🍁November & October Highlights🍁

Photo By: Nat Visualz

This is one of my favorite times of year. The leaves are changing, and there’s finally a little space to reflect before the end-of-year rush kicks in. Thanksgiving cooking also becomes my favorite sport, as I prepare for a week of marathon cooking. (Navigating the aisles of Berkeley Bowl on Sunday was no joke!) 

I’m genuinely thankful for this community we’ve built together and how we continue to show up for one another—not just as industry peers, but as friends. If you ever need support, have a question, or just want to bounce an idea around, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Our events are possible because of the volunteered time of our Board and committees, the generosity of our showcasing partners, and the heart of this community. Thank you for being part of it and showing up! 

With the holidays approaching, I also want to give a little love to our members who are small business owners. If you’re planning your shopping, consider supporting local on Small Business Saturday.

Lastly, if you're able, please consider supporting those in need during this difficult time of year. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and I hope to see you at our December mixer!

xx,

Charmaine

ILEA-NCC President

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Event Details:

• Gibsons Irish Pub | 1387 Locust St, Walnut Creek

• Tuesday, December 16, 2025 | 4:30- 7:30PM 

• Small bites will be provided by Gibsons

• The bar will be open for guests to grab their favorite drinks for purchase
  

Toys for Tots Donations:

ILEA-NCC will donate $5 from every ticket sold to Toys for Tots. We’ll also host an onsite opportunity drawing! Bring a toy to receive one complimentary entry. Additional entries are available for $5 each or five for $20.

$5 for Members

$25 for Future Members

On-site registration will be available.

REGISTER

Harvest & Bloom

Wednesday, November 19

Our members only event was a warm and festive evening at Day Darmet’s beautifully styled studio. Members were inspired by Dizzy Bird Floral's expertise to create some fun, seasonal arrangements. Everyone enjoyed seasonal bites and sips, and plenty of time to mingle as we approach the end of another busy events season.

Thank you again to Day Darmet and Dizzy Bird Floral for partnering with ILEA-NCC for our final members only event of the year!

View All Photos By Zac Borja

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Rising Above the Crowd

Wednesday, October 28

Photos By: Nat Visualz

ILEA-NCC’s Educational Panel brought together event professionals for an engaging discussion on building stronger, more collaborative industry relationships. Thank you again to the Ferry Building for hosting, and our vendor partners, including Hills Catering, Liquid Happiness, Two Gems, Chairs For Events, Nat Visualz, and Pop Fiction.

PHOTO GALLERY

Join us in welcoming our new and returning ILEA members!

John Avilla, Sound Union Marina Cabeza, Teleféric Barcelona Joy Light, East Bay Regional Park District

Shareen O'Valle, Pepita Catering Arnie Roberts, SMART-reg International Samantha O'Neil, Another Planet Entertainment