Catersource + The Special Event Schedule 2026
Designing Waste-Free Events: A Profitable Path to Sustainability
Liz Mullen (Culinary Director, Chowgirls Catering)
Annie Pennings Edmond (Event Design and Sustainability Manager, Chowgirls Catering)
Location: 304ABC
Date: Wednesday, March 4
Time: 9:00 am - 9:45 am
Pass Type: All Access, Catersource Conference Pass, Combined CS/TSE Conference Pass - Get your pass now!
Track: CS-Sustainability, CS-Trends, Events & Design
Vault Recording: TBD
Audience Level: All
The average wedding produces around 400 pounds of trash, but it doesn't have to. Join Liz Mullen and Annie Pennings Edmond from Chowgirls Catering, pioneers of sustainable hospitality, to talk all things event waste. Experts in catering with a conscience, Chowgirls has reimagined event design with sustainability at its core. With over two decades of experience, trial, and error they've learned a thing or two on how waste-free events aren't only possible but also profitable.
In this session, you'll gain actionable insights and inspiring ideas to reduce waste without compromising on style or guest experience. From the behind-the-scenes logistics of clearing stations and staff training to guest-facing aesthetics like cohesive tablescapes and purposeful décor, Liz and Annie will show how thoughtful planning and creative design can help you stand out in a competitive industry, all while doing right by the planet.