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Catering Programs

Free Catering Education

FREE catering-focused workshops offer the latest trends and money-saving solutions for events, buffets and taking food on the road.

That’s Fabulous! Event Design Trends for 2012
Monday, March 12 – 1:30-2:45 pm

Transform indoor and outdoor spaces into unique event experiences that will "wow" customers and guests. Learn how to bring a high level of quality using inexpensive objects, essential techniques for design inspiration, new ways to use existing spaces and take away a broad knowledge of color palettes and stylish combos. Ultimately, you’ll gain ways to help increase profits of your special events and large party sales in this engaging presentation by David Caruso, premier event planner in Wisconsin and owner of Dynamic Events.

Getting More from Event Partnerships
Tuesday, March 13 – 2:30-3:45 pm

Get the most out of your business partnerships and acquire tips on creating great impact on a small budget. Learn to create huge impressions on a small budget as you sit in on a panel discussion with members of NACE Southern Wisconsin. Hear from floral expert Emily Neubauer of Belle Fiori, rentals expert David Hudok of CANOPIES Events with Distinction, linens expert Brenda Teigland of Carousel Linen and imagery expert Neil Keikhofer of Front Room Photography.


Pairing Beer and Chocolate
Wednesday, March 14 – 1:00-2:00 pm

Learn how to pair beer and chocolate with a Chocolatier and a Brewer! Learn why both these tasty treats go so well together and what you should look for when you pair up beer and chocolate. Certified Cicerone, Grant Holtackers of Tenth and Blake Beer Co., and Chocolatier Julie Waterman, owner of Indulgence Chocolatiers, present this dynamic presentation.


Plus, many more foodservice seminars planned over all three days!

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CPCE Certification (PAID)

The National Association of Catering Executives (NACE) is proud to offer the Certified Professional Catering Executive (CPCE) designation – the catering and event industry’s most prestigious professional certification. Earning your CPCE communicates professionalism and strengthens your earning power. There is no better way to show your colleagues, clients and vendors that you are a master of your craft.

CPCE Fast Track (PAID)
Tuesday, March 13 - 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Prepare for the CPCE exam with Fast Track training, a last minute review of the core competencies in preparation for the exam. Supplementary study materials, including a Fast Track companion workbook and quick draw flash cards are also available on the NACE website. Open to anyone; you do not need to sit in Wednesday’s exam.
$125 per person – Sign up now

CPCE Exam (PAID)
Wednesday, March 14 - 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

The CPCE exam consists of 175 multiple choice questions designed to emphasize the core competencies of the catering and events industry. Candidates will be given 3 hours to complete the exam. Successful candidates will earn the right to use the CPCE designation.

To Apply: Complete the application form in its entirety. The application fee includes a copy of the NACE Professional Reference Guide, the official study guide for the exam. The guide may also be purchased separately in the NACE Store. Applications for the exam are available online.

Questions? Contact Kristen Reilly, Education Coordinator, NACE, cpce@nace.net

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Catering Marketing Series

Foursquare & Twitter – What Do I Need This For?
Wednesday, March 14 – 7:30-9:30 am

This off-site session is put on by NACE Southern Wisconsin; some costs may apply.
More information

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Tabletop Design Competition
All three days, right on the show floor

Event professionals showcase original concepts, and high-design displays for eight-top tables. Get a view of the best table décor in Wisconsin!