Advertise on podcast: The Business of Luxury Weddings

What if the most successful version of your business is simply the most honest version of you? Akeshi Akinseye, founder and CEO of Kesh Events and a globally recognized wedding planner and designer, joins James and Otto for a conversation about building a career on truth instead of polish. Raised in Nigeria in a family of hosts, Akeshi traces how her mother shaped the way she creates, and why she believes your origin is your greatest differentiator. She gets honest about stepping out from behind her brand to stand in front of it, designing celebrations that move people through all five senses, and the emotional luxury philosophy at the heart of her work. Along the way she shares the two lessons that changed everything: be willing to fail, and stop trying to be everything to everyone. She also opens up about her new book, The Art of Celebrating, and the surprising way AI is now helping her book clients. Part masterclass on intentional design, part permission to simply be yourself.

What does it take to stay at the top for thirty years? Melina Glavas and Stewart Mann lead event sales at The Little Nell, Aspen's only five-star, five-diamond hotel, where weddings happen at eleven thousand feet and Forbes has awarded five stars every year since 1996. In this conversation they join James and Otto to talk about the thing that actually drives it all: relationships. Melina, who has been at the Nell for twenty years, and Stewart, who joined recently and plans never to leave, get honest about how they build partnerships that last, why they believe everyone succeeds or fails together, and how a new planner or photographer can genuinely break into a place like this. Along the way they share the culture behind three decades of five-star service, the story of one of the best wine programs in the world, and what it really takes to pull off a wedding on top of a mountain. Part masterclass, part love letter to Aspen.

What happens when you lose the legal right to use your own name? Wedding dress designer Hayley Paige spent nearly five years, and every dollar she had ever earned, fighting to win back her name and her right to design. In this conversation she joins James and Otto to trace the whole arc: the identity crisis of asking "who am I if I'm not a designer?", the businesses she built in the wilderness years, and the surreal comeback of seeing one of her dresses on a real bride during the Super Bowl halftime show. It's an unusually honest look at the machinery behind the beauty. Hayley shares how creatives can protect their work before it's out in the world, why a strong business structure frees your creativity rather than dilutes it, and how to build a brand on trust that can survive almost anything. For any designer, photographer, or small business owner, it's part cautionary tale, part permission slip to begin again.

In this episode, James sits down with writer and contributing editor Shelby Wax for a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how wedding editorial really works—and what it actually takes to get published. Shelby shares how her path through Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides, and now freelance work shaped her perspective on storytelling, curation, and taste. Together, they unpack what most photographers and planners misunderstand about editorial, why "beautiful" isn't always enough, and how timing, brand alignment, and narrative all play a role in what gets selected. They also dive into the realities behind submissions—why great weddings get passed on, how SEO and internal goals shape decisions, and what editors are really looking for when they open a gallery. If you've ever felt confused or frustrated by the editorial process—or wondered how to get your work published—this conversation will reframe it completely and give you a clearer path forward.

Some planners execute a vision. Natalie Kiran Laskowski and Chelsea Leigh Wenner of Kiran + Leigh are the vision. In this episode of The Business of Luxury Weddings, the co-founders of one of the most quietly compelling destination wedding studios in the country sit down with hosts James Christianson and Otto to talk about what it actually takes to build something with taste — and keep it that way. How they left a firm, launched a brand during a pandemic, and decided early on that they would never compromise on quality, creativity, or each other. They talk vendor relationships, editorial design, the guest experience as the true measure of luxury, and the kind of partnership that only works when the friendship comes first. No formulas. No repeats. Just two women who built exactly what they set out to build.

In this episode, James and Otto sit down with the creative minds behind Samkoma—a collective that's redefining what it means to build a brand in the luxury event world. From their roots in nightlife and cultural production to curating experiences for global fashion houses and elite weddings, Samkoma brings an entirely different energy to the table. Josiah and Otto open up about the intentionality behind every decision—the lighting, the sound, the scent, the pacing—and how those details create more than a mood… they create memory. You'll hear what makes a brand feel unforgettable, why culture is your most valuable currency, and how collaboration is the new competitive edge. If you're a creative, planner, or brand-builder looking to stand out without selling out, this conversation will challenge the way you think about value, vision, and what it takes to move people—not just impress them.

In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Kimberley Curtin, Senior Event Producer at JZ Events, for a rare and generous conversation about what it really takes to operate at the highest level of luxury event planning. As the right hand to Jennifer Zabinski—one of the most sought-after planners in the world—Kimberley brings an extraordinary combination of calm precision, deep intuition, and flawless execution to every wedding she touches.   They talk about the quiet power of being a number two, how to lead from behind without needing credit, and why trust is the most valuable currency in this business. From 4 a.m. vendor calls to anticipating needs before they're spoken, Kimberley shares the mindset that allows her to show up with confidence, excellence, and ease—no matter the pressure.   If you've ever wondered what true behind-the-scenes leadership looks like in this industry, this one's a masterclass.

In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Kayley Watson—Account Director of Celebrations at Belmond—for a journey through the soul of luxury hospitality. With her signature blend of warmth, wit, and unshakable professionalism, Kayley pulls back the curtain on what truly sets Belmond apart: curated experiences rooted in place, culture, and human connection. From designing unforgettable moments across Belmond's legendary global portfolio to nurturing the kind of planner partnerships that last a lifetime, Kayley shares what it means to lead with generosity, curiosity, and joy. This isn't a conversation about logistics—it's about legacy. It's about turning every celebration into a love letter to a destination. If you're a planner, creative, or hotelier who believes in the magic of service done well, this episode will leave you inspired (and probably craving an Italian rail journey).

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.