The word luxury is used constantly in the wedding industry, but rarely with clarity.

In this episode, Jessie Khaira unpacks what luxury actually means in the context of South Asian weddings and why a higher budget or beautiful aesthetics alone do not guarantee a better experience. Drawing from decades in the industry and real-world examples across weddings, hospitality, and travel, Jessie reframes luxury as something that is felt long before it is seen.

This conversation explores the difference between branding and experience, why systems matter more than price tags, and how true luxury is created behind the scenes through anticipation, consistency, and care. Jessie speaks candidly to planners, vendors, and couples alike about where the industry gets this wrong and what needs to shift.

If you’ve ever felt like something looked impressive on paper but didn’t feel supported in real life, this episode will give you a clearer lens for evaluating services, setting expectations, and defining what an elevated experience actually looks like.

Chapters
00:00 – Why the word “luxury” has lost clarity
02:15 – Why budget and aesthetics do not define luxury
04:45 – Luxury as an emotional experience, not a label
06:30 – A real-world example of luxury versus sales pressure
08:15 – Why systems and anticipation create ease
10:30 – Hospitality as the foundation of luxury
13:15 – What planners often miss behind the scenes
15:30 – Redefining luxury within your own business
18:45 – What couples should understand when they say “luxury wedding”
22:30 – Quiet confidence versus performative luxury
25:00 – Final reflections on what truly makes a wedding feel elevated

Connect with Jessie

Website: www.jessiekhaira.com

Instagram: @jessiekhaira

If you are planning a South Asian wedding, supporting someone who is, or working in this space as a planner, this podcast was created for you. Hit subscribe and join the conversation as we plan with clarity, confidence, and perspective.