Transported and Inspired
There are events that feel beautifully produced and then there are events that feel deeply intentional. The January Orange County brunch hosted by Société Privée was unmistakably the latter.
Held at the breathtaking The Ranch at Laguna Beach, this curated gathering brought together entrepreneurs, creatives, and industry leaders for a morning rooted in connection, conversation, and community. Leading up to the event, there were quiet nerves about rain, the kind that naturally accompany an outdoor-leaning gathering in January, but the morning unfolded beautifully. Soft light filtered through the canyon, the air felt fresh and calm, and the setting became even more magical than imagined.
As someone who photographs coastal hotels and elevated hospitality spaces, I’m always drawn to venues that feel transportive and places that gently pull you out of your everyday surroundings. The Ranch did exactly that. With its rolling hills, lush greenery, and canyon views, it transported me straight back to my honeymoon in New Zealand… breathtaking, wildly green, and almost otherworldly in its beauty. It’s rare to find that kind of landscape tucked so seamlessly into Southern California.
As both a Société Privée member and the photographer for this brunch, it was an honor to document not only how the morning looked, but how it felt, especially knowing this was Société Privée’s first event of the year, setting the tone for everything to come.
One Hundred Candles & Thoughtful Design
Design played an intimate but powerful role throughout the morning. Long communal tables were adorned with one hundred glowing candles, intentionally placed to create warmth and a sense of calm. The candlelight softened the space, encouraging guests to linger and connect in an unhurried way.
The candle design by Luxury Candles California added a luminous glow that elevated the tablescape without overpowering it, a perfect example of how subtle details can leave a lasting impression.
A Planner Panel Rooted in Experience
One of the most meaningful moments of the brunch was a planner-led panel discussion that felt honest, generous, and deeply encouraging. Featuring Lorie Lou, Natalie Good Haderlie, and Nahid Global Events, the conversation offered insight shaped by real-world experience.
Rather than feeling formal, the panel felt like an open table, one where wisdom was shared freely, questions were welcomed, and community was prioritized. It added depth to the gathering and reinforced what Société Privée does so beautifully: creating space for meaningful dialogue.
Elevated Hospitality & Personal Touches
Hospitality was woven into every part of the experience. Guests enjoyed a champagne and bar station, a made-to-order omelet station, a waffle bar, and a thoughtfully curated parfait station.
I’m still thinking about that delicious and decadent egg, bacon, ham, and bell pepper omelet, which was absolutely incredible. I also deeply appreciated the dairy-free option at the parfait station… those small, thoughtful details make guests feel genuinely cared for and considered.
The rentals by Bright Event Rentals paired seamlessly with the refined tabletop design by Creative Coverings, curated alongside Samantha, creating a look that felt elegant, warm, and welcoming.
Photographing Connection, Not Just an Event
My approach to event photography has always been rooted in intuition, knowing when to step in and when to quietly disappear. This brunch was filled with moments that didn’t need direction: soft laughter, thoughtful pauses, and conversations that clearly mattered.
Those are the moments I’m most drawn to preserving, the ones that feel honest, unforced, and deeply authentic.
Gratitude, Trust & Looking Ahead to 2026
Being part of Société Privée is something I don’t take lightly. I am sitting at a table with luxury industry giants, soaking everything in, and building a community that actually builds each other up. I’m incredibly appreciative of their belief in me and for trusting me to document their first event of the year, a moment that carries so much intention and significance.
Here’s to 2026, more coastal bliss, more brunching, more community, more intention, and more luminous moments…
Joyfully,
Jenny Garrett
1/10/26
