From helping her mother with wedding henna applications as a child to becoming a Certified Wedding Planner, Certified Educator, and the proud Owner of Big Guava Events, Rima Shah’s journey reflects the vibrant evolution of cultural celebrations in America. In this episode, Rima joins host Krisy Thomas for a rich and insightful conversation exploring the dynamic, intricate world of South Asian weddings.

Rima reveals how these multi-day festivities require meticulous attention to detail—navigating religious ceremonies, family traditions, and personal touches that reflect couples' bicultural identities. She candidly shares how proper education transformed her approach, giving her the confidence to build a thriving business despite initial family skepticism about her career path.

What truly sets South Asian weddings apart are the "mini events within the grand event," each requiring precise timing and coordination. Rima's passionate description of traditional elements like Mehndi applications and dhol drummers alongside contemporary touches offers listeners a masterclass in cultural celebration planning. Her unexpected story about managing a lighting-triggered medical emergency reminds professionals about the importance of thorough preparation.

Perhaps most touching is Rima's reflection on becoming a permanent part of her clients' families—the wedding planner who gets invited to international vacations and becomes the go-to professional for multiple family celebrations. This profound connection illustrates why, despite limiting herself to just 10–15 weddings annually, her business thrives through deep relationships and exceptional service.

Whether you're a wedding professional looking to expand your cultural expertise or simply fascinated by the rich traditions of South Asian celebrations, this episode offers invaluable insights from someone who has truly mastered the art of honoring heritage while creating personalized modern celebrations.

Ready to elevate your wedding planning expertise? Visit cwpsociety.com to explore our certification programs and join our supportive community of professional wedding planners.

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