SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT: SONAL DAVE

PLEASE INTRODUCE YOURSELF

Hi everyone,
This is me. My name is Sonal, I am over 50; now come on, I know you do not believe me, but it is true. I was born in Uganda and my roots take me back to India.
I am married to Dhani who works in the Design side of Construction and we have 2 dogs, Neo and Ri.
Let me know what else you would like to know about me………

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO START YOUR BUSINESS

I have previously worked in the Civil Service going from Admin Officer to Deputy Director but during this time I personally encountered discrimination, unconcious bias, unfair treatment and some bullying for not being like the large percentage of civil servants. After 20+ years it was time for me to leave, take some time out for me and decide what the rest of my journey would be like.

This is where the story of my passion to be in the events industry, loud and proud as one of 2 Asian female Celebrants and Toastmasters starts. The words Love, personalised and memorable were the key focus for me not just as words but as deep meaning.

I love what I do and each couple I work with become friends and part of the rest of my journey.

HOW DOES YOUR TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE?

There is no typical day for me. Each day has its own tasks and to do lists and I always complete the easy ones. However, one day a week is dedicated to those tasks that keep getting moved to the bottom of the pile. If I can gert one of those done then all is good.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB?

Getting to know the couple plus the part of the ceremony where they say their personal vows to each other is just so wonderful and emotional

AND WHAT IS THE WORST PART?

The interference from others who seem to know what the couple want

WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE BEEN GIVEN?

Listen to understand not listen to speak

WHAT WOULD YOU WANT COUPLES TO KNOW ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?

Couples need to know that I am open, honest, engaging and love telling stories. My focus is the two of you and what is important to you. Getting to know you as a couple is just as important as your special day.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR COUPLES PLANNING A WEDDING?

Be clear what it is that you want and do not be swayed by other peoples opinions. Its ok to hear other people’s thoughts and opinions but the decision must be yours.

Be clear on just how much you want to spend. Its so easy to overspend as there are a lot of things that can be included.

Start with the venue, celebrant, catering, music, toastmaster and then everything else to ensure an amazing day.

Do get wedding insurance.

WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU DIDN’T WORK IN THE WEDDING INDUSTRY?

ooh now this is an interesting question. I have a passion for teaching communication skills as I believe this is a life skill that should be part of the curriculum. So I would be doing more with my Public Speaking skills and hopefully getting to children locally, nationally and internationally.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR TIME OFF?

I love music. That could be listening or having a jam session with hubby on guitar.

DREAM HOLIDAY?

For me, it has to be a holiday with a beach and an all inclusive hotel, full of spa treatments, champagne, chips, chocoate and cakes plus lots of cocktails made with champagne.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS?

In 10 years time, I would love to have inspired a few more Asian women to have trained to be Celebrants and Toastmasters. I would still want to be continuing my services and maybe have another dog. My wish would be to be able to conduct services that include my hubby who is a professional guitarist and plays music of all genres and sings as well.

You can find Sonal’s directory page here, check out her website, follow on Instagram or just shoot them an email right away!