What: Planning Redefined workshop | When: November 2018 | Where: Millbridge Court

There’s more than meets the eye to planning the perfect wedding. So where do wedding planners go to get their ideas? The answer is, Planning Redefined. Run by Katrina Otter and Louise, of Louise Perry Weddings, this three-day workshop is an extravaganza of training and mentoring for aspiring, new and experienced wedding planners. Jam-packed with guest speakers, hands-on demonstrations and non-stop inspiration, it’s a go-to event for wedding insiders.

Kalm Kitchen was delighted to be at Millbridge Court – the setting for this inspiration-fest – sharing our ideas for the treats and feasts that are making waves in the wedding world. Our very own Event & Styling Manager, Pete was in charge of pulling out all the stops to create a visual and taste spectacular to set the gathered audience alight.

Foodie highlights

We began proceedings by serving up Organic wild flower bark  as a sweet treat along with fresh juice shots to kick start the day. Then, as attendees got to know each other, we served a gorgeous lunch of Middle Eastern Slow braised spiced lamb shoulder paired with a fatttoush salad and Lebanese breads. An interactive edible ‘garden’ was a show stopper on day three. This was filled with delicious fresh produce, dips and crostinis which proved a wow moment for everyone gathered. Kalm Kitchen’s signature Patisserie Bar was styled with stunning clean lines in cool tones of whites and coppers, hosting gorgeous potted botanical desserts. Finally, as an extra special treat, a delectable S’mores station got everyone talking – and eating!

Pete says, ‘This was an amazing opportunity to showcase some of the more imaginative eating experiences that Kalm Kitchen is renowned for creating. We relished the chance to put together some of our signature sharing stations, and push the boundaries of people’s taste and visual expectations. We believe that when it comes to creating a memorable wedding menu, anything is possible. Why not?’

As well as a non-stop supply of food stimulation, there was a whole range of workshops too. For example, emergency Buttonholes by Liz at Blue Sky Flowers, plus a masterclass in tablescaping. And then, a chance for everyone to create their own place settings using linen, glassware and crockery from Just 4 Linen and Classic Crockery.

Inspiration all day long

Attendees made the most of the beautiful grounds of Millbridge Court by staying overnight for the full immersive experience. And we made sure inspiration lasted all day long by waking guests up to a bouji breakfast. Homemade banana bread, organic Greek yoghurt, New Zealand honey and fresh fruits was the ideal spread to set things off on the right track.

Pete says, ‘This event was such an amazing experience to be a part of. It was lovely to meet with new talent in the industry and I’m so excited to have the opportunity to work with them again in 2019.’

Feeling inspired and want to come along to the next Planning Redefined event? Find out more details on their website planningredefined.co.uk/

Credits… Hosted by: Katrina Otter {www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk} and Louise Perry {www.louiseperrywedding.com}. Photography: Hannah at Hannah Duffy {www.hannahduffy.com/}. Flowers: Liz at Blue Sky Flowers {www.blueskyflowers.co.uk/}.  Crockery: Classic Crockery {www.classiccrockery.co.uk}. Venue: Millbridge Court {www.millbridgecourt.co.uk/}. Furniture by Wedhead {www.wedhead.co.uk/}.

We’re lucky enough to work with some fabulous venues. And one we’re excited to share with you is Penton Park – a place we’ve recently forged links with. This award-winning, family-run venue located in the Test Valley offers exclusive use for all kinds of celebrations. Here’s just a little on why we love it so much (and know you will too)…

Where…

The pretty village of Penton Mewsey in Hampshire.

What…

Penton Park is a country house with real character. Not only gorgeous, with a Georgian-style elegance, it also has a wonderfully warm and welcoming feel as it’s first and foremost a family home. The three generations who live here have put their hearts and souls into restoring it and these days they have chosen to open up their doors and share it as an exclusive space for all kinds of special occasions. As well as the family, who only host a maximum of 20 events in any one year, there is a dedicated events manager, who is on hand to help from the moment you book through to the day itself.

The venue has four impressive rooms indoors and is a short walk from a pretty local country church. It’s also licensed for outdoor ceremonies, offering two beautiful spaces in the grounds to say your vows. In spring, the garden is awash with a pretty burst of colourful wild flowers. Fancy a unique treat for your guests? Penton Park brews its own ales on site in its early Georgian kitchen. From Pales to Porters, beers to IPAs, they have something to suit everyone’s taste.

We love…

As grand as Penton Park is, this is your place if you want to embrace a feeling of homely spendour. You’ll immediately notice the family feel when you arrive – from family pictures to the friendly Irish wolfhound and cats that inhabit this home. Some guests have been so enamoured with doggy Duke that he’s ended up on the dance floor! No problem if not though, he’s usually found upstairs peacefully snoozing away in his own private quarters!

For more information on Penton Park, visit their website at www.pentonpark.co.uk/

2018 was a memorable year for Kalm Kitchen. Busier than ever with weddings, celebrations and all kinds of new and exciting events to get stuck into, we caught up with some of the team to share their stand-out moments…

// Laura & Sebastian’s wedding | Lara Kellaway, Senior Event Manager

‘For me the highlight event for 2018 was Laura & Sebastian’s stunning summer wedding at Northbrook Park in August. Working with and getting to know these two beautiful people inside out was an absolute pleasure. It was clear from the start that this was going to be a truly spectacular day. Their personalised styling and vision for the day inspired many other events we have run since, and sparked a couple of new trends that we’ll no doubt see more of in 2019.’

// Gabi & Matt’s wedding | Jen Middlehurst, Kalm Kitchen Founder

‘Working with Gabi and Matt to create something really special was such a highlight of 2018. We loved developing a new starter, which is now available at the wedding venue owned by Matt. It made it particularly special being on the Isle of Wight, which is now my home.’

// Cat & Angus’s wedding | Lily Dawson, The events team

‘It was such an honour to be a guest at Kalm Kitchen’s very own Cat’s wedding, but even more so to help with all of the behind the scenes planning for her big day. The wedding itself was absolutely beautiful and it was so lovely to be a part of it with her. We went back and forth with food and styling ideas, and her patisserie bar has been greatly admired by lots of our other clients!’

// Georgia & Jamie’s wedding | Emily Houghton-Connell, Event Manager

‘My most memorable moment of 2018 was Georgia and Jamie’s Wedding at Georgia’s family home in Oxfordshire. I loved working with the couple to plan and organise their day. The wedding was for over 250 guests, which for me was a personal achievement and a proud moment! I especially loved the Ferris wheel and steel band.’

Would you like to talk to us about how we can help you create a celebration to remember in 2019, or beyond? Do get in touch at info@kalmkitchen.co.uk or call us on 01483 813360. Happy New Year!

Look out for coverage of Camilla and George Blandford’s wedding in the January issue of Tatler magazine. We were lucky enough to be a part of these stunning celebrations, which took place at Blenheim Palace last September. We loved getting to know the couple and dreaming up some of our most challenging food creations to date. For instance, a seafood stall featuring lobster rolls and its very own roaming Oyster Meister, and an edible glasshouse display of healthy and wholesome bites. We had such a wonderful time working with the couple on their amazing day. So, enjoy the full interview with this lovely couple in the January 2019 issue of Tatler magazine. Or, you can find out some of our foodie highlights here…

Being part of this special day was definitely a 2018 highlight. And to top it off, this January we were also delighted to find out that we’ve been approved as a recommended supplier at Blenheim Palace. We can’t wait to work on many more spectacular events at this historic venue.

Would you like to talk to us about planning your big day? Contact us at info@kalmkitchen.co.uk or call us on 01483 813360.

In our continuing quest to introduce you to the wonderful people behind the scenes at Kalm Kitchen, we had a catch up with Event Planner Hannah Woodley, whose recent experience of planning her own wedding has given her even more insight into what it take to plan your dream day…

Q// Hannah, when did you join Kalm Kitchen and what has been your journey since you started?

A: I joined the Kalm Kitchen team in April 2017 – it’s impressive to see that the team has more than doubled in size since then! I have taken on managing the bookings for Micklefield Hall in addition to working at other fabulous venues.

Q// Tell us a little about your role at Kalm Kitchen, and what’s a typical day for you?

A: My role as an Event Planner includes working at Kalm Kitchen HQ in Puttenham where I host initial meetings with our wonderful couples, gaining insight to their perfect day. On event days I am out at our gorgeous venues and private houses bringing all of our couples plans to life. It is fair to say that there is no ‘typical day’ in the world of events, which I think is half its charm and keeps things interesting!

Q// What are the things you most enjoy about your role?

A: The people – in and outside of Kalm Kitchen. One of my favourite things about my role at Kalm Kitchen is that every day I am privileged to work alongside some of the kindest, most inspirational people I have met, and now call family. The events industry is extremely diverse, not to mention challenging at times so you need to have a strong support network, and that is exactly what you can find at Kalm Kitchen. Working with fantastic suppliers really elevates my role too – running an event when I know I am working alongside a team of other passionate people towards the same goal is something really unique.

Q// What’s the best ever event you’ve ever had the pleasure to work on? What made it so special.

A: To be honest, there are no two events that can be compared like for like. Every single event that we cater for – whether is a dinner party for 30 people, or a lavish wedding for 300 people – is equally special.

Q// What are the particular skills you think you have that make you good at your job?

A: I am adaptable and approachable and I will happily to talk to anyone, which – especially in this industry – is beneficial!

Q// What’s the funniest thing that’s ever happened to you while planning or hosting an event?

A: Our couples are so creative and always bring a smile to my face with their ideas. It’s too hard to pick just one standout moment, but I would pin it down to working with animals – from owl ringbearers to incorporating farm animals – totally unpredictable! Let’s just say llamas bring so much joy to a party too!

Q// If you could choose a dream party to plan, what would it be?

A: I love the idea of planning a wedding for a close family member or friend to create a truly memorable day. I envisage a simple but elegant wedding on a small fort with an endless flow of prosecco and delicious Kalm Kitchen food!

Q// What are your best tips for hosting the most successful party?

A: Stick to your gut, but also be open to advice. If you are planning an event – party, dinner, wedding – whatever the event, make sure it is what you want. Create a vision and run with it. Once you are clear with your vision, fully hand over to your event manager/planner so you can relax and enjoy all the elements as they unravel on the day.

Q// We understand you got married recently. What are the things you learnt from being on ‘the other side’?

A: Enjoy the ride and stay positive. It’s such an exciting time and I would be lying if I said I hadn’t felt all emotions at times planning my own wedding, but that’s perfectly normal and now this is something I feel helps me connect better to my clients. Planning an event is only going to be as overwhelming as you make it. My advice would be to choose the suppliers you are most comfortable with and trust that they will execute all your plans.

Q// What’s your favourite food, and do you have a foodie guilty pleasure?

A: I am terrible for snacking – I would much rather eat little and often rather than sit down and eat a big meal. Put a coffee in my hand and a bag of popcorn in the other and I feel like I’m winning!

Q// What’s your signature dish – the one you’re an absolute pro at rustling up?

A: For someone who works in the catering events industry, I am terrible in that I never follow a recipe – something I have 100% inherited from my mum.

Q// What do you do in your downtime?

A: I am a country girl at heart and family is everything to me. My husband and I are lucky to live just around the corner from both of our parents and will regularly be found either with them walking the dogs or down in Brighton with my sister wandering through the Lanes and drinking cocktails.

Q// What did you want to be when you were growing up, and are there any unfulfilled ambitions?

A: I have always had a lot of love for animals and growing up I loved the idea of being a vet but, at six years old cuddling baby animals and meeting everyone’s cute pets was my concept of what a vet was!

Q// If you had to make a rule for one day and everyone had to follow it, what would it be?

A: Smile, be kind and eat guilt-free brownies all day!

Photography: Eddie Judd {eddiejuddphotography.com}