DFW NACE Fundraiser at TX Whiskey Ranch

DFW NACE Annual Fundraiser at TX Whiskey Ranch: A Night of Giving Back

Each year, DFW NACE (National Association for Catering and Events) hosts an unforgettable evening that brings together the best in the Dallas–Fort Worth events industry. This year’s annual fundraiser at TX Whiskey Ranch was more than just an elegant corporate event—it was a celebration of community, generosity, and the power of gathering for a greater cause.

The 2025 benefit supported Cowtown Warriors, a Fort Worth nonprofit serving wounded and disabled veterans. With a mix of world-class catering, spirited competitions, live entertainment, and signature Texas hospitality, the night highlighted why DFW corporate events have the unique ability to make a lasting impact.

A Venue with Purpose: TX Whiskey Ranch

Perched on a hilltop overlooking downtown Fort Worth, TX Whiskey Ranch offered the perfect backdrop for this high-energy fundraiser. Guests were welcomed with sweeping views, an exclusive whiskey tasting experience, and the kind of Texan charm that makes every gathering feel larger than life.

For many attendees, it wasn’t just about the whiskey—it was about being part of something meaningful. Hosting the event at TX Whiskey, a brand deeply connected to Fort Worth culture, underscored the evening’s blend of local pride and philanthropic spirit.

Fundraising with Heart

At the core of the night was a shared mission: raising funds and awareness for Cowtown Warriors. From the first pour to the final song, every element was designed to connect attendees with the cause.

• The silent auction, organized by Auction & Event Solutions, featured one-of-a-kind items and experiences that kept bidding lively all evening.
• A spirited 50/50 drawing gave guests a chance to win big while giving back.
• Even the games, like the crowd-favorite round of Heads or Tails, sparked friendly competition in the name of fundraising.

It wasn’t just about writing checks—it was about creating moments that reminded everyone of the strength of community and the importance of supporting our veterans.

Culinary Excellence on Display

One of the most anticipated elements of the DFW NACE fundraiser is always the caterers’ cook-off, and this year’s lineup did not disappoint. Some of the most talented chefs and catering teams in Fort Worth showcased their skills, delivering bold flavors and creative presentations that wowed the crowd.

From smoked barbecue to refined global bites, the competition highlighted the diversity of the DFW culinary scene. Guests sampled plates from catering leaders like Wolfgang Puck Catering, Vestals Catering, Naborly Provisions, and Reata Restaurant, just to name a few. Each dish carried the signature flair that makes Fort Worth catering both world-class and unmistakably Texan.

The night proved that food isn’t just sustenance—it’s an experience, and in this case, an essential ingredient in bringing people together for a good cause.

Entertainment & Activations

No DFW corporate event is complete without unforgettable entertainment, and this evening struck the perfect balance of fun and sophistication.

• SMITH Band set the tone with live music that kept energy high throughout the night.
• Guests tried their hand at cattle roping and joined in line dancing lessons, adding a playful Texas twist to the evening.
• The hat bar and jewelry experience by Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott gave attendees a chance to leave with custom keepsakes.
• Signature cocktails and mocktails created by TX Whiskey and other spirit partners kept glasses full and spirits higher.

Together, these activations transformed the fundraiser into an immersive experience—one that celebrated both Texas culture and the art of corporate event design.

Why This Event Stood Out

As a corporate event photographer in DFW, it’s easy to see when an event transcends logistics and becomes something more. This fundraiser at TX Whiskey Ranch did exactly that. It wasn’t just about the music, food, or even the whiskey—it was about creating an atmosphere where every guest felt connected to the cause.

Through candid photography, we were able to capture not only the stunning event design but also the authentic moments: veterans sharing stories, caterers serving with pride, and attendees laughing over friendly games. These are the images that remind us why events like this matter long after the night ends.

Vendor Team That Made It Possible

Behind every seamless corporate event is a powerhouse team of vendors and creative partners. The DFW NACE fundraiser brought together some of the very best in the industry:

VENUE
TX Whiskey Ranch

RENTALS  
Shag Carpet Prop Rentals
Boozy Bar Dallas

ENTERTAINMENT
SMITH Band

SILENT AUCTION
Auction & Event Solutions

PHOTO BOOTH
DFW 360 Booths
209 Photo Booth Company

PHOTOGRAPHY
The MacMeekens Photography

VIDEOGRAPHY
Bridges Cinema 

ACTIVATIONS
Idea Fountain Inc.
Texas Entertainment Group
Encore Productions

JEWELRY & HAT BAR 
Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott

CATERERS
Wolfgang Puck Catering
Beyond the Box Catering
Naborly Provisions
Vestals Catering
Low Country Quisine
Food Glorious Food
Yelibelly Chocolates
Reata Restaurant
Creative Cuisine
Terry Black’s BBQ

SPIRITS
TX Whiskey
Sonoma Time Rose
Archer Roose Wines
Silver Star Vodka
Devil’s Grin Gin
Community Beer
La Pulga Tequila

PARTY SUPPLIES
Custom Ink 

PIPE & DRAPE
Quest Events

AUDIO VISUAL
Diversified Media Production Group

SIGNAGE
SpeedPro

The Bigger Picture

Events like the DFW NACE fundraiser prove that corporate events in DFW are more than networking opportunities or celebrations—they’re platforms for impact. By blending hospitality, entertainment, and philanthropy, the night raised both awareness and funds for veterans who have given so much.

For organizations considering hosting their own benefit, gala, or appreciation event, this evening at TX Whiskey is a reminder of how powerful the right venue, vendors, and purpose-driven programming can be.

As corporate event photographers, we love documenting events where every detail has meaning. The 2025 DFW NACE fundraiser at TX Whiskey Ranch wasn’t just a beautiful evening—it was a testament to the power of community and giving back.

If you’re planning a DFW corporate event and want it documented with the same care and artistry, we’d love to connect. From candid storytelling to polished detail shots, our goal is to capture the energy, emotion, and impact of your event in a way that lasts long after the final toast.