Positive Industry feedback for WEOA!

On Wednesday, 15^th June 2011, Angela Vithoulkas and Jessica Aguilera held the launch of their new business Weddings & Events of Australia (WEOA) at The Italian Village, The Rocks, Sydney.

WEOA will provide businesses within the weddings and events industry with a membership platform that allows them to establish accreditation through an annual Awards program, as well as being supported by webinars and regular networking events.

The launch event introduced industry business owners and media to the concept of WEOA in true event style and was well attended, despite inclement Sydney weather.

“We felt that it was important to start this venture in the most appropriate way,” says Vithoulkas. “If you’re going to provide something for the wedding and event industry there is nothing better than showcasing what they do. These people work in an area where they provide the small details that go into making the end result great. It was a way for them to appreciate their work.”

The feedback from the industry business owners about the goals of WEOA to provide an organisation to facilitate collaboration for business growth and recognise achievements was very positive. The concept of working together to produce better results both for the business and the clients was one that resonated greatly with those listening to how the business will work.

“The wedding and events industry is an area that comes with very high expectations from its consumers,” says co-founder Aguilera. “When you’re planning an event you expect all of the suppliers to be able to deliver to exacting standards. With WEOA we aim to help the businesses in the industry to meet and exceed those standards, and recognise them officially through our annual awards program that is only open to industry members.”

As well as recognising businesses for their contribution to the industry, WEOA members will also be able to take advantage of business webinars that are specifically tailored to their unique needs. And, in an industry where businesses work closely with others in complementary areas, the WEOA networking events aim to develop and foster strong businesses relationships that help future growth.

“The networking and development side of WEOA is a very important aspect of what we will be offering,” says Vithoulkas. “Having support to give you direction on how to grow your business is vital for any owner but, when you’re part of an industry that relies heavily on the personal recommendations of other suppliers, it’s important to make sure you develop your connections carefully. Our training and networking programs are designed specifically to engage you in your business and develop fruitful relationships.”

One key aspect highlighted by Vithoulkas in her address was the one-time customer nature of the wedding and events industry. “This is where collaboration and utilising today’s new techniques of promoting business come to the fore. When you only have one chance to make an impression strong enough for that customer to recommend you to future customers, having the added weight of being a finalist or winner in an awards program that is determined on merit and success rather than popular vote and the support of other businesses in your industry can mean all the difference to your future.”

The WEOA website will also give members a directory listing, a monthly newsletter and the opportunity to offer WEOA-only special offers to brides and event managers, who will also have the ability to take up an associate WEOA membership in a few months’ time.

For more information about WEOA visit www.weoa.com.au