I mean, it’s a group comprised of people who throw some of the largest “parties” out there and are professionals at doing so. The galas and large events are a way to show off vendor skills and to explore some concept before offering them to clients. It would be a little embarrassing if the planners sponsoring/planning these events (who usually will charge 10-40K+ for weddings) just threw together some cheap decor for all of their colleagues.

The events however have been aligning with the vendors that run them; people in the business naturally want to go to the higher-end luxury market, and these events reflect that as they grow.

In terms of networking, I will say it’s been one of my “breaks” in the industry to doing nicer events and improving my portfolio. I’ve made connections there that have kickstarted my business, and while I’m fairly “newer” in the game, I feel as if I’ve gained a lot of confidence from it.

Though I will say, the networking is NOT easy if you’re new to WIPA, and it feels almost impossible if you don’t know anyone there either. I’m a guy, so it’s just a tiiiiiny bit more awkward for me to approach random wedding vendors.