READING TIME: 3 min 0 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 05/24/2025
UPDATED: 05/24/2025
Ballet, Broadway, and bridal bliss—few can claim such a graceful transition between worlds. But for Mariella Rietschel, founder of WeddingPlanner Stockholm, the leap from pirouettes to peonies was a natural one. With over two decades of experience and more than 500 weddings orchestrated across Europe, Mariella's work is defined by precision, passion, and an unmistakable artistic flair.
We sat down with Mariella to uncover the magic behind her weddings, the philosophy that drives her company, and the memories that still take her breath away.
Before planning her first wedding, Mariella was captivating audiences as a ballerina with the Royal Swedish Ballet and on Broadway in New York. It was during her time in the U.S. that she found herself organizing business events on the side—an experience that planted the seed for a new creative venture.
“To me, wedding planning is a natural extension of my profession as a ballet dancer—both require precision, artistry, and emotion.”
When she returned to Sweden and planned her own wedding in 2003, she founded WeddingPlanner Stockholm—a boutique agency known for bespoke events marked by elegance, emotion, and deeply personal storytelling.
With 22 years of experience under her belt, Mariella approaches weddings with the same level of discipline and creativity she once brought to the stage.
“I love the creativity, elegance, and attention to detail that wedding planning requires. For me, it’s about crafting a seamless event—much like a perfectly choreographed dance, where every element flows effortlessly together.”
Whether it’s a quiet moment during the vows or a grand entrance into a candlelit reception, her goal is to make each moment feel intentional and unforgettable.
At the heart of Mariella’s work lies a simple but powerful idea: every wedding should feel like home to the couple—a space where their personalities, values, and love story come alive in every detail.
“With creative ideas, careful attention to detail and innovative design elements, my ambition is for every wedding to culminate into a unique and personal day.”
The result? Celebrations that feel effortless and elegant, no matter how complex the logistics.
WeddingPlanner Stockholm offers bespoke planning services tailored to every couple’s specific needs—whether they’re hosting a multi-day affair in Stockholm or a romantic celebration in the Italian countryside.
“Every love story is different, and we take pride in creating personalized experiences that reflect the couple’s vision, style, and personality.”
From full-service planning to design consultations, Mariella works closely with clients to develop a plan that fits their dreams and their budget—with flexibility, transparency, and warmth.
With so many weddings behind her, we asked Mariella if any one moment stands out. Her answer was as heartfelt as her approach:
“Perhaps one of the most magical moments was an outdoor ceremony overlooking the Stockholm archipelago, where the sun was shining, birds were singing, and the entire crowd joined together in a moving rendition of Amazing Grace.”
She also fondly recalls a high-energy Swedish-Polish celebration where the dance floor nearly gave way from all the joy—and a heartfelt serenade from a groom to his bride that left every guest in tears.
When asked about the biggest challenge she’s faced, Mariella doesn’t hesitate:
“The biggest challenge was for sure the pandemic years when all our weddings were postponed for 2 years.”
But through it all, her commitment to her couples and her craft never wavered. She’s built a trusted network of top-tier vendors, maintained close collaborations with venues like Grand Hôtel Stockholm, Nationalmuseum, and the Royal Opera House, and continues to guide couples with kindness and clarity.
Mariella’s advice for couples?
“Create a budget very early in the process and make sure to put in realistic numbers… and book a professional planner.”
She also reminds aspiring planners not to rush the process.
“It takes time to build a business,” she says. “But the journey is worth every step.”
And her dream venue to one day plan the ultimate wedding?
“The Moorings Village, Islamorada, Florida, USA.”
With the soul of an artist and the mind of a seasoned professional, Mariella Rietschel has created far more than a wedding planning company—she’s built a legacy of timeless, artfully crafted love stories. Whether it’s a grand celebration in a historic venue or an intimate gathering by the sea, she brings grace, harmony, and beauty to every couple’s most important day.
