‘College days lay the foundation for future’

She is the most sought-after person for your most eventful occasion of life. Meet Shagun Poddar, from the batch of 2022 at Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication (AIMC), now a well-established wedding planner who ensures seamless wedding celebrations by managing logistics, vendors, décor, and budgeting for the grand experience. In a candid interview, she expresses her joyful journey where she converted her passion into her profession.

What are you doing professionally now?

I’m a passionate wedding planner with six years of experience, and I love creating unforgettable celebrations. My ambition is to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity and personalisation in weddings while expanding my portfolio and client base.

How was the faculty at AIMC?

Reflecting on my journey, I feel immensely grateful to my professors and mentors at college. Beyond their dedication to teaching, they brought so much warmth and enthusiasm to the classroom, making learning both enriching and enjoyable. I truly owe my achievements to their support, and I carry their lessons and the wonderful memories with me always.

Share your favourite nostalgia from college days?

One of my favourite memories from college has to be our college fest, ‘We Fest.’ Not to brag, but I was amazing during my year; it was truly the cherry on top of an already unforgettable college journey! Beyond that, I cherished the light-hearted banter with our teachers and the countless moments spent hanging out with friends.

What are the challenges you face as a wedding planner?

As a wedding planner, I face challenges like meeting rising client expectations for unique, Instagram-worthy events while staying within budgets. Sustainability is in demand, but eco-friendly options are often costly. Technology—AI apps, drone shoots, and live streaming — needs smooth integration, which isn’t always easy at venues. Balancing traditions with modern trends, managing last-minute changes, and handling weather uncertainties add pressure. Above all, maintaining work-life balance in this round-the-clock profession remains a constant challenge.

How lucrative is this profession?

It can be a lucrative profession, as couples increasingly invest in personalised, grand, and Instagram-worthy celebrations. With trends like destination weddings, sustainable décor, and tech-driven experiences, demand is high. However, success depends on strong networking, creativity, and management skills. While profits can be substantial, the industry is competitive and requires constant innovation.

Any message for the ones who want to become wedding planners?

My advice to current students is to make the most of every opportunity; get involved in activities, embrace challenges, and never shy away from competition. Build a strong network with friends, peers and mentors, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. Your college days are the foundation of your future, so make them count!