Welcome back to our third instalment in our Tutor Profiles blog series. The idea for this originally came to me when I was reminiscing about a particularly inspiring tutorial I had when I had hit a creativity ‘brick wall’ at art school. My tutor bought in some of her work to share and I was blown away with the beauty, it really inspired me to get back into work and follow my own path rather than listening to all the background ‘noise’ that had distracted me. So whether you are powering ahead in your work, need a little motivation to get back into it, or are here to find out more about the Academy, our expert tutors are the perfect people to inspire and educate you. Today let me introduce you to a wonderful recent addition to our New Zealand campus tutor team, Elizabeth Waterson! I asked Elizabeth to tell us about her industry journey, and the events that she loved working on through her business Elizabeth Jean Weddings.
How did you get into the industry?
I was born and raised in New Zealand.
I became a student of the academy nearly 10 years ago now. I always had a passion for event management, logistics and an early career in retail management really flourished my skills. I relocated to Australia to pursue a career in the events industry.
After having a number of opportunities to work alongside some of the most well-known wedding planners, I finished my studies and become a recognised wedding planner through the Australian Academy of Wedding & Event Planning and launched my own business. After 8 successful years in Australia my family and I relocated back to our home country of New Zealand.
What is the most memorable event you have worked on?
As cliché as it sounds every wedding I have planned or been involved in from coordination, management to styling would have to be my ‘favourite’. Every wedding has had elements that differed for so many reasons. In saying that one of the most memorable celebrations would have been in early 2016.
The location truly summed up so many years living the dream abroad. This location held a special place in my heart right in the centre of Country Victoria.
Set alongside a heritage Bluestone homestead, over 30 degree heat, the fine dust from the red dirt, a whole lot of laughter and topped off with one epic guest list.
This wedding was a true reflection of the couples personality and an honest celebration of their love and commitment. Taking moments as a couple to reflect on the day is so important after so many months of planning.
What’s the best piece of career advice you have received?
It is important to listen, be happy to learn from your mistakes, gain knowledge and experience in the many opportunities that will arise in your journey.
I feel strongly about being true to yourself, who you are and what your values are. Honesty and integrity will get you so much further within your career and achieve your sustainable business goals. If you end up cutting corners to get to the finish line you will stand there alone.
