Crafting Unforgettable Moments: Reema Thakkar Tiwari on the Art of Event Planning
by Komal Darji Weddings | October 25, 2024 | Interview
Reema Thakkar Tiwari
Reema Thakkar Tiwari is the driving force behind Spize Weddings and Events, one of Chennai's most sought-after wedding planning and event companies. Starting her journey in 2013, Reema has grown her business by creating stunning, personalized events not just in India, but internationally. Her ability to bring her clients' dreams to life has earned her a reputation as a leader in the industry, and she recently expanded to the Middle East with a new office in Dubai. Known for her attention to detail and passion for emotion-driven events, Reema is dedicated to making every occasion unforgettable.
In an interview with EVENTFAQS Media, Reema Tiwari shares insights into her journey in the wedding industry, the challenges she's overcome, and how she balances creativity with budget and timelines. She explains her process for understanding clients' needs to create personalized events while consistently delivering sophistication and exclusivity.
What initially drew you to the wedding and event industry, and how have your experiences influenced your approach to creating distinctive, high-quality events?
I always had an inclination for wedding & event planning. When I moved to Chennai in 2012, I realized that there was a lot of opportunity and demand for planning, however there were hardly any players who offered 360 degree planning solutions.
My experiences have taught me the importance of understanding the customer’s thought process and their needs. I've learned to prioritize creativity and attention to detail, ensuring that each event has a unique theme and cohesive execution. Collaboration with talented vendors and leveraging feedback for continuous improvement have also been key in crafting memorable experiences.
Every industry has its share of challenges. Can you share a significant hurdle you’ve faced in your career and the key lesson you took away from overcoming it?
Recently we organised a high profile uber luxurious wedding. Due to some reasons, the timeline for planning & execution of the event was 20 days ! It was a huge responsibility on me & my brand to deliver a seamless large-scale event with multiple stakeholders and tight timelines. We took up the challenge and made sure the wedding was one of its kind and transformed bride & groom’s family dream into reality . The key lesson I learned was the importance of prioritization and quick decision-making. I focused on essential elements first, such as securing the venue and key vendors, and streamlined communication with all parties involved. This experience taught me the value of flexibility and creativity under pressure, demonstrating that with clear priorities and efficient teamwork, a beautiful event can still come together in a short timeframe.
Balancing creative ideas with practical constraints is crucial in event planning. How do you approach ensuring that your vision aligns with the realities of budget, timelines, and client expectations?
I start by setting clear expectations with clients from the beginning, discussing their vision alongside budget and timelines. This helps identify priorities and areas where we can be creative within constraints. I also explore innovative solutions that can achieve the desired look without overspending, and I regularly check in throughout the planning process to ensure alignment and adjust as needed. This collaborative approach keeps everyone on the same page while allowing creativity to flourish.
Each client has unique tastes and expectations. What process do you follow to deeply understand your clients’ needs and translate that into an event that feels truly personal and reflective of their vision?
I begin with a detailed consultation to discuss the client's vision, preferences, and any specific themes they have in mind. I ask open-ended questions to uncover their values and priorities. Creating mood boards and sharing design concepts helps visualize ideas together. Regular check-ins throughout the planning process ensure their feedback is integrated, resulting in an event that feels personal and truly reflective of their style. This collaborative approach fosters trust and ensures the final outcome aligns with their expectations.
What do you think sets luxury events apart from more traditional ones, and how do you maintain a consistent level of sophistication and exclusivity in the execution of such events?
A luxury event signifies elegance and grandeur. It involves larger budgets and tons of creativity. To maintain sophistication and exclusivity, I focus on creating bespoke elements tailored to the client’s preferences, from unique venues to customized decor and curated experiences. Integrating technology into luxury events can elevate the overall experience and enhance sophistication. Here are some ways technology plays a role:
1. Virtual Reality (VR) Experiences: Offering immersive VR experiences can transport guests to different settings or showcase products in an engaging way.
2. Interactive Guest Engagement: Utilizing apps for personalized itineraries, real-time updates, or interactive features like live polls and Q&A sessions.
3. High-Quality Audio-Visuals: Investing in top-notch sound and lighting systems to create a captivating atmosphere and enhance presentations or performances.
4. Social Media Integration: Curating branded hashtags and providing live feeds or photo booths to encourage guests to share their experiences online.
5. Event Management Software: Streamlining planning processes, guest lists, RSVP management for seamless execution & personalised guest hospitality.
6. Smart Venue Solutions: Leveraging smart technologies for lighting control elevates the ambiance of the event and security to create a comfortable and secure environment.
In an interview with EVENTFAQS Media, Reema Tiwari discusses her journey in the wedding industry and how she balances creativity with budget and timelines to deliver personalized, sophisticated events