By Tracey Manailescu, Co-founder of WPIC Inc.
Last month had the incredible opportunity to represent The Wedding Planners Institute of Canada at the first ever Dubai Wedding Symposium produced by Vivaah Weddings and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. I was whisked away on an Emirates flight for a whirlwind experience like no other.
Follow along on my Instagram for more.
Highlights:
- I stayed at the Armani Hotel in the Burj Khalifa
- Opening night party was in the desert Nara Desert Camp
- Conference portion was at Taj Exotica
- We were taken to the Heart of Europe Island by yacht
- Dancing by the Arabian Gulf in the sand at Banyan Tree on Bluewater Island
- Closing dinner and party at the Armani Hotel
- Bonus: On the way back (my birthday) they called me up to the counter at Emirates to say they upgraded my seat to business class. My 14.5 hr flight went from torture to dreamy! (They even gave me pyjamas)
*Professional photos: Camlition Productions
It was a jam-packed schedule with me running from the airport to check in, while the shuttle bus was waiting for me to take me to the opening night festivities. 100 planners from around the world were invited to attend.
We were escorted through the desert in jeeps to the incredible Nara Desert Camp. We made our own perfume with the choice of Arabic or French scents. Henna artists were available, calligraphers with Arabic prints, dancers, and tons of drinks and appetizers. We were then treated to an incredible perfoemance by belly dancer and fire artists.
The next day was conference day at the Taj Exotica with speakers, and more speakers in panel discussions. We also had appointments to speak one on one with hoteliers. We were so spoiled with food and beverage at every point.
Banyan Tree all white party was fantastic! We all were starting to get to know each other better and formed our own groups. Dancing in the sand in front of the Gulf, wonderful margaritas and great music!
We were taken by Yacht to the Heart of Europe Island. We were on international waters so had to show our passports. What a unique concept. Europe’s favourite cities were highlighted with the various hotels.
The next day were site visits at some incredible properties around Dubai. The evening was our closing gala at the Armani Hotel inside the Burj Khalifa (I loved just having to take the elevator downstairs to join everyone as this was my host hotel). Such a beautiful set up, the dinner was incredible. Dancing to a live band made it even better. Then I had to run upstairs, pack and change out of my formal gown and get in a luxury taxi back to the airport. I kind of felt like Cinderella leaving the ball 🙁
I need to go back and explore more on my own to maximize the beautifulness of Dubai. Thank you to everyone who made this happen. It was such an incredible experience!
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