India has solidified its status as a global hub for luxury destination weddings, thanks to its breathtaking palaces, scenic beaches, and heritage forts that set the perfect stage for extravagant celebrations. As the demand for meticulously curated weddings continues to soar, a select group of wedding planners have distinguished themselves with their expertise, creativity, and flawless execution, ensuring that each celebration is a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. These planners have mastered the art of turning wedding dreams into reality, offering customized experiences that redefine luxury.

The Wedding Company, based in Bengaluru, is leading the charge with its technology-driven approach. By introducing India’s first Instant Wedding Proposal Tool, this platform revolutionizes wedding planning by instantly offering venue suggestions, decor themes, and budget plans. The company was founded with the vision of simplifying the planning process by integrating cutting-edge technology and providing end-to-end services, making dream weddings effortless.

Meraki Weddings, headquartered in Goa, has made a name for itself by curating personalized and bespoke destination weddings. Their expertise lies in crafting intimate yet grand celebrations, paying meticulous attention to detail and ensuring that each couple’s unique vision is brought to life. Their work reflects a blend of artistic design and thoughtful execution, making them a sought-after name in the industry.

Seven Steps Wedding, based in Mumbai, has become synonymous with high-profile and celebrity weddings. Known for orchestrating lavish events for Bollywood stars and business tycoons, they specialize in transforming stunning locations like Venice, Udaipur, and Goa into opulent wedding venues. Their mastery in curating visually breathtaking and flawlessly managed celebrations has made them a top choice among India’s elite.

Wed Gurus, another Mumbai-based planner, seamlessly merges innovation with timeless traditions. Their collaborations with renowned designers like Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla bring a touch of couture and grandeur to every wedding. With an impressive portfolio spanning destinations such as Jodhpur, London, and the Maldives, Wed Gurus ensures that every couple enjoys a wedding experience that is both stylish and unforgettable.

Tamarind Global Weddings has carved a niche in the industry by offering personalized and detail-oriented wedding experiences. Based in Mumbai, their expertise extends across India and international destinations, creating seamless and elegant celebrations tailored to the couple’s dreams. With a strong emphasis on customization and impeccable execution, they transform every wedding into a refined and extraordinary affair.

These five wedding planners have redefined the luxury wedding landscape in India, blending innovation, grandeur, and flawless execution to create unforgettable celebrations. Whether it’s a royal palace wedding, a beachfront ceremony, or an international spectacle, these industry leaders ensure that every couple’s dream wedding becomes a magnificent reality.

Dr. Suborno Bose, a leading figure in hospitality education and the Founder of the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), launched his latest book, Harmonizing Human Touch and AI in Tourism & Hospitality, in Bengaluru. This pioneering book explores the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the hospitality industry, demonstrating how AI enhances guest experiences, operational efficiency, and sustainability.

Addressing the media, Dr. Bose stated, “This book serves as a valuable resource for students, educators, and industry professionals, highlighting how AI can complement, rather than replace, the human element in hospitality.”

Following the book launch, a global roundtable discussion on AI in hospitality brought together industry experts from over 50 countries. The esteemed panel included Professor David Foskett, Chairman of the International Hospitality Council; Chef Neil Rippington, Global Director at IIHM; and UK-based Pastry Chef & Chocolate Consultant, Chef Sarah Hartnett.

Chef Rippington noted, “I wish the 50-plus generation was born 30 years earlier because today’s young professionals are already AI ambassadors.”

Industry leaders praised IIHM’s forward-thinking AI initiatives. Chef Ranveer Brar commented, “AI at IIHM addresses a much larger workforce challenge. While the industry once feared AI would replace jobs, we now realize it enhances skills and transforms professions.”

Padmashri Chef Sanjeev Kapoor added, “Technology is a tool—it doesn’t have a soul. Hospitality professionals must bring the soul while using technology as a support system.”

Professor David Foskett emphasized, “AI doesn’t eliminate jobs; it enables professionals to deliver better, more personalized guest experiences. IIHM is setting an example by balancing technology and the human touch.”

Dr. Bose reinforced this sentiment, stating, “AI is not just about technology—it’s about humanity. This book underscores the importance of balancing technological advancements with the human touch in hospitality.”

The book is structured in bite-sized sections, making it an engaging and practical resource for students, educators, and professionals in the hospitality industry.

NamAIste IIHM HospitalityGPT – A Game-Changer

Dr. Bose also announced a groundbreaking innovation set to revolutionize the industry—the launch of NamAIste, IIHM HospitalityGPT, the world’s first generative AI-powered knowledge engine for the hospitality sector.

“This is not just an innovation—it’s the future of hospitality intelligence, and IIHM is leading the way,” Dr. Bose stated. “With NamAIste, IIHM HospitalityGPT, we take a historic step forward.”

Designed to provide students, faculty, and hospitality professionals with real-time access to insights, trends, and best practices, NamAIste aims to enhance learning and operational excellence. Dr. Bose highlighted its objectives: “This AI-powered platform will equip the hospitality industry with next-generation intelligence, ensuring professionals remain at the forefront of innovation.”

With these pioneering initiatives, IIHM continues to shape the future of hospitality education, embracing AI to redefine industry standards while preserving the essential human touch.

As the Union Budget 2025 concludes with major announcements across various industries, key figures from India's Food and Beverage sector share their reactions on the budget's impact on their businesses and the industry at large.

Nidhi Singh, Co-Founder, Samosa Singh

"A Prospect for Inclusivity and Sustainable Growth"

The budget takes a progressive stance in promoting sustainability and growth in multiple industries, including the food and beverage sector. Investments in education, digital literacy, and skill development will foster a resilient workforce ready to meet evolving industry demands. Strengthened supply chains, streamlined regulations, and support for rural and agricultural development will benefit businesses reliant on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

A significant move toward financial inclusion and gender equality is the provision of tax exemptions and incentives for new businesses, particularly those led by female entrepreneurs. These initiatives lay the groundwork for long-term resilience and industry expansion. If executed effectively, the budget serves as a roadmap for a more dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive economy, positioning the F&B sector for enduring success.

Simranjeet Singh, Director, CYK Hospitalities

"Transformative Financial Reforms for the F&B and Hospitality Sectors"

The Union Budget 2025 introduces substantial financial reforms set to reshape F&B consultancy and hospitality businesses. The expansion of credit guarantee coverage will offer better financial support to startups and small enterprises, minimizing risks while fostering innovation. Additionally, financial institutions are set to play a more significant role in funding early ventures, enabling rapid scaling within the food and hospitality sectors.

A dedicated startup credit ecosystem is a game changer, particularly for first-time women entrepreneurs and businesses from SC and backward communities, increasing participation in the industry. Simplified credit access—especially with initiatives like the ₹2 crore loan scheme for women entrepreneurs—will encourage new ventures and enhance inclusivity.

The sector anticipates accelerated growth through supply chain advancements, regional cuisine promotion, and agricultural sector development. These measures are expected to propel the F&B space into a new era of expansion and sustainability.

Ankit Chona, Founder, Hocco Ice Creams

"Empowering Growth in the F&B Sector"

The Union Budget 2025 is poised to boost the F&B industry by increasing middle-class disposable income, thereby driving demand for diverse and premium food options. The establishment of the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM) in Bihar is a strategic move to equip the state's youth with world-class education and skills in food technology and entrepreneurship.

Furthermore, the reduction in customs duty on essential F&B inputs will lower production costs, benefiting businesses of all sizes. These measures position the industry for sustainable growth while making high-quality food more accessible to consumers.