From the glittered stage, the speaker looked out into the dressed up ballroom of wedding professionals, from planners to photographers, and asked one simple question, “What is your guiding ethic?” The speaker paused and silence fell over the draped and dazzled room for a moment while the audience pondered the thought. Then, one by one, responses started flickering from different corners of the room, each one giving more energy, courage and light to the next, turning each individual’s spark into a collective and cohesive flame, an idea, a vision for what our industry could and should stand for, things like honesty, integrity, quality, kindness, service, and love.
These aren’t new ideas. They’re thousands of years old, summarized in the world’s most timeless ethic, the ethic of ethics, The Golden Rule: serve others as you’d have them serve you. From our church to our professional associations, we want to partner with people dedicated to serving others first, which is why we’re honored to be part of one whose guiding principle is Taking a Vow of Excellence.
A few nights ago, we co-sponsored the Wedding Industry Professional Association’s (WIPA) Phoenix chapter’s winter event at the redesigned Monterra in Scottsdale. One of the perks of working in weddings is getting to attend events like these, where the best of the best donate their time and talent to create an exceptional evening for all. From the five star cuisine brought out by synchronized servers “Be Our Guest!” style to the decor of the tables and ambiance of the ballroom, event co-chairs Andrea Leslie and Kelly Beeby hit a grand slam in a world where base hits are common and home runs are expected. Bravo, ladies. Very well done.
To our wedding industry family, thank you for another night of collaboration not competition, of prettiness not pettiness, of service not slights, and of laughter and love, because with that kind of teamwork, we won’t just flip our industry upside down, we’ll change the world.
We got to peek at the room before anyone else, and we immediately feel in love with this orchid, blush and lavender color palate from The Flower Studio.
How great are these linens? The ladies of La Tavola make every event they do pure eye candy.
As guests arrived, they were able to enjoy this cute-as-it-is-tasty signature cocktail while catching up with old friends and meeting some new ones, too.
We had to grab a photo of our fabulous co-chairs of the evening, Andrea Leslie and Kelly Bebee. They did such an incredible job, and managed to look amazing while they did it!
During cocktail hour, we got to connect with wonderful friends and enjoy M Culinary Concepts‘s delicious treats.
As the event began, we got to hear from some of WIPA Phoenix’s board members. Whenever we hear them speak, we remember how blessed we are to be part of such a solid organization dedicated to becoming better leaders, serving our clients and enhancing our community.
Once Milena Santoro took the stage, she did such a great job making her presentation on leadership interactive and engaging.
To wrap up the night, we got to enjoy wonderful company in the cool night air and indulge in delectable sweets together.
We had such a great time photographing the night and connecting with industry professionals we love. It’s such an honor to be part of such a wonderful community.
Event Speaker
Milena Santoro, Creative President and CEO of MS Productions Inc.
Event Co-Chairs
Andrea Leslie: Andrea Leslie Weddings | Kelly Beeby: La Tavola Fine Linen Rental
Event Co-Sponsors
Venue: Monterra at Westworld | Catering: M Culinary Concepts | Photography: Amy & Jordan Photography | Videography: Serendipity Cinematography | Florals: The Flower Studio | Linens: La Tavola Fine Linen Rental | Rentals: PRO EM Party & Event Rentals | Stationery: The Invitation Lady | Entertainment: Desert House Productions | Favors: 21 Cakes | Cappuccino Bar: Creative Cappuccino
Gear Used for This Shoot
Canon 5D Mark III | Canon 50 1.2 | Canon 70-200 2.8 | Canon 100 2.8 | Canon Speedlite 600 EX-RT | Entire Gear List