Partying in Style with “Anna & I”
The overall experience must be coherent: This includes not only the right must but also perfectly coordinated catering - here from the patisserie specialist @giselle_pastrychef
Together with your business partner Blaga Miteva, you advise brands and plan events around Haute Couture Fashion - how did this niche positioning come about?
Blaga and I have always had an affinity for beauty and style. I managed my very own luxury boutique years ago before I became Sales Director for Emilia Wickstead and other senior members of the Dior family. I have been surrounded by luxury throughout my whole life. Blaga’s background is also tightly intertwined with the fashion industry. We both met through our work with haute couture brand Ralph & Russo and this is how the luminous tale of ‘‘Anna and I Luxury Lifestyle’’ began.
Apart from the champagne - what makes for a successful party?
Although champagne is an inevitable part of a party, it is definitely not the only ingredient necessary for its success. It’s important to put a lot of consideration into how it will feel for someone entering your event or party. Beyond having an illustrious guest list, the ambiance is very important when it comes to making guests feel comfortable. A personal approach to each guest is vital and making sure you pay enough attention to each guest, is a must.
What trends do you see evolving in this sector - are there any special ower arrangements, drinks, or decorations that are particularly trendy at the moment?
When it comes to flowers we have observed an interesting development. For weddings, more and more couples are choosing florists that use local, seasonal arrangements, wildflowers, or dried flowers. Trends have changed in terms of decoration as well. Clients want a more tailored look and approach to their wedding. Something that feels fresh and ‘‘them’’, as opposed to a more typical wedding look. Unique lighting has also become a key focus. As for drinks, it depends on the season but a good champagne or post-ceremony Aperol spritz never disappoints. A good party goes hand in hand with brilliant music vibes and therefore, the emphasis on a good DJ remains.
What special wishes have you already fulfilled for your clients?
When we talk about couture, we talk about dreams and about breathtaking creations, so every request is special. Customizing and incorporating the initials of your beloved in the embroidery of the dress, or designing an extravagant head-piece is also very popular at the moment.
What was the most unusual event you have ever been to?
Oh, there have been many. Some of the weddings continue for days and they are all themed and you are being transported into a world of magic and sensation. I cannot really name one in particular, but a recent, beautiful event I’ve attended was the “Tweed de Chanel” event during Haute Couture Fashion Week in Paris.
Especially in economically challenging times, fashion industry events sometimes appear very decadent. Why is a certain opulence needed, especially in di cult years?
I don’t think opulence is the right word to describe couture. Haute couture is the highest form of art when it comes to luxury fashion. In fact, we believe couture fulfills the demand for ethical conscience because one piece of clothing of high quality and style has much longer longevity in contrast to seasonal merchandise.
Why does fashion need such events?
Fashion is art. Fashion promotes diversity through the clothes we wear. Fashion is about individuality. In fact, fashion is much more than just clothing as well. That’s why we need these events to happen in order to bestow the public with a platform on which to express themselves.
The exclusive events take place in metropolises such as Qatar, Paris, Los Angeles, or Moscow - do the different cities also celebrate differently?
When it comes to celebrations, we must say that all nations have the same ability for joy and great pleasure. We sometimes see distinctive patterns and similarities, mostly due to cultural differences and similarities, but of course, it all comes down to the atmosphere, therefore we all celebrate “the same”.
How much talk of business is appropriate on such an illustrious evening?
Nowadays, people are much more open-minded. Hence, networking is always welcome if the situation allows it.
Even the most beautiful and successful evening comes to an end - what do you think about the transience of your work?
We believe the beauty of these extraordinary evenings is hidden exactly in the knowledge that these hours won’t last forever. This is why we create memories and memories, are what stays with us forever.
Photos: Anna & I
