In a groundbreaking move for the luxury wedding planning sector, Engage! Retreat made waves with its inaugural event at sea in March 2023. Founded by industry veterans Kathryn Arce and Rebecca Grinnals in 2008, Engage! has consistently brought together leading figures in the wedding and events industry for stimulating and innovative experiences. This latest retreat, aboard The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Evrima, marked a significant evolution in their approach, attracting 150 esteemed attendees to enjoy a three-day immersive experience across picturesque locations such as St. Barths and Anguilla.
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The Engage! Retreat has gained a reputation as a prominent masterclass tailored for wedding planners, photographers, and various vendors. Over its 18-year history, the event has offered individuals from around the globe a unique platform to connect, collaborate, and inspire one another. Reflecting on the evolution of Engage!, Arce and Grinnals expressed their commitment to crafting distinctive experiences, stating, “We are always looking for innovative, unique luxury experiences to offer. Each of our 53 events has been truly unique, not just in location but also in the incredibly talented individuals who come together.”
Among the attendees at this luxurious retreat were renowned planners such as Jennifer Zabinski, Lynn Easton, and Michelle Rago. With an engaging blend of peer-led discussions and insights from industry experts, participants had ample opportunity to share ideas and strategies to propel their businesses forward. Event leaders Arce and Grinnals noted that the collective talents of those who attend continue to inspire them, creating a vibrant atmosphere for growth and creative exchange. “They truly want to be the best they can be for their discerning clients,” they emphasised.
The retreat was punctuated by various events and discussions that allowed participants to explore current trends and industry challenges. Among these, bridal designer Hayley Paige conducted a candid Q&A about her recent battle with a former employer that resulted in her temporarily losing control over her brand. Having successfully reclaimed her identity, Paige looks forward to continuing her influence in the wedding fashion sector, recently unveiling a new collection at New York Bridal Fashion Week.
Notable moments during the retreat included an engaging panel discussion led by luxury planner Lynn Easton of Easton Events, who has an impressive portfolio that includes A-list celebrity clients. The vibrant atmosphere was further highlighted by red-themed parties and celebratory gatherings, which fostered camaraderie amongst the elite attendees, allowing them to network in a relaxed setting.
Guests aboard the Evrima enjoyed a stunning backdrop for their discussions and festivities, noted Harold Torres, Vice President of Global Charter and Group Sales for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. He remarked on how the ship’s unique design enhances the event experience, emphasising the integration of luxury and thoughtful service to create unforgettable memories at sea.
The retreat also offered attendees opportunities for intimate discussions over gourmet meals onshore. During stops at renowned locations such as Eden Rock and Le Toiny, planners savoured exquisite food while sharing insights in smaller, focused groups, further cultivating a culture of creativity and collaboration.
Evenings on the Evrima transformed into vibrant social events, with attendees dressed impeccably for themed nights featuring cocktails, comedy, and cabaret performances. This blend of high-end entertainment and professional development helped solidify the connections formed throughout the retreat, energising attendees for their transformative efforts ahead.
Evrima itself provided a lavish setting for the retreat, boasting luxurious amenities such as 149 suites, five restaurants, and multiple lounges. With its Greek-inspired name meaning “discovery,” the yacht was an apt choice for this gathering, symbolising the exploration of new ideas and innovations in luxury wedding planning.
As the event wrapped up, attendees left with not only valuable knowledge and skills but also newly forged connections with some of the most successful professionals in the sector. Engage! Retreat’s voyage this year was not just a retreat; it was a celebration of the collective power of the luxury event planning industry, showcasing the inspiration and collaboration that drive its evolution. Looking forward, the anticipation for the next Engage! event continues to build, as professionals eagerly await the next opportunity to embark on another journey of discovery and networking in the enchanting world of luxury weddings.