Bridal Bliss: Orchestrating Stunning Wedding Decor with Expert Florists Collaboration.

As a bridal flower designer for over 20 years, I pour my heart into crafting arrangements that will give thought to your love story.

Four Seasons Kyoto - Zero two three x Japan Weddings
Photo : Sam Spicer Photography

Every petal counts and tells a part of your journey, creating an atmosphere that's as unique as your love. ❤️

However, of course, I cannot accomplish everything alone on the wedding day.

The design of these beautiful venue flowers was achieved through excellent collaboration with professional florists.

Collaborative Efforts

Four Seasons Kyoto - Zero two three x Japan Weddings
Photo : Sam Spicer Photography

I provide support as a liaison between the hotel florist and the client, as well as directing & overseeing the on-site arrangements on the wedding day.

Also I pay close attention to every detail, from table linens and candles to coordinating the colors of paper items and welcome boards.
I work very close with my trusted paper designer too.

Furthermore, for more realistic and detailed flower selections and alternative options within the budget, I relied on the expertise of florist.
She is well-versed in decorating hotel venues and is highly qualified for the task.

Harmonizing Every Detail

Four Seasons Kyoto - Zero two three x Japan Weddings
Photo : Sam Spicer Photography

From the wedding dress, decorations, bouquets, etc. and most of all, we will make sure your personality shines! Against a backdrop of a well-designed flower arrangement, you can create your dream wedding atmosphere.

The bride, who is the focal point of the wedding, deserves to have a one-of-a-kind bouquet because it represents her true beauty.

Wedding Bouquet by Mina USUI, Japan Weddings

On the wedding day, I was deeply moved when the hotel florist presented the bouquet to the bride.
She had prepared an abundance of beautiful flowers and truly transformed the venue into a dream with her team's hard work.

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The beautiful decorations are a result of the excellent teamwork that combined the talents and strengths of each florist.

Wedding Bouquet and Total Art Direction by Mina USUI, Japan Weddings

I couldn't appreciate them more. They are such pro florists.
And of course also I admired the hotel manager, who trusts our team work.

I look forward to working with them again on future clients' projects.

Destination Wedding in Kyoto - Video

The Four Seasons Kyoto is a hotel that was ranked 100th in the Travel + Leisure 2023 World's Best Awards.

The hotel is situated in a quiet corner of Higashiyama, where temples and shrines line the streets. Passing through bamboo groves, you'll find yourself in a Rajugari space where tradition and modern sensibility harmonize. The renowned garden, Sekisui-en, with a history spanning approximately 800 years, is enchanting and highly photogenic.

Videographer : Wonder Weddings

Ben and May, Texas natives with a passion for all things Japanese and design, were on the lookout for an English-speaking wedding designer, and we, Japan Weddings, gladly lent them a hand in their pursuit.

If you're finding it challenging to express your design ideas to hotels and venues in English, don't worry!
We're here to lend a hand !
Meet Mina, she's fluent in English and can smoothly communicate with venues to bring your dream wedding design to life in Japan.

With over 20 years of experience in the bridal floral and planning industry, Mina is your go-to expert for ensuring every detail is perfect for your special day.
Let us take the stress out of language barriers so you can focus on creating your perfect day!

【Wedding Crew】

Video : Wonder Weddings
Photo : Sam Spicer Photography
Floral Decor : zero two THREE - Four Seasons Kyoto
Floral direction support : Kanako Nakagi Design
Calligraphy / Paper Design : Breeze Paper
Total Floral and Wedding Design / Japan Weddings by Mina Exclusives

Four Seasons Kyoto Wedding Report

Let me present a delightful couple from Texas, Ben and May, who celebrated their exquisite destination wedding at the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto.

Photo : Sam Spicer Photography

As a wedding designer, it was my privilege to collaborate with them in realizing their dream day.

From conceptualizing design elements to facilitating discussions with the Hotel's floral team in English, I ensured a seamless execution on the significant day.

Whether you're envisioning comprehensive assistance or seeking specific support, rest assured, we provide our services in English with utmost professionalism.

My dedicated design team, operating under my creative direction, specializes in floristry, calligraphy, and paper design.
Together, we aim to bring your unique dream design to fruition.

Conveniently, we conduct consultations via Zoom, allowing for effective communication regardless of your global location.
If a preliminary venue inspection is required, consider it handled. Much like Ben and May, who had a distinct vision but required on-site verification, we undertake such investigations diligently.

Through Zoom sessions, we collaboratively explored ideas, and voila – the dream design was brought to life!

"It's akin to you interpreting the intricacies of my thoughts and translating them into design magic!"
- May


Our clients express genuine satisfaction with this approach. Should you be contemplating a destination wedding in Japan with an emphasis on design, our English-speaking team is at your service.

Moreover, let's dispel any concerns about being bound to the venue's florist – together, we might just overcome these limitations! We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to meet with you in Japan. 🌸✨

And of course if you have any dream Kyoto wedding plan, we can also do Full-planning at the Four Seasons Hotel.
The wedding venue coordinator of the Four Seasons Kyoto Hotel and we are very good relationship!

Let's talk over e-coffee chat about your dream destination wedding in Japan!

【Wedding Crew】
Photo : Sam Spicer Photography
Floral Decor : zero two THREE - Four Seasons Kyoto
Floral direction support : Kanako Nakagi Design
Calligraphy / Paper Design : Breeze Paper
Total Wedding Design Direction : Mina, Japan Weddings

Elevating Your Wedding Experience with Thoughtful Stationery, Including Japanese Calligraphy Design

When it comes to planning your dream wedding in Japan, you may focus on the venue, the perfect attire, and all the intricate details that make your big day special. However, there's one element that often gets underestimated but holds remarkable significance – your wedding stationery.

The Significance of Wedding Stationery

Your wedding stationery is more than just paper and ink; it's a powerful tool that sets the tone for your entire celebration. Often underestimated, stationery plays a pivotal role in conveying essential information to your guests while also sharing the essence of your love story and personalities as a couple. In this section, we'll explore the profound significance of wedding stationery and how it creates a meaningful connection between you and your loved ones.

Calligraphy : Dua Hati Design



Calligraphy : Dua Hati Design

Personal Touches: Infusing Your Love Story into Stationery

Wedding stationery offers numerous opportunities to infuse personal touches into your big day. From save-the-dates and invitations to table plans and escort cards, each piece can be a canvas for sharing your favorite songs, inside jokes, or the beautiful narrative of your love story. This section delves into the art of adding personal details to your stationery and creating a deeper connection with your guests, making your wedding day even more special.

Japanese Calligraphy Design: Elevating Your Stationery

For those who appreciate the beauty of Japanese calligraphy, our talented team is here to provide a unique and culturally resonant experience. In this section, we introduce the artistry of Japanese calligraphy design and how it can enhance your wedding stationery. Whether you seek to incorporate Japanese characters, symbols, or artistic strokes into your design, we'll show you how to infuse your stationery with the elegance of this traditional art form, adding an extra layer of depth and beauty to your wedding stationery.

If you love Japan and Design, we are here to support your dream desetination wedding in Japan!
Let’s have a 45min. free e-coffee chat!

What we should know about your destination wedding design in Japan?

In the realm of destination weddings in Japan, especially with Japanese hotels, we often encounter venue spaces that may not offer the same flexibility as their overseas hotels.

This is particularly true when it comes to intricate decorations like drapery suspended from the ceiling, hanging flower installations, or embellishments adorning the walls.

The reason for this lies in the historical customs of Japanese weddings, where grand decorations spanning across walls, floors, and ceilings were not the norm.

Furthermore, even the introduction of lights and electric decorations necessitates obtaining the hotel's permission.

Also 99% hotels in Japan allowed their in-house florists to decorate wedding spaces.
It's a little challenge for couples seeking a personal touch.

What complicates matters is the language barrier – very few of these talented florists speaks English. In this situation, leaves couples with a penchant for design feeling lost amidst their aspirations.


No worries!


I, Mina and my design team, are here to ensure that your vision becomes a breathtaking reality.

As an English speaking designer and planner with a deep understanding of international wedding culture, I am dedicated to bridging the gap between your dreams and the local wedding landscape.

Navigating within these confines, we are committed to thinking outside the box and bringing innovative ideas to the table.

Our mission is to seamlessly negotiate with both you and the venues, ensuring that your vision is harmoniously integrated despite of the venue's limitations.

From concept to execution on the big day, we will stand by your side. Rest assured that every detail is meticulously crafted.

Client's verbatim

“I love what you and your team did for the Modern Zen Table Setting. I want to design the decor so that the room doesn’t feel like a conference room. We have a planner/coordinator through the Hotel. I want to make sure the ideas/requests that I have for the design of the space are being communicated correctly”
— M.C.

An American bride who had entrusted her wedding vision to me shared her relief and satisfaction. Knowing that my presence brought her peace of mind further fueled my passion for this endeavor.

Soon, I will be embarking on a venue reconnaissance trip at her request, ensuring that her wedding day unfolds seamlessly.

Our Promise


While there might be constraints in terms of venue decor, rest assured that we are fully dedicated to transforming these restrictions into a reality with opportunities for creativity.

Our goal is to make your wedding as enchanting and extraordinary as you envision, despite any spatial or logistical challenges.

With our expertise, your dream wedding will rise above the constraints, leaving you with memories that resonate deeply.
Together, let's navigate the intricacies and craft a wedding that captures the essence of your love story in every detail.

Happy Valentine's Day!


It's that time of year again.
That's right!

It's time for the Valentine's Day ”Giveaway”！

This time, 2023 Valentine's Day Giveaway is spectacular to Mina Exclusives as it's after the Pandemic!

*This is for clients who will plan a Japan and Hawaii destination Wedding.

1 Winner for Japan Wedding WILL receive...

◆A seasonal fresh wedding natural stem bouquet ＋ boutonnière ＋ complete consultation of wedding dress (Color, Bouquet analysis, ETC) [$650.00 value]

1 Winner for Hawaii Wedding WILL receive...

◆Artificial Flower, Our signature design - Pineapple Flower Arrangement ＋ complete consultation of wedding dress (Color, Bouquet analysis, ETC) [$650.00 value]


How to JOIN? It’s easy as 1 2 3..


1. Follow our IG @minaexclusives

2. Like this Reel

3. Tag one of your friends

================

This give away closes on Feb. 28th. 2023.

The winner will be randomly picked and announced ON March 1st, 2023.
THE WINNERS WILL RECEIVE A DM from us.

I am grateful to all of my wonderful future clients who are planning A dream wedding in Japan and Hawaii!

Good luck my dear lovely brides!

with Love xxx

Mina

Modern Hindu Wedding in Tokyo

It was a wonderful and scorching summer day in August.
I catered this lovely Indian-American couple from “THE BIG APPLE” and had a spectacular Hindu-style wedding ceremony with 2 nights reception at a modern hotel which was held in Hotel New Ohtani in Tokyo.

The guests were about 200 and came from NY, India and Japan.

They’ve set up a Gazebo with lovely red drapes for their ceremony. They used a high ceiling arena for their ceremony because the guests are over 200!

Red and white carnation garlands are one of the Hindu culture's traditional items for the brides.
It was magnificent and sacred.

And inside the gazebo, the minister was burning and used floral petals to celebrate their holy marriage.

The bride and groom’s attire were really stunning although it was made of thick and heavy fabrics.
So we tried to cool them down by using fans and bringing them iced waters from time to time.
They also said that summer in Tokyo is hotter than India.

One treasure memory with the bride was I knew her uncle!
It was indeed a small world after all, I used to work with him but a different division in the same building when I was an secretary for expats in American security firm in Tokyo.

When we saw each other after 10 years, we were both shocked and asked the question “Why are you here?”

The bride was from NY and were connected in Tokyo through her uncle. WHAT A SURPRISE!

On the day of ceremony itself, they had an intimate morning ceremony with their families and then prepare for the ceremony and receptions.

Cocktail and Reception

After the scorching afternoon, it’s finally cocktail hour for the Indian Wedding inside the "Ho" ball room at the Hotel New Otani in Tokyo.

It was decorated with the bride and groom's large Initial boards, and their photos when they were kids are also placed with candles on the round table.

We also show cased 3 huge photos of their engagement photos taken in Japan. The Ho room was know because of it’s was known gorgeous and spectacular view of a Japanese garden and it’s classic chandeliers!

An Indian wedding reception is a grand occasion, it usually very gorgeous and with so much happiness around!
Eating and dancing with wearing very colorful attires.
One of the Indian style party dresses is called “SARI” which has many varieties of colors and patterns. This brides's blue Sari was elegant and classy.

The food was exquisite. It was a mixed Indian food and Japanese food Like Chicken Curry, Samosa, Sushi, Tempura, Etc.

It’s absolutely like the ones you can watch in the movies. They werere like the onew you can watch in the movies.
They were like the King and queen during the ceremony. It was beautiful and sacred that I would never forget.


Mina Exclusives loves Ceremonies that showcase the Extra Ordinary culture of each country.
These different cultures are always impressive because it includes a rich history, local customs, and their own beauty and appeal which have been handed down through the ages.



FAQS (frequently asked questions)

Q: WE FOUND A NICE HOTEL IN JAPAN,  BUT WE WERE ADVISED TO CHOOSE THE WEDDING PACKAGE FROM THE HOTEL.
WHY CAN’T WE DO OUR OWN CUSTOMIZED WEDDING IN JAPAN?
WHY CAN'T we BRING our OWN PHOTOGRAPHER, FLORIST AND WEDDING ATTIRES ?

This is quite different from the global standard.
First, the wedding plan provided by the hotel and the wedding halls in Japan may include vendors such as photographers and florists. In this case, it may be that outside vendors are restricted because they are not required to be brought in.

In addition, the hotel and the wedding hall in Japan may have a partnership with certain vendors to ensure that the wedding runs smoothly. 

Furthermore, the hotel's own equipment and services can ensure the quality and safety of the wedding. 

It may be necessary to limit the equipment, decorations, and other items brought in by outside vendors if they do not match the hotel's facilities and services, as this could lead to problems and accidents.

However, some hotels and the wedding hall may allow outside vendors to be brought in for an additional fee. In such cases, prior coordination with the hotel may be required.

If you wish to bring your own vendors, you will have to find out which venues are accepting outside vendors and then find a bilingual wedding planner.
We also have exclusive contacts for our wedding planning, so please feel free to contact us if you want to learn more.

Q : We would like to have our wedding a nice Hotel in Japan. But we need English Communication support with them.

A: Many couples from overseas soon found that weddings in Japan is quite different from the global standard.
Most of the Hotels in Japan allow you to bring your own “interpreter” than “bilingual wedding planner” from outside.
That's why we are here to help you communicate between you and the venues to make your Japan dream wedding come true!

Q: I am a Christian. Can we have our wedding ceremony at a church in Japan?


A: Most of the wedding ceremonies at churches in Japan are operated by wedding companies or agents. Again, they are usually packaged-style.
In this case, I suggest to find or bring a bilingual minister specializing in your religion.


Q: Can we do a Shinto-style wedding at a shrine?


A: Certainly! Some of the shrines are open to foreigners. If the bride or groom is Japanese, you can find more available shrines.
But unfortunately, this doesn’t help with your planning, and usually they do not have a bilingual manager at the shrine. Therefore, it’s best to hire a bilingual planner for your ceremony.

Q: Can we do our wedding in public AREA?

A : This is quite different from the global standard. Photo sessions without a ceremony may be possible but we still need to ask permission to take photos from our government.
We recommend you to find a coordinator who can help & support to get the permission needed in Japan before your arrival.
You may be subjected to confiscation, eviction, restrictions on use, or financial sanctions.

As a wedding planner, we suggest to book and pay private venues for your memorable moment without any anxiety and for your safety as well.
Our team has personal connections with some venues which you can use to your advantage!


Q: What kind of venues does Mina Exclusives have?

A: We have GOOD-TO-GO venues like ;

  • Old Japanese House Inn in Kanagawa and Kyoto.

  • Charming Old Tea house in Kyoto

  • Old Japanese House Kaiseki Restaurant from Edo Period in Yokohama

You can bring your own wedding professionals and wedding attires !

Also if you prefer to be in the modern side, we can have a Hotel in Tokyo with A Japanese Garden, a Hotel with Great view of the Mt. Fuji, and a modern boutique Hotel in Osaka.
These hotels offer a little more flexibility service for Mina Exclusive’s clients.

If you like outdoor wedding or gramping, we can also introduce you to venues surrounded by nature in Chiba.

We have lots of recommendable restaurants for your rehearsal dinner too.

With pleasure, Mina Exclusives is here to please you, so other options are possible.
Please let me know what you have in mind so we can start planning your dream wedding here in JAPAN!

Q: What if our dream destinations not listed on Mina Exclusives’ list?

A : Mina exclusives’ got you!  We will manage all the necessary things needed like researching, negotiating and talking with the managers in charge. 
This would be the crucial part of planning and I suggest you to give us at least 10 days to find the best options for you.
Because of this, we charge a minimal research fee (kick-off fee) for this service. 


Q: Can we do our wedding ceremony while the cherry blossoms (sakura) are blooming?

A: You may know that the sakura blooming season varies year by year depending on the weather. In addition, the blossoms only last for about one week! To further complicate the picture, the weather in Japan at this time of year is very unpredictable. 

Consequently, We can try our luck to have your dream wedding, but it’s essential to have at least one back-up plan.

In Japan, having a wedding ceremony in a public place is not allowed. We recommend to book a private garden which, if the timing is perfect, will have the sakura for sure. 

Q: How can we get in touch with Mina Exclusives?

A: We conduct our first session via Zoom or Skype so we can get to know each other face-to-face. Once you sign up, we strictly communicate through email or FB private group chat to avoid miscommunications.

Our office is open weekdays 9:00~18:00. Saturdays 9:00~15:00
Closed Sundays and Mondays.
Our office is closed on weekdays and weekends when our clients have their events.

Q: What mode of payment are available?

A: Right now, we only accept major Credit Cards and Paypal.

Q: What is Mina Exclusives’ strength?

A: I am an independent bilingual wedding planner as well as a wedding and flower designer based in Japan.
I also have exclusive connection with eye catching venues. 

First and foremost, I want to help create the wedding you dream of. In addition, I love the idea of providing a cross-cultural bridge within the context of the wedding.

That is to say, “to connect the world by combining the beauty of cultural tradition and innovation.” 

What are you waiting for?
Let’s plan your dream wedding in JAPAN NOW !
Please send inquiries VIA IG direct message or the contact form!

We are back! We can't wait to e-meeting you for your big day in Japan!

Hello again! I’m Mina, the founder of Mina Exclusives and Mina Inc, a Destination Wedding Planner and Florist based in JAPAN, Specializing in Modern cross-cultural weddings + Minimalist weddings + Elopements.

I have been a professional flower designer for about 20 years, and an event and a destination wedding planner for almost 9 years. 

🌿

My company offers an exclusive type of wedding business in Japan with individualized, creative weddings in which the bride and groom determine what they want for their special day. 

Also I've been planning destination weddings in Hawaii, mainly for Japanese couples. 

🌿

Our service and designs are not like the usual packaged Japanese wedding styles but are more open to global styles in Japan. 

I design a one-of-a-kind wedding bouquet and event design. 

My purpose in my work and in my life is to facilitate understanding, whether it is between the participants of a wedding, between businesses, or among different cultures in any setting.

I respect different cultures and sprinkle them into your own customized program and design. 

Japan is a country with clean and safe with beautiful culture, polite and kind people with unique hospitality and delicious foods !

Hawaii has a dynamic nature and you will feel a unique connection between Hawaii and Japan and their unique beautiful cultures. 

🌿

My philosophy is summarized by the following: 

✨Connect the world through combining the beauty of cultural tradition and innovation✨

My passion is to become a cultural bridge while serving others.

After the pandemic, weddings are becoming more intimate. 

We love to produce boutique style weddings since we started our wedding business.

We are looking forward to talk with lovebirds on our session.

Thanks and Arigato 🙏

with love,

Mina

Japan is finally opening its doors to overseas tourists! 2022 updates.

We hope you are starting a whole new wonderful life after co-vid.
Time passes so fast, it has been so long since we talked last time!

We are doing fine. We had vaccination shots 3 times already and lucky for us, so far neither of family members nor I have been infected.
Mina has been working for more wedding design jobs for Japanese clients for their resort wedding out of Tokyo, as well as my branding and coaching business.

As you may have heard, Japan is finally opening its doors to overseas tourists soon.
↓
https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Coronavirus/Japan-details-October-s-full-tourism-reopening-6-things-to-know


We are all welcome your visits !

Love you, by Mina