Crafting Your Unforgettable Wedding
One of Australia’s Top Planners Shares Her Secret
Centred Magazine caught up with Fiona Deans-Dundas, the acclaimed event planner whose company, Couture Wedding Planning, has been recognised with numerous national awards, including Australian Wedding Planner of the Year.
Couture Wedding Planning
I’m a seasoned wedding planner with over 15 years of experience and a passion for creating unforgettable celebrations. My journey started in hospitality, where I honed my event management skills at renowned hotels across the globe. A passion for weddings led me to Couture Wedding Planning, where I combine creativity and meticulous organisation to design truly special days. I love working closely with couples, bringing their visions to life, and exceeding their expectations.
Honoured and Humbled
I’m incredibly grateful for the recognition Couture Wedding Planning has received over the years. Being named one of Australia’s Top 5 Wedding Planners for the past 5 years by the ABIA is a true honour.
And to have won Wedding Planner of the Year for NSW in 2011, and then nationally in 2015 and 2016, is something I’ll always cherish. These awards are a testament to the dedication and passion I pour into every wedding, and they inspire me to continually strive for excellence.
Find a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.
The best part of my job is transforming dreams into reality. I thrive on the creative process – from selecting stunning florals to crafting detailed timelines. But truly, it’s about the people. I love building relationships with my couples and creating unforgettable moments for such a special time in their lives. It’s even more rewarding when I get to continue being part of their journey, helping with other milestones like baby showers, birthdays, and christenings down the road.
Challenges & Rewards
Weddings can be emotional, and navigating different personalities and expectations requires compassion and expertise. My goal is to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for every couple. The flexibility of owning my own business allows me to balance my passion with a fulfilling personal life.
From Intimate to Grand
I’ve planned weddings of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to a spectacular event with 1,200 guests! No matter the scale, my focus remains on meticulous detail and creating a memorable experience.
Getting Creative
One of the most unique weddings we’ve ever planned was a charming picnic wedding for 100 guests. It was a glorious day, perfectly tailored to the couple’s laid-back personalities. They didn’t feel a traditional ballroom wedding suited them, so we embraced something completely different—and it turned out beautifully.
Instead of tables, we styled picnic blankets as guest seating. Each blanket featured personalized hats with the guests’ names, serving as both place cards and a thoughtful keepsake.
For the meal, every picnic blanket was paired with its own basket, filled with locally sourced delights like artisanal cheeses, cold meats, fresh salads, and crusty bread—all elegantly wrapped in brown paper and twine.
Adding to the charm, we created a stunning fruit display using a vintage trolley as the centrepiece. To keep the atmosphere fun and interactive, guests enjoyed lawn games like badminton and croquet. The result was a relaxed yet beautifully styled wedding that celebrated the couple’s individuality while creating unforgettable memories for their loved ones.
Services & Packages
I understand that every couple comes to me at a different stage in their planning process, with varying needs and budgets. That’s why I offer four tailored packages designed to provide the perfect level of support, from initial consultations to full-service planning.
Fiona’s top 3 tips for brides to be
1. Start with the Big Decisions
Secure your venue and key vendors first. These are the foundations of your wedding, and popular options book out quickly. Once these are locked in, the rest will naturally fall into place.
2. Be Clear on Your Vision
Before diving into Pinterest boards, take time to reflect on what you truly want your day to feel like. Focus on what’s important to you and your partner rather than trying to fit into trends or expectations. This will ensure your wedding is personal and meaningful.
3. Ask for Help
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, so don’t hesitate to bring in professional help. A wedding planner can take the stress out of the process, streamline your decisions, and make the experience enjoyable—allowing you to focus on celebrating this special chapter of your life.
Event Inspiration!
Follow Fiona on Instagram @coutureweddingplanning
Even if you don’t need her services, the images of her events are simply divine!
www. coutureweddingplanning.com.au