Connection, Creativity & Community: A Recap of Kindred Collective Bend 2025
An unforgettable gathering of the wedding industry’s most inspiring creatives set against the natural beauty of Bend, Oregon.
Photography by Emma Burke, represented by Luago Agency
There are events, and then there are experiences that shift you—body, mind, and soul. Kindred Collective in Bend, Oregon was one of those moments.
As one of the premier invite-only gatherings for the world’s top wedding planners, photographers, and cinematographers, Kindred Collective has always been about more than networking. It’s about deep connection. Shared growth. Raw, authentic conversations. And this year’s event delivered all of that and more.
We began our time together with outdoor cocktail hours under the Oregon sky—an easeful start that allowed everyone to meet and mingle before diving in. But what followed next was the true heart of the experience: a moment of collective vulnerability. Each attendee was invited to release insecurities into a glowing fire, setting the tone for a day of intention, reflection, and true community.
Throughout the day, we broke bread together, engaged in 1:1 meetings that led to meaningful collaborations, and gathered in group sessions designed to spark dialogue and fuel ideas. As someone who deeply values building community in our industry, this felt like a powerful reminder that we grow stronger—together.
The evening unfolded like a dream: a golden cocktail hour on a private island, followed by an unforgettable dinner in the on-site cave—yes, a literal cave—designed with such beauty and intimacy that it felt like stepping into a storybook. The conversations flowed just as easily as the wine, with laughter echoing off stone walls and new friendships taking root by candlelight.
The next day, as we wrapped up with immersive excursions and heartfelt goodbyes, one truth stood clear: connection is the real currency in this work we do. And I feel honored to be part of such a passionate and talented group of creatives.
I’m even more thrilled to share that I’ll be returning in January as a discussion leader at Kindred Punta Mita, where we’ll gather again—this time in Mexico—for another round of intentional connection, inspired learning, and unforgettable moments. Learn more here.
Deepest gratitude to the visionaries and creatives who brought Bend 2025 to life:
Photography: @annigraham (represented by @aia.mgmt)
Film: @emmak_films (represented by @luago.agency)
Venue: @juniperpreserve
Planning + Design: @indigoeventdesign
Florals: @swoon_floraldesign, @seventhstem, @selvadesignhouse
Stationery + Signage: @papertreestudio
Rentals: Tabletop @casadeperrin, Furniture @ardeneventcollective, Linens @bbjlatavola
Cocktail Sponsors: @pictime_us
HMUA: @ckennedybeauty
Sound + DJ: @audio.visions.plus and @highergroundentertainment
Lighting: @jacobco_creative
Custom Details: @scriptonthis, @the_handkerchief_shop, @mydrap_northamerica
Artist Styling: @sonicsommelier, @theitbrides, @amsale
On-Site + Digital Support: @cupidcontentco, @masterfully.managed, @alexznicolen, @backupbackdrops
Weather Reports (yes, really!): @ironicreports
I left Bend feeling refreshed, re-centered, and more connected to the work I’m called to do. Grateful for the beauty of the moment—and even more grateful for the community that made it all possible.
See you in Mexico.
