Speakers 2026
The education opportunities at Catersource + The Special 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.
Kawania Wooten, CMP, Principal Consultant, Howerton+Wooten Events & The Enlightened Creative
With 30 years of experience shaping conferences and high-end events for Washington DC’s elite, Kawania Wooten, CMP seamlessly blends her expertise in event management with her early culinary industry experience. As an industry innovator, she continuously elevates standards in event planning by infusing artistry, meticulous attention to detail, and a steadfast commitment to unparalleled client experiences. As the visionary founder of Howerton+Wooten Events, Kawania champions professionalism, creativity, and flawless execution as core pillars of her business. Her leadership fosters an environment where cutting-edge ideas meet impeccable service, setting new benchmarks in democratizing luxury. A recognized thought leader, Kawania brought her knowledge to the classroom for eight years, where she taught courses like “Fundamentals of Convention and Event Management” and "Hospitality Entrepreneurship" at Prince George’s Community College. Her award-winning contributions to meeting planning and her company’s celebrated client care have solidified her reputation as a driving force in the industry. Kawania has authored nine wedding planning guidebooks, and she is currently working on book #10. Her advice has been featured in major publications, such as the New York Times, New York Post, Refinery 29, Wall Street Journal, EBONY, Yahoo News, Headline News, Martha Stewart Weddings, and ESSENCE magazine. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Media Arts from Hampton University in Virginia, and she participated in the Harvard Business School’s Executive Management Program in June of 2005 under the auspices of the Cable & Telecommunications Association for Marketing.