What if planning your wedding felt less like a financial stress test and more like telling a true story? We sit down with Danielle Leilani, founder of Leilani Social, to unpack how a small wedding planning studio grew into a dynamic agency that blends events, PR, and social media—without losing the human touch that matters most.

Danielle shares the winding path from journalism and anthropology to hospitality and why that background helps her ask sharper questions, translate culture into design, and protect a couple’s values amid the noise of trends. She takes us behind the scenes of early career milestones, including producing large South Asian weddings that demanded precision, empathy, and bold leadership. Along the way, she breaks down the real costs behind the glossy posts, reframes budget anxiety, and offers a simple lens for priorities: identify what you love, what you like, and what you can let go.

We also explore how Leilani Social built visibility with intention. Detailed Yelp reviews that explained the why behind the praise, steady Instagram and Pinterest storytelling, and relentless community networking created a flywheel of trust. Danielle talks about inclusive planning across every budget—from $10,000 celebrations to half-million-dollar galas—and the operational habits that make any event feel effortless to guests: timelines that breathe, vendor chemistry, and clear communication. Outside the planner’s toolkit, she draws creative fuel from wellness, travel, and hospitality, bringing fresh references and calm energy back to her teams and couples.

If you care about designing a day that feels like you—and building a vendor team that sees you—this conversation offers practical strategies and honest encouragement. Follow along for insights on wedding budgeting, cultural storytelling, visibility for creative businesses, and the mindset shifts that turn pressure into purpose. Enjoyed the conversation? Subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help more neighbors find the show.