About Us

The National Association for Catering and Events (NACE), the oldest and largest catering association in the world, encompasses all aspects of the catering and events industry. Dedicated to promoting career success for its members and the professionalism of the industry, NACE offers educational programs, professional certification, chapter initiatives, networking opportunities, recognition and awards programs, a job bank, community service projects and the industry’s most prestigious annual conference. In helping its members enhance their business and careers, NACE helps the industry reach its highest potential.

NACE MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of NACE is “To advance the catering and events industry and its professionals.”

NACE STRATEGIC PLAN

• NACE Educational Conference

A highlight of NACE is the Educational Conference held each summer. It is the largest event in the world dedicated exclusively to the professional caterer and industry suppliers. Nationally recognized speakers and catering professionals present a comprehensive educational program. Exciting social events showcase the best and brightest in menu planning, food preparation, service, presentation and decorations. Equally important are the contacts you develop with your peers and the ongoing networking resources that you take home

• Certification

In addition to the training and educational opportunities available at the chapter and national levels, NACE members may demonstrate their commitment to professionalism and integrity by earning the designation and of Certified Professional Catering Executive (CPCE). NACE members who achieve CPCE status represent the best in the catering profession. Details about CPCE criteria, study materials, test dates and locations, and exam fees are available from NACE national headquarters.

• Annual Membership Directory

On an annual basis, NACE provides its members with a powerful national networking tool -- a compilation of membership information arranged in three sections: alphabetically by chapter, alphabetically by up to three specialties and cross-referenced by last name. In addition, members may also request member roster updates, at no charge, throughout their membership year.

• Leadership Training

Because local chapters are the essence of NACE, the association invests time and money to ensure that chapter leaders are trained to perform their duties. Each January, NACE conducts a Leadership Conference, where chapter presidents, and other local leaders join the NACE Executive Committee for three days of training and educational sessions.

• The Foundation of NACE

In 1985, NACE created the Foundation of NACE to further the association's positive impact in educating future catering professionals at the university level. The Foundation awards grants to established catering courses and degree programs in college curricula. Recent recipients of NACE Foundation grants are Florida International University, University of Nevada at Las Vegas and Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management at the University of Houston. Through the Foundation, NACE is helping universities and colleges recognize the importance of culinary degrees.

For more information about the Foundation, visit www.nace.net/give

• Awards Program

NACE established an annual awards program to honor its members' highest achievements and outstanding contributions to the catering profession. Winners are recognized at a gala awards ceremony held during the Educational Conference, as well as through articles in Catering Solutions and industry press releases.

Awards
Catered Event of the Year
Event Production of the Year
Planner of the Year
Table Presentation of the Year
Team Event of the Year
Wedding of the Year

Nomination Deadlines and Fees:
Early Bird Deadline*
March 31, 2015
11:59 p.m. EST 
$95 Submission Fee

Final Deadline
April 15, 2015
11:59 p.m. EST
$115 Submission Fee

Exceptions will not be granted for late entries.