We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tony Palacio a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Tony with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
Growing up in a small town, I was fortunate to be surrounded by family who worked hard and created opportunities not just for themselves, but for me too. My grandparents owned a few local businesses, and from a young age, I learned that if I wanted something—a new scooter, a pair of shoes—I had to earn it. That often meant sweeping floors, running errands, or helping out wherever I was needed. Those early lessons instilled in me a deep respect for hard work and a sense of pride in earning what you have. I believe when you’re raised to work for what you want, it builds a work ethic that stays with you, no matter where life takes you.”
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a wedding planner based in Arizona, and I specialize in full-service planning, and design for weddings and events across the globe. I’m also a proud queer-owned business, and that’s something that shapes how I connect with my couples and how I create space for love in all its forms. What excites me most is being invited into such a meaningful chapter in someone’s life and helping bring their story to life in a way that feels personal, intentional, and full of heart.
My approach is very hands-on—my couples aren’t just clients to me, they become friends. From the first consult to the last dance, I’m in it with them, making sure every detail reflects who they are. Whether it’s scouting the perfect desert backdrop, designing custom florals, or curating a weekend experience with layered moments, I’m always thinking about how to make it feel elevated but deeply personal.
Right now, I’m focused on growing my destination offerings—planning weddings that aren’t just events, but experiences.
My brand is all about warmth, creativity, and authenticity. I want folks to feel seen, celebrated, and completely taken care of. That’s the magic I try to bring to every event.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, the three qualities that have shaped my journey most are resilience, intuition, and the ability to connect with people.
Resilience has been essential—especially in an industry that’s equal parts beautiful and unpredictable. Events don’t always go as planned, timelines shift, emotions run high, and you have to be able to stay grounded, think quickly, and keep everyone calm. I’ve learned that it’s not about avoiding challenges, but about how you show up when they happen.
Intuition plays a huge role in my design work and in how I serve my clients. Understanding what a couple truly wants—sometimes before they even have the words for it—comes from listening deeply and trusting that inner voice. It’s something you develop over time, but it starts with being really present and curious.
Connection is the heart of what I do. Building relationships, not just with clients, but with vendors, venues, and creatives in the industry, is what makes this work sustainable and fulfilling. When you lead with kindness, integrity, and collaboration, people remember that—and those relationships carry you forward.
For anyone early in their journey: say yes to the opportunities that scare you a little, stay humble, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Learn by doing, find mentors who inspire you, and trust that your unique perspective is your superpower. The magic is in how you see the world—lean into that.
Do you think it’s better to go all in on our strengths or to try to be more well-rounded by investing effort on improving areas you aren’t as strong in?
I think there’s real power in going all in on your strengths—but with self-awareness. When you know what you’re naturally great at, and you lean into that, your work starts to feel aligned. It flows. That’s where confidence builds, where your creativity expands, and where your brand really starts to take shape.
But I also believe in surrounding yourself with people who fill in the gaps. Trying to be great at everything can burn you out and dilute the magic you’re really meant to bring to the table.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tonypalacio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonypalacio/
Image Credits
Brookklyn Photo
Annie Morgan Photography
Ryann Lindsey Photography
Jen Jinkens Photography
Brittany Nemec Photography
Megan Rae Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
