Sheila has worked in hospitality for many years, both in Australia and the UK, including hosting exclusive weddings at stately home in the English countryside. She has always gravitated towards roles where she could take care of people and create memorable experiences.

At Potters, the concierge role was introduced to provide couples with a dedicated resource, someone they could lean on for guidance, reassurance and support throughout their special day.

“We wanted couples to feel like they had someone entirely focused on them,” Sheila explains.

“It is about being there to answer questions, keep them calm and make sure they feel cared for from start to finish.”

The concierge experience begins well before the ceremony. Most Potters packages include use of the Penthouse Dayroom, a private two-storey retreat where the wedding party can relax, prepare and spend the morning together.

Sheila is there to welcome them, help them settle in and make sure the morning fl ows smoothly.

She sets out brunch, organises drinks and checks in with both sides of the wedding party throughout the day. More importantly, she makes sure couples feel supported and cared for.

“It is about creating a rapport so they are not stressed,” Sheila says.

“They feel like they are being looked after and that nothing has been forgotten.”

Her presence means couples do not have to think about the little things, like whether there are enough snacks, where their shoes are or if the schedule is on track. It allows the morning to feel calm and enjoyable rather than rushed.

As the day progresses, Sheila’s role shifts into quiet coordination. She sets out name cards, checks bomboniere, ensures décor is in place and keeps a close eye on timing. Most importantly, she tunes into what matters most to each couple.

“There is always one thing that is really important to a bride or groom,” she says.

“It might seem small to anyone else, but to them it is everything. My job is to pick up on that and make sure it happens.”

It might be a request for a particular guest to have a special seat, a concern about not being late for the ceremony, or making sure elderly relatives are comfortable. Sheila is there to notice these details and quietly make them happen.

“I do not really do stress,” Sheila explains.

“I am solution driven, not problem driven. There is always a way forward, even if it is not the original plan.”

Her calm confidence helps couples feel reassured in those last moments before walking down the aisle. Nerves often give way to excitement when they know someone is there looking after them.

Even after hundreds of weddings, Sheila still fi nds herself smiling at the same three moments. She loves stepping into the dayroom to see the bride ready in her dress, and she treasures the walk down to the aisle where anticipation is at its peak. Later, she says, the introductions into the reception bring a completely different kind of energy.

“The adrenaline and excitement are totally different then,” she says.

“The stress is gone, they are married and they are ready to celebrate.”

Sheila’s years of experience mean she has plenty of practical advice for couples and their bridal parties. Her tips are simple but often overlooked.

“If your dress has button loops, bring a crochet hook. It will save so much time,” she says.

“Wear shoes you are comfortable in and do not make your bridesmaids wear heels if they never usually wear them. Grooms should avoid leaving phones in pockets, and practice tying a bow tie before the big day.”

She also reminds couples to think about comfort throughout the day. Gel inserts in shoes can prevent sore feet, umbrellas are handy even if it looks sunny, and a simple sewing kit can solve last-minute wardrobe emergencies.

Her final piece of advice, however, is about perspective.

“Remember, the day is about you two sharing your joy and your love,” she says.

“Do not let other people steal your dream.”

From setting up the dayroom and organising refreshments to managing timelines and calming nerves, Sheila is one of the key reasons couples describe Potters as one of Melbourne’s most beautiful and stress-free wedding venues.

More than a concierge, she is a resource couples can lean on, someone whose sole focus is making sure they feel cared for, supported and ready to enjoy their day.

“It is a joy, because everybody is happy,” Sheila says. “You start the day smiling and you end the day smiling. What could be better than that?”