It all started with a bridesmaid dress. While others dismissed it as a childhood phase, she was collecting bridal magazines, rewatching wedding movies over and over again, and quietly but unwaveringly building the dream she had envisioned for herself. Today, brides entrust her with one of the most important days of their lives—and she stands beside them with the very same sparkle in her eyes that she had as a six-year-old attending her first wedding. We sat down with Andrea Juhász, wedding planner at Daalarna Garden, to talk about passion, purpose, and the journey that led her to a career in weddings.
When did you first decide that you wanted to become a wedding planner, and what inspired you?
It happened exactly twenty years ago. I was six years old when I was asked to be a bridesmaid at a wedding, and from that very moment, I was completely captivated by the world of weddings. I remember deciding then and there that I wanted to become a wedding planner.
Soon after, I started collecting bridal magazines, and my mother and I would spend hours flipping through them together. I’ve lost count of how many times I watched Bride Wars. There’s a wedding planner in the film, and I distinctly remember saying every single time that one day brides would come to me just like that.
Many people around me assumed it was simply a childhood obsession that I would eventually outgrow. But I never did—and I’m incredibly grateful that I’ve now spent years working as a wedding planner.
I consciously shaped my studies around this dream as well. Throughout both my undergraduate and graduate education, I sought opportunities to broaden my knowledge and develop the skills that support this beautiful profession from every possible angle.
How did you become part of the Daalarna team, and what does Daalarna Garden mean to you?
Like so many young women in Hungary, I was familiar with Daalarna from a very early age. I always followed Anita Benes’s latest collections and admired the world she had created around the brand.
My first connection to Daalarna came when I applied for a position within the company. Unfortunately, at the time, the role could not be reconciled with the demands of my master’s studies, so it wasn’t the right moment. Then, about six months later, I received an email from Daalarna asking whether I would be interested in a wedding planner and sales position at Daalarna Garden.
I remember reading the email several times, just to make sure I wasn’t imagining it. I was genuinely thrilled by the opportunity. That was almost two years ago, and since then I have been working at Daalarna Garden as a Wedding Planner and Sales Manager.
Whenever I speak about Daalarna Garden, I feel a certain sense of emotion. Although I have “only” been part of the team for two years, I am deeply aware that I joined a story that began long before I arrived.
Daalarna Garden is much more than a wedding venue. It is the physical embodiment of values that have always defined the Daalarna brand: beauty, attention to detail, authenticity, and a heartfelt commitment to creating meaningful experiences. Every wedding celebrated here becomes part of a larger story—one that is built on trust, emotion, and unforgettable moments.
Being able to accompany couples through one of the most important chapters of their lives in such a special place is both a privilege and a responsibility. It is something I never take for granted, and it is one of the reasons why I love what I do every single day.
To me, Daalarna Garden is far more than a wedding venue. It feels like the natural continuation of a larger vision—one that had been quietly taking shape for years before the Garden itself was ever created.
When the venue was being built and our entire operation was taking shape, you could strongly feel the influence of Daalarna’s 24 years of experience behind it. The same precision, commitment to quality, and sensitivity to detail that define every Daalarna gown were translated here into a physical space and a carefully curated experience.
Every decision was guided by the knowledge Anita and the team have accumulated through decades of working closely with brides. We understand their needs, recognize their uncertainties, and know what helps them feel truly supported and at ease throughout the planning process.
That is what makes Daalarna Garden so special. It was created not only as a beautiful venue, but as a place designed from a deep understanding of the wedding journey itself—where every detail serves a purpose, and every couple can feel genuinely cared for.
What I find especially inspiring is that Secret Stories has spent the past ten years celebrating stories of women, dreams, weddings, and authentic emotions—stories that resonate far beyond a single day and become lasting memories.
This philosophy is deeply embedded in Daalarna Garden as well. Here, we do not simply organize events—we accompany stories as they unfold. The values that Secret Stories has championed for the past decade—authenticity, quality, and emotional depth—are the very same principles that shape the way we think about weddings. Perhaps that is why so many couples feel, from the very first moment, that Daalarna Garden is more than just a venue; it is a thoughtfully curated world built on experience, care, and genuine human connection.
And perhaps that is what I find most beautiful about it. Daalarna Garden is not a new direction, but rather the natural evolution of a legacy. It is where the experience, sensitivity, and vision that have defined Daalarna for the past 24 years not only continue to live on, but truly come into their own.
To me, Daalarna Garden is proof that a truly strong brand remains authentic when it is able to build its future upon the foundations of its past.
What are your responsibilities from the initial venue tour all the way through to the wedding day?
The process usually begins with an inquiry. Once a couple reaches out, I personally get in touch with them and arrange a venue tour, during which we walk through the entire estate together and discuss every detail of their vision, expectations, and plans for the day.
From there, our communication continues, and once the contract is signed—provided the couple chooses to entrust me with the planning of their wedding—the real journey begins. We move into the planning phase, where I guide them through each step of the process, helping transform their ideas into a cohesive and seamless celebration.
From coordinating timelines and suppliers to refining the smallest details, my role is to ensure that every element comes together harmoniously. The goal is not only to create a beautiful wedding day, but also to make the planning experience enjoyable, reassuring, and as stress-free as possible for the couple. By the time the wedding day arrives, we have already spent months working closely together, building a relationship based on trust, understanding, and a shared vision for one of the most important days of their lives.
One of the things I enjoy most about my work is the opportunity to collaborate with international couples. Quite literally, couples in love travel to us from all around the world to celebrate their wedding at Daalarna Garden. Being part of such diverse and meaningful journeys is incredibly inspiring, as each couple brings their own story, traditions, and perspective. Speaking four languages has been a tremendous advantage in this role.
We always begin with either an in-person or an online consultation, where we discuss the couple’s vision, preferred style, and the key elements that will define their wedding day. This gives me a clear understanding of who they are and allows me to start curating the perfect team of vendors for them.
One thing I consider especially important is offering couples carefully selected options based on their needs and preferences. Rather than overwhelming them with endless possibilities, I present them with thoughtfully curated choices—whether that means option A, B, C, or even D and E. In my experience, one of the biggest challenges for engaged couples who are just entering the world of weddings is knowing how to choose the right vendors and make confident decisions. My goal is to simplify that process and guide them every step of the way.
I handle all communication with the vendors throughout the planning journey, ensuring that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. And, of course, on the wedding day itself, I am by the couple’s side from start to finish, overseeing every detail and coordinating the entire celebration.
I always strive to adapt to each couple’s individual needs and working style. Some couples enjoy discussing every detail and love sharing their ideas with me, seeking advice and feedback along the way. Others prefer to place their complete trust in me—often because they have demanding careers and very little free time. Regardless of the approach, my role remains the same: to provide support, reassurance, and expertise, so they can fully enjoy both the planning process and the wedding day itself.
Daalarna Garden is a truly beautiful wedding venue. Many couples seem to fall in love with it at first sight. Why do you think that is?
Most couples tell me, even after their very first visit, that there is something incredibly welcoming and comforting about the place. They often can’t quite explain it, but they simply feel good here. And I genuinely believe Daalarna Garden has that kind of atmosphere—it has a unique energy that makes people feel instantly at ease. Quite simply, it feels good to be here.
I think part of its magic lies in the fact that it offers so much more than a wedding venue. Especially for our international couples, whose families and friends often live in different countries and rarely have the opportunity to spend meaningful time together, the wedding weekend becomes something truly special.
One of the most rewarding moments for me is speaking with couples on Sunday, after the celebrations have come to an end. Time and again, they tell me that the weekend meant far more to them than just a wedding. It was an opportunity to enjoy uninterrupted time with the people they love most—a full weekend of shared breakfasts, long dinners, afternoons by the pool, heartfelt conversations, and precious moments together.
To me, that is what makes Daalarna Garden so extraordinary. It creates space not only for a beautiful wedding day, but for genuine connection and lasting memories. And all of this unfolds in a stunning natural setting—surrounded by greenery, tranquility, and privacy—close enough to the city to be convenient, yet far enough away to feel like a true escape.
Daalarna Garden is made up of several beautiful spaces, each offering the perfect setting for a special moment during the wedding day. Could you tell us a little more about them?
The entire venue has been designed with remarkable thoughtfulness and functionality, and to me, that is one of its greatest strengths. In fact, during almost every venue tour, couples comment on how intentional everything feels—every space has a purpose, and every detail has been carefully considered.
Starting with the indoor areas, the venue is built around three main spaces. The first is the Winter Garden, which serves as the dinner reception area. It has an incredibly bright and airy atmosphere, and thanks to the abundance of natural light and its connection to the surrounding landscape, it almost feels as though you are dining in the garden itself.
Then there is The Barn, which is probably our most beloved and frequently used space. It is home to the bar, a large inviting sofa, and a projector screen, creating a relaxed and welcoming environment for guests. One of my favorite moments during a wedding is watching people gather here throughout the evening—taking a break from the dance floor, enjoying a drink, catching up with friends and family, and simply soaking in the atmosphere. It naturally becomes a social hub where some of the most genuine conversations of the day take place.
The third space is the Atrium, which serves as the dance floor and the vibrant heart of the celebration. What makes it particularly special is that although the venue can be divided into three distinct areas, it still feels like one cohesive space. This means that whenever an important moment unfolds—a speech, a first dance, or a surprise performance—no one misses out. The wedding party never feels fragmented, yet guests still have the freedom to spend time wherever they feel most comfortable, whether that is dancing, socializing, or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
One of the most charming corners of Daalarna Garden is undoubtedly the living room of the Stone House, which also serves as the bridal suite. It is a beautifully bright and welcoming space where brides can comfortably get ready with their bridesmaids, enjoy hair and makeup preparations, and spend those precious hours before the ceremony together.
Beyond its practicality, it is also one of the venue’s most photogenic locations. Filled with natural light and thoughtfully designed details, it provides the perfect backdrop for capturing some of the most intimate and emotional moments of the wedding day—from the final touches before walking down the aisle to the quiet, unforgettable moments shared with loved ones.
And then, of course, there is the garden itself. One of its most iconic features is the beautiful plane tree avenue that welcomes guests as they arrive, framed by rows of lavender in bloom. I believe first impressions are incredibly important, and here, every guest is greeted by a truly breathtaking view from the very first moment.
The poolside area is undoubtedly one of the most popular settings throughout the wedding weekend. It is typically where we welcome guests upon arrival, with signature cocktails, refreshing drinks, and carefully curated bites served in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere.
Daalarna Garden offers a variety of stunning locations for wedding ceremonies, though couples most often choose the breathtaking oversized English frame as their backdrop. When they later head out for their post-ceremony creative photoshoot, many remark on how the venue is so rich in diverse and captivating spots that it almost feels as if the images were captured across multiple different locations rather than just one estate.
One of the absolute favorites among brides is the one-hectare lavender field, a truly exceptional setting that stands out both as a visual spectacle and as an unforgettable photoshoot location.
Every season dresses the garden in a completely different “attire,” transforming its character in subtle yet striking ways. What makes each period special, and how does the Garden seem to be reborn again and again?
The Daalarna Garden reveals an ever-changing identity throughout the year. In spring, everything awakens at once: lush greenery returns, flowers begin to bloom, and the entire setting feels freshly renewed. It is a season of anticipation and quiet excitement, when even before the peak wedding months begin, there is a palpable sense of new beginnings in the air. By May, the first lavender starts to open, the light is soft and luminous, and the garden takes on an especially fresh, almost poetic atmosphere.
Summer brings abundance and vibrancy. The garden is in full bloom, the pool reflects the long hours of sunlight, and the entire estate is alive with energy from morning until late evening. Guests linger outdoors in elegant summer attire, and the experience often extends into the next day with a shared breakfast and even a refreshing swim—an effortless continuation of celebration.
Autumn transforms the Garden into something more intimate and atmospheric. The warm, golden palette and the slow shift of the foliage create a deeply romantic, contemplative mood. It is an especially beautiful choice for those who prefer a gentler climate and a more subdued, elegant tone.
Winter, in turn, reveals a quieter, more introspective side of the venue. The focus naturally moves indoors, yet the Garden itself never loses its charm. Winter weddings here carry a unique sense of intimacy and warmth, becoming some of the most memorable experiences of the year. And occasionally, when snow falls over the lavender field, the scene becomes almost otherworldly—quiet, unexpected, and unforgettable.
During a wedding, you almost become a member of the couple’s family! What do these connections and intimate moments give you?
It’s truly like that. When, after the wedding, my brides message me saying how strange it feels not to speak every day anymore, and that they miss me, it always fills me with warmth. Because in a very real sense, we do spend half a year, a year, or sometimes even longer going through this journey together.
When I can spend three days with the couple’s family and friends, I’m always welcomed with such heartfelt openness. What I especially love is that, upon arriving at the venue—even before I’ve properly introduced myself—the bride’s mother or a close friend will often greet me with, “Hi Andi, I’ve been so looking forward to meeting you, I’ve heard so much about you.” In moments like these, I’m reminded all over again why I love what I do, and how deeply I cherish this profession.
But perhaps even more moving than that is the trust I am given. The fact that, on one of the most significant days of their lives, there are moments, concerns, and emotions that they choose to share only with me—and situations in which they know they can rely on me completely.
I remember a colleague once telling me at a wedding that it was so evident how much these people genuinely mattered to me, and how sincerely I cared for them. No matter what I am doing throughout the day, part of my attention is always on the couple. I’m constantly observing, making sure everything is running smoothly, anticipating their needs, and looking for ways to help. It was such a simple remark, yet it is one I will carry with me for a very long time.
2025 brought many beautiful celebrations to the Daalarna Garden. What was the greatest challenge, and what was the most memorable moment?
We are fortunate to look back on an extraordinary collection of weddings—it was a truly wonderful year. The greatest challenge was ensuring that every couple received the same level of care, attention, and dedication, regardless of when their wedding took place. Maintaining that consistency is something I care deeply about and consider one of the most important aspects of my work.
I believe it is important to highlight the entire Daalarna Garden team, because every successful wedding is as much their achievement as it is anyone else’s. Teamwork lies at the heart of everything we do, and creating these exceptional celebrations is always a collective effort.
I always strive to ensure that the entire weekend unfolds in a relaxed, joyful, and stress-free atmosphere—not only for the couple, but also for their guests and the creative partners involved. Creating that sense of ease is something I consider just as important as the flawless execution of the event itself.
It is difficult to single out one most memorable moment, but there is one that has stayed with me. Last summer, I worked with a couple with whom I felt an immediate connection from our very first meeting. During their initial visit to the venue, they were already deeply moved by what they saw.
Almost a year later, when they returned for their wedding day and arrived at the Daalarna Garden, both the bride and groom were overcome with emotion once again. Seeing them shed tears in that moment was incredibly touching—such a sincere, pure expression of joy and anticipation.
Moments like these remind me how special it is to work in a place that evokes such profound emotions. There is something truly extraordinary about being part of a setting that becomes woven into one of the most meaningful memories of people’s lives.
