Emergence Nashville

Our winter event was held in Nashville, Tennessee at the Alabaster Collective. We had two Guest Hosts for this Emergence experience: Jessica Sloane and Aislinn McKenna.

Jessica Sloane is a destination wedding planner who is known for her interesting and beautiful aesthetics. Through client collaboration, she is widely known as someone who is able to tell a compelling story through interesting spaces. When working a wedding, the event is approached as an outward expression of the couple’s relationship, taking into account elements of their journey and weaving in personalized elements with an eye for the natural environment. Jessica spoke about the overall design process. Specifically how she hones in on the client's vision and then expanding that process further to discuss vendor collaboration, how she chooses her vendor team, and how she prefers to communicate and work alongside her vendor team. Attendees got to learn the “why” when it came to networking. “Why do I want to connect with this vendor? And do their values align with mine?” 

Aislinn McKenna was our second guest host. Aislinn is a hybrid photographer, educator, and mindset cheerleader. Aislinn coaches 7 figure business owners and loves helping creatives see what is possible when they have a healthy mindset. She discussed the idea of Embodiment: Becoming Our Next Level Selves. She taught attendees how to recognize limiting beliefs and then trained them on how to flip the script so those limiting beliefs are transformed into positive affirmations. Aislinn is known in the wedding industry for her ideals on mindset and affirmations and we were thrilled she could join us for this event. We had multiple attendees say they left the class feeling transformed. 

Attendees got to participate in a fun cocktail session with Rhonda from Perfectly Cordial, a small batch cocktail mixer. This session was a hit across the board. It allowed attendees to have their minds rest and connect with other professionals in a fun and engaging setting. 

Allowing wedding professionals to create authentic and lasting relationships is at the heart of Emergence. Sharing a meal with others provides a sense of intimacy and openness that allows for real conversations to take place. Emergence was conceptualized with the building up and creating of relationships. But, how do we authentically begin these relationships? How can we create lasting connections within the wedding industry?

Emergence is a space where wedding professionals are surrounded by others who are there to uplift, encourage, and inspire. You are among other creatives looking to achieve the same heights. It’s a space where we aim to nurture and improve our industry to reach market and creative potential. 

Emergence is a retreat. An immersive experience for creative professionals to refuel. It’s a space where you are challenged, uplifted, and inspired. Our events heighten the senses and leave each of our attendees with new ideas and concepts. We are grateful to our Creative Partners who help bring this event to fruition.

Creative Direction: Samantha Joy Events
Floral Designer: Roots Floral Design
Guest Hosts: Jessica Sloane and Aislinn McKenna
Stationer: Ashley Frye Studio
Private Chef: The Salted Table
Linen Partner: BBJ Linen
Rentals: Please Be Seated
Venue: Alabaster Collective
Cocktail Partner: Perfectly Cordial
Photographer: Meredith Benton
Cinematopher: Ellen DiSorbo
Beauty: Canvas and Coif
Builder: Oakley and Hyde Designs

Evening Recap