HOW good would it be to have a wedding planner with five years experience as a captain in the British forces?

According to Herefordshire entrepreneur Annelisa Foster, it's the perfect way to guarantee troops are rounded up, opposing camps are dealt with and logistical operations go without a hitch.

"People thought I was crazy when I told them I was going to use the skills and qualities I developed in the forces to set up a wedding planning company," the 28-year-old said.

"But skills such as attention to detail, cost efficiency, working to strict deadlines, budgets and keeping your head when everyone loses theirs are equally important."

Annelisa, who left the Army four months ago, realised her skills could be put to good use after organising a fund-raising football match for orphans she met while serving in Turkey.

"The money we raised was used to redecorate the local orphanage and school for deaf children in the area," she said.

"I guess it was this that gave me the bug for organising events."

Services provided by Annelisa Foster Event Management are aimed at normal couples with a range of budgets as opposed to the stereotypical "nouveau riche society girls".

"Not everyone has the time to plan and make all the arrangements for their wedding with work commitments and lifestyles," Annelisa said.

"Couples might want something different and don't know where to start, or the thought of arranging the most important day of their lives could be quite daunting.

"Unlike over-the-top, control freak wedding planners in the movies, a good planner will make sure final decisions come down to the couple."

For information on Annelisa Foster's services - which include organising a "one month to go" wedding - call 01544 328453 or email annelisafoster@supalife.com.