Looking for a Wedding Planner in Bali? Read This First

If there’s been one common theme for our Bali Brides, it’s that they’ve consistently recommended that a reputable, reliable wedding planner is a must – especially for a destination wedding. One of the leading players in the game is the creative and highly regarded Chimene Harper of HarperCo. We were lucky enough to have a moment of her time…

In a coconut shell, tell us about your lovely self...
Well, I’m originally from Cape Town, South Africa. I’ve been travelling and living abroad for the last 17 years. Before Bali, I spent 4 years in London, did some back and forth between New York and London, and spent 6 months in Spain. I came to Bali on a surf trip with my brother and somehow ended up staying for 12 years!

And your business?
HarperCo Events is a small business run by a passionate team. We are creative and love producing original events. We are always up for a challenge! I think we are unique because we don’t create cookie cutter package weddings — each one of our weddings has been different from any we have done before. 

Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Everything! Life, nature, different cultures, travelling, books, fashion, photography, art and sometimes even my 5-year-old daughter.

What’s your superpower?
My superpower has to be my drive and passion. I work day and night (and sometimes into the wee hours of the morning) making sure that everything is covered and all my clients are happy. I’m always on the go and coming up with new ideas, looking for new vendors, sometimes sitting and crafting and making things myself if I can’t source them anywhere else. I put a lot of time and a lot of love into my business!

How big a part do your couples play in the creative process — or are they generally happy for you to run the show?
Being a small company that only takes on a limited number of weddings per month, it allows me to personally deal with each of my clients from start to finish. Many of my clients come to me with lots of ideas and it is really my job to sort through those ideas and come up with a solid concept based on their ideas and style, adding my spin on things where needed.


What are the wedding trends that never go out of fashion?
I think the whole Boho, effortless, elegant, non-traditional wedding look has been around for a while and I think is here to stay. I’m very thankful that I don’t really get any requests for banquet chairs with sashes anymore!

And finally..What is the BEST part of your job?
The best part of my job is when all the planning comes together and my clients are happy. Nothing makes me happier than my clients telling me that everything is above and beyond what they ever expected. I strive for that with every event. It’s a very gratifying feeling knowing that you have been a big part of putting together one of the most memorable days in a couple’s life.


List of Loves

Best coffee in Bali? Revolver.
Favourite Cocktail? Pomegranate Martini.
Best Sunset Spot? I’m not into all the busy tourist spots — my favourite place for sunset is on a beautiful beach with a cold beer and good company!
Yoga or Gym?  Gym. I’m a spin class junky! I’m way to awkward for yoga!
Scooter or Car? Scooter. Bali traffic is the worst. I would have the worst road rage if I drove a car.
Best place in Bali to relax and unwind? Padang Padang Beach.
Any secret spots or hidden gems you’d care to share? I love little cafes with good wholesome food. Savage Kitchen in Canggu is my current favourite. Simple but so good!
What are you listening to? My favourite playlist right now is Coldplay, One Republic, Sam Smith, Passenger, Ellie Goulding and Charlie Puth.
Favourite Insta account?@greenweddingshoes
What song changes your mood instantly?
 Currently – Justin Timberlake’s Cant Stop the Feeling! always puts me in a good mood.
What quote or mantra do you live by? Good things don’t come to those who wait. Good things come to those who work their arses off, take chances and follow their dreams!