When and why an AI innovator and startup founder is choosing human creativity over computer intelligence

Artist Kari Forsthoefel for Dressit

pairing innovation with human connection and celebrating
in-person moments

AI and the Intersection of Human Creativity and Technology| Becca Wenning

AI is a hot topic right now, which could be frightening, especially for somebody in the wedding industry. A couple of weeks ago, Team Dressit attended a conference called AI Rising in Columbus, Ohio. Afterward, I shared a story about Sophia on my personal Instagram and received some negative feedback. All feedback is a gift, whether good or bad, but most people seem freaked out by the mention of this human-like robot! - It confirmed that we are often scared of the things we don't understand - the exact reason that I attended that conference.

Despite our name, Dressit is not just about incorporating AI into the wedding industry. We have an exciting vision and roadmap for the future, but at the heart of our mission is the power of pairing innovation with human connection and celebrating in-person moments.

Artist Kari Forsthoefel for Dressit

knowing the limitations of AI and tapping into local talent

I recently contacted a local art teacher to create illustrations for our brand. I had this grand vision beyond our app, understood the value of strong branding, and knew she was very talented. Plus, I wanted to connect IRL and support someone from our community. Initially, she was hesitant to attempt something out of her comfort zone. But, a few days later, she returned eager to collaborate and excited to take on a new challenge. When we met up and she delivered the first collection of artwork, she told me, with the biggest smile, "Becca, I am having so much fun with this opportunity. Thank you so much for asking me and trusting me!" 

“If we can distinguish between the two, (AI and human creativity) we can grow so much more as people and tech innovators.”

— Sarah Lagrotteria, Chief Education Officer | Just Bloom School

I could have easily asked Dall-E or some AI image platform to create some illustrations for us, but they would have looked and felt "artificial." I wanted something authentic, like the experience and the wedding dresses at the bridal boutiques we will partner with. As someone who identifies as creative, I place a significant value on artistic ability, and talented individuals (aka humans!) will always form my company's core. Together, we will understand and respect the limitations of AI and collaborate to foster innovation and nurture a creative mindset for Dressit.

Choosing human creativity over computer intelligence brings me to a recent conversation at Just Bloom School with Sarah Lagrotteria, Chief Education Officer (she is brilliant, BTW!). She said, "If we can distinguish between the two, we can grow so much more as people and tech innovators." I couldn’t agree more.

unlock a world of possibilities for the future of weddings

The wedding industry is a unique space reserved for those with grit, patience, and the willingness to live deep in the trenches of emotions. AI can never replace the key elements that make the wedding industry so unique, nor can it take away the hard work and dedication of bridal boutique owners and their consultants, who are the true backbone of this industry. 

While I may not be an expert in the AI space, I know that it can have a profound impact on our industry. I am learning, exploring, and advocating for the positive adoption of AI in the wedding industry, all of which is evident in what we are building with Dressit.

Dressit leverages AI to alleviate some of the mundane tasks that often consume the time and energy of bridal boutique owners and consultants. By automating processes like matching brides to boutiques, bride education, and assisting brides in their decision-making, Dressit can free up valuable resources, leaving you with more time to create personalized and efficient shopping experiences based on human connection.

I am that true 'glass half full' girl who sees opportunities for growth and innovation everywhere. AI alone will not be the solution that the wedding industry needs. But, by embracing these new technologies and pairing them with human creativity, we can evolve so much more as people and innovators and unlock a world of possibilities for the future of weddings.