insideKENT Magazine Issue 27 - June 2014 | Page 149

BUSINESS insideKENT TALKS TO Catherine James of Catherine James Events With over 15 years' experience in the event industry, from corporate affairs and intimate private parties, to weddings, birthdays and themed extravaganzas, it seems there is very little Kent-based business, Catherine James Events, can't turn from mundane to magnificent. How did Catherine James Events come about? After years of working in the city attending numerous events, tasting the same old limp canapés, experiencing the same themes, and being served by de-motivated staff, it did not take long to realise that this experience could be improved. So, with £500 and a small ad placed in a local free magazine over 10 years ago, the business was launched. What services do you offer? Well this is usually the first question I am asked, and my response is, you name it and I will do my utmost to get it or create it. I love clients who want to push the boundaries and do something different. That said, all of our events are one-of-akind and custom designed to meet the unique goals of our valued clients on varying budgets. The list is endless, but being a full-service event management company, we can offer everything from the initial concept and design for our themed parties, to all aspects of a wedding, such as venue sourcing (worldwide), floral design, photography, entertainment, bespoke stationery, Bedouin tents and traditional marquees. We also have a cleaning team to clear up after the event, allowing our clients to go off to breakfast/lunch the following day and come back to a gleaming house. Keeping it simple, we source our food from local suppliers who share our passion for freshness and quality. Our catering is based on good ingredients and it's cooked with passion. Fresh, exciting, with a traceable provenance, that is all we ask. What do you think makes Catherine James Events stand out from its competitors? It’s simple: be passionate, surround yourself with incentivised people, don't overcomplicate things, and place customer service at the top of your list. The team is professionally trained, and each member holds outstanding achievements in their own right. There is also no dealing with numerous people; if you book an event /wedding with Catherine James, that is who you will get – from the initial discussions, to the end of the event. of my fees to Maya’s Hope after watching a BBC documentary on the orphans of The Kalinovka Orphanage in Ukraine. It broke my heart, and I am so proud that Catherine James Events has funded a year's salary for a full time caregiver at the orphanage. What are the first steps a client should consider when they're looking to plan an occasion or event? Don’t dread it, enjoy it! Employ a professional and speak to their previous clients to get as much feedback as possible. You may worry about the cost of a planner, but they are worth their weight in gold. You cannot plan an event from your desk at work! Set your budget and tell your planner; it saves an awful lot of time and manages expectations. Why Maya’s Hope? It is run by Maya herself, who is passionate, inspirational, and cares. It’s non-profit making, so there are no huge salaries, advertising campaigns or overheads, and there is clear traceability as to where the money goes. She also visits every year and I hope to be able to do the same this year. Catherine James You're renowned for your themed events. Have you seen tastes change over the years, and if so, how? We love themes as they give us an opportunity to showcase our talents by creating something completely bespoke. With the new wave of sweet sixteen parties and graduation balls, we are now mirroring the type of events and parties seen across the pond in the US. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? Watching everything come together. My reward comes from seeing my clients laugh and sometimes cry (with joy!) when their special occasion arrives. Also, supporting local businesses and developing talent. Tell us a bit about your involvement with the charity, Maya's Hope. I am lucky to have been helped along the way by the kindness and support of many people, and therefore I am passionate about giving something back. Unfortunately, many people have nothing. I decided to donate a percentage 149 [email protected] 0208 306 2957 07956 340918 www.catherinejamesevents.com [email protected] www.mayashope.org / www.mayashope.org/2012/06/19/ukrainesforgotten-children-bbc4-documentary @MayasHope /MayasHope