When it comes to planning a luxurious wedding, Mark Niemierko is the expert in making dreams come true. Having planned some pretty lavish events; such as Julia and James Corden’s Babington House wedding to Rochelle and Marvin Humes’ Blenheim Palace nuptials, he has a very high reputation within the wedding industry.
Mark Niemierko is the master of exclusive events and knows exactly what works and what doesn't. He prides himself on creating an amazing experience for guests as well as the wedding couple. Niemierko’s wedding planning experience is of such a high level of care and attention, that the service is only offered to a select few couples each year; a maximum of five, with Mark Niemierko as a couples personal wedding planner.
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So, we were keen to find out whether Mark preferred country weddings or city weddings and have conducted a short interview with him to find out.
Which city do you most recommend getting married in and why?
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I feel overall a couple should select a location with meaning to them. However, naturally for me being a Londoner, I may be biased. When you factor in all the culture, charm and history London has on it’s doorsteps, I do feel it’s hard to beat.
Do you think that city weddings are now more on trend than country weddings?
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Overall I don’t believe in trends. The only trend a couple should follow is being themselves. However, countryside weddings are certainly more popular with the plus side of couples taking themselves, their family and guests away for a weekend and turning an estate, or house into their own for the weekend. Although, city chic weddings definitely do still have a place, offering a different vibe and experience for guests.
If the couple aren’t worried about their budget, would you still suggest a city wedding over a country wedding?
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Again I’d recommend – budget aside – to do what they feel most comfortable with. Once I get to know a couple early on in the plans – I then might push them more in one direction as I feel it’s more fitting to them and their guests. For example with a large international guest list I feel a city has more to offer, or even a combination of the two. For example, they could rent the Belmond British Pullman the night prior to a wedding – thus the wedding started in London, then moved onto the Cotswolds.
Which are your favourite city venues?
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My favourite London venues vary from the timeless statement of the V&A, to the grandeur of Lancaster House, the exclusivity of the Royal Opera House to the urban charm of the Round House in Camden.
Which are your favourite country venues?
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Hands down my favourite countryside hotel is Lime Wood in the New Forest. This is down to its well thought-out interiors and spaces, but more so the team here top the service I have experienced anywhere else. True luxury is definitely within a venue’s team. Cliveden House also offers a grander setting, and its proximity to London makes it easy for international guests to travel and enjoy both the city and countryside during their visit.
Would you say that a city wedding is more affordable than a destination wedding?
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100% - it’s a myth that countryside weddings are more affordable. For an above average wedding you get more for your money in London. This is generally because there are less expenses for suppliers and guests don’t need as much babysitting as you naturally have a lot more on your doorstep in a city. It can all be done within the countryside, but there will be additional costs.
Do you think country venues have any advantages or things that can’t be offered at a city venue?
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Certainly, you typically have more outdoor space, although don’t ever book a venue based on its gardens within the UK because of our unpredictable weather. Usually there’s quite a few more options with flow and use of spaces. It also offers a getaway for guests that might live and work in the city. Certainly, myself and my team look forward with excitement as we pack up and decamp to a countryside location for a weekend wedding.
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We were really interested in reading this expert information from Mark, and were especially surprised that city weddings are actually considered cheaper than country weddings! If you’re wanting to find out more about Mark Niemierko, send an enquiry on Guides for Brides now:
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Widely regarded as Londons premier wedding plannerAlongside Niemierko’s world-famous wedding planning, Mark is also a mastermind when it comes to birthdays, cabaret parties and gala dinners for the most discerning hosts. Find out more about Niemierko Events and Niemierko Kids now.