She acknowledges that she has no ambition to create her own brand, instead finding fulfillment in supporting Michelle’s vision and the company’s legacy. This mindset resonates with others in the industry who similarly prefer excelling in roles where they can support rather than lead.

Katherine’s responsibilities include handling vendor relationships, contract negotiations, floor plans, and overall event logistics. Her job involves close communication with clients, acting as a liaison between them and the company. She emphasizes the intimate nature of these relationships, explaining that vendors often communicate through her to protect both parties’ interests. She reiterates that clients trust her team to anticipate their needs and answer questions confidently, highlighting the importance of knowledge, foresight, and communication in her role. 

Next, Katherine recounts her journey into the luxury wedding industry. A theater graduate with limited options, she initially worked as an assistant in New York City while exploring her career interests. With advice from a friend, she decided against formal event planning programs, opting instead to gain hands-on experience by working for someone she admired. Katherine conducted thorough research, identified Michelle Rago as her top choice, and persistently reached out through cold calls and emails. Her persistence paid off when Michelle finally agreed to meet with her, leading to an opportunity to join the team. She encourages others to research and target their ambitions deliberately during job searches, as this authenticity resonates with potential employers.

Katherine stresses that working in the luxury event industry requires genuine passion. It is a demanding field that calls for dedication and a willingness to navigate the complexities of serving high-end clientele. Without a love for the work and the challenges it brings, sustaining a career in this space is unlikely. Katherine discusses the importance of anticipation in her role, not just for clients but also for Michelle and the entire team. Her ability to predict questions or issues and provide immediate solutions is key to maintaining efficiency. Similarly, humor and levity are essential tools in Katherine’s approach to managing stress and fostering trust within her team and with vendors. She believes that maintaining a positive atmosphere is critical, especially during high-stakes events like weddings and luxury celebrations. 

Then, Katherine highlights the extensive preparation and rehearsal that go into luxury event planning. Walkthroughs with key vendors, like photographers and videographers, are non-negotiable. These rehearsals allow the team to identify and resolve potential issues before the event. She emphasizes the importance of creating detailed timelines and communicating them clearly with clients to avoid surprises on the event day. The team works closely with clients to ensure their vision is fully realized. The discussion shifts to the unique expectations of luxury clients, who have experienced the best material goods and services money can buy. What they truly value, however, is the feeling of being understood, anticipation of their needs, and the expertise to provide flawless execution.

The discussion turns to the qualities of a good partner from the perspective of a planner, focusing particularly on photographers, videographers, and other creative vendors. Key criteria include professional communication and well-defined offerings, confidence backed by experience and knowledge of the typical demands of weddings. Finally, Catherine highlights the team dynamic within the luxury wedding industry, where trust and mutual respect are paramount. She also highlights the importance of nurturing new talent, advocating for opportunities that allow emerging professionals to thrive.

Timestamps:

0:30 – Introduction of today’s episode and guest, Katherine Gray. 

1:00 – Katherine’s Role and Perspective at Michelle Rago Destinations.  

3:38 – A Day in the Life of a Senior Event Producer. 

6:23 – Encouraging Open Communication with Vendors. 

8:29 – Katherine’s Journey to Michelle Rago Destinations. 

13:13 – The Demands of the Luxury Event Industry. 

17:22 – Humor, Trust, and Vendor Relationships. 

22:19 – Preparation and Rehearsal for Seamless Execution. 

28:06 – Attention to Detail: What Sets Luxury Apart. 

33:24 – The Collaborative Nature of Event Execution.

36:06 – What Makes a Good Collaborative Partner?  

43:07 – Professionalism and Confidence in Presentation.

Bio:

Michelle Rago and her team have produced and designed events as far-flung as New Delhi and the Cote d’Azur and, of course, from coast to coast on the continental United States.

Team Rago will oversee and execute every aspect of your event to not only ensure it unfolds smoothly, but to allow you to be carefree and fully engaged in hosting your own party.

As the newest member of Michelle Rago Destinations, Katherine’s diverse background in everything from improv theater to catering brings a unique set of skills to the team. With a previous position in interior design for a luxury boutique hotel her attention to design details create one of a kind atmospheres for events of all sizes. Katherine’s can do attitude and ability to adapt to all situations puts clients at ease during the planning process. Her background in hype dancing doesn’t hurt during the events either.

Learn more about Michelle Rago Destinations here, and on Instagram at here.