The 2010 Special Event Conference & Tradeshow (TSE) is fast approaching – January 12- 15^th in New Orleans, Louisiana at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

I look forward to attending TSE each year for the latest in education, professional networking with event professionals from all over the WORLD and amazing trends in event design, production and food & beverage.  TSE offers over 100 sessions in 8 different tracks focused on, Business and Professional Development, Food Services, Event Management, Sales and Marketing, Design, Wedding Trends, Event Tools and Resources, and ISES.

If you are looking for more points toward your CSEP or CMP certifications, attending TSE will earn you some points toward it or for recertification. 

TSE  also has an incredible tradeshow to experience new products hands on and meet vendors face to face.  The tradeshow will also feature the latest Tabletop Design Competition. You can register for a complimentary pass to the tradeshow floor only here – Registration.

There are a lots of registration options this year. You can register for a one day educational pass or you can pick one session or go for the full conference package.  This makes The Special Event Conference and Tradeshow a conference you can’t afford to miss!

For more information about TSE, the Educational Sessions, Speakers and Events  go to www.thespecialeventshow.com.

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You can earn various certifications in event/meeting planning, that result in designations such as CSEP, CMP, CMM, CPCE, the list goes on.  (I will define a certification each Friday in my “Alphabet Soup”).  There are several organizations and schools offering certifications and certificates.  Before you spend the money, be sure you know exactly what you are earning at the end of your class or seminar.  Your future goals in the hospitality industry can help you decide whether to pursue Certification or a Certificate and in what!

This handout found on the ISES (International Special Events Society) website – www.isesatlanta.com is one of the best documents I have ever read that clearly indicates the differences between “Certification vs. Certificate” and the value of each.  You can find this at http://www.ises.com/pdf/Certification_vs_Certificate.pdf

I always use this handout during my Event Planning Certificate Open House for my course so that the students know exactly what they are earning when taking my course and what they can earn in the future. I hope it is helpful to you!

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