Returning to Engage! — A Celebration of Creativity, Connection & Community
This December, I’m honored to return as a speaker for Engage!25 Santa Barbara, joining an extraordinary group of visionaries, tastemakers, and creative leaders shaping the future of luxury weddings and events.
It’s hard to put into words what this experience truly means. This will mark my fourth time speaking at Engage!, and each summit has offered something unique — not just in its breathtaking destinations, but in the powerful exchange of ideas, relationships, and inspiration it cultivates.
Photo: Daniel Colvin Photography | Engage Tuscany
Every Engage! experience feels like stepping into a living, breathing community of passion. It’s where artistry and innovation intersect — a space that challenges you to think differently, connect deeply, and continue evolving in your craft.
As an event designer and creative entrepreneur, I’ve always believed that growth happens in community. It’s through collaboration, storytelling, and shared experiences that we expand our perspectives and raise the standard for what’s possible in our industry.
Engage! has been that catalyst for me — a reminder that behind every celebration we design is a greater purpose: to connect people, evoke emotion, and create moments that live far beyond the event itself.
Photo by Ryann Lindsey
The Power of Connection
Over the years, I’ve met so many incredible peers through Engage! — planners, designers, photographers, creatives, and visionaries from all corners of the world. What unites us isn’t just our love for celebrations, but our shared pursuit of excellence, creativity, and meaning.
These experiences reaffirm my belief that when we lead with authenticity and collaboration, we all rise together. And that’s what I look forward to most in Santa Barbara — the opportunity to connect, learn, and inspire alongside so many talented minds shaping what’s next.
Photo by Ben Finch
Photo by Daniel Colvin Photography
As we prepare for Engage!25 Santa Barbara, I feel a deep sense of gratitude — for every opportunity to share what I’ve learned, and for the chance to continue evolving as both a creative and a leader.
To my fellow attendees and speakers: I can’t wait to see you there. Let’s continue to challenge convention, celebrate culture, and elevate the art of meaningful celebrations together.
To learn more about the Engage!25 Santa Barbara experience, visit: https://engagesummits.regfox.com/engage25-santa-barbara
P.S.
My book The Art of Celebrating: Inspiration and Ideas for Meaningful Gatherings comes out this December — a love letter to intentional design, connection, and the power of bringing people together.
Preorder your copy here.
More From Akeshi
Inspired by love, memory, and the art of meaningful celebrations.
Explore how I infuse heart, design, and storytelling into everything I create across my brands and platforms.
Kesh Events
Where luxury celebrations meet intentional design. Discover how we bring meaningful moments to life around the world.
The Art of Celebrating
A lifestyle destination inspired by connection, creativity, and culture. Explore hosting inspiration, recipes, design tips, and seasonal ideas for celebrating beautifully.
My New Book — The Art of Celebrating: Inspiration and Ideas for Meaningful Gatherings
Filled with stories, tips, and inspiration to help you create gatherings that matter.
Now available for presale → Pre-order here
The Kesh Experience
For wedding and event pros navigating business and life with heart. Discover mentorship, community, and strategy to help you build your signature brand.
