Michael Roman and Meryl Snow, Catersource 2010.
SUCCESSFUL SELLING By Meryl Snow
A Final Farewell
I t was a Monday in January 1987 when Andy and I, young and eager new caterers, found ourselves sitting in the front row at a conference, filled with excitement and anticipation. As we watched a larger-than-life figure take the stage, it felt as though he was speaking directly to us—answering our questions, understanding our struggles, and easing our fears. That conference was called Off Prem, and the man on stage was Michael Roman—someone who would soon become a mentor, guide, and ultimately, a dear friend. Michael was more than a catering coach; he became a trusted advisor and an inspiration. In 1992, Off Prem became Catersource Conference & Tradeshow, and that’s when Michael invited me onto the stage beside him—a moment I felt completely unprepared for. But he saw something in me that I didn’t yet see in myself. He told me I was the voice of the 500 caterers in the room, and he reminded me often that one day, it would be my turn to give back to the industry. And so, for the past several decades, catering has been more than just a career—it has been my passion, my livelihood, and my community. Andy and I built Feastivities and our subsidiaries with dedication and heart, creating memories with our team and clients that I will always cherish. Just as the catering industry continues to evolve, so too does my own journey. Among the many rewarding aspects of this journey, one of the greatest has been the
I pass the baton knowing that the future of special events is in exceptional hands, and I can’t wait to see where you take it.”
your businesses, and collaborating directly with your companies and teams. These relationships, experiences, and shared successes have been the foundation of a career that I hold dear. This year also marks a personal milestone for Andy and me. We’ve said goodbye to our spacious suburban home and embraced a new, more liberated lifestyle in a cozy city condo. This change signifies more than just a move— it represents a shift toward new priorities, where we can dedicate more time to what truly matters: traveling, cherishing moments with our three grandchildren, and fully embracing life. Now, as I take a step back, I do so with a mix of excitement and nostalgia, knowing that the industry I love is in capable hands. While I will miss the daily energy and interactions, I look forward to new opportunities while continuing to support the industry in other ways. As I transition into this next chapter, I do so with full confidence in the next generation of caterers and event professionals. This new wave of talent is driven, innovative, and brimming with passion. They are embracing new technologies, pushing creative boundaries, and redefining what’s possible in catering and events. Their fresh ideas, relentless drive, and fearless ambition are shaping the future of our industry in ways we never could have imagined.
I have had the privilege of watching many of you rise—learning, evolving, and stepping into leadership roles with confidence and vision. Just as the generation before us laid the foundation, I have no doubt that today’s rising stars will take it even further, building an industry that is stronger, more dynamic, and more resilient than ever before. I pass the baton knowing that the future of special events is in exceptional hands, and I can’t wait to see where you take it. Looking back, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. The connections formed, the experiences shared, and the memories created have been the heart of my career. To my colleagues, mentors, collaborators, and friends—thank you. Your support has meant the world to me, and while I may be stepping back, I will always remain a part of this incredible industry. Here’s to the growth, camaraderie, and success—and to the bright future that awaits this next generation of catering and event professionals. I’ll be cheering you on every step of the way!
With 30 years of experience owning
event planning, high-end catering, and design and décor companies, Meryl Snow is on a mission to help businesses get on their own path
to success. As a Senior Consultant for Certified Catering Consultants and a Senior Consultant & Sales Trainer for SnowStorm Solutions .
opportunity to work alongside talented caterers—speaking at conferences, being invited into
CATERSOURCE ■ SPRING 2025
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