What did people think of the article's use of opening night at the opera and symphony as examples of attaining insider social event status in the bay area? I am a bit skeptical of this since opening night is not by invitation only, seats are available to whoever wants to buy a ticket. On the other hand, most charity galas and such that end up on the social register page are also available to whoever has the money to buy a ticket as well.
I know someone who used to be a very successful fundraiser for a museum. The unwritten subtext is if you want to be 'Chair of the ball' is that it is a sizable donation ($25-$50k to start).
Money is the price to entry but navigating the social hierarchy (e.g. socialite) is something that requires acumen, not just money.
I am reminded of a Brasilian girl who moved to our neighborhood/school district in middle school (most of us had known each other since early grades). She invited literally everyone to a big party (not extravagant by any means). Quickly become integrated into the social circles. But her ongoing popularity was more due to her acumen and personality.