Q: Nalini, Housethome has established itself as a prominent platform for home style and art. What inspired the launch of Kahani, and how does it stand out in the wedding gifting landscape?
Nalini: As we expanded our homestyle and art verticals, we quickly gained a discerning clientele from around the world who cherished our curated products and services. They often asked if we could help with gifting for special occasions, particularly weddings. While we initially catered to these requests on a small scale, the overwhelming appreciation and growing demand convinced us to fully embrace this opportunity. Hence, Kahani was born, blending the essence of storytelling with the artistry of bespoke wedding gifts.
Kahani, which means “story,” symbolizes the start of a beautiful journey, capturing the unique moments that define love. Our true strength lies in customizing these gifts to match our clients’ requirements and the profiles of their guests, ensuring that each piece is a personal reflection of the recipient’s sentiments.
Q: With your extensive background in high-end retail and luxury brand management, how has your experience shaped the vision for Kahani?
Nalini: My journey working with several leading brands over the decades has honed my passion for impeccable service and exquisite craftsmanship. I’ve always catered to clients with discerning tastes who seek the best and appreciate exclusivity. At Kahani, we infuse this ethos into every detail, ensuring each gift tells a unique story of love and celebration. Our mission is to provide a seamless, stress-free experience for wedding families, delivering gifts that exceed expectations and leave a lasting impression.
Q: Nalini, Kahani offers a wide range of luxury gifts. Could you share some of the standout pieces and what makes them special?
Nalini: Absolutely! At Kahani, we pride ourselves on curating a collection that embodies exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Our offerings include stunning Tanjore creations from the vibrant south, intricate Bidri artworks from Karnataka, and the renowned Zardosi art form, each piece a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, we feature exclusive 24 karat gold-plated, limited-edition artworks, bespoke silver gifts, and a diverse array of gifts spanning various styles and price points. What sets us apart is our ability to customize gifts based on our clients’ unique preferences and the profiles of their esteemed guests.
Q: What challenges does Kahani aim to address in the wedding gifting industry for its clients?
Nalini: The Indian Wedding gifting industry has historically faced significant challenges, particularly in terms of professionalism and standards. Local vendors often do not prioritize these aspects, leading to inconsistent quality, reliability and dependability and added stress for customers during an already demanding wedding planning phase. At Kahani, we are dedicated to setting a new standard. We ensure every aspect of our service is meticulously managed, from concept to delivery, guaranteeing a seamless experience and exceptional quality that our clients can trust.
Q: What sets Kahani apart from other players in the wedding gifting market?
Nalini: Kahani is not just about gifting; it’s about creating unforgettable moments. We go beyond conventional tokens, by personalizing each gift to reflect the recipient’s unique style and preferences. Our team works closely with clients to understand their vision, ensuring that every piece is a meaningful expression of their love and gratitude. This attention to detail & dedication to excellence distinguish Kahani as a leader in luxury wedding gifting. At Kahani, it is our commitment to transforming your wedding gifting into a sophisticated and stress-free affair.
Q: Looking ahead, how do you envision Kahani’s growth and its impact on the luxury gifting industry?
Nalini: We’re excited about the future of Kahani and its potential to redefine luxury gifting globally. With a robust network of artisans & partners, both locally and internationally, and we are poised to expand our offerings and reach new markets including US, Australia, Dubai & Singapore markets, where we are in discussion to launch open our physical stores shortly. Our goal is to continue inspiring moments of joy and celebration through artful gifting, setting new standards of elegance and sophistication in the industry.
Q: Lastly, what advice would you give to couples planning their wedding gifts?
Nalini: I would encourage couples to embrace the art of gifting as an opportunity to express their unique story. Whether it’s a handcrafted artwork or a personalized piece, choose gifts that resonate with your journey together. At Kahani, we are here to turn your vision into reality, creating gifts that not only celebrate your special day but also create cherished memories for years to come.