The ‘WOW’ Factor: Asia’s TOP, Award Winning Planners reveal the secret to WOW Weddings!

by  Kanika Mehta Weddings | July 8, 2015 | News

WOW Awards Asia Rohit Bal Bhavnesh Sawnhey

Although weddings are made up of a variety of elements that contribute equally to its success, sometimes it is that one element that really elevates the entire experience to a whole new level. Technology, international artists, exotic offbeat destinations, larger than life sets, new age decor, unique detailing in design among innumerable other factors can be the answer.

Some of Asia’s foremost wedding planners and GOLD Award winners in the Experiential Celebrations segment at WOW Awards Asia 2015, share with us that ONE element which adds the 'WOW' factor to any wedding celebration/social/private event.

EUPHORIC ENTERTAINMENT

Aditya Motwane, Director, Motwane Entertainment and Weddings

When you look at the event flow of any wedding celebration, you find a standard template emerging.

After a certain point, all the elements – F&B, décor, hospitality, ground transportation etc. reach a plateau.

That’s where the magic of (great) Entertainment design starts to take over.

It is completely sensory and always bespoke by nature. Moreover, it has the power to sustain and raise to new heights - the ‘celebratory’ experience that each guest soaks in and gives back in the moment. 

Entertainment has the power to make you euphoric.  And this euphoria should define the wonderful’ after-taste you take away from every wedding!

Team MEW won the GOLD Award for BEST USE OF EXPERIENTIAL / UNCONVENTIONAL / NON-TRADITIONAL VENUE FOR A SOCIAL/WEDDING EVENT at WOW Awards Asia 2015

BLENDING THE EXPERIENCE WITH THE ENVIRONMENT

Neelabh Kapoor, Director, Experiential Weddings by Studio Neelabh

 FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION. An event turns 'WOW' when it is designed and planned in accordance with the environment and the two are blended together beautifully with no aspect jarring out as a result of being intertwined thematically.For instance, the ambience of an event taking place in a French Chateaux must exude a certain vibe that resonates with the venue and destination and accentuates its natural setting. 

Similarly, one at a majestic palace in Rajasthan must feature elements that complement the royal characteristics of the environment and one in Goa or Maldives must offer elements that are in tandem with the ambience of a beach.

The overall experience can create the ‘WOW’ factor, not any stand-alone element. I believe in creating service based experiences not setups or entertainment; because that, is what a guest takes back home as a memory. That, is what truly makes for a ‘WOW’ celebration.

Experiential Weddings by Studio Neelabh won the GOLD Award for BEST ENTERTAINMENT DESIGN FOR A PRE-WEDDING EVENT at WOW Awards Asia 2015

THE SURPRISE ELEMENT

Rohit Bal, Director, Rohit Bal Luxury Weddings

I feel it is that surprise element which truly adds the ‘WOW’ factor to a celebration. 

A component which is not obtrusive yet makes for the center point of the experience.

It could be a stunning gigantic floral installation or an exquisite ginormous chandelier or any such creation which although being a part of the overall décor, elevates the entire experience to a whole new level.

It is that feeling which one gets when he/she enters a museum or an art gallery. That, if recreated makes the experience truly 'WOW'.

Team RBLW won the GOLD Award for BEST DÉCOR/AMBIENT DESIGN AT A WEDDING EVENT at WOW Awards Asia 2015

DETAILING IN DESIGN

Bhavnesh Sawhney, Director, Wedniksha

While international artists and unique usage of technology can make one say WOW instantly.

We believe that the detailing in design is that evergreen element that will forever add the 'WOW' quotient in any given wedding.

Whatever the budget may be, and however simplistic the décor may be, the intricacies of any given design make the entire event come alive. 

Each and every element, from table linen overlays and underlays to the carving and colours of props used in the décor speak for itself.

We give due importance to this element, and make sure that every detail is paid heed to equally, making it a truly 'WOW' experience.

Wedniksha won 2 GOLD Awards for BEST ENTERTAINMENT DESIGN FOR A WEDDING EVENT and BEST USE/INTEGRATION OF DESTINATION FOR A SOCIAL/WEDDING EVENT at WOW Awards Asia 2015

AN EMOTIONAL CONNECTION

Elie Berchan, Director, Elie Berchan Wedding and Events Creation

It is a science and not anyone can create it.It is how you make people, together with the bride and groom get interconnected with wedding decor and ambiance.

If missed, the wedding would only be reduced to only a beautiful setup.

The most important component at a wedding is the Emotional Connection, building momentum, creating an endlessly enchanting experience, where the invitees blend with the surroundings, decor and families. 

This creates this magical experience, second to none.
Many of us have attended beautiful weddings which were unfortunatly just limited to decor. Passmidnight, the dance floor was deserted.
 

Elie Berchan Wedding & Events Creation won the GOLD Award for BEST DÉCOR/AMBIENT DESIGN AT A WEDDING EVENT at WOW Awards Asia 2015.

CREATIVITY IN ENTERTAINMENT & MUSIC

Kainaz Sethna, Director, Seven Steps Weddings

The one thing that truly always 'WOW's guests and creates a lasting impression is the impact of creativity in specialy curated entertainment performances at the celebration. 

While a 'big name' creates an impression instantly, the 'WOW' factor that can be created through a series of custom designed and choreographed performances for each phase of the wedding and reception, using a curated mix of dance forms, technology and music, is what will stay with the family and the guests, always. 
 

Seven Steps Weddings won the GOLD Award for BEST ENTERTAINMENT DESIGN FOR A WEDDING EVENT at WOW Awards Asia 2015.