EVENT RECAP: The Good Weekend
We partnered with former #oneoftheBUNCH, Denise Troy of Wunderkid, on her latest venture, The Good Weekend. The Good Weekend is an event that bring conscious consumers together with companies committed to social good. When Denise asked us to come on board as a sponsor, we couldn't say no! Continue reading to learn about how Denise and The Good Weekend are promoting creativity for social good.
What inspired you to create The Good Weekend?
In our world today, we are bombarded daily with images of tragedy and anger. I fundamentally believe that if we allow ourselves to focus on these events, this momentum of negative energy will continue to grow and drive us further from the world we ultimately want. If we can instead take that energy and put it towards all of the good happening in our community, we will actively attract more good in our lives.
The Good Weekend serves to empower individuals and remind them that they have the power to create change. Each dollar spent is a vote that shapes the world we live in and decides who controls it. We can shift the entire economy by merely supporting businesses that we believe in and contributing to the ideas that feed our souls.
Why did you choose the location?
The location actually chose me. I own a company called Wunderkid, a social enterprise committed to helping young artists pursue their dreams. The current tenants of the space, For The Social Good, contacted me as they wanted to display Wunderkid art in their space. I came to visit the venue and realized that we could do something much more impactful than just an art show—-we could bring together the entire community to celebrate all of the phenomenal initiatives taking place in Southern California.
What was the reaction/feedback you received about the event?
I am beyond blessed to say that the event was an absolute success. All of the vendors, attendees and speakers gushed about how infectious and beautiful the energy was throughout the day. It was electric inside and I hope everyone walked away from the event empowered and optimistic about the future of our world.
Which brands participated in the event?
We were incredibly lucky to secure some really large brands like TOMS, Krochet Kids and good hYOUman. What made it even more special was that these brands were setup next to newer brands looking to forge their way in the social enterprise space. It was like everyone was on an equal playing field and you could feel a communal bond over everyone’s desire to create meaningful impact in our world.
What advice would you give someone who wants to create a similar event?
First off, you can do it. There will be times where it feels like everything is imploding, but just weather through it and TRUST. Some details fell into place in the last 48 hours leading up to the event, but somehow everything came together beautifully.
What was the peak and pit of planning?
The peak was when I had the opportunity to speak on a panel regarding Creating a Business With Purpose. During that discussion, I had a profound realization that I want to empower people to pursue their dreams. I feel so passionate about telling women that their dreams are important and should be celebrated and I’m excited to pursue more platforms for speaking in the future.
The pit was all of the logistical planning i.e. securing permits, insurance, etc. There is quite a bit of red tape involved in planning an event in West Hollywood and there were moments where I wasn’t sure it would all come together in time.
Did this event teach you something new about your creativity? If so, how?
Yes, as a choreographer, I normally share my creative spirit through movement. However, it was thrilling to think about creating a visual experience for the event that would take attendees through a journey of empowerment. We used opportunities like the Photo Booth, the chalkboard wall and the decor as creative vehicles to drive our mission and these creative touches set us apart from the pack.
For more on Denise, visit her at www.wunderkid.co
For more on The Good Weekend and upcoming events, visit www.thegoodweekend.com
Photography courtesy of Joseph Ramli