I talked to a handful of people at this event, and one thing is certain: many Arizona men don’t own a suit (Big Thanx to Hunter Warring). Do with that information what you will, but it seems we’re only a couple chess moves away from setting the dress code to nonchalant. Hawaiin officials conduct their business in a Reyn Spooner, Arizona players are unafraid to flex in their Vuori. It was a brisk and windy night, there was plenty of Jambalaya. I didn’t know what King’s Cake was but I’m glad it made an appearance. Talks of financial schemes, technology plays, and artistic values filled the air, some masks on, others off.
-JJ
A vetted one gave me his thoughts via email:
“The tech community in Phoenix often revolves around the same old events - pitching sessions, happy hours, or speaker panels.
But the city has so much more to offer in terms of music, art, technology, and culture.
The Gala featured an open bar with signature Mardi Gras cocktails, a Mardi Gras-themed food menu, live jazz performances, a pop-up art gallery, and a live art show, all held at one of the city's premier venues.
While some events in town boast large budgets and come with a ticket cost, the Gala was coordinated at a fraction of the price and was open to the community for free.
I hope that the Gala inspires more creativity and outside-the-box thinking among the operators in Phoenix, leading to the creation of truly unique and memorable startup events that showcase the full potential of our community.”
When Adam Laor took the mic, a beacon was casted. Here is a shortened & paraphrased transcription of his speech:
“I didn’t know what to expect when coming from New York City, going from the concrete jungle to the desert. It’s enchanting to be around these founders and funders. I’m looking forward to building this place alongside the founders in JamPad. Thanks Philip ;) “
Another vetted stealth [founder] gave me some words.
[11:53 AM] Kind of mid ngl
[11:53 AM]I don't like wearing formal clothes, but like [person] said “there were too many bankers and service providers”
[11:54 AM]Also it was really cold
[11:54 AM]But it was still a pretty fun event, Henry dinner was [fire emoji]
I heard similar takes. This Henry dinner that was referenced was indeed pretty fire. It was a JamPad afterparty and the post-meal founders were ready to get back to jamming at their operations. The enchantment was running it’s course.
If you arrived while the sun was on its decline, you would have seen the North Side of Camelback standing strong in Crimson. That was the only external view needed. The activity on the rooftop was undoubtedly something special. Murmurs of “How did we get here?” played through the catacombs of many minds as each conversation continued. Movers and Shakers gathered around on the rooftop, obstacles revered, for the obstacle is the way. Smiles from previous wins, greetings were established with future victories in mind. If you want to change the game, you have to play it. Even if that literally means you have to put on a suit.