Founded by Ngui Sheau Hanng in 2010, the company has carved a niche in the world of destination weddings, blending meticulous planning with personal touches to bring every couple’s vision to life.
In an exclusive interview, Ngui Sheau Hanng shares her journey, the challenges of planning destination weddings, and her insights on creating memorable celebrations.
The spark that started it all
For Ngui Sheau Hanng, the founder of Hanngevent, the love for event management was always in her DNA. “It’s always been my passion,” she shares. Hanng pursued her studies in hospitality and event management at a prestigious international institution in Switzerland, where her foundation in the industry was solidified.
Her journey took off after she returned to Malaysia and worked with an international wedding planner for a luxury wedding at a resort. “That experience opened my eyes to the potential of destination weddings,” she says. Inspired by the beauty of these unique celebrations, she founded Hanngevent in 2010, focusing on creating personalised and seamless weddings for couples worldwide.
Essentials of destination wedding planning
Destination weddings are as enchanting as they are complex. Hanng highlights three key elements couples should prioritise when planning: budget, capacity, and intention.
“Budget determines the venue and helps us plan to fit the couple’s vision,” she explains. Capacity is equally crucial since every venue has limitations. But perhaps most important is the ‘why.’ “We always ask, why do you want to do a destination wedding? Does the venue hold sentimental value? Is it where you first met or got engaged? Understanding their story helps us propose a venue that aligns with their vision.”
When it comes to making each celebration unique, Hanngevent goes the extra mile. “We start with detailed consultations to understand the couple’s vision and preferences,” says Hanng.
From there, the team tailors every aspect of the wedding, from choosing the right flowers to selecting the perfect venue. “We ask questions like, what’s your favourite colour? Do you prefer a beach or a garden setting? These little details allow us to craft a wedding that reflects the couple’s style and personality.”
Popular dream wedding destinations
Langkawi holds a special place in Hanngevent’s portfolio. “It’s truly a gem in Malaysia,” says Hanng. With 99 islands set against the backdrop of the Andaman Sea, Langkawi offers breathtaking views, luxurious five-star resorts, and the added charm of being a duty-free island.
“Couples can choose from a beach, garden, or villa wedding,” Hanng explains. “We focus on enhancing Langkawi’s natural beauty to make every wedding feel intimate and unique.”
But Langkawi isn’t the only stunning location in Hanngevent’s portfolio. The team has also successfully planned weddings in other iconic destinations, such as Bali, Europe, and Switzerland. Each location, whether it’s the romantic allure of Italy or the tropical charm of Bali, provides its own distinct atmosphere, ensuring every couple’s wedding vision becomes a reality. “Europe, especially Italy and Switzerland, is dreamy with its charming architecture, breathtaking scenery, and exquisite cuisine,” she adds.
Post-pandemic, the demand for destination weddings has surged, with more Southeast Asian couples venturing to Europe for their big day. Hanngevent stays ahead by collaborating with global vendors and tourism boards. “We keep up with trends and even create new ones tailored to our clients’ needs,” Hanng shares.
Overcoming challenges and looking ahead
Planning destination weddings comes with its own set of challenges, weather being the biggest. “In Malaysia, we’re lucky to avoid major disasters, but sudden rain can disrupt plans,” Hanng recalls. “We always have a contingency plan, like backup venues or tents, to ensure everything goes smoothly.”
As for the future, Hanngevent is set to expand, offering more destinations and affordable options for couples. “Our goal is to help couples achieve their dream wedding without financial stress,” she says. With Ngui Sheau Hanng’s expertise and passion, couples can rest assured that their special day will be one to remember.
If you’re looking to plan your dream destination wedding, be sure to explore Hanngevent’s website.
Discover more stories about industry experts here.
Photography by Imran Sulaiman