Western Design Conference 2009 in Jackson, WY

I just returned from being a juror at The 17th Annual Western Design Conference in BEAUTIFUL Jackson, Wyoming! What a tough job it was judging what I would call "The Best of the Best of the West" in categories of woodworking, leather, metals, home accents, jewelry and fashion. All I can say is "WOW!" What a talented group of artisans under one roof. The fashion show was particularly interesting to me as the buyer for Gunslinger. So many "Melissa Must~Haves"! The highlight of the show was how designer Celeste Sotola of Montana Dreamwear silenced the crowd (in awe) by presenting her gorgeous bridal collection...as she so beautifully and elegantly choreographed the models...almost in slow motion...to a song she composed herself entitled "Little House"...and, as the last model graced the runway, petals fell "from heaven" in surreal fashion as she "played" a violin. Breathtaking!

Pictured is the stunning Sharon Waggoner, a WDC Board Member and fellow juror; the talented Celeste Sotola; me; and, on the right, Lyle Waggoner...Sharon's handsome husband (and a beloved star of The Carol Burnett Show,etc).

Congratulations to all of the winners and to everyone who worked so hard to present their finest wares...and a big thanks to those who coordinate this much~anticipated yearly event...and also to the other jurors who were so fun and yet took this role to heart in choosing winners in each category. I met such wonderful people! The weather was perfect and the food was seriously amazing. If you get a chance to visit Jackson, I would highly recommend The Snake River Grill(elk served with grits and a tantalizing margarita...had to eat there twice), The Blue Lion (best rack of lamb ever), and The Rendezvous Grill. The Eggs Benedict were fabulous at Jedediah's which specializes in everything sour dough. We stayed in a luxurious cabin at The Rustic Inn...visited Yellowstone...and of course, SHOPPED!!! There are so many cool stores and the square was buzzing with wine tastings and an art show. We stayed one night (on the way back to the Salt Lake City airport)in Park City, Utah...another darling town with many colorful homes at the base of the mountains and a fantastic selection of restaurants and shops...all which will have to wait for another vacation!