I recently attended the National Conference for the National Association of Catering Executives. Held in Austin, Texas at the Hilton Downtown were 3 and a half days packed full of programming and workshops. I had previously participated in the 2007 conference held in Houston but was working as the convention photographer and did not get a chance to actually sit back and enjoy the events. This time I attended as a registered attendee and attempted to soak up all of the resources and speakers info provided. The conference always starts off with a kick off party and this was no exception. The event was a cowboy themed event at the Driskill Hotel featuring both Two Tons of Steel and American Outlaw bands. Also on hand were saloon girls and a fantastic opportunity to pick up a complimentary custom shaped cowboy hat including a hat band to the first 150 or so through the door. There was just so much going on it is hard to write it up so enjoy the photos and thanks again to the Houston Chapter of NACE. I did also want to congratulate some of our local members for receiving awards at the conference.

Lisa Hopkins, CPCE, CMP of the Houstonian  – Caterer Member of the Year

Monique Studak of E&J Gallo Winery – Event Professional Member of the Year

E&J Gallo – Business Partner of the Year

Erin Oeser with the University of Houston – Awarded to National President’s List

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