EVENT BRANDING: Case Study from the ECEP Symposium 2025

When we set out to design the look and feel of the event branding for the ECEP 2025 Symposium held in Napa at the Carneros Resort and Spa, we knew it needed to be more than just beautiful—it had to tell a story.

To craft that story, and at the same time, create a cohesive design concept for the ECEP 2025 Symposium, Ash Boucher of Epoch Design Co drew inspiration from the same source that winemakers have relied on for generations—the terroir of the region.

Her process began with the creation of a primary logo, rooted in themes of growth, life cycles, and the fusion of tradition with innovation. “These are the same themes many caterers experience in their work,” she said, “and they are also deeply embedded in the identity of Napa Valley.”

Strong brand design plays a vital role at a conference—it not only unifies the visual identity across materials and experiences but also sets the tone for how attendees connect with the event’s purpose and each other.

The logo's artwork is housed within a stemless glass, divided into four quadrants. The layout subtly evokes a crest or shield, alluding to history and heritage, while the glass itself reinforces themes of catering and hospitality.

The primary logo featured four quadrants and identifying artwork

A trio of cottage inspired patterns reflective of the resort's interior design and line art of Calfornia poppies found in the region.

The design in action. The stage during a keynote chat between Richard Blais and Ridgewells' Susan Lacz.

Inside the quadrants are four symbolic elements: a vineyard, a grape cluster, a reflection line—evoking the clarity of glassware—and the stylized “e” from the ECEP logo. Together, they tell a visual story of a lifecycle from farm to glass, culminating in the shared experience of gathering, good company, and perhaps the perfect glass of wine.

Complementing the logo is a trio of cottage-inspired patterns, drawn from the interior design of Carneros Resort & Spa. Rendered in color tones that feel both fresh for spring and subtly retro, the palette nods to the 1970s—a formative era in Napa’s wine history, mirroring ECEP’s own journey as it carves out its place in the industry.

Line art illustrations of California poppies—common across the Napa landscape and the official state flower—add a finishing touch. These motifs can be used either as standalone icons or repeated as patterns, offering versatility while grounding the design in a strong sense of place.