In an industry where extravagance often overshadows emotion, Pooja Doshi has redefined what it means to create a wedding. As the Managing Director at Elusive Dreams – Luxury Wedding Decor, her work is not just décor—it’s storytelling in its most elegant form. With an eye for detail, a heart for emotion, and a vision that transcends trends, Pooja has built a brand synonymous with grace and grandeur. Recognized among the ET Panache 35 Under 35 Edition III at the prestigious WOW Awards Asia 2025, she stands as a trailblazer who turns fleeting moments into everlasting memories.
From her first steps into the world of event planning at 22 to steering a luxury décor brand that inspires across the industry, Pooja’s journey is a masterclass in persistence, innovation, and authenticity. In this exclusive conversation, she shares the milestones, challenges, and aspirations that continue to shape her path.
1. From your first step into event planning to where you stand today, can you share the story of how you entered the wedding and event planning industry and how your early experiences shaped your approach today?
I was just 22 when I first stepped into the world of wedding décor, completely fascinated by the idea of transforming spaces into experiences. By 24, I took the leap of faith and started my own company, Elusive Dreams. Those early years taught me the importance of detailing, listening closely to clients, and learning on the go. Every small project, every challenge shaped the way I design today—always with a balance of creativity, personalization, and a deep respect for the emotions behind each celebration.
2. What was the pivotal moment or inspiration that motivated you to pursue a career in this field?
The pivotal moment for me was realizing how deeply I connected with creating experiences that leave people with lasting memories. I’ve always loved design and celebrations, but when I saw the joy and emotions a beautifully curated wedding could bring—not just to the couple, but to their families and guests—I knew this was where I truly belonged. That feeling of being able to turn someone’s elusive dream into reality was the inspiration that pushed me to pursue this as a career.
3. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while building your career, and how did you navigate them successfully?
One of the biggest challenges I faced in the early years was building trust and credibility at a young age. Clients often hesitated to hand over such important milestones to someone just starting out. Budgets were tight, resources were limited, and every project felt like a test of my resilience. What helped me navigate those hurdles was consistency—delivering more than what was expected, paying attention to even the smallest details, and never compromising on creativity. Over time, those early struggles became my strongest foundation, shaping the way I work today—with persistence, passion, and the belief that challenges are simply stepping stones to growth.
4. Which events or accomplishments stand out as defining moments in your career, and why do they hold particular significance for you?
Several moments stand out, but a few truly shaped my journey. The first was designing my very own wedding project under Elusive Dreams on 1st February 2015—it was the point where my vision came alive, and people began to recognize my style. Another defining milestone was collaborating with Manyavar as their wedding ambassador, which gave my work a larger platform and connected me directly to brides and families who resonated with my aesthetic. Each of these moments was special because they weren’t just professional wins—they validated my belief that passion and persistence can turn dreams into reality.
5. With trends, client expectations, and budgets constantly evolving, how do you ensure your work stays innovative while still reflecting your personal style?
For me, innovation comes from staying curious and adaptable. I keep a close eye on global design trends, but I always reinterpret them in a way that feels authentic to my aesthetic—warm, detail-oriented, and story-driven. Every client has their own dream, budget, and personality, so I focus on blending what’s trending with what’s meaningful to them. My personal style acts like the thread that ties it all together, ensuring that no matter how the concept evolves, the final experience still carries that Elusive Dreams signature—elegant, thoughtful, and timeless.
6. Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for your career and your vision for the future of your work in the wedding and event planning industry?
Looking ahead, my biggest aspiration is to take Elusive Dreams to new heights by curating weddings and events that feel like art forms—immersive, emotional, and unforgettable. I want to expand beyond just décor into creating holistic experiences where every detail. On a larger scale, I envision contributing to the future of the industry by bringing in more sustainable, conscious practices without compromising on beauty and luxury. For me, the dream is to continue evolving while staying true to what started it all—designing celebrations that touch hearts and create lasting memories.
From her earliest experiments with wedding décor to curating unforgettable luxury celebrations, Pooja Doshi has proven that wedding design is not merely about aesthetics—it’s about emotion, storytelling, and soul. Her journey is a reminder that dreams, no matter how elusive, can be transformed into reality with vision, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As she sets her sights on creating immersive, sustainable, and artful experiences, Pooja continues to inspire an entire industry with unique celebrations.
