We interviewed Maria Jakulis-Allen the founder of Detail to find out more about her business.
Q – Tell us about your company.
Detail is a boutique event styling and planning studio set up to create unique and detail-orientated weddings and celebrations. Inspired by nature, fashion, architecture and interiors, my goal is to deliver personable and memorable experiences, collaborating with clients to create something truly stylish.
I set up Detail in 2018 after planning my own geodome festival wedding and realised how valuable stylists and planners are in the lead-up and on the day itself! I’m 50 percent planner and 50 percent creative designer, so after 10 years of creative event producing and a background in interior design, it felt right to become a wedding designer. I wanted to be able to create something magical with a focus on all the little details and the couples themselves, with who I love collaborating and getting to know.
Q – What packages/services do you offer couples?
I offer planning and styling services as they go hand in hand for weddings, along with set-up and on the day coordination. I cater each service to the couple depending on how much support they would like, so it's bespoke to them. Some couples like a little creative support in the lead up with my set-up and styling on the day, while others prefer the full design and styling service, so I offer what feels right for them after our initial consultation. For marquee and outdoor weddings, the day before and on-the-day coordination is beneficial as there are a lot of moving parts. This is one of my most popular services to free up the couple, so they can relax and leave the jobs to me!
I also have a hired décor collection that's ever-growing, from elegant candlesticks and contemporary pieces to boho furnishings.
Q – What should couples expect when booking your services?
I take a personalised approach with couples and love to understand their passions and ideas for their wedding. I like to get to know them and then create something unique to them and their vision. I am a meticulous planning and project manager, so along with my creative input, I will be a support to couples, alleviating any stress or worries. On the day, I'm the first port of call for couples behind the scenes taking care of anything that comes up so they can enjoy their day! After working with couples so closely over time, I usually become a good friend too!
Q – What's your favourite wedding you've worked on and why?
Every wedding is unique to each couple, and they all have different elements, which I love, so I could not pinpoint a particular one. I have loved all of them! However, some of my favourites are those which offer a blank canvas space as they give so much opportunity when it comes to designing the space and décor. I love to design spaces practically whilst being devoted to making it look beautiful, down to the finest details.
Q – How long before the wedding should couples get in touch?
This can vary tremendously depending on the service chosen, but generally, I can work with couples from two years before their wedding for planning support, through to six weeks before for on the day coordination. In terms of styling, it's great to hear from couples once they have their venue booked or six months before their wedding so we can secure the ideal suppliers for design and décor. However, I do take bookings with short lead times as I love a challenge and it adds to the excitement!
Q – What's your favourite part of the job?
Working with couples is by far the most enjoyable part, alongside the creative aspects which I get to think about every day, wherever I am, my head is always spinning with ideas!
Q – Do you have any top tips for couples looking for a stylist?
Historically a stylist or planner is seen as luxurious and costly, but these days planners and stylists can save not only time but also money. I work closely with recommended suppliers and use my experience to guide couples on the best ways to manage their budgets. For example, I always suggest re-purposing ceremony flowers for the reception, when they are so beautiful and cost you money, make the most of them for the whole day!
Along with tips like these, if couples want to spend time with friends and family before their wedding, I would say a stylist is possibly some of the most well-spent money in their budget. Not only do they help create a cohesive and stylish design, but they also take care of the set-up, check each name place is in the right spot to light candles, and every little detail is perfect.
I offer a no-obligation consultation and quote before any commitment, which is important for couples, so they can decide if it's right for them and if I’m right for them too!
To find out more, visit www.detailstyling.com
