Dwayne Ridgaway, event designer, chef, and cookbook author offers a comprehensive look at how caterers and event designers can join forces to execute extraordinary events. Rarely during the conceptual stage of events do the caterer and designer combine efforts to build a cohesive design. Many times the two are hired by a client individually, often proposing isolated ideas to achieve the client’s wishes. Whether an offsite operator, a venue, or a hotel the caterer can often provide resources to an event designer and vice versa that aid in fully realizing a concept. Combining his own experiences with that of event and catering colleagues Dwayne presents ideas, concepts and advice that will provoke strong working relationships between caterers and design professionals alike.

Session Deliverables:
1. An opportunity to interact and converse with an industry professional that represents both the catering and event design fields.
2. Strategic thoughts and ideas on how to develop better relationships with Catering teams that in the end produce a better event
3. Concepts and visions on how working hand-in-hand with the caterer/hotel/venue has a positive impact on budget, overall concept, timing and execution of events.
4. Discover ways to integrate resources that may have never been considered before (i.e. table top items, linen, station, buffets, service staff, uniforms, etc.).