storytelling. The weddings that stand out most are always the ones that feel fun, relaxed, and completely individual — and I think that’s exactly where things are heading.
Q: Katie: For couples currently planning their wedding, what insider secret or piece of advice would you give them from your area of expertise?
A: Hayley: An insider tip I always share is to think of your stationery as part of the full guest experience, not just an information tool. It’s often the first glimpse guests get of your wedding, so it sets the tone for everything that follows. When you treat it as part of your overall styling rather than an afterthought, it completely elevates the feel of the day.
The Wedding Journey & Meaning
Q: Katie: When a couple books you, what does that journey look like from start to finish? How do you make sure they feel completely looked after?
A: Hayley: When a couple gets in touch, it usually starts with an enquiry form, message, or email where they share a little about their wedding day. From there, we’ll have a relaxed chat about their ideas, style, and overall vision — including colour palettes, design direction, cardstock options, and any materials or finishes they’re drawn to. This is really the stage where I get to understand their personality as a couple and how we can bring that into their stationery.
Once we’ve agreed on the direction, they can hand over the creative side to me. I take care of the design process and create proofs for them to review, making sure everything feels exactly right before anything goes to print. Any feedback or adjustments are always welcome at this stage, and I work closely with them to refine everything until they’re completely happy.
Once approved, I move everything into production and print their stationery with care and attention to detail. For local couples, I also offer a hand delivery service, which adds a lovely personal finishing touch! Throughout the whole process, my focus is on keeping things easy, clear, and stress-free, so couples feel fully supported and confident from start to finish.
Q: Katie: We are seeing a gorgeous shift away from 'perfect-for-Instagram' weddings toward deeply meaningful days. What is one old-school wedding tradition or rule you are secretly glad modern couples are ditching?
A: Hayley: One tradition I really love seeing more couples embrace is opening up the speeches beyond the traditional format. I’m a big fan of hearing from the bride, and I also love when the mother of the bride or groom gets the chance to speak, as well as bridesmaids or maids of honour.
It brings such a personal, emotional, and often really fun energy to the day. These moments tend to feel more relaxed and genuine, and they give space for different voices and relationships to be celebrated — not just the traditional lineup. It’s a lovely shift towards making the day feel more inclusive and reflective of the people who matter most.
Q: Katie: When the wedding magic is done and you’re finally off-the-clock, where can we usually find you and how do you like to unwind?
A: Hayley: When I’m not working on weddings, you’ll usually find me spending time with my daughter and my dog — they definitely keep life busy in the best way!
I love simple, everyday moments like finding a good coffee spot, getting outside for walks, or fitting in some exercise. I also really value time with family and friends, whether that’s exploring somewhere new, having a relaxed day out, or just enjoying a bit of downtime together. For me, it’s all about balance — enjoying the little things and making time for fun in between the busy parts of life.
Stalk Their Work
Where to find Ink & Barn:
Ready to design stationery that tells your story? Go follow Hayley’s gorgeous work and get in touch:
Instagram, Facebook & TikTok: @inkandbarn
Editor's Note: This is a naturally curated editorial feature showcasing our favourite independent wedding suppliers. This is not a sponsored or paid post.
“Wedding businesses, If you’d like to take part in a Supplier Spotlight Q&A - get in touch!”