Planning a wedding is more than logistics. My goal has always been to protect couples’ energy, honour their story, and create something that feels deeply human. Wherever they are in the world, they deserve to enjoy their love without chaos, and that’s what I’m here for…”
Akilah Atiba-Davies, With Akilah & Co.
Akilah Atiba-Davies is a wedding planner based in London, renowned for her work across the UK and internationally, with a particular focus on South Africa. Her guiding philosophy emphasises the importance of intention in design, believing that the concept of beauty varies for each individual, leading her to concentrate on storytelling through intricate details. This includes elements that evoke comfort, sounds that promote tranquility, and layouts that foster connection among guests. Her ethos can be succinctly articulated: while the aesthetic of the day should be visually stunning, the overall experience must also be exhilarating. Here we discuss Akilah’s projects and philosophy…
C&B: “Akilah, what first inspired you to become a wedding planner?”
AAD: “I started With Akilah & Co because I saw how easily calm and enthusiasm can get lost in the noise of wedding planning. Couples were drowning in checklists and Pinterest boards, forgetting the why behind it all – their future together, a foundation of love, an undeniable connection, and an unforgettable celebration. I wanted to bring calm back into the process and prove that structure and serenity can coexist. Planning a wedding shouldn’t feel like surviving it, it should feel like living it, intentionally…”
This year, I’ve expanded to include Cape Town and Durban elopements and destination celebrations, blending global influence with local heart. Wherever love takes you, we’ll meet you there, with a calm approach that focuses on you…”
Akilah Atiba-Davies, With Akilah & Co.
C&B: “How do you incorporate the unique cultural elements of each of the varied locations into your wedding designs?”
AAD: “Culture is the heartbeat of every celebration. I take time to understand the couple’s heritage, values, and what feels sacred to them. Then we weave that into the design through music, rituals, food, and visual storytelling. Whether it’s incorporating ancestral traditions or fusing modern and traditional elements, I always want couples to feel seen and celebrated for who they are…”
For international couples, clarity and communication are everything. I offer structured timelines, transparent budgeting tools, and bi-monthly planning calls, all designed to bridge the distance. My team and I also handle local logistics and supplier vetting so clients can focus on the excitement, not the admin. It’s about building trust across time zones and making the process feel calm, even from miles away…”
Akilah Atiba-Davies, With Akilah & Co.
C&B: “Of all the amazing weddings you have planned, which would you say are the most memorable?”
AAD: “One that always stands out is a London micro wedding where the couple prayed together before the ceremony. It was quiet, powerful, and completely theirs. Recently, I planned a family celebration in Cape Town with over 80 guests. Cape Town is a destination full of heart and history for me. Balancing cultural expectations, travel logistics, and family dynamics was a challenge, however seeing everyone come together against that backdrop was unforgettable…”
C&B: “How do you handle logistical challenges, such as venue selection and vendor coordination?”
AAD: “With systems and softness. We start by aligning on the couple’s priorities, atmosphere, guest experience and flow. We then build a timeline that honours those. I manage every supplier relationship personally or through my associate planners, ensuring that information is clear and consistent. My background in coordination means we anticipate issues long before they appear. Calm logistics equal joyful memories…”
I begin every planning process with deep listening. I ask couples what makes them feel most like themselves. From there, we design a day that reflects their rhythm, not someone else’s template. It’s never about trends; it’s about truth. No two love stories are the same, so no two weddings should be either…”
Akilah Atiba-Davies, With Akilah & Co.
C&B: “What themes do you see emerging in the luxury wedding sector for 2026?”
AAD: “Intentional minimalism is on the rise, smaller guest lists, deeper meaning. Couples are prioritising calm design, cultural storytelling, and sustainability over extravagance. I also see a growing appreciation for experience-led weddings: spaces that encourage conversation, reflection, and connection instead of showcase. It’s a beautiful shift…”
Florals and décor set the emotional tone, they’re the visual “wow” of the day. I work with florists who understand that balance: how scent, texture, and structure create feeling. For me, décor isn’t about opulence, it’s about atmosphere. The right detail can ground a space and make it feel like home…”
Akilah Atiba-Davies, With Akilah & Co.
C&B: “London has a fantastic range of venues and locations suitable for weddings – which are your favourites?”
AAD: “Central London is unmatched for variety and energy. From private dining rooms and elegant ballrooms to rooftops, galleries, and iconic parks, it offers endless options. It’s especially well suited to elopements and intimate weddings, with the buzz of the city and beautiful photo locations right on your doorstep. South London offers incredible versatility. You’ll find everything from grand historic ballrooms to converted warehouses, theatres, and character-filled spaces. Add in the green parks and beautiful city views, and it works perfectly for both statement celebrations and more relaxed, intimate weddings. East London is ideal for couples who want something less traditional. The warehouse venues and creative spaces lend themselves to fun, relaxed weddings with a strong atmosphere and a real party feel. It’s perfect if you’re drawn to a more urban, club-style celebration…”
C&B: “And in South Africa?”
AAD: “Durban is all about space, light, and landscape. Private homes, open land, and sweeping views create a sense of ease and privacy that feels incredibly special. It’s ideal for couples who want a celebration that feels relaxed, personal, and connected to nature. Cape Town is an eloper’s dream. The landscape is dramatic and varied, with incredibleviews, outdoor living, and venues that blend seamlessly into their surroundings. It’s perfect for couples drawn to nature, movement, and a sense of adventure…”
C&B: “Final question, Akilah: the wedding business is highly competitive and demanding, what are you most proud of regarding your success in this area?”
AAD: “Building a business rooted in calm and compassion. I’ve created something that gives couples peace and gives my team purpose. From being recognised by top wedding publications to mentoring new coordinators, I’m proud of the community we’ve built, one that reflects inclusion, trust, and excellence. Finally, one that allows me to serve God through serving couples I love…”
CONTACT: http://www.withakilahandco.com
