READING TIME: 5 min 10 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/07/2024
UPDATED: 12/07/2024
For Caterina Lostia and her team, wedding planning is not merely a service; it’s a meticulous and heartfelt process that transforms dreams into extraordinary celebrations. “I do not work with pre-packaged services,” Caterina explains. “I tailor each event to the client's specific needs. I refer to myself as a producer rather than a planner, as my approach goes beyond traditional planning. I love to create space and maintain a comprehensive vision for every event I work on.” With over two decades of experience, Caterina leads a team that prioritizes bespoke solutions, elegance, and the art of storytelling in every wedding they craft.
Caterina Lostia’s path to wedding planning was an organic evolution rather than a childhood dream. “I wasn’t born into wedding planning, nor did I dream of becoming a wedding planner,” she says candidly. Her career began in visual merchandising for major fashion companies, where she developed a refined eye for design and aesthetics. Over time, she naturally transitioned into planning private events, a role that would soon ignite her passion. “This new path has become a deep love and passion for me,” she shares, reflecting on the joy she finds in her work.
For Caterina, one of the most rewarding aspects of her job is the opportunity to travel and discover new venues. “I love to travel and discover new venues and hidden places, and I continue to be amazed by the beauty of Italy,” she explains. Welcoming foreign couples who choose Italy as their wedding destination is a particularly special experience for her. “It’s wonderful to welcome foreigners who choose Italy as their wedding destination, offering them elegant, chic, and welcoming settings. My goal is to help them create an unforgettable experience, leaving them with indelible memories they and their guests will cherish.”
Caterina’s approach to wedding design is deeply sensory. “I enjoy playing with colors harmonizing with the unique architecture and the magic of sounds, flavors, and scents,” she says. Her passion for Italian hospitality, with its rich history and unforgettable flavors and aromas, infuses every event she plans. “It is something I take great pride in sharing.”
Caterina’s team is committed to delivering events that are both luxurious and deeply personal. “My philosophy focuses on the entirety of the event, starting with the design and planning and culminating in coordinating the big day,” she says. Every detail, from the choice of venue to the final touches on décor, is guided by the couple’s vision and preferences.
The planning process begins with an introductory call. “We will kick off our collaboration with an introductory call, allowing us to connect and discuss our agency's strengths,” the team explains. This is followed by a mood proposal, rough estimates, and a detailed roadmap for collaboration. “In the ensuing months, we’ll dive deeper into the project, collaborating closely with the vendor to refine every detail,” Caterina notes.
Her team’s role doesn’t stop at logistics—they are fully involved in ensuring the seamless execution of the event. “This journey will include thorough inspections, sharing of drawings and plans, and careful review of estimates, all aimed at ensuring the successful realization of your event. Rest assured, our dedicated design office and accounting department will always be available to analyze and implement design estimates efficiently to bring your vision to life,” she emphasizes.
While her team manages various aspects of planning, Caterina remains hands-on throughout the process. “I try not to take more than 10/12 events yearly,” she explains. “But so much can vary by size and event days.”
Her role extends far beyond coordination. “I am always present at the setup and coordinate the workdays,” she shares. “Working in different parts of Italy, it is challenging to be able to follow more than this number of events well.” This personal involvement guarantees that every wedding carries her signature blend of creativity, passion, and attention to detail.
The team draws inspiration from Italy’s breathtaking beauty, rich traditions, and warm hospitality. “Choose Italy for its elegance and warm hospitality,” Caterina suggests. “This stunning country offers a multitude of venues, with each region showcasing unique characteristics, ensuring that everyone can find their ideal ambiance.”
Caterina’s expertise extends across the most sought-after destinations in Italy, including Lake Como, Tuscany, and Sicily. However, she takes a thoughtful approach when recommending venues. “I do not recommend venues solely based on their popularity; I base my suggestions on the client's tastes and desires,” she explains. “While I strive to introduce new options, there is a consistent demand for the more well-known locations, but the market is standard on the most known ones.”
The team’s concierge-level service ensures no detail is overlooked. “I aim to deliver a luxurious service and fulfill all client requests. From the initial design draft to the realization of the event, clients receive personalized assistance every step of the way,” Caterina explains. Her dedication to excellence is evident in her careful planning and adaptability.
A contingency plan is always part of the process. “I always work with a plan B,” Caterina notes. “I advise clients to consider venues that can accommodate the entire event indoors in case of bad weather. Alternatively, venues with a greenhouse or a tent are also great options. Additionally, due to the potential heat, it's important to evaluate covered spaces to ensure everyone remains comfortable, especially if the venue cannot accommodate all guests.”
Caterina’s team excels at fostering trust and collaboration between couples and vendors. “We manage all contracting and strive to recommend the most suitable vendor for each client and event type,” she explains. “There isn't a single “right” vendor for all clients. While references are certainly important, having trust in the chosen professional is even more essential. Clients are welcome to bring in outside vendors with prior notice, but they must coordinate with our office to ensure project consistency and adherence to the timeline.”
Her guidance extends to budget management, helping couples navigate costs without compromising on quality. “Establishing an operating budget is essential before starting the collaboration,” she advises. “With an indicative budget, reliable estimates can be made, starting with costs for the venue and catering services. From there, the rest of the event can be built step by step within the chosen venue. Confidence in our professionalism and experience is a key factor when working with vendors. Being confident in our ability to secure the best deals is critical to successful event planning. It is also essential to ensure suppliers and bids early, as prices fluctuate yearly, and the best suppliers are often in high demand. Failure to do so may result in missing your desired date.”
The team is meticulous when it comes to event-day coordination. “The timeline is crucial for coordinating the event, and it's essential to be prepared to adjust the schedule in case of unforeseen circumstances,” Caterina says. “I share the timeline from the outset because it clearly outlines how to organize the staff, manage suppliers, and assess the design's feasibility.”
Caterina Lostia’s passion for her craft, combined with her deep connection to Italy, sets her apart as a wedding planner who truly understands the art of creating unforgettable events. Her ability to blend tradition with personal touches ensures that every wedding reflects the couple’s unique story.
In Caterina’s own words: “I’m Italian, and I know very well my country and traditions. Loving it and traditions is the secret to charm.”
For couples seeking a wedding filled with elegance, beauty, and the magic of Italy, Caterina and her team are ready to bring your vision to life with unparalleled expertise and heartfelt dedication.
