Come for the introductions. Stay for the connections.

DES events are designed for professionals in the construction industry: Architects, Engineers, General Contractors, Subcontractors, Trade Partners, Commercial Real Estate and Finance who want meaningful connections in a casual setting — without making networking weird.

Apply to Attend See Upcoming

Pick your room

Upcoming events.

We review every application. Premium room, premium people.

Event flow

What to expect from a DES event.

Casual arrival & open networking

Show up, scan the QR code, grab a drink, start talking. No name-tag relay race.

Sponsor welcome & spotlight

A short intro from the night's sponsor — part of the room, not a logo on a flyer.

Brief panel intro

DES leadership says hi, sets the tone, and stays out of the way.

The wooden bowl drawing

Drop a card. One guest takes home the handcrafted wooden bowl, turned by founder Michael Root.

No forced scripts. No aggressive selling. No one making you do a trust fall in business casual.

Who attends

A room built around the built environment.

DES is a strong fit for:

Business ownersBuilders & contractors Architects & designersEngineers Real estateFinance & banking Restoration companiesTrade partners Home servicesStrategic partners

Apply

Apply to attend a DES event.

We review every guest to keep the room right. Approved applicants get an event-ready email next.

At the event

Skip the line at the door.

DES events use Real Networking for check-in. Scan a QR at the desk when you arrive for faster check-in plus an instant list of who was in the room afterward.

Visit Real Networking →

FAQ

Common questions.

How do I know if I'm a good fit?

Are you an honest person? Are you willing to help expand the construction industry as a whole? Do you value making real relationships that will last a lifetime? Do you enjoy helping other people succeed? Do you like wooden bowls and want to buy one? Seriously, you must meet all of the above to attend.

Is there a cost to attend?

At this time, there is no cost to attend a monthly DES Group Networking event. Special DES-E (Exclusive) or other DES events may have costs to attend. Inquire within.

What is a DES-E?

Sponsorship can mean many things. Sponsor a monthly DES Group Networking Event, or curate your own DES-E (Exclusive) event where we bring the "30 pieces of flair" and you bring your invite-only clients.

What's the dress code?

Business casual.

What is the code of conduct at an event?

At DES Group Networking, we believe great relationships are built through respect, professionalism, and authentic connection. We ask all attendees to engage with integrity, be respectful of differing viewpoints, and contribute to a positive networking experience. Harassment, discrimination, aggressive sales tactics, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone can connect, learn, and do epic things together.

How does the wooden bowl drawing work?

Drop a business card in the wooden bowl before the drawing. Must be present to win. Digital business cards don't count.

What if I'm approved but can't make it?

No sweat, we'll see you next month. Please let Michael know.

Can I bring a guest?

Only if it is Shakira, Keanu Reeves, or Denzel Washington. Please reach out to Michael a week before an event regarding bringing a guest.

Does Michael really make those wooden bowls?

Of course he does! Each bowl takes about 4 hours. The wood is sourced locally and a lot of work goes into getting the wood, cutting it up to manageable sizes, drying it, turning it on the lathe, sanding, and finishing. Check out his Instagram @somewhere.woodworking or website somewherewoodworking.com for more information.

Does Michael have more wooden bowls for sale?

Of course he does! Just ask!

How do I care for the wooden bowl?

Wooden bowls are intended to be art pieces. The finish is food safe and there's not much you need to do to care for it. If it's dusty, carefully dust it. A can of compressed air works great!

If you intend to use it for food, some fruit is a nice touch. Keep the bowl dry though, water is the enemy.

Hold the bowl with two hands from the bottom, never from the top edge.