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.
Deborah Elias, CSEP, CMP, CIS, President, Elias Events
Deborah Elias, CSEP, CMP, CIS, is an accomplished event planner with over two decades of experience. As the founder of Elias Events, LLC in Houston, Texas, Deborah has successfully executed an extensive array of standout events both across the United States and internationally. Her career is marked by numerous awards and accolades, underscoring her steadfast dedication to excellence. Deborah's expertise is further highlighted by her professional designations: Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP), and Incentive Travel Specialist (CIS). In addition to her event planning acumen, Deborah has made significant contributions to the industry through her active involvement in various boards and organizations. She served as president of the Houston Chapter of the International Live Events Association (ILEA), playing a key role in shaping the local event scene. Her commitment extends to her work with the SEARCH Foundation and the Texas Meeting and Events Advisory Board, where she continues to make a meaningful impact. Deborah's passion for sharing knowledge is evident in her contributions to industry publications. Her articles have appeared in prominent outlets such as Connect Magazine, The Special Event Magazine, Plan It Meetings Magazine, Meetings Management Magazine, and Texas Meeting and Events Magazine, solidifying her status as a thought leader. As a dynamic and engaging speaker, Deborah has presented at numerous industry conferences, sharing her insights on Event Innovations. Her speaking engagements include The Special Event, ILEA Houston, SITE (Society for Incentive Travel Excellence), PRSA (Public Relations Society of America), IMEX, and IBTM (Incentive Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition), where she enthusiastically explores cutting-edge event planning strategies. Deborah's unwavering dedication and passion for event planning have cemented her reputation as a respected and influential leader in the field. Her commitment to creating memorable, impactful events is evident in every project she undertakes, showcasing her as a true visionary in the industry.