How did you get your start in the wedding industry?
Back in my university years, about a decade ago, I used to design wedding favors and small accessories. That’s how I supported myself through school and covered my expenses. As time went on, my couples began requesting more: henna nights, engagement parties, and private events. Eventually, I found myself completely immersed in the world of wedding planning. In many ways, it was my couples’ evolving needs that naturally led me into the wedding industry.
How long have you been working in the field?
I’ve been working in the event planning industry for 10 years.
What does a typical wedding week or wedding day look like for you?
There’s no such thing as a “typical” wedding week for me, every time feels as exciting as the very first. I pour myself into every detail, making sure it’s as special as possible. Sometimes I barely eat or sleep because my focus is entirely on the design. I’m constantly thinking of what I can add, create, or improve. With each wedding, my excitement and joy only grow.
Can you walk us through your creative process when planning a wedding?
When I meet a couple, I begin by observing and listening, learning about their style, lifestyle, favorite colors, adventures, careers, and daily life. From there, I design something completely unique to them, guided by imagination and creativity. Every concept is 100% bespoke and never repeated, a promise clearly stated in our contracts and deeply valued by my clients. Nothing is revealed until the wedding day.
I use AI and the latest technology extensively, working on architectural and engineering details, from ceiling designs to menu cards, and from complete transformations to fine interior styling. Every detail is created exclusively for that couple, resulting in an unforgettable night every single time.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
My favorite moment is when the bride and groom see the space for the first time. Their surprise and pure happiness make every hour of preparation worth it. It’s indescribable, the moment I always think, “Yes, this was worth every bit of effort.”
What do you think has contributed most to your success?
The biggest factor in my success is my ability to rise stronger every time I fall. I had a difficult childhood with both emotional and financial challenges. When you’re striving for success, setbacks can leave you feeling alone, even if you’re surrounded by people. I never gave up, my determination and persistence brought me to where I am today.
Wedding planning can be all-consuming, how do you maintain balance in your personal life?
I’ll admit, I don’t maintain a perfect work-life balance, and those close to me often point it out. My work takes up about 80% of my life, leaving only 20% for social life and relationships. It’s not ideal, but my work is my greatest passion and joy. Even in sadness, it’s what I hold onto the most.
What have been some of your biggest career highlights so far?
The pandemic was my biggest turning point. I lost my home, car, workplace, employees, and personal relationships. I still remember sitting outside my shop after handing over the keys, wondering, “What now?” Rebuilding from zero took almost three years, but it taught me the most important lesson of my career: the only person who can truly help you is yourself.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to follow in your footsteps?
Be both mentally and physically strong. Negativity and challenges will always come, be prepared. This work is not just excitement and fun; it requires consistency, growth, and originality. Never follow others blindly. Personally, I don’t follow anyone from my country to keep my mind clear of influence. Inspiration is fine, copying is not.
Have you had any mentors or inspiring figures who shaped your journey?
Yes, I’ve been inspired by weddings held in Lebanon and by some of the planners there. It’s a huge industry, and the leading names in it have influenced me greatly.
What’s the most eccentric or unexpected request you’ve received from a bride or couple?
One of my couples, one a jockey — wanted to enter their ceremony on horseback and exchange vows while riding, right in the middle of a historic venue in Istanbul. I was secretly thrilled at the idea, but since the venue was a protected heritage site, permission was denied. It’s still one of the most unusual requests I’ve received.
Is there one moment during weddings that always gets you emotional or excited?
The moment that moves me most is right after the couple says “yes”, the music swells, they kiss, and there’s a rush of emotion. It’s joyful but also bittersweet, knowing our journey together is ending. The planning process is so intense and emotional that I often find myself tearing up after the ceremony.
Which famous wedding in history would you have loved to be involved in, and why?
I would have loved to be part of the royal wedding at the Opera Garnier in Paris, the wedding of the year. I followed every post, every detail, every moment of the decor and schedule. The refined, elegant atmosphere inspired me so much that I later created a wedding concept in Istanbul based on it — a minimal yet magical version I called Opera Garnier Paris.
What’s a common misconception people have about wedding planners?
Many believe our job is simply bringing ready-made products to a wedding. They don’t see the planning, design work, sketches, engineering, and architectural elements involved. Only once they experience the process do they realize how much work truly goes into creating a wedding.
Are there any current trends you’re loving, or avoiding?
I’m most drawn to weddings that embrace technology, mapping shows, kinetic installations, LED tunnel entrances, metallic decor, and wall coverings instead of traditional flowers. I avoid overly conventional concepts that have been done too often, unless they come from someone I truly admire.
Would you say you have a signature style or approach that couples seek you out for?
Absolutely. My work is entirely bespoke, unique to each couple and never repeated. This originality, combined with a deep reflection of who my clients are, is what sets me apart.