Speakers

• Founder, Mindy Weiss Party Consultants
• mindyweiss.com

Over three decades and thousands of iconic events, Mindy Weiss has become one of the most recognizable names in global event and wedding planning. Known for her imaginative ideas and warm leadership, Mindy has produced unforgettable moments from celebrity weddings to high-profile brand launches with the same unmistakable flair. Her client list includes the Kardashian family, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco, Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi, Demi Lovato and Jordan Lutes, Nina and Russell Westbrook, and many more. And her influence extends far beyond the aisle: she’s also a bestselling author, speaker and lifestyle curator, with close to a million Instagram followers. She’s the featured expert of the only wedding-themed MasterClass and she was even an answer to a question on Jeopardy. No matter where in the world Mindy is producing an event, her imaginative spirit and eye for design continue to shape the way the world gathers and celebrates.

• Founder, Fisher Firm
• jeffersonfisher.com

Jefferson Fisher is a Texas board certified trial attorney and law firm owner of Fisher Firm. He is a best selling author of “The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More” and host of a weekly podcast.

In 2022, He began making videos of his practical communication tips to help people argue less and talk more. He recorded them the same way as he does today—in his car, in between hearings or after work.

Today, he is one of the most respected voices on communication and arguments in the world. Millions of people (over 9 million followers on social media!) and some of the world’s leading brands come to him for advice and practical strategies to communicate more effectively.

Whether it’s through his videos, podcast, book or live talks, he is committed to helping you become more articulate, confident, and persuasive in every conversation.

• VP and Global Head of Programming & Originals, Pinterest
• pinterest.com

Nadine Zylstra is the Vice President and Global Head of Programming & Originals at Pinterest, where she leads a global team that serves as the editorial voice for the platform, creating content that inspires and engages Pinterest’s 600 million monthly users.

Previously, Nadine was Global Head of Originals at YouTube, directing award-winning programs for Kids, Families, Learning, and Impact. She also spent many years at Sesame Street as Vice President and Supervising Producer, helping to reimagine and launch new digital formats for the beloved show.

Raised in South Africa, Nadine brings warmth, creativity, and a unique global perspective to her work. She serves as a Strategic Advisor to CPB and is a Board member of PBS SoCal, contributing her expertise to both the Advancement and Content & Distribution committees.

• Owner | Creative Director, Tyler Speier Events
• tylerspeier.com

Tyler Speier is an internationally acclaimed event planner, designer, and florist, partnering with couples and brands to produce unique, trend-setting events across the globe.  Named “Best Overall Vendor” for three years in a row by California Wedding Day Magazine, Tyler Speier Events (founded in 2009) has grown from a small family business to one of the most recognized event planning brands in California. He and his wife, Taylor, have four children, and have fostered four children over the course of their marriage.  Tyler values bravery and authenticity, encouraging fellow creative entrepreneurs to courageously be themselves in business and in life.

• Event Planner, Marcy Blum Associates
• marcyblum.com

Marcy Blum has been planning and producing weddings and other events for almost 38 years. Her sense of humor has been integral in her making it this long and her genuine fondness for most people has contributed to her success in a very competitive field. Marcy is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and she has worked in many restaurants in various capacities. Consequently, focused attention on service, food and hospitality are pillars of her approach to celebrations.

Marcy Blum Associates Events is made up of a team of passionate, creative, and innovative humans who care deeply about the guest experience in addition to the clients’ experience.

• Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Rafanelli Events
• rafanellievents.com

Bryan Rafanelli is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Rafanelli Events, a globally recognized leader in event planning and experiential design. With nearly 30 years of experience, he has built a reputation for creating events that are both visually stunning and deeply personal—balancing creativity with strategic precision.

Under his leadership, Rafanelli Events has produced some of the most high-profile celebrations in the world, from weddings and brand launches to state dinners at the White House and major sporting events. Whether crafting an intimate destination wedding or an immersive hospitality experience, Bryan and his team are known for delivering seamless, detail-driven events that leave a lasting impression.

His work has been featured in VOGUE, Harper’s Bazaar, Town & Country, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and he is widely regarded as one of the top event planners in the world. Clients turn to him not just for exceptional execution, but for the sense of meaning that he brings to each event.

Beyond production, Bryan is a respected entrepreneur and thought leader. He has grown Rafanelli Events into a firm that merges bold design with business intelligence, helping clients strengthen their brands, engage their audiences, and amplify their impact. His holistic approach—rooted in collaboration, intention, and innovation—continues to shape the future of experiential design.

• Danielle Frankel Studio
• daniellefrankelstudio.com

Danielle Frankel Studio is inspired by the celebration and the beauty of bridal. With a respect for nostalgia and tradition, yet with a forward and directional approach to modern desires, designer Danielle Frankel Hirsch creates a new perspective of what it means to be a person getting married.

Danielle Frankel Studio fabrications, techniques and aesthetics are simple yet intricate in both construction and finishings. At the core of every piece there are elements of whimsy and vulnerability encapsulating both the bride and groom’s story and what lies ahead.

• Owner, Todd Events
• toddevents.com

Todd Fiscus is the fearless leader and creative director behind all Todd brand companies – Todd Events, Party! Dallas, and Avant Garden and now, co-founder of PILLARS of Production. His 30+ years of experience in the industry include full scale event production, floral design, hospitality sales and management, culinary art, interior design and consulting, restaurant design and ownership, event space and logistical consulting, and more. At the heart of each of his endeavors is the desire to make others feel the joy and zest for life that he does – through beautiful experiences that thoughtfully bring people together. No one has the ability like Todd to pair “personal” with “pretty” in a way that makes everyone feel special, seen, and celebrated!

• New York-Based Wedding, Love, and Lifestyle Editor

Charanna Alexander is a distinguished New York–based journalist renowned for her expertise in weddings, love, and lifestyle coverage. With a fervent passion for storytelling and a deep understanding of relationships, she has carved a remarkable niche in the media industry, accumulating more than 15 years of invaluable experience.

As Weddings Editor at The New York Times, Charanna oversees coverage that spans bridal fashion, celebrity weddings, relationship trends, and wedding industry news. Her work highlights everything from couture gowns debuting on the runway to the evolving ways couples celebrate love, offering readers a front-row seat to the moments, movements, and emotions that define modern relationships.

A native of Los Angeles who came of age in New York City, Charanna’s diverse background and experiences have deeply informed her perspective and storytelling. She earned her bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from Howard University and a master’s degree in digital media from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

• Co-Founder and Creative Director, Easton Porter Group
• eastonevents.com

As the creative force and co-founder of Easton Porter Group (EPG), a luxury hospitality company, Lynn Easton provides strategic vision and a well-honed stylistic eye on all elements of design and presentation for its highly acclaimed properties, including the celebrated Easton Events. The EPG portfolio is most recognized for Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards, Zero George Hotel and Cannon Green; and its exponential growth landed it a spot on the 2015 Inc. 500 list of fastest-growing private companies in America.

Whether orchestrating elegant destination weddings for Easton Events or layering texture and patina in the boutique hotels, restaurants, wineries and event venues run by Easton Porter Group, Lynn is an inspired innovator and detail-driven design expert. Her background in television production in New York City lends itself well to event production across the globe, as every Lynn Easton project, property or marquee occasion showcases her intuitive sense of stage setting and classic but fresh design.

Lynn’s reputation for “high-touch” events and impeccable attention to detail is why Easton Events is regularly found on “best of” top planner lists by Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and Martha Stewart Weddings. Easton Events’ discreet client list includes individuals listed on Forbes 100, Grammy winners, Oscar winners and an array of lifestyle influencers.

Lynn divides her time between her residences in Charlottesville, VA and Charleston, SC.

• Founder, Sarah Haywood Exceptional Celebrations
• sarahhaywood.com

Sarah is a leading European wedding planner who has been described as: “Britain’s most sought-after wedding planner and an authority on multimillion-dollar weddings” by TIME magazine, and “one of the most highly-rated wedding planners in the world” by Paris Match. In 2023 she was named one of the 50 most influential people in the British luxury sector by Walpole London.

The Sarah Haywood Exceptional Celebrations team produces multi-day events across Europe for pop stars, princesses and some of the world’s leading families. Working with visionary creative partners, including Royal Warrant holders, Michelin star chefs and the most exclusive hotels, venues and private properties, the company consistently ranks among the top international wedding planners in independent listings such as Vogue, the Spear’s Indices and Over the Moon.

Sarah built the company from a desk in her home to a multi-million pound enterprise within a decade. An award winning businesswoman, she is the author of two bridal books, hosts workshops and courses, consults with venues and bridal businesses and speaks at the main event conferences throughout the world. She is regularly featured in the international press and has appeared in the news, in publications, and on television on every continent of the globe. She consulted for HBO on their award-winning TV drama ‘Succession’, and has worked for a diversity of brands from Unilever to VisitScotland. She was the go-to international commentator for the wedding of the Prince and Princess of Wales and commentated for CNN for the live broadcast of the royal nuptials. More recently Sarah hosted her own TV series: “The Wedding Fixer” which is currently available on BBC iPlayer.

• Chief Creative Officer, David Stark Design and Production
• davidstarkdesign.com

David Stark is a renowned New York-based event producer, designer, author, as well as Founder and Chief Creative Officer of David Stark Design and Production, a full-service event design and planning firm. Starting out as a painter, before moving into floral design, David Stark has since been a leader and innovator in the event industry for over 25 years.

David Stark Design and Production is celebrated for the inventive, imaginative events it creates for a wide range of high-wattage celebrity clients and events such as Glenn Close, Brad Pitt, Mariska Hargitay, and SNL’s 40th Anniversary, major corporations such as Target, Hermès and HBO, as well as high-visibility events and fund-raising galas for the nation’s most elite not-for-profit organizations including The Robin Hood Foundation, The Whitney Museum of American Art and The Metropolitan Opera.

Stark, a six-time author, has released his newest book in collaboration with designer and Culture Lab Detroit founder, Jane Schulak entitled At the Artisan’s Table (Vendome Press, 2022). In 2013, he released David Stark: The Art of the Party (Monacelli Press). David Stark: The Art of the Party is a visually stunning monograph that documents David Stark Design and Production’s design philosophies, conceptual process, and breadth of work put forth since the company’s inception in 2005. His previous books include David Stark Design (Monacelli Press, 2010), Napkins with a Twist (Artisan, 2006), To Have & to Hold: Magical Wedding Bouquets (Artisan, 2005), and Wild Flowers: Projects and Inspirations (Clarkson Potter, 2003).

David Stark’s product collaborations and creations have included several collections for West Elm, a “store ambush” of Haus Interior in NYC for his WOOD SHOP collection, and Paper Tales, a limited-edition collection of one-of-a-kind art pieces produced exclusively for Bergdorf Goodman. In 2015, David collaborated with Detroit ceramicist, Victoria Ashley Shaheen to create a line of limited-edition flower rests and vases for Culture Lab Detroit’s first ever pop-up shop, Culture Lab Design.

“E! News,” “Access Hollywood,” “The Today Show,” and “The View” are several television shows that have called upon David to serve as a guest expert on décor, party planning, and holiday decorating projects. David and his work are often featured in publications including the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, ELLE DECOR, Vogue.com, Real Simple, Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, Glamour, Interior Design, InStyle, House Beautiful, Better Homes and Gardens, and Town & Country, as well as on a number of design-focused blogs. In the fall of 2016, he was inducted into the BizBash Hall of Fame. David is also an active member of the not-for-profit and design communities, sitting on the Board of Trustees for God’s Love We Deliver and the Board of Advisors for the Brooklyn Museum of Art.

• President and Chief Creative Officer, Svarin Creative
• svarincreative.com

Named one of the top Wedding and Event Designers in the world by Harper’s Bazaar, VOGUE, Brides and Martha Stewart Weddings, along with being recognized as Top 40 under 40, Rishi remains one of the most highly coveted event designers among discerning clientele and notable figures alike. With over 15 years of experience in the luxury event world, Rishi is an advocate for fully transformative design, he specializes in celebrations of all kinds – all while adhering to the firm belief that service and guest experience are the cornerstone to great events and the definition of true luxury.

As much of a creative visionary as an astute business leader, Rishi’s insistence on unconventionality has continuously transformed the landscape of event design while granting him the honor of designing events for some of the most notable figures, families and organizations in the world.

Rishi regularly seeks inspiration from whatever cultural landscape he can find himself in. The destination event and wedding world has allowed Rishi and his team to embrace so many incredible regions and pockets of the world to create spectacular events. Regardless of the marvelous adventures in design that await him, Rishi will always consider himself an artist at heart.

• Creative Director, Stefanie Cove and Company
• stefaniecove.com

With over 20 years of experience, Stefanie Cove founded Stefanie Cove and Co. specializing in worldwide event production for the most discerning and high-profile clientele. Based in Los Angeles and known for her discretion and refined taste, Stefanie Cove produces singular, full-service events around the world, organized and designed from concept to completion.  Stefanie and her team’s unique ability to incorporate a client’s personal aesthetics, while delivering seamless production and cutting edge design, is further reflected in an effortless guest experience with memorable details. She also has an extensive background within the 5-star hospitality industry which enables her to consult and advise hotels and restaurants around the world.  In addition to her own personal expertise, Stefanie has curated a multi-faceted, in-house team of design, production and catering professionals, allowing for limitless support and insight tailored to each event and client.

• President, Simon T. Bailey International
• simontbailey.com

Simon T. Bailey is a researcher and the architect of Brilliance — a global voice who electrifies boardrooms, classrooms, and hearts with practical wisdom, contagious hope, and soul-stirring strategy.

Part Disney-bred customer experience savant, part truth-teller, and fully a catalytic coach to the C-suite and entrepreneurs, Simon fuses neuroscience, ancient philosophy, proprietary research, and soul work to ignite resilient well-being in leaders in 2,500 organizations across 55+ countries.

Whether mentoring Gen Z in Accra or inspiring executives in Aspen, Simon doesn’t just speak — he unlocks brilliance that sticks, scales, and soars.

He’s transformed keynote stages into launchpads, digital platforms into purpose-driven ecosystems, and life’s toughest valleys into sacred classrooms.

With a cobalt-blue heart and a beach-colored soul, Simon’s journey is living proof: brilliance isn’t just what you do — it’s who you become when faith, resilience, and purpose align.

• Founder and Creative Director, CLG Creative
• carrielgoldberg.com

Carrie Goldberg is the founder and creative director of CLG Creative, a fashion styling and creative consultancy serving personal, bridal, and corporate clients worldwide. With Carrie at the helm, CLG Creative’s body of work is further elevated by a top-tier team of stylists whose expertise spans the worlds of fashion, fine jewelry, e-commerce, travel, PR & Marketing, and more.

Throughout her work, Carrie channels her background in editing and art direction from her six-year tenure as the Weddings & Travel Director at Harper’s BAZAAR and prior to that as the Senior Fashion Editor at Martha Stewart Weddings. In collaboration with fashion and weddings’ best, CLG Creative strives to consistently elevate the look and feel of event fashion, creating looks that are print-worthy, refined, and tastemaking.

• Principal + Creative Director, Calder Clark Designs
• calderclark.com

• Chief Experiences Officer, Rheefined Company Weddings & Special Events
• rheefined.com

Jason Rhee is the owner and founder of Rheefined Company, an award-winning event planning, design, and floral studio based in Los Angeles. With over 18 years of experience across luxury weddings, hospitality, nightlife, venue management, and large-scale production, Jason has become known for creating unforgettable celebrations that are as intentional as they are breathtaking.

Rheefined Company offers full-service planning, thoughtful event design, and in-house floral artistry, with a strong emphasis on concierge-level service. From multi-day destination weddings to intimate elopements and high-profile NDA events, Jason and his team are trusted for their professionalism, warmth, and discretion. Whether planning in California, or across the globe, every detail is handled with care, creativity, and calm precision.

Jason is celebrated not only for his stunning events but also for the energy he brings to them. With his signature laugh-out-loud humor, grounded presence, and collaborative spirit, he builds strong relationships with clients, creative partners, and on-site teams alike.

As a gay Korean American business owner and advocate for inclusion, Jason actively speaks, mentors, and uplifts others in the industry. He proudly identifies as an “edutainer,” blending education and entertainment to help create a more diverse and equitable world of events.

At the heart of his work is a belief that success means living, creating, and collaborating with kindness, purpose, and joy.

“Being a wedding planner for nearly two decades, I’ve realized something. I’m a professional third wheel, and I’m totally OK with it.”

• Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Birch Event Design
• birchevents.com

Josh Spiegel is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Birch Event Design, a New York–based luxury event production company redefining the art of celebration. Known for his visionary approach and impeccable attention to detail, Josh has transformed the landscape of event design through his signature blend of creativity, precision, and high-touch service.

With an eye for storytelling through space, Josh leads the BIRCH team in producing immersive environments that evoke emotion and create lasting impact — moments by which all others are measured. His work seamlessly bridges artistry and logistics, delivering experiences that are as technically flawless as they are visually extraordinary.

Under his direction, Birch has become a global authority in the event industry, earning features in leading publications such as Vogue, Harper’s BAZAAR, People, and Brides. Josh’s ability to translate a client’s vision into breathtaking reality has earned him international recognition and a loyal roster of high-profile clientele.

A true innovator, Josh continues to push boundaries, setting new standards for creativity and excellence in luxury event design.

• Principal and Creative Director, Pineapple Productions
• pineapplepro.com

• Senior Advisor, Oaklins | DeSilva+Phillips
• dp.oaklins.com

Howard Givner is a serial entrepreneur, innovator and business strategist, specializing in the events and ed-tech industries. He advises corporate event teams, event agencies and other businesses on growth, innovation, measurement, strategy and M&A. He is a Senior Advisor at Oaklins | DeSilva + Phillips, a global mid-market investment bank, and CEO of the Heathcote Advisory Group, a consulting practice for business leaders.

Howard is the publisher of Event Business Intelligence, a newsletter for event business owners and executives.

He has successfully built and sold three businesses in the events industry and has advised over a dozen other industry CEOs on M&A and growth strategies. He was the founder and CEO of the Event Leadership Institute, a provider of training and resources for meeting planning, event marketing and hospitality professionals, which was acquired by PCMA in 2023. He also led the U.S. division of Grass Roots Meetings & Events during its sale to BCD Meetings & Events in 2018, and he was the founder and President of Paint the Town Red, an event agency which he subsequently sold to Global Events.

Howard is a frequent industry speaker, writer and educator on a broad range of topics. He is an avid hiker, crossword solver, podcast junkie, fiction writer and cancer survivor.

• Founder & Principal, Julian Leaver Events
• julianleaver.com

With nearly 30 years of expertise in luxury event planning, Julian Leaver Events is where impeccable design meets intentional preparation. Based in Dallas but with a vision that spans the globe, Julian Leaver Events caters to stylish, modern couples and their families looking for expert-level guidance for the more than 3,000 micro decisions that planning a wedding entails. Whether it’s an elegant soirée in a five-star ballroom within Texas or a multi-day wedding in Mallorca, the team produces signature events with perspective and confidence.

• Owner, Kathleen Deery Design / Paula LeDuc Fine Catering & Events
• kathleendeerydesign.com

• Event and Wedding Producer, Andrew Roby Events
• andrewrobyevents.com

Andrew Roby is an award-winning event and wedding planner, interior stylist, and founder of Andrew Roby Events, a boutique agency known for crafting mission-aligned, design-driven experiences across the U.S. and beyond. With more than 20 years in event production—from military ceremonies to luxury weddings and corporate activations—Andrew brings a unique balance of precision, creativity, and purpose to every project.

A sought-after speaker and educator, Andrew challenges the industry to think differently about leadership, creativity, and client experience. His contrarian yet practical insights push professionals to build businesses rooted in authenticity, intentional design, and long-term sustainability—without losing sight of joy and wellness.

Through his signature approach to storytelling and design, Andrew empowers fellow creatives to transform events into meaningful moments that connect people, places, and purpose. His thought leadership and speaking engagements inspire audiences to reimagine what’s possible when every detail serves a deeper story.

• CEO, Duet Social Media
• duetsocialmedia.com

Abby Jiu is the co-founder of Duet Social Media, a strategy and content agency helping luxury wedding professionals turn visibility into business growth. Drawing on more than 15 years as the award-winning founder of Abby Jiu Photography, she brings a deep understanding of how visuals, voice, and strategy work together to build brands that last.

At Duet, Abby and her co-founder Sam Jacobson help creative businesses develop personal brands that attract the right clients, communicate value with clarity, and build social-led growth that supports long-term success. Her perspective combines a luxury photographer’s eye with a strategist’s insight, guiding brands to show up with purpose and confidence online.

Abby lives in Washington, DC with her husband, Jamey, and their two children, Cooper and Coco.

• Co-owner, Le Rêve Films
• lerevefilms.com

According to ChatGPT: Lindsey Conklin is the co-founder of Le Rêve Films, the studio he and his wife, Cherish, started in 2010. Recognized by Harper’s Bazaar and Over the Moon as one of the top wedding filmmakers globally, their work has taken them across the U.S. and around the world, filming high-profile events in more than 20 states, 10 countries, and four continents.  On the wedding day, Lindsey is known for his calm presence, cinematic approach, and respect for each couple’s story.  Whether he’s behind the camera or sharing insights with other creatives, Lindsey leads with humility, intention, and a genuine love for the work.

According to his kids: My dad, many words could describe him, annoying? loud? Yes those two words could describe him, but he is also talented, kind, and when he puts his mind to something (as in a new project) it most likely means that it won’t happen.

Lindsey’s Sister says: My little brother has driven me crazy since the day he was born. I have had to watch his performances from the living room to the stage all his life. It never occurs to him he might be considered obnoxious or irritating, and he wouldn’t care if he was. Now he annoys his wife and children along with all who unfortunately have to work with him. Sorry you must sit through his presentation.

According to his mother: What can we say about Lindsey? From the moment he could walk, he was a whirlwind of talent and personality—constantly on the move, cracking jokes, teaching himself to juggle, play guitar, drums, and forever putting on a show. Raising him was like living with a pint-sized Jim Carrey—exhausting, hilarious, and wildly entertaining. And somehow, in the middle of all that chaos, he grew into the most wonderful son, husband, and father. We couldn’t be prouder.

What Cherish says: It’s no surprise that Lindsey has roped his family into creating this bio for him. “Work smarter, not harder” would probably be his motto if he had one. That being said, he is my absolute favorite person on this earth. He’s grounding, passionate, driven, and everyone’s biggest cheerleader. To know Lindsey is to love him.

• Founder | Creative Director, Christine Ferguson Events
• christinefergusonevents.com

Christine Ferguson is a global wedding planner and designer, celebrated for crafting thoughtfully curated experiences through her company, Christine Ferguson Events. With a portfolio of exquisite weddings and elevated social gatherings, Christine is widely respected for her artistry, intentionality, and ability to transform moments into lasting memories.

Her work has been featured in premier publications including Forbes, Brides, Wall Street Journal and Essence Magazine—further cementing her status as a tastemaker and thought leader in the events industry.

Christine’s impact extends beyond the events she designs. As a dedicated mentor, she guides aspiring planners and designers along their entrepreneurial journeys; offering not just expertise, but encouragement, clarity, and strategy. Through education and speaking engagements, she empowers the next generation of creative entrepreneurs to lead with purpose and build brands rooted in authenticity.

She is also a certified floral designer, adding another layer of creative depth to her work, and a professionally trained chef through the Art Institute of New York. This rare combination allows her to design immersive, multi-sensory experiences that are as flavorful as they are beautiful—bringing harmony to the visual, culinary, and emotional details of every celebration.

Whether she’s designing an intimate dinner party or a grand destination wedding, Christine Ferguson is dedicated to creating meaningful, immersive events that reflect the heart of every client she serves.

• Editor-in-Chief, Carats & Cake
• caratsandcake.com

Cindy began her career in the wedding industry in 2013, when she and her husband, Carl, founded Bliss & Bone, a design-forward platform recognized for its distinctive wedding websites and stationery that fuse art and individuality through a modern digital lens. In the fall of 2024, they took over Carats & Cake and now lead the company’s strategic direction, shaping its philosophy, products, and trajectory.

As a designer and entrepreneur, Cindy leads with vision and curiosity. She defines the look, feel, and voice of both brands—from site and product design to content and brand strategy. Every image, feature, and detail passes through her hands. Since taking over Carats & Cake, she has helped evolve it into a technology-driven platform built on innovation and community.

Based in Michigan, she and Carl have spent 12 years working side-by-side while running two businesses, raising two kids, and managing one very full calendar. When she’s not at her desk, she’s with family, cheering from the soccer sidelines, or exploring new wellness ideas—all while trying to master the art of balance with drive, grit, and, of course, love.

• Managing Partner, Master Connection Associates
• masterconnection.com

• Founder, Owner, and Curator, The Wedding Artists Co.
• theweddingartistsco.com

Lisa Raffo Ashley is the founder, owner, and curator of The Wedding Artists Co., a boutique representation agency for wedding photographers and filmmakers. Since establishing the company in 2010, she has nurtured the careers of some of the industry’s top talent.

With handling nearly 2,000 contract negotiations and overseeing 100+ press placements for her artists, Lisa brings invaluable experience and a unique perspective to every client relationship. On behalf of her artists, she works seamlessly with wedding planners and couples, ensuring smooth collaborations from initial inquiry to final delivery and press opportunities.

For her artists, Lisa is part advocate, advisor, PR strategist and admin support. For planners and clients, she’s a reliable partner ensuring exceptional service and professionalism. Her unique position at the intersection of artistry and business makes The Wedding Artists Co. an invaluable resource in the luxury wedding industry.

• Head of Partnerships, Over The Moon
• overthemoon.com

Savannah Rockwin, based in New York City, brings seven years of experience in digital marketing and brand partnerships in the luxury weddings and events industry. Currently, Savannah serves as the Head of Brand Partnerships at Over The Moon, contributes editorial insights, manages influencer relationships, and assists with social media initiatives. In this role, she works closely with OTM Founder and Vogue Contributing Editor Alexandra Macon to amplify Over The Moon’s global reach and promote their curated collection of over 350 designers and brands.

Savannah also works alongside Samantha Roberts supporting social media, marketing, and content strategies for a handful of leading event and lifestyle brands. Known for her expertise in content creation, Savannah has captured viral content resulting in millions of views and collaborated with top photographers and videographers including Jose Villa, Allan Zepeda, Corbin Gurkin, Le Reve Films, and Peyton Frank, among many others.

Savannah’s career began at Kleinfeld Bridal, where she served as their Social Media and Marketing Director for five years. She led Kleinfeld’s social media strategy for an audience of 3 million and oversaw brand partnerships like Disney, Make-A-Wish, Dennis Gross, Sakara, and more. She worked with TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress, launched designer collections both in-store and online, and planned brand activations including runway shows, charity events, and editorial campaigns. At Kleinfeld, Savannah also launched their TikTok account which organically reached over 20 million views each year.

• CEO, Ideaction Consulting
• ideactionconsulting.com

Sam Jacobson helps creative entrepreneurs master the business of sales. He teaches wedding professionals to communicate value clearly, close high-end clients confidently, and grow stronger, more profitable brands.

In 2016, he founded Ideaction Consulting to help creatives build businesses rooted in the science of selling, not charisma, connections, or intuition. In 2024, he co-founded Duet Social Media, applying the same strategic focus to attracting more ideal clients with social-led growth.

Sam pairs deep expertise in buyer psychology with practical strategy that drives measurable results. A believer in how properly designed AI can take the guesswork out of managing the business side of your company, he’s leading the next wave of innovation in creative entrepreneurship.

He hosts the Own Your Business podcast and lives in the San Juan Islands, Washington.

• Founder & Creative Director, WedLuxe
• wedluxe.com

Nearly twenty years ago, Angela Desveaux set out to celebrate the artistry of luxury weddings when she founded WedLuxe. With a background as an art director, she built a brand that has continually evolved alongside the changing world of media and design. Today, WedLuxe includes three distinct divisions, none of which fit the traditional definition of media but all of which are united by Angela’s creative vision, marketing expertise, and passion for design excellence.

WedLuxe Creative Agency
As Creative Director, Angela collaborates with many of the world’s leading event planners and designers to produce custom digital invitations, event websites, printed stationery, luxury gifting, signage, and immersive event branding. Much of the work is white-label, empowering planners to deliver full-service creative solutions under their own brand while maintaining creative control and profitability. The agency also develops branding and websites for creative professionals seeking a partner fluent in both luxury aesthetics and the technical foundations of SEO and digital storytelling.

WedLuxe Membership Program
Led by Angela’s partner Bruce Patterson, this boutique initiative supports a select group of brands and creatives each year. The main focus is helping members grow their own platforms through content collaboration, storytelling, and strategy, while leveraging WedLuxe’s audience of more than one million followers to enhance visibility and engagement.

Event Partnership Division
Angela also leads collaborations with luxury hotels and tourism boards, producing showcases, FAM trips, and special events. Past partners include St. Regis, The Ritz-Carlton, Accor Hotels, and the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, earning her a Gold Adrian Award from HSMAI for Best Integrated Content Marketing.

After a decade in Florida, Angela proudly became an American citizen, a milestone she considers her greatest personal achievement.

• Owner / Editor in Chief / Publisher, Destination I Do
• destinationido.com

When Jennifer and her business partner began Destination Media 21 years ago, it was with the intent to report on all things destination wedding, honeymoon and romance travel related and to fill a gap in the wedding industry. One that would show real couples around the world celebrating their destination weddings. Jennifer’s love of the beautiful cultures and colors around the world has been central in everything printed and shared through DestinationIDo.com. Her goal has been to bring readers helpful information to plan their weddings wherever it is in the world with whomever it is with – regardless of race or gender.

Since then, the media outlet has grown from a small, glossy publication sold around the U.S. to a sought-after brand, known for serving the destination wedding reader wherever they are – from the airwaves to Instagram and everything in between.

Connected to readers and industry experts on all fronts, Destination I Do creates helpful daily content through their growing website and social media network. Destination I Do is also starting season four of their podcast with Jennifer as the host.

With more than 26 years of business and publishing experience, Jennifer has seen her international business thrive and grow. She was recognized as one of the “Top 35 Entrepreneurs Under 35” and is a chosen speaker at several prestigious industry conferences and business summits. With a substantial client list, talented contributors and a growing following – Destination I Do is an icon in both the wedding and travel industries.

• CEO, Aisle Society
• aislesociety.com

Shafonne Myers is a Visibility, PR, and Sales Strategist, media mogul, and trailblazer transforming the wedding industry. As the CEO and founder of Aisle Society, a global media network, she leads 13 influential wedding publications including Elizabeth Anne Designs, Brooklyn Bride, Chic Vintage Bride, and Mountain Side Bride. Her platform champions inclusivity, representation, and authentic storytelling in weddings worldwide.

She’s also the visionary behind Pretty Pear Bride, the world’s first site exclusively for plus-size brides, and a contributor to The Los Angeles Times. Her thought leadership has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and more, where she continues to challenge industry norms and inspire meaningful change.

Known for her bold, results-driven approach, Shafonne helps wedding professionals and female founders turn visibility into profit through her trademarked Feature to Profit™ framework. It’s a proven system that transforms media features and press visibility into brand influence, client attraction, and consistent revenue growth, creating a visibility ecosystem.

Beyond weddings, Shafonne is a sought-after strategist in personal branding and online business, having supported multi-million-dollar launches and driven over $32 million in revenue for her clients and partners.

Whether leading her media network, coaching founders, or speaking on global stages, Shafonne’s mission remains clear: to redefine visibility as the intersection of influence, income, and impact, and to make inclusivity the new standard of luxury.

• CEO, Maharani Weddings
• maharaniweddings.com

It’s an honor to share my passion for weddings with you at this luxury wedding conference. My journey in the wedding industry began with my own love story, which ignited my fascination with South Asian ceremonies and the vibrant celebrations that accompany them.

As the Editorial Director of Maharani Weddings, I lead a talented team dedicated to curating inspiring content that guides couples through their wedding journeys. We publish original articles, insights from industry professionals, and creative ideas, all while showcasing the artistry and cultural richness of South Asian weddings. Our platform reaches millions of brides and wedding enthusiasts monthly, with daily features that highlight trends and real weddings.

In addition to my editorial work, I serve as a Corporate Sales Trainer for prestigious hotels and venues, including Disney, Marriott, Loews, Westin, Hyatt, and Hilton. I conduct training sessions all over the world, including North America, Latin America, and Europe. This role has allowed me to deepen my understanding of the hospitality industry and foster strong relationships with key players in the wedding and event space, empowering teams to create exceptional experiences.

I am also a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion within the corporate events sector. I’ve had the privilege of speaking at Engage! Summits about the importance of representation in event planning. These discussions are essential for fostering a more inclusive approach across all corporate events, ensuring that every voice is heard and celebrated.

My mission is to inspire brides with innovative ideas while celebrating the deep bonds that characterize South Asian weddings.

• Sr. Director, Experiential Marketing, The Knot Worldwide
• theknotww.com

• Founder & Creative Director, Kesh Events
• keshevents.com

• Founder, The Bridal Bar
• bridalbar.com

Harmony Walton is the founder of The Bridal Bar, a public relations and marketing agency for luxury event professionals and hotels and a concierge service for couples to connect with those companies. For the past 21 years, Harmony has helped launch dozens of successful wedding businesses, re-positioned older companies within the changing market and supported countless wedding industry clients across the globe. Her company has been recognized around the world and featured in 100+ media outlets, including The Associated Press, ABC Nightly News, GMA, The New Yorker, The New York Times, Entertainment Tonight, People Magazine, Martha Stewart Weddings and many more. When she’s not working behind the scenes with some of the biggest industry brands you know, she’s busy chasing her five-year-old daughter around.

• CEO and Co-Founder, PartySlate
• partyslate.com

Julie Novack is the CEO and Co-Founder of PartySlate, the leading platform where event professionals showcase their work, connect with new clients, and store their photo portfolio for easy search, sharing, and marketing. She is passionate about helping professionals in the events industry grow their business by leveraging their content. Since founding PartySlate nine years ago, more than 30,000 planners, venues, and vendors have uploaded over 3.5 million photos and videos. Julie is now leading the company’s expansion into AI-driven photo management tools that simplify organizing, searching, and sharing content. Julie has an MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management and brings over 25 years of experience helping Fortune 500 companies enhance their digital presence, having worked at top New York–based digital agencies Razorfish and Agency.com.

• Editorial Director, Educator + Floral Designer, Equally Wed
• equallywed.com
• kiraflora.com

Kirsten Palladino is a multi-award-winning entrepreneurial educator, DEIB consultant, sought-after international speaker, floral designer, and published author. She is the cofounder and editorial director of Equally Wed, the world’s leading LGBTQ+ wedding magazine, as well as the creator of Equally Wed Pro, an educational resource and community for inclusive-minded wedding and event professionals, and the founder of Kiraflora, a garden-inspired floral design studio in Atlanta, Georgia.

As one of the foremost experts in LGBTQ+ weddings and LGBTQ+ inclusivity since 2010, Kirsten has written for, been interviewed by and featured in myriad luminary publications including Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, The New York Times, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, New York magazine, Time magazine, Go magazine, Glamour magazine, The Knot magazine, Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides, Them, AARP, and A Practical Wedding.

She is a recurring in-studio guest on major news networks, such as CNN, NPR, and CBS; multiple podcasts; webinars; and stages of wedding and event conferences around the globe, including Engage! Luxury Wedding Summits, WIPA, NACE, WeddingMBA, WeddingPro events by The Knot and WeddingWire, LGBTQ+ Wedding Congress, and the White Dress Society Retreat.

A 2 on the Enneagram chart, she loves to give back to the industry that’s given her so much. Kirsten serves as the education director of WIPA – Atlanta, as a mentor for the National Society of Black Wedding and Event Pros, and as an advisor for Fellowship for Change (a program by WeddingPro, a product of The Knot Worldwide).

Kirsten is the author of Equally Wed: The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your LGBTQ+ Wedding, the first and only gender-neutral wedding planning book for LGBTQ+ couples, which was published by Seal Press, part of Hachette Book Group, which is one of the top five publishing houses in the United States, and available wherever books are sold.

• Owner, Garter Girl Creative
• gartergirlcreative.com

Julianne Smith is a multi-passionate entrepreneur as the owner of Garter Girl Creative, an innovative media and marketing company focused on supporting all sides of the wedding and event industries. As a nationally recognized wedding accessory designer, digital media strategist and highly sought after small business educator, Julianne has over 20 years of experience in the industry.

Julianne is the owner and founder of The Garter Girl, a stylish wedding garter design company she started in 2004, after she couldn’t find a garter worthy of her best friend.  The Garter Girl is known for stylish and meticulously handmade wedding heirlooms that are too pretty to toss.

Julianne owns and edits niche wedding websites, including her newest brand, Let’s Get Rehearsed, which is focused on taking the stress out of planning a rehearsal dinner.

Through her namesake media and marketing agency, Julianne helps creative small businesses in the wedding and event industry. Julianne offers done-for-you services, online courses, digital products and speaking engagements centered on controlling content, and brand positioning online.

Julianne is a multi-time speaker at the wedding industry’s premier conference, Engage! Summits. She has been featured on NBC’s Today Show, People, Huff Post, Lifetime, The Knot, Martha Stewart, Brides, and Glamour as well as many top magazines, podcasts, conferences, and blogs.

Before starting Garter Girl Creative, Julianne was a political communications strategist, spokeswoman, and media specialist. She lives in Washington, DC with her husband and three kids.

• Partner, Ed Libby Events
• EdLibby.com

• Engage! Co-founder
• engagesummits.com

Rebecca Grinnals is widely regarded as one of the foremost experts on the business of weddings & honeymoons. She is the Founder and President of wedding and honeymoon industry consulting firm, Engaging Concepts and Co-Founder of Engage! Luxury Wedding Business Summits.

Engaging Concepts is known for successfully-positioning global brands in the wedding and destination wedding industry. The company boasts a lifetime client list that includes The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, Hilton Worldwide, Sandals & Beaches Resorts, InterContinental Hotels Asia-Pacific, Loews Hotels & Resorts, Palace Resorts, Harley-Davidson, the Kessler Collection, Disneyland Resort, various developers, venture capital firms, and many leading luxury wedding and event professionals.

Through Rebecca’s tenure at Engaging Concepts, Engage! Summits was born to bring together the wedding and event industry’s key influencers, thought leaders and tastemakers from around the globe to exchange ideas, innovate, and take the wedding industry to the next level. Named by Fortune as “the wedding industry’s most exclusive conference,” all 40 summits, experiences and retreats have been sellouts with guests coming from 45 states and 35 countries, generating an unprecedented 50 million social media impressions and counting.

Named as a BIZBASH Event Innovator: Most Innovative People in Events & Meetings, Rebecca is also a sought-after speaker, trainer, and business trend expert. She has been a featured guest on CBS’ “The Early Show,” CNN, Entertainment Tonight, CNBC and hundreds of other national and international television and radio programs. She’s been quoted in The New York Times, USA Today, Forbes, Brides, and many more. And she has produced wedding events and remotes for, among others, “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” “The TODAY Show” and “Good Morning America.”

Prior to creating Engaging Concepts, Rebecca Co-Founded Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons for The Walt Disney Company, and spent ten years developing the concept into an unprecedented success. She directed the complete branding strategy, development and implementation of the program, building it into almost a $100 million per year business for Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and the Disney Cruise Line. These efforts resulted in over 20,000 weddings and the coveted status for Disney as the # 1 Domestic Honeymoon Destination.

With a home base in Central Florida, today the Engage! family is exactly that. Fifteen years into Engage!, Rebecca’s two daughters have grown up with the company and the legacy of these wedding initiatives is now multi-generational.

• Engage! Co-founder
• engagesummits.com

Kathryn Arce brings over 30 years of innovation and flawless event execution to her roles as Co-Founder of Engage! Luxury Wedding Business Summits and Managing Director of Engaging Concepts.

Through her work with Engaging Concepts, Kathryn has successfully developed campaigns and global initiatives in the luxury wedding and honeymoon space for brand names such as The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, Hilton Worldwide, Sandals & Beaches Resorts, InterContinental Hotels Asia-Pacific, Loews Hotels & Resorts, Palace Resorts, Harley-Davidson, the Kessler Collection, Disneyland Resort, various developers, venture capital firms, and many leading luxury wedding and event professionals.

In 2008, she became the Co-Founder of Engage!, which came to life to better serve the global luxury wedding and event community through unmatched summits, experiences, and retreats. Named by Fortune as “the wedding industry’s most exclusive conference,” these events bring together the wedding and event industry’s key influencers, thought leaders and tastemakers from around the globe to exchange ideas, innovate and be inspired to take their successful businesses and, in turn, the wedding industry to the next level. Since inception, all 40 events have been sellouts with guests coming from 45 states and 30 countries, generating an unprecedented 45 million social media impressions and counting.

Kathryn began her career as a Wedding Event Manager for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings, where she personally planned and executed hundreds of weddings and related events. With an unyielding penchant for phenomenal customer service, Kathryn was instrumental in developing the early high standards of service Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings is known for today. She then stepped away from the wonderful world of weddings and was the Manager of Guest Services for the flagship Disney Store on Fifth Avenue in New York City where she facilitated all VIP Programs & Events. While living in NYC, Kathryn also worked with renowned wedding and special event planner Marcy Blum on the highest-profile weddings and events of the era, including Billy Joel & Katie Lee, Donald & Melania Trump, basketball legend Horace Grant, famed novelist, Tom Clancy, and more.

Kathryn has penned numerous articles on destination weddings and honeymoons which have been published in travel magazines throughout the US and Caribbean. She has produced events and live remotes for The TODAY Show, CBS’s The Early Show and “LIVE with Regis & Kathie Lee.” She was also named a BIZBASH Event Innovator Most Innovative People in Events and Meetings.

Known as a logistical maverick, Kathryn’s second-to-none grace of leadership and extensive guest service training paired with vast real-world wedding and event planning experience make her an invaluable resource for clients looking to “raise the bar” of their wedding programs.

She resides in Florida where her husband and two daughters have become respected members of Team Engage!