In a significant recognition of her unwavering commitment to education and leadership within the event industry, Meghan Ely, CWIP, founder and president of OFD Consulting LLC, has been honored with the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) Speaker of the Year award. This prestigious accolade underscores Ely’s impactful contributions to the field of event education and her role as a thought leader in wedding public relations.
A Trailblazer in Wedding Public Relations
Meghan Ely’s journey in the wedding industry began with a passion for storytelling and a keen understanding of the nuances of event planning. In 2009, she established OFD Consulting, one of the first PR agencies in the United States dedicated exclusively to the wedding industry. Under her leadership, the firm has become synonymous with excellence in wedding publicity, securing client features in esteemed publications such as The New York Times, Brides, Martha Stewart Weddings, People, and Style Me Pretty.
Beyond traditional PR services, Ely launched the OFD Collective, a pioneering PR membership platform that connects wedding professionals with media opportunities, providing them with the tools and guidance to elevate their brand visibility.
Commitment to Education and Industry Advancement
Ely’s dedication to education is evident in her extensive involvement with industry associations and conferences. She has served in various leadership roles, including National President of the Wedding Industry Professionals Association (WIPA) and Inaugural Chair of WIPA’s Leadership Development Council. Her commitment extends to her current roles on the Allied Council for the National Society of Black Wedding and Event Professionals and as an active member of the RSVP Club and Emerge Event Collective.
As a sought-after speaker, Meghan Ely has presented at numerous industry events, including Wedding MBA, Engage!, Destination Wedding Congress, NACE, Signature CEO and Coterie Retreat Experience. Her sessions are known for their actionable insights and practical strategies, empowering wedding professionals to navigate the evolving landscape of event publicity and marketing.
Recognition by NACE
The NACE Speaker of the Year award is a testament to Ely’s influence and excellence in event education. This honor reflects her ability to engage audiences with compelling content, her dedication to fostering professional growth among peers, and her innovative approach to wedding public relations.
Ely’s contributions have not only advanced the knowledge base within the industry but have also inspired countless professionals to pursue excellence in their practices. Her recognition by NACE serves as an acknowledgment of her role in shaping the future of event education and her unwavering commitment to the betterment of the industry.
Looking Ahead
With this accolade, Meghan Ely continues to set the standard for excellence in wedding public relations and event education. Her work exemplifies the impact of dedicated leadership and the importance of sharing knowledge to uplift the entire industry.
As the event landscape continues to evolve, Ely’s insights and guidance remain invaluable resources for professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of modern event planning and publicity.
For more information about Meghan Ely and her work with OFD Consulting, visit https://ofdconsulting.com/team/meghan-ely/.
