Masterclass 2022
Photography JOSE VILLA
The fifth annual Wedding Planner Masterclass was held at the spectacular Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch in Wyoming, a property that enveloped our group by snowy, rugged mountains and crisp, high-altitude air.
The mission was to transport our industry colleagues to a wintery retreat inspired by the Swiss alps. The welcome party set a festive tone - as friends old and new connected for an immersive two-day educational masterclass experience. Guests enjoyed a multi-coursed meal in the Cowboy Chapel & Dance Hall surrounded by a bright palette designed to feel like a breath of fresh air with fragrant florals and foraged leaves by Sarah Winward and team. The tabletop felt feminine yet refined, and the expertly procured plates by xowyo + co events anchored the entire design - from linens to the custom pillows awaiting every guest. Elan Artists played soft bluegrass music in the background.
The next day’s group experience started outdoors, as we experienced a styled ceremony scene with bridal fashion inspired by magnificent natural surroundings. Sarah Winward created the most beautiful and elegant florals that adorned the 100 foot painted wood walkway by Hensley Event Resources that led all the way to the custom circular altar platform, nestled within the dramatic rocks around us, which lent a larger-than-life impact. All styled by top bridal fashion experts Carrie Lauren, Stephanie Alexandris and Heidi Johnson of The Wedding Detailor.
Our sensational farewell dinner was hosted in the Saddle Barn. The design was punctuated by a custom oversized photograph of wild horses in the snow covered mountains by Jose Villa that mirrored the sense of place we had all enjoyed for two days. The vision was focused on bringing comfort and warmth to an otherwise wintery season - the perfect sendoff for our 40 guests. A boutique tabletop company in Wyoming, xowyo + co events, dressed the long table with monochromatic settings. Leather-covered menus by Yonder Design were accentuated by calligraphy by Tara Jones Calligraphy. The soft glow of candlelight created warmth and the custom square bar by Hensley Event Resources left every guest in awe. Spectacular music by Elan Artists set the mood throughout the evening with a set of strings and then with a more contemporary group for post dinner dancing. Urban Parlour provided the perfect lounge vignettes that encouraged conversation and connectivity.
The design for Masterclass 2022 came to life through tactile composition as well. The invitation and on site materials from Yonder Design, incorporated materials that depicted this unique region and Masterclass vision flawlessly. The invitation featured a lined leather envelope personalized with a metal concho tied with a custom leather strap. Accoutrements included a cotton bandanna scarf, a linen covered folio, a laser etched wood frame with herringbone wool - the details made the biggest impact and built anticipation in a subtle yet definitive way.
