Meet Toby
''Hello darlings, let's have fun shall we?! ''
Born and raised in a remote village in West Sussex, I still pinch myself that I'm now the proud owner of The House Of Toby and I am able to design and deliver meaningful and life long memories for my amazing clients on their days of such importance.
A true creative at heart, I leapt into the professional theatre industry at the age of just 17 while also working in the luxury hospitality market of silver service banquets. My career as a dancer and aerialist flourished and took me to 96 countries, allowing opportunities to work with some of the most ground breaking creative minds in the world....
From Warner Brothers movie sets, the stages of Disney and premier cruise lines (Celebrity, Regent Seven Seas, Princess and Crystal), I danced around the world. I Can Canned in France at Royal Palace and La Nouvelle Eve (a division of the Moulin Rouge company), undertook a European tour and managed entire production teams in large scale casino shows in Macau, China.
I feel blessed I was able to work alongside and learn from top stage producers, Set designers, Costume creators, Digital effects teams and large scale event management teams. My events reflect this wealth of knowledge and experience and I'm so passionate to share some of this magic with you.
As I started to travel less and slow down the pace of my dancing career I was able to rekindle my previously acquired luxury hospitality experience and enjoy a secondary career in six star environments. I respected the discipline of Silver Service and was incredibly passionate about delivering exceptional service and management standards to appreciative guests. I was a senior waiter for celebrity chef Marco Pierre White and have managed many establishments around the UK.
A new dream was conceived when I was asked to assist with the planning of my best friend's wedding. The penny dropped and I envisioned my new path being laid out immediately before my eyes. It became clear that I had found my niche where I could harmoniously combine my two fields of expertise - Creativity and Hospitality.
What services do I Offer and why am I different from the industry?
- Styling
- Floristry
- Creative consultancy
- Entertainment production
- Master of Ceremonies
- Advice
- Friendship
With my background in theatre and luxury hospitality, I've been told on multiple occasions that I bring a unique twist and perspective to event and wedding planning. I understand the importance of storytelling, ambiance and creating a captivating atmosphere. Drawing upon my production knowledge, I love transforming ordinary spaces and themes into extraordinary settings and stories that leave a lasting impression on your guests.
I'm a proud planner and provider of artistry and entertainment for the Shangri-la events in the Shard and Tower Bridge, created by 'The Proposers'.
I have gained a valued partnership with Hyatt Hotels and am now a supplier of extravagant ticketed events and white weddings at Andaz London Liverpool Street.
My extensive experience in the luxury hospitality industry enables me to deliver impeccable attention to detail and secured me the position of a Chairman of the panel at Hyatt Hotels 2023 Annual Wedding Fair.
An example of my in-field experience in high-end hospitality is working as the Senior Waiter for 3 Michelin star chef Marco Pierre White himself in his London restaurant. I cater to diverse preferences and ensure that every aspect of the event, from the decor to the cuisine, is executed flawlessly. My teams’ ability to work within different budget constraints showcases my resourcefulness and creativity, ensuring that my respected clients receive the highest production value possible, regardless of their financial limitations.
My personal connections and global network of talented suppliers, artists and vendors which I have built over the last sixteen years while working around the world are invaluable to me. This respected and loving network has influenced the building of this house.
Event planning requires a combination of organizational and management skills, vision, boldness and the ability to deliver and execute and necessary logistical aspects to ensure an unforgettable experience is guaranteed.
Talk to Toby and start your journey now!