READING TIME: 3 min 59 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/19/2024
UPDATED: 09/19/2024
In the labyrinth of wedding planning, finding a guide who can transform your visions into reality is akin to discovering a hidden treasure. Enter Thomas Bui Lifestyle, a wedding planning company that doesn't just organize events; they orchestrate dreams. From the sun-drenched streets of Saigon to the romantic avenues of Paris, this is the story of a company that's redefining what it means to say "I do."
Thomas Bui's journey into the world of wedding planning began not in a classroom or an office, but in the vibrant city of Saigon, Vietnam. "My childhood in Saigon, Vietnam inspired me to be a planner," Thomas reminisces. "My family hosted many black tie dinner soirees since we were a part of the French government, hence, I was born into it."
Fast forward to the present, and Thomas Bui Lifestyle isn't just a business; it's the culmination of a lifelong passion. "I started Thomas Bui Lifestyle in 2000, 24 years now," he says with a hint of pride. "This is my 2nd career, previously I was in the pharmaceutical industry." It's a testament to the power of following one's heart, even when the path leads away from a stable career.
What drives a man to leave a lucrative career in pharmaceuticals for the unpredictable world of wedding planning? For Thomas, the answer is simple: "I love the entire planning process of every wedding; working with all our clients and cultivating every detail of their vision. From logistics to design, every day is something new."
It's this love for the craft that sets Thomas Bui Lifestyle apart. They don't just plan weddings; they curate experiences. And at the heart of these experiences lies a philosophy that's as transparent as it is touching. "Our philosophy is simple," Thomas explains. "'Take care of your clients, build a strong relationship, be transparent, intentional and honest.' We practice the Golden and Platinum Rules every day."
The Golden Rule - treat others as you would like to be treated - is well-known. But the Platinum Rule? That's where Thomas Bui Lifestyle truly shines. It's about treating others the way THEY want to be treated.
In an industry awash with packages and pre-set plans, Thomas Bui Lifestyle stands out by offering just one thing: excellence. "We only offer full-service. Our full-service is called 'The Bespoke Experience,'" Thomas states firmly. No tiered packages, no upselling. Just a promise to make every wedding as unique as the love it celebrates.
And when they say "bespoke," they mean it. While many planners are content with local venues, Thomas Bui Lifestyle thinks globally. "Our most memorable weddings are destination events where the guests get to experience the culture," they share enthusiastically. "We enjoy designing the itinerary so guests get to immerse themselves in the history, enjoy the excursions while create the best memories."
Picture it: a castle in the rolling hills of France, its ancient stones echoing with laughter and love. Or perhaps a villa in Morocco, where the scent of spices mingles with the fragrance of bridal bouquets. "My dream wedding location would be another wedding in a castle in France and England. Morocco is another city to design something," Thomas muses. It's clear that for him, the world is not just a backdrop, but a co-star in the wedding story.
In an age where businesses often prioritize volume over value, Thomas Bui Lifestyle takes a radically different approach. "We take on a limited number of events so that we can spend more time with all our clients," the team explains. This isn't just about keeping clients in the loop; it's about building trust. "We speak with all our couples on a weekly basis, reporting to them and explain every contracts and breakdown why things are very expensive," they continue.
And just how many weddings does this dream team take on? "8-10," Thomas says simply. It's a number that might shock some planners, but for Thomas Bui Lifestyle, it's the key to their magic. Each wedding gets the attention it deserves, each couple feels like they're the only ones in the world.
Let's talk numbers, because in the world of weddings, budget is often the elephant in the room. Thomas Bui Lifestyle tackles this head-on. "We charge 18% of the total overall budget," they state. No hidden fees, and no surprise charges. Just a clear, upfront cost for peace of mind.
But what about that ever-elusive goal of staying on budget? The team is refreshingly candid. "It’s difficult to stay on budget because everything has gotten very expensive," he admits. "Cost of living has increased 2-3x. Unfortunately, everything gets passed down to the clients."
For couples just starting their wedding journey, Thomas Bui Lifestyle has a message that's part wisdom, part rallying cry. "Enjoy the process, take your time building your dream vendor team," they advise. It's not just about the big day; it's about the journey of getting there.
And what about the stress, the last-minute disasters that seem to plague every wedding? Thomas just laughs. "I enjoy the challenge, the stress, I love it all," he says with the confidence of a general on the eve of victory.
In the grand tapestry of life, weddings are the golden threads - moments of joy, commitment, and love that shine through the years. Thomas Bui Lifestyle doesn't just plan these moments; they elevate them into timeless masterpieces. From the backyard bride to the castle-seeking royalty, Thomas Bui and his team craft weddings that are as diverse as they are unforgettable. They don't just meet expectations; they redefine what's possible. In their world, every wedding is a world premiere, every couple the stars of their own epic love story.
