Author Name: Abhya Adlakha
Published Date: 10-Jan-2025
The Resh&Co. Story
In the midst of a global pandemic that redefined celebrations, three visionary women entrepreneurs saw an opportunity to revolutionize the luxury wedding industry.
Founded in 2020 by Sushma Venkatesh, Reshma Ramaiah, and Costanza Giaconi, Resh&Co. has elegantly woven together cultural sensibilities from three continents, orchestrating breathtaking celebrations from the historic temples of Hampi to the romantic castles of Italy. Their portfolio, which includes the recent high-profile wedding of actors Amy Jackson and Ed Westwick at Italy's Rocca Cilento Castle, showcases their ability to craft deeply personal celebrations that honour both tradition and innovation.
What sets Resh&Co. apart is their philosophical approach to luxury weddings. With Sushma helming Asian operations, Reshma directing U.S. ventures, and Costanza bringing European sophistication to the table, the trio has mastered the delicate art of balancing opulence with sustainability, technology with tradition, and grandeur with intimate personalization.
In an exclusive interview with GlobalSpa, Reshma Ramaiah shares insights into the evolving landscape of destination weddings, the power of authentic storytelling, and the future of luxury celebrations.
1. Your company was founded during the pandemic in 2020–what sparked the decision to launch a luxury wedding planning business during such an unprecedented time?
Reshma Ramaiah: The pandemic reshaped the way we think about celebrations and connection. For us, it was a moment of reflection. Weddings are about love and togetherness, and even during the uncertainty of 2020, people yearned to celebrate these milestones. We saw an opportunity to redefine luxury weddings—intimate, meaningful, and personal. Resh&Co. was born to create extraordinary moments even in extraordinary times, blending our creativity with meticulous planning celebrations that felt safe, luxurious, and heartfelt.
2. As co-founders with diverse roles, how do you collaborate and complement each other's strengths?
Reshma Ramaiah: We thrive on our diversity. Sushma oversees Asia, bringing her deep cultural insights and logistical expertise. I lead the U.S. operations with a focus on innovative ideas and incorporating modern trends. Costanza brings European elegance and timeless design sensibilities to the table. Our strengths complement each other seamlessly, and our shared vision ensures that every wedding is a harmonious blend of creativity, precision, and cultural nuance.
3. Can you share a memorable experience from planning Amy Jackson’s and Ed Westwick’s celebrity wedding?
Reshma Ramaiah: Amy and Ed’s wedding was nothing short of a dream. Hosted at the breathtaking Rocca Cilento Castle in Italy, the event was a blend of history, romance, and the warmth of family. From a Capri-inspired welcome party on a private motorboat to an enchanting forest ceremony and a vibrant post-wedding brunch, every detail reflected their love for Italy. It was an extraordinary celebration of culture, connection, and unforgettable moments.
4. Each of you oversees different geographical markets - what's the most fascinating cultural wedding tradition you've encountered in your respective regions?
Reshma Ramaiah: Personally, I love the concept of unity ceremonies, where couples blend two different traditions into one beautiful act—like a sand ceremony or a candle-lighting ritual.
Sushma Venkatesh: Indian weddings are steeped in tradition, but the pheras truly stand out. The act of walking around the fire, making promises of eternal togetherness, is both deeply spiritual and profoundly emotional—a ritual that resonates across cultures.
Costanza Giaconi: In Italy, the tradition of breaking a vase at the end of the wedding is fascinating. The more pieces it shatters into, the happier the marriage is believed to be—a unique touch of superstition and joy.
5. In the age of Pinterest and Instagram, how do you help couples find their authentic wedding vision rather than simply recreating trending styles?
Reshma Ramaiah: We believe a wedding should be a reflection of the couple’s unique story, not a replica of someone else’s. We spend time understanding their personalities, love story, and vision. From there, we craft bespoke experiences that feel uniquely theirs. While trends can inspire, we ensure every element aligns with who they are—whether it’s incorporating a family heirloom into the decor or designing a menu inspired by their first date.
6. What’s your top piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Reshma Ramaiah: Choose a destination that resonates with your love story, but also consider accessibility for your guests. Plan early, hire a local expert, and remember to soak in the experience—it’s not just a day; it’s a journey that you’ll want to remember forever.
7. In your experience, what's the most overlooked aspect of destination wedding planning that couples should pay more attention to?
Reshma Ramaiah: Logistics often get overlooked. Transporting guests, ensuring seamless communication with local vendors, and planning for contingencies like weather changes are crucial. Beyond aesthetics, think about guest comfort—welcome kits with local goodies, clear itineraries, and thoughtful accommodations can make a world of difference.
What are the key factors to consider when choosing a destination wedding venue?
Reshma Ramaiah: Consider the setting, accessibility, and seasonality. The venue should align with your vision and comfortably accommodate your guests. It’s also essential to understand local laws and customs, which can impact everything from ceremonies to catering.
8. How do you incorporate sustainable practices into luxury celebrations without compromising on opulence?
Reshma Ramaiah: Sustainability is about thoughtful choices. We work with local vendors, use eco-friendly decor, and opt for reusable or biodegradable materials wherever possible. For instance, replacing plastic with bamboo, sourcing seasonal flowers, or creating farm-to-table menus adds sustainability without compromising elegance. Luxury today is about being mindful, and it resonates beautifully with modern couples.
9. A wedding you planned that’s close to your heart?
Reshma Ramaiah: A wedding in Hampi stands out. The couple, deeply connected to Indian history and culture, envisioned a sustainable celebration. From mehendi outfits dyed with natural colours to a sangeet by the river with low lights and bamboo decor, every element reflected their ethos. They even served wood-fired food, and their wedding in a UNESCO temple made the event truly one-of-a-kind.
10. What emerging wedding trends are you excited about? A trend you think will be huge in 2025?
Reshma Ramaiah: We’re excited about interactive guest experiences—think live culinary stations, art installations, and immersive entertainment. Sustainability will continue to grow, with eco-conscious decor and zero-waste weddings gaining popularity. For 2025, we foresee tech integration—augmented reality invites, AI-driven personalized guest experiences, and live hologram performances—taking weddings to a futuristic yet personal level.