Meet
The GROW Expo Team
Working together to make your experience better.
Alicia "Ali" Richards
Executive Director
Ali is the Founder and Executive Director of GROW Expo and the owner of Rooted Treasures HTX. With over 20 years of experience in sales and event planning, Ali is known for creating community-driven events that blend structure, strategy, and impact. She also brings nearly two decades of leadership with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and seven years of nonprofit fundraising experience supporting University of Houston scholarships.
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Trenda Idrissi
Engagement Director
Trenda Idrissi is the Engagement Director for GROW Expo, where she leads event programming, decor, and attendee experience. She is the owner of Silver Leaf Cleaning Services and serves on the board for Mercer Botanic Gardens. Known for her creativity and heart for community, Trenda creates engaging, welcoming experiences that connect people and elevate events.
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Shawn York
Logistics Director
Shawn York is the Logistics Director for GROW Expo, where he oversees event layout, operations, and execution. With a Bachelor’s degree in Logistics and over 14 years of experience as a Senior Maintenance Planner at Tenaris, Shawn brings strong organizational and problem-solving skills to every event. He is also an active volunteer and passionate supporter of youth and community initiatives.
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Steffany Rivera
Marketing Director
Our Marketing Director is the creative force behind the magic you see at every turn. With a deep passion for the natural world and a sharp eye for brand strategy, they lead the vision that brings our community of plant lovers, nature enthusiasts, and botanical vendors together under one roof. From digital campaigns and social media storytelling to event branding they craft the experiences that transform a gathering into a destination. Equal parts strategist and storyteller, our Marketing Director doesn't just promote the expo — they breathe life into it.
Brianna Chan Bravo
Volunteer Director
Brianna oversees volunteer coordination from start to finish, recruiting volunteers, communicating schedules and expectations, assigning roles, and making sure the event is properly supported so everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. When she’s not planning events, you’ll usually find her tending to her growing plant collection and connecting with the local plant community!
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Jerod Blackman
Hospitality Director
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As Hospitality Director for The GROW Expo, Jerod focuses on creating an elevated experience for VIPs, influencers, and special guests. Serving as a key liaison between leadership and attendees, he helps ensure every interaction is welcoming, well-coordinated, and memorable.
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Elaina Salas
Assistant Operations Director
Elaina plays an essential role in keeping events and day-to-day operations running smoothly behind the scenes. Her dedication, reliability, and positive attitude make her an invaluable part of the GROW community. Whether she’s assisting vendors, supporting volunteers, organizing operations, or contributing creative ideas, Elaina approaches every task with heart and compassion.
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