DEIB Summer Reading Initiative

WIPA Philadelphia Launches Summer Reading: The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker One Book. One Summer. One Powerful Step Toward Belonging.

This summer, WIPA Philadelphia is proud to launch our very first Summer Reading initiative, and we’re thrilled to announce that our official selection is The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters by Priya Parker.

In a world where weddings and events are often centered on beauty, logistics, and tradition, Parker challenges us to think deeper: What makes a gathering meaningful? Who gets to feel seen and celebrated? How can we create spaces where people truly belong?

At WIPA Philadelphia, we believe DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) is not just a checklist—it’s a lens through which we reimagine every part of what we do. This book aligns perfectly with that mission. Through our Summer Reading initiative, we’re creating space for reflection, inspiration, and open conversation across our chapter, all while connecting over a shared love of thoughtful gatherings.

We hope this is just the beginning. Imagine the impact if every WIPA chapter across the country participated in the same summer read—coming together in community to explore what belonging looks like in our work, our events, and our organizations. It’s a simple idea with powerful potential: One book. One conversation. One industry, united in growth.

We invite you to read along with us this summer and share your reflections. Together, let’s gather with purpose.