Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
I was fortunate enough to attend Engage!11 Grand Del Mar at the tail-end of May/early June. It was definitely something on my bucket list, and as a Luxury Wedding Industry Summit, it proved absolutely priceless when it came to education and networking for the luxury wedding market. In fact, I will be going back.
Too often, I go on these trips and then get swept up in the daily to-do list without having documented my experiences or shared then with few – I vowed to not let this be the case this time. With that said, I wanted to at least give a brief overview of my takeaways from Engage!11.
A short plane ride to San Diego and I was quickly in a cab (along with Christy of Trisha Dean Events) to check-in to the lush Grand Del Mar Resort. Upon arrival, we grabbed a quick bite to each and then registered. I was in awe over the incredible floral wedding gown created by Karen Tran to accent the registration area. I was also in awe of the fabulous gift bag stuffed with goodies from Fantasy Frostings, Katy Carrier, Paloma’s Nest, Tejani Jewelry and so much more!
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
After a quick refresher in the room, we headed to the Opening Reception where we heard the ever-fabulous Simon T. Bailey speak about Vuja De. He encouraged us not to get stuck in a rut, to look at things with a fresh eye constantly and be willing to run with what life brings you. We also got a little meditation from David Beahm on the concept of the Golden Ratio – a favorite long-time study of mine. It was a excellent way to start off the week, leaving our minds hungry and open for what was to come!
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
One of the best parts about Engage!11, was that there was inspiration just about everywhere you looked! The decor was fantastic – and the Opening Reception was not lacking in that department of all. The theme of Red, Black and White was cohesive throughout – without ever getting too early 90’s. Of course, when there are New York linens from La Tavola, how can a Planner complain?
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
To close Day 1, we headed to the Welcome Party – a feast for the eyes and the palate! The gorgeous rustic modern details helped blend in the kitschy fun of food trucks scattered across the lawn. A live band with sculptural instruments was the focal point of the party – and of course, cocktails and dancing abounded. Good Lord, that fresh mushroom poutine was good!
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
I was lucky enough to spend most of my time with these fabulous ladies – Trisha and Christy of Trisha Dean Events, Amy Nichols, Daniela Ferdico Faget of Bella Signature Design, Katy Carrier and Julie Jones of Encore Bridal. Love those girls!
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of Mel Barlow & Co.
Image courtesy of epod
Next Up: Day Two!
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