What the wedding planner wishes you knew

Unflappable and a whizz at troubleshooting, Clare Buckler of The Alverton knows how to run a wedding seamlessly. The wedding planner at the Truro hotel reveals what she wishes every couple knew about getting hitched

What do brides need to know?

To take some moments out with their partner on the wedding day. It goes so quickly, and the bride and groom can be so busy chatting to guests they hardly see each other. It’s important to sneak off for a precious moment together.

What do you wish grooms knew?

Not to hold back the tears when they see their partner coming down the aisle. It’s completely normal to feel a little overwhelmed when you see the love of your life walking towards you on your wedding day. Make sure you tell them how wonderful they look!

What do you need to be a good wedding planner?

To be calm and kind, and to keep a level head while being able to have a laugh with guests to ease pre‑ceremony nerves. We recently had a bride who didn’t have any wedding day flowers as the florist had booked her for 2025 instead of 2024. I popped to Waitrose to pick up some flowers and we made the bride and bridesmaids’ bouquets and the groom and groomsmen’s buttonholes.

What do you wish couples knew about choosing their menu?

It’s their special day, so to choose their favourite foods. If guests aren’t that keen, well, it’s just one meal for them – but for the couple it’s their wedding meal.

Image: Olivia Rossi

Can you share a memorable moment?

One couple’s dog, dressed in an adorable little bow tie, was the designated ring bearer. The excitable pup was supposed to trot gracefully down the aisle, carrying the rings in a tiny pouch. Instead, he decided it was the perfect time to show off his personality and say hello to all the guests. Once done, he grabbed the pouch and ran straight to the bride. The dog was the star of the day, stealing hearts and the spotlight in equal measure. It was such a lighthearted, joyful moment that perfectly matched the couple’s fun‑loving spirit.

Tips for camera‑shy couples?

Always book a good photographer; it’s one thing I wouldn’t scrimp on. These are moments that will be looked back on for the rest of your lives. Also, trust the photographer – they know how to get the best shots.

What are the advantages of a hotel wedding?

Having everything in one place eliminates the stress of organising transport. And staying over the night before means avoiding worries about braving the wind or rain. At The Alverton, we deliver a delicious room‑service breakfast so the couple can enjoy a relaxing morning while being pampered and getting ready. And our Great Hall is such a unique venue; it’s the closest you’ll get to a church without being in a church. The best part, though, is that the couple can revisit their wedding venue whenever they like – whether it’s for a drink on a sunny afternoon or an overnight stay to celebrate their anniversary. We love welcoming our couples back and being part of their cherished memories.

The most rewarding part of your job?

There are so many! Weddings are one of the most significant events in people’s lives and it’s a unique privilege to turn a couple’s dream into reality. Seeing their joy on the day is very gratifying.