Effective event planning and management are vital in ensuring the seamless integration of various elements. From handling vendors to coordinating with guests, event management is essential for the success of any hospitality business. BR Cosmos stands as one of the foremost entities in the event management sector. Renowned for its excellence, the company oversees a spectrum of events, including government functions, corporate gatherings, and social occasions. Additionally, BR Cosmos offers comprehensive solutions for brand promotion and strategic brand positioning. At the helm of BR Cosmos, Managing Director Pallavi Bhat consistently delivers industry insights and introduces innovations every other day, positioning the company at the forefront of the field.

In an intimate interview with us, she shared about her professional and personal journey, the inside operations of the industry and also her future endeavours on a closer scale.

Guide us through the early years of your life. What were some significant early influences that moulded you into the person you are today?

I hail from an upper-middle-class family of four, with my father serving as a gazetted officer in the central government. Despite marrying early at 18, my mother, driven by determination, completed her graduation after my birth and pursued post-graduation after my brother's arrival. She holds a Master's in sociology, representing the last generation of such accomplishments in our family. With a younger brother, our family values education, and he pursued MS from Northwestern University in America, and an MBA from Chicago Booth. In contrast, I took a different path, earning my MBA from Indira Gandhi National Open University. My early exposure to public dealings, marketing, and advertising since the age of 11 or 12 sparked a desire to improve my quality of life. Also, my Master's in digital marketing from the University of Urbana Champagne, Illinois helped a lot. Observing the chaotic state of events and programs in the neighbourhood, I envisioned bringing organization and structure to them. This led to the inception of my career in event management, starting 15 years ago in the tier-two city of Bhopal. Now being based in Pune, I continue to implement innovative concepts in Madhya Pradesh, introducing ideas that I haven't observed in events in Pune or Mumbai. We have one branch at Bhopal too.

Share with us the key domains of expertise you've cultivated throughout your tenure as a business leader.

In terms of expertise, my primary focus lies in resource management and the creation of budget-friendly, tailor-made packages. I engage with vendors, urging them to enhance their services within the specified budget. A unique aspect of my specialization is promoting a healthy lifestyle, particularly in the realm of event catering. I'm introducing an innovative concept in the industry—weight management cuisines. This involves offering delicious yet nutritious options, such as a high-protein soya tikki burger, no cheese no maida vegan white sauce pasta ensuring attendees can indulge without worrying about weight gain, cholesterol, or other health concerns. My goal is to revolutionize the event industry, particularly catering services in Pune, making seamless events accessible without straining one's budget and prioritizing health and well-being. Additionally, I plan to launch a Healthy Weight Management menu soon.

Please acquaint us with BR Cosmos. What are the diverse responsibilities you undertake in your role as the Managing Director of the company?

BR Cosmos, originating in Bhopal marked the start of my entrepreneurial journey post-marriage. Established Pune branch just a year ago, the venture earned India's startup certification on December 8, 2023, a source of immense pride. Our mission is to transform dreams into reality, managing various events like birthdays, corporates, government functions, training programs, conferences, and brand launches. As the captain of the ship, I steer with valuable input from my husband, a partner with an M.Tech computer science from VJTI, Mumbai. Focusing on empowering women entrepreneurs, despite potential additional costs compared to male vendors, remains a dedicated aspect of our mission. BR Cosmos is only one year old because I had a baby girl in 2019 and didn't want to leave her unattended. After the Pune COVID setback in the event industry, things are finally back on track, and we are now fully operational. Due to our unique menu options and professional team, many banquet halls are approaching us for tie-ups, resulting in a lot of business.

Throw some light on the major challenges you encounter in your current role. How do you overcome the said roadblocks?

In the world of event management, a major challenge arises from clients desiring extensive services but being reluctant to allocate sufficient budgets. While clients express interest in unique additions like special entry of bride and groom or serving the food in silver crockery they often resist expanding their financial commitment. Consequently, to maintain event vibrancy, I frequently adjust profit margins, working with thin financial margins. Another challenge involves post-event payment delays, where clients request extended payment periods. Managing such financial intricacies requires a delicate balance, as income from one event is often reinvested in upcoming projects, particularly in scenarios of large-scale weddings. Additionally, I have a nine-year-old son, and balancing the demands of two children while working in the field of event management is undeniably challenging.

In your view, what are the most significant accomplishments you have attained thus far in your professional odyssey?

I've received numerous blessings and well-wishes from my parents for the birthday parties I've organized, witnessing the joy and happiness of families. Many of my customers are repeat clients, choosing to work with me for various events because they trust my services. One memorable incident involved a client who, unaware that I owned the company, expressed his extreme satisfaction with the event. He even wanted to transfer an additional amount to my personal account as a gesture of appreciation, marking a rare and gratifying moment in my 15-year journey.

What has been your success mantra over the years as a business leader?

I firmly believe in exceeding customer expectations by providing services valued far beyond what they pay for. Creating unforgettable experiences, such as offering extra elements to clients' preferences, is key to fostering lasting relationships. In my business, emotions play a crucial role as we navigate diverse scenarios, accommodating various preferences and resolving potential conflicts between different parties involved.

Pallavi Bhat, Managing Director, BR Cosmos

Pallavi Bhat is a Member of the Asian African chamber of commerce and industry. She is recognized as a prominent figure within the event services industry, where her leadership has earned her acclaim. Her diligent efforts reflect a commitment to advancing the landscape of event services through a combination of experience and a forward-thinking approach.