Spotlight on…the Events Team
15 October 2013
Each year Edinburgh Castle plays host to an eclectic and varied mix of events from corporate dinners, costumed performances and intimate weddings to the world famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This week we turn the spotlight on Events Coordinator Emma Bowie as we go behind the scenes to discover what it’s like to work in the Events Team at Edinburgh Castle.
Who all make up the Events Team at the castle?
There are seven of us including myself, all working on various aspects of events. We also rely on the help and expertise from the staff in our guiding, admissions, retail and catering teams to ensure events run smoothly on the day.
So you all do something different?
Yes, the work of the Events Team at Edinburgh Castle is actually very varied. I work with Linda and Eric on all filming, photography and living history events at the castle.
Laura, our Bookings Manager, is the first point of contact for all wedding and corporate event enquiries. Lynn, Events Sales Manager, is responsible for wedding events while Caroline manages the corporate side of things taking place in the castle. And Elizabeth runs all Scottish Government and military events, which generally take place in the magnificent setting of the Great Hall.
How long have you all been working at Edinburgh Castle?
The range is rather varied, our newest member of staff has been with us for just over one year while our longest serving member of staff has been around for about 20 years!
What’s the most exciting part of the job?
Knowing that no two days are ever going to be the same!
Are there any big events planned in the future?
Absolutely! Every year, Edinburgh Castle plays host to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, we have concerts on the esplanade – this year we had Paul Weller, Jessie J and Runrig and then we have the fantastic , fireworks on Hogmanay and at the end of the Edinburgh International Festival.
What is the strangest thing you have had to deal with?
That’s a tough one! Laura took a phone call before last year’s Christmas launch in the Queen Anne Tearoom asking if a reindeer (a real one, not a Christmas decoration!) could be brought up for the event! Earlier this year, we ran an event over the Burns weekend and took various photographs with the Evening News with Laura, the chef, a giant haggis and a knife perched around various parts of the site – I think it’s fair to say that we terrified a few of our overseas visitors that day!
What is your favourite thing about working at Edinburgh Castle?
It’s such a unique and fascinating place to work, plus you always get to meet a great range of really interesting people. But I think one of the things I love the most is the view as you go down the Lang Stairs after a busy day at work – it’s magnificent!
Keir Booth (Marketing Executive) & Emma Bowie (Events Coordinator)
Edinburgh Castle
