In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Emily Coyne—creative director, founder, and force behind Emily Coyne Events—for a masterclass in elegance, leadership, and intentionality.

Known for her elevated simplicity and seamless execution, Emily shares how her team creates weddings that feel effortless, emotionally resonant, and deeply personal—without sacrificing operational precision. From her background in finance to building a high-performing team grounded in trust and clarity, she unpacks the systems, rituals, and values that drive her world-class client experience.

She also opens up about the quieter side of leadership—why presence is more powerful than performance, and how grace under pressure builds more than events; it builds reputation.

And in one of the episode’s most personal moments, James, Otto and Emily reflect on a real-life rupture in their working relationship—what went wrong, how it almost cost them future projects, and what it looked like to repair trust with honesty, humility, and a phone call.

It’s an episode full of depth—for anyone who values integrity, growth, and beauty.

In this episode, James and Otto sit down with Julian Leaver, the celebrated event planner of Julian Leaver Events, former hotelier, and master of gracious hosting, for a conversation that redefines what luxury really means. Julian shares why beautiful design is only the beginning—and how emotional intelligence, anticipation, and warmth create the kind of experiences that guests never forget. With roots in Southern hospitality and a sharp understanding of client psychology, Julian unpacks how he makes people feel cared for at every turn—without ego, noise, or theatrics. He talks about navigating the luxury market as a man in a traditionally female-led industry, the leadership lessons learned from hospitality giants, and how confidence and kindness can (and should) coexist at the highest level. If you’ve ever wondered how to build a brand that feels as good as it looks—or how to lead without overpowering—this episode is your guide to thoughtful luxury and modern creative leadership.

In this In the Margins episode, we step into a quiet but powerful moment with Michelle Rago, one of the most respected voices in luxury event production.

Michelle opens up about how her childhood shaped her ability to stay grounded under pressure—and how that emotional clarity has become a cornerstone of her leadership. She shares why she no longer feels the need to prove herself, what she looks for in creative collaborators, and how true confidence often arrives quietly, without the need for noise or performance.

This conversation is a reminder that you don’t have to be the loudest in the room to be the most trusted, and that calm, kindness, and presence are still the most underrated superpowers in business.

If you’ve ever felt like you had to work harder to be taken seriously—or questioned your place in high-stakes creative spaces—this episode will meet you right where you are.

Guest Bio:

Michelle Rago is the founder of Michelle Rago Destinations, a global event production firm known for curating unforgettable destination weddings and celebrations around the world.

Her greatest strength lies in her ability to interpret her clients’ desires and translate them into events that are both meticulously planned and effortlessly beautiful. With years of hands-on experience, a refined eye for design, and a mastery of logistics, Michelle has built a reputation for navigating complex destination productions with grace and precision.

What truly sets her apart is her curiosity—about people, about place, and about how aesthetics, culture, and hospitality come together to shape meaningful experiences. It’s this lens that makes her work not just admired, but remembered.

From private estates to faraway coastlines, Michelle creates moments that are intentional, elegant, and deeply rooted in connection.