About Us

 

Who We Are 

The National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) Houston Chapter is a leading hospitality networking group in Houston, bringing together catering, events, and hospitality professionals through education, collaboration, and industry connections. As one of the most active event industry networking organizations in Houston, we provide opportunities for wedding vendors, corporate event professionals, and hospitality leaders to grow their businesses and careers.

NACE is the premier resource and community for catering and event professionals. As the oldest and largest professional association in the industry, we are committed to education, networking and elevating our members' careers. Through the collective efforts of members, local Chapters, committees and the Foundation of NACE, the organization remains at the forefront of the issues that directly affect you and your business.

Founded in 1992, the NACE Houston Chapter is one of the most dynamic and active chapters in the country, offering local events, professional development, and hospitality networking opportunities in Houston tailored to our community. 

 

Our Mission 

The mission of NACE is "To be the premier resource and community for catering and event professionals."

 

Why Join NACE Houston 

If you're searching for hospitality industry networking groups in Houston or looking to connect with top event professionals, NACE Houston offers unmatched access to education, relationships, and career growth. As a dynamic community of industry leaders, NACE Houston is one of the top hospitality networking groups in Houston, connecting professionals across catering, weddings, corporate events, and the broader events industry.

The NACE Houston Chapter is made up of passionate professionals who are dedicated to fostering growth, collaboration and excellence within Houston's catering and events industry. 

When you join NACE, you instantly become part of a local Chapter. You are also offered the opportunity to add on a secondary Chapter complimentary. NACE has over 40 Chapters around the nation offering monthly meetings that feature nationally renown speakers, educational programs, idea sharing, and networking.  

 

    Education

    • Monthly NACE Houston meetings featuring expert speakers and industry trends.
    • Exclusive access to professional development resources and certifications. 
    • Evolve Leadership Conference - A leadership-focused event designed to help NACE board members and chapter leaders grow and develop.
    • Experience Conference for Catering and Events - A premier summer event offering immersive education and networking opportunities for catering and event professionals.
    • Professional Certification - NACE members may demonstrate their commitment to professionalism and integrity by pursuing their Certified Professional in Catering and Events (CPCE) designation. 
     

    Education

       

    Membership

     

    Membership

    • Discounted pricing on all NACE Houston Chapter events.
    • Exclusive member-only events that offer unique networking and learning experiences.
    • Access to a nationwide directory of NACE members for collaboration and business opportunities.
    • Eligibility to apply local and national awards to showcase achievements.
    • Opportunity to apply for scholarships to cover costs for education and certifications.
    • A strong, supportive community of industry professionals committed to growth and excellence.
       

    Community Service

    • NACE Houston actively gives back to the community through various initiatives and partnerships. 
    • Annual NACEgiving Event - A special fundraising event where we select a local charity, and all proceeds go toward supporting its mission.
    • Volunteer opportunities that allow members to engage in meaningful service while strengthening industry connections.
    • Encouraging social responsibility by supporting organizations that align with our values.  
     

    Community Service

      

    Fundraising

     

    Fundraising

    • Events and sponsorships that help sustain and grow our Chapter's initiatives. 
    • Trends Event - This annual event held in the spring showcases cutting-edge industry trends while raising funds for educational programming and scholarship opportunities.
    • Awards Gala - A night of celebration recognizing outstanding local professionals while raising funds to continue NACE Houston's mission. 
    • Partnerships with industry sponsors to provide high-quality events and resources for members. 

     

    Recognizing Excellence - National and Local Awards

    All NACE members are encouraged to apply! Whether you're aiming for a national honor or a local accolade, these awards highlight your dedication and talent in the industry.  

     

    NACE One Awards Experience

     

     

    NACE One Awards

    These are hosted by NACE National at the Experience Conference every summer. These prestigious awards recognize excellence in event production, catering and industry leadership on a national level. 

    With categories for individuals, teams, businesses, and NACE chapters, there's a perfect fit for every kind of catering and event professional.

    Interested in learning more about the NACE One Awards? Explore All Categories and Criteria here!

       

    NACE Houston Chapter Awards

    The NACE Houston Chapter Awards Gala, held every September, celebrates the outstanding achievements of our Houston members across various categories. This annual event provides a meaningful platform for recognition within our local community and highlights the incredible talent and dedication of our Chapter.

    Interested in learning more about the NACE Houston Chapter Awards Gala?  Explore the Categories, Criteria and past Awards Winners here!

     NACE Houston Chapter Local Awards

     

      The Foundation of NACE

      The Foundation of NACE advances the catering and events industry through scholarships that help both future and current professionals. Since 2008, The Foundation of NACE has awarded more than $100,000.00 those pursuing or advancing careers in catering and events. These scholarships provide aid that supports tuition, travel, leadership training and professional development to those who want a career in the catering and events industry. For more information go to the Foundation of NACE website.

       

      NACE Houston is proud to be one of the most recognized hospitality and event industry networking groups in Houston. Whether you are a wedding vendor, corporate event professional, caterer, or venue partner, our Chapter provides meaningful connections, education, and opportunities to grow within the Houston hospitality community.

       

      Now It's Your Turn!

      If you believe in your career and the events industry, if you believe in the value of education, networking, information and resources, and if you believe that individuals can accomplish more together than alone, NACE is for you. By working together, there are no limits to what we can accomplish for our profession, our employers and our customers. Become a Member today!