EBS STAFF
Moonlight Basin’s director of membership and wellness, Bridget French, recalls early memories of her grandparents locker at the club, and grabbing a snack at what was then a deli called the Timbers. Born and raised in Big Sky, French today is happy to have had the opportunity to return after leaving briefly for college, and work and live in the area. French spoke with Explore Big Sky about Moonlight’s history, sustainability efforts and partnerships with area nonprofits in this recent Making it in Big Sky column.
This series is part of a paid partnership with the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce. The following answers have been edited for brevity.
Explore Big Sky: Let’s start with you—Bridget, when did you come to Big Sky and what brought you here?
Bridget French: I am fortunate enough to have been born and raised in Big Sky. My parents moved to Big Sky in the late 70s and never left. I had the opportunity to grow up in this incredible community and eventually ventured off during high school to pursue my ski racing career in Park City, Utah, which then led me to the University of Denver for college. I ended up in Los Angeles for three years after college, when a great work opportunity at Moonlight presented itself five years ago and I decided to make my way back to Big Sky, and I am very grateful to be back here.
EBS: When did your relationship with Moonlight Basin begin?
BF: I remember when the Moonlight Lodge opened in the early 2000s, my grandparents had a ski locker there and we would dine at the restaurant which used to be called the Timbers. There was a great little deli where the Members Lounge now is, and it’s always been a unique place that I have cherished.
EBS: Tell me a bit about the history you know of Moonlight and how the club has grown over the years?
BF: I know there are various people in the community that know the history of Moonlight better than I do, however, my understanding is the original land was purchased back in 1992 by three gentleman. The goal was to preserve 75% of that land in conservation easements, which is still true today. The Moonlight Lodge opened in the early 2000s and was originally opened to the public. Following the recession, Moonlight was bought by CrossHarbor Capital Partners and later became a private member community. The club has seen exponential growth over the years with added amenities for the membership and we will continue to see that for years to come.
EBS: What would you say Moonlight’s primary goal is for guests who cherish the area and experience?
BF: Our primary goal for Moonlight is creating memorable experiences for the Members and guests so they share all Moonlight has to offer with their family and friends. We strive to create an environment that feels comfortable like the members living room, while maintaining a high level of customer service, we refer to it as “casual elegance.”
EBS: What is your favorite thing about working for Moonlight Basin?
BF: The people. Not only do we have incredible members who really make coming to work enjoyable, but the team at Moonlight is one-of-a-kind. The tenure of our leadership team is testament to how great it is to work for Moonlight. I truly appreciate how they have given me the opportunity to grow my role and allow me to take on things that I am passionate about.
EBS: Big Sky is a beautiful place—tell me about any sustainability or environmental efforts at the club:
BF: Moonlight’s mission, vision and values all highlight the importance of sustainability within the community. We have implemented various efforts to enhance our sustainability within the club, encompassing the development side of things with building LEED certified, focusing on development that blends into the natural environment, and placing entitlements into conservation easements. Operationally, we have implemented recycling and compositing, affluent water on the golf course, a canned food drive each season with Yellowstone Club, Spanish Peaks, and more.
EBS: Tell me about Moonlight’s efforts to give back in the Big Sky community, partnerships with nonprofits, etc:
BF: I can’t say enough good things about the Moonlight Community Foundation and what they have done for the Big Sky community. They are our nonprofit charitable arm of Moonlight and assist with grants for over a dozen nonprofits in the area. We also work very closely with the Big Sky Community Food Bank, Big Sky SNO, Visit Big Sky, and more. Our leadership team sits on various boards throughout the community to ensure that we are involved.
EBS: Can you provide a brief overview of the arrival of the One&Only and what it means for Moonlight to be a part of that project?
BF: It’s remarkable that the first One&Only in the U.S. is being built within the Moonlight Basin footprint. It’s a huge benefit for our members to have added amenities on property. The plan is to open the ski lodge this winter season and the rest of the resort will open June 2025. We have been offering weekly tours for our members to see the project and that has really heightened the excitement around the opening.
EBS: Is there any business advice you’ve received that has stuck with you?
BF: Have integrity with everything you do, even if it isn’t in your immediate self-interest.
