11/06/2025
💬 A Message from ALWEP President James Coats:
I’ve been honored to be an ALWEP member for almost 20 years – and even more honored to have served 11 of those years as president. During that time, I’ve remained deeply committed to our core missions of Networking, Continuing Education, and Collective Marketing, and proud to have served alongside multiple extraordinary groups of board members who share that same passion.
I was preceded in this office by Mark Lawley, Geoff Carlisle, Barry Altmark, Andy Tolar, John Deaver, and Danny Brewer – each of whom taught me something unique about leadership, service, and stewardship. I’ve tried to carry forward the best of what I learned from them while helping guide ALWEP into its next chapter. It is now my distinct honor to continue that tradition by nominating Mr. Bill Facella, Director of Private Events at "The Club", as my successor.
When ALWEP faced one of its most challenging seasons in 2020 – in the middle of a global pandemic and a major turnover in our membership – Bill was one of the first to raise his hand. With more than half of our board suddenly gone, ALWEP needed leadership and stability. Bill stepped up, serving as Secretary and later as Vice President of Programming, excelling in both roles. I’ve watched him lead our organization with the same integrity, professionalism, and enthusiasm that he brings to his team at "The Club".
👓 Looking Back and Looking Forward
Serving as ALWEP president has been one of the great honors of my professional life. But over the past couple of years, the time demands of a family and two growing businesses – 375 miles apart! – have made it increasingly difficult to give ALWEP the full attention it deserves. The time is right to pass the baton.
I’m particularly excited about many of our recent accomplishments – transitioning to six yearly meetings with high-caliber programming, a new website that’s about to launch, and new social media coordination now underway (stay tuned!). These steps will strengthen our visibility, engagement, and value for members, and I couldn’t be prouder of the momentum our organization has built.
I’m also thrilled about the continued growth of Coats Classic Cars and Oak Hill Farm, as well as a recent surge in opportunities for me to share insights as a client experience speaker and business consultant. Still, I’m not quite done helping ALWEP grow.
💼 Continuing to Serve
As provided in our bylaws, I will remain on the Board of Directors, transitioning into the Past President role — a position faithfully held for the past 11 years by Mr. Andy Tolar.
I want to personally thank Andy for his leadership and long-term commitment to ALWEP; he is the longest-serving board member in our organization’s history. I look forward to following in his footsteps, occasionally filling in to lead meetings, and continuing to have a voice in the direction of an organization I deeply believe in.
💡 Your Turn to Get Involved
ALWEP Members — Bill needs your help.
The floor is now open for nominations to fill our 2026 Board of Directors.
You may nominate yourself or someone else for the following positions:
• President (additional nominations accepted)
• Vice President of Programming
• Vice President of Marketing
• Vice President of Membership
• Treasurer
• Secretary
At our meeting on December 2nd, we will vote on any position that receives more than one nomination. Your participation matters — please consider how your time, ideas, and expertise can help shape ALWEP’s future.
🙏 Thank You
Thank you for supporting ALWEP — and for supporting me. Thank you for paying your dues, showing up, volunteering, sharing ideas, and making our network stronger year after year. It has truly been an honor to serve you, and I’m excited for what comes next.
I’m looking forward to seeing you all on Tuesday, December 2nd at Avenue D [note special date], where national speaker Margaux Fraise will present “Stop Working Harder, Start Working Smarter: AI for Wedding Pros.” What a perfect topic to close out 2025, and begin a new era!
Best Regards,
James Coats
President, Alabama Wedding and Event Professionals (ALWEP)
2015–2025
