Catering and Convention Service Survival Guide in Hotels and Casinos

The role of the catering and convention service manager (CCSM) is diverse and must juggle event components. This book imparts authors' in-depth knowledge of what a CCSM does, what emotional and technical skills are required, how to relate to planners, and execute contracts. It covers communication, food and beverage information, banquet service styles, menu planning, and event space setup standards. Included are best practices of working with nonprofits, social, wedding, association, corporate, VIP, celebrity events, and tradeshows. The authors also discuss how this industry operates within casino properties. Then, the revenue upsell opportunities for all stakeholders, industry accounting, and the paperwork that pulls it all together.

Lisa Lynn Backus, CPCE, CMP, has been with Caesars Entertainment in Las Vegas since 2005. She is a senior CCSM at the Rio All-Suites Hotel & Casino, after positions at Caesars Palace and Bally's/Paris. Other stops include Lake Vas Vegas Resort, Riviera Resort and Spa in Palm Springs, several Marriott properties, and Queen Mary Seaport. She owned a destination management company in California from 1988 to 1995. She has been active in the National Association of Catering and Events (NACE), served as local chapter president, and received awards for her participation and her creative events. Lisa has also been involved with The International School of Hospitality (TISOH) as an instructor, guest speaker, and mentor.

Patti J. Shock, CPCE, CHT, is the academic consultant for The International School of Hospitality. She holds the rank of professor emeritus at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where she taught catering and conventions for 25 years. Previously, she taught at Georgia State University, and currently teaches online for Florida International University and Kennesaw State University. Among her awards, she was the first NACE ICON from the National Association for Catering and Events, and was inducted into the Convention Industry Council Hall of Leaders in 2014. Additional information is available on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/pattishock