Yeah, the GAYVNs are open only to nominees, judges and sponsors, as Lavendar said. There is an after-party at the Abbey that Chi Chi LaRue throws, but it is invitation-only as well. You'd have to get in touch with Channel 1 Releasing and see if they would put you on their list.

As far as I know, there isn't a pre-party. It's pretty much the awards party/show and then the after-party at the Abbey.