Milestones of Success: Devanshi Patel’s Insights as a Young Professional

by  Komal Darji Industry Watch | October 3, 2024 | Interview

Devanshi Patel Shreem Events

Devanshi Patel is a dedicated wedding planner based in Mumbai, known for her innovative approach in the luxury event industry. As the founder of Shreem Events, she has over a decade of experience, starting her journey in event management at the age of 19. Specializing in ultra-high-net-worth weddings and destination events, Devanshi has orchestrated numerous memorable occasions, including the notable wedding of Hardik Pandya and Nataša Stanković. Her focus on personalized details ensures that each event reflects the couple's unique story. With a vision for the future of wedding planning, Devanshi is committed to blending tradition with modernity while continuing to deliver exceptional experiences.

In an exclusive interview with EVENTFAQS Media, Devanshi Patel discusses several key topics, including the biggest influences on her entrepreneurial journey, the significance of her recognition in the 35 Under 35 list, and the years that have shaped her career. She reflects on her dedication in the wedding industry, shares her ultimate goals for the industry, and how she plans to achieve them. Additionally, Devanshi highlights her biggest learning experiences as a young professional and offers advice for others aspiring to succeed in the field. She concludes with some personal reflections on her journey.

Who or what has been the biggest influence on your entrepreneurial journey?

The biggest influence on my entrepreneurial journey has been my desire to create unforgettable experiences. Since my college years, my extensive travels around the world have fueled my aspiration to craft something truly unique. These experiences serve as a constant source of inspiration, igniting my passion for ensuring that my work touches people’s hearts and resonates with their emotions.

My journey into the wedding industry began while working on high-profile live events like the IIFA Awards. I quickly realized that weddings are not merely about beautiful decor or grand venues; they are about the cherished memories created for families. This understanding is rooted in the values instilled in me by my parents, hard work, resilience, and ethics, which have guided my path. I have always found joy in storytelling and curating moments of happiness, driving my creativity and commitment to each event.

I’ve been fortunate to encounter several mentors who have significantly shaped my journey. One pivotal experience was being part of organizing a wedding in Puglia, Italy, which opened my eyes to the grandeur and possibilities within this industry. Influential figures such as Natasha from Divinity Weddings, along with the teams at 70 EMG, Wedniksha, and Wizcraft, have provided immense support and guidance throughout my growth. My experience with the IIFA Awards was particularly formative, helping me solidify my footing in the events sector.

Among the many individuals who have inspired me, Dipali Goenka stands out as a phenomenal figure. What began as a professional-client relationship evolved into a personal relationship, greatly impacting my values. Observing her ability to balance planning her daughter’s wedding with her professional and family commitments exemplified how to harmoniously integrate business and personal life. She truly is a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs like myself.

Being recognized in the 35 Under 35 is a major accomplishment. What do you think has contributed most to your success?

I believe staying ahead of trends and understanding the emotional and cultural significance of weddings has been crucial to my success. I focus on blending luxury with meaningful experiences at every event. Personalizing each celebration for the couple is key to ensure that every guest leaves with a memorable experience. Attention to detail is paramount; so you have to make sure every element aligns with the couple’s vision. Ultimately, it’s about making their day a highlight, where they are the stars, and everything revolves around them. That’s the signature touch Shreem Events brings to every wedding.

I’m also fortunate to have a dedicated team that serves as my backbone. I constantly learn from every project, taking away valuable lessons that contribute to my growth. This recognition as part of the 35 Under 35 is a significant achievement for me, as it reflects the hard work we’ve put in every day. When I look back, it’s not just about the accolade; it’s about the countless days and years that have shaped our journey, 365 days a year for almost a decade of dedication.

What is your ultimate goal for the wedding industry, and how do you plan to achieve it?

My ultimate goal is to elevate Indian weddings to a global scale. By global scale, I mean either hosting weddings internationally or attracting a global audience to experience weddings in India. I aim to collaborate with the best in creativity while ensuring a luxurious element in all our planning.

I envision weddings that are personal, immersive, and mindful, having unique and one-of-a-kind experiences. My research will remain focused on staying ahead of trends and relentlessly pushing our innovative boundaries. This involves thoughtful designs, considering the environment, and embracing under-consumption trends. I want to revisit ideas that have been lost over time, respecting traditions while also adapting to modern influences. Moreover, I’m committed to redefining luxury in the wedding industry, emphasizing that it’s not solely about grand setups but also about intimate experiences that can be just as luxurious when detailed thoughtfully.

What has been your biggest learning experience as a young professional in this industry?

At a very early age, I learned that the most significant distinction in this industry is often between how women and men are perceived in their roles. Ultimately, it’s the effort and hard work you put in that earns you recognition. Most of our work has come through word of mouth, reflecting clients’ appreciation for what we do.

A pivotal learning experience has been the realization that, regardless of how meticulously a plan is crafted, unexpected challenges can arise. Flexibility, effective problem-solving under pressure, and maintaining composure are essential. I often project a cheerful demeanor, even when facing inner turmoil, as a calm presence helps reassure those around me.

I’ve come to understand the importance of these events for families and guests, who dedicate their time to celebrate with the couple. For the couple, these moments are milestone events that will be remembered for a lifetime, so ensuring they are special is paramount.

My approach has always been collaboration over competition, and I strongly believe in the power of partnerships, as every vendor in this industry strives to make someone’s day memorable. A collaborative approach leads to smoother execution and better synergy. Building strong relationships with vendors is essential; everything operates hand in hand. Trust is a critical factor in our industry, clients often choose planners and vendors based on trust. Therefore, being ethical and standing by our commitments is crucial.

Finally, staying updated with trends and embracing innovative ideas is vital. Drawing inspiration from travel, food, and experiences helps us incorporate fresh perspectives into our work.

What advice would you give to other young professionals aspiring to be successful in the wedding industry?

My advice to young professionals aspiring to succeed in the wedding industry is to accept both the dreamer and the realist within you. As a dreamer, envision grand possibilities that take events to extraordinary heights. However, it’s equally crucial to remain practical and detail-oriented, ensuring that you are logistically prepared for every aspect of planning. Establishing a unique niche is vital. Building genuine relationships and maintaining humility throughout your journey will serve you well at every stage of this industry.

Above all, this has always been our mantra: never compromise on the emotional aspect of a wedding. Celebrating a couple’s love and their special day should always take precedence. Ethical practices are paramount, and this is a value I am committed to passing on to future generations.

What additional points or reflections would you like to share with us?

This is an exciting time for the wedding industry, as clients increasingly seek personalized and unique celebrations. With the vast resources available on the internet, couples are more informed than ever about what they want. They no longer rely solely on planners or traditional ideas; instead, they are bringing their own creative visions to life.

I believe the future of weddings will strike a harmonious balance between grand luxury and thoughtful intimacy, integrating sophisticated technological elements into the celebration. I am truly grateful for the recognition I’ve received, and I look forward to expanding Shreem Events. My goal is to help couples and families celebrate love in extraordinary ways, infusing each event with heartfelt emotion, an essence that is integral to who I am.