I recently had the opportunity to speak at a top wedding industry conference in Venice, Italy. I want to share some of the ideas that came from Engage!17: Venice that are just fantastic!

So today we’re doing things a little differently since this is an event I actually had the pleasure of attending – as a guest!

Engage!17 is the creme de la creme of the global wedding industry. I was honored when they asked me to share my expertise as a French wedding planner to my peers.

 Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice was the host hotel where the event kicked off. This three day experience wasn’t just about parties and education. Part of what we do on location is get out and see the city so that we can share our favorites with you.

                        

Engage is all about education and inspiration, especially during the conference portion of the event.

The wedding industry comes together to share their innovations from around the world to elevate our community.

    

My session was inspired by my experiences producing weddings in France with brides and grooms for different cultures.

My clients are from countries all around the world. Many of my clients also come from different backgrounds, so we want to honor both and take that into account. Their traditions are incredibly important to me and to their wedding decisions. So I shared experiences working with Arabic, Chinese, Jewish and other couples who have incredible traditions we weave into the wedding day.

What matters most to the couple is so important to highlight. That cultural significance shines through in their event details, something Engage!17 did wonderfully when showcasing the beauty of Venice.

From the showmanship of the entertainment (like these violinists) to the VIP experiences at famous artisan galleries, there was magic all around.

I spent one evening watching the craftsmen at Murano Glass create art out of glass. Even though I was at a wedding industry conference, these are the types of memories we help to create for our clients too. I believe curating unique experiences around the wedding events enhance the guest experience tenfold.

Not only do we get to engage with other wedding experts at this event, we also get to celebrate. The drama of the Venetian stage was the inspiration for the opening night party. The design work by Vincenzo Dascanio was so cutting-edge and experiential. I can’t wait to work with their team!

These giant red feathers installed above the lounge furniture became a statement piece at the entrance to the palazzo. Making an impression when guests enter the party space is something key to our design process too. And Vincenzo gave us plenty of design inspiration here!

At this wedding industry conference the entertainment became part of the decor.

Each room had performers staged throughout. I like to tell our clients that we create a theatrical experience at their wedding. The Engage Conference did a phenomenal job of doing just that!

This event was such an inspiration for me. I’m honored to have been a part. Check back with us soon, I’ll also be sharing the gala from Engage:17 with a celestial-style celebration. Engage!17: Venice Event Team: Photography: Betsi Ewing Studio + John Cain Photography | Hosts: Engage Summits | Location: Palazzo Pisani Moretta | Video: Elysium Productions | Concept, design & decor: VINCENZO DASCANIO | Entertainment & Artistic Direction: Gabriele Rizzi & Nu Art Events | Planning: Venice First – bespoke events & luxury travel + Belmond Hotel Cipriani | Lighting & Sound: Tecnoluci | Sparkling wine: Ferraritrento | Catering: La Dogaressa Catering | Speciality Desserts: #racca | Event Furniture & Linen: Oltre il giardino Venezia | Private Water Taxis: Belmond Hotel Cipriani