03/11/2025
ππGRATITUDE ππ
I am overwhelmed with gratitude and finally able to sit and cry as I reflect on this past weekend. Thank you to every dancer who attended, supported, and brought their incredible energy to Eclipse Zouk Marathon. This event comes straight from my soul, and I can't fully express how much it means to have that seen and embraced by this beautiful community.
A very special thank you to Lauren Bright who absolutely boss babed the Relaxation Room, the stunning giant Moon, and the breathtaking Zouk Letters adorned with living moss from Portland. Your creativity and dedication elevated the event in ways I could only dream of.
Thank you to everyone who donated soft blankets, lounge areas, and pillows. Your generosity created a warm and inviting space that added so much comfort to our weekend together.
To my incredible volunteer team β this event could not have happened without you. Each of you played a vital role, and I am endlessly grateful. An especially heartfelt thank you to Aurora, who took on so much so that I could actually spend time dancing and being present in this magical experience. I cannot thank you enough.
To our phenomenal DJs β you are the heartbeat of the marathon. Your experience, talent, and willingness to dive down the rabbit hole of creativity truly shaped the magic of this weekend. Thank you for curating the experience that made us all feel so connected and alive (even though Dhruv played a Bachata song but I guess that is fine too).
And to Adayl β where do I even begin? Thank you for patiently hearing me talk (endlessly) about setup details, for shouldering my frustrations, for teasing me mercilessly, and for being unwaveringly supportive and encouraging. You are the best partner I could ask for, and I am so deeply thankful for you.
Thank you to the Media team who captured these precious memories that will live on, and inspire future Eclipsers to join us in the magic!
Finally, to the Portland Zouk community β you continue to inspire me. Seeing the light, love, and joy in your eyes this weekend brought me immeasurable happiness. This dance, this community β it is everything.
Thank you for believing in Eclipse, for showing up with open hearts, and for making this dream a reality.
With endless love and gratitude,
π Deblin