The Ultimate Wedding Planner: Hull prop maker to compete in new BBC Two show working with couples planning a wedding

Natasha, the Hull prop maker, says: "As soon as I saw the advert, I knew this show was one for me to apply for and I was so excited to be accepted. I had no idea what to expect and little did I know how much I would learn through the process. Not only the fantastic business and wedding planning tips from Fred, Sara and Raj, but just how much I learnt about myself too.

“I'm nervous to see myself on screen, but ultimately, I can't wait for people to see the couples and hear their beautiful stories, as well as the 'behind the scenes' antics from us planners. It was one of the hardest, yet most rewarding experiences of my life and I wouldn't change a thing.”

She will be joined by seven other contestants:

- Berni, a wedding celebrant from Powys

“When you’re thrown into a unique situation that only those who experienced it with you will ever truly understand it forges bonds that are there for life. I have made the best of friends from this experience. I also have a bigger respect for myself. I did it, I faced my fears and walked towards them. I’m so proud of myself for getting so far out of my comfort zone.

“I strived to be as authentically me as possible throughout. This experience affirmed that I could show ‘all of me’ warts and all, and still be loved, liked, successful and happy. I cannot wait to share that experience and see it come to life on screen.”

- Chantelle, a former hairdresser from Belfast

“I wanted to participate in the show as I had just started in the industry and hadn’t yet had the opportunity to show my full capabilities and really express my creativity. Filming the show was the best experience of my life, it gave me a new direction for my career and unlocked opportunities that I never thought possible.

"I’m excited to watch the show and I feel extremely proud for putting myself out there and taking the leap to progress my career. Being a contestant on the show has been one of my greatest achievements and I can’t wait to see what opportunities will come next.”

- Charlene, a civil servant from Kent

“I joined the show as I wanted to showcase the diversity across the industry and lend my coordinating skills to couples. I had a rather unique experience on the show as I was planning my own wedding at the same time! It was incredibly stressful but worthwhile, and I had wonderful planners around me which definitely helped. I’m nervous about seeing myself on TV and hope I haven’t embarrassed myself too much!"

- Jack, a wedding DJ and host from Leicestershire

“For me, the motivation to take part in the show was a personal challenge. I wanted to prove to my team (including my wife) and also myself, that I could pull a wedding together without relying on them to do everything for me. And what better way to do that than on a national television show?

“I definitely feel that I’ve grown both personally and professionally from taking part in the show. One of the biggest challenges for me was being away from my family. It really helped me to appreciate how lucky I am to have a business that gives me the freedom to spend so much time with them. Whilst I feel I was successful in proving I could work without my team behind me I don’t plan on doing it again.

“I'm excited to see how the show comes together and I can’t wait for my family and friends to see what we got up to. I think it will be quite eye opening for anyone outside of the industry to get an insight into what goes on behind the scenes."

- Shabana, a financial analyst from Luton

“I really wanted to show that in our Asian society being a wedding planner can be just as prestigious as being a doctor or a lawyer. The whole experience was life changing, especially leaving my little ones at home. I know once they watch me on television, they will be super proud. I’m looking forward to watching the show, but at the same time I’m nervous about seeing myself on TV. I hope I do our community proud.”

- Toby, a former dancer from London

"What a crazy ride this experience was. I always had in my mind that wedding and event planning could be a natural progression for me when my stage career came to an end. I feel that a wedding shares the same core elements of a production show and all the things I'm passionate about - creativity, extravagance, people, emotions and stage presence.

“I wanted to dive into the industry and the show not just because weddings make everyone so happy, but I knew it would challenge me in ways I hadn't been challenged before while providing me a platform to demonstrate some of my creative style off-stage and make a meaningful difference to the most important day of someone's life.

"The whole experience changed my life and gave me clarity for a clear path ahead. It was such an emotional journey with many ups and downs. I'm excited but also anxious about it airing - I'm sure I'll be cringing like mad.”

- Yasmin, a florist from Plymouth

"I saw a social post in a local supplier’s group for the show and I thought what a great opportunity. I was very much in the headspace of "if I don't get it, I haven't lost anything," but then I got the call and here we are. It was a whirlwind of love, chaos, emotions, hard work, and creativity that I can't wait to see on screen. I was unapologetically myself throughout, so I am really hoping my passion and commitment shine over my quick mouth and tendency to ruffle feathers. Either way, this will definitely be a show worth watching."

The first episode is set to air on BBC Two on August 8.