READING TIME: 4 min 6 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 02/26/2026
For Dana Mancini, wedding planning was never simply a career choice — it was an extension of a way of life.
“Saluti was born from the soul of a vibrant Italian upbringing, where heritage, craftsmanship, and the art of gathering formed the rhythm of everyday life.”
Her family’s roots were deeply intertwined with hospitality, craftsmanship, and creative expression. On one side, generations of pastry chefs, bakers, and cooks ran a beloved Italian bakery. On the other, artists, builders, and teachers shaped spaces and traditions grounded in beauty and care.
“In a quaint village in Italy called Castelli, we have relatives who are artists, hand-painting ceramics in the traditional majolica style.”
Growing up surrounded by thoughtful hosting and sensory detail left a lasting impression. Dana became attuned to the quiet elements that transform a space into an experience.
“Whenever we hosted events, I took it upon myself to ensure that the lights were dimmed just right, napkins were folded sharply, chairs were aligned, candles flickered softly, foliage were foraged, and music played in the background—often Spanish guitar.”
These early rituals planted the foundation for what would eventually become Saluti Wedding Planning & Design — a brand rooted in atmosphere, intention, and emotional resonance.
Before weddings, Dana built her career in fashion — an industry that sharpened her eye for detail, composition, and storytelling.
But eight years ago, everything shifted.
“Eight years ago, I followed a pull I could no longer ignore. I left my career in fashion to pursue wedding design, inspired by the magic of my own celebration—a day guests described as one of the most enchanting they had ever experienced.”
What began as encouragement from loved ones soon became clarity. While traveling through southern Italy, the vision crystallized.
“The following summer, while wandering through the colourful and cobblestone streets of Sorrento, everything crystallized. I knew my work needed to reflect the essence of my heritage: the beauty of hosting, the intimacy of shared tables, the romance woven into everyday rituals.”
Then came the moment that would define the brand’s identity.
“I envisioned a business name that embodied the beauty of celebration, and that's when I spotted it—a limoncello bottle adorned with the simple yet universally understood word of joy, connection and celebration: Saluti.”
It was more than a name. It was a philosophy.
With eight years of wedding planning experience and a lifelong foundation in hospitality, Dana approaches every celebration with intention and emotional depth.
I am in my eighth year of wedding planning, with a background in fashion and a lifelong foundation in hospitality.
At the heart of Saluti lies a simple but powerful belief.
“Saluti is rooted in the art of hospitality and the belief that celebrations should feel deeply personal, thoughtful, and beautifully lived-in.”
Rather than focusing solely on aesthetics, Dana prioritizes how a wedding feels — for both the couple and their guests.
“Our philosophy centers on caring for people first—creating experiences that feel effortless for our couples and unforgettable for their guests.”
This perspective shapes every detail, from design to guest experience.
“We design and plan with intention, drawing inspiration from culture, travel, and timeless etiquette, while guiding each celebration with calm expertise and heart.”
Dana’s process begins with one essential element: listening.
“I begin by listening—truly understanding my clients’ vision, priorities, and how they want their celebration to feel.”
This collaborative approach allows her to translate ideas into experiences that reflect each couple authentically.
“From there, I guide the process with clarity and intention, translating their ideas into a thoughtful plan while offering expertise where it matters most.”
Saluti offers full-service planning, design management, and event coordination, allowing couples to feel fully supported throughout the entire journey.
I offer full-service planning, design management, and event coordination.
Her work extends beyond logistics into emotional stewardship — helping couples remain grounded in their vision, even amid external pressures.
“The biggest challenge is navigating situations where there are too many voices involved. My role becomes helping them reconnect with what truly feels right for them.”
Dana’s creative spirit is deeply connected to place, particularly the Mediterranean — where culture, architecture, and atmosphere intertwine effortlessly.
Some of her most meaningful work has taken her abroad.
“Some of my most memorable weddings have been in Italy and Greece—true bucket-list destinations that I was deeply excited to bring to life.”
Collaborating with creative partners internationally offers fresh perspective and creative energy.
“Collaborating with creative partners overseas was both inspiring and energizing, offering a fresh perspective and a beautiful exchange of ideas.”
Her dream destinations remain tied to the landscapes that shaped her vision.
“I’m endlessly drawn to the Mediterranean—the romance, the light, the architecture, the history, the texture of it all.”
“Italy, Spain, Greece, and the South of France feel timeless to me; places where history, beauty, art, and celebration naturally intertwine.”
Dana believes thoughtful planning begins with clarity.
“Staying on budget begins with clarity and intention. I help couples define their overall investment early, then prioritize what truly matters to them.”
Her advice to couples centers on presence and intentionality.
“Savor the engagement and resist the urge to rush. Wedding planning should feel enjoyable and intentional.”
Choosing the right planner, she emphasizes, is essential.
“Choose a planner whose portfolio reflects your style and feels aligned with who you are as a couple.”
Her own journey reinforces the importance of curiosity, culture, and human connection.
If design is your focus, travel before you create. Become cultured in the art of celebration.
“But above all, hospitality comes first—how guests are cared for, how moments are held.”
Through Saluti, Dana Mancini brings together heritage, hospitality, and thoughtful design to create celebrations defined by meaning.
Her work is shaped by memory, culture, and human connection.
By candlelight and shared tables.
By intention and emotion.
Each wedding becomes more than an event.
It becomes a living expression of celebration itself.
“Saluti.”
