Education Seminar Descriptions

Event Solutions and partners are coming together in Vegas to offer the best event and catering education in the industry. Just use the codes listed here to help you plan.

Every class is coded with initials of the organization offering the session. Following the class title, there’s a notation for a specific education track or series, necessary to fulfill certificate options or to follow a series of classes within a focused industry segment.

Click here for the education seminar overview – just session titles and speakers for quick browsing.

Go here for more about Professional Interest Tracks.

Abbreviation Key
Sunday, Feb. 24
Monday, Feb. 25
Tuesday, Feb. 26
Wednesday, Feb. 27
Thursday, Feb. 28

Abbreviation Key

ES Event Solutions class
IACEP International Association of Corporate Entertainment Producers
CS catersource class*
NACE National Association of Catering Executives*
CIA Culinary Institute of America*
ICA International Caterers Association*
NACE National Association of Catering Executives*
*of interest to business owners and food and beverage pros

** AT Association Track classes
** CT Corporate Track classes
**GS Event Greening Series
UNLV Classes taught by University of Nevada Las Vegas instructors. Those completing all 10 hours of UNLV courses are and eligible for 1 Continuing Education Credit (CEU).
WS Wedding Series, presented jointly by Event Solutions and catersource

** Certificates of Completion are offered to planners who attend five (5) of the designated classes in the Corporate or Association Tracks, designated with CT or AT in the class schedule. This year all the Event Greening classes qualify for the certificate programs. It is not necessary to sign up for the Corporate or Association Track sessions in advance. Seating at all sessions is on a first come, first seated basis. Schedule subject to change.

Sunday, Feb. 24, 2008

1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

CS001 - TAKE FIVE…Regional Wedding Catering Networking [WS]

Wedding style, décor, and menus vary in many ways. Seated dinners may be the rage in the North, reception buffets in the South, and destination weddings in the West. Take this opportunity to meet and network with other event professionals from your area to identify the latest regional trends, discover effective marketing strategies, and learn about unique area venues. Each session will be moderated by a “wedding” event professional in your region who will encourage attendees to share wedding “ideas” with other innovative event professionals based on five geographical style and trend segments: north, midwest, east, south, and international. This is a great time to bring wedding pictures, marketing materials, and unique ideas to share with others.

ES051 - Budgeting Introduction to Financial Management for Events [UNLV]

Speaker: Dr. Kathy Nelson, CSEP, CMP, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Money is a crucial resource to event projects and event organizations; without it, events would not take place. It comes in from those who host, support, sponsor or attend an event, and it goes out to pay for the goods, services and staffing needed to make it happen. Attend this session, and you’ll walk away with the skills that will allow you to achieve the financial goals of the event enterprise.

• Visit the basics of standard accounting principles
• Learn asset and cash flow management
• Development and use of budgets
• Proper costing and pricing strategies

ES056 - The Energy of Synergy: Events and Catering Come Together

Speaker: Laura Schwartz, White House Strategies
Laura Schwartz, former special assistant to President Clinton and the White House director of events for the Clinton administration, leads a panel discussion on the importance of collaboration and inclusiveness in the event profession and how catering and event professionals can move from competition to collaboration. The panel of caterers and event planners will share their real-life businesses success by expanding their talent pool, resources and partners.

• Learn the power of an “inclusive bid” to win the contract
• Discover how to build and increase your business through positive alliances
• Have great relationships, not with vendors but partners — who are part of YOUR team that YOU include as a part of your own new business development strategy to win every contract!

3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

ES057 - Introduction to Risk Management for Events [UNLV]

Speaker: Julia Rutherford Silvers, CSEP, President, Speaking of Events
Risk management is the duty of every event organizer, producer, manager, supplier and participant because it is a legal, financial and ethical responsibility. It involves the protection of people, property, information and other event assets to ensure a safe, successful and sustainable event. In this session, learn how this comprehensive process can be fully integrated into all your event plans and throughout the event management process.

• Examine practices, procedures and strategies to define event risks
• Learn to identify, analyze, plan for response and control the risks associated with your event
• Explore different risks inherent in the design, planning and production of public and private events

ES059 - Do More with Less: Cost Saving Tips for Meeting Planners [CT/AT]

Speaker: Arlene Sheff, CMP, The Boeing Company

Are THEY asking you to do more with less? Join Arlene Sheff, the senior meeting and event planner of The Boeing Company and recipient of the 2007 Event Solutions Spotlight Award for Corporate Planner/Producer of the Year, as she shares creative cost-saving tips that may add to your job security while they impact the bottom line. Learn how to think strategically to determine which cost-saving methods work best for your group, while maintaining quality.

• Learn cost saving tips for saving $$ on food and beverage
• Learn how to avoid last-minute additions to your budget
• Get Sheff’s top tips for negotiating contracts to get the most out of your budget dollar

ES060 - The Color of Success: Designing with the Art and Emotion of Color

Speakers: Ira Mitchell-Steiman, All Over Miami & David Halsey, The Meetinghouse Companies

Event planners and designers will enjoy the high-energy duo of Ira and David. The pair has created a captivating session that will cover everything from color trends and who decides them to the psychology of color and how it sets the tone for an event. Tabletop design, perimeter décor, and stage sets and lighting will be discussed and used in vignettes to visually demonstrate the power of color. From the initial proposal to the final production, color plays an enormous role in both the artistic design and the emotional connection inherent in every event you plan.

• Experience vignettes during the session that help you interpret color theory
• Discover how to incorporate leading color analysts’ predictions into event palettes — and which predictions are the most reliable
• Take home information on every aspect of event design that you can put to use right away

4:45 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

CS004 - How the Conference Works

Michael Roman, President, catersource
Linda West, Director of Education, catersource
John Baragona, President, Event Solutions
This show is the realization of a long-standing vision to bring the huge event industry together. This is a fun, informal get-together where you can ask questions about particular sessions and get organizers’ opinions and insight on what to expect at the 2008 conference. Mike, Linda, and John will review each of the sessions offered this year and give some inside information about the speakers and concepts being taught. This will help you decide which sessions will be best for you.

ES063 - Entertainment Acquisition and Management [UNLV]

Speaker: Dan Nelson, Adjunct Professor, University of Nevada Las Vegas
Entertainment acquisition and management are critical to events in which performers are strolling, singing, playing, juggling, fire eating and unicycling through your event world. Learn the care and feeding of entertainers, from the parameters of control, to liability, to rider negotiation.

• How to make the best deal possible
• Keeping entertainers happy while effectively managing costs
• Maintaining creative input while minimizing legality

ES068 - I Don’t Have Time to Do Timelines! Using Paperwork for Great Efficiency and Greater Success [AT]

Speaker: Cassie Brown, CSEP, Tribble Creative Group

“I don’t have time to do paperwork!” is a common mantra of new planners. While timelines, production schedules and other kinds of paperwork can be time-consuming, they are critical elements of event success. Efficient timelines and production schedules will help you create seamless productions and avoid potential disaster. You can learn to use required paperwork as a planning tool to help communicate key elements to your teammates, vendors and the client. Brown will prove how proper execution of paperwork can turn you into a more creative, efficient and proactive planner.

• Understand the necessity of the paperwork process
• Learn best practices for timelines, meeting notes, meeting agendas and production schedules
• Walk away with examples and know-how to standardize documents to create a more efficient workflow
• Hear real-life examples of potential disasters averted because of efficient execution of paperwork — and how you can do the same
• Learn how to streamline input and create team documents

ES068 - Increase Sales Using Marketing Philosophies to Think Outside the Sales Box [CT]

Speaker: Franklyn Dickson, CMP, former marketing professor and current chairman of Ray Bloch Productions

This seminar will focus on revolutionary academic marketing theory as it relates to the event business. Learning from a true industry leader and author of numerous articles and a book on business management, you’ll discover how to think about your company from a totally new perspective. Dickson will change your view, then transition to discussing how you can increase your sales by using marketing theory to help you think outside the box.

• Review examples showing how a new approach to your sales philosophy will radically affect your business
• Learn to increase your sales while developing a value-added relationship with customers

6:15 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

COCKTAILS & CONNECTIONS - a networking event

Exchange Ideas and make lasting connections with other event professionals and caterers at the Sunday night networking event. Designated areas will welcome specific groups such as Alumni, catersource forum contributors, Chef’s challenge participants and everyone is invited to mingle and network with other attendees. Cash bar will be available.

9:00 p.m. – Midnight

OPENING NIGHT LAS VEGAS

Join us as event sponsor Chameleon Studios demonstrates why their venue is just the right spot to experience true Las Vegas treatment and nightlife. This unique invitation-only, private nightclub venue, from Cheryl Irwin of Irwin Productions and Chameleon Global, offers discriminating clientele uniquely designed, flexible space located away from the Strip in a secure and exclusive environment. Transportation will be provided to and from this event.

Monday, Feb. 25, 2007

7:45 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.

CS102 - The Art (and Crafts) of the Wedding Table [WS]

Speakers: Teresa Day and Kendall Collier, Magic Moments Inc.

Whether you cater buffet-style or seated dinners, simple or elaborate, the wedding table is always an important element of every wedding. Teresa, Kendall and their dedicated team produce over 400 weddings each year in their three on-premise venues and through trial and error have mastered the art (and crafts) of table design. Both practical and beautiful, these are table designs you and your staff can recreate on your own.

• You will learn: How to alter a basic table design to achieve a variety of looks
• Expand your concept of vertical buffets
• Dazzle brides with stunning cake table designs
  Sponsored by International Event Products and Perfect Wedding Guide.

CS103 - Global Food Trends Affecting the Catering Industry

Speaker: Dr. Victor A.L. Gielisse, CMC, CHE, Associate Vice President, The Culinary Institute of America

This session illustrates how to identify differences between trends and fads and advises how to take a disciplined business approach to evaluating each. It will overview the most current food trends on the market and discusses the opportunities and challenges they present for the catering foodservice segment. As a Certified Master Chef, Dr. Gielisse has a keen insight into what your clients are looking for now, and in the coming years.

• You will learn: What foods are hot with the public
• How other cultures create new menu choices
• Why trends come and go
• How trends create challenges for your culinary team

ES149 - Case Study/Group Discussion [UNLV]

Facilitators: Gael D. Hancock, APR, CHE, Adjunct Professor University of Nevada Las Vegas, and Consultant Robyn Hadden, CSEP, Events Manager, UNLV Foundation

As part of the UNLV CEU offering, participants working in small groups will develop and present solutions to problems posed in an event-oriented case study.

9:15 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

CS107 - Enhancing the Wedding Experience [WS]

Speakers: Holly Safford, President, The Catered Affair and Andrew Marconi, Director of Sales, The Catered Affair

There is no event more important or precious to a customer than their wedding. The Catered Affair team considers planning and executing a wedding – indoors or outdoors, quiet or grand – their specialty. Holly and Andrew will teach how to sell, design and execute upscale weddings with a special focus on how weddings are evolving into extravaganzas.

• You will learn: Tips to organize your sales, culinary and operations systems to achieve total success
• Menu and presentation ideas that create guest excitement and profit for the caterer
• Design concepts that add “WOW” to weddings
  Sponsored by International Event Products and Perfect Wedding Guide.

CS109 - Using the Principals and Elements of Design to Create Sensational Buffets

Speaker: Steve Enselein, VP of Catering & Convention Services, Hyatt Hotels

Whether you are an off-premise caterer, banquet hall, a hotel, or a non commercial caterer, the buffet table is an essential element in your daily operation. If you are tired of “scrunched” linens and 6’ tables, join Steve Enselein, VP of Catering and Convention Services for Hyatt Hotels to learn basic design techniques that will make your buffet table designs memorable.

• You will learn: Principals and elements of classic design
• Alternatives for chafers and 6’ tables
• New designs for theme buffets

ES150 - Designs for the Senses [UNLV]

Speaker: Gael Hancock, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV)

Explore the psychology of color and the impact that fragrances and sound have on mood and memories. Learn how to wrap guests in a cocoon of sensations as color, fragrances and sound weave together to create the atmospheres clients seek. From bubble wrap snaps to jasmine wafting through the air, keep your attendees’ senses jumping and ensure you’re creating multi-sensational memories of your event.

• Explore smell through hands-on fragrance tests
• Use color swatches to examine each hue’s effects
• Hear Hancock’s real-life anecdotes on the impact of sensational event design

ES151 - What a Corporate Planner Wants: Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Selling to the Corporate Planner

Speaker: Arlene Sheff, CMP, The Boeing Company

Join Arlene, the senior meeting and event planner of The Boeing Company and recipient of the 2007 Event Solutions Spotlight Award for Corporate Planner/Producer of the Year, as she gives you the inside scoop on selling to corporate planners. Learn how to get your foot in the door, turn-ons and turn-offs, strategies for building better working relationships with corporate planners, what pitfalls to avoid and the difference between a smile call and a frown call.

• Identify selling pitfalls and how to avoid them
• Learn what corporate planners value most in their supplier/planner relationships
• Identify strategies for building your corporate business

ES152 - This Little Piggy Really Needs to Market

Speaker: Meryl Snow, Feastivities Events, Philadelphia, PA
Have you ever wondered why your competitors are getting the events you never had a chance to bid on? Join Meryl to learn how to implement simple marketing programs to help you “get your share” of the business pie.
- You will learn: 6 foolproof ways to market your company
- 6 more FREE foolproof ways to market your company
- How “embracing your competitors” can result in more market share for you

ES153 - Creating the Ultimate in Branded Environments [CT]

Speakers: Armen Gharabegian, Ethos Design and Lounge22, and Rebecca Coons, Ethos Design and Lounge22

Today’s corporate marketplace demands the integration of environmental design and corporate branding. Corporate events are now a mix of messaging, marketing and discovery. Learn how to create the ultimate branded environment that supports your objectives and those of your clients.

• Learn key ways to brand any environment
• Understand how to incorporate color and texture into your environment in ways that will support your message
• Learn methods to help you interpret your company’s brand into a three-dimensional environment
• Discover how to find the right entertainment to support your branded environment

ES154 - The Pillars of Event Greening, Part I: Saving the Planet One Event at a Time (Overview) [CT/AT, GS]

Speakers: Georgia Malki, President, Seven-Star, Inc. and Joseph Malki, President, Green Event Management Systems

In this two-part series, you will explore the unique challenges and opportunities that ecological and social responsibility pose for the special events industry. Each of us has a vested interest in creating an event that is financially successful. In this seminar, you will drill deep into how you can contribute to the health of the planet through your work and create a truly “green event” using the four pillars of successful event greening.

• During this series you will: Explore how to overcome acquisition issues necessary for a successful green event
• Learn how to contribute to sustainable solutions through your operations, productions, and product and supply choices
• Hear real success stories and strategies that you can apply to an Earth-friendly event
  The Event Greening series includes an overview and four pillars of event greening. Those concepts will be presented in three sessions running from 9:15 a.m. through 2:00 p.m. on Monday with a 45 minute break for lunch.

10:45 a.m. – Noon

CS111 - Distinctive and Fun Food Stations

Speaker: Lynn Buono, Chef/Owner, Feast Your Eyes

We’ve asked Lynn, who is both a chef and an owner, to create some new action stations that incorporate simple design, unique food presentation and will help sell events and bring excitement to your guests. Lynn will explain how each station works from both the caterer’s and guest’s perspective.

• You will learn: Ways to get guests actively involved in each station
• Tips on making stations caterer friendly
• New menu ideas that will build your image
  Sponsored by Edward Don and Front of the House

ES155 - Impact your Bottom Line Utilizing Students and Interns [UNLV]

Speaker: Robyn Hadden, CSEP, Events Manager, University of Nevada Las Vegas

Find new techniques to use in your business that will save you money while simultaneously giving back to the community. Help your local college or university — and impact your bottom line by working with student interns.

• Learn what guidance and time commitment is required to really get the most from interns
• Get tips on developing a program with mutual benefits — for your company and for a future event professional
• Examine the ways interns can contribute to a team — they can do more than make coffee

ES156 - Master Planner Series 1

In response to requests from some “VEP’s” Very Experienced Planners, (10 or more years in the business), three classes in the Master Planner Series invite planners to take part in this peer-to-peer learning environment among this elite group. Each session will have a dedicated topic (for example Technology, Entertainment, Décor) and a presentation from a thought leader in that arena. In a round table format, planners will engage in discussion for utilizing the ideas for the next level of event production.

ES157 - El Gran Evento: Event Opportunities in Latin America [CT]

Speaker: Eli Gorin, CMP, gMeetings

Eli Gorin, CMP, will demonstrate the options and opportunities available in Latin America, from Mexico to Argentina, to experienced event planners interested in stepping across the U.S. border to produce events. Dissect the geographical, cultural and other key distinctions to make when working between the U.S. and Latin America.

• Learn vital terms and concepts that are part of business processes in the region
• Confront myths and perceptions people have toward Latin America — and how to integrate those into your understanding of event expectations
• Discuss the available resources in the region, and find out what benefits you can look forward to when producing events in the region

ES158 - Sold! Get Rich by Selling your Event Business

Speaker: Franklyn Dickson, CMP, Ray Bloch Productions
After more than a decade as a professor of marketing, Dickson became chairman of Ray Bloch Productions, a full-service corporate communications production company. His seminar at the 2008 show is a case study of the sale of that company.

• Learn how to sell your company for a maximum return
• Discuss when is the time to sell
• Locate potential buyers and set personal objectives and company benchmarks
• Find out how to prepare yourself and your company for an eventual sale

ES160 - The Pillars of Event Greening: Finding Sustainable Solutions (Pillars 1 & 2) [CT/AT, GS]

Speakers: Georgia Malki, President Seven-Star, Inc. and Joseph Malki, President, Green Event Management Systems
Pillars 1 and 2 of the Event Greening sessions will explore how to overcome and contribute to sustainable solutions through eco-product conversion (earth friendly foods, beverages, supplies, products and services) and landfill diversion (resource recovery and conservation). You’ll learn how to make the most ecological responsible choices in your operations, productions, and product and supply choices, to create a truly “green event” while positively affecting your bottom line. You will leave the session with a comprehensive understanding of this industry’s effect on the following items.

• National health
• Ecosystem deterioration
• Landfill reduction and national resource conservation
• Consumer choices and the green economy

The Event Greening series includes an overview and four pillars of event greening. Those concepts will be presented in three sessions running from 9:15 a.m. through 2:00 p.m. on Monday with a 45 minute break for lunch.

Noon - 12:45 p.m. Lunch

12:45 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

ICA119 - High-Impact Employee Development

Speaker: Walter Sasiadek, Owner, Business Development Strategies

You’ve probably heard that employees are your most important asset. Yet an HR.com survey says 40% of employees felt unappreciated and 25% were never told any job expectations. This high-energy workshop focuses in on building a “Dream Team.” The program includes ways of creating an inspired workplace where achievement is part of the culture. Learn how to develop quality work habits for your team and pick up important ideas on managing on-the-job conflicts. This session provides a step-by-step method of developing your team from entry level to seasoned employee.

• You will learn: The 4 types of employees and how to manage them
• The most crucial element in employee development
• What employees really want from a job
• The “Am I a good boss?” test

ES161 - Festival & Event Management [UNLV]

Speaker: Nancy D. Matheny, MA, CSEP, Instructor, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Bright lights, mazes of small tents, wandering minstrels or mobs of people — all of these elements make festival events unique. Walk through a festival and event from start to finish with expert Nancy D. Matheny of UNLV. This is a fast-paced, interactive session including lecture and a real-life simulation for class members to apply.

• Start with research, design, budget and security
• Examine feasibility studies and perform SWOT analyses
• Learn how to keep your festival going by utilizing volunteers and creating off-premise operations strategies
• Explore the evaluation techniques that are unique to these events

ES163 - Risky Business – Site Inspection from a Risk Management Perspective [CT/AT]

Speaker: Julia Rutherford Silvers, CSEP, Speaking of Events

Julia will teach you what you need to know to complete a risk assessment as part of your site inspection. Planners often consider event sites from an availability, affordability and spatial perspective, but forget about the safety and legal concerns involved in risk assessment. Any potential event site must be viewed from a risk management perspective in order to assess its capabilities, and this session will give you the tools you need.

• Determine appropriate site selection criteria for evaluating potential event sites
• Discover an event site’s hazards and vulnerabilities in relation to the event’s audience and activities
• Go home with a 106-point risk management site inspection checklist

ES164 - The Power of the You: How to Use Networking to Realize Professional and Personal Benefits [AT]

Speaker: Laura Schwartz, White House Strategies

Laura Schwartz, former special assistant to President Clinton and the White House director of events for the Clinton administration, will help all attending the conference to make the most out of their time. The fine line between business and pleasure has long been erased. As social as any event may appear, it is business and it is up to the guest to realize an event’s profitability in his/her own professional and personal life.

• Find out key factors to make any event, no matter how casual, an opportunity
• Learn the right and wrong ways and times to market yourself
• Put what you learn to work right away at the Conference!

ES166 - The Pillars of Event Greening, Pillars 3 & 4: Finding Sustainable Solutions [CT/AT, GS]

Panelist Speakers: David Johnston, President, What’s Working, and Gil Friend, Founder, President and CEO of Natural Logic
Pillars 3 and 4 of the Event Greening session cover energy and water reduction and responsible choices for neutralizing your “carbon footprint.” This session will seek to demystify the concept of carbon-neutralization and will equip you to better understand how to make more environmentally responsible choices to reduce the ecological impact of your events. You will leave the session with a comprehensive understanding of this industry’s effect on the following issues.

• National health
• Ecosystem deterioration
• Landfill reduction and national resource conservation
• Carbon emissions (greenhouse gases)
• Community dynamics and local sustainable agriculture

The Event Greening series includes an overview and four pillars of event greening. Those concepts will be presented in three sessions running from 9:15 a.m. through 2:00 p.m. on Monday with a 45 minute break for lunch.

2:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

ES169 - IACEP Booking Entertainment Management [CT]

Panel: Jeff Enloe, President, Enloe Productions; Mark Felix, Director of Entertainment Services, Drury Design Dynamics; Lee McDonald , President, Key Artist Group; Dick Smith, President, communivisions llc; and Howard Stovall, Managing Partner, Resource Management Group

A panel of entertainment experts, assembled from the ranks of the International Association of Corporate Entertainment Producers, will share insights and best practices in a fast-paced interactive discussion with the audience. The panel will focus on how entertainment of all sorts can be leveraged to provide value at meetings and events. They’ll teach you how to take your creative and innovative ideas and execute them in an entertainment and talent context.

• Demystify the booking and producing of talent programs
• Further your entertainment contract knowledge and develop new expertise
• Find out from the pros what to avoid in the research or proposal stage, during negotiation or contract development, and the execution portion of an assignment
• Gather technical knowledge and expertise, including the seven P’s of production

ES170 - Drawing the Line: Anyway, Whose Wedding is it? [WS]

Speakers: Wialillian Howard, Wialillian & Company: Events, Training & Consulting Specialists and Nancy Tucker, Weddings Beautiful Worldwide

On any given day in the planning process, the lines may become blurred — who owns this wedding? Is it the bride, her mother, the impending mother-in-law or the wedding planner? Drawing clear lines of understanding in the sand is imperative for the success of these all-important relationships.

• Explore traps and failures imminent in unclear client relationships
• Find out how to establish clear roles and ensure players stay within the parameters of their given role — leave nothing to chance with so many emotions at stake
• Learn how to use “Let’s talk about it” as a standard to keep clients happy and get your job done.

ES168 - Show your True Colors: Conflict Resolution for a More Effective Event Team [AT]

Speaker: Letitia Fox, True Colors

This hysterical, live show is about you! Cast yourself as one of the four main characters in the show and learn how to resolve conflicts among your event team and partners. Who hasn’t wondered why it’s so hard just to find a solution? Individual speaking tones, listening styles and argument techniques are all part of people’s own personalities. Learn more about yourself and others in this interactive, fun environment that gets everyone participating.

• Act out short vignettes in a role-playing, teaching experience
• Walk away with better self-awareness and conflict management techniques
• Laugh until your sides hurt at the humor in our everyday experiences as members of the events industry

ES172 - Menu with a Mission: Healthy Food for People and the Planet [CT/AT, GS]

Panel: Ari Derfel, Co-founder, Back-to-Earth Organic Catering; Katrina Frey, Director of Sales for Frey Vineyards Ltd; Sheila Bowman, Monterey Bay Aquarium; and Jim Smith, Home Grown Nevada/4-S Land and Cattle Company

A menu with a mission can make a huge impact on the environment and your attendees’ health. At this session, you’ll hear from or about professionals like organic vegan and vegetarian chefs, organic wine vintners, food managers and sustainable agricultural specialists. By designing menus in consideration of the fragile ocean eco-system, global climate change, and air and water quality, event planners, chefs and catering professionals can influence a more sustainable marketplace — healthy for people and the planet.

• During this session you will: Review the elements of a successful environmentally friendly menu
• Discuss health needs and trends with other catering and event professionals
• Learn to create events that help the environment while turning a health focus into a unique selling point to obtain new business

3:45 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.

GRAND OPENING SESSION with featured speaker Colin Cowie

Welcome to the 2008 Conference — a celebration of our exciting industry! Kicking it off is event guru and lifestyle expert, Colin Cowie, who will offer his take on the state of the event industry, as well as demonstrate new event concepts, including great food and beverage ideas.

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

WELCOME RECEPTION AND THE KITCHEN CONTENDERS CATERSOURCE CHEF’S CHALLENGE

Start your evening here among great talent and sample some tasty appetizers, and bring your camera. Capture and bring home inspiring food ideas and display designs from this Welcome Reception.

It’s free for all attendees and is a great place for networking with other event professionals, and catching up with friends. Some of the best chefs from across the country will compete in catersource’s remarkable culinary challenge as teams prepare innovative cuisine using mystery ingredients selected for their team.

Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2007

7:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.

ICA202 - Putting Your “Signature” on Events

Speaker: Lon Lane, Lon Lane’s Inspired Occasions

Market your company at every event you do by developing a “signature” look. Brand your catering by consistently making a big deal of the little details. Lon’s idea-packed class will insure that the guests attending the party will know that your company catered the festivities.

• You will learn: New ways to present stations, buffet tables and bars
• How to market your company at the event with style and class
• Simple ideas that will make your company the talk of the town

8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

ES256 - Getting Started With Vivien

Speaker: Vivien virtual event designer team
*This is a sponsored class. To attend, please go here to register now!

Learn how to use Vivien–Virtual Event Designer to orchestrate your special events – from concept to delivery. Join the increasing number of your colleagues who embrace Vivien as their software-of-choice. Vivien is a powerful, intuitive and easy-to-use event design software for event and meeting professionals alike. In a few clicks you can create accurate 2D floorplans and colorful, photorealistic, 3D images that will WOW your clients. Take Vivien for a spin and see for yourself what all the buzz is about!

• Create 2D room layouts in just a few clicks
• Generate design proposals that are quick, cost effective, accurate.
• Solve event logistics, create resource reports, and track budget and expenses.
• Communicate easily with event stakeholders to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

CS207 - Ways to Reward and Pay Staff

Panel: Carl Sacks, Director of Consulting, catersource, Lisa Richards, Picnic People, Carl Jones, Carl Jones Culinary Concepts, Carlyn Berghoff, Artistic Catering By Carlyn Berghoff, Russell Morin, Fine Catering By Russell Morin

Our panel will share real-world systems and concepts on how to pay and reward all types of full-time staff. You will learn profit sharing programs that create win-win compensation results for you and your culinary, sales, operations, office and other support staff. This is a “how to” not a “what to pay” session.

• You will learn: A variety of methods to pay staff based on talent and results
• Compensation plans that involve more than just money
• Methods to monitor and track you payment plans
• The ratios between payroll and sales

ES252 - Get the Attention You Deserve: Case Studies From the Road

Speaker: Shari Lynn Rothstein, SLK Creative

Shari Lynn Rothstein of SLK Creative will take you on a walking tour of the many event industry companies that public relations has helped. Learn the secrets and the value of how PR can build a brand, get your company’s name recognized or to bring the necessary attention to your event. What it all boils down to is, publicity + promotion = success. Learn how to make it happen for your organization and your next event.

• Get media attention when you need it most
• Learn marketing options and the value of editorial coverage
• Develop your business through positive recognition of events and clients
• Reach the target market in vehicles they read

ES253 - The Lawyer is In, part 1: From ADA to SOX [CT/AT]

Speaker: Samuel J. Erkonen, Howe & Hutton Ltd.

A strong event business, like any great business, relies on laws and contracts to keep things fair and ensure everyone gets paid. In this essential overview session, you’ll find out about contracts, risk management, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Sarbanes-Oxley and intellectual property. Erkonen will engage attendees in an interactive discussion on any issues related to this topic and individual conflicts or businesses.

• Better understand contracts and be more comfortable negotiating them
• Learn important risk management tools
• Understand intellectual property
• Understand the effect of the ADA and SOX on events

ES254 - Super-Size It, Please: Upselling your Wedding Business [WS]

Speakers: Ira Mitchell-Steiman, All Over Miami and Noel Brown, Medallion Occasion Boutique

Real profit in the business world comes from the event professional who is able to upsize his or her services or products. What does upselling look like in the wedding industry? It is an art, and for many it is an acquired talent. In this session, learn the tools of upselling to enhance your bottom line. The session concludes with an “idea party” that leaves participants with a host of ideas for upselling their services. It can mean the difference between a pay day and a real pay day.

• Learn and practice the attitudes business owners must convey to successfully expand their business
• Find out how different selling techniques work for different segments of the industry
• Walk away with more confidence in the way you market your services

ES256 - Design Evolution: From Decoration to Experience

Speaker: Armen Gharabegian, Ethos Design and Lounge22
One of America’s top award-winning designers will share his approach to creating highly progressive design for the corporate and other event markets. With multiple design degrees, Armen Gharabegian, founder and CEO of Ethos Design and Lounge22, will teach you how to look at design as a force for experience, rather than decoration — moving away from the notion of décor and moving into the age of design.

• Learn ways to increase your creativity and open yourself to innovative design
• Experience design from the designer’s perspective and understand some of the tools they use to interpret design
• Discover new materials and technologies that are available for event design

4:45 - 6:15 p.m.

NACE216 - Global Weddings [WS]

Speaker: Melissa Paul, Evantine Design and Daniel Briones, CPCE, Four Seasons Hotel
Learn the basic cultural traditions and requirements for producing ethnic weddings. Melissa Paul, Wedding Stylist & Planner and Daniel Briones, CPCE, Director of Catering will guide you step by step through the planning and execution of ethnic weddings. Highlights will include the traditions of international wedding celebrations.

• You will learn: Menu ideas for ethnic weddings
• Protocol for ethnic wedding ceremonies and receptions
• How to market your company in the ethnic community

ES258 - Master Planner Series 2

In response to requests from some “VEP’s” Very Experienced Planners, (10 or more years in the business), three classes in the Master Planner Series invite planners to take part in this peer-to-peer learning environment among this elite group. Each session will have a dedicated topic (for example Technology, Entertainment, Décor) and a presentation from a thought leader in that arena. In a round table format, planners will engage in discussion for utilizing the ideas for the next level of event production.

ES259 - The Lawyer is In, Part 2: Intellectual Property [CT/AT]

Speaker: Samuel J. Erkonen, Howe & Hutton Ltd.

Learn how to identify and protect your intellectual property. What law applies? Who owns what? How do we protect what we own? The session will cover intellectual property basics and will instruct attendees on identifying and safeguarding protectable intellectual property.

• Common myths and best practices will be explored in this interactive session that will help you better understand this valuable part of your business.

ES257 - Dazzling Design that Creates Impact

Speaker: Fe Domenech, The Event Firm

Join Fe Domenech as she shares her passion for design that has made her a visionary and sought after event designer. Demonstrating design through examples, case studies and hands-on visuals, her session will expand your creativity for personal and unique spaces. Not just beautiful designs, but designs that sell ideas and experiences for your business and ultimately the guests. Investigate how various budgets parameters translate to design options, as well as how using what is available on hand and on location can assist you to achieve a high style look.

• Case studies and visuals and actual in room décor that demonstrates a message, including the passion of design and the creative visual of Passionatta at the 2007 Event Solutions Idea Factory in Miami
• Buzz on a budget – you want what for how much? It can not always be done, but there always is an alternative
• Design knowledge an important business tool for your events and your business

ES261 - ISO 14001, A Higher Standard: What Environmental Standards Certification Means for You [CT/AT, GS]

Speaker: Mark Jordan, Environmental Management Systems Expert and Associate on the Booz Allen Hamilton Environment Team

The continued wave of green business innovation and investment opportunity is transforming the way the events industry does business. Consumers’ and businesses’ demand for environmentally sustainable and socially responsible products and services will continue to climb steadily. The ISO 14001 environmental management standards exist to help organizations minimize how their operations negatively affect the environment and comply with applicable laws, regulations and other environmentally oriented requirements. This program is designed to share how to embrace ISO 14001 through comprehensive implementation. During this session you will learn the following concepts.

• Find out how to evaluate your company’s practices and positively effect change, and ensure compliance with environmental laws and regulations
• Learn to implement, maintain and improve an environmental management system
• Get an overview of how to seek certification of your environmental management system by an external third-party organization

ES262 - Audio, Video, Lighting and Scenic Design — The Pathway to a Smooth and On-Budget Event [CT/AT]

Speakers: Warren K. Kong and Jonathan Adcock, Chameleon Designs LLC

When you better understand audio, video, lighting and special effects elements, you’ll not only be able to better stay within budget, but you’ll also have a better event. Learn how to get the most out of your investment in these event elements by working more effectively with technical design companies.

• Understand proper technical design so that you have a better understanding for budget forecasting
• Find out why it’s vital to bring the audio, visual and lighting design firm in as an initial partner in the planning process
• See why and how accurate CAD drawings and room diagrams truly lead to a better event

8:00 p.m. – Midnight

THE FABULOUS SHOWCASE EVENT, “TEMPTATION”

produced by catersource and Event Solutions

The Pavilions at World Market Center hold the distinction of having the world’s largest tent space. More than 143,000 square feet of blank canvas will be transformed into a stunning experience by our talented team of producers and caterers from all over the country. Directed by the talented Kathy Davis and produced by Event Solutions and catersource, it is the signature Idea Factory event, Vegas style. Showcase areas and producers, caterers include:
- Wicked Good — Five Star Productions and Good Gracious!
- Luxuria — LT Eventions
- Chocolate Decadence — Meetinghouse Companies Inc. and Good Gracious!,
- The Temptation of Elegant Opulence in Sin — Dzign Events and TK&A Catering
- The Gardens of Eden — The Stellar Experience and Festivities
- County Fair Picnic — Lavish & Picnic People
- The Good Life — Lavish
- Tempted to Perform — Encore Creations

This event is optional; tickets can be purchased at the time of registration for $149.

Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2007

7:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.

NACE303 - Transforming Your Event to Create a Masterpiece

Speaker: Brian Kappra, Evantine Design, Inc.

Brian Kappra is President and Creative Director for Evantine Design in Philadelphia, an award-winning event production and design firm that provides all elements for entertaining. Kappra believes that each element must fit equitably and fabulously into an event’s theme, which helps create its special brand.

• At this session, you will learn: Simple tips that will help you turn your events into their own special masterpieces
• How to introduce design elements to all types of events
• How to balance your design elements to create your special brand

ICA308 - The Roadmap to Success: Mission, Vision and Goals

Speakers: Denise Slavitt, Checkers Catering, and Gary Hochman, The HR Matrix

Don’t lose your way while driving your company towards success and prosperity! Learn how to use mission, vision and goals to align management and staff into a focused organization committed to keeping the company on the proper path of success.

• You will learn: How to write a mission statement
• Systems for keeping your eye on the present AND the future
• Ways to make sure that your company stays “fresh” in the minds of client

9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

CS306 - Santé Magazine’s Liquid Assets

Speaker: Mark Vaughn, Publisher, Sante Magazine

Mark Vaughn, will host a panel of Industry experts sharing with caterers what’s in, what’s out, and what’s up with spirits, wine, beer, and coffee. This session will help caterers develop or enhance a beverage profit center that will be embraced by their customers.

• You will learn: The industry’s predictions for the next “hot” beverage trends
• How to better market and sell beverages into your events

• Ways to train staff to prepare and present beverages with “pizzaz”

• The elements of correct beverage pricing

ES350 - Exhibit like an Expert: Selling More, Looking Great and Making Money at Trade Shows and Events

Speaker: Susan Ratliff, Exhibit Experts

Susan Ratliff, an expert exhibitor, will let you in on the five most important elements to master to sell more, look great and make money at expositions and trade shows. Find out how to expose your company or product to new qualified leads and markets and increase the return on your investment. Anyone who has tried to positively impact their bottom line through events can benefit from Ratliff’s interactive and example-filled presentation.

• Hit major topics such as goal setting, display design, promotions, sales strategies and effective follow-up
• Receive step-by-step instructions, creative ideas and valuable techniques that can be immediately implemented
• Find out how to turn exhibiting opportunities into profit centers for their businesses
• Experience a presentation that includes actual client exhibits and graphics, plus interactive worksheets

ES351 - Master Planner Series 3

In response to requests from some “VEP’s” Very Experienced Planners, (10 or more years in the business), three classes in the Master Planner Series invite planners to take part in this peer-to-peer learning environment among this elite group. Each session will have a dedicated topic (for example Technology, Entertainment, Décor) and a presentation from a thought leader in that arena. In a round table format, planners will engage in discussion for utilizing the ideas for the next level of event production.

ES352 - Getting a Big Piece of the Corporate Birthday Cake [CT/AT]

Speakers: Diana Graling, PCL, and Michelle Gagnon, PCL

A growing number of organizations are celebrating high-profile, big-budget anniversaries for team-building and marketing purposes. In this presentation, two seasoned corporate communications specialists from a U.S. Fortune 100 and Canadian Top 50 Employer company will outline their team’s award-winning 100th anniversary program, sharing best practices and lessons learned.

• Focus on the benefits of partnering with internal clients (i.e., other departments, marketing staff) to stay on message
• Learn to bring in excellent external event vendors to execute a consistently branded event
• Learn what it takes to accomplish a multi-faceted international communications campaign

ES353 - The Consummate Professional: Improving your Business Relationships for Greater Business Success [WS]

Speakers: Wialillian Howard, Wialillian & Company: Events, Training & Consulting Specialists, and Noel Brown, Medallion Occasion Boutique

If a hidden camera chronicled you as you interact in your business life, would you be pleased with what you saw? Most people at some time have wondered if they are running event companies as a consummate professional — or if they’re blurring the line with colleagues between professional and personal. More importantly, how do you know the difference? After all, this is where the rubber meets the road in your business success.

• Learn to examine and improve your current practices and professional attitude
• Find out why payment processes can get ignored by clients
• Improve your relationships and make your career less emotionally stressful and more rewarding

ES354 - Design Trends Show & Tell

Speaker: Diane Butner, Director of Event Design, MGM MIRAGE Events

Event trends span disciplines like art, architecture, fashion and interiors. Diane Butner, MGM MIRAGE Events’ director of event design, will teach you how to brainstorm ideas and translate trends into event design. In a lively show and tell format, Butner will demonstrate how to draw from these diverse disciplines to keep your event design on the cutting edge.

• Discover how to key in to important developments and trends from the design world
• Learn new techniques for the “art” of brainstorming trends and turning them into great event design
• Find out how to one up a great idea and make it your own

3:45 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.

SPECIAL AFTERNOON SESSION: CS311 - Exposing Yourself with The Hearty Boys

Speakers: Dan Smith and Steve McDonagh, Owners, Hearty Boys Catering

Featured speakers, The Hearty Boys, present their session, “Exposing Yourself,” and share their fascinating path to fame in national media. The “Next Food Network Stars” of 2005 will explain how to become a sought-after regional expert in your field, gain media acclaim and grow your business with great public relations and publicity strategies for your events and companies.

Make the most of media exposure opportunities by attending this session with The Hearty Boys. Dan and Steve will demonstrate the key points to creating impactful cooking demos in an informative, irreverent, and above all, fun manner. This session will include mastering the difficult 3 minute “TV spot” demo and points for executing a successful 25 minute live demo. As Dan and Steve perform live demos for you, they share their expertise.

• The importance of menu/recipe design
• Keeping within a time frame and knowing your talking points
• Working with a camera and television anchor
• Rehearsing and rehearsing

ES357 - A Formula for E-mail Success: Unveiling 34 Indispensable Tips that Get a Reply [CT/AT]

Speaker: Karen E. Purves, M.A., innovative impact

Do you struggle to get the information you request from others? Do you have a 90% or better response rate to your e-mail inquiries? Do you dread “cold” calls? This program will show you how to send effective e-mails that get clients and colleagues to read your messages, reply to your requests and make your life easier! This information is relevant for anyone who wants to be successful in their use of e-mail for business or personal communication. Particularly effective for people in sales, this program will give you the edge to increase sales without picking up the phone to make “cold” calls.

• Understand you have a significant effect on whether or not someone will read and reply to your e-mail with a positive attitude
• Identify 33 proven e-mail tools to get people to read and reply to e-mails and reduce confusion or defensiveness
• Participate in an engaging session, receive useful tips and leave with immediately usable information

ES356 - Entertainment Redefined

Speaker: Blair Farrington, Farrington Productions

Now more than ever, event producers and suppliers need to offer creative, cost-effective options for clients who need the best entertainment bang for the buck, but can’t afford the “big ticket” items. Join Farrington, an entertainment pro, to learn about up-and-coming talent; emerging trends; using living décor as entertainment; creative, cost-effective alternatives to live bands; and more.

• Walk away with a list of a dozen new emerging talent options that you can book today
• Discover how to work with your decorator and entertainment supplier to deliver living décor and environmental entertainment
• Find out how to turn an ordinary DJ into a trendy, cost-effective entertainment option in your own market

5:30 – 6:45 p.m.

CLOSING SESSION with keynote speaker Robyn Waters

Trend expert Robyn Waters provides a thought-provoking environmental scan of the macro marketplace that takes the listener deep into the hearts and minds of the consumer. Her visual presentations challenge the audience to look at a trend ‘from the inside out’ by focusing their attention on what’s important instead of just what’s next. Energies are revitalized, perspectives reframed, and possibilities re-envisioned. Robyn will help you make the most of the inconsistencies of trends– Old Navy worn with Gucci for example – and embrace those paradoxes as a source of fresh business ideas.

Thursday, Feb. 28, 2008

8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

CS403 - The Knot Market Intelligence presents:10 Ways Your Website Is Killing Your Business

Speaker: Alan Berg, The Knot Market Intelligence

Just having a website isn’t good enough these days. Many businesses’ websites are actually costing them business, and they don’t even know it. They may be getting prospects to visit their site, but they’re not converting them into sales. Join Alan Berg, Vice President of Local Sales Operations and Director of The Knot Market Intelligence.

• You will learn: To identify ways your website is costing you sales
• How you can update your site to make you more money
• Website “fixes” that cost little or no money

9:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

CS404 - Proposal Packaging Panache

Speaker: Shelley Pedersen, CPCE, Beyond Cuisine, Inc

We all need to email proposals and menus each day, but when that special booking, or that amazing client comes along, you need a trick or two to set you apart in your marketplace. The ideas in this session are great when you need to create the ‘wow’ from the very start, with the personal touch and creativity like no one else.

• You will learn: New printing and binding techniques for important proposals
• Tips on ways to send your written proposals to prospects in unique packaging
• How to use special words and phrases in your proposal to win sales

CS405 - Maintaining “Quality of Life” in Catering

Speakers: Michael Roman, President, catersource

Catering is a tough business with excessive hours that can put a strain on your personal and family life. Catering should be a profession, not a way of life. Mike has lived the good and not- so- good caterer’s life, working 90+ hours a week, and the experiences he shares here will help you create the proper balance between work and play.

• In this session, Mike will offer you: A checklist to determine where you are on the “burn- out” scale
• Simple actions that will keep you and your staff from drowning in your work
• Ways to find time for family, friends and yourself even during the busiest seasons

11:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

CS408 - Becoming Green

Speakers: Pauline Parry, Owner, Good Gracious! Events, Los Angeles, CA and Dan Smith, Good Gracious! Events

While preparing to cater the 2008 Fabulous Showcase Event, Pauline Parry and the Good Gracious! Team decided to “GO GREEN.” This educational seminar will deconstruct the “green” aspects of Tuesday’s event, explore the costs and benefits of pursuing an earth-friendly catered event, showcase products and services which assisted them in their task, and feature discussion relating to their experience and how to take the concept home to your local market.

• You will learn: Why corporations are seeking caterers who offer earth-friendly options
• How to market the fact that your company offers green options
• Ways to help others understand the importance of earth-friendly concepts