But now a burgeoning movement to grow the Paraplanning profession is breaking out and going digital.
Richard Allum, the founder of the Paraplanner Powwow, which started in 2013 as an 'unconference', said he was hugely excited to announce some major developments today.
These include web-based Powwows – being named Howwows - and a "digital tepee" - an online forum giving Paraplanners the chance to debate whenever they want.
Mr Allum said the Powwow was only intended originally as a one off conference but has flourished beyond expectations, with nine connected events having taken place so far.
In the past year-and-a-half, more than 300 Paraplanners have participated in Powwows in Edinburgh, London, Manchester, Nottingham and Leeds. At the national events, Paraplanners have donned war paint and got together in teepees.

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Unveiling the new plans, Mr Allum said there were three key innovations:

1. Howwows: Webcast-based powwows – with content voted for by Powwowers – offering practical tips on day-to-day Paraplanning including techniques, trends and technology.
2. The Big Tent: A digital teepee for Paraplanners with a forum for online debate and discussion hosted at a spruced-up Powwow website.
3. Grow your own Powwow: Making it easier for Paraplanners create their own Powwows by providing the tools and behind-the-scenes support, to run a successful Powwow event.

Mr Allum said: "No fewer than 16 Paraplanners have teamed up to organise mini Powwows – for some it's the first event they've ever had a chance to organise in their career so far.
"Thanks to the participation of Paraplanners across the country, it's fair to say the Powwow is a flourishing not-for-profit movement.
"And thanks to Powwow supporters – 7IM, AXA Wealth, James Hay Partnership, Prudential and Transact – we'll be able to stage another national Powwow in 2015 and invest in new ways to Powwow.
"Because that's what we want to do this year: To extend the reach of the Powwows so no matter who, where and how, any Paraplanner can take part in Powwows."
Mr Allum added organisers are still exploring the idea of shared ownership: a cooperative.
He said: "If it's possible, all Powwow participants will be entitled to an equal stake in the Powwows and their future."