Today we’d like to introduce you to Saadia Kibriya
Hi Saadia, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
The name of my company, Kismet, reflects the very essence of fate, luck, and destiny, which is exactly what led me to start it. A series of events brought me to this path, and I’m passionate about creating unforgettable experiences for couples and families that symbolize the fateful meeting of their lives.
Back in 2008, I noticed a growing desire for modern interpretations of the traditional South Asian wedding, and I started focusing on blending old-world charm with contemporary style. As a lifelong designer, this shift allowed me to apply my creativity in new ways. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and I truly believe it was my own “kismet” that guided me here.
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?
No business owner will tell you it’s been an entirely smooth road, and my journey has certainly had its share of challenges. Early on, I was navigating a very niche market, which gave me a unique edge. There was a strong demand for the services I offered, and things picked up quickly. It all started with a friend’s wedding, and from there, word of mouth became my greatest ally—referrals began to flow, one after another. I kept my focus, worked hard, and was able to establish a steady business. Fortunately, my father, a seasoned entrepreneur, allowed me to utilize his space and resources, which gave me a head start. Despite these advantages, the early years were still humble—we were making deliveries in the beat-up old company minivan, affectionately nicknamed the “loser cruiser” (RIP to that trusty vehicle!).
What many people don’t realize is that being skilled in one area doesn’t mean you’re naturally great at everything else. I’ve always been someone who juggles a lot, especially with my self-proclaimed ADHD, but I quickly learned I needed help—especially on the financial side. That’s where my older sister Jia came in. She’s the total opposite of me: organized, punctual, and a whiz with numbers. Her support, along with help from smart friends and family, was essential. I’m pretty sure I’ve only just finished paying off some of the ‘IOUs’ I racked up from all their contributions!
Surrounding myself with the right people was a game-changer. Talented individuals like Isa, Amana, and Jomana brought energy, creativity, and insight that helped the business thrive. Having a shared space with these amazing people was vital for both business growth and creative collaboration. Looking back, it feels like these key people came into my life for a reason, as if it was all meant to be.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As the owner and lead event designer at Kismet Events, my team and I specialize in crafting experiences that leave lasting impressions. While many confuse what I do with traditional wedding planning, my work extends beyond that—I’m an event designer, something you can’t study in college. My role is to truly connect with my clients, uncover their vision, style, and emotions, and then transform those ideas into a tangible, immersive experience. I have an intuitive ability to understand what people want, often before they fully realize it themselves, and that’s where I shine—bringing their unspoken dreams to life.
At Kismet, I’m supported by a talented team I affectionately call the “Kismeteers,” experts in their respective fields. I collaborate and develop the creative concepts, and together, we execute every element—florals, set design, graphics, rentals—you name it, we handle it. Our goal is to manage every detail behind the scenes so that when you step into one of our events, you’re left in awe. The feeling of transforming an idea into an extraordinary space is the ultimate reward, and we get to experience that thrill every weekend. What sets us apart is our deep appreciation for the privilege of doing this work. We approach each event as a fresh opportunity to create that unforgettable “wow” moment, especially for weddings, where we aim to make sure every detail speaks to the couple’s unique love story.
As a Person of Color, I’m incredibly proud of the space I’ve carved out for other POC creatives in an industry where the career path wasn’t always visible. Growing up, the options often felt limited—doctor, lawyer, business. But I built Kismet from the ground up, getting my hands dirty in the early days to bring my vision to life. If TikTok had existed back then, I might’ve documented the whole journey and gone viral! Today, it’s inspiring to see more POCs embracing their creative identities, and I’m honored to be part of that shift. Our work is vibrant, it’s luxurious, and it reflects the rich, diverse tapestry that defines America. It’s more than just an event—it’s a celebration of culture, creativity, and individuality.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
One of my most cherished childhood memories is from when I was 9 years old, and my father handed me a Neiman Marcus magazine. He said, “This magazine features some of the finest luxury brands in the world. Learn it, live it, understand it,” and gave me this thick lavender issue. From that moment, I was captivated. I’d eagerly await each new edition, spending hours studying Prada’s timeless silhouettes or getting lost in the sparkle of Swarovski crystal handbags. I vividly remember the thrill when Tom Ford took over as Gucci’s creative director and transformed the brand—it left a lasting impression on me and ignited my passion for design and luxury.
Looking back, I feel like he always saw the path I was meant to take—like he knew what I was destined to do and become, long before I realized it myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kismeteventdesign.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellokismet
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kismeteventdesign?si=8Bn_nqae3REBDtKu
- Other: https://en.vogue.me/culture/mindy-kaling-priyanka-chopra-lilly-singh-diwali-2021-party-pictures/
