Planners Dining Club: Long Awaited Joy at Blantyre

One of our greatest joys that we found ourselves missing the most during the past year or so was the collaboration and camaraderie of our planners dining club. The chance to build community and experience new inspiration and vendors together was put on hold, like so many aspects of our work. And as we all found a way to keep our work and our creativity alight, we were thrilled when it was time to find a way to come together safely. It was such a joy to create an event to be enjoyed by fellow planners, again. The collaboration and excitement shared is a special kind of magic. And what better place to escape the city and reunite with friends and colleagues than a private estate nestled in the Berkshires?

It was at Blantyre Resort that we found ourselves together again. Greetings and hugs were shared, post-screenings, of course. We then began our weekend with welcome drinks and a tour of the sprawling estate, where we learned about the resort’s memorable offerings and history while sipping welcome cocktails. The tour ended on the lawn, where an all female brass band delighted us all. As the band played on, we all enjoyed lawn games such as croquet and corn hole, taking in the moments of levity and relaxation that we all needed.

For the design of the evening, we were inspired by the significance of the first event together and the celebratory weekend itself. Bright colors in all aspects of the design mirrored the celebratory atmosphere we wanted to instill. Drawing from the elegance of the estate, we leaned into the balance of old and new. We had the joy of hand selecting vintage china from Blantyre’s collection for each table setting. Fourteen Forty created custom acrylic dots of color that lay within each of the decorative dishes. These circles of joy served as both menu and seating card for each of the guests. Mimosa Floral created a playful display of florals in the most vibrant of shades. These bolts of color paired with the nostalgic elements of the estate helped set the tone perfectly.

In the evening, cocktails were shared in the outdoor courtyard, where guests were met with a surprise double rainbow after a light shower. We couldn’t have planned such a magical moment better ourselves. Later, an elaborate three course meal was served within their Café Boulud. Their seasonal and locally sourced menu wowed our tastebuds. The food was divine and the company even better. After our delicious meal, we were led into their hideaway below the estate for the after party. Within this cave-like atmosphere, we nestled in and enjoyed a relaxing light and sound bath. But in true fashion for this group, it quickly turned into a joyous dance party. We danced and chatted the night away, celebrating our reconnection.

It was a reunion of friends and colleagues. A long awaited gathering to escape and reconnect. We found hope and deepened our relationships, all while enjoying the splendor and exploration of Blantyre. We are so thankful for Vow Digital Health, who ensured that our event was held safely, and for Genevieve de Manio Photography, who captured our time together. There is so much joy to be had in togetherness. So much we can learn and explore together. And we are thankful that our planners dining club was able to bring us together again.