What Defines a Luxury Wedding?

Planning a wedding, local or destination, is an exciting journey, but when it comes to luxury weddings, there’s often a lot of confusion about what truly sets them apart. So what defines a luxury wedding? Is it the budget? The details? The vendors? In our latest video up on YouTube, MDE founder and renowned luxury wedding planner, Michelle Durpetti, breaks it all down, sharing her expert insights on what makes a wedding luxurious and how couples can navigate the planning process with confidence.

Defining A Luxury Wedding: The Mindset

One of the biggest takeaways from Michelle’s discussion is that luxury isn’t just about cost—it’s a mindset. While a higher budget can certainly contribute to more bespoke details, what truly defines a luxury wedding is:

✔️ Craftsmanship & Expertise – Vendors who are artisans in their craft, whether it’s florals, invitations, or photography.
✔️ Personalization – Thoughtful, custom elements that reflect the couple’s vision and story.
✔️ Attention to Detail – Every aspect of the wedding is intentional and executed with precision.
✔️ Quality Over Quantity – Luxury wedding vendors often take on fewer clients to provide a high-touch experience.

Budget Allocation: The Investment in Luxury

Michelle emphasizes that when hiring a luxury wedding vendor, you’re not just paying for a service—you’re investing in their expertise, years of experience, and their ability to problem-solve on the spot. They’ve been featured, published, and recognized in the industry for a reason!

A common question couples ask is: “Have you worked at my venue before?” Michelle’s response? It’s not about where a vendor has worked but how much experience they bring to the table. A seasoned luxury vendor can adapt to any setting and still deliver an exceptional experience.

💡 How to Know If a Vendor Is Truly Luxury

If you’re unsure whether a vendor fits the luxury category, Michelle suggests asking:
🔹 Do they prioritize quality over quantity?
🔹 Do they have a strong reputation and portfolio?
🔹 Do they offer a high level of personalization and service?
🔹 Are they selective about the weddings they take on?

The answers to these questions can help determine if they align with your vision and expectations.

Luxury Weddings Are About Experience

At the end of the day, a luxury wedding is about the experience—for the couple and their guests. From the moment you start planning to the last dance of the night, the goal is to create something extraordinary.

💌 Not sure where your wedding falls on the luxury scale? That’s okay! Michelle encourages couples to reach out, ask questions, and start a conversation.