Beyond Timelines: The Real Work Behind Multi-Family Wedding Planning

Weddings with rich traditions don’t just need timelines—they need translators. In this episode, Certified Wedding Planner and Certified Educator, Rima Shah joins CWP Society COO, Krisy Thomas to unpack the real work behind South Asian weddings: navigating multiple families, aligning expectations across generations, and setting boundaries that protect joy without steamrolling culture. From the first consultation to the final site visit, we share scripts, policies, and small shifts in language that build trust with parents and elders who may be new to professional planning.

Rima walks us through the moments where things commonly go sideways—delegated catering oversight, competing design visions, and last-minute ritual requests—and shows how a single-point-of-contact policy, clearly defined roles, and genuine listening turn potential conflict into collaboration. You’ll hear how reframing a single decor element preserved a couple’s one big ask while making a mother proud, and how patient, active listening on a tense call revealed the true concern hiding beneath a list of demands: honoring a simple favor tradition at the right time.

If you’re a wedding planner working with South Asian families—or any event with layered traditions—this conversation gives you practical strategies to reduce friction: involve key family members early, document decisions, adapt to personality types, and connect every choice to what elders value most—respect, hospitality, and meaningful ritual. The result? Events that feel seamless to guests and deeply seen by family.

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