Wedding Coordinator At Sunshine Weddings Spain
Wedding Coordinator At Sunshine Weddings Spain: Raquel Bonnici Details A Successful Season…
Raquel Bonnici is the lead wedding coordinator at Sunshine Weddings Spain. In today’s interview with Raquel we find out what she loves about her job, how she became such an important member of team Sunshine Weddings and what she is going to do in her spare time once the wedding season of 2019 comes to a close.
Why did you move to Marbella?
I have lived in Marbella for 26 years, thanks to my parents who retired here when I was just 14.
How did you get involved in events planning?
After working for many years in real estate, I discovered I was much more productive and happier away from a computer and out among people. I then fell in love with a sport which became much more to me than just a hobby and I ended up organizing a few competitions and events, which lead to me being introduced to Sunshine Weddings.
Why did you decide to specialize in weddings?
I’m a Taurus and Taureans love to organize and be organized. They’re also pretty good at getting jobs done efficiently! What better way to put that all into practice and be a part of such a joyful day.
How did you become part of team Sunshine Weddings?
A photographer friend of mine casually introduced me to Scott after enquiring whether or not I would be interested in about 30 days of work in the year. Needless to say, those 30 days soon took over my life – very quickly!
How would you describe your job, your role?
As a coordinator, my role is to ensure a smooth and seamless flow to a wedding day. It’s fun, emotional and stressful at times, but all the hard work and effort that goes into the planning certainly pays off and it’s a very fulfilling achievement at the end of a very long day.
Describe a typical day…
I am normally talking to all the providers from about 8am, re-confirming details before heading over to the venue for preparation and setup a few hours before the guests. I see the schedule through from start to finish, always working a few steps ahead to ensure a smooth-running order.
Which are your favourite venues in Marbella?
All of the venues have something unique which makes them special in their different ways. I am most enamored of our selection of traditional and rustic style venues. They boast so much charm and character and are surrounded by unspoiled nature.
Have you noticed any shifts in trends this year?
There has been an increase in bohemian style weddings. Flowers in the hair, fairy lights, soft and delicate colours and unstructured bouquets.
What types of couples tend to choose Marbella to get married?
It’s a big mixture really, a few who have had a connection with the area, some who have never been before, adventurous types who want a truly memorable experience for themselves and their guests.
Can you share some highlights from 2019 weddings?
A six-tier wedding cake
An 11-year-old giving his mum away
A chicken- and farm-themed wedding
Have any obstacles come up, and how did you overcome them?
Fortunately, nothing serious! The heat can sometimes be a challenge, keeping wine crisp and cool, buttercream cakes that can’t be outside for too long and guests who don’t handle well the combination of a few too many glasses of cava and the Spanish sun.
Has the popularity of any venue in Marbella surprised you?
Villa weddings. Many people are now choosing to combine their big day with a luxurious holiday that includes all their friends and family.
What advice would you give couples planning their 2020 wedding in Marbella?
Don’t be afraid of the unknown, that’s what we are here for. It’s just as easy as doing it at home with all the personal touches you dream of.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Catch up with my 13-year-old son who misses me when I spend so much time away working. I am also a passionate Crossfitter so I spend a lot of time in the gym, training, too.
Which part of the day do you find most emotional?
It’s the final few seconds once the procession has started, and daughter and dad take that big deep breath together, right before they walk down the aisle.
What’s the hardest thing about working in wedding event coordination?
The hardest thing in our wedding season has got to be handling the heat!
Did anything happen at a wedding this year that made you laugh?
I had a really chilled bride who snapped the heel of her shoe on a rock about 20 seconds before walking down the aisle. She ended up taking both shoes off and chucking them behind her, chuckling to herself all the way down the aisle.
Are there any trends you would like to see disappear?
Each wedding is always unique to the couple and so there isn’t any particular style that I don’t like, and I’ll always embrace new and quirky themes.
Describe yourself in 5 words
Organized, attentive, personable, energetic, comforting
What are you plans when you finish your last wedding of 2019?
Travel far, switch off my mobile, drink a few mojitos and enjoy time with my family.