JOANN GREGOLI, QUEEN OF NEW YORK



🇮🇹: tinyurl.com/4ha93mmk


JoAnn Gregoli is a legend in the domain of event design and production. Based in NYC, with offices in Rome and Marrakesh, JoAnn and her team of five full-time staff have been creating fantastic, highly memorable weddings for thirty years. Here, we discuss the pros and cons of destination weddings and the allure of New York, New York – the magical city that never sleeps…

C&B: “JoAnn, congratulations on all your phenomenal success in what is a highly competitive business! We love the Big Apple and all its various iconic landmarks. What would you say are the biggest draws for any client considering hosting an event in your home city of New York?”

JG: “The energy and vibrancy of NYC create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on couples and guests alike. It offers iconic photography options that capture unforgettable moments with the city’s landmarks as the backdrop, making the wedding photos timeless treasures. These factors combine to make New York City a premier wedding destination, providing an unparalleled mix of elegance, excitement, and unforgettable experiences…”



C&B: “How do you go about structuring the initial plans for staging any wedding?”

JG: “I make it easy for couples to follow and implement my tips and strategies; first, we establish a budget to determine their budget early and we all stick to it, we then prioritise whatever are the most important elements are to the couple. We always believe in keeping it real and telling them about any potential pitfalls – although a good planner is a person who can think on their feet and handle any situation that arises. After that, we create a detailed timeline with tasks and deadlines to keep everyone on track. Finally, we create a vision board to ensure the wedding is all about the couple and that it focusses on personalised items…”



A destination wedding offers a one-of-a-kind experience, making the celebration unforgettable for both the couple and their guests, which creates unique and memorable experiences…”

JoAnn Gregoli, Elegant Occasions by JoAnn Gregoli


C&B: “Exotic destinations and unique locations are so enticing to those planning a wedding – and it’s so very important they’re geared up for the required vibe… are there any you would particularly recommend for special occasions?”

JG: “I work all over the world, but I do love the Belmond brand and the boutique brands that give my clients a very memorable and personalised experience…”



C&B: “Do you find working on overseas projects presents more in the way of challenges?”

JG: “Many destinations have unique challenges, but the most common is the unpredictable weather; there can always be completely unexpected weather events! Having a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies and receptions is crucial, as is local vendor reliability. Finding and vetting reliable vendors in a distant location can be challenging. Ensuring they understand and can deliver on your vision requires thorough research and, often, a level of trust…”


With over two decades of experience, my extensive knowledge and expertise in the industry allows us to navigate challenges smoothly and deliver exceptional results…”

JoAnn Gregoli, Elegant Occasions by JoAnn Gregoli

C&B: “We can imagine… you can only control el to a certain degree then you have to rely on suppliers to comprehend the theme then play their part to the full. Talking of vendors and overseas events, what style of decor and menu choices do your clients tend to go for at events you organise?”

JG: “We always try to incorporate local flavours and specialities to give guests an authentic taste of the destination; this can include regional dishes, fresh seafood, local spices, and traditional desserts. We also blend local cuisine with the couple’s favourite foods or dishes from their cultural backgrounds to create diverse and appealing menus. We use ingredients that are in season at the destination for the freshest and most flavourful dishes…”



My ability to understand and capture each client’s vision, creating a bespoke event that reflects their personality and desires, sets my brand apart…”

JoAnn Gregoli, Elegant Occasions by JoAnn Gregoli

“For decor, we utilise the natural beauty of the destination; as an example, for beach weddings, this could include shells, driftwood, and tropical flowers. For a vineyard setting, our clients could consider grapevines, barrels, and rustic wood elements. We also infuse elements of the local culture into the decor – this might include traditional fabrics, patterns, or artefacts unique to the region. We also seleca colour palette that complements the natural surroundings and the preferences of the couple. Soft pastels might suit a beach wedding, while rich, earthy tones could enhance a countryside venue…”


For me, the use of lighting to create ambiance, such as lanterns, string lights, and candles, enhances the romantic and intimate atmosphere of the destination…”

JoAnn Gregoli, Elegant Occasions by JoAnn Gregoli


C&B: “It must be wonderful to see your vision materialise, however, we know it’s stressful – you have to hope, pray and keep your fingers crossed that every minute aspect goes exactly to plan! How do you relax afterwards?”

JG: “Yes, relaxing after a stressful event is crucial for restoring my mental and physical well-being. I practice deep breathing techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing or the 4-7-8 method, which help calm my nervous system. I always have a massage to relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation. It’s also very important to practice mindfulness or guided meditation to clear my mind and focus on the present moment. I also try to take a break from screens, including phones, computers, and televisions, to reduce sensory overload and mental fatigue…”


C&B: “It sounds like you have a full recuperation plan for the aftermath and it’s so necessary to avoid total burn-out. Do you ever collaborate with others in the lifestyle business to double the impact and divide the pressure ie two great names in the events industry working together?”

JG: “I have would love to collaborate with the infamous Preston Bailey (below right); my dear friend has such great vision, style, and uniqueness to his work that I’d be honoured!”



C&B: “Over the years you’ve created so many special occasions that your appreciative clients will remember forever; on a personal level, what would you say is your biggest accomplishment to date?”

JG: “Besides raising children alone as a single mom, I would say that the formation of The Sewing Angels during COVID has been significant. The Sewing Angels is a group dedicated to crafting beautiful, handmade items for those in need. This project has not only allowed us to give back to our community but has also brought together talented individuals who share a passion for making a difference. The joy and gratitude we receive from those we help are indescribable. It serves as a reminder of the incredible impact we can have when we come together with a common purpose…”


WEBSITE: http://www.elegantoccasionsbyjoanngregoli.com



 

 

Comments are closed.

CLOSE
CLOSE