January 2026: Kicking Off the Year with Purpose!

7 hours ago
3 min read

Napa-Sonoma VP of Comms, Krystina Orona and Charmaine at "What's in the Glass?", a joint program with ILEA NSC & NCC.

Happy New Year, ILEA fam. There’s something about January that always brings a mix of energy and reflection—fresh starts, new ideas, and a chance to reset. At the same time, I know the world doesn’t pause just because the calendar turns, and many of us are navigating heaviness alongside that.

This industry is built on relationships and the care we show one another extends beyond the events we produce. While it hasn’t been easy to write this letter given everything happening in our country, I find real comfort in the strength of our community and the support we have here in the Bay Area.

Looking ahead, I’m excited about the opportunities this year holds. I just returned from our San Diego regional training with our West Coast chapter leaders, our Designer Showcase Committee is forming, and our Board will realign to make sure we’re energized for the rest of the year.

Wishing you all strength with the weeks to come! Good luck to those powering through the Superbowl and can’t wait to see what 2026 has in store.

xx,

Charmaine

ILEA-NCC President

Membership Mixer

Wednesday, February 18

It’s that time again! Get ready for another ILEA-NCC Membership Networking Mixer, an evening designed to spark conversation, collaboration, and meaningful connections. Join a vibrant mix of event professionals as you reconnect with familiar faces, meet new industry peers, and experience the value of being part of the ILEA-NCC community.

This mixer welcomes both current and prospective members for a relaxed night of networking, idea-sharing, and community building. The evening reflects ILEA-NCC’s commitment to fostering strong industry relationships, professional growth, and an inclusive network that supports and elevates event professionals across the Bay Area.

Event Details:

Wednesday, February 18

5:00–8:00 PM

Beacon Grand, The Post Room | 450 Powell St, San Francisco

Light bites provided | Cash bar available

Free for members | $20 for future members

Signature Event: Designer Showcase

Wednesday, March 18

Are you a creative? Do you have an idea you want to see come to life? We're building teams of designers, caterers, entertainers, and more! Join the planning committee, showcase your work or volunteer!

Reach out to info@ileancc.org for more information

Joint Educational Event

Tuesday, January 20

What’s In The Glass? brought together members of ILEA-NCC and ILEA Napa-Sonoma for an engaging evening of education and inspiration. Attendees enjoyed thoughtful insights from industry experts and sampled featured beverages while exploring emerging trends shaping today’s event experiences. The conversation sparked fresh ideas for staying relevant and innovative in an ever-evolving market. Check out some key takeaways below:

Shifts in alcohol consumption are cyclical, but today’s changes are happening faster and across a broader audience than ever before.
Inclusivity is now central to hospitality, zero-proof and non-alcoholic options should receive the same creativity, quality, and care as traditional offerings.
Education and experience matter: from wine education and venue programming to interactive and alternative beverage options, guests are seeking connection and shared experiences.
Proactively offering inclusive beverage options helps set expectations, supports guest wellness, and creates more memorable events.

Special thanks to our panelists Mimi Gatens of Treasury Wine Estate and Shlomo Franco of San Francisco Cocktail Club, and to moderator Raquel Bickford of ROQUE Events for leading a dynamic discussion.