Speakers/Topics:

Upon arriving you'll see beautifully decorated tables by our own ABC Members!  If you are attending and would like to showcase your work - or get something critiqued please let me know - after registering to attend.

Table Top's Designed By:

Events by Deb

Tonya's topic description coming soon!

How to be a professional in a wold full of amateurs by Emily McCollin

The wedding industry is filled with people who have turned a hobby into a business.  This often results in shoddy business practices and shabby client relations.  In this session, you will learn the basics of how to present yourself as the professional you are, while maintaining approachability in a very relationship-oriented business.

12 Ways to Jumpstart 2012 by Catherine Katz

Would you like 2012 to be exactly like 2011? If so, this session is not for you. If you do want 2012 to be different, then how are you going to get to where you want to be? What are 12 things you can do today to make your upcoming year the absolute best it can be? In this hands-on session, you will be given an outline to jumpstart the New Year. You’ll work not only on steps you may take to make your business more successful, but also to bring more balance to your personal life. We’ll share successes, challenges, and questions from each other, too. Leave with energy, focus, and 2012 goals!

Speaker Bios:

Tonya Shadoan - International Image and Marketing Consultant

Tonya Shadoan has built a powerful consulting practice for venues across the country to help position them as the hottest wedding destinations.  She created the practice after building the a reputation as one of the most sought after wedding and event designers in the country.  She has been helping various hotels and event facilties to see huge results in revenue followingng various hotels and event facilities see huge results in revenue following some simple recommendations. Tonya’s consulting practice utilizes various methods to increase their events revenue, including creating their menu of services, helping build or update websites, training staff, maximizing social media, and more. Tonya’s clients average a 25% increase in revenue after working with her.

Emily McCollin

Emily is the lead planner of Occasions by Emily, a full service planning and design company.  With fifteen years of experience, Emily is recognized for her organization and professionalism.  Her sense of style, an ability to listen, and a talented team make her company a top choice for brides. www.occasionsbyemily.com or www.occasionsbyemily.blogspot.com “Occasions by Emily” on facebook “OccasionsbyEm” on twitter.

Catherine Katz

Catherine Katz has been a part of the events industry for over 16 years.  She has worked in corporate, non-profit, and social events.  Most recently, she is the owner and principal of Cherished Celebrations, an event production and design company. Before opening her own event planning business, Catherine worked for the premier wedding planner in Denver, Colorado, gaining valuable experience in how to run a successful business.  Prior to that, Catherine earned an MBA with a Marketing Emphasis and also received a Project Management certificate from George Washington University. 

Room Block Created: You may call 336-379-8000 or 800-228-9290 and ask for a room under the "Association of Bridal Consultants Block".  Room rates are $99 per night for single or double.  Cut off date for room block discount is November 11, 2010.