A Pat On The Back

I seriously think all those involved in the Association Of Wedding Professionals Malaysia should give themselves a pat on the back - the outgoing committee, the incoming committee, members. It is a challenge running an organisation, what more a non-profit and an association that has had its share of skeptics and critics.

AWP celebrated its 1st anniversay today. As I reflect on how much I have contributed to the association, I find myself thinking 'adequate' but definitely not as much as some of my fellow committee members, past and present. It is a testament to the persevering nature of my colleagues at AWP that has enabled it to reach this milestone. The road has been bumpy to say the least. Getting the industry to support the association has not been easy, getting the fact across that the association does not 'belong' to its founding members even more confoundingly difficult. Members vote for office-bearers, plain and simple.

Whatever the case may be, and having given AWP a fair chance of proving its authenticity in its aspirations, I would draw this conclusion. It is about partnerships. It is about different vendors coming together, developing a certain level of trust amongst each other, nurturing credibility within the industry, and ultimately supporting one another in our business endeavours. To fully appreciate its objectives, one has to be open-minded, be willing to support its causes by contributing one's time and effort, be able to take criticism, be bold enough to give criticism and most importantly be confident enough to work as a team. Here's to a smoother ride in the year to come AWP! By the way, here is the Vice President's take on the day's celebrations.

Photo shot at AWP's 1st birthday bash.