Chitter Chatter is a series all about inspirational women in the wedding industry whom I greatly admire. These women successfully combine running their own business with married life and, in a lot of cases, raising a young family. The ‘Chitter Chatter’ twist is is they have to answer my questions in just 140 characters or less….
Today I’m chitter chattering to Emma Taylor, wife, mother and owner of Paperless Wedding, her online wedding stationery business. She took maternity leave in 2012 and never went back, instead dedicating her time to raising her children and growing Paperless Wedding. She lives in East London with her husband, 2 year old daughter, and 11 week old son.
What was your first job?
I worked as a hairdresser’s assistant on a Saturday. Washing hair, sweeping floors making tea. Oh the glamour!
Tell me more about your career before launching Paperless Wedding
I was Head of Broadcast for a company that delivered TV Ads digitally to TV stations. Now I deliver email invites to guests….
What made you start Paperless Wedding?
When we got married we created our own website and emailed invites with RSVP through the site. People loved it, so here we are!
What inspires you to keep growing and developing your business?
We offer something different, we promote British designers, we give couples the freedom to create, and I love weddings!
What obstacles have you overcome along the way?
Getting used to working alone, lack of funding, balancing motherhood and working from home and never having enough time!
What is the best opportunity that Paperless Wedding has brought you?
I love watching my children grow, spending time at home and having that quality time that full time working mums don’t get.
What’s your best tip for a work / life balance?
Don’t talk work after 9pm, close the door of your workspace when not working, laugh a lot, keep focused and make lists.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever been given?
Be nice to people on the way up as you never know when you will meet them on the way down. Networking is golden and opens so many doors!
97% of Britain’s small creative businesses are run by women. Why do you think this is?
Woman can multi-task in general and to run a business you need to be accountant, PR, Admin and creative. Also be a wife and mother!
How did you meet your husband?
We met in 2005 doing Jekyll & Hyde the Musical, at Wiltons Music Hall. He was on stage performing and I was backstage.
What was the highlight of your wedding day?
The doors opening, seeing all my friends and family and then turning the corner to see my man beaming back at me. Brings a tear to my eye now!
Was there anything standout about what you wore?
I wore my mum’s veil during the day and changed into a feathered, sparkly fascinator for the evening
Looking back, is there anything you would change about your wedding?
More time….but other than that no!
What are your top tips for brides-to-be when planning their wedding?
Stick within budget, make a list, share the jobs, remain focused on the two of you and most importantly HAVE FUN!
Secret to a happy marriage?
Any decision can be solved with ‘Paper, Scissors, Stones’ and also don’t go to bed on an argument. Make time for a dance, even in the kitchen!
Favourite quote?
You were right
Favourite gadget?
Our coffee grinder
Favourite film?
Moulin Rouge
Last holiday?
Portugal
Currently reading?
Red Magazine
If you could be trapped in a lift with any living person who would it be and why?
Ewan Macgregor, accent, talented, good looking, travelled, the list could go on.
Tell me something about you that most people don’t know… preferably non work-related
Despite being very very organised, I have NEVER been able to keep my bedroom tidy!
What is your guilty pleasure?
Butterscotch Angel delight
What did you do today?
Enjoyed a meal out with my “mum’ friends that I met while doing ante-natal yoga over two years ago. Inspiring, supportive, fantastic friends.
What’s next?
Cup of tea and a biscuit every time!
Thank you Emma! Enjoy more of Paperless Wedding on:
