From the catwalks of New York to the skyline of Mumbai, one entrepreneur’s journey has taken an unexpected yet inspiring turn. The Nook, a chic rooftop event studio, stands as a testament to the power of creative vision and adaptability. In this exclusive interview, we explore how a background in fashion styling has been transformed into a unique approach to event spaces, bringing a fresh perspective to Mumbai’s hospitality scene.
Join us as we uncover the story behind The Nook, In conversation with Rashi Morbia Kumar
1. What inspired you to create The Nook, and how does it reflect your vision for event spaces in Mumbai?
Response: The inspiration for creating The Nook was driven by my deep passion for designing beautiful and functional spaces. My background in fashion has cultivated a keen eye for detail and aesthetics, which naturally translated into a love for interior design. I wanted to introduce something fresh and exciting to Mumbai, starting with a unique, intimate space that could bring joy and elegance to various events. The Nook embodies my vision of creating versatile, visually captivating environments that enhance the experience for every guest and provide a memorable backdrop for special occasions.
2. Can you walk us through your journey from studying at Berkeley College to working in Bollywood, and how these experiences influenced your approach to The Nook?
Response: My deep passion for fashion always drove me, but I never felt a strong inclination toward fashion design. Instead, I knew I wanted to be involved in the fashion industry, but I wasn’t certain of the exact path to take. When a friend introduced me to the concept of fashion marketing, it immediately intrigued me. I decided to pursue this interest by enrolling in a one-year diploma course in Fashion Marketing at Berkeley College in New York. This express course provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the business side of fashion, which was exactly what I was seeking. Although my career later shifted from fashion styling to event planning and space management, the skills and insights gained from this course helped shape my approach to creating and managing unique spaces like The Nook.
3. The Nook is described as a chic event studio. How does your background in fashion styling inform the aesthetic and design choices of the space?
Response: My background in fashion styling profoundly influences the aesthetic and design choices at The Nook. My journey began with a deep passion for fashion and a fascination with how style could transform appearances and boost confidence. After returning from New York in 2009, I delved into fashion styling, finding it to be a perfect blend of my love for fashion and hands-on creativity. Working with various designers and stylists allowed me to refine my eye for detail and understand the impact of visual presentation. This experience directly informs The Nook’s chic and sophisticated design, as I strive to create spaces that are not only visually captivating but also exude elegance and enhance the overall experience, much like a well-curated fashion ensemble.
4. What unique challenges did you face transitioning from the fashion industry to the hospitality sector, and how did you overcome them?
Response:Transitioning from the fashion industry to the hospitality sector presented several unique challenges. One major challenge was adapting my creative vision from fashion styling to the design and functionality of event spaces. The focus shifted from individual styling elements to creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere for a variety of events. Another challenge was understanding the operational aspects of hospitality, such as managing events, coordinating with vendors, and meeting diverse client needs. To overcome these challenges, I leveraged my background in fashion to bring a fresh perspective to space design, focusing on aesthetics and detail. I invested time in learning about the hospitality industry through research and networking with industry professionals. Additionally, I embraced a hands-on approach, gaining practical experience by working on small projects and gradually expanding my expertise. This blend of creative vision and practical learning helped me successfully navigate the transition and bring a unique touch to The Nook.
5. The Nook offers end-to-end solutions for events. Can you elaborate on what this entails and how it sets you apart in the Mumbai event scene?
Response: At The Nook, our end-to-end event solutions encompass everything needed to create a seamless and memorable experience. Located in a prime Mumbai area, our venue is easily accessible and ideal for various events. We offer a unique blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, including a stunning rooftop terrace with unobstructed skyline views. Our sophisticated interiors are designed to provide natural light and a customizable setting for any theme or occasion. The vibrant energy and meticulously curated spaces enhance the overall atmosphere. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive range of services, including top-notch catering, decoration, and alcohol partners, ensuring every detail is expertly managed. This holistic approach sets us apart in the Mumbai event scene, delivering a truly exceptional experience.
6. Your attention to detail is evident in The Nook’s design. Can you share a specific element of the space that you’re particularly proud of and why?
Response: One element of The Nook that I’m particularly proud of is the venue’s openness. The design features no obstructive beams or windows, which creates a spacious and uninterrupted flow throughout the area. This openness enhances the grand, larger-than-life feel of the space, allowing for a truly immersive experience. It contributes significantly to the venue’s aesthetic, making it feel both elegant and expansive. This design choice helps set a sophisticated tone and provides a versatile backdrop for any event.
7. As someone with a “knack for innovation,” how do you stay ahead of trends in the event industry while maintaining The Nook’s unique identity?
Response: To stay ahead of trends while maintaining The Nook’s unique identity, I focus on blending innovation with our established framework. The Nook operates within a structured and professional setup, which ensures consistency, quality, and exceptional customer service. By continuously researching emerging trends and integrating them thoughtfully, we enhance our offerings without compromising our distinctive charm. This approach allows us to stay relevant and innovative while upholding the unique atmosphere and standards that define The Nook.
8. The rooftop location of The Nook is quite striking. How does this setting enhance the events hosted there, and what inspired this choice?
Response: The striking rooftop location of The Nook significantly enhances the events hosted there by offering a versatile and visually captivating setting. Our space includes a stylish indoor area, a spacious rooftop terrace, and a well-equipped service kitchen. The rooftop terrace is a highlight, providing unobstructed views of the skyline, which adds a unique and memorable element to any event. The inspiration behind incorporating a rooftop terrace was to create a dynamic venue where guests can enjoy stunning vistas and a special ambiance. This setting is perfect for a range of events—whether it’s a wedding, corporate gathering, or casual celebration. The ability to customize the space for various needs has been incredibly rewarding, as it allows us to provide unforgettable experiences and special moments for our guests.
9. You’ve been described as a visionary shaping the future of hospitality in Mumbai. What’s your long-term vision for The Nook and the event industry in the city?
Response: My long-term vision for The Nook and the event industry in Mumbai focuses on embracing the growing demand for unique, luxurious, and versatile event spaces. I foresee significant growth in this sector, as clients increasingly seek personalized and memorable experiences. The Nook is well-positioned to meet these needs with its distinctive offerings and customizable features. Additionally, the trend toward structured and professional frameworks in space hospitality will continue to evolve. By maintaining our commitment to consistency, quality, and exceptional customer service, The Nook aims to set new standards and shape the future of hospitality in Mumbai.
10. For aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the hospitality sector, what advice would you give based on your experience creating and running The Nook?
Response: For aspiring entrepreneurs entering the hospitality sector, my advice is to embrace both the challenges and the rewards of the journey. Creating and running The Nook has taught me that starting a business is a rollercoaster with its share of ups and downs. There will be times when you question everything, but remember that setbacks are often setups for comebacks. Focus on your path rather than comparing yourself to others. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and a commitment to learning and improvement will serve you well. As I’ve learned through my own experiences, “Setbacks are setups for comebacks.”
As we conclude our conversation, it’s evident that The Nook represents more than just a beautiful event space—it’s a reflection of Mumbai’s evolving aspirations and a blueprint for the future of hospitality. By blending fashion-inspired aesthetics with innovative event solutions, The Nook has carved out a unique niche in a competitive industry. The journey from fashion to hospitality may seem unconventional, but it’s this very uniqueness that sets The Nook apart. As Mumbai continues to grow and change, spaces like The Nook will play a crucial role in shaping the city’s social and cultural landscape. For aspiring entrepreneurs, The Nook’s story serves as a powerful reminder that with vision, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace new challenges, it’s possible to create something truly extraordinary. In the dynamic world of events and hospitality, The Nook isn’t just keeping pace—it’s setting the trend.
