About

With 30 years of experience in the industry, CMC is a trusted, full-service meeting and conference planning company dedicated to delivering exceptional results. CMC has built a strong reputation for reliability, professionalism, and personalized service.

We specialize in comprehensive event management as well as flexible à la carte services tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. Whether you require full-scale conference planning or targeted support in specific areas, CMC customizes solutions that align with your goals, timeline, and budget.

At CMC, we pride ourselves on eliminating unnecessary layers that can complicate success. Our personalized, hands-on approach ensures efficiency, clarity, and cost savings for every client. We act as true conference professionals—managing the details so you can focus on your goals.

Our services include:

  • Contract negotiation
  • Speaker coordination
  • Registration management
  • Marketing and graphic design
  • Website design
  • Event mobile app development

Whether you are planning a conference, corporate event, or professional meeting, CMC delivers customized solutions tailored to your unique objectives.

Contact us today to discuss a strategic plan designed specifically for your next event.

Meet the Founder

In 1996, Karen Crawford founded CMC & Associates with a clear purpose: to elevate the standard of meeting and conference management through integrity, strategy, and an unwavering commitment to client success. What began as a Florida-based meeting planning firm serving government agencies quickly expanded nationwide, fueled by referrals and a reputation for delivering exceptional results.

As client needs evolved, Karen led CMC’s transformation into a full-service management firm. The company expanded to offer comprehensive conference management, transportation training modules, guidance in laws, rules, and ethics, association management, leadership development, and housing management services. In 2001, the company incorporated as Crawford Marketing and Consulting, Inc., marking a new chapter of strategic growth. Each expansion has been intentional—driven by innovation, responsiveness, and a commitment to delivering premium outcomes within defined budget parameters.

With more than 35 years of experience in hospitality management, Karen brings seasoned insight and executive-level negotiation expertise to every engagement. As a former Director of Sales in the hotel industry, she developed a sharp understanding of contracts, property positioning, and revenue strategy—skills that give her clients a distinct advantage. Her earlier experience as a Sales Manager and Lobbyist for Gulf Stream International Airlines further strengthened her ability to navigate complex negotiations and advocate effectively on behalf of her clients.

Karen’s deep knowledge of hotel operations, food and beverage management, and budgeting enables organizations to maximize impact without exceeding financial constraints. She is known for consistently delivering high-quality, memorable events while maintaining disciplined financial oversight.

Under Karen’s leadership, CMC has built a culture defined by integrity, precision, and resilience. The team works seamlessly behind the scenes, allowing clients to remain confidently in control while minimizing stress. Now a second-generation company, CMC continues to grow through trusted partnerships, repeat business, and a steadfast philosophy that guides every project: Our job is to make you look good. 

Karen’s vision, strategic insight, and genuine dedication to her clients remain the foundation of CMC’s enduring success.

Karen Crawford
Founder of CMC & Associates.