Why 2026 Is the Year of Gathering: The Shift from Online Courses to In-Person Learning for Wedding Pros
Hey, friends! If you’re feeling slightly (or massively) burnt out by online courses, you are not alone. There’s been a big shift brewing in the wedding and events industry, and today I’m breaking down why in-person gatherings are having a MAJOR comeback in 2026. We’re talking everything from huge conferences to intimate five-person retreats, and why getting together face-to-face (or at least Zoom-to-Zoom!) might just be the secret ingredient for your next big business breakthrough.
So, let’s talk about why online courses are declining, why small group events are so hot right now, and a little announcement from yours truly at the end.
Goodbye, Endless Online Courses
Alright, let’s rewind a sec. The last few years have been a real renaissance for online courses (if you had internet access and a passion, there was a course just for you). But let’s be honest: things got a little out of hand. Every time I scrolled Instagram, it seemed like someone’s trendy cousin was launching “The Ultimate Guide to something…in Seven Weeks.”
The big problem? Not all of those courses were created equally. Some were incredible, but many were total duds. It got tough to figure out who to trust. Some folks poured good money into a virtual black hole, hoping for magic, and walked away with empty wallets and half-finished modules.
And then there’s what I call “accountability amnesia.” (Raise your hand if you’ve bought a course and, um, never opened it. Or only finished exactly 1.5 lessons?) Online learning can be great for accessibility (no travel, sometimes lower prices, learning in your pajamas!) but it’s not always great for actually turning that information into real action.
Why In-Person Learning Is Coming Back in 2026
Here’s the scoop: Wedding professionals are craving connection. Not just connection with their clients, but with each other and with real, live experts who get their businesses, quirks, and dreams.
So in 2026, we’re seeing people flocking to:
Intimate mastermind retreats (think 5-10 attendees) - you know my favorite is the abundance group!
Boutique conferences (fewer, deeper sessions!)
One-on-one mentorship sessions - I offer 1:1 sessions for new wedding and event planners!
1. Accountability is Everything
When you’re learning in a group, or in a one-on-one setting, there’s just more “I-see-you” happening. You show up. There’s somebody who’s going to check in on your progress, celebrate your wins, and even lovingly call you out when you stall. We don’t let anyone fall off the wagon!
2. Real Feedback for Real People
But here’s the magic: smaller gatherings mean customized support. Whether you’re a baby planner just getting started or a seasoned pro ready to level up your brand, you get to ask questions that matter to your business. No generic, one-size-fits-all advice. The person leading actually gets to know YOU and offers advice just for your needs, not just a recycled module from 2019.
3. Community Is Game-Changing
You can brainstorm, swap horror stories, and dream big together. Small group learning is warm, safe, and a lot more fun. The business breakthroughs happen in conversations between sessions, over coffee, or in those “aha!” moments when you realize everybody shares the same struggles.
Is There Still a Place for Online Learning?
Now, I’m not here to toss all online learning out the window because some online courses absolutely rock and make learning more accessible for busy pros or those in remote locations. I’ve taken some that genuinely changed my business.
BUT, the real value I see these days comes when those online offerings are paired with live support: think, monthly zoom check-ins, small batch masterminds, or ongoing mentorship so you’re not left alone trying to figure out “lesson 8.”
If you’re spending money on education, look for something that guarantees real, personalized follow-up. If there’s an actual person (not a robot) on the other side who will make sure you don’t stay stuck then you’re golden.
Why I’m Leaning All-In on Live, Small Group, and One-on-One Mentorship
Now, if you know me, you know I love a good conference, but I really light up when I get to connect one-on-one.
Let’s face it: When I was starting out, what I truly needed wasn’t another PDF download or evergreen e-course. I needed someone to sit down with me (over Zoom or coffee), genuinely listen to my weird questions, and say: “Gabby, here’s exactly where to focus next. No, you don’t have to master TikTok yet. Yes, you can charge that much!”
And let’s be real: sometimes you need a cheerleader, sometimes you need a reality check, and sometimes you need someone to just listen and untangle that business brain.
So, in 2026, I’ve intentionally carved out space not just to *attend* events and masterminds with people I admire, but also to offer that magic to the next wave of wedding pros.
Introducing: My 1:1 Sessions for Wedding Planners & New Event Pros
Here’s the exciting part! I’m opening up my 1:1 sessions for those of you diving into the wedding planning world or just starting your own event business!
Who is this for? You’re likely a wedding pro (or dreaming of becoming one!) looking for actual, actionable strategy and support.
What’s involved? We’ll schedule either a 30- or 60-minute session. The time is yours! We dig into YOUR business, what fires you up, what’s holding you back, and set you up with a clear roadmap. You can send me questions before your call so that we can dive right in.
Why is this different? It’s not a prerecorded, generic template. It’s not a mega group where you might be too shy to speak. It’s YOU, ME, and a focused session designed around your goals. Genuine conversation, real guidance, and yes, accountability so you’ll actually take action.
I want this to be what I would have loved when I started out which is real, personalized guidance, from someone who’s walked the wedding planning walk.
How to Make the Most of In-Person or One-on-One Learning
Whether you join me, another mentor, or hop into a live retreat or mastermind, here are some quick tips to get the most bang for your educational buck:
Show up ready to share: The good, the bad, the incredibly awkward. Vulnerability is the secret sauce!
Ask specific questions: The more YOU-driven your questions, the more specific and helpful the advice.
Take notes and take action: Plan a quick follow-up with your mentor or accountability buddy to review your takeaways and set actual deadlines.
Keep investing in yourself: Your business grows as you do. Keep learning, keep asking, keep connecting.
Ready To Gather (and Grow) in 2026?
There you have it! Less endless lesson-watching, more meaningful connections. If you’re ready for real progress, find your people, find your mentor, and don’t look back!
And hey, if you want to grab one of my 1:1 wedding pro sessions, be. sure to reserve your spot on my calendar. I can’t wait to cheer you on as you build the business (and life) you love.
Gabby
