Welcome to the premiere of our exclusive interview series, capturing the insights of leading luxury wedding experts on location at The Dolder Grand in Zurich.

In this initial collective feature, we bring together premier destination wedding planners and creative directors to discuss why Switzerland stands as one of the world’s most coveted settings for milestone celebrations. From navigating high-end logistics to embracing the country's breathtaking natural landscapes, historic castles, and alpine heritage, these industry experts share what it takes to execute a flawless Swiss destination wedding.

Explore curated regional guides, premier venues, and luxury wedding directories on our dedicated digital hub: https://weddedwonderland.com/destinations/europe/switzerland

This series is proudly produced in partnership with the Switzerland Tourism Board.

Shot at The Dolder Grand https://www.instagram.com/thedoldergrand/

Directed & Filmed by Emma Wilson, Story of Your Day https://www.instagram.com/storyofyourday/

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What does it really take to build a global fashion brand from scratch? 

In this episode of Get Wedded in Wonderland, we sit down with globally renowned Filipino designer Francis Libiran to explore how he built a multi-million dollar fashion, bridal, and lifestyle empire spanning couture, ready-to-wear, furniture, and fragrance. 

From humble beginnings in architecture to becoming a globally recognised designer dressing pageant queens, celebrities, and international runways, this is a story of creativity, resilience, and legacy.

From dressing pageant queens and international celebrities to showcasing collections across the world,  including the Olympics and major runway stages, Francis Libiran has become one of the most influential designers to emerge from the Philippines.

We also dive into his latest global showcase moment at Wedded World in Sydney, where his work was presented as part of an immersive luxury runway experience connecting designers, couples, and industry leaders from around the world.

We discuss the evolution of the brand from couture bridal to ready-to-wear, furniture, fragrance, and beyond, and what it really takes to build a trusted global label rooted in culture and storytelling.

In this episode, we explore:

• The origin story of Francis Libiran’s fashion journey (from architecture to couture)
• Building a 27+ year creative partnership and business legacy
• The evolution from bridal couture to a full lifestyle brand
• Ready-to-wear, furniture, fragrance, and global expansion
• The future of fashion, weddings, and experiential luxury
• Wedded World Sydney and the rise of immersive wedding experiences
• What it really takes to build a trusted global brand from the Philippines

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction: Get Wedded in Wonderland with Francis Libiran
01:28 - From the Philippines to Global Fashion Recognition
03:40 - Architecture to Fashion: The Origin Story
05:30 - 27 Years of Building a Fashion & Business Empire
06:40 - Designing for Brides: Emotion, Storytelling & Identity
08:20 - Couture vs Ready-to-Wear: Demi Couture Explained
10:20 - Expanding Into a Global Lifestyle Brand
12:40 - Menswear, Runway Moments & Statement Design
14:20 - The Art of Detail: Surprise in Every Design
16:00 - Filipino Creativity, Culture & Global Talent
18:10 - Future Growth: Beauty, Fragrance & Expansion
 19:50 - Cultural Identity on the Global Stage
 21:30 - Challenges of Building a Global Brand in the Philippines
 22:45 - Wedded World: Behind the Sydney Immersive Experience
 24:35 - Future Shows & Southeast Asia Expansion
 26:30 - Closing Reflections: Legacy, Love & Brand Vision

This is a powerful conversation about creativity, resilience, cultural identity, and the business of beauty,  and how storytelling sits at the heart of every design.

Hosted by Get Wedded in Wonderland

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A must-listen for brides who want their final look to feel intentional, elevated and completely their own.

How do you actually find the perfect wedding dress when there are so many opinions, so many options, and so much pressure?
In this episode, Wendy El-Khoury is joined by Mehtap from GBG Style, a celebrity and bridal stylist from Turkey, to unpack what brides really need during the dress journey, from expert styling and body-shape guidance to venue-based looks, bridal confidence, and avoiding overwhelm.
They also dive into multiple bridal looks, ready-to-wear vs custom gowns, and why more international brides are travelling to Turkey for their wedding dress experience.

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Website: https://weddedwonderland.com/
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wedded.wonderland 

NEW EPISODE IS NOW LIVE

What actually makes wedding content unforgettable?

In this episode of Wedded Business Journal, Wendy El-Khoury sits down with Danielle from Sandbar Socials, one of Australia’s most in-demand wedding content creators, live from the official launch of The Brighton Sydney.

From quiet, emotional moments behind the scenes to viral edits couples can’t stop rewatching, Danielle shares what really matters when it comes to capturing weddings authentically, especially for couples who aren’t comfortable in front of the camera.

We discuss:

• Why the in-between moments matter more than posed shots
• How couples are briefed before the wedding day
• What to expect from a professional content creator (timelines, edits, delivery)
  Why content creation has become a must-have, not a nice-to-have
• The growing role of content creators across proposals, pre-events and weddings
• How venues like The Brighton are being used beyond weddings — from corporate to private celebrations
  
  
  

This episode is an honest look at modern wedding content, where emotion, speed, storytelling and trust all come together.

If you’re planning a wedding, building a brand, or working in events, this is a conversation worth listening to.

#weddedbusinessjournal #weddedwonderland #weddingcontentcreator #weddingcontent #weddingindustry #luxuryweddings #weddingplanning #weddinginspo #modernweddings #eventindustry #contentcreation #behindthescenes #weddingvendors #bridetobe #eventdesign #experientialluxury #fyp #trending

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NEW EPISODE IS LIVE
What if music wasn’t just part of the event,  but the soul of it?

In this episode of Wedded Business Journal, we sit down with Jad Al-Masri, a multifaceted violinist, composer and creative innovator, alongside his father Rabih Al Masri , a master arranger and one of the most respected musical forces in Middle Eastern music.

Together, they are redefining how music is experienced at luxury weddings, large-scale celebrations and live performances, blending Eastern and Western soundscapes into deeply emotional, bespoke compositions.

We explore:
-Why sound is the most neglected sense in modern weddings
-How bespoke music creates unforgettable emotional moments
-The shift from DJs and bands to cinematic, orchestrated experiences
-The power of live orchestras and why nothing compares to live sound
-Cross-cultural weddings and how music can unite traditions seamlessly
-Their upcoming 30-piece East & West orchestra concert in Sydney
-And how AI and technology are being used to enhance, not replace, creativity through Jad’s new platform, Muse AI

This conversation is about legacy, innovation, culture, and why truly luxurious experiences engage all five senses,  not just what you see, but what you feel.
If you care about music, creativity, weddings, live experiences, or the future of artistic expression, this episode is a must-listen.

🎟️ Concert date: January 30 | Sydney

#weddedbusinessjournal #weddedwonderland #luxuryweddings  #eventdesign #weddingmusic #liveorchestra #bespokeweddings #creativeleadership #culturalevents #crossculturalweddings #eventindustry #weddingprofessionals #sounddesign #experientialluxury #liveperformance #musicandculture

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NEW EPISODE OUT NOW

In this episode of the Wedded Business Journal, our Founder & CEO Wendy El-Khoury sits down with Preet H Jain, the visionary creative behind Bling Mushrooms and one of the most influential names shaping luxury weddings today.
This conversation pulls back the curtain on Preet’s lavish world of weddings. Where design becomes storytelling, craftsmanship becomes theatre, and weddings transform into experiences that stay with guests long after the night ends.

Together, Wendy and Preet dive into:

-How she designs weddings that feel timeless, not trendy
-The art of crafting multi-sensory experiences
-Working with artisans and craftsmen to build bespoke, museum-worthy pieces
-Navigating the expectations of ultra high net worth and high-profile luxury clients
-Growing a global design house across India, Italy, and the Middle East
-Finding the balance between what clients want and what the creative vision requires
-The realities of building an authentic digital presence in a saturated industry

Preet shares the decisions, boundaries, and breakthroughs that shaped her journey, and the philosophy behind creating weddings that don’t just look beautiful, but feel meaningful.

You’ll hear stories from inside some of the world’s most exclusive celebrations, including her work with the Ambani family, and her approach to international destination weddings that span cultures, continents, and creative expectations.

If you’re a wedding designer, planner, creative, or a couple dreaming up your own celebration, this episode is rich with insight, honesty, and inspiration from one of the industry’s most distinctive voices.

Watch the full interview, and step into the world of Bling Mushrooms, where imagination, artistry, and intention collide.

Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with the leaders shaping the global wedding industry.

#LuxuryWeddings #BlingMushrooms #WeddingArchitect #DestinationWeddings #WeddingDesign #ExperientialWeddings #IndianWeddings #LuxuryEventPlanning #WeddingInspiration #HighProfileWeddings #WeddingDesignTips #BespokeWeddings #CreativeWeddings #WeddingStorytelling #ArtisanWeddings #LuxuryWeddingDesign #GlobalWeddings #WeddingIndustryInsights #WeddingProfessionals #WeddedWonderland

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In today’s episode of Get Wedded in Wonderland, Wendy El-Khoury sits down with the incredible Sarah Michaels, the brilliant mind behind the beloved characters Najwa, Maryam, and the daughter so many of us relate to.

This is not just a comedy conversation, it’s a raw, honest, emotional deep dive into:

• Cultural identity
• Motherhood & guilt
  The migrant experience
• Finding your voice
• Believing in your talent
• Turning pain into performance
• And the power of making people feel seen
  
  
  

Sarah opens up about the long road to going viral, consistency through years of doubt, balancing motherhood and creativity, and how her characters became a form of healing, not only for her, but for millions across the world.

You’ll hear:

- How Najwa and Maryam were born
- Why comedy can heal cultural generational trauma
-The moment she decided to stop waiting for permission
- What it’s like to finally feel supported by her own mother
-How she found confidence after years of self-doubt
-Why followers feel like family
- And why staying authentic is her greatest power

If you’re a creative, a migrant, a mum, a daughter, or someone living between two cultures, this episode will hit home.

Watch the full interview now and join the millions who feel seen through Sarah’s comedy.
Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories, cultural conversations, and behind-the-scenes moments from Wedded Wonderland.

 #najwa #maryam #sarahmichaels #australianlebanese #culturalcomedy #ethnicmums
 #ethniccomedy #arabcomedy #relatablecontent #relatablemums #migrantstories
 #thirdculturekids #twoculturesonehome #bicultural #australianarab #australianlebanese
 #familydynamics #motherhoodunfiltered #mumlifeaus #aussiemums #mumhumor
 #creativesofinstagram #creatorspotlight #contentcreatorsaustralia #contentcreationjourney
 #femalecreators #womenwhocreate #womenwholaugh #womenwholead
 #healingthroughhumor #traumatolaughter #comedyheals #mentalhealthawareness
 #viralcreators #viralcharacters #sketchcomedy #comedyskits #comedylovers
 #diasporacommunity #diasporakids #arabmums #arabwomen #arabmothers
 #southwestsydey #australianlebos #lebosinaustralia #lebaneseaustralian
 #cultureshift #representationmatters #feelingseen #foundmyvoice
 #followyourcalling #believeinyourself #authenticallyyou 

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NEW EPISODE IS OUT NOW!!!!!

In this episode of Get Wedded in Wonderland, host Wendy El-Khoury sits down with Ibby Moubadder, co-founder of Esca Group and fiancee Viktoria Bjørsvik, to dive deep into the world of wedding planning while running a successful business. Ibby shares his insights on balancing a busy entrepreneurial life with planning his dream wedding in Lebanon, the challenges of destination weddings, and how to blend culture with luxury.
 
From managing multiple venues and restaurants to navigating wedding vendors, the duo explores what it takes to plan a wedding when business is booming. Plus, hear about Ibby's vision for the perfect Lebanese wedding, from traditional food to entertainment, and how culture influences every detail.
 
This candid conversation is a must-watch for wedding planners, entrepreneurs, and couples planning a cross-cultural wedding.
 
Subscribe for more episodes, tips, and insights into the world of weddings and luxury!
 
Watch the full episode to discover:
- Balancing entrepreneurship & wedding planning
- Creating the perfect destination wedding
- The role of culture in wedding entertainment & cuisine

Timestamps: 

01:05- Balancing Business and Wedding Planning
02:48 - Why choosing the right vendors is so important
3:50 - Cross Cultural Weddings: here's what you need to know
4:51 -  How to stay on Track with Wedding Planning
5:28 - The Pressure of Choosing Vendors Abroad
7:12- Lebanese Wedding Food: More Than Just a Meal
10:45 - Traditional and Modern Entertainment at the Wedding
11:31- How to Mix Classical and Traditional Music
13:48 -  Multi-Day Wedding Celebration in Lebanon
14:30 -  The Importance of Poetry at Lebanese Weddings
15:41 - Personal Notes vs. Wedding Speeches
17:04 - Entertainment for guests
18:06 - What's next for Ibby and Victoria

Stay tuned for more exciting episodes of Get Wedded in Wonderland!

Watch the full episode on YouTube : https://youtu.be/kvK_LqM63k4

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#weddedinwonderland #weddingplanning #destinationwedding #lebaneseweddings #escagroup #luxuryweddings #weddingtips

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NEW EPISODE OUT NOW!

Raj Somaiya from Silverfox Events Joins Host Wendy El-Khoury for an Exclusive Interview!
In this game-changing episode of the Wedded Business Journal Podcast, we sit down with Raj, the visionary founder of Silverfox Events, as he opens up about his journey to success, behind-the-scenes secrets, and the future of the wedding industry. 

What you’ll learn:
The evolution of luxury wedding planning and what’s next for the industry 
Expert insights into client relationships and creating unforgettable experiences
Key tips for aspiring wedding planners to build a successful business
Why Silverfox Events continues to set the bar for high-end, luxury weddings
If you’re a wedding industry pro, aspiring planner, or simply someone who loves all things luxury weddings, this episode is a must-watch! 
Hit subscribe and turn on the notification bell, so you never miss an exclusive episode of the Wedded Business Journal Podcast!
WATCH NOW and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Timestamps:

00:00 - Wedding briefs and descriptions: Why every wedding is unique
00:30 - Raj’s expertise in luxury events and catering to ultra-high-net-worth clients
01:23 - Starting Silver Fox Events in 1991 and the evolution of his career
02:24 - From local events to luxury, destination, and multi-day experiences
07:16 - Pioneering Asian weddings and consulting for venues in 1994
07:53 - Transition from event planner to event architect
08:51 - Creating a unique experience for every client, using the recipe analogy
09:11 - Deconstructing events and the importance of customization
10:30 - How character and culture influence event design
12:30 - The fusion of souls in weddings and bringing them to life
15:32 - Exploring the Middle East market and the Silver Fox approach
16:47 - Why the Middle East is always looking for something new
17:28 - Consulting with hotels to understand the ultra-high-net-worth market
19:57 - Selecting the right destination for the right event
22:00 - Destination weddings: Logistics and creating magical in-between moments
23:30 - The role of tourism boards and understanding global wedding markets
24:00 - Why the UK excels at event planning and what sets it apart
27:03 - The five senses approach to event design and creating unforgettable experiences
30:32 - The future of weddings: Moving away from social media and embracing quiet luxury
32:05 - Fashion’s influence on weddings and the desire for custom experiences
33:14 - Advice for planners and venues looking to work on $2M+ events
35:43 - Creating win-win scenarios with venues and collaborating for success
36:42 - Raj’s vision for Silver Fox Events’ global expansion
38:00 - Reflecting on Raj’s journey and the future of Silver Fox Events
39:01 - Closing thoughts and gratitude for the journey so far


#WeddedBusinessJournal #RajSilverfoxEvents #LuxuryWeddings #WeddingIndustry #EventPlanning #Podcast #WeddingBusiness #WeddedWonderland #EventProfs #WeddingInspiration

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From florist to full-scale event designer, John Emmanuel has spent over 30 years shaping some of the most breathtaking weddings across Australia and the world.

In this exclusive conversation with Wendy El-Khoury, he opens up about his creative evolution, the art of timeless design, and why Australian weddings deserve the global spotlight.

Through his partnership with Wedded Wonderland, John refined his brand identity, clarified his creative offer, and strengthened his place at the heart of the luxury wedding community, inspiring a new generation of designers to dream bigger.

Watch as John shares stories of his early beginnings, designing viral events, family collaborations, and his vision for the future of destination weddings, all anchored in one message: it’s always about the client.

Featuring insights on:

-How luxury weddings are evolving post-COVID

-Designing with emotion and intention

-Australia’s rise as a global wedding destination

-Building a creative legacy that lasts

Timestamps:

0:00 Frustration with trends → evolving from florist to event designer
0:21 Wendy joins
0:33 “We go way back”- early Facebook days
0:57 Being featured on Wedded Wonderland
1:13 First collab: Karen Tran masterclasses (2014–2015)
1:33 Record-breaking floral wedding dress
1:54 Classic style never dates; John’s career timeline
2:16 34 years in weddings - starting at 13
2:35 From retail floristry to full-service events
3:00 Creative direction across the whole event
 3:30 Designing a christening around a tablecloth
 3:50 Beyond flowers: textures, flow, client-first
 4:11 Getting into clients’ heads; upcoming weddings
 4:28 Family team: Daniela, son, and Lisa
 4:51 Post-COVID shift back to classic
 5:09 From resisting trends to client-led design
 5:30 Three sisters, three distinct weddings
 6:15 Knowing clients through design & production
 6:32 Mother-of-the-bride reactions
 6:55 Brand ethos: luxury yet humble and client-first
 7:09 Philippines masterclass with Gideon
 7:26 Sydney masterclasses; always keep learning
 7:46 Education focus; online vs in-person
 8:08 Online course (multi-language)
 8:25 Who the course is for & where to find it
 8:46 15 m aisle at Bennelong Lawn (Opera House)
 9:08 Iconic Sydney ceremony setting
 9:27 Outdoor weddings in Australia & weather reality
 10:29 Designing for venue + client; tables & budgets
 11:10 Educating clients; worst-case budgeting
 11:56 Service tiers: flowers-only / design-production / full coordination
 12:19 Delivering a great overall experience
 13:18 Next 5 years: become a design house
 13:53 Make Australia a luxury destination-wedding hub
 14:16 Diverse Aussie landscapes & venues
 16:01 Aussie weddings’ global recognition; Wedded Week
 17:27 Value to couples; Lake Como vibes at home
 18:10 Domestic destination-wedding vibes
 19:14 Picking the right partners; logistics matter
 20:10 Options, add-ons, and transparent pricing
 21:06 Throwback: Wedded World runway
 21:25 What’s next for Wedded Wonderland
 22:07 Thanks & wrap-up

#weddedweek #weddedwonderland #johnemmanuel #luxurywedding #weddingdesign #eventplanner #destinationwedding #australianwedding #weddinginspiration #weddingindus