By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – In a celebration of community and business networking, the Wake Up Wednesdays After Hours event drew over 150 participants to 79° West on September 11. The After Hours edition offered a relaxed evening atmosphere for attendees to forge new connections and celebrate the power of local business relationships. With a good turnout and an energetic environment, this annual gathering showcased the significant role of informal networking in fostering professional growth and community engagement.
A Celebration of Connection and Community
For the past 14 years, Jeff Phillips has been the driving force behind Wake Up Wednesdays, a well-established networking series that typically unfolds in the early hours of the morning. This year’s After Hours event, held at 79° West, marked a special occasion in the annual calendar, bringing together a dynamic mix of regular attendees and newcomers. The event’s success underscored the value of face-to-face interactions and the powerful impact of a supportive local business network.
The Evolution of Wake Up Wednesdays
Wake Up Wednesdays began as a morning networking meeting designed to connect local business professionals in a structured yet informal setting. Held every third Wednesday of the month at the Carolina Brewery in Pittsboro, the event provides a platform for attendees to share brief, 30-second pitches about their businesses. This format ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to present their services and establish new business relationships.
Over the years, the series expanded to include the After Hours events, which have become a highlight for many in the community. These gatherings, which typically occur once a year, offer a more relaxed and social environment compared to the morning meetings. This year’s After Hours event at 79° West was a testament to the continued popularity and importance of these gatherings, reflecting the growing demand for networking opportunities that blend professionalism with social interaction.
Attendees at the Wake Up Wednesday After Hours event listen to a sponsor’s message. (photo by Gene Galin)
A Thriving Event: Highlights from September 11
Jeff felt that this year’s After Hours event at 79° West was a resounding success. With nearly 190 people pre-registered and an engaging atmosphere, the event lived up to its reputation as a great networking occasion. Attendees enjoyed a range of activities designed to foster connections and enhance the networking experience.
Jeff Phillips, the mastermind behind Wake Up Wednesdays, shared his enthusiasm for the event. “The energy here is just fantastic,” he said. “It’s really about the people and making connections. We’ve had some great sponsors, and the turnout has been incredible.” Phillips noted that the introduction game, which encouraged participants to interact and get to know one another, was a highlight of the evening. This approach helped attendees break the ice and form new relationships in a casual, enjoyable setting.
Reflecting on the Past: Memorable Moments
I asked Jeff about some of his favorite memories from past Wake Up Wednesdays events. “One year, we had a Halloween-themed photo booth with all kinds of spooky backgrounds. It was a lot of fun and a great way for people to engage with each other,” he recalled. “Last year, we had a roaming magician who entertained everyone with magic tricks, which was a fantastic way to add a bit of fun to the event.”
These memorable experiences underscore the commitment to creating engaging and enjoyable events that go beyond traditional networking. By incorporating unique elements and interactive activities, Wake Up Wednesdays has adapted to meet the needs and preferences of its attendees.
The Impact of Wake Up Wednesdays on Local Business
The success of Wake Up Wednesdays is not just about the events themselves but also about the tangible benefits they bring to local businesses. Phillips emphasized the significant impact of these networking opportunities on his own business. “Tons of business have come my way through these events,” he said. “I wouldn’t continue to volunteer if it didn’t work personally for me.”
The networking platform provided by Wake Up Wednesdays has facilitated numerous business relationships and collaborations. Phillips highlighted the extensive network of connections that have led to hundreds of thousands of dollars in business transactions. This success story is a testament to the value of face-to-face networking and the positive outcomes that can arise from community-focused events.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect from Wake Up Wednesdays
As Wake Up Wednesdays continues to evolve, Phillips hinted at potential changes based on recent attendance trends. “Based on today’s turnout, we’re probably going to go back to hosting two After Hours events a year,” he noted. The growing popularity of these gatherings suggests a strong demand for additional opportunities to connect and collaborate.
For those interested in experiencing Wake Up Wednesdays, Phillips provided details about the regular morning meetings. Held at the Carolina Brewery in Pittsboro from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. every third Wednesday of the month, these meetings offer a structured networking environment with breakfast and coffee included. Attendees have the chance to deliver brief pitches about their businesses and connect with fellow professionals.
A Community-Centric Networking Success
The Wake Up Wednesdays After Hours event highlighted the importance of community and networking in the business world. With a robust turnout, engaging activities, and a focus on personal connections, the event demonstrated the value of creating spaces where local professionals can come together to support one another and foster growth.
Jeff Phillips’s dedication to Wake Up Wednesdays has had a positive impact on the local business community. Through his efforts, countless relationships have been formed, and numerous business opportunities have emerged. As Wake Up Wednesdays continues to grow and adapt, it remains a vital resource for professionals seeking to expand their networks and engage with their community.
Watch on YouTube – Jeff Philips at Wake Up Wednesdays After Hours – 9.11.24
Video Title: Wake Up Wednesdays After Hours with Jeff Phillips – An Evening of Networking and Fun
00:13 Wake Up Wednesdays After Hours event with great energy and sponsors.
Nearly 190 people pre-registered for the event.
The focus is on connecting people and the fantastic energy.
00:54 Creating connections through games and events
The game helps people introduce and connect with each other.
Regulars have been attending Wake Up Wednesday for about 14 years, with the after-hours event for 10 years.
01:30 Jeff Philips shares some of his best memories from Wake Up Wednesdays After Hours
Jeff recalls a fun memory of having a photo booth with scary backgrounds at the event
Another memory Jeff shares is about having a roaming magician performing magic tricks at the event last year
02:08 Introduction to Wake Up Wednesdays event
Event timings are from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Admission fee is $7 and it is a cash-only payment
02:43 Wake Up Wednesdays – Relaxed networking event
Breakfast and coffee served
Attendees give 30-second speeches
03:30 Networking opportunities and business creation at Wake Up Wednesdays
Meeting every third Wednesday open to all, especially for Business Leaders and job seekers
Allows for networking, creating business opportunities, and assisting others
04:06 Volunteering for 14 years has personally worked for Jeff Phillips
Relationships and business worth hundreds of thousands exchanged at events
Opportunity to build your business and get involved with Business Leaders
04:46 Jeff Philips offers professional moving services for nearly 50 years
Jeff provides moving services for families locally and internationally
Attend Wake Up Wednesdays to meet Jeff and enjoy a good breakfast