Bend is a community unlike any other. Our plethora of natural wealth is surpassed only by the quality of individuals who choose to call Bend home. It comes as no surprise then that so many gifted creatives find their niche among the Cascades. When these creative powerhouses team up great things happen, like this week at the inaugural Bend Design Conference.
For two days creatives from Bend and across the country gathered to "stoke curiosity, spark innovation, empower collaboration, and make things happen" through workshops, lectures, tours and hands-on design opportunities. Headlining speakers included:
- Chris Dewan, Design Director for Second Story who oversees the practice of visual, interaction, and motion design across Second Story’s studios.
- Desi Matel-Anderson with non-profit Field Innovation Team and CEO of Global Disaster Innovation Group, LLC.
- Sam Stubblefield who has created art, architecture, and situations for organizations like Amazon, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Google, Lady Bug House, Madison Square Garden, Microsoft Research, Sears Tower Visitor Center and the London 2012 Summer Olympics.
- Kassin Laverty is the Founder and Executive Director for Interior Design Fair. Creating innovative residential interiors and bringing company brands to life in 3D.
"With the increase of entrepreneurs moving to Bend, along with the rise of the creative class, we believe Bend is well poised to bring designers together locally and from afar to celebrate design as a promising cultural and economic resource," said René Mitchell, Vice President of tbd agency and the visionary behind Bend Design 2015.

On Kim: Cynthia Vincent Embroidered Blouse, AG Denim, Claire Vivier Clutch, AK Vintage Necklace and Vince Heels. On Kira: Velvet Embroidered Blouse, Mother Denim, Claire Vivier Clutch, Chan Luu Necklace and Ulla Johnson Boots. On Abby: Cynthia Vincent Embroidered Sleeveless Blouse, Elizabeth and James Blazer, AG Denim, Claire Vivier Clutch and Ulla Johnson Tassel Boots.

On Kira: Ulla Johnson Cardigan, Majestic Filature Tee, Citizens of Humanity Denim, Claire Vivier Clutch and Frye Shooties. On Abby: Pepin Blouse, AG Denim, Claire Vivier Wallet, AK Vintage Necklace and Closed Boots. On Kim: Ulla Johnson Knit Top, Mother Denim, Claire Vivier Clutch, Chan Luu Necklace and Frye Heels.