Brooke Keegan: It's a Party! But it's Still a Business
The Business of Luxury Weddings
Release Date: 07/01/2024
Samkoma: How to Build a Brand People, Feel, Follow and Never Forget
The Business of Luxury Weddings
In this episode, James and Otto sit down with the creative minds behind Samkoma—a collective that’s redefining what it means to build a brand in the luxury event world. From their roots in nightlife and cultural production to curating experiences for global fashion houses and elite weddings, Samkoma brings an entirely different energy to the table. Josiah and Otto open up about the intentionality behind every decision—the lighting, the sound, the scent, the pacing—and how those details create more than a mood… they create memory. You’ll hear what makes a brand feel unforgettable,...
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Kimberley Curtin: The Quiet Power of Trust, Timing, and Unshakable Calm
The Business of Luxury Weddings
In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Kimberley Curtin, Senior Event Producer at JZ Events, for a rare and generous conversation about what it really takes to operate at the highest level of luxury event planning. As the right hand to Jennifer Zabinski—one of the most sought-after planners in the world—Kimberley brings an extraordinary combination of calm precision, deep intuition, and flawless execution to every wedding she touches. They talk about the quiet power of being a number two, how to lead from behind without needing credit, and why trust is the most valuable...
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Kayley Watson: The Art of Connection, Culture, and Celebrations at Belmond
The Business of Luxury Weddings
In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Kayley Watson—Account Director of Celebrations at Belmond—for a journey through the soul of luxury hospitality. With her signature blend of warmth, wit, and unshakable professionalism, Kayley pulls back the curtain on what truly sets Belmond apart: curated experiences rooted in place, culture, and human connection. From designing unforgettable moments across Belmond’s legendary global portfolio to nurturing the kind of planner partnerships that last a lifetime, Kayley shares what it means to lead with generosity, curiosity, and joy. This...
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Amrit Dhillon-Bains: On Belonging, Boundaries, and Becoming Who You Were Meant to Be
The Business of Luxury Weddings
In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Amrit Dhillon-Bains—founder of Anais Events—for a conversation that goes beyond weddings and deep into identity, resilience, and leadership. Known for her powerful presence and soulfully intentional celebrations, Amrit shares what it’s meant to build a globally recognized brand while holding true to her values. From navigating cultural expectations to setting healthy boundaries in a demanding industry, she reflects on how her own journey has shaped the way she leads, serves clients, and shows up in her work. She also talks candidly about the...
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Emily Coyne: The Power of Clear Standards, Quiet Confidence, and Luxury that Feels Personal
The Business of Luxury Weddings
In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Emily Coyne—creative director, founder, and force behind Emily Coyne Events—for a masterclass in elegance, leadership, and intentionality. Known for her elevated simplicity and seamless execution, Emily shares how her team creates weddings that feel effortless, emotionally resonant, and deeply personal—without sacrificing operational precision. From her background in finance to building a high-performing team grounded in trust and clarity, she unpacks the systems, rituals, and values that drive her world-class client experience. She also...
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Julian Leaver: Why Good Taste Isn’t Enough—It’s How You Make People Feel
The Business of Luxury Weddings
In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Julian Leaver, the celebrated event planner of Julian Leaver Events, former hotelier, and master of gracious hosting, for a conversation that redefines what luxury really means. Julian shares why beautiful design is only the beginning—and how emotional intelligence, anticipation, and warmth create the kind of experiences that guests never forget. With roots in Southern hospitality and a sharp understanding of client psychology, Julian unpacks how he makes people feel cared for at every turn—without ego, noise, or theatrics. He talks about...
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In the Margins: Strength Doesn't Need to Be Loud — with Michelle Rago
The Business of Luxury Weddings
In this In the Margins episode, we step into a quiet but powerful moment with Michelle Rago, one of the most respected voices in luxury event production. Michelle opens up about how her childhood shaped her ability to stay grounded under pressure—and how that emotional clarity has become a cornerstone of her leadership. She shares why she no longer feels the need to prove herself, what she looks for in creative collaborators, and how true confidence often arrives quietly, without the need for noise or performance. This conversation is a reminder that you don’t have to be the loudest in the...
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Beth Helmstetter: Designing With Heart—Luxury Hospitality as a Love Language
The Business of Luxury Weddings
In this episode, James and Otto sit down with renowned planner and designer, , for a masterclass in emotionally intelligent event design. Known for her deeply intentional, soulfully refined approach to luxury weddings, Beth shares how she’s built a brand rooted not just in aesthetics—but in hospitality, heart, and human connection. From working with ultra-high-net-worth clients to managing teams across multiple ventures (including her gifting company and boutique hotel), Beth reveals how she brings a sense of calm leadership to every space she enters. She shares her...
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Chris Jespersen: Big Swings, Bold Moves & The Hidden Cost of Playing Small
The Business of Luxury Weddings
What does it really take to thrive in the luxury wedding world—not just creatively, but personally? In this episode, we sit down with Chris Jespersen of Storybox Cinema to unpack the risks, identity shifts, and real growth that come with building a creative life in a high-stakes industry. Chris shares the wild story behind one of his earliest career-defining moments (spoiler: it involved a one-way international flight, no passport, and a suitcase full of dreams), how dancing became a metaphor for his approach to business, and why authenticity is still the rarest luxury. Whether you’re a...
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In the Margins: These Moments Aren’t for Us — With A Day in May
The Business of Luxury Weddings
What if success in luxury wasn’t about being seen—but about helping others feel seen? In this intimate In the Margins episode, Alicia Fritz—founder of —pulls back the curtain on what it really means to serve at the highest level. From honoring generational legacy to staying grounded in the presence of extraordinary wealth, Alicia shares how her small-town values built a brand trusted by some of the world’s most private families. She reminds us: these moments aren’t for us. They’re for the families we serve—and the love they’re trying to preserve. If you’ve ever questioned...
info_outlineLuxury weddings involve so many great things like travel, amazing experiences and glamorous events. Because all these facets are so fun and exciting, it’s easy to fall into the trap of treating the job like a hobby.
In order to build something that sustains you, you have to treat it like a business. Yes, the job is fun, but it’s also our livelihood so we have to handle it accordingly. In an industry where the barrier gets lower everyday, the people who have staying power are the ones who think like CEOs, and build solid structures that support what we do.
How did Brooke Keegan come to this realization and what did she change after it dawned on her? How did she shift from flat fee to percentage-based pricing?
What other structures did she put in place to truly start treating it like a business? In this episode, Brooke talks about the epiphany that changed her business, and what it took to get to where she is today.
Want a clear and comprehensive roadmap on how to succeed in the luxury wedding market? Check out the Business of Luxury Weddings course. You’ll learn the entire business model and thought process - so you can sign consistent 5-figure contracts, build a powerful network of the right people, and travel to iconic destinations. Learn more and join the waitlist at SageJourney.co.
Guest Bio
Brooke has more than 21 years of experience designing, planning, and producing spectacular events for some of the world’s most ambitious and exacting clients. Named a top wedding planner by Harper’s Bazaar, she has established a reputation of excellence and consistency for producing unique, beautiful, and innovative events that leave a lasting impression. With her outstanding organizational skills and love of design, she has established a reputation of excellence in event management, flawless execution and visually stunning events. Brooke’s clients can trust with confidence that they will experience an exceptional planning process whilst exceeding their expectations. She has solid relationships with premier creative partners both nationally and internationally, ensuring that anyone she refers to is at the top of their respected field. Her past events are testaments of the quality, detail and experience that make her successful. A Division 1 volleyball player at San Diego State University, Brooke graduated with dual degrees in Marketing and Management. Prior to running her own business, she pursued a professional career in the restaurant and hospitality industry, a combination that gives her an edge when producing top-notch events for world-class clients. For more information go to https://brookekeegan.com/ and follow @brookekeegan.