For me, the main focus is always on enhancing the guest experience. Every moment – from the time guests arrive at our event to the moment they leave – should be dedicated to creating unforgettable memories…”
JoAnn Gregoli, Founder, Elegant Occasions
JoAnn Gregoli is the founder of Elegant Occasions, a renowned event planning company based in New York City. She is recognised for her creative vision and meticulous attention to detail, which have established her as a leading wedding and event planner both nationally and internationally. JoAnn is known for her personalised approach, creating unique and unforgettable celebrations tailored to each client’s vision. Her expertise and dedication have earned her numerous industry accolades and a reputation as an innovator in the world of luxury events. Here we discuss winter white weddings and what makes her home city the place to be over Christmas and New Year:
C&B: “JoAnn, you truly embody the spirit of a glamorous New York ‘go-getter’. In your opinion, what unique qualities make the city the perfect backdrop for luxury winter weddings and holiday events?”
JG: “New York City during the holiday season is magical and iconic. From the Rockefeller Christmas tree to the skating rink and holiday window displays, it’s the most glorious time of the year in New York City!”
We encourage our clients to begin planning their holiday weddings at least 18 months in advance. This early start ensures greater flexibility and a higher chance of securing unique and sought-after venues for their celebration.…”
JoAnnn Gregoli, Founder, Elegant Occasions
C&B: “Magical is the word! How do you incorporate festive elements into the Christmas and New Year’s Eve dinners that you plan?”
JG: “For Christmas, we create a festive atmosphere by placing personalised holiday ornaments at each place setting, using luxurious velvet linens in rich hues, and adding gold accents to capture the spirit of the season. For New Year’s celebrations, the highlight is a dramatic midnight cake cutting – sealed with a kiss and surrounded by confetti cannons erupting throughout the room, making the moment truly unforgettable…”
C&B: “What design themes are you seeing for holiday season wedding décor this year?”
JG: “Dramatic draping and immersive decor – think fabric cascading from ceilings, layered backdrops, and using all surfaces ie floors, walls, ceilings, as part of the design accented by twinkle lights. Contrast palettes – mixing cool, icy tones ie baby blue, silver, with warm elements ie gold, deep greens, to create depth and texture. Brocades and velvets for table linens. For New Year’s Eve, black with gold or black with rich jewel tones is popular – elegant but dramatic!”
A holiday wedding isn’t simply a date on the calendar – it’s a moment where love embraces the magic of the season. Plan thoughtfully, celebrate boldly, and remember that every twinkle light and toast is magnified by the joy of the holidays, shining a special light on your celebration. Remember, at its heart, it’s a celebration of your love with family and friends…”
JoAnn Gregoli, Founder, Elegant Occasions
C&B: “Of all the venues in NYC, which are the most unique for winter weddings and holiday parties?”
JG: “The most unique venue I love is high atop the Freedom Tower, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline. This stunning location provides a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop for any event, especially as guests can marvel at the sweeping panoramic scenery from every angle. Celebrating in such an iconic space adds an extra layer of sophistication and excitement, making every occasion truly memorable…”
C&B: “What are the biggest logistical challenges of hosting an event in NYC during the holidays?”
JG: “Weather! For colder climates, we plan for heating, covered walkways, or indoor-outdoor flexibility. Snow is a possibility, so we are always sure to watch the weather and bring in vendors a day prior if necessary…”
My favourite elements for holiday celebrations include suspended installations, like chandeliers of greenery and orchids dripping from above; floral runner waterfalls that cascade down the front of head tables or bars; and foliage-covered entrances that transform doorways or tent entries into immersive tunnels of evergreen and candlelight. I also love mixing elements – pairing florals with crystal, mirrored plexi, feathers, or glass baubles to add extra dimension. And for a truly memorable touch, introducing a signature scent by infusing arrangements with pine, citrus, or white tea notes – or even bringing in a scent machine – to elevate the sensory experience…”
JoAnn Gregoli, Founder, Elegant Occasions
C&B: “What are the current ‘must-have’ entertainment trends for a New Year’s Eve wedding or party?”
JG: “A timed DJ-orchestration that ramps up the energy leading into the countdown is a must. The hybrid DJ is trending – a mix of live performers and DJ. As the evening progresses, or post-midnight, guests switch to wireless headphones and continue dancing to a DJ. This allows for multiple genres to run simultaneously and gives a fun, unexpected twist guests love!”
Signature holiday drinks such as mulled wine, spiced ciders, eggnog-inspired cocktails, and festive punches are perfect. Hot beverage bars – hot chocolate, spiced lattes, warm toddies -are especially wonderful for outdoor or colder venues. Holiday-themed favours such as mini ornaments, scented candles, small jars of jam or preserves, or custom cookies wrapped like gifts help everyone feel the spirit…”
JoAnn Gregoli, Founder, Elegant Occasions
C&B: “What creative ideas do you have for ensuring each festive celebration ends on a memorable and uplifting note?”
JG: “We often install warm takeaway stations featuring offerings such as hot pretzels, mini sliders, or cider donuts, elegantly boxed for convenience – they add a thoughtful touch. Hosts might also consider incorporating scent bars or custom candle stations, allowing guests to blend their own unique fragrances to take home. To culminate the experience in a luxurious manner, envision hanging dessert ‘clouds’ or aerial champagne pours as a splendid finale to the event…”
CONTACT: http://www.elegantoccasionsbyjoanngregoli.com
