2024 WFEA Conference Program

MIKE BRENNAN (2001)

(2001)

DOXTATER (2002)

(2015)

(2019) BETH KNOX (2019) SEATTLE CENTER (2019)

JERRY SCHMIDT (2020)

KARDONG (2021) ROBIN KELLEY (2021) BILL BURKE (2022)

CRAIG COOKE (2022) STAR MOSER (2022) MIKE PREBEZAC (2022)

Our Conference Host: Our Conference Host:

Martha Enson and Kevin Joyce have been at this game a long time. They co-founded an innovative theater company (UMO) on Vashon Island in 1988, and in 2003, started EnJoy Productions, one of the region’s busiest and most eclectic live event/entertainment companies.

WFEA is extremely pleased that Kevin is our conference host.

From festivals to corporate parties, non-profit fundraisers to team building trainings and icebreakers, everything they do is customized. Because it has to be. And every client deserves, and receives, EnJoy’s trademark intense focus on their needs, and their community’s culture. It’s all about telling their story.

“We find that it really matters to get the inside story - to really get to know them”, says Joyce, EnJoy’s Producing Director. “That way, we can tailor the scripting, the talent and the whole vibe to meet them where they are, and then TAKE them somewhere else!”

At this year’s Conference, EnJoy will present (Wed afternoon) on “Engagement: Why Interactivity Matters”. It’s a chance for them to talk to event professionals about their take on how events can really step up their game - right when attendees need it the most.

The EnJoy team is finding that in a post-COVID world, folks are still feeling isolated, and reluctant to engage. Event producers and presenters are needing to provide attendees new levels of connection that are interesting, fun, and make people want to be there, and want to come back.

“It’s almost as if we have to re-learn how to play”, says Enson, EnJoy’s Artistic Director. “We all knew how to connect and engage with others when we were in the playground, as kids. We’re working with clients to get back to the playground. And people are responding, in a big way!”

Not everyone wants the same thing, of course. People have different levels of interest, and want different kinds of engagement. But people are hungry for fun, entertainment...and connection. They don’t want to just sit back and listen. They want their actions to be relevant and beneficial to their personal goals - and they want to be involved.

For EnJoy, WFEA is a great context to have this conversation with other event professionals. How do we employ interactivity and new kinds of engagement to help people to bond in an activity? How might we create opportunities for using entertainment as metaphor, to illuminate event themes and important community relationships?

As we all recover our sea legs in the realm of live events, EnJoy Productions, like so many other WFEA members, are looking to offer the right balance between the opportunity to participate, and the freedom to choose just how much participation an individual wants. In the end, it’s all about creating an experience where people feel something positive, and engaged in community.

After 35 years, EnJoy seems to have a secret sauce. And they’re feeling right at home - and very engaged - in the WFEA community!

Conference App Conference App

Take the WFEA Conference with you on your devices! Scan the QR code for the up to date confeence schedule, vendor information and speaker bios

Hyatt Regency Map Hyatt Regency Map

Regency Ballroom & Cedar (A&B) located on the 2nd floor

Juniper, Laurel & Larch Rooms located on the 3rd floor

Conference Conference Schedule Schedule

Shanna Paxton Photography

Luminary Procession of the Species, Olympia

Wednesday, October 30

Revenue Accelerator: Proven Tactics to Skyrocket Your Food, Beverage and Merch Sales

Larch Room (3rd Floor)

Join Brenton Webster, CEO of FastBar Technologies, for an insider’s guide to unlocking untapped revenue at your events. With nearly two decades of experience in events and technology, Brenton will share actionable strategies that have helped over 300 events in the past year alone, boosting their food, beverage and merchandise sales. Discover how to sidestep common pitfalls that can cost events hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost revenue and learn practical, battle-tested techniques that could double your earnings. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your event’s sales performance walk away with a proven toolkit for success.

Brenton Webster, CEO of FastBar Technologies

WFEA Awards Dinner and Auction

Presented by U-Cool Refrigeration

5:15 PM

Regency Ballroom 2nd Floor

Help us recognize the best in our industry, as we welcome new inductees into the WFEA Hall of Fame presented by Grant Event Rentals, the State’s Volunteer of the Year presented by Stages Northwest and the winners of the Summit Awards, presented by Honey Bucket. Also recognized will be the next graduates of the WFEA Certification Program presented by Ticket Tomato, the Event of the Year Presented by Alexander Party Rentals, the Event of the Organizer sponsored by Cort Party Rentals and the Event Supporter of the Year sponsored by Morgan Sound, the Event Producer of the Year sponsored by Green Latrine, and the Rising Star Award sponsored by Bellevue Lighting. WFEA

Presented by: Hospitality Suite –Networking After Hours

8:00 – 10:00 P.M. Suite Room #2412

Thursday, October 31

THURSDAY OPENING SESSION

Breakout Sessions

8:45 – 9:30 A.M.

Event Security, Part I: Tabletop Mock Training Exercises

Larch Room (3rd Floor)

Tabletop exercises (TTX) are a vital component of emergency preparedness, providing a structured yet informal environment for participants to discuss their roles and responses to hypothetical emergency scenarios. These exercises are designed to enhance understanding, identify procedural gaps, and improve coordination among participants, which typically include emergency managers, first responders, event managers, and other critical personnel. By simulating a variety of crisis situations, from natural disasters to security breaches, participants can evaluate and refine their emergency plans in a low-stress setting. This proactive approach is crucial for effective disaster recovery and crisis management, ensuring that when an actual emergency occurs, all parties are well-equipped to respond swiftly and effectively, minimizing the impact and facilitating a quicker return to normalcy.

Frank Sebastian, Emergency Management Group

Standout-ness: How to Separate Yourself From the Clutter and Be a Benefit to Your Sponsors

Laurel Room (3rd Floor)

This session is both for you as a professional and for your festival or event. You will learn ideas on how to be seen as leader and expert in your field and community, as well as how to have your festival or event standout from the 1,000’s of festivals taking place annually. Learn how the National Lentil Festival was in the New York and L.A. Times in its second year of existence in 1990 and how the Tiny Town of Bucoda, Washington and their first year Boo-Coda Spook-Tacular Festival received an estimated $100,000 of earned media in 2018, including a 2 minute segment on King5 News.

George Sharp, Thurston County Economic Development Council

Insider Tips on The Important Parts of an Event’s Operations Plan

Cedar B Room (2nd Floor)

Many events that we attend seem chaotic, and most of the time that’s due to a poor operations plan. Learn about the importance of proper communications systems, and how to develop relationships with your vendors, who are extremely important to the success of your event.

Alby Allen, Ballard SeafoodFest, Winthrop Rhythm & Blues

Best Practices for Event Budgeting, Part I

Cedar A Room (2nd Floor

Learn about a proforma budget template, financial scenarios and assumptions.

Chris Ortolano, Stages Northwest

Legal Issues for Festivals and Events

Juniper Room (3rd Floor)

This session will cover many legal aspects of our industry, including contracts, intellectual property, trademarks and copyrights, the non-profit private corporation act of 2022 and liability issues Win Martin, David Lawson, Perkins Coie

Breakout Sessions

9:45 – 10:30 A.M.

Best Practices for Event Budgeting, Part II

Cedar A Room (2nd Floor)

During the conclusion of this session, teams will work together and report back on a fictitious budget

Chris Ortolano, Stages Northwest

Your

Story is a Song

Laurel Room (3rd Floor)

All of us want people to be excited about the things we present. In a world awash in content, how do you make your story stand out? It’s not what you think. Regardless of whether you are talking to fans, grantors, or sponsors, buzz words don’t work. In this hands-on workshop you will get to practice how to think about your story like a songwriter. A songwriter has a very limited amount of time and words to create a compelling story aimed at a connection that sticks. Every word costs $1000. How are you going to spend your stash?

Patrice O'Neill, Wintergrass

Finding Success in a Small Market – No Excuses, Only Opportunity

Juniper Room (3rd Floor)

Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of staging events in a small market. Your staff may be smaller, but it’s easier to make personal connections. Don’t get caught in the trap of doing everything from your office – in person visits make things happen more often than keystrokes.

Sacha Sanguinetti, Birch Bay Chamber

Part II – Event Security Mock Table Top Training

Larch Room (3rd Floor)

Continued from 9:00 session.

Frank Sebastian, Emergency Management Group

Thursday, October 31

Breakout Sessions

9:45 – 10:30 A.M.

Accelerating Events with AI: Practical Applications

Cedar B Room (2nd Floor)

A cross-industry panel of experts will delve into the potential (positive and negative) of AI in the event industry. Discover how AI-driven solutions are revolutionizing event planning, enhancing attendee experiences, and streamlining operations. Gain valuable insights from real-world examples, and engage with industry professionals as they share their experiences and answer your questions. This session will include Q&A with panelists, offering valuable insights for anyone interested in leveraging AI.

Joe Muharsky, Teamatorium; Eric Corning, WFEA Board Member; Amy Maxwell, Ticket Tomato; Shana Casey, Geek Girl NW; Jackie Wood Baker, Sparkwood Events

Breakout Sessions

10:45 – 11:30 A.M.

The Future of Festivals: Navigating Emerging Technologies

Cedar B Room (2nd Floor)

This session explores the future of festivals and events in light of emerging technologies. We'll explore how technology advancements, including AI, robotics, VR/AR, and energy are shaping the industry, discussing both the opportunities they present and the challenges they bring. The session will conclude with a Q&A segment, providing a platform to address questions and concerns about these technological advancements and their potential impact on the events industry.

Joe Muharsky, Teamatorium, Eric Corning, WFEA Board Member, Amy Maxwell, Ticket Tomato; Jackie Wood Baker, Sparkwood Events

Washington’s Statewide Support for Festivals and Events

Cedar A Room (2nd Floor)

Karen Hanan has fought for funds to support the arts as long as she has been the director of ArtsWa. Learn what’s in store for events in the new year, including grant opportunities.

Karen Hanan, Washington State Arts Commission

Increase Profits Through Your Customer Experience: When Your Customers "Trust in the Process," You'll Become the Only Option

Laurel Room (3rd Floor)

In today’s competitive market, a standout customer experience is more than just good service—it’s a powerful driver of profitability. This session will explore how building trust through consistency and transparency, creating a seamless omnichannel experience, and personalizing interactions can transform satisfied customers into loyal advocates. By mastering these key strategies, you’ll not only increase customer satisfaction but also position your business as the go-to choice in your industry.

Kevin Nash, Bellevue Lighting

Funding Your Event

Juniper Room (3rd Floor)

Fundraising is a vital part of keeping your non-profit event alive. Learn more about development and marketing strategies that help you and your organization stand out amongst the clutter whether it be with your donors or other grant programs.

Natalie Maitland, Fort Worden Hospitality

Part III – Event Security Mock Table Top Training

Larch Room (3rd Floor)

Continued from 9:00 and 10:00 sessions Frank Sebastian, Emergency Management Group

THURSDAY CLOSING SESSION: AN ALL-STAR

LINEUP

11:30 a.m - 1:00 p.m.

Regency Ballroom (2nd Floor)

Best Practices for Managing Music

Hear from all sides during this session – from legendary artists, a legal expert, and talent sellers and buyers. Learn how you can provide the best experience for your musicians and audience.

Bonnie Lackey, Alexander Party Rental, moderator

Recording artists Merrilee Rush (“Angel in the Morning”)

Billy Mac, band director for Rush and author of “My Oh My: The Dave Niehaus Story

Doug Heath, lead guitar player for Paul Revere and the Raiders

Attorney Jim Varnell, whose clients include Garth Brooks

Kell Houston, Houston Productions

Jon Stone, Jon Stone Consulting.

Faculty Faculty

Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

Marc Abshire, Port Angeles Regional Chamber of Commerce

Marc grew up in Port Townsend and attended the U.S. Air Force Academy on a nomination from Senator “Scoop” Jackson. After graduation from the Academy, he later received a master’s degree in English Literature from the University of Colorado - Boulder. His U.S. Air Force career included serving four years in Italy with NATO and, prior to that, was the Operations Officer at the Air Force Western Launch Range in California. His last assignment was in the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. as the Speechwriter to Secretary of the Air Force Whit Peters, under the Clinton Administration, and Secretary of the Air Force James Roche, under the Bush Administration. Marc retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the Air Force in 2002, and then spent several years as a corporate marketing and communications executive with a variety of large corporations in Washington, DC. His last position in DC, prior to moving back to the Olympic Peninsula in 2014, was Vice President of Communications for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. director@portangeles.org

Alby Allen, Ballard SeafoodFest, Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival

Alby is the Operations Manager at Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival and a producer of the Ballard Seafood Festival responsible for budget management, equipment rentals. city government liaise, contract hiring, timeline from load in to cleanup. albyseafoodfestprod@gmail.com

Kim Ashworth, Vice President & CFO, Ashworth Awards

Kim Ashworth is a dynamic leader, athlete, and visionary who serves as the Vice President and CFO of Ashworth Awards. With a strong background in business ownership and operations, she has successfully spearheaded sustainability initiatives within the company, continuously working to reduce its carbon footprint and adapt to an evolving global market.

A dedicated athlete, Kim has completed 19 Boston Marathons and is a 6-time Ironman finisher. Her drive extends beyond personal achievements—she is passionate about enhancing the experience of event directors who work with her company, ensuring that efficiency and global impact remain at the forefront of Ashworth Awards' mission. kim@ashworthawards.com

Paula Beadle, Sponsorship Marketing Association

Paula Beadle is a strategic and enthusiastic trailblazer, with decades of marketing and sales experience in sponsorship, advertising, branding, sports, event and entertainment marketing. Paula began consulting following the financial services sector meltdown in 2008. After 5 years, she charted a new course by officially launching Caravel Marketing - a consulting firm specializing in partnership marketing, revenue development and strategic planning. Caravel has been granted the good fortune to work with organizations including: The Special Olympics 2018 USA Games, Seattle Center, Washington State Fair, Washington Department of Transportation, Fred Hutch Obliteride, University of Washington and admired companies such as Alaska Airlines, T-Mobile, Starbucks, Amazon and Microsoft. Paula is a results-driven leader with an established record of increasing revenue and improving performance. She is known for developing smart strategies, increasing value, connecting the right partners, and successfully coaching sales teams, executives and boards to achieve their goals. She has facilitated countless strategic planning, creative thinking and sales training sessions. paula@sponsorshipassociation.com

David Blandford, State of Washington Tourism (SWT)

David is Executive Director of State of Washington Tourism. Previously as Senior Vice President, Public Affairs of Visitor Seattle, he oversaw public policy, industry advocacy, government relations, crisis communications and strategic communications. His career in tourism began with statewide travel promotion, running press trips throughout Washington and working closely with the state tourism office on destination PR programs. David was previously President of the Puget Sound Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America and served on the board of directors of the Society of American Travel Writers. david@stateofwatourism.com

Alby Allen

Marc Abshire

Kim Ashworth

Paula Beadle

David Blandford

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

Ben Braudrick, City of Port Angeles

Ben Braudrick is currently Planning Supervisor at the City of Port Angeles and is an extremely talented professional that can tackle and complete many diverse projects within Urban, Regional, Environmental, and Landscape planning and design with great accomplishment. Braudrick also works with the Lodging Tax Fund in Port Angeles. Bbraudri@cityofpa.us

Shana Casey, Geek Girl NW

Who Am I? A Creative Marketing Maverick with a Flair for the Extraordinary. I'm at the forefront of marketing innovation, currently leading the charge at Master Trader and turning complex trading concepts into engaging experiences. As the Marketing Director at Interrobang Compass, I craft memorable themed cruises that blend adventure with luxury. I also bring historical festivities to life as the Marketing Director for Wandering in Time, producing large events & festivals, merging cultural richness with modern vibrancy. At Rainier Foot & Ankle Associates, I merge healthcare with empathetic communication, ensuring our marketing steps are always forward-thinking.

Embracing remote work, I thrive in creating impactful work from my home office. There is a shortage of people who still believe that good work speaks for itself and I pride myself in being one of those people.

Let's connect and make the professional world a brighter, more engaging place!

Eric Corning, WFEA Board Member

With over 25 years experience, Eric Corning has produced high-profile, public events for Seattle and the greater Puget Sound Region. Eric first joined Seafair as a summer intern in 1993 and quickly became a force in the events community. He helped produce over 20 Seafair Festivals including the Seafair Summer 4th Fireworks Show, the Seafair Torchlight Parade, and Seafair Weekend featuring the US Navy Blue Angels. He was also a leader producing the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games and the 2014 Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl Victory Parade. A graduate of the University of Washington, Eric his wife Kelli live in Shoreline, WA. eric.corning@gmail.com

Cari Dixon, Chief Growth Officer, Washington State Fair Events Center

With over 20 years of experience in nonprofits and live events, Cari Dixon has honed the art of leading teams, building partnerships, and juggling a million tasks (without trying to drop any!). Originally from sunny Southern California but now calling Sumner, Washington home with her husband and two daughters, Cari specializes in partnerships, managing deals ranging from $500 to $5 million. She firmly believes there’s always something to learn and opportunities exist in the most unique places—from the boardroom table, coordinating large-scale live vents, or making new connections. Known for turning challenges into opportunities, she empowers teams, engages communities, and brings energy to even the most serious strategic meetings. Cari likes to take her fun seriously! carid@thefair.com

Nick Dodds, International Festivals & Events

Nick Dodds is a leading UK-based expert on cultural venues, the performing arts, festivals and major events with over 30 years’ experience as a consultant, chief executive, COO and leader in both the commercial and public sectors. He specialises in strategic planning, governance and organisational development, business planning and programme design for venues and festivals internationally.

Nick was Chief Executive of Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival for eight years, responsible for turning it into the south coast’s most successful arts, entertainment and conference venue. He was seconded to the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games, as chief operating officer of the London 2012 Festival, the UK’s largest ever cultural celebration attracting an audience of 20m. He was Managing Director of the Edinburgh International Festival, the world’s greatest cultural celebration, for ten years where he conceived, funded and realised The Hub, Edinburgh’s Festival Centre. nick.dodds@feiuk.com

Shana Casey

Ben Braudrick

Eric Corning Cari Dixon Nick Dodds

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

Sean Douglas, City of Vancouver

Sean has worked for the City of Vancouver for over fifteen years and currently serves as the Special Event Permitting Manager in the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department. He manages the City of Vancouver’s “Special Event Review Team” consisting of various departments, agencies and stake holders impacted by special events and helps to facilitate organizers through the permitting process. In 2024, the City of Vancouver permitted over one hundred events and produced or partnered in over thirty events including Juneteenth, Dia de Muertos and the 3rd Annual Vancouver Arts and Music Festival. Sean.Douglas@cityofvancouver.us

David Doxtater, The Workshop

David Doxtater founded The Workshop in 1997 with a vision for inspiring people to connect with new ideas, celebrate achievement, and participate in making our world a better place. Following this vision, The Workshop has produced hundreds of events, concerts, galas, festivals and community celebrations that strive to build stronger engaged community. Concurrent to this work, David has also served as Director of Events at the University of Washington, overseeing hosted experiences for offices of Advancement and the President; and also served Executive Director for the Tacoma Tall Ships Festival. David has been very busy. Prior to The Workshop, he began his career as a "One Reel Vaudeville" pioneer helping create the Bumbershoot Arts Festival and building it into a world-class multi-million dollar entertainment brand. During this time, he also developed the iconic "Summer Nights at the Pier" concert destination, as well as Seattle's annual 4th of July Fireworks show on Lake Union. doxtater@workshopevents.com

Kristi Ellefson, WaFd Bank

Kristi Ellefson is a seasoned public relations and marketing professional, helping brands reimagine their identities, create alignments with strategic key partners, increase social impact and connect with target audiences. Working with professional and college sports teams, events, festivals, and community partners, she has enabled brands to forge win-win relationships delivering on KPIs and increasing reach, ROI, engagement, brand affinity, and community impact. kristi.ellefson@wafd.com

H. Stuart Elway, Ph.D, Crosscut/Elway Poll Director

Stuart Elway, has been measuring and analyzing public opinion since 1975, directing hundreds of research projects locally and around the country for large and small businesses, associations, non-profits, foundations, public agencies from federal to local, and media outlets. He directed the Seattle Times Washington Poll from 1984-2000 and started The Elway Poll in 1992, which became the Crosscut. Elway|Poll in 2018, the only on-going, non-partisan analysis of public opinion in Washington state. Elway has been consistently rated among the top pollsters in the country, including two recent election cycles when it was one of only six pollsters in the country with an “A+” rating from fivethirtyeight.com. In addition to being regularly quoted in Northwest media, Elway has appeared on every television network and been quoted in nearly every major newspaper in the country.

Deci Evans, Kind + Co Events, LLC

Kind + Co Events, a Seattle-based event management company, is run by owner Deci Evans. Look no further than kind + coevents if you're organizing neighborhood celebrations, corporate events, or extraordinary fundraising events. The group under Deci Evans specializes in adding a surprise factor to all kinds of events. Creating connections and establishing a sense of community is what Kind + Co Events enjoy doing the most. They think that a successful event is directly tied to the experience of the guests. They prioritize quality over quantity and concentrate on offering great event management, event design, and event production services. deciten@gmail.com

Audrey Fan, Fan Events

In case you have not met Audrey Fan, Audrey is a 30-year veteran of the hospitality industry, having started in sales & marketing at hotels such as Paramount Hotel and Grand Hyatt Seattle. She has marketed the convention centers and all Seattle hotels and venues through Visit Seattle as the organization’s Corporate Account Director where she also negotiated a multi-year agreement with a large software company. For the past ten years, she has created, produced, and managed street festivals, community events, conventions for 20,000 people, exhibits, incentive programs both national and international, choreography and execution of FlashMobs, and a host of other engagements that maximized her diverse creative and logistical skills and experience. In addition, she has managed onsite logistics for high level executives and talent at special events such as Super Bowls and major international sporting events. audreyrfan@gmail.com

David Doxtater

Sean Douglas Kristi Ellefson H. Stuart Elway Deci Evans

Audrey Fan

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

Susan Freeburg

Karen Foster, KF Curates

Karen Foster Loni Greninger Karen Hanan Doug Heath

I’m Karen Foster. Pacific Northwest native of Black and Caribbean heritage, an HBCU graduate, and a community connector. Created with a heart to serve, I am a champion for change, creating equitable spaces for all historically excluded communities.

Using my God-given gifts, as Founder and Experience Curator of KF Curates. I help businesses and organizations move from ideation to execution. As a thought partner, I collaborate with clients to bring their purposeful event vision to life through strategy, coordinating logistics, production, and day of event management. karendfoster30@gmail.com

Susan Freeburg, Special Events, City of Bellevue

Susan Freeburg, Chair at the Special Events Committee Office for the City of Bellevue. The committee is responsible for reviewing special event applications and for setting conditions for the events, while balancing the City’s obligation to protect public health and safety. sfreeburg@bellevuewa.gov

Loni Greninger, Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe

Loni Grinnell-Greninger (“yúčciʔə”) was appointed to Tribal Vice Chair in January 2020, and elected in November 2020. She graduated with her Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Pacific Lutheran University in 2012, and her Masters of Public Administration with an emphasis in Tribal Governance from The Evergreen State College in 2016. Her professional experience includes four years of working with the Washington State Department of Social & Health Services (DSHS) as an Office of Indian Policy Regional Manager, and then as a Statewide Tribal Liaison. Both positions led to help create systems and policy that increases access to state services for American Indians and Alaska Natives. Additionally, another role was to educate state workers in the government-to-government relationship that the State has with its Federally Recognized Tribes. In 2017, her Tribe called her home to serve her people within the Social & Community Services Department. She currently serves as the Department’s Director. Loni continues to partner with the State and local governments in the overall work to benefit Washington’s Tribal Nations. She currently sits on the Governor’s Oversight Board for the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, is Chair to the Washington State DSHS Indian Policy Advisory Committee, and participates in local workgroups to further education and resources between the State and Tribe. Loni also received her Klallam Language Certification, in June 2019, to bring the Klallam language back to Jamestown. lgreninger@jamestowntribe.org

Karen Hanan, Washington State Arts Commission, member of Governor’s cabinet

Karen Hanan is a senior executive with 25+ years of success providing leadership and managerial direction to state and regional arts service and presenting organizations. She was appointed Executive Director of ArtsWA (Washington State Arts Commission) by Governor Jay Inslee in 2014. As the agency’s head, Karen’s role is to grow the organization’s capacity, services and potential for positively impacting the arts and cultural fields, arts in education, the creative economy and the State. Previously, Karen was Executive Director of Arts Northwest, the regional service organization for performing arts organizations, arts presenters, artists, agents and associated organizations. During her tenure there, Karen was the driving force in re-positioning the non-profit for growth, artistic vitality, profitability and a commitment to mission. She achieved this through effective planning, vision, partnership building and operational savvy. Karen oversaw the doubling of the organization’s membership and its budget. Prior to her tenure with Arts Northwest, Karen was the founder and Executive Director of the Juan de Fuca Festival of the Arts. She is a well-respected member of a number of industry organizations, and sits on several Boards of Directors. She enjoys opportunities to be a speaker, panelist or event participant where the focus is an arts-related topic, or the creative economy. karen.hanan@arts.wa.gov

Doug Heath, lead guitar player for Paul Revere and the Raiders

Doug Heath, lead guitar player for Paul Revere and the Raiders for 40+ years will share his experience of performing at many festivals, concerts and fundraising events. Tours included stops at Disneyworld, the Washington DC Ride to the Wall fundraiser for Vietnam Vets, Sturgis Motorcycle Ride and thousands of performances throughout the world. We might even be able to get him to talk about the festival where most of the audience wasn't wearing clothes.

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

Lorie Hoffman, Creative Economy Manager, City of Bellevue

Lorie Hoffman joined the City of Bellevue in 2021. Her work as the Arts & Creative Economy Manager includes supporting arts and culture programs that sustain and grow Bellevue’s artistic and creative capacity, building on Bellevue’s position as the arts and culture center of the Eastside. Before joining the team at Bellevue, Lorie was the Executive Director of ShoreLake Arts, and ran several commercial and academic art galleries. Lorie holds a Master of Fine Arts in Printmaking from Montana State University with a B.A in Business Marketing and a B.S. in Media and Theater Arts. Originally from Montana, Lorie enjoys the outdoors and engaging in agrotourism...bring on the fall family farms!

LHoffman@bellevuewa.gov

Kell Houston, Owner/President, Houston Productions, LLC

Kell Houston is the Owner/President of Houston Productions, with offices in Minneapolis and Seattle, HOUSTON PRODUCTIONS is a proven industry leader in casino entertainment buying and consulting.

In 2012, 2014, 2016 & 2018, Kell was named “Casino Buyer of the Year” by the International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) in Nashville. In 2019 and 2020, Kell was a finalist for the Academy of Country Music (ACM) Award – Don Romeo Talent Buyer of the Year.

Houston has worked in all aspects of the entertainment industry In addition, he has chaired entertainment seminars and workshops for IEBA, NIGA, OIGA, WIGA, GPIGA, Raving Consulting, Pollstar, Western Fairs, International Association of Fairs and Expositions, Billboard magazine, The Aboriginal Music Program, Event Solutions International, the Special Event and the National Association of Campus Activities. kell@houstonproductions.net

Brad Jones, Visit Bellevue

With over 28 years experience as an Executive Director / CEO of Destination Management Organizations Brad provides oversight and guidance to Visit Bellevue. Current Chairman of Washington Society of DMO's, Vice Chair of State of Washington Tourism, and is active on many local civic and community boards and industry affiliated groups. Father, Dad, known as the hockey guy from the Michigan & Minnesota and lover of all-things wilderness and outdoors. BJones@visitbellevuewa.com

Dr. Joshua Jones, Providence

Dr. Joshua Jones is a forensic psychiatrist with expertise in a wide range on behavioral health topics. Dr. Jones graduated from the University of Washington School of Medicine, completed psychiatric residency at the University of Vermont and forensic psychiatric fellowship at the University of Rochester. He is also the president of the board of the Port Angeles Marathon Association. Dr. Jones is proud to have served as a medical officer in the US Army.

Kevin Joyce, EnJoy Productions

Kevin is Producing Director of EnJoy and oversees EnJoy’s unique approach to auctions, meetings and communication training. He is an actor, musician, auctioneer, facilitator and trainer, as well as a student of religion, comedy and neuroscience. Known for his humor, improvisation, original music and characters, Kevin brings EnJoy’s unique event hosting approach to life in collaboration with partner Martha Enson.

Kevin has hosted hundreds of events for corporations and associations, and auctioneered for over 500 regional and national non-profits, in the process becoming one of the most popular and sought-after fundraising hosts in the Pacific Northwest. kevin@en-joyproductions.com

Kell Houston

Lorie Hoffman Brad Jones Dr. Joshua Jones Kevin Joyce

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

at Amazon

Melissa is an event industry veteran, having worked in the field for over two decades. She specializes in storytelling and marketing, and has experience in the corporate, tech, sports, events, hospitality, tourism and non-profit sectors. Melissa has created sales and marketing campaigns and developed event strategies for various companies, including: Microsoft, Seafair, the University of Phoenix Stadium (Arizona Cardinals) + CenturyLink Field (formerly Qwest Field & Event Center, Seattle Seahawks), Global Spectrum, Tacoma Rainiers, Seattle's Chinatown International District, Village Theatre, various film productions and several Seattle-area restaurant/event venues, amongst others. Melissa has served in several leadership roles within the event industry, and specifically the International Live Events Association (ILEA), including: International Board of Governors, International Education Council Chair, Vice President of the Western Region, founding member of the Arizona chapter, President of the Seattle chapter. Currently, she is serving as the Secretary/Treasurer on the Executive Committee of the Board of Governors. In 2008 she earned the Certified Special Event Professional designation, the hallmark of professional achievement in the industry. In 2019 she was inducted into the ILEA Seattle Hall of Fame. melissa.jurcan@compass-usa.com

Beth Knox, Seattle Sports Commission

Beth has produced large-scale, special events for over 30 years as a producer and consultant in the events, sports and live entertainment industry. As president of the Seattle Sports Commission, she leads efforts to attract and host premier sporting events that shape the Puget Sound region, while providing valuable support to our professional and collegiate sports community. Beth has held leadership roles with Seattle’s 2018 Special Olympics USA Games, Seafair, Bumbershoot, Summer Nights at the Pier concerts, Teatro ZinZanni and more.

During her time with Seafair, Beth helped bring the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon to Seattle and position the regional festival as a powerhouse in the community. She resurrected the City’s Fourth of July fireworks show in 2013, produced the Seahawks Super Bowl Victory Parade in 2014, and the Sounders FC 2016 and 2019 MLS Championship Cup March and Rally. Seattle is now looking forward to hosting the 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Regionals and MLB All-Star Game, and the FIFA World Cup in 2026. beth@seattlesports.org

Bonnie Lackey, Alexander Party Rentals

For more than 30 years as President and co-owner of Lackey Sound and Light, Inc. she provided sound, lighting and staging throughout the United States and Canada for artists such as Willie Nelson, Three Dog Night, Reba McEntire, Lionel Richie and every president of the United States from Gerald Ford to Barack Obama and of course Merrilee Rush and Paul Revere and the Raiders for festivals, fairs and fundraising events. bonnie@alexanderpartyrentals.com

Trevor Lane

Trevor C Lane is a member of the Washington Events and Festival Association (WEFA). He is also an assistant professor and the director of community and economic development with WSU Extension. With almost 20 years of higher education experience, Professor Lane also has more than 15 years' experience planning events, as well as working in the music and festival industry. Professor Lane's research and instruction focuses on agritourism, small business, and entrepreneurialism, as well as working with public or elected officials to develop public policy and other special projects. Professor Lane bridges agriculture or business with technology and progressive knowledge advancement. Work with agritourism at a local level in Washington has resulted in an agritourism video that won a State award from the Washington Extension and Specialists Association (WEASA) and a Regional award from the National Association of Country Agricultural Agents (NACAA). trevor.lane@wsu.edu

David Lawson represents foundations, hospital and medical research organizations, trade associations, universities, social service providers, and businesses, helping them find innovative ways to benefit their communities more effectively. His knowledge encompasses a variety of topics relating to federal tax exemption, nonprofit governance, charitable trust laws, and lobbying and issue advocacy.

David has completed dozens of complex transactions, from spinoffs of major programs to multiparty mergers to hospital joint ventures, and often advises nonprofit boards facing difficult situations. For more than a decade, he has engaged productively with the federal and state regulators that supervise nonprofits, including the successful resolution of significant Internal Revenue Service examinations and attorney general investigations. DLawson@perkinscoie.com

Beth Knox

Melissa Jurcan Bonnie Lackey Trevor Lane

David Lawson

David Lawson, Perkins Coie

Melissa Jurcan, Compass One

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

Beth Lehman, Washington State Liquor & Cannabis Control Board

I have been with the WSLCB for 16+ years and working with events around the state for at least 15 of those. I manage a team of 18 that approve all of the special occasion licenses and catered events. Prior to working with the WSLCB I worked in the bar and restaurant industry for 25 years so I was able to bring my experience and perspective to those I now help to regulate. beth.lehman@lcb.wa.gov

Amy Lindsey, Riverfront Spokane

Amy is a programming and marketing specialist with more than fifteen years of experience with strategic partnerships, events, and brand management. As Assistant Director of Marketing for Denver Arts & Venues, she managed sponsorship sales, marketing and venue utilization initiatives for city-owned and operated arts and entertainment facilities. She conceived, launched and event directed Red Rocks Amphitheatre's signature yoga series, Yoga on the Rocks, and currently oversees more than 400 annual public and private events with a focus on building strategic partnerships that advance economic vitality through arts, culture, and entertainment initiatives. Amy collaborated with the U.S. Pavilion renovation construction design-build team providing entertainment industry best practices resulting in a multi-use entertainment venue with increased programming flexibility and capacity and currently oversees programming, marketing, and food service for Riverfront Park. alindsey@spokanecity.org

Billy Mac, band director for Rush and author of “My Oh My: The Dave Niehaus Story

Singer/songwriter/session player Billy Mac has performed at the Aladdin, MGM Grand and Rio Hotel in Las Vegas. He’s been featured at festivals as far-ranging as Birmingham’s City Stages, Seattle’s Bumbershoot, state/county fairs throughout the West and countless fundraisers (Boys & Girls Clubs, Toys for Kids.) His ability to engage crowds makes him a solid choice - no wonder he currently performs 200+ dates a year including the Tulalip Resort Casino and private events. His concert work spans opening for artists from Chuck Berry to Aaron Neville.

The Spinners recently recorded his song, “Leftover Tears,” and ‘Little Anthony’ Gourdine just recorded Billy’s “Back In Brooklyn.” Tee It Up - Billy’s one-man multimedia golf show with pictures and video set to music from his CDs ‘Tee It Up’ and ‘The Back 9,’ features “Augusta Sweet Augusta,” one of GOLF Magazine’s ‘Top 10 Best Golf Songs.’ A spectacular booking for private golf clubs.

Natalie Maitland, Fort Worden

Public Development Authority

From crafting high quality experiences to developing creative marketing strategies, Natalie Maitland has been able to work and lead dynamic teams in her 15+ years of experience in the industry. Currently she is the head of Sales, Marketing, Food and Beverage at Fort Worden in Port Townsend, Washington. She has experience with a variety of platforms and is passionate about learning and teaching others. nmaitland@fortworden.org

Winfield B. Martin, Perkins Coie

Winfield "Win" Martin advises clients on all aspects of trademark, copyright, unfair competition, and internet and domain issues. He helps clients ranging from individuals to Fortune 50 companies in establishing and protecting trademarks and copyrights, and he designs and implements complex enforcement strategies to protect them. In his work, he manages expansive portfolios owned by global brands; protection of nontraditional trademarks such as product configuration and packaging, colors, and sounds; domain name arbitration proceedings; licensing; and corporate restructuring.

Win's reputation as a practical advisor is informed by his experience in both private practice and in-house settings. For more than two years, Win was seconded to Amazon's trademark group, where he worked on fast-moving teams that were crucial to building the company's enforcement mechanisms and protocols. Informed by this experience, he integrates outside counsel with in-house partners, building highly responsive and trusted teams who take pride in understanding their clients' businesses. An active member of the community, WMartin@perkinscoie.com

Amy Lindsey

Beth Lehman

Billy Mac Natalie Maitland Winfield B. Martin

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

Amy McGuffin

Amy Maxwell, Ticket Tomato

Amy comes with more than 20 years of experience in the event and entertainment industry. She manages shows, non-profit events, festivals, corporate functions, and concerts nationwide.

Previously, Amy worked for large corporations in event planning, marketing, and public relations roles. She also co-founded, managed, and helped build Patrick Lamb Productions for 18 years. She is also the co-founder and owner of Nic&Amy, a lifestyle brand empowering women which gives a portion of proceeds to Girls Inc. Amy continues to manage Ticket Tomato’s daily business in conjunction with event production and box office management nationwide. Amy — with the robust offerings from Ticket Tomato — is your ticket to a successful event. amy@tickettomato.com

Amy McGuffin, Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce

Since 2005, Kittitas County Chamber’s Chief Executive Officer Amy McGuffin’s has assisted nearly 150 for-profit and non-profit partners in their efforts to become better festivals and events, through lodging tax funding.Amy has been a member of the City of Ellensburg Lodging Tax committee since 2005.She also consults other communities on how to creatively use their lodging tax funds to engage and increase tourist spending, community branding, and to promote city assets. Amy has been very active in the creation of the Kittitas County Consolidated Lodging Tax Committee since 2012, a process in which municipalities come together to award annual applicants funding for festivals, events and projects. She recently sat on a county advisory committee to initiate tourism-related, small/large-Scale municipality-owned capital projects and operations. She was part of the award winning committee that created the Kittitas County Tourism Infrastructure plan. amy@kittitascountychamber.com

Meredith McIlmoyle, Anacortes

Arts Festival

Meredith has an extensive background in event management and was the publisher of Event Solutions magazine, a trade publication for event professionals. Most recently she has been employed by United General Hospital as the Communications Coordinator in charge of events, marketing and fundraising. She worked as a Festival volunteer for more than five years prior to joining the staff. aafdirector@anacortesartsfestival.com

Phil Megenhardt, Boldhat Productions

Phil is a creative event director with vast experience in event production and a passion for community building, brand activations, and flawless event execution. Phil founded Bold Hat Productions in 1997 on the roots of over 20 years of sales, marketing, and business development experience. As President and Creative Director of Bold Hat, Phil has created several signature Puget Sound area events, including nationally recognized Fremont Oktoberfest and Kirkland Uncorked, in addition to many corporate and municipal celebrations. Phil@boldhatproductions.com

Joe Allan Muharsky, Washington Renaissance Fair

Generalist. Hippie. Technologist. Luddite. Wandering Minstrel. Pop culture Pavlovian dog. Joe Allan spent 25 adult years in the IT industry, including 13 at Google. Over the last 10 years, they have expanded their focus to volunteer and community organizations, including running a community theatre and youth drama program.These days, they make professional and artistic connections in the Seattle area with friends and family, with a focus on building community and scaling organizations. Learn more at www.bassicnerd.com. joemu@highlandscastleholdings.com

Amy Maxwell

Meredith McIlmoyle

Phil Megenhardt

Joe Allan Muharsky

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

Kevin Nash, Bellevue Lighting

At age 14, I started my first business and haven’t stopped. I have been fortunate enough to have been able to create experiences for myself that have allowed me to pursue my dreams and interests. After starting three businesses, a nonprofit, and multiple advisory engagements with Fortune 500 companies and international governments, I’m ready to take the knowledge I’ve gathered and share it with those who I resonate with most – ambitious entrepreneurs who believe in what they do and want to bring good into the world.

Now living in Seattle, I operate my own business full-time, freelance for projects that interest me, and serve as a mentor for others trying to do the same. kevin@bellevue.lighting

Erika Olsen, Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival

Erika Olsen is a native Washingtonian who grew up on Seattle’s Capitol Hill. Prior to devoting her professional life to music and festival productions, she worked in the non-profit sector as the Human Resources Director for the HMO Pacific Health Plans. She currently is the Festival Director for the Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival as well as the Assistant Artistic Director/Marketing & Production Coordinator for Portland’s Waterfront Blues Festival. Erika loves to run, dance, listen to live music, cook, watch the Seahawks, spend time with her family & friends and try and make the world a better place. Under Erika's leadership, she and the Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival received the coveted “Keeping the Blues Alive” Award in 2015. This prestigious national award from the Memphis-based Blues Foundation recognized Erika for her compelling work on the Winthrop R&B Festival, known as “the best little festival” and is the longest running blues festival in Washington state. rikkito@mac.com

Patrice O’Neill, Wintergrass Festival

Patrice O’Neill is founder and Executive/Artistic Director of the annual Wintergrass festival in Bellevue WA. She is also a performing artist as a member of both Uncle Bonsai and The Go Janes. When she is not outside gardening, she enjoys writing songs, poems and narrative essays. When she has to, she also writes grants. Regardless of the type of writing she always tries to approach it with purpose, humor and a light touch. patriceo@comcast.net

Chris Ortolano, Stages Northwest

Chris Ortolano holds a BA in Accounting and is currently the client services manager at Stages Northwest. In his role, he has helped production managers with staging for single and multi-day concerts and events. The challenges associated with event planning led him to design and build an event budget template to track time, money, and resources. Prior to his role with Stages Northwest, Chris served as an accounting manager at Superfab, which was involved in the design and fabrication of custom woodwork at the Portland International Airport. Chris.Ortolano@stagesnorthwest.com

Kiah Patzkowsky, City of Seattle

Kiah Patzkowsky brings over two decades of event management experience with her as the City of Seattle’s Special Events Program Manager. She got her start interning at The Vera Project, then helped produce 10 Bumbershoot festivals in One Reel’s Programming and Production/Operations departments. After five winters managing marketing and group sales events at Stevens Pass Mountain Resort, she shifted to Seattle Center, where she spent 10 years as an Event Representative working on events such as Bumbershoot, NW Folklife, Pokemon GO! Fest, and several walks/runs. When she’s not working, she enjoys watching all the sports, snowboarding, and traveling for art, sports, and outdoor activities. Kiah.Patzkowsky@seattle.gov

Erika Olsen

Kevin Nash

Patrice O’Neill Chris Ortolano Kiah Patzkowsky

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

Mike Reichert

Eddie Redman, Grand Event Rentals

Eddie Redman has over 30 years of experience in the event industry, including working for the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics. He grew up in the business and even spent his teenage summers working for a local rental company. He has a keen eye for event logistics, and has become one of the industry’s best with tent layout and installations, tradeshows and festivals.

In his personal time, Eddie enjoys outdoor activities such as boating, attending UW football games and snow sports. eddier@grandrents.com

Mike Reichert, Axis PNW LLC

Mike Reichert is the owner of Axis PNW LLC., a security provider based in Seattle., Washington. Previously. served as the Senior Vice President of Operations for Staff Pro/AUES. Mr. Reichert brings his 32 plus years of experience to an organization that is purpose-built for today’s market. Mr Reichert has managed and provided security for multiple NFL teams and stadiums, NBA, NHL, MLB, NCAA, amphitheaters, music festivals and major trade shows. In starting Axis in the Pacific Northwest, Mr. Reichert was able to secure Lumen Field, University of Washington, AEG, Meydenbauer, Pier 62 the State Fair of Washington as clients in the first year of operations sticking to the plan he has always followed – recruiting and training staff. mike@axispnw.com

Merrilee Rush, Recording artist (“Angel in the Morning”)

After her “Merrilee and The Turnabouts” success, “Everybody’s Angel,” Merrilee Rush, went on to sing in world-wide concerts and appeared on American Bandstand, The Joey Bishop Show, The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour and other national television shows. Merrilee was a 1968 Grammy nominated Female Vocalist of the Year for “Angel of the Morning” alongside Barbra Streisand, Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin and Mary Hopkin. In 1989, The Northwest Area Musicians Association honored her with Hall of Fame membership. Last year, she was inducted into California Music Hall of Fame and received their Carol Kaye Inspiration Award. Merrilee still performs at special events, parties and Rock&Roll heritage shows across the country. She will be the Special Guest Star in the June 22 Oh What A Night Of Doo Wop concert -at Bergen Performing Arts Center, in Englewood, NJ along with a line-up of great singers and groups, hosted by “Cool Bobby B.”

Sacha Sanguinetti, Birch Bay Chamber

From the untamed wilderness of Kodiak, AK, to the golden plains of Kansas, to the shores of Birch Bay, WA, Sacha has lived and worked in small markets his entire life. He spent 23 years in the broadcast media business in a variety of roles including: national and local advertising sales, sports play-by-play, news, on-air morning show host, and management. In 2011, he helped create the largest agricultural/rural life radio network in the Sunflower State. Sacha currently serves as the event coordinator for the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, producing a number of successful events throughout the year. sacha@birchbaychamber.com

Frank Sebastian, Emergency Management Group

Frank Sebastian is the President of Emergency Management Group – Washington, a non-profit organization providing emergency management training, planning and operational support throughout the pacific northwest, including Seafair, Special Olympics of Washington, 2018 Special Olympics USA Games, and other organizations.

For many years, Frank has served as the Emergency Manager for Seafair in Seattle. Seafair produces many annual special events, including Summer 4th (July 4th), Torchlight Parade, Seafair Air Show and Hydroplane Boat Races. Frank has been the Emergency Manager and Incident Commander for many Seafair events, with attendance ranging from 5,000 to over 150,000 participants. Frank was the Emergency Manager for Seafair at the Seahawks Super Bowl Victory Parade, which attracted 750,000 participants in downtown Seattle. Frank accepted the additional role of Emergency Manager for the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle. As the Emergency Manager, he is responsible for pre-event public safety and emergency response planning, as well as inter-agency interoperability and resource coordination. Frank previously served many years with the federal government, at both FEMA and HHS Office of Emergency Management. He deployed to many national special security events, large-scale disasters and fatality incidents, including Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the Haiti earthquake, and the SR 530 (Oso) slide. fsebastian@emgwa.org

Eddie Redman

Merrilee Rush Sacha Sanguinetti

Frank Sebastian

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

George Sharp, Thurston Economic Development Council

George has had a thirty-five plus year career in community and economic development. He was the Washington Economic Development Association Economic Advocate of the Year in 2019. He is a founding member and past president of WFEA, developed the first WFEA Chapter, former executive director of the National Lentil Festival, Co-creator of Tumwater Artesian Brew Fest and the Bucoda Boo-Coda Spook-Tacular, is a past President and Board Member of Capital Lakefair and Cocoordinator of Tenino Oregon Trail Days, Tenino Christmas Tree Lighting, and Tenino Chamber Holiday Auction. Sharp has won numerous awards from IFEA and WFEA over the years for marketing. gsharp@thurstonedc.com

Shauna Smith, Corporate Engagement and Events Officer from EvergreenHealth

Corporate Engagement & Special Events Officer for EvergreenHealth Foundation I have the privilege of working with EvergreenHealth corporate partners towards a mutually shared purpose to provide the best medical care for our community. smsmith@evergreenhealth.com

Jon Stone, Jon Stone Consulting

Jon has been a fixture in the event industry for over 30 years, working in myriad areas including festivals, concerts, cultural infrastructure, civic placemaking, theater and multidisciplinary arts. To date he has performed key roles in the creation and execution of over 3500 events and performances, some of which have become iconic. His work and leadership have touched over 10 million audience members, participants, artists, vendors, staff, and crew.

Jon is a first-call advisor on all matters relating to our industry to local, regional, state, and tribal government and institutions, and across both non-profit and for-profit sectors. His consulting practice specializes in strategic planning, project management, business development and interim leadership. When people and organizations are ready to launch new ventures, enable bold change or need help navigating difficult challenges, they call Jon Stone. jstoneseattle@gmail.com

John Thorburn, Bold Hat Productions

John is a 12-year veteran in event marketing, and has led the marketing strategy for Hop Scotch Spring Beer and Scotch Festival, Fremont Fair, Kirkland Uncorked and Fremont Oktoberfest since joining the Bold Hat team in June 2014. He is skilled in social and digital marketing, traditional advertising, and brand management, and he's passionate about emerging technologies, community building and overall marketing trends.

Prior to joining Bold Hat Productions, John was the Vice President, Communications and Marketing at the Northwest Marine Trade Association, which produces the Seattle Boat Show - the third largest boat show in the U.S., and largest on the West Coast. John received his degree from the University of Washington in Communications, and holds a certificate in Advanced Digital Analytics from the University of San Francisco. john@boldhatproductions.com

Shelly Tolo, Tolo Events

Shelly Tolo launched Tolo Events in 2002 after a 12-year career as a development officer and event planner for nonprofit organizations. Her business mission is to maximize events through strategic planning and creating fabulous atmospheres and programs. She holds a Master’s Degree in Public Management from Carnegie Mellon University with a concentration in nonprofit organizations. In addition to her business savvy, Shelly has a keen eye for design and is recognized as a leading event designer in the industry. When asked what she hopes a potential client would say about her after an interview, Shelly responded, “more than anything I would hope they’d say she’s really nice – we want to work with her!”. Did you know Shelly was a synchronized swimmer in high school, considers herself an Olympics junkie and loves to binge watch Naked and Afraid? Shelly@toloevents.com

Shauna Smith

George Sharp

Jon Stone

John Thorburn

Shelly Tolo

WFEA CONFERENCE FACULTY

Peter Tomozawa

Wendy Tyner

Jackie Wood Baker Brenton Webster Gazala Uradnik

Peter Tomozawa, CEO Seattle 2026 World Cup Organizing Committee

On August 21, 2019, Sounders FC unveiled sports business leader and former financial executive Peter Tomozawa as the club’s President of Business Operations. Alongside wife Donna LeDuc, Tomozawa joined Seattle’s Ownership Group, making the pair the 12th family to become part of the Rave Green’s newest group of partners, following a large-scale announcement that saw the Ownership team expand significantly. Peter previously served as Vice President & Executive Director for Partnerships and Board Relations for Los Angeles’ successful bid for the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, Tomozawa is no stranger to the sports and entertainment worlds.

In February of 2023 Tomozawa is transitioned to the top leadership position with Seattle 2026, the local organizing committee that is charged with readying the Emerald City for FIFA World Cup 2026™. After four successful seasons with Sounders FC, Tomozawa departs to become SEA 2026 Chief Executive Officer, assuming oversight of all administrative, commercial and operational elements of SEA 2026, as the world’s biggest sporting event comes to Seattle in just over three years’ time.

Wendy Tyner, Tyner & Associates

As Director of Philanthropy/Publicity of Wintergrass Music Festival for 18 years, Wendy is deeply committed to preserving and promoting traditional acoustic American through presentation and education with an emphasis on the bluegrass community. Since 2017, she’s been the Board Treasurer for IBMA Foundation in Nashville. With a Master’s Degree in Education, Wendy values the importance of inviting all people of all ages and abilities to be exposed to music. Wendy spends her spare time promoting artists and producing shows. Outside of her profession, she spends time with her husband, Tom, two grandchildren, Owen and Jack, and her hens Dolly, Emmylou, Linda, Helen and Moosie. tynerassociates@aol.com

Gazala Uradnik, GFS Events

Gazala Uradnik has a Master’s in Healthcare Management from the University of Michigan School of Public Health and provided strategic development and business development expertise to hospitals and healthcare systems for many years. She is an entrepreneur by nature and starting her own businesses was a natural progression of her goals and skills. Gazala started GFS Events in 2012 because she knew that nonprofits needed help through her own nonprofit board and volunteer experience. GFS Events provides strategic event planning expertise to nonprofits through focused event strategy, logistics coordination, mission/messaging and audience and donor development. Over the last ten years, her team has helped countless nonprofits raise millions of dollars throughout the Pacific Northwest and across the country. GFS Events has received numerous awards for best nonprofit event and best public event through the International Live Events Association. Gazala also serves on the board for the International Live Events Association Seattle Chapter and Women Business Owners. She has also served in numerous positions, including President and Vice-President, for the Business Network International Plateau Partners Chapter. Gazala lives in Sammamish with her husband and three children. gazala@gfsevents.org

Jackie Wood Baker, Sparkwood Events

Wood Baker is the Chief Experience Officer at Sparkwood Connect. When we make time for in-person connections, that time needs to be well structured, meaningful, and fun! This is what builds true connections and that is my objective for SparkWood! jackie@sparkwoodevents.com

Brenton Webster, Fastbar Technologies

Brenton is the founder and CEO of FastBar Technologies, a leading provider of cashless payment solutions for events and venues. FastBar helps events enhance profitability, radically improve the customer experience, and streamline operations. Brenton is a former Software Architect at Microsoft and has spent 25+ years at the intersection of events and technology. He blends a deep technical background with extensive experience in the event industry as a founder of Bonza Bash Productions, an event production company responsible for producing 3500+ person up-scale events in the Seattle area. In addition, Brenton founded the event ticketing website, Shindigg, making it easy for any event organizer to sell tickets and collect money.

Brenton holds a Bachelor’s degree with First Class Honors in Computing Science from the University of Technology, Sydney Australia. brenton@getfastbar.com

Attendees Attendees

Spokane Lilac Festival

Armed Forces Torchlight Parade

WFEA CONFERENCE ATTENDEES

NATALIE ABERSFELLER

Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton & Franklin Counties natalie.abersfeller@greatclubs.org

ZACKARY ADAMSON

DTG Recycle zadamson@dtgrecycle.com

DONYA ALWARD

Red Lion Port Angeles donya.alward@cohoserv.com

TIGRAN ARAKELYAN Music Works NW tigran@musicworksnw.org

EMILIE BAKER Olympic Music Festival emilie@olympicmusicfestival.org

PAULA BEADLE Sponsorship Marketing Association paula@caravelmarketing.com

JON BOCKSTRUCK VIP Production Northwest jon@vipproductionnw.com

BEN BRAUDRICK City of Port Angeles Bbraudri@cityofpa.us

MARY BURDETTE burdettemail@gmail.com

SANDY CAMERON Streamfest skaycameron@gmail.com

SHANA CASEY Geek Girl NW

MARIANNA CHEBOTARYOVA Theatre33 info@theatre33wa.org

NATHAN COOK

Evergreen City Ballet principal@evergreencityballet.org

ROBERT CUNNINGHAM

Stages Northwest robert.cunningham@stagesnorthwest.com

NATALIE DAGGETT

City of East Wenatchee ndaggett@eastwenatcheewa.gov

MARC ABSHIRE

Port Angeles Chamber of Commerce director@portangeles.org

SCOTT ALEXANDER

Alexander Party Rentals scottalexander@alexanderpartyrentals.c om

TODD ANDERSON City of Tumwater tanderson@ci.tumwater.wa.us

KIMBERLY ASHWORTH Ashworth Awards kim@ashworthawards.com

JAQUELYN BALL City of Covington jball@covingtonwa.gov

ADRIANA BERNDT Spokane Lilac Festival ed@spokanelilacfestival.org

DAISY BOWER Bellevue Lighting Daisy@bellevue.lighting

BEAU BROWN r.Cup beau@rcup.com

STUART BUTLER Butler Events stuart@butlerseattle.com

HEATHER CARTER Fairhaven Association heather@enjoyfairhaven.com

JILLIAN CELICH Visit Seattle jcelich@visitseattle.org

BRANDI CHRISTMAN City of Bellevue bchristman@bellevuewa.gov

ERIC CORNING

WFEA Board Member eric.corning@gmail.com

ROBBI CURREY

We Love Rainier WA rinoly@comcast.net

DALE DAHL

Mukilteo Recreation and Cultural Services ddahl@mukilteowa.gov

VANESSA ADAMS Nez Pearce County Fair vanessa@npcfair.org

ALBY ALLEN

Ballard SeafoodFest, Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival albyseafoodfestprod@gmail.com

ALEXANDRA ANGELOVA Workshop Events Alex@workshopevents.com

ANTERPREET BAINS Tasveer Anterpreet@tasveer.org

KIM BAUMAN Greater Giving kbauman@greatergiving.com

BRITTANY BLACK Long Beach Merchants Association bblacklongbeachmerch@outlook.com

BRITT BOWMAN City of Tumwater bbowman@ci.tumwater.wa.us

JACKIE BUI Youth Eastside Services jackieb@youtheastsideservices.org

WILL CADRA Ballard SeafoodFest will@ballardalliance.com

LAUREN CARTER Seafair lauren@seafair.org

KARI CHANCE Juan De Fuca Foundation for the Arts karichance@jffa.org

KEVIN COLEMAN Bellingham SeaFeast kevin@bellinghamseafeast.com

AMY CRAVEN Snohomish County Amy.Craven@snoco.org

LAUREN CURTIS

Metro Parks Tacoma lauren.curtis@tacomaparks.com

ANNA DAVIDSON anna@annamiadavidson.com

WFEA CONFERENCE ATTENDEES

BECKI DAY

San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce becki@sanjuanisland.org

CARI DIXON Washington State Fair carid@thefair.com

DAVID DOWNING Youth Eastside Services DavidD@youtheastsideservices.org

TRINA ELMES City of East Wenatchee telmes@eastwenatcheewa.gov

BRIANNA FELLER

City of Tumwater bfeller@ci.tumwater.wa.us

KIM FOSTER Highlands Council kim.f@ihcouncil.org

RACHEL GARCIA Minuteman Press - Issaquah issaquah@minutemanpress.com

AMY GEORGE

City of New Castle amyg@newcastlewa.gov

MAIA GORANSON City of Covington mshank@covingtonwa.gov

LONI GRENINGER

Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe lgreninger@jamestowntribe org.

MELISSA HAFFLY Washington Renaissance Arts & Education Society entertainment@oregonfaire.com

JUDAH HARRIS 509 Jumpers Judah@509jumpers.com

MARK HENDRICKSON Kents Parks & Recreation mhendrickson@kentwa.gov

LORIE HOFFMAN

City of Bellevue LHoffman@bellevuewa.gov

MARY ELLEN HUNDLEY

City Opera Ballet info@cityoperaballet.org

DRUCILLA DENCE

Olympic Music Festival drucilla@olympicmusicfestival.org

NICK DODDS

Festivals & Events International nick.dodds@feiuk.com

DAVID DOXTATER Workshop Events doxtater@workshopevents.com

H. STUART ELWAY Crosscut/Elway Poll Director

CASI FORS Olympic Medical Center Foundation casi@forsfinancialconsulting.com

SUSAN FREEBURG City of Bellevue

BILL GATLIN City of Bellevue bgatlin@bellevuewa.gov

MIKE GIBSON Workshop Events zen.sorcere@gmail.com

KELLY GOUGE Olympic Medical Center Foundation kellygouge@gmail.com

DARBY GRIMES Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce darby@kittitascountychamber.com

KAREN HANAN Washington State Arts Commission karen.hanan@arts.wa.gov

DOUG HEATH

Lead Guitar - Paul Revere and the Raiders

LIN HINO City of Poulsbo lhino@cityofpoulsbo.com

HOLLY HOUSE Thurston County Economic Development Council hhouse@thurstonedc.com

ALICE HUNTING Workshop Events alice@workshopevents.com

CHUCK DENNEY

City of Tumwater CDenney@ci.tumwater.wa.us

SEAN DOUGLAS

City of Vancouver Sean.Douglas@cityofvancouver.us

KRISTI ELLEFSON WaFD Bank kristi.ellefson@wafd.com

DECI EVANS Kind and Co Events info@kindandcompanyevents.org

KAREN FOSTER KF Curates karendfoster30@gmail.com

EMMA JANE GARCIA City of Sequim ejgarcia@sequimwa.gov

BECKY GENOWAYS Genoways Event Management

JERA GILMORE City of Bellevue jgilmore@bellevuewa.gov

BOB GREENSPUN Lake City Summerfest lakecitysummerfest@gmail.com

MAXIMILIANO GUERRA Evergreen City Ballet director@evergreencityballet.org

CHRISTY HARRIS Mukilteo Recreation and Cultural Services charris@mukilteowa.gov

PHIL HEIDT CORT Pro Services Phil.Heidt@cort.com

TIFFANY HITT

Pike Place Market Foundation tiffanyh@pikeplacemarketfoundation.org

KELL HOUSTON Houston Productions

FARMER JOHN Whitehorse Musicians Guild FJ@WMGmusic.com

WFEA CONFERENCE ATTENDEES

EMILY JOHNSON

Burlington Chamber of Commerce emily@burlington-chamber.com

BRAD JONES

Visit Bellevue BJones@visitbellevuewa.com

KEVIN JOYCE EnJoy Productions kevin@en-joyproductions.com

MATTHEW KERNS City of Maple Valley matthew.kerns@maplevalleywa.gov

AMANDA KORB Blue Ink ak@blueinkseattle.com

BONNIE LACKEY Alexander Party Rental bonnie@alexanderpartyrentals.com

ANDREA LAMBRECHT Butler Events andrea@butlerevents.com

DAVID LAWSON Perkins Coie DLawson@perkinscoie.com

TAWNIA LINDE Clark County Event Center tawnia.linde@cceventcenter.org

CHRISTINE LOEWE Port Angeles Fine Arts Center christine@pafac.org

BILLY MAC Band Director for Rush

PHILLY MARSH City of Redmond

AMY MAXWELL Ticket Tomato amy@tickettomato.com

KATIE MCKELLAR Workshop Events Katie@workshopevents.com

PHIL MEGENHARDT Bold Hat Productions phil@boldhatproductions.com

GEORGIA JOHNSON

Field Arts & Events Hall GJohnson@fieldhallevents.org

DR. JOSHUA JONES Providence

MELISSA JURCAN

Compass One at Amazon melissa.jurcan@compass-usa.com

BETH KNOX

Seattle Sports Commission beth@seattlesports.org

NOEL KOSKI

Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. noel@abcwestwa.org

JERRY LAEL

Volunteer of the Year glael@farmersagent.com

LORI LANCASTER

Benton Franklin Fair & Rodeo lori@bentonfranklinfair.com

CLAYTON LEADY Honey Bucket claytonleady@honeybucket.com

AMY LINDSEY

Riverfront Spokane alindsey@spokanecity.org

BOB LOVELL Olympic Medical Center Foundation rhl46@hotmail.com

NATALIE MAITLAND Fort Worden Hospitality nmaitland@fortworden.org

WINFIELD MARTIN Perkins Coie WMartin@perkinscoie.com

AMY MCGUFFIN Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce amy@kittitascountychamber.com

TIM MEDVED U-Cool Refrigeration tim@ucool.biz

RITA MEHER Tasveer rita@tasveer.org

JESSICA JOHNSON Naval Elks Lodge #353 navalelksevents@gmail.com

VICTORIA JONES

Port Angeles Marathon Association victoria@nodm.com

CARRIE KANN City of Sequim ckann@sequimwa.gov

LESLIE KODISH City of Seattle Special Events Office Leslie.Kodish@seattle.gov

KATHY KRAMER

Central Washington Fair Association citlalil@fairfun.com

MARE LAI Bellevue Farmers Market mare@bellevuefarmersmarket.org

TREVOR LANE

WSU Community and Economic Development trevor.lane@wsu.edu

BETH LEHMAN Washington State Liquor Control Board beth.lehman@lcb.wa.gov

JINTANA LITYOUVONG Wing Luke Museum jlityouvong@wingluke.org

BETHANY LUECK Lilac Bloomsday Association bethany@bloomsdayrun.org

VICKIE MAPLES Sequim Irrigation Festival vickie1616@hotmail.com

KIRSTY MASSINGHAM Juan De Fuca Foundation for the Arts kirsty@jffa.org

MEREDITH MCILMOYLE Anacortes Arts Festival aafdirector@anacortesartsfestival.com

TRACEY MEDVED U-Cool Refrigeration

ALEX MIELCAREK City of Seattle Special Events Office Alex.Mielcarek@seattle.gov

WFEA CONFERENCE ATTENDEES

CHRIS MILLER City of McCleary christopher.l.miller74@gmail.com

ASHLEY MOULDON Pike Place Market ashleym@pikeplacemarketfoundation.org

BEAU MYERS R.Cup beau@rworldreuse.com

JAMIE NASSAR Event Hub jamien@eventhub.net

DONNA NOBLE

Whitehorse Musicians Guild Donna.j.pede@gmail.com

PATRICE O'NEILL Wintergrass patriceo@comcast.net

JONATHAN PASTERNACK Port Angeles Symphony pasymphony@olypen.com

SHANNA PAXTON

Shanna Paxton Photography info@shannapaxton.com

LINDSEY PINKSTON Highlands Council lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org

ERA POGOSOVA Theatre33 theatre33.wa@gmail.com

IRINA RASPUTNIS Tacoma Porchfest irinarasp@gmail.com

CAROL RILEY

Retired, Olympia Harbor Days RileyCarolJ@gmail.com

RACHEL RONAN Kiwi Creative rachel@kiwicreative.com

STEPHEN RUFFO Wintergrass ruffosj@gmail.com

SACHA SANGUINETTI Birch Bay Chamber sacha@birchbaychamber.com

TED MITTLESTAED City of Bellevue tmittlestaed@bellevuewa.gov

JOE ALLAN MUHARSKY Teamatorium joemu@highlandscastleholdings.com

ALLEN NAKAMOTO Japan Fair nakamoto.a@comcast.net

LE-VY NGUYEN Wing Luke Museum lcraig@wingluke.org

PAUL NORDHOLM Own the Night Production paul@otnpro.com

CHRIS ORTOLANO Stages Northwest Chris.Ortolano@stagesnorthwest.com

KIAH PATZKOWSKY City of Seattle Special Events Office Kiah.Patzkowsky@seattle.gov

ANN PELO Earthbound Productions

ANETTE PITTS Experience Olympia annette@experienceolympia.com

MIKE PREBEZAC Event Management Services mike@mvpems.com

EDDIE REDMAN Grand Event Rentals eddier@grandrents.com

LESLIE ROBERTSON Port Angeles Chamber of Commerce events@portangeles.org

KRISTEN ROSELLO MCVEY Workshop Events Kristen@workshopevents.com

MERRILEE RUSH Recording Artist

STAR MOSER CORT Pro Services star.moser@cort.com

TERRI MUHARSKY Teamatorium terri.muharsky@highlandscastleholdings.com

KEVIN NASH Bellevue Lighting kevin@bellevue.lighting

WILL NICCOLLS Green Latrine will@gogreenlatrine.com

ERIKA OLSEN Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival rikkito@mac.com

AL PARISI Workshop Events Al@workshopevents.com

BRENT PAVLICEK Western Display Fireworks brent@westerndisplay.com

KAVITHA PETERS GFS Events kavitha@gfsevents.org

KARISA PLEDGER Bold Hat Productions admin@boldhatproductions.com

GAIL RALSTON Olympic Medical Center Foundation gtralston@hotmail.com

MICHAEL REICHERT Axis PNW LLC mike@axispnw.com

DAVID ROGERS Fungi Festival pafungifest@gmail.com

HOWIE RUDDELL Ruddell Auto Howie@ruddellauto.com

LEYLA SALMASSI-FARIVAR Peyvand NPO salmafari@gmail.com

MIKE SCHMITZ Ashworth Awards mike.schmitz@ashworthawards.com

RYAN SCHROEDER Metro Parks Tacoma ryan@tabookcove.com

WFEA CONFERENCE ATTENDEES

BETSY SCHULTZ

Captain Joseph House Foundation betsy.rs@live.com

MICHAEL SHADOW

City Opera Ballet shadowassociates@qwestoffice.net

JENNI SHELTON City of Moses Lake jshelton@cityofml.com

YUKA SHIMIZU Japan Fair yukashimizu@bcacademy.com

ELLEN SIMEONOFF Kodiak Chamber of Commerce ellen@kodiakchamber.org

BRAD SMITH Meridian Defense System bsmith@meridian-barrier.com

TOM STEBBINS

Vision Marketing tom@vision-marketing.net

MIKE STEWART

Ballard SeafoodFest mike@ballardalliance.com

TATIANA STONE

Bellingham SeaFeast admin@bellinghamseafeast.com

SUMMER STUMPF City of Sammamish sstumpf@sammamish.us

SUMMER TAGGART Honey Bucket SummerTaggart@HoneyBucket.com

TUYEN THAN Chinatown-International District Block Party tuyen@cidbp.com

JOHN THORBURN Bold Hat Productions john@boldhatproductions.com

SHELLY TOLO Tolo Events shelly@toloevents.com

STEVE TURCQ Axis PNW LLC steve@axispnw.com

EMILY SCOTT

City of Sammamish escott@sammamish.us

SHAHRZAD SHAMS

Peyvand NPO shahrzad@peyvandnpo.org

JANAE SHERRY Workshop Events Janae@workshopevents.com

CLAY SHURMAN Northwest Travel clay@explorermm.com

DIANE WEAVER SIMMS Grand Mound Rochester Chamber of Commerce rochestergrandmoundchamber@gmail.com

SHAUNA SMITH EvergreenHealth smsmith@evergreenhealth.com

STACY STENSLIE City of Bellevue sstenslie@bellevuewa.gov

RILEY STOCKTON

Spokane Hoopfest riley@spokanehoopfest.net

RACHEL STORCK Port Angeles Fine Arts Center rachel@pafac.org

DYLAN SUTHERLAND Tacoma Tent & Awning dylan@tacomatent.com

AUSTIN TAYLOR AT Productions LLC austin@atproductions.biz

ERICKA THOMPSON Kodiak Chamber of Commerce crd@kodiakchamber.org

ADAM TIEGS Adams DJ Service adam@adamsdjservice.com

PETER TOMOZAWA Seattle 2026 World Cup Organizing Committee

WENDY TYNER Tyner & Associates tynerassociates@aol.com

FRANK SEBASTIAN

Emergency Management Group - WA fsebastian@emgwa.org

GEORGE SHARP

Thurston County Economic Development Council gsharp@thurstonedc.com

HANNAH SHIELDS City of La Center hshields@ci.lacenter.wa.us

JEANNETTE SIELER Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation jeannette.sieler@cityoflacey.org

ARLENE SMITH Seattle Flow Arts Collective arlene@seattleflowarts.org

CHELSEA STALDER Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce chelsea@kittitascountychamber.com

ELI STERLING Earthbound Productions agatemoons@yahoo.com

JON STONE Jon Stone Consulting jon@jonstoneconsulting.com

BREANNA STRATTON Downtown Association of Yakima events@downtownyakima.com

JEN SWANSON Field Arts & Events Hall jen@fieldhallevents.org

SARA TETREAULT Olympic Discovery Trail relationshipmanager@olympicdiscoverytrail.org

ROSE THOMPSON Dungeness Crab Festival rose@crabfestival.org

MEGGAN TJARKS Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton and Franklin Counties meggan.tjarks@greatclubs.org

YURI TROFIMCZUK Mukilteo Recreation and Cultural Services ttrofimczuk@mukilteowa.gov

HANNAH TYO City of Seattle Special Events Office Hannah.Tyo@seattle.gov

WFEA CONFERENCE ATTENDEES

GAZALA URADNIK GFS Events gazala@gfsevents.org

ALINE VIDA Gigs4U aline@gigs4u.org

JENNIFER WATERS-WHITE Dungeness River Nature Center Jennifer@DungenessRiverCenter.org

TANNER WIGGINS Axis PNW LLC tanner@axispnw.com

JACKIE WOOD-BAKER Sparkwood Events jackie@sparkwoodevents.com

ANU VADARI House of Kala HouseofKalaWA@gmail.com

CLIFF VERHOEFF AT Productions LLC cliff@atproductions.biz

ALEX WEBSTER Seattle Sports Commission alex@seattlesports.org

MARK WILLIAMS Tri-City Water Follies water.follies@gmail.com

MARISA WORDEN City of Tumwater mworden@ci.tumwater.wa.us

ASHLEY YOUNG Tacoma Venues & Events ayoung1@tacomavenues.org

JAMES VARNELL Raucous Band jimvarnelllaw@gmail.com

ABBY WALSER Nez Pearce County Fair abby@npcfair.org

BRENTON WEBSTER Fastbar Technologies brenton@getfastbar.com

TONYA WOLDRIDGE Lake Stevens Park & Recreation Department twoldridge@lakestevenswa.gov

JEAN WYATT Sequim Irrigation Festival wyattj@nikola.com

WASHINGTON FESTIVALS & EVENTS ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE STAFF

BRUCE SKINNER WFEA bruce@wfea.org

JEREMY GILCHRIST WFEA jeremy@wfea.org

LINDSAY FOX WFEA lindsay@wfea.org

AMY PEARSON WFEA amy@wfea.org

AISHA ALLEN Aisha Allen Consulting aisha@aisheallenconsulting.com

Sponsors Sponsors

Sponsor Display from Blue Ink

WFEA CONFERENCE SPONSORS

Adam has been a professional DJ for more than 20 years. Since 2014, he has grown his technical skillsets and worked as a freelancer in all aspects of running Audio, Wireless and Video elements at events. From auctions to Ted Talks, corporate retreats to trade shows with general sessions and break outs, Adam and his team of freelancers and partners have done it all. Adam also loves creating voice overs, producing and remixing music, editing videos and audio mastering, in the studio!

adamsdjservice.com adamsavservice.com

Alexander Party Rental

Family owned and operated, Alexander Party Rentals has provided the Greater Puget Sound area with quality and affordable event rental equipment since 1991. Recently in our second generation of ownership, we are proud to be one of the fastest growing companies in the industry, sporting some of the youngest equipment and newest products.

We offer a huge range of equipment from engineered tents and staging down to basic table settings and linens. We work with all manner of organizations and individuals to plan events large and small, from the annual corporate party to an intimate backyard wedding. We pride ourselves on our award winning customer service and are happy to apply our expertise and knowledge to all aspects of an event – not just to our equipment!

Give us a call today and experience the APR Difference! alexanderpartyrentals.com

Ashworth Awards

We aim to combine tradition with innovation to ensure we create the most current, popular, and desired recognition products by our customers and their participants and award winners. Ashworth Awards aims to invest back into our customers, the industry, and our team members, always listening and relating to industry trends to make certain it satisfies the needs of all those we work with. We have incorporated thoughtful design into our eco-friendly, responsibly made products. We care about every step in the process from our Earth-conscious, raw material sourcing of our recycled steel and wood products to the expansion of our fully Made in USA domestic product line.

This, in turn, is reducing our carbon footprint, majorly reducing our need for air or boat freight shipping, and allowing us to exclusively use eco-friendly packaging. We are committed to nonplastic packaging and tape for any of our shipments. We utilize potato based, biodegradable packing peanuts, paper bags for individual medal packaging, and paper tape and packing materials to ship all our products. ashworthawards.com

AXIS PNW

Axis PNW has established itself as the premier security and staffing in the country due to its strategic growth plans. The growth of Axis PNW has been very structured and strategic to special events or venues that need assistance or in need of quality management and staffing.

Axis PNW is your one stop shop for event security and staffing in the Pacific Northwest. From conventions to concerts and special events, Axis PNW will aid you in developing a comprehensive staffing and security plan. We will help you scale the level of services to the needs of your event. Our ability to be nimble and respond quickly to changes will give you an advantage in operating your event. We will supply your event with trained and experienced staff that allow our clients to focus on their event. Axis PNW has an extensive record providing security and event staffing for events in the Washington and Oregon region. Our employee base is very diverse, and solution based. axispnw.com

WFEA CONFERENCE SPONSORS

Bellevue Lighting

We believe in pushing the limits of technology to create experiences that guests will never forget –and we stand by that. Through our creative nature, we design and develop customized solutions for all types of events and venues, from corporate events, videos, and conferences to fundraiser galas, theatre productions, band performances, and weddings. We’re experts in lighting, special effects, audio, and video; ready to make any dream a reality. https://bellevue.lighting/

Blue Ink

We are a full-service creative agency with an oversized print services and extensive vendor partnerships. BLUE INK can print artwork large enough to cover entire walls, and small enough to be a decal on a wine glass at your holiday party. blueinkseattle.com

CORT Pro Services

CORT Pro Services is a turnkey temporary power and electrical distribution division of CORT Party Rental, offering a wide range of high-quality products and services designed by skilled technicians from a reliable partner you trust.

cortpartyrental.com/cort-pro-services

EnJoy Productions

Over the past 20 years, Kevin Joyce and Martha Enson have established themselves as one of the most versatile and prolific creative teams in the Pacific Northwest. They have designed, created, produced and performed some of the region’s most innovative and successful live events, from theater to spectacle, circus, interactive entertainment, and atmosphere enhancements. As EnJoy Productions, they have hosted and created value-adding performance for over 1000 events since 2002. EnJoy’s events and shows are designed to celebrate, honor and inspire attendees, while provoking new perspectives on excellence and purpose. They specialize in customized content that tells necessary stories and are dedicated to the promotion of sustainability on the individual, organizational and global levels. In 2019 Mick Holsbeke joined the creative team, bringing with him internationally renowned circus skills, deep experience in facilitation, and awesome production chops. en-joyproductions.com

EventHub

Our Co-founders Michael and Jamie have spent a collective 20+ years in the live event industry. Their experience spans from managing nationwide sponsorship activations for major brands at sporting events, festivals, and expos to producing entire festivals and everything in between. Their experiences led them to two major realizations about the current state of event partnerships: it’s way too difficult to find and vet the right events as a brand/commercial partner, and that there was an overwhelming amount of paperwork and communication involved at every step of the partnership, from initial inquiry up through execution. Event Hub seeks to solve these challenges by providing a platform where the right partner organizations — be they brands, agencies, small businesses, or non-profits — can easily match with the right event opportunities, while also providing tools that streamline communications, payments, paperwork, and logistics so that event organizers and their partners can focus on what matters most. eventhub.net

FastBar

FastBar’s state of the art cashless payment system is purpose-built for live events. Simple, quick, and easy to use, FastBar helps you and your team run your events more effectively.

FastBar’s easy to use, high-speed, contactless payment solution for live events helps improve attendee satisfaction, increase revenue and provides unparalleled business insight. getfastbar.com

WFEA CONFERENCE SPONSORS

Grand Event Rentals

Grand Event Rentals makes your event our top priority. They are your full service Special Event & Party Rental provider, supplying everything you need from start to finish. Their professional sales team and event staff will work with you to create your dream event. With every event our customer's needs are most important to the company. Whether you are planning an intimate outdoor wedding or an elaborate black-tie gala, Grand Event Rentals take great pride in providing our event planning experience to help create an unforgettable event. grandeventrentalswa.com

Greater Giving

Greater Giving works exclusively with schools and nonprofits across the nation—offering integrated technologies to help simplify event management, quickly train volunteers, streamline check-in and check-out and raise more funds.

go.greatergiving.com

Green Latrine

At Green Latrine, we are a family-owned Seattle, WA company that provides clean, environmentally friendly portable toilets. No event is too big or too small for us, and we provide clean, high-quality portable toilets for situations and events as diverse as weddings, construction sites, and sporting events.

As a premier Seattle portable toilet company, our overall goal of providing 100 percent client satisfaction goes far beyond giving customer service. We aim to satisfy the precise needs of each client every time, no matter their individual situation. As a company that is also heavily focused on reducing our impact on the environment, we implement a wide variety of green solutions. gogreenlatrine.com

Honey Bucket

Honey Bucket is committed to being the best provider of portable sanitation. This includes the quality of products they offer, the services they provide, and the attitude, dedication and skills of their employees. The company provides portable sanitation, fencing, barricade and portable showers. honeybucket.com

Jon Stone Consulting

Jon Stone Consulting is a collective of renowned event producers, community leaders, and subject matter experts. Our uncommon breadth and depth of experience gives us a rare 360 degree perspective of the issues at hand. jonstoneconsulting.com

WFEA CONFERENCE SPONSORS

Kind & Co. Events

Kind + Co Events, founded by Deci Evans, is a female-owned company that delivers extraordinary events around the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Through memorable experiences and interactions, we are able to produce unique events that assist clients to advance their purpose, message, and brand.

Kind + Co Events has been embracing an integrated approach to event management since 2018. All the key elements of an event experience are created, designed, and overseen by our team. With Deci Evans at the helm, we ensure that our customers' visions are in sync and that the planning process runs smoothly, resulting in successful and memorable events. You can rely on our incredible staff to manage your event from beginning to end and bring your idea to life. kacevents.com

Northwest Travel & Life Magazine

NORTHWEST TRAVEL & LIFE MAGAZINE’S editorial includes Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Alaska and British Columbia. The bimonthly magazine, founded in 1991, strives to inspire extraordinary travel among our readers with informative and entertaining content about travel, food, drink, events and culture in the Northwest. Our audience is continually inspired by new destinations and fresh travel ideas in the magazine, website and social media.

nwtravelmag.com

Own The Night Productions

Own the Night Productions is the fastest growing production company in the Pacific Northwest. You can trust us to perform as promised, bring value beyond expectation, and leave them wanting more.

We are poised and ready to take your event to the next level. By providing excellent planning, state-of-the-art equipment, experienced staff, and flawless performances…we build trusted, longterm partnerships. This is how we measure success. ownthenightpro.com

Stages Northwest

Stages Northwest is your source for professional stage rental services, serving the Pacific Northwest for 20 years.We offer Mobile Stages, Riser Systems, Outdoor Roof Systems, Event Staging, and all your Rigging needs. Anthony has been around the staging industry his whole life. Started working at Stages Northwest in high school, went off to study engineering and business, and has been working full time since 2014.Bob founded Stages Northwest in 2001. Throughout his adult life, Bob has worked with many theater groups, sporting events, and event production companies, providing his expertise in setting the "stage". StagesNorthwest.com

The Workshop

We Are Planners. Live Events for Corporations, Non-Profits and Government Agencies

We know how to put the grand into grand openings, the joy into public celebrations and the show into stage presentations. Our work is iconic moments in Northwest event history. Think Bumbershoot Arts Festival, MLB All-Star Game, New Year's Space Needle Fireworks Show, Summer Nights at the Pier, Viaduct Closing Celebration, Lake Union 4th of July, and many many more iconic Northwest experiences.

Our team has the knowledge and experience to create both massive spectacles and small wonderful gatherings. Hand-off the hard work to us and we'll tend to everything, from the big picture, down to the smallest details. We are confident that with you, we will produce a genuine interesting experience every time.

workshopevents.com

WFEA CONFERENCE SPONSORS

Ticket Tomato

YOUR ALTERNATIVE FOR EVENT TICKETS...

Ticket Tomato is your ticket to a successful event. From seamless online ticket sales, a friendly customer service staff to answer questions on the phone, promoting your event ahead of time and box office management, Ticket Tomato is with you every step of the way to ensure your event is a success.

As an online alternative to oversized national ticket resellers, Ticket Tomato staff are passionate about delivering a concierge experience to both clients and patrons. We are committed to your success through competitive pricing, real time ticket tracking, support and efficient online processing. We're changing the world one ticket at a time. tickettomato.com

Tolo Events

We Create. We Design. We Produce. We thrive on integrating creativity across all facets of a live event production. Our strategy for seamless success ensures that each client’s core vision comes to life. With more than 20 years of expertise in all aspects of event services, we manage every element. It’s not just our contacts that count, it is our approach too. We are professionals who become a part of your team and our amazing vendor network ensures that no time is lost in the planning process. toloevents.com

U-Cool Refrigeration

U-COOL Refrigeration, LLC was founded in 2006, by Tim and Tracey Medved, in Tacoma, Washington. Renting refrigeration vehicles is our primary business. Half of our business is for event rentals, and the other half is for dining facilities. A diverse product line allows you the ability to right size the equipment to your specific project. Mobile walk-in coolers and freezers, draft beer trailers, ice trailers, cargo vans, and 16’ to 26’ box trucks. Ideal for storing and transporting fresh, or frozen perishable goods. Our equipment comes pre-tested, clean, and ready to use. You can pick it up yourself, or have it delivered. We have over 40 years of knowledge, and experience in the rental business. We enjoy what we do, and we are happy to serve you. RENTING. SO SMART, SO EASY. ucool.biz

Visit Bellevue

Visit Bellevue serves as Bellevue, Washington’s Official Destination Marketing and Management Organization. Our mission is to stimulate economic growth and development in Bellevue’s visitor economy and inspire memorable visitor experiences.

We strive to be a collective voice to develop, grow, and manage Bellevue’s Hospitality and Tourism community and plan to build our industry and further increasing visitor spending and overall economic impact to $2 billion by the end of 2024. visitbellevuewa.com/

Western Display Fireworks, LTD

A tradition of Excellence, Western Display Fireworks is a fifth generation family –owned business offering the finest in pyrotechnic productions. Celebrating their 70th year in operation, they are the oldest and largest aerial display fireworks company in the Northwest, and are honored to be part of hundreds of celebrations annually. Serving festivals and events of all sizes, from Seafair Summer Fourth to Mukilteo Lighthouse Festival to Duvall Days they approach every show with the same commitment to excellence. Let them show you how to illuminate your next event with fireworks! westerndisplay.com