DFW NACE offers a scholarship opportunity for members to attend the Annual Experience Conference. This year, the conference will be held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin from July 27 to July 29 at the Hilton Milwaukee Hotel!
The DFW NACE Chapter Scholarship Fund supports members in attending the NACE Experience Conference, fostering their growth in catering education and chapter leadership development. All members in good standing are eligible to apply. Selection is based on active participation in chapter events and committees, as well as a demonstrated passion for people in our industry. Scholarships will be awarded by a review committee comprising of the Chapter President, Past President, and a Chapter President’s Council member. Applicants will be evaluated based on their commitment and financial need.
Scholarship recipients will receive: A Conference Pass Plus to the 2025 NACE Experience Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin ($1,759 Value) A $250 stipend for airfare Half of your hotel stay — 3 nights at the Hilton Milwaukee during the conference (Sunday–Tuesday)
Scholarship recipients must: Attend all conference sessions and NACE functions in Milwaukee, Wisconsin Submit a written blog or social media reel(s) within 72 hours after the event
Congratulations to all the nominees and winners of our 41st Annual DFW NACE Gala! Laissez les bon temps rouler! A huge thank you to the board members who worked tirelessly to make this event happen. Organizing a gala of this magnitude is no small feat, and every detail was absolutely stunning!
Held on Fat Tuesday, March 4, at the beautiful Thompson Dallas Hotel, this year’s gala was a spectacular celebration of talent, creativity, and excellence in our industry. Guests were greeted in true Mardi Gras style with jesters, jugglers, and stilt walkers, all courtesy of Mystic Kathryn Event Experiences.
The evening kicked off with a breathtaking Just Bead It display, featuring vibrant Mardi Gras balloons and beads, designed by The Party Department. Attendees enjoyed delicious passed hors d’oeuvres, followed by a three-course meal and an open bar—offering both alcoholic and zero-proof options—all expertly provided by the Thompson Dallas team. The décor was a stunning tribute to Mardi Gras traditions, with dazzling centerpieces in gold, purple, and green, adorned with feathers and intricate details, designed by Gardenia Event Decor. Lyons Paperie added an extra touch of elegance with beautifully crafted menus and custom table reservation signs.
Entertainment was top-notch! Cocktail music and a lively second-line procession, leading guests into the ballroom, were performed by Monique Renee Entertainment. Harmland Visions kept the energy high as the DJ and Voice of God, while Encore Global set the stage with exceptional A/V and lighting production. No detail was overlooked—luxurious linens from BBJ La Tavola (those sequin cocktail tablecloths were a showstopper!), exquisite rentals and draping from Quest Events, and AFR Furniture Rental’s elegant lounge furniture pieces created the perfect atmosphere for mingling and celebration.
The fun didn’t end there! Guests were dazzled by the DFW 360 Booth during cocktail hour, featuring a one-of-a-kind magazine photo booth, while Misugo.Studio captured the night’s magic with live paintings of attendees.
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible photo and video sponsors—Alliance Entertainment Group and A Love Poet—for capturing every unforgettable moment of the evening. Your time, talent, and resources made this event truly exceptional, and we are deeply grateful for your support.
And did I mention EZ provided us with a TREE? A large tree, adorned with beads, colorful feathers, and even stuffed beignets, served as an eye-catching centerpiece for the room.
This year marked a historic moment for DFW NACE, as we inducted four exceptional members into the Hall of Fame for the first time ever! Congratulations to Sarabeth Quattlebaum, CPCE, CMWP, Beth Albright (who delivered a stunning Oscars-style speech), Crystal Walker, and Justin Lopez. Each of you has dedicated over 10 years of service to our chapter, and we are truly grateful for your commitment. Your passion has helped shape our community, and this recognition is well-deserved!
It was an incredible night of celebration, community, and unforgettable memories. The flow of the evening was flawless, honoring so many of our talented catering and event professionals in DFW. The room buzzed with magnetic energy, filled with cheers and laughter. It was a true testament to the passion and dedication of our extraordinary community.
Here is the complete list of winners:
Self-Nominated Awards
• 2024 Videography of the Year: Judy Philips, BEYOND
• 2024 Photography of the Year: Jennifer Crenshaw, Jennifer Crenshaw Photography
• 2024 AV Production of the Year: Fantasy Sound Event Services
• 2024 Event of the Year: Idea Fountain, Inc.
• 2024 Wedding of the Year: Shamica & Co. Event Planning and Design, LLC. & DJ Rose Red, Harmland Weddings
• 2024 Catering Event of the Year: Low Country Quisine, Wedding Event Design, and Nicole Smedley Event Designs
President’s Awards
• 2024 President’s Award: Shamica Sweat
• 2024 President’s Award: Lance Panton
Individual Awards
• 2024 Committee Member of the Year: Marchantia Smith
• 2024 Business Partner of the Year: The Party Department
• 2024 Rising Star of the Year: Sir J. Starks
• 2024 Member of the Year: Chantel Boudreaux
Hall of Fame
• 2024 Hall of Fame: Sarabeth Quattlebaum, CPCE, CMWP
• 2024 Hall of Fame: Beth Albright
• 2024 Hall of Fame: Crystal Walker
• 2024 Hall of Fame: Justin Lopez
Legends of NACE
• 2024 Legend of NACE: Paula Fenner, CPCE
• 2024 Legend of NACE: Kevin Brant, CPCE
Chapter Meeting Awards
• 2024 Meeting Entertainment of the Year: LeForce Entertainment | Lindsay Knight Piano | Yelibelly Chocolates
• 2024 Meeting Décor of the Year: AFR Furniture Rental | Arts District Mansion | BBJ La Tavola | Center Stage Floors | Diversified Media Production Group | Garden Gate Dallas | Gardenia Event Décor | JPC Invites | Lightware Labs | Lyons Paperie | Shag Carpet Prop Rentals | Shamica & Co. Event Planning and Design, LLC | The Party Department | Top Tier Event Rentals
• 2024 Meeting Culinary Presentation of the Year: Low Country Quisine | Boozy Bar Dallas
• 2024 Meeting Facility of the Year: Arts District Mansion
• 2024 Meeting Program of the Year: Meredith Commender, CSEP – “Strategies and Challenges for Adding Corporate Events to Your Portfolio”
• 2024 Meeting of the Year: Apricus Venue | BBJ La Tavola | Big D Party Rentals | Boozy Bar Dallas | BEYOND | Charlie Duhon Steel Drums | Diversified Media Production Group | Eduardo Lua / Bella Luna Venue and Events | Hannah Way Photography | JPC Invites | Low Country Quisine | Shamica & Co. Event Planning and Design, LLC
Due to recent weather conditions in Texas, Chris Harmon, Past President of DFW NACE, was unable to pick up the awards for the gala. We all had a good laugh and gave him a friendly roast. But true to his word, Chris personally hand-delivered every award to the recipients’ businesses and documented the journey on social media. Thanks, Chris—your dedication made this gala one to remember!
Next, it’s time to head to the farm! We hope you’ll join us at Timberview Farmstead for something a little different on Wednesday, April 2. Registration is now open!
Monday, February 10, 2025 By Lance Panton, Communications Committee
On February 5, 2025, the Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter of the National Association for Catering and Events (DFW NACE) gathered for an evening of education, networking, and industry insights at The Mason Dallas. The event, themed “Insightful Bites,” guided attendees through estate planning, strategic hiring, and intentional networking, providing valuable knowledge from expert speakers.
The evening began with networking and cocktails at 6:00 PM, setting the stage for meaningful conversations before guests embarked on their three-course educational experience. Each speaker delivered an essential “bite” of knowledge, beginning with Soluto Uba, Esq., founder of Uba Law Group. Soluto led the First Bite: Estate Planning, emphasizing that estate planning is a responsibility, not just an option. He explained how a revocable trust helps individuals avoid Texas’ default estate plan, ensuring assets are distributed based on personal wishes rather than state law. To encourage attendees to take action, Uba Law Group is offering $500 off a Peace of Mind Strategy Session exclusively for DFW NACE members.
The Second Bite: Strategic Hiring was led by Deborah Rose, a seasoned entrepreneur and business coach with more than 25 years of experience in legal, investigative, and mediation fields. Deborah shared strategies for making smart hiring decisions to build high-performing teams. She emphasized the importance of screening candidates effectively, aligning talent with company culture, and ensuring long-term success through strategic hiring practices.
The evening concluded with the Third Bite: Networking, presented by Paige Mejia, FPO, FEO. Drawing from her extensive background in the events industry, Paige offered actionable strategies for building strong, lasting connections. She encouraged attendees to dress the part, engage in open-ended conversations, take notes on new contacts, and follow up on LinkedIn or Instagram to foster meaningful professional relationships. She also shared a comprehensive list of DFW networking organizations, which can be accessed here.
A heartfelt thank-you goes out to the incredible sponsors who made the February DFW NACE meeting a success! TheMason Dallas provided an elegant and inviting venue, while Naborly Provisions Catering delighted guests with insightful bites, serving hors d’oeuvres followed by a beautifully crafted four-course spread. Top Tier Event Rentalsenhanced the atmosphere with beautiful tabletop décor, while Marchantia Smith Events added an elegant touch with stunning centerpieces. Inkredible Sounds provided audio/visual support and dinner music, ensuring a seamless experience throughout the evening. Jennifer Crenshaw Photography captured the night’s best moments, while also taking headshots of the 2025 DFW NACE Board. Guests enjoyed snapping memories at Say Cheeze Squad’sroaming and stationary photo booths, while Pinky’s Valet provided exceptional valet service.
Director of Fundraising Jessica King took the stage to announce the 2025 DFW NACE charity beneficiary, CowtownWarriors. Founded in 2013, Cowtown Warriors is a veteran-led nonprofit that provides direct assistance to wounded, disabled, and displaced veterans in North Texas. The organization is entirely volunteer-driven, offering support ranging from housing and essential needs to mental wellness and career transition assistance. Jessica shared a touching story about Patrick, a veteran who lost both of his legs while serving in Iraq, and how Cowtown Warriors helped build him a custom wheelchair-accessible motorcycle and shop, allowing him to rediscover his passion for riding. The first fundraising prelude event benefiting Cowtown Warriors is scheduled for March 27 at Times Ten Cellars, featuring a Painting with a Twist experience led by Lauren Twitchell, CPCE.
In addition to the evening’s programming, DFW NACE shared several important announcements, including the much-anticipated 41st Annual Awards Gala set for Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Thompson Dallas Hotel. Members had the opportunity to vote for Business Partner of the Year, Rising Star of the Year, and Member of the Year, with the winners to be revealed at the gala. Self-nominated awards, including Wedding of the Year, Event of the Year, Catered Event of the Year, Event Photography/Videography of the Year, and Audio-Visual Event of the Year, remain open for submissions until February 12. Tickets for the gala are on sale now and are expected to sell out quickly. Register Here.
The evening also welcomed new members into the DFW NACE community, including Christina MacMeeken of The MacMeekens Photography, Sabrina Renteria of The Perfect Plan DFW, Heather Zsido of Calabrese Southlake, and Andrea Bey of Prep Kitchen.
DFW NACE continues to foster valuable networking and educational opportunities for industry professionals, and the upcoming Annual Awards Gala promises to be one of the year’s most spectacular events. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, March 4, 2025, and secure your spot today. Register Here.
Who’s ready to celebrate all of their wins from 2024?! I cannot wait to see everyone in March at the Annual Awards Gala to celebrate YOU! But before we completely leave 2024 behind, we want to celebrate the hard work and events that we did so mark your calendars for TUESDAY, March 4th, Venue To Be Announced.
Below is information about our self-nominated awards. We would love for you to submit your incredible events in the categories listed below!
Here are the categories you’ll see for the self-nominated awards this year:
We’ve streamlined the nomination criteria to simplify the process! Here are the categories and submission form(s) for the 2024 self-nominated awards:
Separate categories for Wedding of the Year based on budget (below $50,000 and over $50,000) so that micro weddings aren’t competing with larger weddings – Wedding of the Year Submission Guidelines
Separate categories for Event Production of the Year based on budget (below $25,000 and over $25,000) for smaller and larger events – Event of the Year Submission Guidelines
Catered Event of the Year! The Catered Event of the Year award recognizes outstanding planning and execution for on-premise and off-premise events that include food and beverage – Catered Event of the Year Submission Guidelines
Event Photography of the Year! The Event Photography of the Year award recognizes outstanding photography and the photographer’s artistic talents. – Event Photography of the Year.
Event Videography of the Year! The Event Videography of the Year award recognizes outstanding videography and the videographer’s artistic talents. – Event Videography of the Year.
Our new 2024 category is AV production of the Year! This will recognize outstanding execution of audiovisual elements for catered events. – Event Audio/Visual Production of the Year.
**DEADLINE TO SUBMIT: WEDNESDAY, February 12th, 2025 – 5 PM! Don’t miss your chance to be recognized for your 2024 efforts!
DFW NACE Members can submit awards for free. Non-member submissions are $50 per award nomination. There will be ONE award given to the person who actually submits for the award. Additional trophies can be requested for a fee.
My company, Knife & Faulk provides boutique-style catering for weddings, private parties, social and corporate events as well as cooking workshops for individuals and groups led by Chef Marlene Faulkner. Specializing in Modern American cuisine, Knife and Faulk showcases the art of combining fresh ingredients with culinary excellence by creating customized menus that highlight any event. This attention to detail helps to create some of the most memorable experiences for clients.
What do you love most about the work you do?
I thoroughly enjoy creating food experiences and connecting with people. Entertaining is a lifestyle and being able to share my passion for food and entertaining is what I love most.
What Committee are you on for NACE and what do you do?
I am a part of the Communications Committee specifically with Social Media.
Which best describes you? Iphone/Mac, Iphone/PC, Android/Mac, Android/PC?
Android/Mac
When you’re not working, what are you doing?
I enjoy spending lots of time with my husband and daughters, volunteering in the community and at my local church, and entertaining friends and family. I also enjoy learning and reading.
Tell us one thing on your bucket list
To travel throughout Europe.
Is there a song you wish they would stop playing at events?
Not really. The songs that are played at events create pretty specific memories for others and help me to reflect on how much things have changed.
If you had one extra hour of free time a day, how would you use it?
It’s so important to disconnect sometimes and find ways to just be. I’d find a way to do just that.
My name is Shamica Sweat and I am the owner and lead planner at Shamica & Co. Event Planning and Design. We specialize in planning and designing curated wedding experiences.
What do you love most about the work you do?
What I love most about what I do is helping clients bring their wedding day visions to life while creating an event experience for the client and their guests.
What Committee are you on for NACE and what do you do?
I currently serve on both the Communication and Fundraising Committees.
Which best describes you? Iphone/Mac, Iphone/PC, Android/Mac, Android/PC?
I am an Apple girl all the way, iPhone and Mac.
When you’re not working, what are you doing?
When I am not working I am enjoying time with my husband and kiddos, hanging out, and exploring new things.
Tell us one thing on your bucket list.
One of the things on my bucket list is to go on a dune buggy tour in the deserts of Dubai.
Is there a song you wish they would stop playing at events?
I love all types of music and don’t really have a song I wish they would stop playing at weddings. A song I wish they would play at every wedding is Tennessee Whiskey. I love the beat and cadence of the song.
If you had one extra hour of free time a day, how would you use it?
If I had an extra hour in the day I would spend it shopping.
