Blog Archives

The Phoenix NACE Blog  
November 04, 2011
Pure Perfection at the Carefree Resort and Conference Center

The service was AMAZING from beginning to end at the Carefree Resort and Conference Center. The staff was not only welcoming but they were knowledgable and genuinely happy to be a part of the NACE event. Rochelle and her team took every detail into consideration from the fireplaces in front of the ballroom to each individual piece of cheese on the appetizer station. They served our soup in carved pumpkins, the filet just melted in your mouth, and finally the dessert... It wasn't just one dessert... It was three prestine miniature desserts displayed on a beautiful platter that said NACE. 

I have had the opportunity to visit the Carefree Resort and Conference Center twice in the last year and both experiences were exceptional.  They always take the time to make every event not only perfect but truly memorable. So, thank you for being such a great leader in the hospitality industry and I can't wait for my next visit. 

Here are some of the photos if you weren't able to make it.

http://phoenixnace.com/gallery.php?date=101811&dispdate=October%2018,%202011
 

Author: Admin
November 04, 2011
Let's Save the Date!!

Future Meetings

November 15, 2011

Annual Dine Around 

November 15, 2011
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM 

TBD



Location and details are coming soon! 
 

December 13, 2011

Annual Joint Alliance Holiday Mixer

December 13, 2011
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM 

TBD



Location and details are coming soon! 
 

Author: Admin
October 12, 2011
Our last meeting was so much fun!!!

Thank you to The Clayton on the Park, En Blum Catering, KOOL Party Rentals, Grimaldi's Pizzeria, Bonfire Grill, JJ Howell Popcorn, La Dolce Pesca, and the Venue of Scottsdale for making out Taste of NACE amazing. If you didn't make it you will have to check out the photos!!! Hilarious, these ladies can sure bust a move:-) 

http://phoenixnace.com/gallery.php?d=&p=2

Seriously, add a beer tasting on the 18th and this is going to be a FABULOUS month!!  

Author: Admin
October 12, 2011
It's a beer tasting!!! Really... Ummm no brainer, Sign me up!!

Meeting/Event Information

 Directions

October 18, 2011

Beer Pairing Dinner
Delectable cuisine paired with the finest ales
October 18, 2011
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Carefree Resort & Conference Center
37220 Mule Train Road
Carefree, AZ 85377
http://www.carefree-resort.com
 

It’s time to register for the Phoenix NACE Beer Pairing Dinner! This event is one you won't want to miss! Carefree Resort & Conference Center is our gracious host for this fun program that features the pairing of delectable cuisine with the finest ale.

Our member sponsors for this event include: Host Venue ~ Carefree Resort & Conference Center; Event Design ~ Meant2Be Events; and Linen ~ BBJ Linen.  Many thanks to our beer donor and educator ~ Crescent Crown Distributing.

Our fabulous menu for the evening will feature: First course ~ Southwestern Butternut Squash Soup, Seared Scallop, Chive Oil; Second course ~ Roasted Beef Tenderloin & Crisp Sockeye Salmon with Root Vegetables with Haricot Verts and Wild Mushroom Risotto; and Dessert ~ Harvest Dessert Trio.

The cost to attend is $35 for Members, $40 for Employees from a Member Company, First Time Attendees and Spouses or Significant Others of a Member, and $50 for Guests. A $10 per person late fee will be accessed on registrations processed after midnight on Friday, October 14th. Click on the Register Now button to sign up. No shows and cancellations within 72 hours of the meeting will be charged.

We hope to see you there!

Author: Admin
October 12, 2011
$100 Fall Membership Discount

Author: Admin
September 19, 2011
Taste of NACE - NO ENTRANCE FEE!!!

Meeting/Event Information

 Directions

October 04, 2011

Taste of NACE
Find out what NACE is all about at no charge to you!
October 04, 2011
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
The Clayton on the Park
7343 Scottsdale Mall
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
http://www.theclaytononthepark.com
 

Allow us to show you how amazing the Phoenix Chapter of NACE really is at The Clayton on the Park!  We invite you to network with our members while enjoying delicious libations courtesy of Pour Masters Bartending Service, delectable cuisine from a wide array of caterers, and fantastic entertainment.  This event is hosted by the chapter so there is no charge to attend.  Please register by clicking the Register Now button so we can give a count to our caterers.

We hope to see you there!

 

 

Author: Admin
August 22, 2011
NACE Family Fun Night at Arizona Grand Resort's Oasis Water Park

Summer is almost over and season is quickly approaching…let’s have some fun! 

The NACE Phoenix Chapter invites you and your family to enjoy a Family Fun Night at the Oasis Water Park. Bring the kids and significant other so we can get to know each other a little better. All of the water features will be available for the night! NACE reserved a picnic area in the park for an All-You-Can-Eat buffet featuring hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cobb, coleslaw, watermelon, and desserts.

Tickets are $30 per adult, $15 per child 3-12 years old, and children 2 and under are free.

We hope to see you there!

Author: Admin
August 12, 2011
AMAZING!!! Two thumbs up to The Capital Grille

The Capital Grille

 Capital Grill collage

 

The July Phoenix NACE Chapter meeting was a rare lunch-time meeting, at  The Capital Grill.  Our gathering area was a cozy side room off the main dining room.   We were greeted with butler passed hors d'oeuvres, beverages and a sampling of their signature cocktail.

For lunch we moved into an adjoining room.  A delicious lunch was served amid announcements and a fun game of  "Family Fueding" Phoenix NACE style.  Questions for the game were pulled from the CPCE Study guide - three of our current board members took the exam at conference in Reno. There were winners - and they went home with Starbucks gift cards!

See you soon at our next meeting:

Author: Admin
August 12, 2011
Volunteer Opportunities

Community Service

Volunteer With Phoenix NACE

 It’s that time of year again!  It’s time to take time from our busy schedules to give back to the community.  Currently, Phoenix NACE has two opportunities available.  Please email Kristina Celik atkristina@arizonaweddings.com to reserve your spot today.  Limited Space is Available.

Include the following information in your email:

Subject Line: NACE Volunteers

Volunteer Name(s):

Desired Volunteer Date (s):

Contact Email:

Contact Phone:

If you have any questions, please contact Kristina Celik at (480) 451-1059 office or (480) 205-2581 cell.


When:  Monday, September 19th

Where:  St Vincent De Paul, Phoenix Dining Room, (Jackson & 7thAvenue)

Time: 9:30am to 1pm

Task: 15 to serve meals and 10 to help with the Thank Tank

Age Requirement: 10 with wavier & parent present

Number of Volunteers Needed: 25

 

When: Monday, December 5th

Where: Salvation Army, Downtown Phoenix

Time: 9am to Noon

Task: Packing Food BoxesGroups who will form an assembly line to sort food and pack the boxes with a balance of food for a family or 4 for a week.

Age Requirement: Youth 14 years of age and older only

Number of Volunteers Needed: 30

 

You will receive all necessary information in RSVP confirmation email from Kristina.  Thank you in advance for donating your time to help those in need.

Author: Admin
August 12, 2011
Be sure to plan ahead so you don't miss out!

Friday September 9, 2011

Newsletter submission Deadline


Monday September 19, 2011

Volunteer Opportunity

See article on the next job posting

 

Tuesday September  20, 2011

Family Picnic

AZ Grand Oasis Water Park

 

 Friday October 7, 2011

Newsletter submission Deadline

 

Tuesday October 18, 2011

Beer Pairing Dinner

Carefree Conference Resort

 

Monday December 5, 2011

Volunteer Opportunity

See article in newsletter

Author: Admin
August 12, 2011
Annual Food & Wine Pairing

 Directions

August 16, 2011

Annual Food & Wine Pairing
A dining experience you won't want to miss!
August 16, 2011
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Phoenix Marriott Mesa
200 North Centennial Way
Mesa, AZ 85201
http://www.phoenixmarriottmesa.com
 

It’s time to register for the Phoenix NACE Annual Food & Wine Pairing! This event is a favorite of our members and one you won't want to miss! The Phoenix Marriott Mesa is our gracious host for this fun program that features the pairing of delectable cuisine with tasty wines.

Many thanks to our member sponsors: Host Venue ~ Phoenix Marriott Mesa and Decor - Encore Creative.

The cost to attend is $35 for Members, $40 for Employees from a Member Company, First Time Attendees and Spouses or Significant Others of a Member, and $50 for Guests. A $10 per person late fee will be accessed on registrations processed after midnight on Friday, August 12th. Click on the Register Now button to sign up. No shows and cancellations within 72 hours of the meeting will be charged.

We hope to see you there!

Author: Admin
July 12, 2011
Stay updated!!! Don't Miss the July Industry Events

INDUSTRY EVENT CALENDAR

JULY
13-15 … Governor's Conference on Tourism, DoubleTree Paradise Valley Resort. www.aztourismconference.com
19 ... NACE Family Feuding, Capital Grille 

July 19, 2011

NACE Family FeudingJust like your favorite game show but with questions on the event industry!July 19, 2011
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
The Capital Grille
16489 North Scottsdale Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85254

 

19 … HSMAI Community Outreach, Hacienda Healthcare, Time with Children. 3:30-5:30pm. http://hsmai-az.org
20 … AZBTA Networking Event, DoubleTree Guest Suites Phoenix, 5:00-7:00pm. www.azbta.org
21 … HSMAI Webinar “Ten Must-Dos for On-Line Reviews”, Hyatt Place Scottsdale Old Town, 8:00-9:30am.  http://hsmai-az.org
23-26 … MPI MeetDifferent, Orlando, Florida. www.mpiweb.org
28 … MPI Networking Event, West Phoenix Downtown, 5:00-7:00pm. www.azmpi.org.
29-31 … SGMP Getaway, Hilton Sedona Resort & Spa. http://sgmpaz.org

Author: Admin
July 08, 2011
Umm... Did someone say Family Feud? I am there!!!

 Directions

July 19, 2011

NACE Family Feuding
Just like your favorite game show but with questions on the event industry!
July 19, 2011
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
The Capital Grille
16489 North Scottsdale Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
 

It's our unique version of Family Feud!  Come join your NACE Family in this fun, interactive luncheon to test your knowledge of event management, beverage management, catering services, accounting, contracts, agreements, food production, sales and marketing. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 19th from 12pm -2pm at The Capital Grille in Scottsdale, 16489 North Scottsdale Road.  You don't want to miss this one!

The cost to attend is $25 for Members, $30 for Employees from a Member Company, First Time Attendees and Spouses or Significant Others of a Member, and $35 for Guests. Click on the "Register Now" button to sign up. No shows and cancellations within 72 hours of the meeting will be charged.

We hope to see you there!

Author: Admin
July 05, 2011
Knock Out Strategies for Working with Price Conscious Customers

Wednesday, July 13, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ET (Note: webinar will be recorded*)

Webinar Cost: $35 (includes recording)

Knock Out Strategies for Working with Price Conscious Customers

Presented by our NACE National Board Members Linwood Campbell, CPCE and Lisa Hopkins, CPCE, CMP!

 

Getting knocked out by the price conscious customer and your competition? Well it is time to step into the ring and learn from these pros how to score the knock out punch, win that price conscious customer and garner clients for life. Learn how to go all 12 rounds for your customer regardless of their budget by being strategic in your preparation. To a degree, it’s about the integrity of your product and the perception you portray with all customers – those who are on a tight budget, and those who aren’t. In the end it’s not about  fighting the customer, but rather fighting the image that doing events on a budget doesn’t have to be a battle at all if you know what you are doing, and are prepared to “go the distance.”

 

All attendees will receive one contact hour towards their initial or recertification of the Certified Professional Catering Executive (CPCE) Designation.  For more information, visit the CPCE page.

 

*A recording of this webinar will be available!  Sign up today and receive the recording the day after the webinar.

 

July webinar Web site: http://www.cvent.com/d/tdqyhw.

 

Please let me know if you have any questions and have a wonderful holiday weekend!

Author: Admin
June 22, 2011
NACE Event Elements 2011

2011 NACE Event Elements Winners
Congratulations to all the winners!!! 


1st Place Winter - Seville Golf and Country Club
 

 

2nd Place Winter - The Buttes


3rd Place Winter - Rendezous Catering
 

 

1st Place Spring and Peoples Choice - David Twigger

 

2nd Place Spring - Cake in Hole


1st Place Summer - Yknot Party Rentals

 

2nd Place Summer - Encore Creative

 

1st Place Fall - Butterfly Petals 

 

2nd Place Fall - J Starr Events

 

1st Place Cake and People's Choice Cake - JW Marriott Desert Ridge

 

2nd Place Cake - Arizona Grand Resort

 

Spirit of NACE - Dawn Peterson Hotel Valley Ho 

Author: Admin
June 21, 2011
Events Elements- Fox 10 News

Good Morning! In case you missed the Event Elements TV Spots this morning...here's a link! Feel free to share and spread the word.....Public Viewing starts at 3pm to 6pm.

http://www.myfoxphoenix.com/dpp/morning_show/corys_corner/table-top-competition-06212011

Have a great day all!

Author: Admin
June 17, 2011
Upcoming Webinars and Idea Swaps

Remember to stay informed.... Be ahead of the rest.

Get all the hot new trends and ideas by attening our Webinars or swapping ideas with other industry professionals. Below you will find the dates of NACE webinars and idea swaps.

2011 NACE Events
NACE WEBINAR SERIES
Looking for education without the travel? Partici¬pate in NACE's educational webinars from the comfort of your own desk! These virtual learning opportunities allow attendees to listen to a speaker over the web or phone while simultaneously view¬ing their presentation. Register for your webinar at www.nace.net/cs/events.

June 15
Selling With Style - How to Skyrocket Sales by Understanding the Four Different Buying Styles
Speaker: Robert Carrow

July 13
Knock Out Strategies for Working with Price Conscious Customers
Speakers: Linwood Campbell, CPCE and Lisa Hopkins, CPCE , CMP

August 17
An Indian Wedding Primer
Speaker: Therese Cole-Hubbs, Electric Karma International

September 21
Upselling Unique Events with Wines and Spirits
Speaker: Alyson Anderson, Republic National Distributing Company

October 19
Once Upon A Time...Incorporating Story Selling Into Your Sales Process
Speaker: Cliff Schamber, CPCE, CMP

November 16
Personal Branding: The "X" Factor That Can Help Make or Break Your Success / $35
Speaker: Gary Hernbroth, Training for Winners

December 14
Top 10 Considerations in a Catering/Event Contract
Speaker: Jeff Woodward, Stites & Harbison

NACE Members Only Idea Swaps*
NACE membership has its privileges. Take advantage of these unique open forums, specific to your area of expertise, to find solutions, discuss trends and pick up time-saving tips. These town hall discussions are moderated by top industry leaders and are conducted via conference call. *Participation in the NACE Idea Swaps is for members only and member verification will be required to register.

May 28
Audience: Off Premise Caterers

June 24
Audience: On-Premise Caterers

July 12
Audience: Hotel Catering Professionals

August 23
Audience: Chefs

September 27
Audience: Private and Country Club Professionals

October 25
Audience: Event Producers and Designers

November 8
Audience: Event Entertainers (DJs and Bands)

December 13
Audience: Photographers and Videographers

 

See you all at Event Elements!!

Jessica Barry

 

Author: Admin
June 14, 2011
NACE Conference 2011

We're just 39 days away from the NACE Experience! conference in Reno-Tahoe this July.
With all-inclusive meals, education and networking with peers from across the country, it's time to claim your seat at the table.

Here are just a few highlights to mark your calendar!
Your personal experience includes* design, culinary, philanthropy and business solutions:



Photo credits (left to right): DJones Photography, Mark Gaynor Photography and Laurie Fryar Photography

Monday, July 25
Opening General Session: From the Streets to the Stove: The Power of Change with Chef Jeff Henderson
Culinary Experience
*The Foundation of NACE fundraising event in the Bubinga Lounge (Eldorado Hotel)

Tuesday, July 26
Design Experience
Marketplace Expo
Member Idea Swaps
*Breakout session: Create an International Wine Experience! includes unique ideas for creating and selling international wine and food pairings.
*Gala Awards Dinner and After Party


Wednesday, July 27
Closing Keynote Speaker: Recipe For Success - 5 Ingredients for Well-Balanced Leadership

*Denotes fees and/or special ticketed events. View fees page for details.

Begin your Experience! now.

Sincerely,

NACE Experience! Team

 

Author: Admin
May 27, 2011
NACE Webinar Series Schedule

NACE Webinar Series Schedule - Open to the public, each webinar takes place on Wednesdays at 2 pm - 3 pm ET. Registration fee: $35 per webinar. Remember, each webinar recording will be a resource at your fingertips at any time once you have registered for the webinar. View the NACE events page.

Registration is OPEN!

June 15 - Selling with Style - How to Skyrocket Sales by Understanding the Four Different Buying Styles
featuring Robert Carrow

July 13 - Knock Out Strategies for Working with Price Conscious Customers
featuring Linwood Campbell, CPCE and Lisa Hopkins, CPCE, CMP

August 17 - An Indian Wedding Primer
featuring Therese Cole-Hubbs

Author: Admin
May 24, 2011
Events to Attend in June!!! Remember to stay involved and build new relationships!

 

JUNE 2011
1 ... ISES Annual Meeting and 5th Birthday Celebration, 5:30-8:00pm, location TBA. www.isesaz.com.
8 ... SITE "Sip with SITE". www.azsite.org.
8 ... VH&RA City Officials Luncheon, 11:30am, The Phoenician. www.vhra.net
9 ... MPI Annual Awards Gala, 6:00-10:00pm, DoubleTree Paradise Valley Resort. www.azmpi.org
15-16 ... HSMAI Affordable Meetings West, Long Beach, CA. www.affordablemeetings.com.
15 ... SGMP Luncheon & Showcase, "Catering Resource Extravaganza", Carnegie Center, 11:00-1:00pm. www.sgmpaz.org.
15 ... AZBTA Annual Education Day, 7:30am to 5:00pm, Royal Palma Resort & Spa. www.azbta.org.
21 ... NACE Event Elements Competition & Fundraiser, "The Four Seasons", 3:00-9:00pm, The Buttes, a Marriott Resort. www.phoenixnace.com
21 ... HSMAI Community Outreach, Hacienda Healthcare. Time with the Children, 3:30-5:30pm. www.hsmai-az.org.
23 ... HSMAI Annual Chinese Auction Fundraiser & Dinner, "Year of the Rabbit", DoubleTree Paradise Valley Resort, 5:30pm-9:30pm. www.hsmai-az.org.
23 ... WEN Meeting, 6:30-8:30pm. www.wenaz.org

Author: Admin
May 24, 2011
The Foundation of NACE has something for everyone

 

 

The Foundation of NACE is giving you something to believe in.
At our core, the Foundation of NACE believes in becoming the most prominent proponent of overall advancement of the catering and event profession, students and the community at large. That's why, beginning in 2011, "I believe" will be a phrase to be remembered and revered.
This year, we will be allocating our time and funds to developing three concepts for our industry. 
1. Educating Today - The Foundation of NACE will develop and implement robust industry education with schools and universities in order to expand content and drive institutional collaboration to strengthen the knowledge base of catering and events professionals.
2. Discovering Tomorrow - The Foundation of NACE will provide insight and intelligence regarding the catering and events industry to individuals and organizations, serving as a viable resource for professionals looking to build a formidable enterprise.
3. Community Always - The Foundation of NACE will have the ability to inspire greatness in students and the people in our communities by providing scholarships and opportunities for involvement in charitable activities that will build a strong foundation for our future.
Now, the Foundation of NACE offers you several ways in which you can "believe" in your commitment to our organization.
Yes!
I "believe" I'd like to give back now!

Attending Experience! 2011 in Reno Tahoe?
The following opportunities to give back will be available to you onsite:

Monday, July 25 7:00 - 11:00 p.m.
Become a Believer at the Foundation of NACE fundraising event, taking place at the Bubinga Lounge in the Eldorado Hotel (connected to the Silver Legacy Resort Casino). This event includes entertainment, heavy hors d'oeuvres and a drink.

Tuesday, July 26 3:00 - 4:15 p.m.
Create an International Wine Experience!
This breakout session taking place during Experience! 2011 includes unique ideas for creating and selling international wine and food pairings. A portion of the cost of the session will go to the Foundation of NACE. To learn more from the speakers, check out their video invitation.
Author: Admin
May 24, 2011
5th Annual Event Elements Competition

 

5th Annual Event Elements - Table Top Decor & Confectionary Creations Competition and Annual Fundraiser

Featuring the theme " The Four Seasons"

Tuesday, June 21, 2011
3:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Buttes Tempe Resort
2000 West Westcourt Way
Tempe, AZ

Sign up NOW at http://phoenixnace.com/meetinginfo.php?id=77  

Proceeds benefit Feeding America's Hungry Children and the NACE Educational Fund. If you have any questions about the competition, contact Dawn Peterson, Special Events Chair, at dpeterson@hotelvalleyho.com. Please do not contact the hotel for questions about this event.

Author: Admin