Speakers 2027
The education opportunities at Cater+Event feature presentations from more than 100 industry luminaries who have been there, done that, and are armed with content that’s trendy, thought-provoking, and always influential.
Jennifer Ball, Master Wedding Planner, KNOT YOUR AVERAGE EVENTS (& TRAVEL)
Jennifer Ball is an award-winning Master Wedding Planner, educator, speaker, and the owner of Knot Your Average Events, where she has spent the past 28 years transforming wedding visions into unforgettable celebrations. Known throughout the industry as "The Wedding Whisperer" and "The Coordinating Ninja," Jennifer is recognized for her ability to blend meticulous logistics with heartfelt storytelling, creating seamless experiences that leave lasting impressions. One of only 54 Master Wedding Planners in the world, Jennifer serves as the North Carolina State Director for the Association of Bridal Consultants, where she mentors wedding professionals and champions excellence across the industry. She is passionate about elevating the profession through education, leadership, and collaboration. A lifelong educator, Jennifer spent 13 years as an adjunct professor at UNC Greensboro, High Point University, and Alamance Community College, preparing future hospitality and event professionals for successful careers. Today, she continues that mission from the conference stage, speaking on topics including client experience, business strategy, leadership, pricing, risk management, succession planning, destination weddings, and creating unforgettable guest experiences. Jennifer's work has been featured on FOX8's Roy's Folks, in national wedding publications, blogs, and the book Planners Unplugged. She has planned celebrations for everyone from hometown couples to high-profile entrepreneurs, including the inventors of the Savannah Bananas, and has earned the trust of the Kleinfeld Bridal family. Respected for her servant leadership, contagious enthusiasm, and practical approach, Jennifer believes that great wedding planners do far more than execute timelines—they build relationships, solve problems before they happen, and create experiences that couples and guests remember for a lifetime. Whether mentoring fellow professionals or coordinating a wedding day, her mission remains the same: to inspire others to lead with confidence, serve with excellence, and leave every celebration better than they found it.