Beyond the Party: How Modern Hosts Are Redefining Elegance with Intention

Akeshi Akinseye during her NBC Hello Iowa! interview discussing the art of celebrating and intentional event design

The definition of luxury is changing. Today’s most memorable celebrations are not defined by opulence alone—but by intention.

At Kesh Events, we’ve seen a powerful shift in how clients view elegance. It’s no longer about excess—it’s about emotion. The most luxurious experiences are the ones that feel personal, where every design decision tells a story, and every moment leaves a lasting impression.

As I recently shared during my interview on NBC 13’s Hello Iowa!, “Luxury today is not just about beauty—it’s about meaning.” This philosophy continues to guide our work as we design immersive, global celebrations for discerning clients around the world.

Elegance Reimagined: Meaning Is the New Luxury

In the past, luxury was defined by scale—towering centerpieces, grand venues, elaborate installations. Today, it’s defined by intention. Our clients are seeking experiences that resonate on a personal level.

We’re designing events where every detail, from the lighting to the floral composition to the guest journey, is driven by purpose. Whether it’s a handwritten note at each place setting, a signature scent that lingers through the night, or a menu inspired by the couple’s heritage, intention transforms design into something unforgettable.

The Power of Intention in Design

At Kesh Events, our design process begins with emotion. Before color palettes or floor plans, we ask one question:
“How do we want people to feel?”

That question informs every creative decision. It’s what turns a beautiful design into a meaningful experience. From sound and scent to movement and light, every element is orchestrated with purpose. The result is an event that’s not just visually stunning—it’s deeply felt.

Photography by Amy Anaiz

What’s Missing Without Intention

It’s easy to create something beautiful. But without intention, beauty alone lacks depth.

When an event is designed solely for aesthetics, guests may admire it—but they won’t remember it. What makes a celebration truly luxurious is the emotional connection it creates. A well-executed design tells a story—it draws people in and makes them feel part of something special.

That’s what sets Kesh Events apart: the ability to blend artistry, logistics, and emotion into a seamless, transformative experience.

Designing the Future of Luxury Celebrations

As event design continues to evolve, the future of luxury lies in experiences that are both extraordinary and meaningful.

Our clients are moving away from predictable grandeur toward personalization and purpose. They want every celebration to feel like an extension of who they are—a reflection of their story, style, and sensibilities.

This approach to design is what we call elegance with intention—and it’s defining a new era of global celebrations.

Discover The Art of Celebrating

Akeshi Akinseye’s upcoming book, The Art of Celebrating: Inspiration and Ideas for Meaningful Gatherings, explores this philosophy in depth. The book offers readers practical insights and inspiration to bring intention and artistry into their own celebrations.

Preorder Now:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Walmart

Akeshi Akinseye
Akeshi Akinseye

Founder & CEO of Kesh Events | Event Planner, Designer, Author & Hospitality Expert

Akeshi Akinseye is the founder and CEO of Kesh Events, a Chicago-based event planning, design and production company creating high-end weddings, destination celebrations, private events and brand experiences worldwide.

With more than 15 years of experience, her work centers on thoughtful hospitality, guest experience, cultural intelligence and the planning, design and production of highly considered celebrations.

Akeshi is also the author of The Art of Celebrating, a book about meaningful gatherings, thoughtful design and creating more intentional moments around the table and at home.

Her work and perspective on weddings, celebrations, design and hospitality have been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, Brides, People and other leading publications.

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Corporate Events Reimagined: How Brands Are Elevating Experiences Through Design and Immersive Storytelling