Two Cents on Events

Calling All Chefs

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 19:06:00 GMT

Calling All Chefs

For some time now, we have seen the rise of the celebrity chef. With the myriad of chef competition shows and television networks dedicated solely to food, countless chefs have become household names.   These celebrity chefs now permeate everything including the events industry, driving how we approach menu creation, to delivering the food that helps elevate the entire evening’s experience.

For instance, when creating a sophisticated dining experience in Napa Valley, consider bringing in any one of the area’s famous chefs such as Michael Chiarello, Cinidy Paulson or Christopher Kostow to create a customized multi-course tasting menu for a one-of-a-kind elegant dining experience not soon to be forgotten by your guests.

Got a chef with personality? Add him to the guest list! We just produced a dinner party for a client that included an amazing reception menu, specialty bars, casino games, darts, and dancing, but the highlight…Duff Goldman.   With his charming personality, Duff meant something different to every guest. Some were “huge fans” themselves, some were dads with daughters that claimed to be “his biggest fans EVER.” Some just wanted to talk about their mutual appreciation for the Baltimore Ravens. Duff’s inviting personality and smile never wavered, endearing himself to everyone and giving the evening that warm personal flavor.

These are just two of the scenarios that evoke once-in-a-lifetime experiences your guests will talk about for years to come. Who knows what celebrity type will capture the public’s imagination next.   For now Chefs reign! Embrace it…invite them to the party!

- Michele, Account Executive

Is that a cello on my plate?

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 17:55:00 GMT

Is that a cello on my plate?

We’ve been seeing video incorporated into event décor for a while now. 360-degree video and projections on to buildings have been the start. The technology is catching up with the wildly imaginative minds of the designers hatching the ideas.

Now just about anything can have a video component…
Wearable video…All of your guests wear a video screen nametag!
Mobile Video…A bicyclist rides a double-sided video screen through your party! Virtual Band…Each band member is displayed on his/her own 60” vertical screen!

One of my favorite overall displays of video was at a recent event we produced, the grand opening galas for the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts. The first night gala venue was a large ballroom with pristine white undulating walls on three sides; the perfect canvas for video projection. Custom video content was created melding footage of artists of all kinds with an accompanying natural element that was re-imagined graphically and programmed to react and respond to the live music from the band. The entire room was alive and interacting.

The forth wall was glass facing the Kauffman Center building which became the surface for external video projection matching the inside walls, completing the imagery on a grand scale.

The second night gala venue was the theatre stage inside the performing arts center. Not many venues offer endless ceiling height with a grid of hanging points, the perfect set up to offer video projection from above the guest’s heads. Custom video content was showcased via individual projectors per table and programmed to exactly match the plates, centerpieces and other tabletop elements. Each table became a living canvas.

The options are endless. Put your thinking cap on. If you think it, undoubtedly it can be done.

- Michele, Account Executive

Décor "Above" The Rest

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 20:18:00 GMT

Décor "Above" The Rest

These balloons don't float, but they sure stand out on beautifully custom designed dresses, known to the industry as "Balloon Couture". After literally searching "high & low" for some unique and affordable décor and entertainment for an event in Las Vegas, we discovered a perfect alternative to the been there done that showgirl act.

These exquisite balloon dresses require a team of assistants along with the artist herself and take anywhere from 4-7 hours to create each dress. The balloon "art" lasts approximately 24 hours and is customized to fit the person wearing the piece by adding last minute balloons for that perfect fit.

We hired the balloon couture artist to showcase her talent by recreating one of her dresses on a mannequin as guests watched in awe. Two professional models greeted the guests and mingled throughout the evening while posing for photo ops with enamored attendees. The evening ended with a cash giveaway game and the models clad in their classy black and purple balloon dresses cheered on the winners and assisted with the game.

These amazing balloon dresses really helped take the event "up" a notch by adding unique and unusual flair to the party.

- Erin, Account Executive

Who Knew?!

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 20:52:00 GMT

Who Knew?!

Table silencers have been around forever. That thin pad laid down between the table linen and the table itself to create a smoother surface and prevent knocking noises created from the guests placing their glasses down on a hard wood or plastic table. So when we went to source plate silencers I thought it would be an easy phone call and another planning task checked off the list. To my complete surprise that wasn’t exactly the case.

The need for a plate silencer was more than apparent during a menu tasting presentation with one of our clients. The fantastic specialty china plate we selected was going to remain atop our gorgeous pearlized glass charger for the duration of dinner. As we all started to eat the food, clanging noises began to fill the room. “Well we love this table top design” says the client, “but that clanging noise won’t do.”

Of course I said we would be getting plate silencers that would sit between the two elements eliminating the noise. Great. Problem solved. Until we started making phone calls.

No such item exists. Calls to great partners and suppliers, one after the other, revealed that the item existed in the past, but doesn’t any longer. So we decided to create our own. After sourcing a myriad of different materials through craft, office supply and home goods stores as well as large manufacturing companies, we finally settled upon a perfect material. Multiple rounds of tests of varying sizes and designs produced the perfect specimen. Finding an engineering company that specializes in die cutting was the final piece of the puzzle. Our creation worked perfectly. Success. Somebody call the patent office!

- Michele, Account Executive

DIY Holiday Décor Inspired by “Holidays By Design” event

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:39:00 GMT

DIY Holiday Décor Inspired by “Holidays By Design” event

Who says you aren't creative and crafty? You don’t need to spend your holiday cash to decorate your office, home or event. When it comes to decorating for the holidays, it's easy to create unique, inexpensive décor using supplies around your house, office or local craft store.

After attending the swanky DIFFA (Design Industries Foundation Fighting Aids) Holidays By Design event in Kansas City last weekend, we were inspired on how to make fun, festive holiday wreaths. Using buttons, silverware, candy, fur, mirrors, pinecones, ribbon and more, you can make your very own holiday wreath that fits your personal style.

The options are unlimited! Grab your materials and your glue gun and get crafty this holiday season!

- Erin, Account Executive

- Caroline, Senior Account Manager

Seeing the Light

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 16:34:00 GMT

Seeing the Light

What is a daylight screen? Why does it cost so much more? And is it really necessary?

All valid questions… A daylight screen is utilized when an event will be taking place during the daylight hours, I bet you put that one together already. Countless outdoor venues have been overlooked because the event producers thought that video screens would not be viewable during daylight hours. A daylight screen solves that dilemma.

A daylight screen is in essence a “Jumbotron” for the events industry—every stadium has one that is viewable in all lighting situations. And, now, any outdoor event venue can have one too with the same technology—yet portable and scaleable.

The Christian Foundation for Children and Aging used this to their benefit during their Shine a Light Benefit Concert by promoting sponsorships and conveying their organization’s mission. They shined like the sun during the first Shine A Light Benefit Concert, and with over 1,000 tickets sold, many were able to take in the message thanks to the daylight screen. Nothing can compete with the sun, but the daylight screen certainly won’t be outshined.

Who would have thought that having a daylight screen at an event would be so critical? Just one more thing we have learned with another event under our belts.

- Kristin, Account Coordinator

What do you do in Bermuda when it's not a "Bermudiful" day?

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:50:00 GMT

What do you do in Bermuda when it's not a "Bermudiful" day?

Bermuda is a British overseas territory in the North Atlantic Ocean located off the east coast of the United States with its nearest US city being Cape Hatteras, North Carolina.

When you think of island life, you imagine pristine beaches, clear blue water, warm weather and clear, sunny skies. Bermuda was all of the above minus the clear, sunny skies during portions the Toyota Chicago Region President's Award program in June.

Despite the weather the fisherman braved the open water; Scuba divers went down under and viewed rare shipwrecks; Golfers teed off among indescribable backgrounds and spa goers experience the true meaning of rest and relaxation.

Guests enjoyed accommodations, fine cuisine and local entertainment at Elbow Beach, a Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Hotel staff wearing Bermuda shorts with dark knee-high socks, suit jackets and ties greeted all guests with their Bermudian hospitality. It is quite the sight to see! Ask anyone of the staff members, and they will say, “Don’t leave without visiting the Swizzle Inn to enjoy one or two – Dark N’ Stormy drinks.” You will surely Swizzle in and Swagger Out!

- Erin, Account Executive
- Caroline, Senior Account Manager

Toyota Rewards their Dealers: Family-Style

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 19:31:00 GMT

Toyota Rewards their Dealers: Family-Style

Nothing says reward like being able to share it with those that mean the most to you. That is the prize the winners of the 2010 President’s Award received from the Toyota Denver Region. Each winner had the opportunity to bring their immediate family members to the beautifully renovated St. Regis Princeville Resort on the island of Kauai. Kid’s of all ages were able to zip through the rainforest, ride the waves of the Napoli Coast and soar in a helicopter over the Waimea Canyon, capturing breathtaking views and creating lifelong memories.

Not only were the guests experiencing exhilarating activities, they were experiencing gourmet meals beachside, dining under the stars at the exclusive Na Aina Kai Gardens and eagerly returning to their Jr. Suites to see what amazing item had been left for them while they were out. The gifts were definitely something special for this group. They had the opportunity to select from designer sunglasses, received one of the new signature Tiffany handbags, designer flip-flops were dropped for the entire family and to wrap up the week they are now sporting watches for the men and David Yurman jewelry for the ladies.
- Leslie, Account Executive - Operations

High Rollers Hit AC!

Tue, 31 May 2011 19:10:00 GMT

High Rollers Hit AC!

These Mazda dealers played it smart and earned their way to the 2011 Mazda Atlantic City High Rollers Cash Bash event at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City. For one fabulous night, they were treated like a high roller – Mazda style. The quick getaway was supercharged with high octane energy and the chance to win thousands of dollars in cold hard cash. Nearly $200,000 in cash was taken away from the event filled with casino gambling, the magical illusions of the famous Nick Ivory and then they each took their turn with Win, $teal or $wing. The evening left the attendees ready for a rematch next year!

Pebble Beach Golf Incentive

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 21:28:00 GMT

Pebble Beach Golf Incentive

Who Needs Perfect Weather for a Perfect Incentive in Pebble Beach?

Going into our Infiniti program we were hoping for flawless weather to go along with the amazing program that is about to take place…just as we do with every program. Unfortunately, weather doesn’t always cooperate. Fortunately, at Pebble Beach our program prevailed and the attendees had an amazing time.

The restaurants and function space offer amazing back up locations for their outdoor spaces that don’t make the attendees feel like they are being shortchanged by being indoors. The three spaces we used: Club XIX and The Library (both at The Lodge at Pebble Beach) and Peppoli (at the Inn at Spanish Bay) have amazing views of not only the bay, but the incredible courses they experience on the trip. And what group doesn’t appreciate a private bagpiper performance during their reception?

Even with cool wind and misty days, there is no experience like golfing on legendary courses such as Pebble Beach Links and Spyglass Hill. The pure beauty of the courses, along with knowing that they are playing where many of the greats have played, is enough to keep the excitement in the air. Waterproof Pebble Beach jackets, helps with the comfort and staying dry.

Despite our April weather in May, Pebble Beach was a great destination to the flawless incentive.

- Rachelle, Business Development Manager

Rooftop View in the Heart of D.C.

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 14:54:00 GMT

Rooftop View in the Heart of D.C.

Wow. Palpable energy in D.C. witnessed with an exceptional birds-eye view. Great day to be in D.C., May 4th. Just days after the news of Osama Bin Laden was announced there was a heightened energy of positivity and gathering of spirits in Lafayette Square. A timely visit by Prince Charles just days after the Royal Wedding. Security on point on the White House rooftop. A stone’s throw from the White House I was setting up an invitation-only client dinner party on the rooftop terrace of the W Washington Hotel. What a perfect vantage point to witness the excitement!

- Michele, Account Executive

Royal Wedding Mania!

Fri, 27 May 2011 19:47:00 GMT

I had the opportunity to experience London in April during the all of the excitement as the city prepared for the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton! You could purchase anything from bookmarks, china, coffee mugs, pillows, throws, and ornaments adorned with the smiling faces of the two lovebirds!

With the wedding only two weeks away, the city was abuzz with talk of the Royal Wedding and you could feel the excitement in the air. Security had been increased at Westminster Abbey and crowds were more than usual at Buckingham Palace during the Changing of the Guard. It was a great time to be in London and the group with whom I was traveling with, was more than excited to be there!

While in London, we took a private ride on the London Eye and enjoyed the amazing views of the city. In addition to visiting Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, we also made a stop at Windsor Castle and learned that the Queen was there that day since her Royal Standard flag was flying.

My favorite highlight of the trip was a trip to Victoria Palace Theatre to see Billy Elliot. We got to see the opening night of the newest Billy Elliot and learned that since the role requires a 12 year old boy, actors are replaced every year and a half. He did a wonderful job!

We ended our whirlwind week in London with a private viewing of the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London followed by dinner at Trinity House where we were greeted with trumpeters and enjoyed stunning views of the Tower of London during dinner.

In addition to the Royal Wedding excitement, the London Marathon took place Sunday, April 17th, and in 2012, the Olympics will be in London! I spotted the new logo and mascots for the Olympics, Wenlock and Mandeville. These crazy one-eyed characters are a cross between Gumby and Muno from Yo Gabba Gabba. Needless to say, London has a lot of exciting things happening right now! It's a great time to visit!

- Erin, Account Executive

Wedding Bells ring during Nissan sales incentive to Jamaica

Fri, 13 May 2011 21:39:00 GMT

Wedding Bells Ring During Nissan Sales Incentive to Jamaica

During last week’s Nissan sales incentive, our on-site staff was surprised with another last minute event added to the program itinerary. One of the trip winners decided the Secrets St. James resort was not only the perfect incentive destination, but also the perfect spot to exchange wedding vows.  On the day of arrival, the Nissan winner and his fiancé exchanged wedding vows in the wedding gazebo perched on the edge of the beach and overlooking the crystal blue Caribbean waters. This was just one highlight of a thrilling week. Our guests also enjoyed playing golf at Cinnamon Hill and seeing Johnny Cash’s former Caribbean escape estate, experiencing the exhilarating zip lines in the Jamaica countryside as well as receiving true pampering moments in the spa.  The beachside dinners included surprises as well such as a limbo contest, a fire-eater, lively entertainment from a local steel drum band and a cigar roller who shared with the guests how to make their own cigar for a souvenir.  The incentive trip was filled with beautiful weather, fun, relaxation and celebration.

Surprise CEO Visits Energize and Innovate Meetings...Ford Fleet Hops on Board

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 13:35:00 GMT

Alan Mulally's Visit...

It was a doubleheader in Dearborn last week. The Fleet Division of Ford Motor Company hosted back to back meetings, and we had the pleasure of coordinating both. For the most part the meetings were just like any other meeting but with a few exciting elements.

Police Advisory Board Meeting Highlights:

Alan Mulally, President and CEO of Ford made a surprise appearance to show his support and appreciation for the board's hard work and valuable input they provide for Ford’s evolutionary police car development.
Attendees test drove the new police interceptors and their feedback will shape the future police car that will be patrolling your neighborhood soon.

Government Dealer Advisory Panel Meeting Highlights:

The Top 25 Fleet representatives in the nation came together to provide priceless insight to the programs offered by corporate from the dealer perspective. The attendees received a sneak peak at what is to come with Ford in the coming months

Two Cents on Events

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 18:08:00 GMT

Events these days are all about people
************
By Joan Wells, co-founder and CEO

Our new website comes complete with this blog. It’s designed to give you some value-added stuff about the events industry. And our Two Cents won’t cost you a dime.

On every single survey our clients tell us that personal attention is what they appreciate and enjoy the most. That’s what you can expect to find in this blog: Passion and a connection to the world of events through the eyes of people on the front lines.

So let’s talk about what people want from an event. In the 80s it was about glam and in the 90s, it was all about special effects. People used to be just spectators at the event, but when the 00s arrived, events became all about people. Their reactions and individual experiences became the focus.

So how did we arrive at this people-centric focus? Looking back, people have been through a lot this decade as the event industry took a beating from 9/11, a corporate spending backlash, and a gloomy recession. Now, what people want is to feel appreciated – not necessarily pampered – but really valued in a way that a fabulous, well-planned event can convey. It seems pretty simple, but making people feel special is what it’s all about. In a future blog, we’ll tell you just what these events look like… from comfy sofas to comfy food, there’s so much to tell.

So, why the new web site when people and relationships are what drive our business? If we were in your family room, our old web site would be the dusty vase on the mantle that looks nice but hasn’t been touched in a while. Think of our new web site as the jumbo universal remote that sits on your coffee table. With this new site, we can support our clients 24/7 on your terms, not ours... you can shop online with our sister company – Wellington Promotions, gain firsthand insight on trendy new Hot Spots destinations, and find some ideas that will spark creative dialogue within your company

When we started this process of web site redesign we went to lots of other web sites in our industry. Some look like marketing textbooks with words that no one can really describe and some are just lists of services like a menu ready to order.

So, we hope we made the right choice to connect, to educate, maybe entertain and to journey with you in the fast paced world of events. Whether we work with you to incentivize, educate, sell, celebrate, fund raise, or something else...we will keep the connections strong—with our clients, with our vendor partners, and with the specific global community that is important to our clients.

In the future we hope to pass on useful, non-biased, weekly updates on event experiences, happenings around the world, creative ideas, and anything else that will be insightful commentary! It will be all about “How To”, “Problem Solved”, “Think About This” and “Top 10 That”. If only Dr. Seuss had written a “How to Blog” before his passing!

If you know us, you know we are not pontificators who like to listen to ourselves talk. We want to hear from you because YOU are why we’re here! So hop on board with your insight on the world of events.

Two Cents on Events

Calling All Chefs

Calling All Chefs

Is that a cello on my plate?

Is that a cello on my plate?

Décor "Above" The Rest

Décor "Above" The Rest

Who Knew?!

Who Knew?!

DIY Holiday Décor Inspired by “Holidays By Design” event

DIY Holiday Décor Inspired by “Holidays By Design” event

Seeing the Light

Seeing the Light

What do you do in Bermuda when it's not a "Bermudiful" day?

What do you do in Bermuda when it's not a "Bermudiful" day?

Toyota Rewards their Dealers: Family-Style

Toyota Rewards their Dealers: Family-Style

High Rollers Hit AC!

High Rollers Hit AC!

Pebble Beach Golf Incentive

Pebble Beach Golf Incentive

Rooftop View in the Heart of D.C.

Rooftop View in the Heart of D.C.

Royal Wedding Mania!

Wedding Bells ring during Nissan sales incentive to Jamaica

Wedding Bells Ring During Nissan Sales Incentive to Jamaica

Surprise CEO Visits Energize and Innovate Meetings...Ford Fleet Hops on Board

Alan Mulally's Visit...

Police Advisory Board Meeting Highlights:

Government Dealer Advisory Panel Meeting Highlights:

Two Cents on Events

Events these days are all about people ************ By Joan Wells, co-founder and CEO

Events these days are all about people
************
By Joan Wells, co-founder and CEO