Oscars Weekend’s Hottest Event: The Plus 1 Network Pre-Oscars Experience
- By: Julianne Elise Beffa
The Must-Attend Event for Hollywood’s Movers & Shakers…
On Friday night, AKA Oscars weekend, the top 1% of entertainers, entrepreneurs, and investors gathered at a breathtaking The Estate Club property to celebrate the biggest weekend in Hollywood. Who else could pull off such an elite, star-studded gathering amidst the frenzy of Oscars weekend? Plus 1 Network founder, Joivan Wade, of course.
The night was hosted by the dynamic duo, Joivan Wade and the ever-glamorous (and just as sweet IRL) Melissa Williams. As soon as I walked into the stunning Hollywood Hills mansion, my New Yorker soul lit up. There’s just something about a room filled with power players, energy buzzing, and the sense that everyone in attendance is someone worth knowing. ‘THIS is why I moved to LA,’ I thought to myself.
The moment I stepped inside, I spotted the incredibly talented Justin Cornwell—AKA the mega-hot football player from Bel-Air—and before I could even gather my composure, I saw the beloved Jimmy Akingbola, aka Geoffrey, also from Bel-Air. I had just run into him at Cori Broadus’ CHOC launch party a few weeks before, so naturally, I had to remind him that I’m everywhere these days. What can I say? I’m a busy gal.
From the moment guests entered, the vibes were immaculate. To break the ice, everyone was handed a card from Plus 1 Network’s new card game, designed to encourage conversation and eliminate the dreaded small talk. Genius move. I’ve been to my fair share of Hollywood events where guests are either glued to their phones or locked in conversations with the same five people they always see. Not here. Within minutes, I was deep in conversation with some of the most brilliant, like-minded people I’ve ever met.
And let’s talk about the drinks! The Blackstorm Brand, a black-owned brand, kept our glasses full all night with their dangerously delicious cocktails. You know the kind—the ones that taste so smooth you forget they’re strong, until you’re suddenly on the dance floor feeling a little too good. Speaking of the dance floor, the music was top-tier. The DJ knew exactly how to keep the energy high, blending everything from hip-hop classics to Afrobeat bangers, my absolute favorite genres of music.
Between sips of my cocktail and rounds of the Plus 1 Network game, I found myself in the most engaging conversations. It wasn’t just your typical “What do you do?” chatter. It was deep, inspiring, and, at times, hilariously unfiltered. That’s the magic of a well-curated guest list—when you put brilliant, ambitious people in one room with the right atmosphere, the synergy is electric.
Joivan Wade took the stage midway through the night to deliver a powerful speech on the importance of networking and meaningful conversation. He spoke passionately about how true success isn’t just about what you know, but who you know—and how you nurture those relationships. He emphasized that Plus 1 Network isn’t just about elite gatherings; it’s about creating a community of ambitious, like-minded individuals who uplift and support each other. As he shared his vision for the future, it became clear that Plus 1 Network is only getting started. With its rapid growth and expansion, this network is set to redefine how Hollywood’s power players connect, collaborate, and create lasting impact.
One of my favorite moments? Midway through the night, I ended up in a circle with a group of investors and creatives discussing the future of entertainment and how technology is shifting the landscape. The passion, the ideas, the sheer level of intellect—it was like a live TED Talk, but with better drinks and a much better dress code.
Of course, no high-profile event is complete without a little celebrity magic. As the night went on, more familiar faces arrived, each adding to the already insane energy in the room. It wasn’t one of those stiff, overly curated events where people are too cool to have fun—this was a celebration in every sense of the word. Cameras flashed and photos were taken against a stunning Plus 1 Network backdrop, thanks to Countless Captures 360.
By the time I left, I felt exhilarated, inspired, and maybe just a little bit buzzed (thank you, The Blackstorm Brand). The Plus 1 Network Pre-Oscars Experience wasn’t just another party—it was a masterclass in how to curate meaningful connections, create a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere, and, most importantly, have an unforgettable time while doing it.
Also, Loop readers, you’re in luck! Plus 1 Network is looking to expand their membership base, so if you want to be inside the next glamorous event, submit an application, here!
So, to Joivan Wade and the entire Plus 1 Network team, consider this my official RSVP for your next event. Because if this event proved anything, it’s that some gatherings aren’t just worth attending—they’re an absolute must.
