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General Questions

When is Design Ranch 2025?

Thursday, April 10 to Sunday, April 13, 2025.

Where is Design Ranch, and how do I get there?

Waldemar Guest Ranch, in the heart of the Texas Hill Country near Hunt, Texas. It’s about 2.5 hours west of Austin and 1.5 hours west of San Antonio. Visit our Stuff to Know page for more information.

Who attends Design Ranch?

We’ve had people from all walks of life attend Design Ranch—designers, copywriters, illustrators, photographers, and all kinds of other creative souls. Design Ranch is for designers and creatives of all disciplines seeking a recharge. This retreat focuses on design creativity, rejuvenation and networking. Workshops are intended to stretch your skill set, get your hands a little dirty, and teach unconventional methods of thinking and making as a means to refresh a passion for design.

How do I book my cabin or room?

Once you register for Design Ranch, you will receive an email confirmation and information about reserving your room. All room and board accommodations must be made directly with Camp Waldemar. If we were one of those regular conferences, think of Design Ranch as your “conference” and Camp Waldemar as the “hotel.” Lori and her staff at Camp Waldemar will handle all your room and board needs. Only registered Design Ranch attendees may reserve rooms. For more information, check out our Stuff to Know page.

How much does room and board cost?

Room and board rates are based on how many other campers you choose to bunk up with and can be found on our Stuff to Know page.

Are meals included in the Room & Board rates?

Yes—and what tasty meals they are! Find out more on our Stuff to Know page.

Is there an event discount for AIGA members?

There is no event discount for AIGA members. The national AIGA membership structure and pricing has evolved since the implementation of the member discount price for Design Ranch. However, our board is cooking up something special for members who are registered to attend!

Alright, I’m registered. So, when do I arrive at and leave the Ranch?

Check-in at the ranch opens at 11am on Thursday, followed by lunch and the first workshops are at 1pm. There are no activities on Sunday aside from breakfast and goodbyes, so feel free to leave as early as you need. Be sure to check-out with the front desk to settle any payments before leaving.

Can I bring my kid?

While Design Ranch is being held on a large guest ranch with plenty of room to spread out, there are no activities scheduled for children during this three-day adventure, and facilities are not equipped to accommodate young children. Only paid registrants (child or adult) will be allowed to attend workshop sessions. Children under 14 must be supervised at all times, and children will not be permitted in workshop areas without the express written permission of the Design Ranch Director. Children who are disruptive will be asked to leave workshops immediately. If you would like to register your child to accompany you at Design Ranch, contact registration@designranch.org.

Can I bring my pet?

Unfortunately, all furry, feathered, and scaly friends must stay behind. The Ranch’s does not allow pets on the premises. Pictures are welcome, though.

Can I bring my best friend / spouse / neighbor?

Because of limited lodging at the Ranch, we are restricting attendees to those who are registered. This way, we can make sure that we’re able to offer the best experience at Design Ranch for the most people. (Of course, if your best friend / spouse / neighbor is registered for Design Ranch, bring ‘em on!)

Can I stay off-site?

To experience the true spirit of camaraderie at Design Ranch, we really think it’s best if everyone stays on-site. However if you stay offsite, there is still a daily Ranch Fee for meals.

Is there a Design Ranch day rate?

We’re glad you asked. There is no “day rate” for Design Ranch.

How can I become a Design Ranch Sponsor?

Contact our Sponsorship Chair for more information.

Is there Cell Phone/Wi-Fi Service?

Cell phone service and wi-fi is available at the ranch but it is not guaranteed to work at all time and it is not in all cabins. You are in the country.

I’m flying in and would like to ship one or more of my workshop projects and/or silent auction purchases back home. Can I do that?

Absolutely! We realize that if flying in, some of your Design Ranch items are easy to send back home. We will have a point of contact on the ranch for this. You will just need to send us a prepaid label from USPS.com or FedEx/UPS or similar.

REGISTRATION

When can I register?

Design Ranch 2025 registration opens on November 1, 2024 at 11 a.m. Central Standard Time. Join our mailing list, follow us on Instagram, or like our Facebook Page for more the most up-to-date information.

How much will it cost to attend?

$799 for general admission, $550 for full time students.

Does Design Ranch offer a student discount?

Yes. To qualify for the student rate, we require a copy of your student ID and proof of course schedule, showing 9 current credit hours. Please fill out this form to receive your student discount code. This will be required upon registration and must be verified to guarantee the student rate. Student discounts reduce registration rates by $195. If for some reason you register before receiving your discount verification, you can be credited the $195 after the fact. Also, if you are listed as a student member with AIGA, your discount should automatically apply. If you have questions about student discounts, contact registration@designranch.org.

What if I need to cancel my registration?

Cancellations will receive a 90% – 50% refund depending upon the date of cancellation. Any cancellations after 03/28/2025 11:59PM CST will not receive a refund.

Lodging is handled separate from registration and by Lori at Camp Waldemar. We will pass along our list of cancellations directly to Lori and she will process those refunds separate from registration. Any other questions about lodging, please reach out to Lori directly: lori@waldemar.com or 830-238-6005.

If I can’t attend, can I send someone else in my place?

Nope. Due to the high demand for registration, you cannot transfer your registration to someone else. See our cancellation policy, above.

When do I sign up for workshops?

Design Ranch’s full workshop agenda will be posted closer to the event.

Does my registration fee include lodging?

The registration fee is for attendance only. Room & Board is handled separate from registration and by the staff at Camp Waldemar.

COMMUNICATIONS

How can I get Design Ranch materials e-mailed to me?

Join our mailing list, and be sure to include your correct email address.

How do I unsubscribe from the Design Ranch e-newsletter?

Follow the link at the bottom of one of the emails you received to unsubscribe, or email us, and let us know you want to be removed from the list. Be sure to include the email address you’re receiving e-newsletters at in your request. AND MORE

Where can I go for more information or if my question hasn’t been answered?

Please visit our contact us page and give us a holler! We’d be happy to answer any questions.