Piecing together a wedding
Priyal Mahtta
Changing times have also witnessed a change in how weddings are planned. Taking over the stress of haggling with the tentwallas and halwais, wedding planners are now making weddings a well-planned and glamorous affair, easing things for hosts.
With greater innovation in customising events, young planners have revolutionised the industry not only for its aspirants, but also for their indulgent clientele. Witnessing an average annual growth rate of 25 to 30 per cent in the past year with an average Indian spending over one-fifth of their life's earnings on these, wedding planning is all set to witness an exponential growth in the coming years.
Not only is it growing individually, but several ancillary segments like gold and diamond, decor material, fabrics and garments and artificial jewellery have also recorded growth. With the rising demand for expertise, many institutes have introduced event management courses with structured curricula at various levels to equip the aspirants with the requisite skills.
Here's what some young professionals of the region have to say about their journey and vision.
Sahil Juneja, Upper Crust Events, Chandigarh
Inspiration: I too was inspired by the movie Band Baaja Baraat. I love the process of designing and executing a wedding event. I love the rush of working with other artistes to create the most special event for someone.
Challenges and solutions: Often believed to be a smooth affair, the job becomes challenging as all clients demand uniqueness for their events. Creatively identifying every client's niche and delivering it through the right selling methods are challenges that my team and I deal with everyday.
Future plans: It's a thrill meeting new clients and listening to new requirements and working on newer designing and conceptualisations. The unveiling is what I wait for in all my events. I want my company to be a brand that every couple looks forward to hiring for their D-day.
A word of advice: Get into this business only if you're willing to give it your all. Be patient with the frazzled brides and grooms. Customise their event with your own twist.
Aanchal and Nitin Vij, Espousal Planners, Chandigarh
Inspiration: Simplifying togetherness is the idea that has driven us all the way. Moreover, movies like Bride Wars, The Wedding Planners and Band Baja Baraat have inspired our team to make people happiest on their special day.
Challenges and solutions: Delivering the best in fixed budgets is one. We also need to know about different ceremonies in different religions. Last-minute demands, technical glitches, etc. become everyday challenges for us. We keep ourselves ready with back up options and sound communication to keep the event smooth.
High points: Getting appreciation for the work done and also getting referred by our own clients for our work gives us a new high.
Future plans: Widening our horizons, achieving excellence and making a mark in the industry through meticulous planning, designing and conceptualisation for the clients.
A word of advice: Planning and conceptualising is a constant part of this profession. One cannot assume it to be a regular 9 to 5 job. It requires dedication.
Sana Jhamb, Events and PR Professional, New Delhi
Inspiration: The versatility of the field inspired me and attracted me to the creative outlet. Hailing from a design background, wedding decor always lured me.
Challenges and solutions: As there are many things going on simultaneously during an event, any crisis can be expected. I gradually learnt that being patient and managing time well are the two most essential solutions to these challenges.
High point: Organising the wedding of Micromax CEO Rahul Sharma and Bollywood actress Asin.
Future plans: I would rather want to gain as much experience as I can while in this industry so as to polish my skills to my greatest potential.
A word of advice: It's an amazing profession. If you are really passionate about events, then you are all set to go!
Manya Madan, The Wedding Tree, Chandigarh
Inspiration: I love the idea of weddings as they offer a chance to meet new people every day, and create everlasting memories for them.
Challenges and solutions: The biggest challenge is keeping things smooth. You cannot afford to miss out or mismanage even the smallest of details. Challenges range right from the planning of the wedding to vendor management, etc. The only way to overcome these challenges is perseverance and prior planning of all the details for the event.
High points: It was when The Wedding Tree got featured in "WedMeGood". We have also planned some great destination weddings for some renowned faces of the Tricity.
Future plans: Focus on customisation and bringing more uniqueness in our work. Expanding the 'destination wedding' trend tops the list.
A word of advice: Wedding planning is purely about passion and creativity. There are no marked weekends, no fixed timings and an enormous amount of work pressure. However, if you love connecting with new people, have good time management and negotiation skills, this profession is just for you.
Study here
- Pearl Academy, New Delhi offers Events and PR Course for Bachelors degree holders
- The Wedding Academy, Mumbai: Six-month diploma course
- College of Events and Media, Pune: Courses for Masters/Bachelors Degree holders.
- Royale Institution, Puducherry offers online courses
