VIRTUAL WEBINAR
“Associations Unlocked: Maximizing Membership, Driving Initiatives, and Overcoming Industry Challenges
Join us for an empowering virtual event, “Associations Unlocked: Maximizing Membership, Driving Initiatives, and Overcoming Industry Challenges,” where the national Presidents of NSBWEP, ILEA, and NACE come together for a transformative discussion. This webinar will explore the pivotal role of associations in shaping the event and wedding industry, spotlighting 2025 initiatives, solutions to pressing challenges, and actionable strategies for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Dive deep into the benefits of association membership, uncover how to maximize its value, and learn how to actively contribute to the industry’s future. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to gain insights from three trailblazing leaders dedicated to collaboration, inclusion, and innovation.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
- Understand how associations drive progress, innovation, and unity within the event and wedding industry.
- Gain insights into the 2025 initiatives of NSBWEP, ILEA, and NACE that will advance their associations forward.
- Learn actionable strategies for making the most out of association memberships and actively contributing to the industry’s growth.
- Explore practical approaches to advancing DEI efforts and fostering a more inclusive and equitable professional community.
- Discover strategies to overcome key challenges facing the industry, including workforce, technology, and economic shifts.
INVESTMENT:
- NSBWEP Members – Complimentary
- PARTNER Members (ILEA/NACE) – Complimentary
- Non-Members $35.00
- Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable to another event.
ABOUT OUR SPEAKERS:
Tara Melvin is a highly respected event planner and industry innovator based in Washington, DC. She is the Creative Director and visionary behind Signature Concepts LLC, a premier event planning firm known for creating high-profile, high-end events with a personalized touch. Tara’s expertise and dedication have earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of BizBash’s Industry Innovators of 2022 and one of the Top 500 Most Influential Event Professionals in 2021 and 2020.
In addition to her work with Signature Concepts LLC, Tara is the founder and President of The National Society of Black Wedding & Event Professionals (NSBWEP). This organization is the first and only wedding and event association dedicated to Black professionals in the industry, aiming to elevate and celebrate Black-owned event and wedding businesses. Tara’s passion for creating unforgettable moments and her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion have made her a prominent figure in the events industry.
Melissa A. Jurcan is a distinguished professional in the events industry, currently serving as the President of the International Live Events Association (ILEA) and working with Compass Group at Amazon in Seattle, WA. In her role at ILEA, she sets the strategic direction and works to strengthen and expand the association’s vibrant community. Melissa has also made significant contributions as the Director of Sales, Marketing & Communication at Seafair Inc., where she revitalized Seattle’s iconic summer festival by managing sponsorships, digital marketing campaigns, and press events. Her notable accomplishments include expanding Seafair’s offerings to include wine tasting, food trucks, a cooking stage, and a concert with fireworks. With a rich background in planning events for major venues like Qwest Field and the University of Phoenix Stadium, as well as experience in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles, Melissa has demonstrated her expertise in successful event planning. She also played a key role in hosting the ISES Live conference in Seattle, showcasing the city as a premier event destination. Passionate about creating moments that bring people together, Melissa’s work at Seafair and ILEA reflects her dedication to fostering creativity and collaboration within the events industry.
Michelle Stansfield, CPCE, is a highly regarded professional in the catering and events industry. She currently serves as the National President of the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE). Currently, she serves as the Senior Account Manager for Terramar DMC’s Palm Springs location. Michelle is known for her deep understanding of the local market dynamics in Palm Springs and her dedication to providing exceptional service.
Michelle has a wealth of experience in event planning and management, which has earned her recognition and respect within the industry. She has been actively involved in NACE for several years, contributing to various initiatives and programs aimed at enhancing the professional development of its members. Her dedication to the industry is evident through her work in organizing successful events and her commitment to fostering a collaborative and innovative community within NACE.
