Sarah & Joao’s Wedding
In April 2024, Keli reached out to me on Instagram while searching for a Destination wedding planner in Dubai for her 18-year-old daughter, Sara.
At first, we exchanged a few messages, but there was a language barrier—Keli wasn’t very comfortable with English because she was from Brazil. So, we scheduled a call, and that’s when Sara joined us along with her fiancé and mother-in-law. Sara became the bridge between us, translating her mother’s vision with so much love and care. It was clear from the beginning—this wedding wasn’t just important; it was her mother’s dream.
After a few meetings they booked me as their wedding planner and full day event coordination, and we started working on venue hunting we shortlisted the perfect venue that matched Keli’s vision: a beautiful skyline view with the Burj in the background. We chose the Palace Downtown Hotel, and it couldn’t have been more perfect.
The wedding was intimate, with only close family members. Every detail—from the décor to the wedding favors—reflected a mother’s love for her daughter.
They arrived in Dubai a week before the wedding, and Keli had a special request: customized Dubai-famous ice cream bars placed in every room, with the names “Sara & Joao.” Of course, I made it happen.
Although we had been in constant contact through calls and WhatsApp for months, meeting them in person felt like reconnecting with people I already knew not only as wedding planner even as a friend to bride’s mother who hardly can understand English. I walked them through the venue, showing the terrace, the floral concepts, and helping them visualize the entire setup.
Finally, the big day arrived Dec 4, 2024.
Unlike many brides or families, they were calm—because we had spent nearly a year planning every single detail together.
While they were getting ready, I was with my team, finalizing the floral arrangements. I’ll admit—I was a little nervous. I had added subtle colors to the flowers, even though Keli initially wanted something more minimal. But as a professional, I knew those touches would bring the setup to life.
Two hours before the ceremony, I asked her to come see everything—just in case she wanted any changes.
She walked in… and started crying.
Those weren’t tears of worry, but of pure joy. She told me it was more beautiful than she had ever imagined.
And in that moment, I knew—that’s exactly why I do what I do.
With Sara & Joao’s journey, I not only planned a beautiful wedding—but I also met a beautiful soul who became a dearest friend, Cris Keli.
My advice to every couple and family: trust your wedding planner—but choose wisely.
Look for someone with real, hands-on experience. Take the time to clearly explain your vision, your likes, and your dislikes. Once you’ve found the right planner, trust them to bring your ideas to life in the best possible way.
Wedding planning is an art that comes from the heart—it’s not something everyone can do. These days, many people claim to be planners, but without the right experience, things can quickly go wrong on your big day.
