What a year 2014 was! There was change; there was loss, and, we imagine, like many organizations and groups, Weddings of Distinction dealt with its share of curveballs.
We began the year with high hopes and big plans. The board in 2014 was the same as in 2013, so the consistency in leadership helped keep the group on course for the plans in place.
However, in March, our small group got an unexpected and sudden shock: the death of WoD President, Bob Brichmann. As President, Bob was an integral part of the group, but as a long-standing WoD member, he was also a friend and trusted wedding vendor. Bob did so much, and he knew as a member since WoD’s inception, he understood the inner workings of our non-profit. His death came so suddenly, and in many ways, left the group in a state of confusion.
Yet, it was as a result of this tragic event, that the resiliency of the group and its members prevailed. Board members reshuffled responsibilities, and normalcy soon returned. By the middle to end of 2014, great things returned to WoD, just as Bob would have wanted.
In March, we partnered up with another San Diego-based wedding group, NACE, and had a joint luncheon. Many of our WoD members are also members of NACE, so the combination of vendors allowed for ample opportunities to network.
Also in 2014 was the chance to explore other venue and locations that are newer to the wedding industry, i.e. the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. As a group, we traveled to the Wild Animal Park in October, and many of us were astounded with the space, the possibilities and the potential! Who would have thought that use a space like the park for wedding, but based on the luncheon they hosted for us, it truly is an amazing wedding space.
Weddings of Distinction is a non-profit networking group, and the groups ultimate focus is on its members and the opportunity to network. 2014 was a stellar year in that regard. We welcomed many new vendors, and said goodbye to a few. Those remaining into 2015 continue to be among the best in the wedding industry!
What to expect from us in 2015….a new board. Beginning January 1, the new governing board is:
- Elaine Ardizonne (Sweet Cheeks Baking) – President
- Frankie Hartwell (Hartworks Floral) – Vice President
- Merrylin Brichmann (Artistic Productions) – Membership
- Scott Milnes (Officiant) – Secretary
- Tracy (Mt. Woodson/Amy Strong Castle) – Treasurer
- Shannon Henry (Studio Carre’ Photographie) – Marketing
- Ann Strobel (Ann’s Plans) – Industry Education Lead
What’s really great is that many in the new board are new members and/or new to leadership. This transition should bring a fresh perspective to the group!
All in all, while 2014 was difficult in many ways, the tests and tribulations have brought about a stronger group and one more willing to protect the integrity of our special affiliation.
Weddings of Distinction members are special. We all work hard, and as many of us realized at the holiday party this month, we all play hard, too. Our members know and trust that membership in the group means we all are among the best in the industry, but what’s truly special, is that we all truly enjoy each others company outside the job. Friends and vendors…no matter what may happen, Weddings of Distinction will remain the same and remain as strong. After all, that’s what Bob Brichmann would have wanted. So, going into 2015 and beyond, that is what we intend to stay!
