If you’ve ever wondered how to actually build strong connections in the wedding industry—or felt unsure about where to start with networking—this episode is for you. I sat down with Kevin Dennis, owner of Fantasy Sound Event Services and editor of WeddingIQ, to talk all things community, connection, and (you guessed it) networking tips.
Kevin’s been in the wedding industry since the late ’80s, and if anyone knows the power of a solid referral or long-term relationship, it’s him. From DJing his way through college to now running a successful production company and leading a 700+ member local networking group, Kevin’s story is full of wisdom—and plenty of humor too.
From “Record Spinner” to Industry Leader
Kevin’s journey started like many creative businesses do—with a side hustle and a spark. He began DJing in 1989 while still in college. Eventually, he went all-in and never looked back. Fast forward to today, and Fantasy Sound is a full-service event production company serving the Livermore, California area. Kevin also runs WeddingIQ, a blog and podcast that brings industry professionals together to share business tips, insights, and real-world lessons.
When I asked Kevin how networking contributed to his success, he told me flat-out: “I wouldn’t be here today without it.”
Back in the early days of his business, Kevin joined a weekly 7 AM networking group (yes, 7 AM!). He was the only DJ, surrounded by all types of professionals—caterers, lawyers, bridal shops, you name it. At 22, he admits he didn’t take it seriously at first, showing up late and in a baseball cap. But one day, a caterer called him out during a speed networking session: “You don’t look like you want to be here. You don’t look like you’re serious about your business.”
That conversation changed everything. Kevin started dressing the part and showing up differently. Six months later, that same caterer gave him his first opportunity. Today, she owns two venues that now account for about 60% of Kevin’s revenue. One tough-love moment turned into a decades-long partnership. Talk about powerful networking.
Online vs. In-Person: Why Relationships Still Matter
In today’s digital world, it’s tempting to think that online networking is enough. But as Kevin put it, “It’s easy to be a keyboard warrior.” Face-to-face connection still matters—especially in the wedding industry, where so much of our work relies on trust, referrals, and collaborative energy. Being present at local events allows vendors to get to know each other personally. “We know about each other’s kids, our struggles, our wins,” Kevin said. “You don’t get that through DMs.”
The biggest networking tip Kevin emphasized again and again? Consistency. Show up regularly. Join no more than two groups so you don’t burn out, and actually attend the events. Whether it’s your local chamber of commerce, an association like NACE or WIPA, or an informal meetup of fellow creatives, the key is to pick your spots and stay visible.
“If you don’t show up, people will forget about you,” Kevin said. He knows this firsthand—after spending years focused on national networking with WIPA, he realized his local relationships had started to fade. Once he began showing up again in his community, people literally said, “Oh, I forgot about you!” It was a wake-up call—and a great reminder that visibility is everything when it comes to networking.
How to Network Without Burning Out
One of the things I appreciated most about this conversation was Kevin’s empathy for introverts. Believe it or not, he considers himself one too. Despite being a speaker and emcee, he still finds walking into a room of strangers challenging. His advice? Bring a wing person. And instead of handing out 50 business cards, aim for just a few real conversations. Kevin tells his team to connect with just two to four people per event. “That’s where the secret sauce is,” he said.
Another of Kevin’s best networking tips is to be a connector. If you’re in a conversation and think, “Oh, you need to meet this person,” go make the introduction. People remember and value those who connect them to others. In fact, one of the most well-known people in Kevin’s market is someone who simply excels at making meaningful introductions.
Creating Community: Tri-Valley Wedding Pros
Kevin doesn’t just attend networking events—he created one of the most successful local groups in his region. Tri-Valley Wedding Professionals started because there wasn’t a strong presence for vendors in his immediate area. They began with casual quarterly events, and over time, added speakers and education based on attendee feedback. Today, the group has grown to over 700 people and regularly features national speakers like The Knot’s Tom Chelednik.
The group remains non-member-based, with a grassroots feel that local vendors love. And because Kevin runs the group, new vendors are often told, “You’ve got to meet Kevin.” It’s become a powerful way to stay visible, offer value, and grow long-term relationships in the community.
Supporting Each Other Beyond Referrals
While referrals are the ultimate goal, Kevin says support can (and should) go deeper. After every event, his team reaches out to their creative partners—yes, partners, not “vendors”—to ask how it was working together. They also look for ways to offer practical help, like setting up sound systems for winery events at no charge, or promoting partner work on social media.
He encourages creatives to be generous—share your photos, tag your friendors, and amplify each other online. “There’s power in being the vendor who gives,” Kevin shared. That includes building great relationships with your competitors. “We can’t do every wedding,” he said, “so it helps to have people we trust and can refer to.”
Final Networking Tips to Take With You
As we wrapped up, I asked Kevin what one piece of networking advice he would give wedding professionals and creative entrepreneurs to implement today.
His answer? “Bring business cards.” Yes, even in 2025. Not everyone is going to scan your QR code or remember your Instagram handle. Having a card on hand shows you’re prepared and professional.
And most importantly: play the long game. Relationships take time. Kevin says it often takes two to three years of consistent involvement in a group before you start seeing real business come from it. “You have to show up, again and again,” he reminded me. “That’s when the trust starts to build.”
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Kevin shared so many gems in this conversation, and I hope these networking tips inspire you to build community in a way that feels aligned, generous, and sustainable. Whether you’re an introvert looking for connection, a seasoned pro wanting to deepen relationships, or someone ready to start your own group—you’re not alone.
You can find Kevin at fantasysound.com and weddingiq.com, or follow him on Instagram at @fsesevents and @wedding_iq.
If you loved this conversation, be sure to share it on Instagram and tag me @christijohnsoncreative. I’d love to hear your biggest takeaway from the episode.
And if you’re looking for personalized support and strategy to grow your dream biz with clarity, joy, and confidence, come check out the Dream Biz Strategy Lab. Doors open soon!
