Today, we’re more than excited to share the interview of the talented wedding planner Sonal J. Shah. Sonal J. Shah has been known for her dedication on her work and her perfectionism, as well as the successful weddings she planned all these years. She started her wedding career 15 years ago and from then, she has planned over 1,200 weddings perfectly! Her aim is to make each wedding unique and unforgettable and her clients happy. Her favourite motto “It’s all in the details”, describes exactly the attention, passion and creativity that she puts in her work. We decided to sit down with this incredible lady and see what inspires that spark!
How did you get into wedding planning?
I wanted to mix my knowledge of hotels and the South Asian Market and luxury weddings. I knew I had to start my own company.
What do brides need to keep in mind for their wedding day?
It is sincerely once in a lifetime. You can always make more money, but you can never get that weekend back.
Tell us about a wedding trend you are excited about at the moment?
Monogramed napkins, bigger decor, extra-large cakes.
What’s is the motto you live by professionally?
You can always make more money, but this weekend is once in a lifetime. Throw the best party you can every throw.
What do you still want to achieve professionally?
I want to write a second book
Who has influenced you the most in your career?
I love Preston Bailey, Jeannie Fortunato at Atlas Floral, Azizan Ali at Design House Decor. These folks are truly visionaries. I don’t know how they do it, but they go above and beyond and reach to create the most magical weddings.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don’t try so hard to please others. They are never pleased. Speak you mind. Free your mind and the rest will follow (as Envogue said).
What book are you reading at the moment?
Next Level Basic: The Definitive Basic Bitch Handbook by Stassi Schroeder
Which social media platform do you prefer?
Instagram
What is the best advice you received about social media?
Do it and do it often. Let the world see you. The good, the bad and the ugly.
What is the greatest lesson you have learned in your job?
Put your foot down. You are the expert in your field. I may not know how to do x, y, or z, but I know wedding planning!
Who inspires you?
Lady Gaga
One moment, one person or project that marked your career?
E! Entertainment and putting me on the show “Whose Wedding Is It Anyways”. Loreene was the casting agents’ name. She told me to be myself as I was already a Star! I could not believe how much faith she had in me.
Complete the phrase: -I can’t work without my…..
Laptop and music
If you weren’t a wedding planner you would be …
Working at a luxury hotel planning weddings
Are there any trends that you especially love?
Monogramed everything, big cakes and decor which leaves guests gasping!
Which is the personal touch that IS ALWAYS present at weddings you design and plan?
Attention to detail, menu cards, and of course our signature Ferragamo Headbands!
What’s the most spectacular wedding you have ever put together?
This January, The Emerald City Wedding at The iconic Plaza Hotel. It was one of our proudest moments. Teamwork to the max!
What has been your favourite celebrity wedding?
Turks and Caicos for Melanie Chandra.
Any exciting new projects you are planning in the near future?
Our New office in Europe. Location is undisclosed.
