Conversations with Ruju Hailey Shah

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ruju Hailey Shah.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I love all things events. I was in the event industry for three years before starting my own wedding planning company in 2020. Soon after, I decided to add on branding elements and personalized creations. The more weddings I did, the more I realized the importance of branding events. This entails having personalization from unique signage to monogrammed drink stirrers or event themed cake toppers. Branding events help transform ordinary events into wonderfully luxurious events.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I started both my businesses right before Covid-19 hit. The pandemic shook the entire industry and made clients rethink the timing of their events. This shakeup required me to adjust my business strategy. In addition, I took this time as an opportunity to fine-tune my skills to better focus on enhancing my services.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We provide many event branding items, including bar signage, wedding signage, drink stirrers, dessert toppers, cake toppers, menu cards, and nameplates. We also have expanded to include home décor items such as personalized marble and wood charcuterie board, layered mandalas, personalized wooden spoon and ornaments. My mind is constantly spinning, trying to create new products that people will love. My next challenge is incorporating novel materials such as vegan leather.

We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I graduated with a Master’s in Biomedical Science and my goal was to pursue a career in the science field. However, nature took its course and landed me in the wedding and personalized creation industries. Although I never envisioned being here, I know this is right where I am meant to be.

Pricing:

• Custom Charcuterie Board – $55
• Wedding Signage – Starting at $60
• Table Numbers – $14
• Drink Stirrers – Starting at $14

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.thescollectives.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/the.s.collective
• Facebook: facebook.com/thescollective