Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Vidhi Kshatriya. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Vidhi, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So, let’s start with trends – what are some of the largest or more impactful trends you are seeing in the industry?

The wedding and event planning industry is always evolving, with trends shaped by cultural shifts, technological advancements, and client expectations. One of the most significant trends I’ve observed recently is the emphasis on personalization and experiential design. Couples are no longer satisfied with a “cookie-cutter” wedding; they want every detail to reflect their unique story, values, and personalities. This trend is both exciting and challenging for planners, as it pushes us to think beyond traditional templates and create moments that truly resonate with our clients and their guests.

Trend Through a Story: Personalized Experiences in Action
One of the most vivid examples of this trend in action comes from a wedding I recently planned for a couple, Nirali and Amish, who were new to Southern California. They wanted a wedding that blended South Asian cultural traditions with the aesthetic elegance of their venue, Pelican Hill Resort. The planning process involved curating not just a ceremony but an immersive experience for their guests, from the Sangeet at Newport VEA, which celebrated their vibrant heritage, to the Rotunda ceremony that seamlessly blended traditional rituals with modern design elements. Every touchpoint, from the Bloombox floral arrangements to the personalized welcome gifts, was intentionally crafted to tell their story.

The feedback we received after the event was overwhelmingly positive, not just from the couple but also from their guests, who felt genuinely connected to the experience. This trend of experience-first planning is redefining the role of wedding planners, turning us into storytellers who use design, logistics, and creativity to craft unforgettable memories.

Opportunities
Innovation in Design: This trend offers an opportunity for planners to collaborate with design-forward vendors who think outside the box. Custom installations, immersive lighting, and sensory-driven experiences are becoming key components of event design.
Stronger Client Relationships: Personalization requires deeper engagement with clients, fostering trust and a more collaborative planning process.
Market Differentiation: By leaning into experiential design, planners can distinguish themselves in a competitive market, offering services that stand out.

Concerns
Budget Constraints: Not all clients have the resources to execute highly personalized experiences. Balancing their vision with budget realities requires careful planning and clear communication.
Vendor Collaboration: Achieving such intricate personalization depends on a strong network of vendors who share the same vision and commitment to quality.
Overwhelming Expectations: The focus on uniqueness can sometimes lead to unrealistic client expectations, making it essential to set boundaries and guide them toward feasible solutions.

Ultimately, this trend is an opportunity for our industry to innovate and elevate what it means to plan a wedding or event. The role of a planner is no longer just about logistics; it’s about creating a seamless, unforgettable journey for the couple and their loved ones. As someone deeply invested in curating such experiences, I find this trend both inspiring and invigorating.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

About Me and How I Got Started
I’m Vidhi, the founder of The Marigold Company, and my journey into wedding and event planning has been nothing short of serendipitous. It all started 10 years ago when I got married. As I planned my own wedding, I realized how much I enjoyed the process—the creativity, the logistics, and the joy of bringing a vision to life. Friends and family began asking me for advice and help with their events, which planted the seed for what would eventually become my business.

A couple of years ago, I had the honor of planning my sister Diti’s wedding. This experience was a pivotal moment for me. For the first time, I saw my work through a completely different lens—that of a guest and member of the bridal party. Being able to step back and experience the day not as a planner but as someone deeply connected to the celebration was profoundly rewarding. Seeing everything unfold so seamlessly, feeling the joy of the couple and guests, and realizing the impact of my work filled me with immense pride. That moment solidified my passion and reinforced why I love doing what I do—helping others celebrate the most meaningful moments of their lives.

What We Do at The Marigold Company
At The Marigold Company, we specialize in full-service wedding and event planning, with an emphasis on personalized experiences and flawless execution. Our services include:

Wedding Planning: From full-service to day-of coordination, we handle all aspects of planning, including budget management, vendor selection, timeline creation, and design execution.
Event Design: We work closely with our clients to bring their vision to life, whether that’s a lavish ballroom wedding or a romantic outdoor celebration.
Vendor Management: Our relationships with top-tier vendors ensure a seamless planning process and exceptional event-day execution.
Logistical Support: We take care of the behind-the-scenes work, so our clients can relax and fully enjoy their day.
We also provide access to our Preferred Vendor List, unlimited email support, and a secure online platform for planning meetings, ensuring a stress-free experience from start to finish.

What Sets Us Apart
Cultural Expertise: As a South Asian planner, I have a deep understanding of the traditions and nuances that are central to many multicultural weddings. Whether it’s navigating multiple ceremonies, creating bespoke fusion experiences, or coordinating with specialized vendors, I bring authenticity and respect to every event.
Attention to Detail: My team and I pride ourselves on our ability to anticipate needs and handle every detail, no matter how small, with care and precision.
Emotional Investment: Planning a wedding is an emotional journey, and I view every couple’s story as unique. I aim to be not just a planner but a trusted partner and advocate for my clients throughout the process.
Creative Storytelling: Our designs are more than décor—they’re an artistic expression of our clients’ love story, values, and dreams.

What Makes Me Proud
I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients and my team. Seeing a bride’s face light up as she walks into her dream ceremony, hearing a family’s gratitude for a perfectly orchestrated weekend, and knowing that my team and I have created memories that will last a lifetime are the most fulfilling aspects of my work.

One event I often look back on with pride is a wedding we planned for Nirali and Amish. They were new to Southern California and relied heavily on us to curate their perfect weekend. From the Sangeet at Newport VEA to the ceremony and reception at Pelican Hill Resort, every detail reflected their personalities and cultural heritage. Seeing everything come together so seamlessly and witnessing the joy on their faces reminded me why I do what I do.

What I Want Clients to Know
If you’re considering The Marigold Company, know that we are more than just planners—we are your partners in crafting one of the most important days of your life. We’re here to listen, guide, and create a celebration that feels authentically yours.

Our ultimate goal is to give you peace of mind so you can be fully present, soaking in every beautiful moment of your special day. Let us take care of the rest!

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been a combination of referrals, relationship building, and showcasing our work authentically.

Referrals and Word-of-Mouth
Nothing speaks louder than the glowing reviews of happy clients. After every wedding or event, I often hear from guests, vendors, or even family members of the couple who reach out because they witnessed the seamless execution and attention to detail that The Marigold Company delivers. These referrals have been instrumental in building a strong network of clients who trust us to bring their visions to life.

One memorable example was from a South Asian wedding we planned at Pelican Hill. The event was so well-received that the bride’s cousin contacted me shortly after to plan her wedding. Referrals like these not only grow our clientele but also affirm the quality of our work.

Vendor Relationships
Cultivating relationships with top-tier venues and vendors has been another critical strategy. By consistently delivering high-quality events and maintaining open communication with our partners, I’ve earned a place on preferred vendor lists at prestigious venues. These partnerships not only keep our pipeline of inquiries steady but also allow us to collaborate with trusted professionals to create exceptional events.

Authenticity in Showcasing Our Work
Showcasing our work authentically, especially through social media and our portfolio, has helped connect us with clients who align with our style and values. Sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, client testimonials, and thoughtful narratives about each event allows potential clients to envision their day with us. By focusing on storytelling, rather than just selling, we’ve been able to create an emotional connection with our audience.

Personalized Client Experiences
From the very first inquiry, I focus on building a relationship with potential clients. I take the time to understand their unique story, vision, and priorities. This personalized approach not only wins trust but often leads to word-of-mouth recommendations from clients who feel truly cared for.

The Results
These strategies have not only helped us grow but have also brought in the right clients—couples and families who value the care, creativity, and cultural expertise we bring to their celebrations. It’s a growth that feels intentional and aligned with the brand values of The Marigold Company.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

A lesson I had to unlearn early in my career is that the wedding day is solely about the couple. In South Asian and South Asian fusion weddings, the day is not just a celebration of two individuals—it’s a deeply rooted family affair, where the roles and experiences of the extended families are just as significant. I quickly realized that ensuring the family feels seen, heard, and valued is key to a successful and harmonious event.

The Backstory
When I first started, I approached weddings with a mindset that the bride and groom were the central focus of the day. While they are undoubtedly at the heart of the celebration, I quickly learned in my first South Asian wedding that the involvement of the family plays an equally crucial role. From traditional rituals to logistical decision-making, family dynamics can greatly influence the flow and energy of the day.

One particular wedding taught me the importance of proactive family engagement. Despite meticulous planning, I noticed on the wedding day that family members had concerns and questions that hadn’t been addressed beforehand, which led to some stressful moments. I realized that while I was focused on the couple, I hadn’t taken the time to build a connection with the family—a key element in South Asian weddings.

The Solution
To address this, I began prioritizing family meetings as a core part of my planning process. These meetings are an opportunity to understand the family’s expectations, clarify roles, and build trust. They allow me to connect with the parents, siblings, and other key family members, ensuring everyone feels involved and aligned. This approach has been transformative—not just for the family, but for the couple as well, as it reduces stress and fosters harmony.

What I Learned
Family is Central to South Asian Weddings: The wedding is as much about the uniting of two families as it is about the couple. Acknowledging and embracing this creates a smoother and more meaningful celebration.
Trust is Built Through Communication: Building a relationship with the family ensures they feel included and reassured, which minimizes day-of tensions.
Preparation Eases Stress: Family meetings allow for proactive discussions about expectations, reducing the potential for last-minute surprises or misunderstandings.

How It Has Shaped My Approach
Now, family meetings are a signature part of my process for every South Asian and South Asian fusion wedding. Whether it’s discussing logistics for the Baraat, understanding family dynamics for the Pheras, or coordinating performances for the Sangeet, these meetings lay the groundwork for a seamless day. They create a sense of partnership between me, the family, and the couple, which is vital in South Asian weddings.

By unlearning the idea that weddings are only about the couple, I’ve embraced what truly makes South Asian weddings so special: their ability to bring families together in a celebration of love, tradition, and connection. This shift has not only improved the experience for my clients but has also deepened my appreciation for the cultural richness of the events I plan.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.themarigoldcompany.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marigoldcompany/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marigoldcompany/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarigoldCompany
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-marigold-company-irvine-5
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@themarigoldcompany

Image Credits

Black and White Reception, White Invitations | Makenzie Rogers
Vow Book and Turban | Balerina Films
Bridal Details and Getting Ready | American Portra
Blue Invitations | Anya Kernes