Leap into Luxury

In this episode of LEAP Into Luxury, Natalie and MJ are joined by Alisia Devletouglou, Brand Manager at EssilorLuxottica, to explore the evolving role of experiential marketing in the luxury sector. With a background spanning Dior Fragrances and global eyewear brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley, Alisia brings a cross-category perspective on creating impactful brand experiences.The conversation unpacks how experiential marketing has shifted from one-off events to a core strategic pillar, driven by rising expectations for personalisation, exclusivity, and emotional connection. Alisia shares the universal principles that underpin successful activations, from strong storytelling to meticulous attention to detail.She also discusses the complexities of managing experiences across multiple brands and markets—balancing global consistency with local relevance—while maintaining each brand’s unique identity. Beyond execution, the episode explores how success is measured, the challenges of delivering standout experiences in a competitive space, and how sustainability is becoming an essential consideration.Looking ahead, Alisia highlights key trends shaping the future of experiential marketing and leaves listeners with a clear takeaway: the most powerful luxury experiences are those that feel personal, purposeful, and impossible to replicate.Hosts: Natalie Lennon & MJ Neill (nee Evely) Guest: Alisia DevletouglouCreated by: LEAP LuxeSound Production: Housestudios 

In this episode of LEAP Into Luxury, Natalie and MJ are joined by Regitse Rosenvinge, founder of Rose PR, to explore the rise of quiet luxury in hospitality. Moving away from overt displays of wealth, quiet luxury focuses on authenticity, craftsmanship, and meaningful, understated experiences.With deep expertise in the Scandinavian market, Regitse shares early signals behind this shift and the cultural drivers shaping it—from evolving guest expectations to a growing emphasis on mindfulness, sustainability, and discretion.The conversation also examines whether quiet luxury is truly new or a modern return to timeless principles, and how brands can communicate it without saying it outright. From subtle storytelling to creating desire without spectacle, Regitse outlines the challenges and opportunities for marketers today.Hosts: Natalie Lennon & MJ Neill (nee Evely) Guest: Regitse RosenvingeCreated by: LEAP LuxeSound Production: Housestudios 

In this episode of LEAP into Luxury, Natalie and MJ speak with Laura Baker, Assistant Vice President of Corporate Communications at Shangri-La, about how luxury brands are “breaking the fourth wall” — moving past perfection to create genuine emotional connections.Drawing on her journey from PR and cabin crew to senior roles at IHG and Shangri-La, Laura shares how social media, creator collaborations, and user-generated content are reshaping what luxury means today. Together, they discuss how Shangri-La balances authenticity with brand excellence, measures success beyond engagement, and manages transparency in a digital world where every interaction counts.Hosts: Natalie Lennon & MJ Neill (nee Evely) Guest: Laura BakerCreated by: LEAP LuxeSound Production: Housestudios 

In this episode of LEAP Into Luxury, your hosts Natalie and MJ sit down with Andre Bogues, Global Luxury Culture and Content Lead at Diageo, for a much-needed conversation: bringing the fun and creativity back into luxury.The traditional, buttoned-up approach to luxury marketing is changing. As consumer expectations evolve, there's a growing necessity for luxury brands to embrace more imagination and fun in their brand storytelling. Natalie, MJ, and Andre discuss balancing exclusivity with approachability, revealing how a fresh wave of creative luxury marketing can differentiate and elevate brands in today's market. Learn why injecting fun isn't just an option, but a powerful strategy for luxury.Hosts: Natalie Lennon & MJ Evely Guest: Andre BoguesCreated by: LEAP LuxeSound Production: Housestudios 

In this month's episode, Natalie and MJ sit down with Lana Rush, Head of Marketing at OSPREY LONDON, to explore how a heritage British brand with deep artisanal roots is navigating the digital frontier. From preserving the founder’s original vision to building a seamless digital flagship experience, Lana reveals how to bring a heritage brand into the now, while staying true to the spirit that made it iconic.Hosts: Natalie Lennon & MJ Evely Guest: Lana RushCreated by: LEAP LuxeSound Production: Housestudios 

This month, we delve into the heart of authentic marketing within the luxury hospitality sector with Jatin Shastri, Director of Marketing and Communications at Six Senses. In a world saturated with curated perfection, we explore how Six Senses distinguishes itself by prioritising genuine connection and storytelling. Jatin shares the core philosophy that drives Six Senses' authentic approach, a crucial lesson for anyone looking to connect genuinely with their audience.Hosts: Natalie Lennon & MJ Evely Guest: Jatin ShastriCreated by: LEAP LuxeSound Production: Housestudios 

This month we're joined by Dan Challis, Head of Brand at Sana Jardin. Dan shares his insights on the power of micro-communities. We discuss the defining characteristics of these niche audiences, exploring their unique advantages over a mass-market approach, and how to cultivate the core values that bind them. Dan also addresses the challenges and opportunities presented by today's digital landscape.We delve into Sana Jardin's approach to cultivating micro-communities both online and offline, and Dan reveals how he measures the success of these efforts. He offers valuable advice for aspiring luxury brand founders looking to leverage the power of micro-communities. Tune in for a masterclass in building brand loyalty and driving success in the luxury sector.Hosts: Natalie Lennon & MJ Evely Guest: Dan ChallisCreated by: LEAP LuxeSound Production: Housestudios 

What makes a luxury pop-up truly successful? Retail expert Xian Pelaez from Harrods joins us to discuss the art of crafting captivating pop-up experiences. We delve into the complexities of balancing brand identities, the strategic differences between pop-up approaches at iconic stores like Harrods and Bloomingdale's, and how to identify the perfect brand partnerships. We also explore how to measure a pop-up's impact beyond just sales figures, looking at brand awareness, customer engagement, and long-term loyalty. Xian shares valuable lessons learned from both successes and challenges, offering insights into common pitfalls and best practices. Plus, she shares inspiring examples of brands that have truly nailed the pop-up brief and offers a glimpse into the future of pop-up retail in the luxury market.Hosts: Natalie Lennon & MJ Evely Guest: Xian PelaezCreated by: LEAP LuxeSound Production: Housestudios 

In this episode, we speak with Alice Langston from French skincare brand Caudalie. Alice shares invaluable insights on the importance of localisation for luxury brands, highlighting how Caudalie adapts its marketing strategies to resonate with the UK market. We discuss the nuances of transcreation, media planning, and navigating regulatory challenges. Alice also shares how Caudalie personalises its marketing to British consumers and explores emerging trends in the luxury sector. This episode offers a fascinating look into the world of luxury skincare and the strategies behind successful international expansion.Hosts: Natalie Lennon & MJ Evely Guest: Alice LangstonCreated by: LEAP LuxeSound Production: Housestudios 

Spirit of Yorkshire, an independent and high-quality whiskey brand, has successfully balanced its premium image with its down-to-earth heritage. In this episode of LEAP into Luxury, Marketing Director Jenni Ashwood discusses how the brand targets diverse audiences, from collectors to eco-conscious consumers, and adapts its brand message for international markets. She shares insights on building brand authenticity and creating a strong brand identity that resonates with consumers worldwide.Hosts: Natalie Lennon & MJ Evely Guest: Jenni AshwoodCreated by: LEAP LuxeSound Production: Housestudios