The Business of Luxury Weddings

In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Amrit Dhillon-Bains—founder of Anais Events—for a conversation that goes beyond weddings and deep into identity, resilience, and leadership. Known for her powerful presence and soulfully intentional celebrations, Amrit shares what it's meant to build a globally recognized brand while holding true to her values. From navigating cultural expectations to setting healthy boundaries in a demanding industry, she reflects on how her own journey has shaped the way she leads, serves clients, and shows up in her work. She also talks candidly about the pressure of representation—what it's like to lead with excellence while carrying the weight of being "the first" or "the only." And why, in her words, belonging isn't something you find—it's something you build. If you've ever wrestled with identity, struggled to set boundaries, or wondered if you're allowed to do things differently—this episode is a quiet permission slip to trust yourself.

In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Emily Coyne—creative director, founder, and force behind Emily Coyne Events—for a masterclass in elegance, leadership, and intentionality. Known for her elevated simplicity and seamless execution, Emily shares how her team creates weddings that feel effortless, emotionally resonant, and deeply personal—without sacrificing operational precision. From her background in finance to building a high-performing team grounded in trust and clarity, she unpacks the systems, rituals, and values that drive her world-class client experience. She also opens up about the quieter side of leadership—why presence is more powerful than performance, and how grace under pressure builds more than events; it builds reputation. And in one of the episode's most personal moments, James, Otto and Emily reflect on a real-life rupture in their working relationship—what went wrong, how it almost cost them future projects, and what it looked like to repair trust with honesty, humility, and a phone call. It's an episode full of depth—for anyone who values integrity, growth, and beauty.

In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Julian Leaver, the celebrated event planner of Julian Leaver Events, former hotelier, and master of gracious hosting, for a conversation that redefines what luxury really means. Julian shares why beautiful design is only the beginning—and how emotional intelligence, anticipation, and warmth create the kind of experiences that guests never forget. With roots in Southern hospitality and a sharp understanding of client psychology, Julian unpacks how he makes people feel cared for at every turn—without ego, noise, or theatrics. He talks about navigating the luxury market as a man in a traditionally female-led industry, the leadership lessons learned from hospitality giants, and how confidence and kindness can (and should) coexist at the highest level. If you've ever wondered how to build a brand that feels as good as it looks—or how to lead without overpowering—this episode is your guide to thoughtful luxury and modern creative leadership.

In this In the Margins episode, we step into a quiet but powerful moment with Michelle Rago, one of the most respected voices in luxury event production. Michelle opens up about how her childhood shaped her ability to stay grounded under pressure—and how that emotional clarity has become a cornerstone of her leadership. She shares why she no longer feels the need to prove herself, what she looks for in creative collaborators, and how true confidence often arrives quietly, without the need for noise or performance. This conversation is a reminder that you don't have to be the loudest in the room to be the most trusted, and that calm, kindness, and presence are still the most underrated superpowers in business. If you've ever felt like you had to work harder to be taken seriously—or questioned your place in high-stakes creative spaces—this episode will meet you right where you are.   Guest Bio: Michelle Rago is the founder of Michelle Rago Destinations, a global event production firm known for curating unforgettable destination weddings and celebrations around the world. Her greatest strength lies in her ability to interpret her clients' desires and translate them into events that are both meticulously planned and effortlessly beautiful. With years of hands-on experience, a refined eye for design, and a mastery of logistics, Michelle has built a reputation for navigating complex destination productions with grace and precision. What truly sets her apart is her curiosity—about people, about place, and about how aesthetics, culture, and hospitality come together to shape meaningful experiences. It's this lens that makes her work not just admired, but remembered. From private estates to faraway coastlines, Michelle creates moments that are intentional, elegant, and deeply rooted in connection.

In this episode, James and Otto sit down with renowned planner and designer, Beth Helmstetter, for a masterclass in emotionally intelligent event design. Known for her deeply intentional, soulfully refined approach to luxury weddings, Beth shares how she's built a brand rooted not just in aesthetics—but in hospitality, heart, and human connection.   From working with ultra-high-net-worth clients to managing teams across multiple ventures (including her gifting company and boutique hotel), Beth reveals how she brings a sense of calm leadership to every space she enters.   She shares her philosophy on true hospitality, why emotional safety matters more than wow-factor, and how planners can lead with softness while still commanding respect.   Beth also discusses The Good Beginning, her charitable registry platform that invites couples to start their marriage with generosity and intention.   If you're a wedding planner, designer, or creative searching for more meaning in your work, this episode is an invitation to rethink what luxury really means—and how to infuse it with presence, purpose, and care.

What does it really take to thrive in the luxury wedding world—not just creatively, but personally? In this episode, we sit down with Chris Jespersen of Storybox Cinema to unpack the risks, identity shifts, and real growth that come with building a creative life in a high-stakes industry. Chris shares the wild story behind one of his earliest career-defining moments (spoiler: it involved a one-way international flight, no passport, and a suitcase full of dreams), how dancing became a metaphor for his approach to business, and why authenticity is still the rarest luxury. Whether you're a photographer, filmmaker, planner, or designer—this conversation will leave you rethinking how you show up, how you serve, and how you grow. If you've ever felt like you're faking it, playing small, or stuck in a creative rut… this one's for you. Subscribe now to The Business of Luxury Weddings Podcast—and get ready to dream a little bigger.

What if success in luxury wasn't about being seen—but about helping others feel seen? In this intimate In the Margins episode, Alicia Fritz—founder of A Day in May Events—pulls back the curtain on what it really means to serve at the highest level. From honoring generational legacy to staying grounded in the presence of extraordinary wealth, Alicia shares how her small-town values built a brand trusted by some of the world's most private families. She reminds us: these moments aren't for us. They're for the families we serve—and the love they're trying to preserve. If you've ever questioned whether kindness and integrity still belong in the luxury space, this is your answer. Guest Bio A native of Traverse City, Michigan, Alicia Fritz is the founder and Principal Designer of A Day in May Events, a nationally recognized event production firm sought after for mastering the art of entertaining. Alicia's appreciation for hospitality is rooted in her company's ethos; to architect milestone celebrations that embody the taste and priorities of her clients, accentuated by a strong sense of place and purpose in every detail. With a mission to preserve the unique history and life experiences of her clients and their families, Alicia and her team have been entrusted as strategic partners for their private, legacy clients for close to two decades.   Since 2007, Alicia has built a dedicated staff of event specialists and creative thinkers who operate with a methodical and intuitive system that prioritizes collaboration with their clients, respectful partnership with their creative teams and an unwavering commitment to a flawless event. Harmonizing an architect's mindset with the imaginative and artistic touch of a great host, Alicia has been recognized as one of the country's top event planners by VOGUE and Martha Stewart Weddings to name a few. From the serene, idyllic coastline of Northern Michigan, to the exquisite landscape of the South of France, and far flung locales likeMustique, Alicia and her team rarely create in the same place twice and welcome the challenge of producing these exceptional moments for beloved clients in unchartered territory.   For more information, head to https://www.adayinmayevents.com/ follow @adayinmayevents on Instagram.    Want a clear and comprehensive roadmap on how to succeed in the luxury wedding market? Check out the Business of Luxury Weddings course. You'll learn the entire business model and thought process - so you can sign consistent 5-figure contracts, build a powerful network of the right people, and travel to iconic destinations. Learn more and join the waitlist at SageJourney.co.

In this episode—our second in a special series on great number twos in the industry—hosts James and Otto sit down with Dawson Mitchell, Director of Operations at Easton Events, the globally respected luxury event firm founded by the legendary Lynn Easton. Dawson shares the now-iconic story of getting fired on her first day—then showing back up the next morning with quiet determination and a plan to become undeniable. Nearly a decade later, she's not just part of Easton Events—she's integral to how it runs, scales, and protects its gold standard. This episode is a rare look inside the operations, philosophy, and expectations that have made Easton Events one of the most trusted names in high-end weddings. Dawson pulls back the curtain on ruthless self-editing, shaping team culture, and how she internalized Easton's voice so completely she could finish Lynn's sentences—and sometimes her emails. For planners, creatives, and leaders alike, this is a masterclass in earning trust, maintaining excellence, and growing inside a vision bigger than yourself.

In this episode, hosts James and Otto sit down with Bryan Rafanelli, founder of Rafanelli Events, the creative force behind some of the most iconic celebrations in the world—including Chelsea Clinton's wedding and major White House events. But Bryan's story doesn't start with celebrity clients and presidential galas—it starts with frat parties, hand-drawn flyers, and a deep love for storytelling through design. Bryan shares how he built an industry-defining brand by focusing on relationships, risk-taking, and original creative thinking. From his "Rafanelli Rules" to his obsession with spatial scale, authenticity, and emotional connection, he opens up about the power of designing moments that feel deeply personal. Whether you're a planner, designer, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation is a masterclass in longevity, leadership, and standing out in a world of trends. Bryan doesn't just chase beautiful—he chases the extraordinary. 🎧 Hit play, and don't be surprised if you leave rethinking your entire approach to creativity.

Most wedding professionals think they're selling a brand. They're wrong. Clients don't buy logos, color palettes, or fancy websites—they buy trust. And no one understands that better than Natalie Denyse, founder of In Good Company PR. In this episode, Natalie breaks down why most businesses struggle with branding (hint: it's not about aesthetics), how to build a brand that actually lasts, and why high-end clients are making decisions differently than ever before. She also dives into the biggest marketing mistakes creatives make, how to break free from the Instagram hamster wheel, and why every business owner needs to sit down and redefine their mission at least once a year. Whether you're a photographer, planner, or creative entrepreneur, this episode will shift the way you think about branding, marketing, and business longevity.

Weddings aren't about perfect pictures—they're about the in-between moments, the blurry edges, the unscripted, beautiful chaos. And no one captures that better than Preston Utley, a photojournalist-turned-wedding photographer who sees beyond the surface. In this episode, Preston takes us deep into his philosophy of shooting from the gut, anticipating emotion, and embracing imperfection. We talk about his early days covering ski races and crime scenes at the Vail Daily, why he left news photography for weddings, and how his daily meditation practice makes him the calmest person in the room. He shares why one honest frame can say more than 1,000 perfect images, the myth of timeless wedding photography, and how the best moments aren't found—they're felt. If you've ever wondered what makes a truly impactful photograph, this episode will change the way you shoot forever.

In this episode, we sit down with Mollie & Sunna, the powerhouse duo behind Bash Please, one of the most forward-thinking event planning and design firms in the industry. With backgrounds in luxury hospitality, private catering, and large-scale event production, they've built a firm known for its intentionality, authenticity, and ability to create multi-day experiences that leave a lasting impact. They dive into why experience matters in event planning, how they've strategically navigated both weddings and corporate events, and what it truly takes to stand out in an industry saturated with trends and Instagram-driven expectations. From why they prioritize hiring local vendors in destination events to their perspective on elevating corporate retreats beyond the boardroom, this conversation is packed with wisdom for planners, photographers, and creatives alike. If you're looking to level up your business, refine your brand, and break free from the noise, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, we sit down with John Dolan, the legendary wedding photographer who has spent decades redefining what it means to capture life's most intimate moments. Known for his philosophy of "The Perfect Imperfect," John shares how he approaches weddings with empathy, artistry, and a deep respect for authenticity. From his early days in the darkroom to photographing iconic events, including high-profile weddings at the White House, John reveals the mindset and method behind his minimalist goal of delivering just 15 exceptional images to each client. He dives into the emotional layers of weddings, his relationships with planners, and why he believes great photography should feel honest and timeless. Whether you're a wedding professional, photographer, or creative entrepreneur, John's unique perspective on storytelling and his philosophy of "less is more" will leave you inspired to find depth and meaning in your own work.

In this episode, we welcome Katherine Gray, Senior Event Producer at Michelle Rago Destinations, a globally renowned luxury wedding planning firm. Katherine shares her incredible journey from cold-calling her way into the industry to becoming the trusted right hand of Michelle Rago. With a background in theater and a knack for anticipation, Katherine dives into what it takes to succeed at the highest level of event planning. She discusses the importance of collaboration, why confidence and simplicity are key markers of professionalism, and how humor keeps teams grounded during high-stakes events. Katherine also provides actionable insights for photographers, videographers, and planners on becoming better collaborative partners. Whether you're a creative, a planner, or a luxury wedding enthusiast, Katherine's approach to solving problems, building trust, and maintaining authenticity will leave you inspired to elevate your own work.

In this episode, we're joined by Bianca Hall and Erica Vanco, the powerhouse duo behind Estera Events, a luxury wedding planning and design firm based in Chicago. Starting as interns and eventually purchasing the business in 2019, Bianca and Erica share their incredible journey of transforming Estera into a global brand known for stunning destination weddings and exceptional client experiences. They discuss how they navigated the challenges of taking ownership right before the pandemic and how this "trial by fire" shaped their approach to resilience and innovation. Tune in to learn how they craft highly personalized vendor teams, balance authenticity with ambition, and stay inspired by their clients and travels. With insights on their transition to a percentage-based pricing model and their passion for breaking industry norms, this conversation is packed with inspiration for wedding professionals and creative entrepreneurs alike.

In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Gainey, the visionary behind Lemiga Events, a luxury event design and planning company based in Atlanta. Michelle opens up about her inspiring journey of breaking racial barriers in the wedding industry while staying true to her authentic self. She shares how she overcame societal assumptions as a Black woman in the luxury market, transforming those challenges into opportunities to create meaningful and breathtaking events. With 20 years of experience, Michelle reveals how her focus on storytelling, collaboration, and authenticity has set her apart and earned her the trust of high-profile clients. She also discusses the importance of embracing your uniqueness, diversifying your offerings, and designing with purpose. Whether you're a wedding professional, creative entrepreneur, or simply seeking inspiration, Michelle's story is a testament to the power of resilience and authenticity in achieving extraordinary success.

In this episode, we welcome Jose Villa, arguably the most influential wedding photographers of our time. With over 20 years in the industry, Jose's journey has been about more than just taking photos—it's been about building a legacy. From his early days charging $400 for weddings to now capturing million-dollar events around the globe, Jose opens up about the power of client relationships, mastering the art of film in a digital age, and the discipline it takes to succeed in an industry fueled by creativity and pressure. Hear how he navigates the expectations of high-profile clients, the role of humility and discipline in his career, and why he believes in lifting others within the industry. This conversation is a must-listen for photographers and creatives looking to make their mark with integrity and passion.

In this episode, we sit down with Kelsey Connely, owner and creative director of Downey Street Events, a premier wedding planning firm. Kelsey shares her fascinating journey from corporate HR to the world of luxury weddings and how she successfully took over an established event planning business. She dives into the importance of vendor relationships and how these partnerships are the backbone of her firm's success. Kelsey also discusses the creative vision she brings to each event, shaping a unique brand aesthetic that attracts high-end clients. Wedding professionals will find her insights on leadership, team dynamics, and maintaining long-term sustainability invaluable. Whether you're a planner, photographer, or videographer, Kelsey's story offers a wealth of inspiration on how to excel in the luxury wedding industry.

In this episode of the Business of Luxury Weddings, we sit down with Melissa Sullivan, founder of Studio Sully, a renowned event design and production firm based in Los Angeles and New York. Melissa shares her unique journey from assistant planner to headlining her own firm—right as the pandemic hit. Tune in to hear how Melissa navigated the challenges of launching a business during unprecedented times, built invaluable vendor relationships, and found her creative voice. For wedding pros looking to make their mark, Melissa's insights on authenticity, design inspiration from fashion, and the importance of a strong support system are gold. Get ready to be inspired by Melissa's story and learn how she turned obstacles into opportunities.

In this captivating episode of The Business of Luxury Weddings, we're honored to be joined by the renowned Colin Cowie, an iconic figure in the world of luxury events. With nearly 40 years of experience, Colin shares his fascinating journey from his humble beginnings with just $400 and a dream to becoming the go-to planner for Hollywood's elite. He opens up about the evolving landscape of the event industry, offering invaluable insights into navigating its cyclical nature while keeping elegance and style at the forefront. Colin also dives deep into the power of creating a rich company culture, proactive customer service, and the importance of personalization in elevating client experiences. From tales of designing stunning events to sharing the wisdom of failure as a stepping stone to success, Colin's stories will inspire both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. Whether you're in the wedding industry or just passionate about luxury, this episode is brimming with actionable advice and timeless principles.