Ioana Șelner: The Visionary Romanian Entrepreneur Who Built a Global Wedding Empire

A Different Way of Seeing Weddings

When most people think of weddings, they picture romance, flowers, and celebrations. When Ioana Șelner thinks of weddings, she envisions opportunity, global expansion, and industry dominance.

Humble Beginnings in Romania

Twelve years ago, she founded Nuntă pe Plajă (“Wedding on the Beach”) in Romania with little more than a vision and relentless determination. Today, that vision has transformed into an international empire operating in 12 countries — including Dubai, one of the most competitive wedding markets in the world.

Thinking Big From Day One

From the very beginning, Ioana refused to think small. “I never wanted a local business — I wanted to create an empire,”she says. That bold mindset, combined with her fearless willingness to take risks, elevated her from a local entrepreneur into one of Europe’s most powerful businesswomen.

Building a Full-Service Powerhouse

Her agency is now a full-service wedding powerhouse with 35 elite specialists, delivering over 150 world-class events annually for clients from across the globe. While many in the industry cling to tradition, Ioana has embraced innovation, integrating AI technology to streamline operations, boost efficiency, and ensure flawless execution. Her approach proves that even in an emotional, creative industry, data and technology can be transformative.

Expanding Her Influence Beyond Weddings

Beyond building weddings, Ioana has built influence. She is a sought-after international speaker at top business and wedding industry conferences, where she shares hard-earned insights and learns from global peers.

Recognition on the Global Stage

The world has taken notice, honoring her with prestigious accolades such as:

• Prestige Award for Weddings – London 2021
• Business Elite Awards – Top 40 Under 40 Women in Business in Europe – Istanbul 2022
• Luxury Lifestyle Award – Wedding Sector – New York 2021 & 2023
• BrideLux – Venice 2023
• EWPC Award – Upcoming Wedding Planner of the Year – Bodrum 2024
• Eventex Award – Events & Experience Marketing (Global) – 2024

Building More Than Weddings — A Legacy

Ioana Șelner is not simply building weddings — she is building a legacy. Her story is proof that when you have the courage to think globally from the very beginning, there are no limits to how far your vision can take you.