Engage 09 Something Blue, Something Amazing Part I

momental_designs 29-Jun-09 11.11.53

I arrived in Cayman last Friday 2 days ahead of the much anticipated start to Engage09: Something Blue.  Last October Engage08:The Encore was an exciting taste of all the luxury wedding industry has to offer and needless to say I was hooked!   Amazingly smart individuals, big ideas and savvy networking are all reasons I just had to return for Engaging Concepts 3rd smash event.

My time in Cayman began with a day and a half to enjoy the silky white sand and crystal blue waters.   The cool touch of the ocean water let me know instantly I was in for the time of my life.  The staff at The Ritz Carlton, Grand Cayman made every moment delicious.  My time during the first two days was not all play however as I was prepping for the Something Blue television interview on Sunday.  Poolside work however is much more palatable I must say…

After my interview on Sunday (which I had a blast with, more to come on that) I had drinks by the pool with about 12 ladies.  Excitement filled the air as countless boxes of orchids, trays of food and wine passed by on the way to the beach.  We could hardly wait!

The official launch of the three day event with a spectacular beachside celebration designed by Michelle Rago.  A Manzanita tree dripping with white orchids was the centerpiece to a stylish evening.  I just loved the lanterns scattered in the sand as well as the live Ragaae band playing from a boat bouncing in the ocean.

momental_designs 29-Jun-09 11.34.09

Thanks to The Bride’s Guide for the bottom right photos of tables.

The mood was spirited, textured and warm.  Dark wood tables and woven seats were sprinkled across the sand for effortless chats and the enjoyment of good food and drink.  Linen covered cushions and scattered pattern pillows mimicked the silky white sands and crystal blue waters.  I loved how the lights of the evening spilled over the sand to create a rich orchestra of shadows and textures.

I had the chance to chat with so many interesting individuals.  It was exciting to finally meet Karen from Karen Tran Florals and chat about our wedding stationery collaboration last month.   Danielle from Octupus Events had great insight regarding the warm Cayman climate and the beautiful events she orchestrates.   Hearing insights from planners across the nation was great fun for me and the ladies pictured below were never short of inspiration.

momental_designs 29-Jun-09 10.57.18From left, Sara from Bella Note,  Renee from It’s Eventful,  Daniela from Bella Signature Designme,  Vicky from Event Accomplished LLC

So much more to come!