Tara Fay, wedding planner.
HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU SPEND ONLINE?
I spend at least three or four hours online every day, doing business, writing and reading e-mails and, of course, researching everything from travel bookings to new products, venues and suppliers. We keep an eye on wedding websites in Europe and the States to see what concerns people have and to look for feedback.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE NEWS-RELATED WEBSITES?
I check in regularly with http://news.sky.com, CNN.com and .
WHAT OTHER SITES DO YOU VISIT REGULARLY?
Internet banking has to be one of the great time-savers of all time. I now spend large chunks on . We get a lot of up-to-the-minute news from www.weddingsonline.com and ideas and product information from . We've got used to ordering practically everything you could possibly imagine online . . . linens, props, giveaways for the table.
HAS THE INTERNET IMPROVED YOUR LIFE?
It has definitely made sourcing products more accessible. And because weddings abroad are increasingly popular - we managed events in Barbados, the south of France and the Amalfi coast last year - we sourced everything from travel and accommodation bookings to local suppliers online.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE NOTABLE TRENDS OF THIS SEASON?
There is a a growing awareness about well-sourced food and catering to the requirements of individual guests. Clients don't want to choose from a menu alone; they want to see what each dish will look like. Hoteliers have cottoned on to this - they've had to. The look of the venue continues to matter more and more. Crystals and lots of bling are still in vogue. And of course there is an undying interest in shabby chic.
Tara Fay is a wedding planner and events and parties organiser. See www.xena-productions.com (01-2698405)