Ascendigo Blue Aspen is our signature gala, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who made this year’s event so meaningful. The theme—ILLUMINATE: A Night to Shine—celebrated the brilliance and potential within every individual on the spectrum.
At Ascendigo, we believe each person carries a unique spark. When nurtured, supported, and empowered, that spark becomes a radiant light that inspires us all. Throughout the evening, guests witnessed and celebrated how our clients’ inner light shines—whether on the ski slopes, in the classroom, at work, or in everyday life.
The night featured unforgettable entertainment, gourmet dining, inspiring stories, and meaningful opportunities to give. Because of your generosity, we raised critical funds to expand programs that empower individuals with autism to thrive, achieve independence, and share their light with the world. Thank you for helping us shine.
Event Highlights
Special Guests: Tanner & Nicci Smith
Generously underwritten by The Olitsky Community Fund at Chabad, Ascendigo is honored to welcome Tanner Smith and his mother Nicci Smith, beloved personalities from the hit Netflix series Love on the Spectrum, as featured guest speakers for the 2026 gala.
“We are so excited to be the keynote speakers at Ascendigo Blue Aspen in March of 2026,” said Tanner and Nicci Smith. “It will be our first visit to Colorado, and we are thrilled to connect with some new friends, raise awareness, and support the mission of Ascendigo Autism Services.”
According to People Magazine, “Tanner, known for his joyful authenticity and heartwarming presence on the show, continues to resonate with audiences around the world for the way he lives life with heart, humor, and courage. Through his journey shared on Love on the Spectrum, he has become an inspiration for many advocating for neurodiversity, inclusion, and openness in embracing life’s experiences.”
Generously underwritten by The Olitsky Community Fund at Chabad
Joined by his mother Nicci, this authentic and engaging mother-son duo will deliver a lively, heartfelt presentation guaranteed to captivate the audience and illuminate the beauty of life on the spectrum. Their voices reflect real, human stories of growth, connection, self-discovery, and the power of compassion — making them a perfect highlight for Ascendigo Blue Aspen’s celebration of community and potential.
2026 Ascendigo Blue Aspen Style Guide
Announcing the 2026 Ascendigo Blue Aspen Style Guide — Sponsored by Susie’s Aspen!
We’re thrilled to unveil the highly anticipated 2026 Ascendigo Blue Aspen Style Guide, proudly presented by Susie’s Aspen! This curated fashion resource is your go‑to inspiration for dressing with confidence, creativity, and joy for Ascendigo Blue Aspen 2026: ILLUMINATE — A Night to Shine, happening Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the historic Hotel Jerome in Aspen.
We are proud to shine a spotlight on Susie’s Aspen, the exclusive Style Guide Sponsor for Ascendigo Blue Aspen. A beloved Aspen legacy for over 30 years, Susie’s Aspen offers one-of-a-kind men’s and women’s fashions, designer labels, and elevated consignment pieces that blend timeless elegance with modern style—tailored for a night to shine.
Looking for the perfect gala look?
Visit Susie’s Aspen at 600 E. Main St. Suite 102, NOW through March 7th and enjoy 10% off when you mention you’re shopping for Ascendigo Blue Aspen. With new arrivals daily, discover more at susiesaspen.com and let your style illuminate the night.
Whether you’re attending in elevated formal, Western chic, or handcrafted mountain elegance, the Style Guide offers expert suggestions to help you express your personal style while honoring the evening’s theme. It’s designed to make dressing for this special night effortless, inspiring, and fun — because when you feel great, you shine even brighter.
The Live Auction Lineup Is Here…
We’re giving you a first look at the unforgettable experiences featured in our Live Auction — each one a truly exceptional opportunity. These are more than auction items — they are legendary experiences.
Legends on the Mountain – Experience Aspen Snowmass like a VIP with this exclusive alpine adventure for four. Ski alongside five-time Olympian Casey Puckett and 1998 North American Free Ski Champion Susan Plummer, carving iconic runs while swapping stories from the world stage. Pause for an unforgettable lunch at the Aspen Mountain Club—an exclusive, members-only social club atop Aspen Mountain offering premium seasonal dining and a private retreat for the town’s most discerning insiders. Customize your experience—hone racing techniques or explore up to 30 of Aspen Mountain’s 80 hidden shrines—tailored to your ability. This is more than a ski day; it’s insider access, elite company, and a quintessential Aspen experience.
Tulum Luxury Villa – Escape to a modern 4-bedroom jungle villa near Aldea Zama, just minutes from Tulum’s beaches, centro, cenotes, and Mayan ruins. This stunning retreat features seamless indoor-outdoor living, expansive terraces, and two private pools — including a rooftop infinity pool overlooking the jungle canopy.
With spacious accommodations for 8 guests, a gourmet kitchen, air-conditioned comfort, and high-speed WiFi, it offers the perfect blend of serene jungle privacy and effortless access to Tulum’s beach clubs, dining, yoga, and Riviera Maya adventures.
Grit & Glamour – From iconic style to soul-stirring mountain adventure, every moment of this package shines with character, purpose, and place. Featuring Kemo Sabe, The Hotel Jerome, and a private trail ride amongst Aspen’s beautiful landscape.
Signature Offerings:
• A 2-night stay* at the distinguished Hotel Jerome with daily breakfast.
• A dinner for 2 at Prospect featuring The Colorado Journey menu, a
progression of dishes intended to highlight local artisans & ingredients.
• VIP bar access for 4 people for one hour at Kemo Sabe!
• Lavish in luxury with 2 Kemo Sabe Grit hats and 2 pairs of Kemo Sabe
Grit boots.
• Enjoy a private 2-hour horseback trail ride for 2 people.
Restrictions and blackout dates may apply.
An Evening at Dunbar – Host an unforgettable evening at Kevin Costner’s celebrated Aspen estate, nestled on 160 acres of pristine wilderness just minutes from downtown. Surrounded by sweeping views of the Elk Mountains, private lakes, and iconic Aspen peaks, this is a rare opportunity to gather in one of Colorado’s most storied ranch settings. Enjoy an exclusive dinner for 12 in the Dunbar Barn, featuring a chef-driven, seasonal menu by Field 2 Fork Kitchen. With shuttle transportation included, your once-in-a-lifetime evening under the Colorado sky will be seamless, intimate, and truly extraordinary.
Signature Offerings:
• Private dinner for 12 guests.
• Exclusive use of the Dunbar Barn.
• Chef-driven meal by Field 2 Fork Kitchen.
• Shuttle transportation.
Must be scheduled on a mutually agreed-upon date. Valid for one year.
Aspen’s Favorites – Experience the very best of Aspen with this curated collection of the town’s most coveted offerings. From indulgent self-care and chef-driven dining to unforgettable adventures, this package captures the spirit, style, and sophistication of our mountain community. CLICK HERE to view the full list of included items!
Package Highlights:
• A 42” x 42” signature Blue Heart painting by local artist
Christopher Martin (valued at $12,500).
• Premier 1-year membership to the exclusive Caribou Club.
• Fine dining at Aspen’s most celebrated restaurants
including BOSQ, Cache Cache and more!
• Luxurious spa experiences.
• Golf at premier Roaring Fork Valley courses.
• Tickets to iconic events like JAS Labor Day Experience
and Snowmass Wine Festival.
Bid high and indulge in the ultimate Aspen experience — for yourself or someone special.
Art with Heart
We’re still glowing from last week’s Art with Heart event—huge thanks to Christopher Martin Gallery and everyone who came out to support Ascendigo Autism Services. Your energy made the night unforgettable!
In a generous show of commitment to Ascendigo’s mission, Christopher has pledged to donate 20% of proceeds from the sale of any of his eight large-scale signature heart paintings, each measuring 42×42″. This special giving opportunity will be available through Friday, March 13, 2026. Click HERE to shop online & support from afar.
Music & Entertainment
Emcee – Miller Ford
Hailing from Aspen, CO, Miller Ford is a talented local comedian known for his sharp wit, relatable storytelling, and quick improvisational skills. A favorite on the Colorado comedy scene, Miller brings humor to every stage — along with a genuine passion for our mission. Through his dedicated work alongside Co-Emcee Elliott, he has helped shatter expectations, elevate awareness, and celebrate what’s possible, making him an especially meaningful part of this evening.
Emcee – Elliott Maxwell
A bright and fun-loving Ascendigo participant, Elliott lights up every room he enters! Joining Miller Ford to kick off the evening, this dynamic duo returns for their third year emceeing Ascendigo Blue Aspen, promising laughter and energy to ILLUMINATE the night.
Cocktail Hour – Steel Drum Ensemble
The Pan Association will bring a warm, vibrant glow and tropical grooves to cocktail hour with their live steel pan performance. Blending Caribbean & Latin rhythms with pop favorites and pan classics, they create a joyful, relaxed atmosphere perfect for mingling and unwinding.
Auctioneer – The Gala Team
Simone D. Ross, a dynamic leader and proud Denver native, is CEO of the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce and founder of several mission-driven organizations. She champions equity, opportunity, and collective impact, and tonight partners with Ascendigo to advance our mission.
DJ Naka G Underwritten by Laurel Gilbert
After the program, DJ Naka G will turn up the energy & keep the celebration going. Aspen’s most sought-after and versatile DJ, he’s been named “Aspen’s Best DJ” for five straight years and performs at many of the resort town’s most exclusive events. He is also exclusively contracted with Aspen Snowmass as their on-mountain and event DJ, holding après-ski residencies at iconic venues like Cloud 9 on Aspen Highlands and more.
Why Sponsor Ascendigo Blue Aspen?
As a sponsor of Ascendigo Blue Aspen you will illuminate your brand with a cause that is transforming lives—through cutting-edge adventure programming, vocational support, and life skills training that opens doors for neurodiverse individuals of all ages.
Your sponsorship helps fuel our life-changing programs while offering exclusive access to:
High-visibility brand exposure within Aspen’s philanthropic and business circles
Recognition across digital and print platforms reaching an engaged, values-driven audience
Meaningful partnership opportunities with an organization leading the way in neurodiversity and inclusion
Together, we can illuminate the spectrum—helping every individual’s inner light shine.
Spotlight on Our Sponsors
ILLUMINATE
SPONSORS:
GUEST SPEAKER
UNDERWRITER:
RADIATE
SPONSORS:
GLOW
SPONSORS:
STYLE GUIDE
SPONSOR:
SHINE
SPONSORS:
EVENT PARTNERS:
A Heartfelt THANK YOU!
We are so grateful for our AMAZING Committee Members for their time, dedication, and support in making this event both incredible and impactful!
Host Committee:
Andrea & Robert Marriott | Christine Karnes | Monica Vidal & Joe Sherman |
Cheri & Richard Paxton | Larry & Marla Butler | Middy & Peter Perkins | Helga Fisch | Lori Dresner & Pete Wycoff | Debra Doyle | Laurel Gilbert | Susan Linden | Julie Manning | Leslie Curley |
Stacey Kelly | Christine Karnes | Sallie Bernard | Brice Janney
Event Committee:
Debra Doyle | Laurel Gilbert | Susan Linden | Julie Manning | Leslie Curley |
Stacey Kelly | Christine Karnes | Sallie Bernard | Brice Janney
Your commitment makes all the difference—thank you for helping us shine!
Our Light Shines Brighter with You
On behalf of the entire Ascendigo team, we would like to extend our gratitude to everyone who makes this event possible! From sponsors to supporters, your presence truly contributes to the vibrancy of the evening, beautifully themed around color and reflection. The success of Ascendigo Blue Aspen is made possible by the incredible support of guests like you.
We are grateful for your commitment to our cause and for joining us in this celebration of diversity, inclusion, and autism awareness. Your involvement helps us continue our vital work and make a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve.
There are many opportunities to be involved, including:
– corporate and individual sponsorships –
– auction item donations –
– join the Host Committee –
– volunteering –
Your support is more important than ever.
For more information, please contact:
Annual Giving & Events Manager, Grace Sinclair at gsinclair@ascendigo.org
If you are unable to attend the event, please consider making a donation to show your support!
