The WeWork Parties
WeWork was legendary for its parties before the collapse in late 2019, and there’s no denying—they were incredible. That said, I’m not going to dwell on them too much. Beyond the memories, there isn’t a lot to take away from these events—other than the high cost associated with creating unmatched employee experiences.
During my first week at WeWork, I was flown to London for Summer Camp 2017. It was a surreal way to start a job. I met two new colleagues who had just joined, and we immediately clicked as we walked across the festival-like campgrounds, taking in the scene. It honestly felt like an MTV event—everywhere we looked, people were ridiculously good-looking, the kind of crowd you’d expect to see in a music video. That night, Two Door Cinema Club performed live, and it was a great way to end the day. Or so I thought. Back at my tent, the party raged on, with people stumbling in and out of nearby campsites. At one point, I had to put on earphones to block out a nearby couple—it was that kind of night.
By Summer Camp 2018, the scale had only grown. It was packed with activities: kayaking, zip lining, obstacle courses, drum circles, archery, rock climbing, volleyball, and basketball. Some of the speeches were so over-the-top that they had us rolling our eyes, but the energy and camaraderie among colleagues made up for it.
The performances at these events were just as extravagant. WeWork brought in artists like Lorde, The Chainsmokers, and Bastille to headline company events. These moments were exciting, but they also reflected the company’s excess. The parties and perks were unmatched, but they came with an equally unmatched price tag.
In hindsight, these events were emblematic of the culture at the time—big, bold, and fun, but ultimately unsustainable. While they brought people together and created amazing memories, they also signaled the company’s willingness to spend heavily on spectacle, no matter the cost.
Lessons From WeWork’s Parties
- Unmatched Experiences Come at a Cost
Extravagant employee perks can build morale but risk unsustainable spending. - Culture Reflects Priorities
Big, bold events showcased WeWork’s ambition but also its excesses. - Spectacle Can Distract From Reality
Grand gestures often mask deeper issues, highlighting the need for balanced decision-making. - Energy and Camaraderie Matter
Well-executed events can foster connections and boost team morale, even amid chaos.