The annual ILEA Cleveland Wedding Event focusing on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in weddings and events featuring a presentation from Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) Greg DeShields.
The presentation will include an in-depth look at DEI and how to gain a better understanding of the barriers that many of us face in today's world while learning the tools needed to remove these barriers to inclusion and lead culture change in everyday life and in the events/hospitality industry.
In addition to the presentation, you will be able to immerse yourself in specially curated culturally diverse designed wedding spaces and traditions designed by some of our local event and wedding planners.
About Our Speaker:
Greg DeShields is a seasoned tourism and hospitality professional with designations as a Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) and Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE). Currently, DeShields serves as the Executive Director of Tourism Diversity Matters. With over 30 years of experience, he is able to develop and implement plans, strategies, and initiatives specifically designed to raise destinations image for diverse, multicultural travel. His knowledge and demonstrated cultural competence is able to position an organization/company to break down the systemic barriers.
Curated Spaces Planners:
Nora Culley-Tuck with Engaged with Nora
Lisha Navarro with The Elite Event Co.
* Check back for additional planners to be added.
Event Schedule:
6pm - 7pm: Registration, Networking, Explore Art Galleries
7pm - 8pm: Program
8pm - 9pm: Networking and Explore Curated Spaces
This event is open to both members and non-members both in-person and virtual. Doors open at 6pm for in-person networking with appetizers included in the in-person ticket price. The educational portion of the event will begin at 7pm with Q&A and additional networking at the conclusion of the event.
Included in your in-person ticket price will be a delicious appetizer spread where you can savor the tastes, textures, and aromas of the food prepared with the freshest seasonal ingredients all while enjoying some amazing education and networking opportunities. Beer & wine available - credit/debit card only.
ILEA Members only benefit is free round-trip shuttle service from a Cleveland location (TBD) to Akron courtesy of Statement Limousine - must be selected at checkout. In-person member ticket also includes one drink ticket .
Tickets:
In-Person
ILEA Cleveland Members: $30.00
ILEA Cleveland Associate Member (Employee of a Member Company): $35.00
Future or Non-Member: $50.00
Student Member: $15.00
Virtual
ILEA Cleveland Members: $15.00
ILEA Cleveland Associate Member (Employee of a Member Company): $20.00
Future or Non-Member: $25.00
Student Member: $5.00
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Event Sponsors:
DJ/Entertainment: DJ Nick Duve
Transportation: Statement Limousine
Photography & Videography/Live Stream: One Red Door Photo and Cinema
Interactive Entertainment: Clear Choice Photo Booth
Interactive Entertainment: Anna Hoopes Music
Live Event Painting: Art by Ali
Linens: Lasting Impressions Event Rental
Favors: Gifting Matters
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Event Partners:
Venue: Akron Art Museum
* Event sponsors will be updated as additional sponsors come on board. Interested in being a sponsor contact Ryan Harmon at ryan@lirents.net
COVID-19 Protocols
By purchasing an event ticket, you acknowledge that you understand and will abide by all the health and safety procedures. In addition, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19 and do not hold event sponsors liable for any health-related issues.
We reserve the right to deny entrance to anyone exhibiting any of the symptoms:
− Fever (equal to or higher than 100.4°F) or chills
− Cough − Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
− Fatigue
− Muscle or body aches
− Headache
− New loss of taste or smell
− Sore throat
− Congestion or runny nose
Per venue, masking is required for all attendees; vaccinated or non-vaccinated.
Return of the Pre-Event Health Survey is required before arriving at the event
We appreciate your understanding of the measures taken for your protection and the protection of other attendees.