As a destination wedding and events planner based in Dubai, Tasneem Alibhai specializes in creating beautiful, lasting memories by crafting bespoke experiences tailored to each of her clients’ unique visions. We first cane across Tasneem’s incredible work when we spotted the wedding of Caroline Stanbury and Sergio Carrallo in the media. Here we discuss Tasneem’s inspiration, career path and favourite wedding destinations…
We had the privilege of planning Caroline Stanbury and Sergio’s wedding, featured on Bravo TV’s ‘Real Housewives of Dubai’, showcasing our ability to create luxurious and memorable events for high-profile clients…”
Tasneem Alibhai, Destination Wedding Planner
C&B: “Why did you specifically choose Dubai to set up your event planning business back in 2006?”
TA: “I decided to set up my business in Dubai because it’s a growing city with a vibrant, multicultural environment; the diverse population provides a rich tapestry of cultural influences that inspire unique and memorable events. Additionally, Dubai is a global hub, making it easily accessible from all around the world, which is ideal for destination weddings and events…”
I chose this career path because my own wedding was far from the dream I had envisioned. It was a love marriage, and our parents were against it. With less than 48 hours to plan, I had to borrow clothes and jewelry, and there was no decor. Like many girls, I had always dreamed of a perfect wedding filled with beautiful decorations and personal touches, but I had none of that. At the time, our love was all that mattered, and we just wanted to be married. This experience drives me to ensure that every bride I work with gets the wedding of her dreams; I go the extra mile to make sure her vision is brought to life. In every wedding I plan, you’ll find a piece of my own dream, reflecting the love and attention to detail I had wished for on my own special day…”
Tasneem Alibhai, Destination Wedding Planner
C&B: “In addition to being an exciting destination, Dubai also has amazing venues – which do you suggest to your clients?”
TA: “We tend to work extensively with renowned hotel brands such as The Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Belmond Hotels, Mandarin Oriental, and many others. These partnerships allow us to offer our clients exceptional venues and services, ensuring that every event is executed to perfection…”
I gained my experience by working with top event planning companies in Dubai and through hands-on experience with a diverse range of events. I specialise in curating unforgettable experiences for luxury weddings, where every detail is meticulously planned to reflect the couple’s unique style and vision. Additionally, I excel at crafting memorable milestone events, such as birthdays and anniversaries, infusing each celebration with creativity and elegance. My goal is to create moments that leave a lasting impression, ensuring that every event I plan is a cherished and unforgettable experience for my clients and their guests…”
Tasneem Alibhai, Destination Wedding Planner
C&B: “Instagram provides a fantastic showcase for event designers and wedding planners…”
TA: “Yes, our active presence on social media platforms allows us to showcase our portfolio of successful past events, garnering attention from prospective clients seeking top-tier event planning services. Through targeted advertising campaigns and collaborations with industry influencers, we reach a broader audience while maintaining the personalised touch that defines our approach…”
“My work has garnered significant recognition in the media, including features on prominent platforms like Netflix and Bravo TV. One notable project was the planning and design of Kris Fade’s wedding, showcased on Netflix’s ‘Dubai Bling,’ where we brought his vision to life with exquisite details and impeccable execution…”
Tasneem Alibhai, Destination Wedding Planner
C&B: “Your events are incredibly stylish and extravagant; which has been your most memorable project so far, and why?”
TA: “One of my most memorable projects to date was curating a 60th wedding anniversary celebration, a true testament to a lifetime of love and commitment. The event was aptly named “evergreen,” symbolising the enduring nature of the couple’s relationship and the timeless moments they’ve shared…”
“For this milestone occasion, we crafted an experience that seamlessly blended nostalgia with modern elegance. The venue was transformed into a lush garden adorned with evergreen foliage and twinkling lights, creating a magical ambiance reminiscent of the couple’s early years together…”
“Throughout the evening, heartfelt speeches, personalised touches, and surprise performances added layers of emotion and joy to the celebration. From custom-designed floral arrangements to a specially curated menu featuring the couple’s favourite dishes, every detail was thoughtfully planned to honour their journey and create cherished memories for them and their guests…”
“The ‘Evergreen’ event not only celebrated a remarkable milestone but also showcased the power of love and the beauty of lasting relationships. It remains a highlight in my career, reminding me of the meaningful impact that thoughtful event planning can have on people’s lives…”
C&B: “Yes, it’s important to have empathy as well as incredible design talent, organisational skills and to be a ‘people person’. Outside of Dubai, where does your career take you?”
TA: “I’ve had the opportunity to travel to various destinations around the world, including Thailand, Norway, Italy, Montenegro, Cyprus, Turkey, and many others, where I’ve orchestrated stunning events and weddings. Each location offers its own unique charm and cultural richness, allowing me to create unforgettable experiences that reflect the local ambiance while showcasing my clients’ distinct vision. These travel experiences have not only expanded my cultural understanding but also enriched my creativity, inspiring me to continually push the boundaries of event planning excellence…”
“Montenegro, reminiscent of the charm of Lake Como but with a more accessible price point, offers a hidden gem for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and luxury. Its pristine landscapes and intimate settings create an enchanting atmosphere for weddings and events, often exceeding expectations while staying within budget…”
C&B: “Travel is incredibly inspiring and challenging when producing an event. Which countries would you say provide everything a couple could want for their special day?”
TA: “Italy is a captivating destination, with each region offering its own unique charm and character. From the romantic allure of Tuscany to the picturesque landscapes of the Amalfi Coast, the country provides a stunning backdrop for weddings and events, imbued with history and elegance…”
“Istanbul, on the other hand, is a mesmerising blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Stepping into its streets feels like entering a living museum of Ottoman heritage, with breathtaking venues that tell stories of centuries past, adding a touch of grandeur to any event…”
“Each location we’ve had the privilege to plan weddings and events at has its own distinct qualities, adding depth and richness to the experiences we create for our clients. Whether it’s the romance of Italy, the historical allure of Istanbul, or the hidden treasures of Montenegro, we strive to capture the essence of each destination, ensuring unforgettable moments for our clients and their guests…”
Our weddings have graced the pages of prestigious magazines such as People, OK!, Hello, and more, further solidifying our reputation as leaders. Our accomplishments extend beyond television, with several international awards recognising our creativity and excellence in event planning…”
Tasneem Alibhai, Destination Wedding Planner
C&B: “You’ve clearly worked on quite a few dream projects already; is there anything left that would be the ideal for you?”
TA: “As a destination wedding planner, I often receive the question of where I would choose to plan my own wedding if given the chance. Without hesitation, I always mention my deep fascination with the Colosseum. It’s not just a venue; it’s a symbol of history, grandeur, and timeless beauty. The idea of orchestrating a stunning event within the walls of such an iconic monument fills me with excitement and inspiration…”
I’m constantly seeking new ways to innovate and push the boundaries of event planning; I thrive on challenges and enjoy collaborating with clients to bring their wildest dreams to life, whether it’s a themed extravaganza, a destination wedding in a remote paradise, or a corporate event that leaves a lasting impact. My goal is to continue delivering exceptional experiences that surpass expectations and leave a lasting impression on everyone involved. I believe that every event, big or small, is an opportunity to create magic and lasting memories, and I’m excited to see where my journey in the event planning world takes me next…”
Tasneem Alibhai, Destination Wedding Planner
WEBSITE: http://www.TasneemAlibhai.com
