2017 Official Brochure, The Signature CEO Conference by Perfect Planning Events

2017 WWW.THESIGNATURECEO.COM NOVEMBER 6 & 7, 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ HARBOUR VIEW, WOODBRIDGE, VA

I AM SO EXCITED THAT YOU ARE HERE!

Welcome I am delighted to welcome you to The Signature C.E.O Conference '17 which brings together a diverse group of dynamic entrepreneurs in the creative industry. The conference program is rich with dynamic speakers who are leaders within their own professions, and are breaking barriers as successful business owners. This 2-day event is an opportunity for you to experience a hands-on instructional conference developed to challenge and empower YOU! The most remarkable characteristic of the conference is that it was designed with care to focus on the skill-set of entrepreneurs and businesses within the creative community. The conference will concentrate and stimulate best practices, unconventional learning, sharing, and how to improve your overall business acumen. This very spirit is the driving force behind The Signature C.E.O Conference, and this spirit is what has prompted the organization of the conference; a friendly, invaluable and inspiring community event that helps us all become better at what we do! The world of entrepreneurship is an exciting and an ever-changing market, and The Signature C.E.O Conference strives to meet and bring inspiring people together in forums like this, to ensure that you and your business remains at the cutting edge and conquer SUCCESS! Creating successful Chief Event Officers…Business Intelligence for Savvy Creative Professionals! I hope that you will find the conference both invaluable and enjoyble! Cheerfully,

Tara Melvin Founder, The Signature CEO Conference • www.thesignatureceo.com Chief Event Office, Perfect Planning Events • www.thesignatureceo.com

A BRAND IS WORTHLESS IF IT DOESN'T CONNECT WITH THE RIGHT AUDIENCE IN A RELEVANT WAY!

Why use Social Media? Marketing is no longer about the stuff you make, but about the stories you tell. (Seth Godin)

#thesignatureceo | #thesignatureceo17 #perfectplanningevents signatureceo | perfectplanning thesignatureceo | perfectplanin2 thesignatureceo | perfectplanningeventsdc

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DAY ONE, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6TH

AGENDA 7:30am - 8:00 am Registration | Continental Breakfast Vendor Booths Open

1:15 pm Speaker | REINA POMEROY "Beyond the Fad…Sustainability in the Creative Economy"

8:15 am Open Remarks | TARA MELVIN

2:05 pm Speaker | CANDICE COPPOLA "Expanding Your Business into a New Market"

8:30 am Speaker | BRIAN GREEN "The Client Process...Connecting the Dots in the Sales Cycle"

2:55 pm BREAK Vendor Booths Open

9:20 am Speaker | CHANNING MULLER "Transformation…When You know its time to Re-Brand"

3:15 pm Speaker | CRYSTAL BAILEY "Putting the Pro in Professional Business Etiquette"

10:10 am BREAK Vendor Booths Open

4:05 pm Speaker | MARCUS JOHNSON "Finding Your Flo in the WorkPlace"

10:30 am Speaker | AYESHAH ABUELHIGA "The 7 Deadly Profit Sins"

4:55 pm Closing Remarks | TARA MELVIN Vendor Booths Open

B y J o y c e W r i g h11:20 t am P h o t o g r a p Speaker h s b y |M a r k LIVAS Halberg ANGEL

7:00 pm COCKTAIL RECEPTION

"How to Use Video to Tell Your Story" 12:15 pm LUNCH Vendor Booths Open

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

7:30 pm WELCOME DINNER PARTY

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DAY TWO, NOVEMBER 7TH

AGENDA 7:30am - 8:00 am Registration | Continental Breakfast Vendor Booths Open 8:15 am Open Remarks | TARA MELVIN 8:30 am Speaker | AKISHE AKINSEYE "The Customer Experience…A Luxury State of Mind" 9:20 am Speaker | MYRNA DARAMY "Behind the Scenes of An SEO Dashboard…What your SEO Can Tell You" 10:10 am BREAK Vendor Booths Open 10:30 am Speaker | EDGAR ZAMORA "How to Empower Teams to Embrace Collaboration"

B y J o y c e W r i g h11:20 t am KUTCHMAN WYNNE P h o t o gSpeaker r a p h s| JAMIE by M ark Halb erg

1:15 pm Speaker | VENDOR PANEL DISCUSSION ELI TURNER • ELANA WALKER • MICHAEL DELTETTE, ADAM DONOVAN GROVES 2:05 pm Speaker | KUNBI ODUBOGUN "8 Legal Mistakes to Avoid as An Entrepreneur" 2:55 pm BREAK Vendor Booths Open 3:15 pm Speaker | CHELSEA LAVERE "Getting Featured to Stay Relevant" 4:05 pm Speaker | GABRIELLE JORDAN "Don't be a ByStander in the World of Business" 4:55 pm Closing Remarks | TARA MELVIN THE END! Vendor Booths Open

"DeMystifying Social Media…Leveraging Consistency & Connection to Convert Clients"

IN THE

12:15 pm LUNCH Vendor Booths Open SPOTLIGHT

N O M A D I C P A| G 2E 4 |

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the Speakers (LISTED IN ORDER OF THE AGENDA)

BRIAN GREEN CREATIVE VISIONARY • WEDDING & EVENT PLANNER

MY CAREER CEO and Creative Visionary of By BrianGreen LLC based in Atlanta and Crown Events Inc. in Barbados – BRIAN is an award-winning event planner with over sixteen years of experience in the international events industry. He has managed hundreds of memorable and cutting-edge events over the years from celebrity weddings, to grand charity galas, large and small conferences and everything in between. Prior to establishing his own businesses, BRIAN was a distinguished member of the Diplomatic Corps for Barbados where he served as Vice Consul at Miami and worked directly for the then Barbados Tourism Authority in the promotion of the country as a tourism destination. Brian’s remarkable attention to detail, hands-on approach, and inventive style quickly positioned him as one of the most sought after event planners in Atlanta and other major cities across the globe. In 2010, the readers of JEZEBEL, one of Modern Luxury’s premier magazines, voted Brian as the Best Wedding Planner in Atlanta, a title they once again conferred on him in 2015 and yet again in 2016 – making him the first back to back winner in the history of the award. He has also been recognized as “a Hall Of Fame recipient for Best of the Knot” for consecutive wins from 2012 to 2016. He was a regularly invited talent offering advice on Women’s Entertainment (We)TV network’s hit show “Get Married,” for two seasons and was the celebrity planner who designed their magazine’s cover for their Winter Edition, 2010. He has been featured several times by the uber chic and highly respected Grace Ormonde Wedding Style, Brides Magazine, Occasions Magazine, Atlanta Weddings, Bride’s Atlanta Magazine, the well-respected, Style Me Pretty blog, Munaluchi Bridal Magazine, Modern Luxury’s Atlantan Bride, Caribbean Bride, Essence Magazine, and Jezebel Magazine just to name a few. He is also a regular contributor for The New York Times’ “About.com” website featuring planning tips for fabulous events to both the public and his peers.

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CONNECTING THE DOTS IN THE SALES CYCLE...THE CLIENT PROCESS SMART OBJECTIVES: Theclientprocessisacomplexanddetailedprocessthat beginslongbeforeyouevermeetwithaclientand surviveslongaftertheexecutionofyourevent.This sessionwillhelpyouinfindingtherightbalanceand toolstohelpyousuccessfullynavigatethismost importantofprocesses. Be your brand! How to effectively qualify a client Execution of contract - clauses to protect your business Planning Timelines Terminating a client relationship Conflict resolution Managing Client Expectations

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CHANNING MULLER MARKETING STRATEGIST â&#x20AC;˘ PUBLIC RELATIONS EXPERT

MY CAREER CHANNING Muller is the principal and founder of DCM Communications, a marketing consulting firm based out of Washington D.C. that works with event professionals to grow and scale their businesses with refined marketing strategies developed through 1-1 and group coaching. She has more than 15 years of experience in the communications industry serving in top roles within marketing, magazine and newspaper editorial, advertising, and business development. Prior to launching DCM she has served in a top international marketing position for Cision, overseen advertising campaign design and execution for Bisnow Media, and held the position of Miami Bureau Chief for BizBash, the leading media company for the live events industry. These roles have honed her expertise in advertising, reporting, editing, marketing, social media and public relations. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter.

TRANSFORMATION...WHEN YOU KNOW IT IS TIME TO RE-BRAND SMART OBJECTIVES: Evaluate current brand equity (strengths and areas for improvement) Create a detailed client persona & value proposition for the next stage of your business - this will help you scale your revenue and set the stage for next step Determine the new look and feel of your brand without losing brand equity developed thus far Streamline your digital & offline presence to reflect the new brand and reach the target client persona (website, email marketing, social media, networking events) Effectively communicating your new value proposition

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AYESHAH ABUELHIGA CEO • MARKETING GURU • KICK STARTER EXPERT

MY CAREER AYESHAH is the CEO of Mason Dixie Biscuit Co., located in Ivy City, Washington, DC. Her passion and respect for restaurants and Southern cuisine was first inspired as a child of two immigrant parents who owned soul food carry-out restaurants in Baltimore, MD. Her parents’ entrepreneurship in a blue collar city inspired her to want to bring an element of simpler cooking and the wholesomeness of a blue collar town to Washington, DC, but she was uncertain of how to start. For over a decade, she worked for major Fortune 500 companies, including Toshiba and Audi, and consulted for companies such as Microsoft. She became the youngest lead Product Strategist for Audi’s Vehicle Intelligence product line and helped define business development strategies. She knew she needed sharp business acumen to be successful in her own entrepreneurial passions, and in 2012 finally began embarking on her own journey to open a restaurant. Inspired by the thriving cultural scene and need for affordable Southern and homemade comfort food, she developed Mason Dixie Biscuit Co. – a biscuit-centric restaurant focused on affordable, wholesome Southern comfort food with fast, friendly and familial service.

THE (7) DEADLY PROFIT SINS

SMART OBJECTIVES: Identify Profit Leaches & Eliminate them Now by Calling Their Bluff Learn How to Negotiate a Better Deal & Reduce Your Costs on at Least One On-Going Expense Increase Market Awareness by Investing in the Right Marketing that Actually Increases Your Bottom Line

In 2014, Ayeshah launched Mason Dixie Biscuit Co. after a successful raise and multiple pop-ups around the city. She was the first to develop a fast casual concept as a pop-up in DC, leading to a series of other successful pop-ups, including those for Bad Saint and Timber Pizza. Abuelhiga also led her team to win Mess Hall’s first Launch Pad competition, pushing Mason Dixie into the limelight as “DC’s Darling” of a restaurant and earning a pop-up location at Union Market. In 2015, she codeveloped the Mason Dixie Ready-to-Bake line of frozen biscuits with partner, Jason Gehring and launched the brand with the help of her other partner, Ross Perkins into over 13 states and 333 stores, and counting. Ayeshah is featured as in Washington Business Journal as One of Washington’s Top 10 Innovators for 2017 in the 2017 Book of Lists and was named one of DC Inno’s 50 on Fire for 2017. She has also helped earn the company accolades from the Specialty Foods Association, Food Network TV and Magazine, Garden & Gun magazine, and Martha Stewart Living. IWWW.THESIGNATURECEO.COM

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ANGEL LIVAS PRODUCER • ENTREPRENEUR • MULTI-MEDIA PERSONALITY

MY CAREER ANGEL LIVAS is a Gracie Award-Winning Executive Producer, a Multi-Media Personality, the President and CEO of DC Media Connection, LLC, and the CEO of Creative Introduction, LLC. With nearly two-decades of media experience, Angel believes in sharing her wealth of multi-media expertise to help propel the success of others. In 2016, Angel was highlighted in the Washington Business Journal under “People On The Move” and named “Influential Business Woman of 2016” by AI Magazine. Prior to launching Creative Introduction, Angel oversaw six-nationally syndicated talk-radio shows, which included producing programming for award-winning celebrity hosts: Larry King & Jane Pauley. Angel has completed two certificate programs (Advanced Project Management, Stanford University; Mini-MBA: Social Media Marketing, Rutgers University) post receiving her Master’s degree at The American University, with an emphasis in Interactive Journalism. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Howard University, receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism. Angel is a proud lady of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and resides in Northern Virginia with her husband and two children.

HOW TO USE VIDEO TO TELL YOUR STORY SMART OBJECTIVES: Ifyouhaveabusiness,aremanagingabrandorpromotingyour productsorservices-youshouldbeutilizingvideotohelp“Tell Your Story”!Inthissession,wewilldiscusssuccessstoriesof individualsandbrandswhohaveturnedtodigitalstory-tellingto spreadtheirmessaging.So,whetherit’slivestreamsorpreproducedvideos-we’llsharepracticaltacticstoassistyouwith capturingengagingcontentandqualityvideo.

Don’t be camera shy - Getting over your fears Inexpensive production upgrades to make high production quality videos. Key factors to consider when capturing video on your phone How to set up a good shot composition Setting The Stage for high quality video Mic Check…Producing good audio quality

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REINA POMEROY LIFE + BIZ SUCCESS COACH

MY CAREER REINA is the Owner and Founder of Reina + Co, the Life + Biz Success Coaching Practice for creatives who are right brained and heart centered. She helps clients stop spinning their wheels and take action on what’s most important. She’s a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach with over 1,000 hours of coaching under her belt. Reina also co-hosts the Creative Empire Podcast where she interviews leaders in the creative industry. She’s based in Washington DC but her clients and creative entrepreneur community live all over the globe. You can find Reina’s work featured on Brit + Co, The Huffington Post, Honeybook, Forbes Top Podcasts for Entrepreneurs, The Rising Tide Society and Best Friends for Frosting.

BEYOND THE FAD...SUSTAINABILITY IN THE CREATIVE ECONOMY SMART OBJECTIVES: Don't Compete on Price Spot the Gaps, Not the Trends Create Systems + Signature Processes

Reina has her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Master’s degree in Social Work and is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) from the Coach Training Institute and the International Coaching Federation. She’s a candy connoisseur and could tell you what each flavor of Jelly Belly is in a container. Currently she lives in a suburb of Washington, DC with her almost 3 year old son, puppy and Marine husband.

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CANDICE COPOLLA WEDDING INDUSTRY MENTOR & COACH • WEDDING PLANNER & DESIGNER • PUBLISHED AUTHOR

MY CAREER CANDICE is a business owner, wedding planner and designer, a small business coach / mentor, and a published author! You may be familiar with her event planning and design companies, Jubilee Events and Jubilee Events: Caribbean. Candice’s first business started out on a whim: she had a desire to plan and design beautiful events, but had no formal training in event planning or the business of weddings. Some how, some way, she developed an intuitive knack for both and in turn, learned a lot during my journey to where she is today. Candice is passionate about the experience she provide her clients, and has a love affair with designing gorgeous event spaces that her couples and their guests will always remember. She’s equally passionate about motivating, teaching, and helping other small businesses in this industry succeed. The wedding industry has grown so much over the past 9 years since she started, and with that growth comes a lot of competition! Candice’s work and voice can be seen in many publications, but most recently and most notably in a new inspirational coffee table book she co-authored entitled, The White Dress: in Color — Inspirations for the Modern Bride. Her favorite color is pink, there isn’t a ruffle she doesn’t love, she’s always over dressed, and she eloped and now lives in beautiful Barbados! Her Work has been Featured with: -Brides -Elle Decor -Martha Stewart Weddings -People Magazine -Glamour Magazine -Inside Weddings -The Knot IWWW.THESIGNATURECEO.COM -Style Me Pretty

EXPANDING YOUR BUSINESS INTO A NEW MARKET SMART OBJECTIVES: Scalingyourweddingindustryrelatedbusinesscanbe challenging—buthaveyoueverconsideredexpanding yourbusinessintomultiplemarkets?Thewedding industryhaschangeddramaticallyoverthepastfive years—rapidlybecomingalucrativeyetsaturated enterprise.Astheweddingindustrybroadens,it’s importanttothinkabouthowyourbusinesswillgrowin tandemwiththeindustryatlarge.Inthisglobalmarket, yourbusinessshouldbepreparedtoexpandbeyond whereyoustarted,offeringyouruniquelevelofservicein othercitiesandevencountries.ExpandingYourBusiness intoaNewMarketwillteachyouhowtoprepareyour businesstomoveorgrowintoanewmarketandwhyyou needtoconsiderscalingyourbusinessintoother locations. (3) Reasons Why you should consider Expanding Your Business into another Market (5) Tips on How to set up Your Business for Expansion into a New Market (3) Things I Learned in Launching a Sister Brand of My Company in another Country

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CRYSTAL BAILEY, ESQ. BUSINESS ETIQUETTE CONSULTANT

MY CAREER CRYSTAL L. Bailey, Esq. is an experienced business etiquette consultant who specializes in “netiquette”, where the internet and etiquette meet. As director of The Etiquette Institute of Washington, she is dedicated to helping business and young professionals improve their protocol, networking and dining etiquette skills. Recognized for her fresh approach, Crystal is called upon for her expertise by Fortune 500 companies and media outlets to include the BBC, CNN, Politico and U.S. News & World Report. Bailey received her formal etiquette training at Debrett’s of London and Etiquette à la Française of Montpellier. Expert on: -Etiquette -Social Media -Personal Development -Branding -Image/Self-Esteem -Presentation Skills Experience in: -Consulting -Law/Legal Crystal has been featured with: -BBC News -CNN -Yahoo! -New York Weddings -ABC News -Politico -US News & World Report “Internationally-trained and acclaimed etiquette consultant puts the “pro” in IWW W . T HofEThe S I GEtiquette NATUR E C E Oof. C OM protocol. Director Institute Washington.”

PUTTING THE "PRO" IN PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS ETIQUETTE SMART OBJECTIVES: What governs the expectation of Social Behavior? Customer Communication & Interaction; technology , email, texting, interaction, follow ups B2B Communication & Interaction; technology, email, texting, networking Networking Etiquette (introductions, engaging, and follow-up) Communication with Body Language How Professional Etiquette relates to Brand Image & Business Revenue How to keep that lasting positive impression How proper etiquette can give you a competitive edge over others who may not be using proper etiquette Separating personal and professional life

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MARCUS JOHNSON MUSICIAN • ENTREPRENEUR • PROFESSOR • AUTHOR • MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER

MY CAREER MARCUS Johnson is the consummate dreamer-doer. He believes that investing in the community and in one’s self is the best way to solve some of life’s most pressing questions: Why are we here? What is our purpose? In answering these questions for himself, Marcus has successfully navigated the realms of music, business, education, and entrepreneurship.

FOR THE LOVE OF SUCCESS SMART OBJECTIVES: Purpose Determination - The DEPELL Model: Through

Marcus spent his undergraduate years at Howard University and went on to earn his JD/MBA degree from Georgetown University. As a graduate student, he partnered with Black Entertainment Television (BET) founder and entrepreneur Robert L. Johnson to start Marimelj Entertainment Group. This entity later became Three Keys Music, an independent record label that produced over 25 albums by several internationally-known artists. As a musician and independent artist, Marcus has released 18 studio albums, garnered an NAACP Image Award nomination for Jazz Album of the Year, and has toured the world, performing at various music festivals and venues.

Mr. Johnson’s Dream, Environment, Plan, Execute,

An entrepreneur, Marcus is CEO and Founder of FLO (For the Love of) Brands, which houses his most recent venture, FLO Wine. USA Today recently included FLO Wine on its list of Top 10 Celebrity Wines. As a result of his business pursuits, Marcus was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration and currently serves as the Entrepreneur in Residence with the Greater Washington Urban League. He has had the opportunity to teach on business topics at Georgetown University’s Center for Professional Development, Bowie State University, and Elmira College. And has had the opportunity to be a TedX Speaker!

his academic, business, and community

Marcus’ first book titled For the Love Of will be published nationally next month that dives deeper into these life lessons he has learned while working to make his dreams a reality.

Hope: After many of Marcus’ talks, people mention that

Marcus speaks publicly on a range of topics, hosts a radio show, and regularly performs his original music on stages both domestic and abroad. Marcus resides in the Washington, D.C. area and is a proud father to his daughter Chase. IWWW.THESIGNATURECEO.COM

Listen, and Learn model, attendees will receive a structured approach to explore their purpose and the plan to achieve it. Inspiration Achievement: Mr. Johnson’s main emphasis is that “Anything I can do, you can do better!” Through a relaxed and informal discussion of achievements, Marcus guides individuals with the DEPELL Model helping them to see their “futureselves!” The destination vision is key to the development of a strong self concept and confidence. Individuals learn through the process that both are needed in order to fuel achievement. he gives them the permission to control their lives - to live for their own purpose.

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AKESHI AKINSEYE BEST SELLING AUTHOR • EVENT DESIGNER • EDUCATOR• PARTY PLANNER

MY CAREER AKESHI is the founder of Kesh Luxury Group. Her unique style and passion for transforming any space into lush and romantic settings has helped to establish her as a premier planner and event designer for clients all over the world. Her clientele includes celebrities and athletes. Akeshi is the author of the best-selling book, “The Art of Floral And Event Design.” Her positivity, keen eye, attention to detail and knack for perfection is what her clients love about her. She brings the art of creativity and personalization to every single event making her the best at what she does. Akeshi honors the individual styles of her clients and she continually strives to make every experience one to remember. Her dedication to supporting and sharing her knowledge to the industry initiated the idea for her floral and design workshop program, The Kesh Experience, a series of design masterclasses that offer mentorship and education to industry professionals at all levels. Akeshi has been featured in editorials and her work has been featured in many local and national wedding publications. She also speaks at seminars, tv segments and radio interviews.

THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE...A LUXURY STATE OF MIND SMART OBJECTIVES: Defining the word "LUXURY" How Luxury translates into your Business How Luxury translates into your Brand Defining the "EXPERIENCE" Understanding the Lifestyle and Language of the Customer Setting Client Expectations and Creating the Experience

Akeshi has been featured with: Inside Weddings Modern Luxury Brides Grace Ormonde Wedding Style ModWedding Party Slate And much more!

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MYRNA P. DARAMY SAVVY DIGITAL ANALYST â&#x20AC;˘ ENTREPRENEUR

MY CAREER MYRNA Plaisir Daramy is a technically savvy digital analyst who embodies the mind of a creative designer. With over 12 years of experience, her natural ability to clarify the blurred lines between technology application and spontaneous creativity is what makes her one of the most insightful digital marketing strategists today. With a Bachelors of Science degree in Architecture, and an MBA focused in Information Technology, Myrna has always had a keen eye for aligning style aesthetics with sound engineering principals.

BEHIND THE SCENES OF DIGITAL ANALYTICS...WHAT IT CAN TELL YOU ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS SMART OBJECTIVES: To understand what digital analytics is

In her earlier years, Myrna worked as a Senior Project Manager in the world of construction, where she juggled hundreds of project deliverables and maintained an impressive on-time completion ratio. Myrna sustained a pattern of success by creating innovative business processes to streamline her workflow and business processes, which in turn guaranteed product quality.

To understand the important role Google plays

While obtaining her MBA, Myrna recognized the paradigm shift where digital and social media were becoming mainstream and intuitively concluded that her skillsets would be best utilized by turning her focus towards Information Technology. This shift in her attention, and professional growth, lead her into the world of digital analytics by catering to known luxury brands like Mark Ingram Atelier, Say Yes To The Dress star Randy Fenoli, and fashion designer Anne Barge. She takes pride in knowing, believing in, and helping her clients to peel back the layers of their brand, tinker with the technology, and return to them an optimized site and digital strategy that performs better than ever before.

in order to determine your marketing strategy

In her new capacity as Cofounder and CEO of Mezzohead Media Corporation, she has assembled a team of like-minded individuals who are also as creative as the are analytical. Myrnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reputation as a Mezzohead, urged her colleagues to collaborate with her on projects like Your Style Army, SpitfireGirl, and Your Digital Stylists (YDS) where she is known as their not-so-secret SEO weapon. This CEO is leading the charge by catering to the digital marketing needs of any business that recognizes the importance of its online presence.

A pumped-up attitude ready to make moves that will

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To understand how to use the free tools Google provide To get a deeper understanding of what matters to you The importance of Google tools like Google Analytics and what valuable insight it provides A solid grasp of what SEO is A feeling of empowerment knowing that they are equipped with tools to make better decisions for the growth of their business online leverage your online presence

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EDGAR ZAMORA INTERNATIONAL DESIGNER • TRANSFORMER OF SPACES

MY CAREER

HOW TO EMPOWER TEAMS TO EMBRACE COLLABORATION

EDGAR Zamora is the founder and lead designer of the highly acclaimed Revelry Event Designers, the industry’s go-to event and interior design company specializing in designing and installing private, as well as corporate events worldwide. Famous for having an innovative and progressive design view, Edgar is a “Transformer of Spaces”.

SMART OBJECTIVES:

His firm provides fabric treatments for ceilings and walls, custom-designed table linens as well as furniture installations. The Revelry team has been working with the event industry’s most respected planners and producers for two decades; providing them complete decor packages for weddings, mitzvahs, film premieres, awards shows and private soirees. Edgar’s experience, creativity, passion and professionalism combine to provide his clients with a truly unique design perspective on each event. He and his team never fail to provide a memorable experience through artful detail and flawless orchestration—from concept to completion. An avid traveler, his personal explorations in Europe, South America and China provides a global perspective on design. His personal design style leans toward an eclectic mix of old world and modern high style. The son of a Spanish metal industrialist and a renowned Argentinian fashion model, his design sense is innate. Zamora fuses the disciplines of clothing, interior and color design, with architecture and an outstanding knowledge of fabric. He believes that interior and event design executed successfully; should either transport you to a specific location, culture, or mood, or it will, at the very least, reflect and fit within its surroundings. Edgar consistently provides seamless event design integrated, with extraordinary comfort and beauty, into his client’s private estates or luxury hotel properties. Zamora has provided services globally to venues such as Vaux Le Vicomte (France), and Villa D’ Este (Italy).”

RevelryEventDesignersisanexceptionalvisionaryteam thatcreatesthelookandfeelofeventsrangingfromthe AcademyAwardGovernor’sBallandGrammystothe DisneyHallandStaplesCenterGalaOpenings.Edgar Zamora’sdesignfirmisknownasLA’sgo-toeventand interiordesigncompany,specializingindesigningand installingprivateandcorporateeventsworldwide.At SignatureCEOConferenceMr.Zamorawillsharethe experiences,creativity,passionandprofessionalismthat hasallowedhimtoestablishRevelryastheleadingevent designfirmInternationally. Keeping Design Principles Innovative and Contemporary Establishing Brand Clarity from the Start Challenges and Problem Solving to Success Milestone Tips for Business Growth Gratitude as a Best Practice

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JAMIE KUTCHMAN WYNNE ENTREPRENEUR • TRENDSETTER • VISIONARY

MY CAREER JAMIE made the leap from corporate world to creative world after recognizing the need for boutique gifting services following her own 2012 wedding. After resigning spontaneously on a conference call, she utilized her extensive sales and marketing background, and jumped head first into building her business, Marigold & Grey, and hasn’t looked back. Marigold & Grey is an artisan welcome gift company based in the Washington, DC area. Their mission is simple. They want you to love what you gift and your guests giddy over what they receive. In order to make this happen, a whole lot of thought, imagination, planning, ribbon tying, tissue paper fluffing, and overall magic that goes on behind the scenes by Jamie & her team. Jamie spent a year dreaming up a business that would make the tedious welcome gift process feel like a piece of cake to her Clients while offering plenty of chic, unique, locally-inspired choices. But don’t let the fancy-schmancy website fool you. They are still a small business that thoughtfully and carefully prepares each order themselves, specifically with their Client and Client’s style in mind. When not designing gifts or encouraging other creatives, you’ll find her with her golf-smitten husband Jeff and two rescue pups, Lewis & Clarkie. She’s a true Virginia girl at heart. Jamie’s Work has been seen in: -Martha Stewart Weddings Magazine -Southern Weddings Magazine -Style Me Pretty -Aisle Society -The Knot -Washingtonian Bride & Groom Magazine -The School of Styling -100 Layer Cake -The Ruffled Blog -NBC News 4 IWWW.THESIGNATURECEO.COM

DE-MYSTIFYING SOCIAL MEDIA... LEVERAGING CONSISTENCY & CONNECTION TO CONVERT CLIENTS SMART OBJECTIVES: Havingbuiltherbusinessfromthegroundupusing socialmediaastheprimaryformofmarketingand advertising,Marigold&Greyowner/founderJamie KutchmanWynneencouragesotherbusinessownersto reallyfocusonthequalityofrelationshipsthatcanbe formedusingsocialmediaversussimplythenumberof followersonemayhave.Sheoffersupwaystobuild relationshipswiththeultimategoalofgivingone’s audienceagoodideaofwhatit’sliketoworkwiththem evenbeforetheprospectiveclientreachesouttoinquire. Whilemanypeoplethinkthatthereissomesortofsecret hackouttheretoquicklygrowone’ssocialmedia,inthe end,disciplinein6keyareasistheonlyREALingredient toachievingsocialmediasuccess.Ultimately,social mediasuccessshouldbebasedonhowwellitconverts clientsasopposedtofollowercount. How to understand the difference between Social Media Platforms Know You, Show You Have a Plan & Purpose It's Not All About You How to Ask Your Clients what they Thinks How to Use Personal Posts Strategically How to Get Excited about YOUR vs | 2 4 N Progress OMADIC PAGE | 17 comparing yourself to Others

ELANA WALKER CERTIFIED WEDDING PLANNER • CONSULTANT & MENTOR • SPEAKER • FOUNDER, SOUTHERN NOIR WEDDINGS

MY CAREER International Certified Wedding Planner, Wedding Designer, Mentor, Speaker, Mother of 2 sons, Daughter, Sister, Friend, & Animal Lover are just a few of the titles ELANA Walker is blessed to have. Currently residing in Raleigh, NC, but originally from Chicago, IL , Elana majored in fashion design at the Illinois Institute of Art in Chicago, which was where her love for beautification, style, and design was refined. She decided to become a certified wedding planner through the American Academy of Wedding Professionals. This education prepared her to become one of the top professional wedding planners in North Carolina. Elana is living proof that when there is a will, there is a way. She started her wedding planning business out of necessity. In 2009, at the end of a turbulent relationship, Elana found herself a single mother. Having an urgent need to be in control of her life, she decided to start on an entrepreneurial journey. Adamant to provide a comfortable life for her and her son, she opened a wedding planning company that would later lead her to a fulfilling and successful career. She is now the Creative Director and owner of Elana Walker Events, ; founder of Elana Walker Mentoring, and Founder of Southern Noir Weddings. When Elana adjusted her perspective and approach toward her work from focusing on wedding planning to focusing on the business side of wedding planning, her company benefited and grew exponentially. Elana's Accolades:

NBC – My Carolina Today CBS – MY Carolina Talk NBC News – Local Affiliate The Knot Brides Munaluchi Bride Black Bride Weddings Magazine

Best of The Knot, 2013-2017 Wedding Wires Couples Choice Award, 2012-2017 ISES Trinity Award 2016 ISES Best Wedding 75k -200k Budget ISES 2016 Event of the Year Essence Magazine Essence Bridal Bliss 2015

Southern Bride & Groom

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ELI TURNER INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER • STORYTELLER

MY CAREER Named one of the “Top Wedding Photographers” and “One to Watch” by Washingtonian Bride & Groom Magazine 2011-2016, ELI Turner is an expert photographer balancing technical savvy and artistic excellence. Eli has photographed exquisite weddings throughout the U.S. and internationally. His photography is a mix of artistry and contemporary photojournalism that evokes strong feelings of love, beauty, sincerity and playfulness. Through his candid, documentary style accented with elements of dramatic portraiture, he creates classic, timeless images. The Approach Eli is a master of his craft, and is dedicated to capturing natural and authentic moments without being obtrusive. It’s this laid-back approach – punctuated with doses of humor – that puts couples at ease in front of the camera and helps him blend seamlessly into his surroundings like a fellow guest or family member. Dynamic. Passionate. Meticulous. Lauded for his “unique eye,” Eli is skilled at making each bride and groom’s vision come to life. His quiet presence and relentless attention to detail make him a gifted storyteller, inspired by his surroundings and guided by the emotions of the day. From the first kiss to the last dance, Eli captures and transforms every detail and subtle moment into a love story that lasts a lifetime. The Artistry Eli unveiled Eli Turner Studios in 2010. With 15 years of experience as a freelance cinematographer and still photographer, he is a visual artist with a unique skill set: the mastery of lighting, composition and innovative cinematic techniques. Together, it makes for “the perfect canvas for capturing images that evoke emotion, magic and beauty.”

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MICHAEL DELTETTE THE LUXURY PARTY GURU • TOP DIRECTOR’S OF CATERING IN LUXURY HOTELS

MY CAREER MICHAEL Deltette is a renowned master planner of over-the-top Washington weddings and private parties for Washington’s elite community. With over 20 years of experience, Michael has been the Director of Sales & Catering, and some would say he is the key to platinum doors of Washington’s elite luxury hotel properties such as The Mandarin Oriental, The Park Hyatt, and The Watergate Hotel. His vision and meticulous attention to details, and providing a true luxury experience to his clients, is why everyone continues to come back to have him to solely be in charge of their events; he is beloved by his loyal clients who follow him from property to property. Michael was born and raised in the Philipines and attended Christian Brothers for college and then getting his Masters in Psychology and Management. A few short months after graduation, he decided to go back to school to be a chef, which was then assisted in development, when his family opened a restaurant which offered international cuisine like continental, Filipino, Asian and Spanish. He next travel led him to New York City where he attended The Culinary Institute of America. As a student at CIA, he learned from soup to nuts; working as wait staff, to learning the front of the house, how to be social on the floor, and being creative in the back of the house. Later he transitioned south to capturing a job at the Ritz Carlton (now the Fairfax) on Massachusetts Avenue in Washington, DC. After that, he moved onto Don Miguel Restaurant, where he started catering and planning events. After that, he spent time with local chef Robert Weidemer at the Watergate as the Banquet Chef. After a short-lived stint there, it was time for Michael to hit the front of the house, where he excelled at the Hyatt Capitol Hill and Capitol Dupont. But where he really found his sweet spot, was at the Capitol View Club. This was fine-dining, about 300 members, high-end clientele. He planned events, intimate dinners, private events like weddings, fundraisers. Michael stayed here for four years, then 9/11 happened and the high-end industry felt a huge hit.

Some of his career highlights include: Engaged Magazine’s Top Directors of Catering; Washingtonian Style Setter; Washington, DC Bespoke Club; Featured in Washingtonian Bride and Groom Magazine as an Industry Expert – ”The Party Guru”

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ADAM DONOVANGROVES LUXURY PLANNER • LISTED AS ONE OF VOGUE’S ULTIMATE WEDDING PLANNERS IN THE SOUTHEAST

MY CAREER ADAM Donovan-Groves first began working in the wedding industry in Atlanta, Georgia in 2002. After moving to Charlottesville, Virginia 11 years ago, Adam had the opportunity to continue working in the wedding industry as the Director of Weddings and Special Events at Keswick Hall, a Forbes 5-Star Rated Resort. While at Keswick Hall, Adam had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of planners, and primarily being the sole planner for many of the weddings at the resort, giving him the optimal hands-on educational experience about the industry. Once his family determined they had no desire to leave the Charlottesville area, Donovan-Groves Events went from dream to a reality. A reality that now has offices in Charlottesville, Washington, DC, and New York City. Adam’s lavish weddings and events have been published and featured with Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides.Com, Style Me Pretty, Carats and Cake, Virginia Living Magazine, Wedding Chicks, appearances on HGTV, Southern Living listed him as Top Wedding Planner, and recognized as Vogue’s Ultimate Wedding Planner List 2016 (one of six planners in the Southeast receiving this honor). When he’s not creating magical moments for his clients, Adam, and his husband of 17 years, find tranquility on their small family farm with their rescue dog, Gracie, just outside of Charlottesville, Virginia.

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KUNBI ODUBOGUN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, AISLE PERFECT • LEGAL EAGLE

MY CAREER KUNBI Odubogun is an Attorney at Edelstein & Grossman, a full-service law firm in New York. She is also the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Aisle Perfect & Aisle Perfect Living, an international wedding blog that provides elegant inspiration to engaged couples and their bridal party. Initially created as a planning diary for her own wedding, Aisle Perfect has blossomed into a top wedding planning resource for overwhelmed couples around the globe. A business Immigration attorney with a passion for startups, Kunbi graduated from Fordham University School of Law in 2010 and has a B.Sc. in Management and Leadership from the University of Kansas.

(8) LEGAL MISTAKES TO AVOID AS AN ENTREPRENEUR SMART OBJECTIVES: TBD TBD TBD

When she’s not Lawyering or Publishing, she spends her time watching Criminal Minds and Forensic Files, because life isn’t stressful enough.

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CHELSEA LAVERE ENTREPRENEUR • INFLUENCER • BLOGGER • PHOTOGRAPHER

MY CAREER Considered an enthusiastic entrepreneur in the wedding industry since 2009, CHELSEA LaVere started as the eyes and heart behind Bit of Ivory Photography and Orchestrated Stylized Shoots. She is now retired as a full-time wedding photographer and is currently the leading lady as Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Virginia’s #1 wedding blog, Tidewater and Tulle, as well as a Founding Co-Owner of Aisle Society, an innovative website and online wedding media collective of 30+ wedding blogs from all over the world. Through her publication career, she has worked with respected brands such as Sandals Resorts, Keurig, Minted, David’s Bridal, Etsy, and Pottery Barn, has spoken at The Special Event Conference, NACE Richmond, ISES Hampton Roads, and has appeared on Daytime TV Blue Ridge, HoneyBook, Southern Living Magazine, Travel Channel, and others. With experience in knowing the “start to finish” of a wedding, stylized photo shoot, and running a successful full-time small business, Chelsea is passionate about all sides of the industry and loves to share her expertise in helping her fellow wedding pros succeed and be stronger and happier small business owners. Launched in December 2013, Tidewater and Tulle is the online wedding and honeymoon publication for couples getting married in or around the southeastern coastal region of Virginia. Whether it is in the sands of Virginia Beach, on the cobblestone streets of historic Williamsburg, or in a rustic barn outside of Richmond, Tidewater and Tulle is the community for anyone with a Hampton Roads connection or a love for all things coastal.

GETTING FEATURED TO STAY RELEVANT SMART OBJECTIVES: “GettingFeaturedtoStayRelevant”willrefresh experiencedweddingoreventprofessionalsonthe importanceofgettingpublishedonlinetostayrelevant forpotentialandcurrentclients.Wewillgothroughthe newpublicationandsubmissiontrends,highlightthe advancedpurposesbehindinvestingcreativelyinyour business,andshareinsightonhowtoapproacheditors andmakethemsay“yes!”toyoursubmissionand expertise. Be educated on current publication and submission practices Be confident to elevate his/her business and set the

The blog’s signature colors of Pantone’s Grayed Jade and Dusty Blue and its logo represent the land (“Tidewater”) and the water (“Hampton Roads”) that make up our beautiful region.

design/coordination standard when it comes to talent

Using a 2 hours driving hours radius from the City of Hampton as a guideline, Tidewater and Tulle represents weddings, sessions, and wedding-related inspiration in Hampton Roads (Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Norfolk, Hampton, Newport News, Suffolk, Yorktown, Poquoson, and Williamsburg), Richmond, Emporia and surrounding areas, and the Eastern Shore in the beautiful coastal region of Virginia as well as the Outer Banks in North Carolina. IWWW.THESIGNATURECEO.COM

successfully.

and experience. Be prepared to submit to online publications Be inspired to restart his/her creative juices when it comes to showcasing what he/she does best on a larger online platform.

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GABRIELLE JORDAN KID TYCOON STAR • MENTOR • ENTREPRENEUR • AUTHOR • SPEAKER •

MY CAREER GABRIELLE Jordan has made a great deal of accomplishments, yet she knows that those accomplishments are only the beginning of her quest to leave a global impact in business, motivational speaking and publishing. With a list of recognitions under her belt, Gabrielle is creating tidal waves for her creativity and thought-provoking messages. Most recently, Gabrielle Jordan has been featured in INC. as 1 of 5 Entrepreneurial Kids Who Basically Won the Internet in 2015 and honored as a M.A.D. (Making A Difference) Girl where she was recognized by the First Lady, Michelle Obama during the 2015 Black Girls Rock Awards Show. And is now a TV Star – appearing on TLC’s Kid Tycoons airing on January 30, 2017. Gabrielle Jordan, now age 16, is the owner of Jewelz of Jordan, an upscale jewelry business, which she started at the age of 9. However, Gabrielle’s passion for business did not stop there. Gabrielle is the co-founder of the ExCEL Youth Mentoring Institute, helping other young entrepreneurs successfully create and launch businesses through entrepreneurial, leadership and personal development. Gabrielle Jordan has taken her experience in business and her passion for inspiring others to publish the nationally recognized and #1 Amazon Bestselling book, The Making of a Young Entrepreneur: A Kids Guide to Developing the Mind-Set for Success, which launched her platform as a sought-after speaker with accomplishments such as TEDx and keynoting events and conferences internationally. Gabrielle Jordan is quickly becoming a recognized name due to her features on several television and radio stations as well as news and online publications such as NPR, NBC, Fox News and BET to name a few. Gabrielle is currently a 11th grade home school student and her career goals include, but are not limited to becoming a gemologist, New York Times bestselling author and to continue her philanthropic endeavors.

DON’T BE A BYSTANDER IN THE WORLD OF BUSINESS: UNLEASH YOUR UNIQUE VALUE SMART OBJECTIVES: What makes you different makes you unique - what makes you unique, makes you valuable. One of the biggest challenges for entrepreneur is knowing, confidently, what sets you apart from others. Each of us has the ability to provide significant value to our circle of influence. Your colleagues and clients can benefit from the unique value you bring to the table. But are you bringing it? Gabrielle Jordan highlights the mindset techniques she used to launch her first business at age 9 which led her to become a six figure entrepreneur, #1 Bestselling Author, and International Speaker, all before her 14th birthday. Find out how to apply your unique value to become an industry leader. How to identify the covert mental barriers that restrict your growth. How to embrace your unique attributes to define your brand. How to distinguish yourself from your competition. How to confidently project your value.

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THANK YOU! YOUR SUPPORT & COMMITMENT TO THE CREATIVE COMMUNITY IS INVALUABLE. THE EXPERTISE & PASSION THAT YOU HAVE IS THE GREATEST ASSET THAT YOU POSSESS. CONTINUE TO EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS THROUGH EXPERIENCE BEYOND YOUR IMAGINATION & SHARE YOUR WISDOM WITH YOUR PEERS SO THAT WE CAN ALL GROW TOGETHER. LASTLY, THANK YOU FOR BELIEVING IN THE VALUE OF THE SIGNATURE CEO CONFERENCE! WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU IN 2018!!!! TARA MELVIN FOUNDER, THE SIGNATURE CEO CONFERENCE

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