The Penner Legacy Scholarship

Honoring the Life, Values, and Educational Spirit of “Miss Dorothy”

The Penner Legacy Scholarship was established in honor of the late Dorothy Penner, affectionately known throughout the Association of Bridal Consultants as Miss Dorothy. A long-time ABC member and passionate advocate for professionalism and education, Miss Dorothy believed deeply in the power of learning, etiquette, and personal integrity to elevate both individual careers and the wedding industry as a whole.

Through this scholarship, ABC proudly carries forward her legacy by awarding registration to World of Weddings to first-time conference attendees who demonstrate a commitment to growth, participation, and service within the professional wedding community.

The Penner Legacy Scholarship reflects Miss Dorothy’s philosophy that education is never finished, generosity strengthens us all, and kindness should be the hallmark of every business.

Lessons Learned from Miss Dorothy

• Always dress your best.

• Etiquette rules will bend but should never be broken.

• Be proud of what you do—enough to put your name on it.

• You will never know it all. Education is the key to success.

• Generosity should be a principle in each person’s life.

• Kindness should be the hallmark of your business.

• Clients should feel like guests.

Scholarship Award

• Covers World of Weddings conference registration

• Awarded annually to two (2) recipients

• Must be used for the current year’s conference

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be an ABC Registered Wedding Planner, Vendor, or Auxiliary Member at the time of application

• Be a first-time attendee of World of Weddings

• Demonstrate commitment to education and participation within ABC

Application Requirements

• Completed scholarship application form

• Essay (1,000 words or less) addressing:

  • Why you want to attend World of Weddings

  • What you hope to gain from the experience

  • How you will apply what you learn to your professional growth

  • Why you joined ABC and how you have participated locally or nationally

⚠️ Please do not include identifying personal information (name, business, or state) in the essay.

Timeline

• Applications due: July 31

• Recipients notified: By September 1

• Announcement: At World of Weddings. 

Please submit the application online (below) or via emailing the application to Teddy Perry, MWP at Bearableweddings@aol.com. OR mail five (5) copies to Teddy Perry, Bearable Events, 527 Brentfield Dr., Greencastle, IN 46135.