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![Index
Bangkok
www.indexcreative-
village.com
Kreingkrai
Kanjanapokin,
Kreirngkarn
Kanjanapokin
71 $59 million The agency’s capabilities include event production
and design, online and interactive media, and
exhibition design and production.
InVision
Communications
San Francisco
www.iv.com
Rod Mickels 140 to 160 $57.5 million This year’s event roster has included the Genentech
NSM 2015, Cisco Velocity, EMC World 2015, Gartner
Symposium, Oracle OpenWorld, Cisco Partner
Summit 2015, Amway Achievers, Cisco Internet of
Things World Forum, Microsoft Global Exchange,
and Kiehl’s Sales Manager Conference.
The “Internet of things”—where everyday objects have Internet
connectivity—is becoming more prevalent at events. “We have
a newer generation of people who expect everything to ‘do
something’” they say. “You’ll see more interactive displays,
virtual reality, attendee-tracking/wearable technology, data
visualization, gamification, etc., at events.”
InVNT
New York
www.invnt.com
Scott Cullather 575 $50 million Busy this year with projects such as Equinox The
Pursuit, which not only cohered with the Equinox’s
branding but stood out amidst a busy SXSW festival
environment, and the GMNA Cadillac ATS-V regional
media drive.
InVNT will now produce programs for Time Inc.; “Leveraging
live media to complement traditional and digital advertising is a
growing trend in the marketplace, and one we can expect from
Time Inc. as it looks to [its] newly acquired InVNT to provide
expertise in live events.”
Jack Morton
Worldwide
Boston
www.jackmorton.com
Josh McCall 1,000 plus $100 million
(Special Events
estimate)
This global brand experience agency is known for
event marketing, promotional marketing, digital,
social and mobile communications, sponsorship
marketing and employee engagement.
Good trends: “We create experiences that strengthen the
relationships between brands and the people who matter most to
them. Creating a seamless experience between live and digital is
our continued goal.” Bad trends: “Not really—we’re optimists!”
JHE Production Group
Harrisburg, N.C.
www.gojhe.com
Jay Howard 300 $20 million This year’s event roster has included the Wake
Forest University “Wake Will” Campaign, NASCAR
Acceleration Nation, Pinehurst Concours d’Elegance,
and “BuzzFest”—the NBA Charlotte Hornets
welcome-home party.
“Partners are most interested in event experiences so people
connect with the event and the brand,” management says.
“Social media assists partners with this message. Consumers
are more likely to share on social media versus giving out email
addresses and phone numbers.”
JNR Corp.
Irvine, Calif.
www.jnrcorp.com
Jim Jalet,
LuAnn Jalet
45 plus $30 million A busy year with exciting headline entertainers and
one-of-a-kind activities for events across the U.S.
and around the world.
Management sees “a continuous demand for experiential el-
ements to amplify events,” which involves “fusing digital, social
and personal touches to connect with attendees.”
Live Marketing
Chicago
www.livemarketing.
com
Anne Trompeter 25 to 50 $10 million Specialties include trade show marketing, meetings
and events, interactive media, content develop-
ment, and staffing.
“From a 118-iPad wall that transformed four disparate groupings
into a single storytelling infographic, to interactive tablet tours
combining audience response and interactivity, we’re building
completely new ways to engage and tell stories,” they say.
Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/se and check the box for 753
5OTOP Event CompaniesS](https://image.slidesharecdn.com/pages-150922200516-lva1-app6892/85/Special-Events-Rating-TOP50-16-320.jpg)
![SP EC IA LEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
16
Luminous Experiential
MSL Group
Hong Kong, Singapore
www.luminous-asia.
com
Dave Low 50 $17.5 million This year’s event roster has included the Fidelity
Global Market Outlook luncheon, Hai Tong press
conference launch, CLSA Forums, City of Dreams
grand opening in Manila, Fortinet Fast and Secure
Conference, ANZ World Business Forum 2015, and
Audi Driving Experience 2015.
Technology is revolutionizing the event marketplace, with a focus
on delivering digital solutions alongside experiential ones for
a longer lasting campaign and amplification for the brand and
event key message, management says. “Gone are the days of
a simple themed gala or cocktail; now there is a reason behind
every touch point of the guest’s/client’s journey.”
MGM Resorts Event
Productions
Las Vegas
www.mgmresorts
events.com
Jim Murren 1,300 $16 million Highlights have included the Rock in Rio USA
partnership with MGM Resorts, held on a 33-acre
open-air venue on the Vegas Strip; and the Conven-
tion Industry Council Hall of Leaders event held in
conjunction with IMEX America at Mandalay Bay.
The good: Social marketing, technological advances, sophisticated
buyers and an increase in interactive event elements. And the
bad: Shorter and shorter lead times, along with tighter budgets.
Opus Events Agency
Beaverton, Ore.
www.opusagency.com
Grant
Hammersley
600 $41 million Busy this year with projects for Amazon, EMC,
Daimler and Alaska Airlines; the Alaska Airlines
event included a social media-based “photobomb”
campaign culminating in an “ultimate Portland
Timbers fan experience.”
“Brands are seeking ‘larger than life’ designs,” management says,
“transporting attendees via outsized wall-covering graphics, two-
story booths, neon lights, video mapping, and more.”
Pacific Event
Productions
San Diego
www.pacificevents.
com
George Duff,
Joanne Mera
840 $10 million The element of surprise is trending for clients, management says:
“We have been crafting reveals on a large scale with headliner
entertainment, down to smaller effects with lighting and rotating
set changes. Clients have been awed by the reaction of guests.”
Party Planners
West
Los Angeles
www.ppwinc.com
Patricia K. Ryan 25 plus $22.8 million Serving corporate events since 1981; famed for its
work with the NFL Experience.
Paulette Wolf Events
and Entertainment
Chicago
www.paulette
wolfevents.com
Jodi Wolf 75 to 100 $10 million PWEE has had a full slate of events this year includ-
ing the groundbreaking of the 1060 project for the
Chicago Cubs, product launch events for NetApp,
CDW and Cisco, along with a private anniversary
event featuring Maroon 5.
The big trend: events as communities. “Events are no longer two-
or three-day programs, but create a community that starts before
the event begins and continues well beyond the event to create
a broader footprint,” management says. “Planners must think
about a longer life cycle utilizing technology and social media.”
Pico Global Services
Ltd.
Hong Kong
www.pico.com
Lawrence Chia 330 $300 million “We diversified our service offerings into the
field of integrated marketing, allowing us to win
contracts with high-profile brands including Dow,
Li and Fung, and Yonex in China,” they say. Pico
also worked on Art Basel and Art Central in Hong
Kong; launch and promotional events for global car
brands including Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and
Rolls-Royce; and the Argentina, Brunei, Cambodia
and Malaysia pavilions at Expo Milano 2015.
“With the linear customer journey now a thing of the past, brands
are becoming obliged to create omni-channel experiences for
their customers, allowing them to easily move between online
and offline experiences,” management says. “We’ll be seeing
much more of this in the future—‘buy now’ buttons on mobile
phone searches, short and snappy promotional videos on photo-
sharing apps, and ever-more engaging and creative O2O [online
to offline] campaigns. It’s an exciting time to be in this business!”
Podegiki
Moscow
www.podegiki.ru
Mikhail Voronin 150 $12.3 million The year’s event roster has included big events for
Bayer, Janssen and Svyaznoy.
Two big trends: Multi-format events and the focus on ROI. “Clients
want to know exactly how their expenses will be paid off,”
management says. “They require the calculation of performance
indicators and want them to be more predictable.”
Pulse220
Detroit
www.pulse220.com
Craig Erlich 135 $20 million “We are on an ‘anniversary’ tear,” management
says, with 100th anniversary events for Henry
Ford Health Systems and PriceWaterhouseCoopers
Detroit, 50th anniversary for Gatorade, and 30th
anniversary for QuickenLoans.
What’s hot: Technology integration into every aspect of the
event including before, during and after, with an emphasis on
the social media amplification opportunities that occur after the
event, they say.
Sequoia Productions
Los Angeles
www.sequoiaprod.
com
Cheryl Cecchetto 25 to 40 $12 million to
$20 million
This year’s event roster has included the Academy
Awards Governors Ball, Primetime Emmys Gover-
nors Ball, G’Day USA, Horton Plaza Park opening,
Special Olympics Opening Reception, and events for
the UCSF Medical Center and Goldman Sachs.
Drones are the new big thing in events, they say; “However,
personalized service and attention to detail are still the focus of
our management style. Incorporating a social media component
and bigger/better events for smaller budgets are still in vogue.”
Switch
St. Louis
www.liberateyour
brand.com
Mike O’Neill 8,220 $25.9 million This year the team produced Primerica’s biennial
employee meeting at the Georgia Dome and
NASCAR’s Sprint Cup Series Champion’s Week.
Management notes increased focus on quality of engagement,
measurement of reach online, social media interaction, and pre-
and post-event communication.
Tamar Productions
Chicago
www.tamar
productionsinc.com
Mary Ann Rose 120 to 150 $14 million Busy this year with the Magnificent Mile Association
gala and Chicago Police Foundation True Blue
event.
“Everyone wants to be high tech, but doesn’t want to spend the
dollars,” management says. “On the other hand, we’re seeing a
lot of the old-fashioned decor coming into play.”
TBA Global
New York
www.tbaglobal.com
Paula Balzer 100 $42 million Big projects this year have included the Connect +
Discover Summit for Stratasys and the OnePlus 2
global launch.
“Our clients are super-clear that their audience wants to be
participants; they want to be active listeners,” management says.
“How do we bring a process to the table that shifts the dynamic?
The answer is neuromarketing, using three simple questions to
put objective rather than subjective measurement in place. By
integrating breakthroughs in data, neuro and behavioral sciences,
we has been able to analyze millions of data points of individuals
all around the world, to come up with a cluster approach about
how to speak to an audience. We can now know exactly why
people like what they like and do what they do, and therefore we
know how to influence their behavior.”
5OTOP Event CompaniesS](https://image.slidesharecdn.com/pages-150922200516-lva1-app6892/85/Special-Events-Rating-TOP50-17-320.jpg)
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price used to appeal to us before the frequency of it
increased and we realized that we were getting a repu-
tation of being the ‘fixers’ if something goes wrong.
Inevitably, these same customers that you saved will
come back to you and want you to do their next project
for the same low price again. This is just another reason
to stick to your business and pricing model regardless
of the situation. We are being asked to come in at the
last minute, with a full schedule of our own, rearrange
our delivery crews and schedules, rush a process that
should take weeks in preparation, and put our reputa-
tion on the line. The least the customer could do is to
pay us the amount we ask for. We would never penalize
a customer by charging them more for the same event
because we had the ability to. We demand a certain
return on our equipment, and I would rather turn the
customer down than have them feel we were trying to
take advantage of them.”
Dan Hooks, CERP, president, Party Reflections,
Charlotte, N.C.
POLICY MAKES PERFECT “I started a
pricing policy 10 years ago, and I’m pretty ruthless. I’ve
lost some clients over it but they all wanted to order two
or three days before an event, and that just made me/us
frantic. You earn the best price if you confirm 16 days
or more in advance. Less than that, my prices increase
50 percent, and nine days or less, my prices double. In
fact, yesterday a local rental company called. They had
ordered spandex from somebody, and [that company]
failed to perform. I told
them my prices, they
checked, confirmed.
They didn’t like the
price—they thought
it was high—but they
needed it. But it is
not my fault that they
choose an undepend-
able vendor who prom-
ised more than they
could deliver. After the
deal was completed, I
sent over my price list
and told them what
they could pay in the
future if they ordered
timely.” O
Bernie Gaps, owner,
Absolutely Fabulous!
Events and Productions,
Costa Mesa, Calif.
RESOURCES
ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS!
EVENTS AND
PRODUCTIONS
www.absofab.net
CHAIR DECOR ETC.
www.chairdecor.com
MM THE SPECIAL
EVENTS CO.
www.mmspecialevents.
com
PARTY REFLECTIONS
www.partyreflections.com
RENTALS UNLIMITED
www.rentals-unlimited.net
Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/se and check the box for 759
specialevents.com
C L A S S I F I E D S
sellyourrentalco.com
BUSINESS SALE REPRESENTATION
TOP QUALITY USED TENTS
All tents manufactured by Anchor
Industries. All sizes and shapes
available. All conditions available. Inquire
about our tent- washing capabilities.
Please call Tim Frost, ext. 105 or Tom
Smith, ext. 141, at (203) 324-6222 or
email tfrost@stamfordtent.com
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE
Party and Wedding Rental
Equipment Building
and Inventory For Sale.
Owner Retiring!
Special Events on the Boulevard
Building $275,000
on a city block with plenty of parking.
Inventory $200,000
Location: SPECIAL EVENTS ON
THE BOULEVARD
2101 TEXAS BOULEVARD
TEXARKANA, TEXAS 75501
CONTACT: JANE AGAN
(903) 277-3161
(903) 794-2101
www.specialeventstxk.com
jane.agan@specialeventstxk.com
BUSINESS FOR SALE](https://image.slidesharecdn.com/pages-150922200516-lva1-app6892/85/Special-Events-Rating-TOP50-36-320.jpg)
![SP EC IA LEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
38
For many in the industry, it’s
going to be hard to imagine events
without Kelly Murphy.
With husband Bob DeFriest,
Murphy helped pioneer the busi-
ness in 1992 by founding Panache
Party Rentals out of their home.
Their inspiration: “There were a few
key players in major markets to the
west and north of us that were col-
oring outside the lines with inven-
tory selection,” she explains. “This
intrigued and inspired us to change
the rental landscape here in Florida.”
With a focus on high-end linen
and high-end service, the opera-
tion grew steadily. In 2007, the pair
elected to sell the Pompano Beach,
Fla.-based firm to party rental
powerhouse Classic Party Rentals,
with Murphy staying on in manage-
ment. But this chapter of her life
is coming to a close, as Murphy
recently announced she will be
moving on.
She says her time with Classic
let her continue on the journey “to
learn and experience opportunities
working with amazing rental pro-
fessionals throughout the country.”
But hitting what she calls a personal
“life speed bump” over the summer
prompted her to think about what
she has accomplished in the last 23
years and what more she can do.
“Having more time with my hus-
band and family is paramount,” she
says, adding that the idea of nurtur-
ing her own creativity in other areas
of the industry is irresistible.
So the good news is, we won’t
have to imagine events without
Kelly Murphy. Indeed, she says she
has some client projects in the food
and wine event space on her calen-
dar, along with collaboration with
Classic Panache and other commu-
nity projects that have been “swirl-
ing in my head for a long time.”
Indeed, her commitment to the
local community goes back over
two decades. Murphy has been a
longtime supporter of Share Our
Strength, which helps feed needy
children via its “Taste of the Nation”
events. “I am very proud that all
of our South Florida Taste of the
Nation and Food Network South
Beach Food Wine Festival
[another Panache project] events
coordinate a food-rescue program
to ensure that no safe leftover food
goes to waste after each event.”
The image of the event industry
has improved since her early days,
she says, a boon to newbies launch-
ing their careers. “The industry is
maturing and is taken more seri-
ously as a career than a stop-gap
job-filler,” she says. “The career seg-
ments have expanded, and there is
much more opportunity for niche
services.” What hasn’t changed: The
need for “face-to-face connection of
peers, clients and team members.”
And for those of you eager to
learn where she will head next, she
says: “Stay tuned!” ●
Classic Pompano Beach/
Panache 2009 N.W. 25th
Ave., Pompano Beach, FL
33069; 954/971-8484; classic
partyrentals.com
After Party
THE LAST WORD
PERFECT TEAM “As a
Classic Party Rentals
team member, I am
very proud of my role
working with team
members around the
country for NFL Super
Bowl events. Each
city brings its own
set of challenges—be
it weather, logistics,
installation and tear-
down parameters—
and sheer size of the
events because of the
prestige of the game.”
PERFECT OUTLOOK
“[Panache] leadership
is committed to
strengthening the
core values of
people, product and
service. I see many
opportunities for their
growth and success
ahead.”
PERFECT PARTNER
“I am fortunate
to have the most
amazing husband,
friend and partner
who supported me
regardless of how
overcommitted I am,
and yet will remind
me that ‘life is calling’
from time to time
and to participate in
today.”
Party rental leader Kelly Murphy looks back—
and ahead
By Lisa Hurley
PhotobyMichaelMurphy](https://image.slidesharecdn.com/pages-150922200516-lva1-app6892/85/Special-Events-Rating-TOP50-39-320.jpg)
Uploaded byEventum Premo
Special Events - Rating TOP50
Corporate Magic helps the Salvation Army celebrate its 150th anniversary with the astonishing 'Boundless' event. Five experts share secrets for keeping fundraising galas successful, such as experiential elements, unique themes, and focusing on influencer attendees. A look at new trends in desserts shows DIY stations gaining popularity alongside Asian-inspired treats and artisanal cheeses.
More Related Content
Special Events - Rating TOP50
- 1. Exclusive: 14th Annual50 Top Event Companies Corporate Magic Helps the Salvation Army Celebrate 150 Years COVER STORY HIP IN CATERING: DIY DESSERTS P. 27 RENTAL PROS BEAT THE LOW-BALL BID P. 33 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 ® Powered by Five experts share the event essentials that keep the funds flowing YOUR GALA Growing
- 2. Digital Edition CopyrightNotice The content contained in this digital edition (“Digital Material”), as well as its selection and arrangement, is owned by Penton. and its affiliated companies, licensors, and suppliers, and is protected by their respective copyright, trademark and other proprietary rights. Upon payment of the subscription price, if applicable, you are hereby authorized to view, download, copy, and print Digital Material solely for your own personal, non-commercial use, provided that by doing any of the foregoing, you acknowledge that (i) you do not and will not acquire any ownership rights of any kind in the Digital Material or any portion thereof, (ii) you must preserve all copyright and other proprietary notices included in any downloaded Digital Material, and (iii) you must comply in all respects with the use restrictions set forth below and in the Penton Privacy Policy and the Penton Terms of Use (the “Use Restrictions”), each of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Any use not in accordance with, and any failure to comply fully with, the Use Restrictions is expressly prohibited by law, and may result in severe civil and criminal penalties. Violators will be prosecuted to the maximum possible extent. You may not modify, publish, license, transmit (including by way of email, facsimile or other electronic means), transfer, sell, reproduce (including by copying or posting on any network computer), create derivative works from, display, store, or in any way exploit, broadcast, disseminate or distribute, in any format or media of any kind, any of the Digital Material, in whole or in part, without the express prior written consent of Penton. To request content for commercial use or Penton’s approval of any other restricted activity described above, please contact the Reprints Department at (877) 652-5295. Without in any way limiting the foregoing, you may not use spiders, robots, data mining techniques or other automated techniques to catalog, download or otherwise reproduce, store or distribute any Digital Material. NEITHER PENTON NOR ANY THIRD PARTY CONTENT PROVIDER OR THEIR AGENTS SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY ACT, DIRECT OR INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF OR ACCESS TO ANY DIGITAL MATERIAL, AND/OR ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED THEREIN.
- 3. Empower guests atyour next event, meeting or show with charging furniture from CORT and make searching for wall outlets history. Design EndlessTM powered sectionals, comfortable connected lounges, or communal charging stations with CORT’s complete line of powered soft seating, tables, and lighting. Charging AC and USB outlets are built right into the furniture and feature cord management to create a seamless powered solution that will electrify your next event. Call 1.888.CORT.YES or visit us at cortevents.com to see our complete collection. STAY CONNECTED © 2015 CORT. A Berkshire Hathaway Company. POWER UP THE POSSIBILITIES. 9LVLWZZZIUHHSURGXFWLQIRQHWVHDQGFKHFNWKHER[IRU
- 4. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 3 THIS ISSUE 09-10/15 27 COLUMNS 6 Editor’s Page Lisa Hurley on what the big-time players can teach us all. 38 The Last Word Kelly Murphy on her life in linen. DEPARTMENTS 9 Confetti Corporate Magic helps the Salvation Army celebrate its 150th anniversary with the astonishing ‘Boundless.’ 19-22 Think ISES The latest news from the International Special Events Society. 27 Food for Fêtes DIY dessert stations, Asian- inspired treats and artisanal cheeses chart a new course for dessert. On the cover: The stunning ‘Shanghai Silk’ Daffodil Ball; read more on page 24. Photo by Stéphane Poirier. Photo at top by Nadine Froger Photography. Photo at left by Image Maker Photographic Studio. COVER STORY 11 14th Annual 50 Top Event Companies It’s our annual look at the biggest players in event planning. For who’s working on what and a forecast of top trends, turn here. 23 Growing Your Gala The brains behind five fabulous fundraisers share their secrets of event essentials to keep the funds flowing.
- 5. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 4 Special Events®, Volume 34 No. 5 (ISSN 1079-1264, USPS 000-186), is published six times a year (January-February, March-April, May-June, July-August, September- October and November-December) by Penton Inc., 9800 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS 66212-2216 (penton.com). Periodicals postage paid at Shawnee Mission, Kan., and additional mailing offices. Canadian Post Publications Mail Agreement No. 40597023. Canada return address: IMEX Global Solutions, P.O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2. Additional resources, including subscription request forms and an editorial calendar, are available at specialevents.com. EDITORIAL OFFICE: 11500 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 574, Los Angeles, CA 90064, USA. SUBSCRIPTION RATES: Free and controlled circulation to qualified subscribers. One-year print subscriptions are available to qualified subscribers in the USA for $19.95; digital subscriptions are $9.95 a year worldwide. Nonqualified persons may subscribe at the following rates: US, 1 year, $36; 2 years, $60. Canada: 1 year, $48; 2 years, $84. Outside US and Canada: 1 year, $84; 2 years, $140. Prices subject to change. To order single copies or for subscriber services, write to Special Events Magazine, 2104 Harvell Circle, Bellevue, NE 68005, USA, or call 866/505-7173 (USA) or 847/763-9504 (outside USA), or visit specialevents.com. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Special Events Magazine, P.O. Box 2100, Skokie, IL 60076-7800, USA. REPRINTS: Contact Penton Reprints to purchase quality custom reprints or e-prints of articles appearing in this publication at 888/858-8851; reprints@ pentonreprints; www.pentonreprints.com. Instant reprints and permissions may be purchased directly from our Web site; look for the iCopyright tag appended to the end of each article. PHOTOCOPIES: Authorization to photocopy articles for inter- nal corporate, personal or instructional use may be obtained from the Copyright Clearance Center (CCC) at 987/750-8400. Obtain further information at copyright. com. ARCHIVE AND MICROFORM: This magazine is available for research and retrieval of selected archived articles from leading electronic databases and online search services, including Factiva, LexisNexis and Proquest. For microform avail- ability, contact National Archive Publishing Co. at 800/521-0600 or 734/761-4700, or search the Serials in Microform listings at napubco.com. PRIVACY POLICY: Your privacy is a priority to us. For a detailed policy statement about privacy and information dissemination practices related to Penton Inc. products, please visit our Web site at penton.com. CORPORATE OFFICE: Penton Inc., 1166 Avenue of the Americas, 10th Floor, New York, NY 10036; 212/204-4200. COPYRIGHT 2015 Penton Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS ISSUE09-10/15 31 DEPARTMENTS 31 Divine Decor Today’s lighting designers create wondrous new worlds. Here, design work by Got Light; photo by Show Ready Photo. 33 Rental Essentials Is trying to salvage a low-ball bid good business—or business suicide? 35 Classifieds 37 Advertisers Index 37 Marketplace CONTRIBUTORS Contributing editor Susan Cuadrado looks at how the DIY trend is taking over dessert, along with the brightest ideas in event lighting. Our art director, Cheryl Prats, splits her time between Special Events and a range of design projects, both print and online.
- 6. Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/se andcheck the box for 746 (800) 642-TAPE (8273) EXT.73 TEL. (818) 781-8273 (TAPE) 7101 Valjean Ave., Van Nuys , CA 91406 Celebrating 31Years Fax. (818) 781-8388 11500 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 574 Los Angeles, CA 90064 phone 424/465-6600 • fax 913/514-3753 Winner of awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors and the Western Publications Association Also publishers of MeetingsNet Live Design • Rental Equipment Register Content Director Lisa Hurley, lisa.hurley@penton.com Art Director Cheryl Prats, cprats@mac.com Contributing Editor Susan Cuadrado President, Food/Agriculture Division Dan Bagan, dan.bagan@penton.com Managing Director Melissa Fromento, melissa.fromento@penton.com Sales Executive Wanda McKnight, wanda.mcknight@penton.com Sales Manager Eliza Tano, eliza.tano@penton.com Joanna Siddiqui, joanna.siddiqui@penton.com Group Show Director Monique M. Levy, monique.levy@penton.com Show Director Tara Melingonis, tara.melingonis@penton.com Events Manager Kim Romano, kim.romano@penton.com Senior Director, Production Carlos Lugo, carlos.lugo@penton.com Production Manager Kim Blaski, kim.blaski@penton.com Classified Production Supervisor Michael Penelton, michael.penelton@penton.com Classified Production Coordinator Robert Rys, robert.rys@penton.com Senior Director, User Marketing Desiree Torres, desiree.torres@penton.com Audience Marketing 866/505-7173 (USA) or 847/763-9504 (outside USA) Customer Service List Rental Rosalie Garcia, rosalie.garcia@penton.com; 212/204-4358 Reprints/Content Licensing Wright’s Media, 877/652-5295, penton@wrightsmedia.com SPECIAL EVENTS MAGAZINE, Powered by Penton, is devoted to rental operators, planners, caterers, dealers, manufacturers and others involved in the planning, staging or supplying of special events. Written permission must be obtained for the reproduction of any material, in whole or in part, appearing in this issue. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Special Events magazine, P.O. Box 2100, Skokie, IL 60076-7800, USA. © 2015 (by) Penton Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. Chief Executive Officer David Kieselstein, david.kieselstein@penton.com Chief Financial Officer/ Nicola Allais, nicola.allais@penton.com Executive Vice President s p e c i a l e v e n t s . c o m P o w e r e d b y P e n t o n Manager, Social Media Engagement Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/se and check the box for 747 800-876-9922 www.fastenation.com FASTENation, Inc. is your one-stop shop for all your VELCRO® brand fasteners and hospitality needs. Stressed…About Your Upcoming Events?
- 7. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 6 Mark Baltazar / Broadstreet New York Janice Blackmon / Janice Blackmon Events Atlanta Valerie Braun / Arena Americas Chicago Cindy Brewer, CMP, DMCP / LEO Events Memphis, Tenn. David Buckley, CSEP / AFR Event Furnishings Pennsauken, N.J. Patrick Cuccaro / Affairs to Remember Atlanta Kevin Dana / CORT Trade Show and Event Furnishings South San Francisco, Calif. Tracie Domino / Tracie Domino Events Tampa, Fla. Craig Erlich / Pulse 220 Detroit Andrew Gerstel / Windows Catering Co. Alexandria, Va. Karl Heitz, CSEP, DMCP / The AXS Group Denver Lisa Hopkins Barry, CPCE, CMP / The Houstonian Houston L. Gene Huddleson / Detail + Design Indianapolis Steve Jaffe, CSEP / MMD Equipment Orlando, Fla. Cara Kleinhaut / Caravents Beverly Hills, Calif. Steve Kohn / CAD My Event Edison, N.J. Caroline Lett / University of Southern California Los Angeles La Randa Mayes / Supreme Court of the United States Washington Gwen McNutt / Comcast Cable Chicago Amil Mendez / Showtime Events Crofton, Md. Jon Michaels / Extraordinary Events Sherman Oaks, Calif. Kathy Newby, CERP / Stuart Rental Co. Milpitas, Calif. Rena Puebla / Coast Concierge Service Costa Mesa, Calif. Brian Richardson / L and A Tents Hamilton, N.J. Charlene Roth-Diddams / POP Kollaborative Calgary, Alberta Jim Sala / Classic Tents Torrance, Calif. Robin Selden / Marcia Selden Catering and Event Planning Stamford, Conn. Alison Silcoff / Alison Silcoff Events Montreal Anne Finzer Wadlow / CEO Corporate Event Organization Edmonton, Alberta Debbie Wood / The University of Texas at Tyler Tyler, Texas EDITOR’S PAGE EVENTS AT THE EPICENTER PhotobyNadineFrogerPhotography O U R A D V I S O R Y B O A R D As many of you will remember, face-to-face events took a beating during the Great Recession. Travel was too expensive, staffing was too expensive— and besides, all communication was going virtual, wasn’t it? What a difference the years make. Today, face-to-face events are at the epicenter of major marketing campaigns, as the big event producers we profile in our annual “50 Top Event Companies” prove. Events are no longer the “nice to have” add-ons to campaigns. Instead, they are often the essentials of a marketing program. “Experiential marketing is now in a place where events are no longer on the fringes of the marketing mix,” says Jeff Kalpak, head of New York-based Barkley Kalpak Agency. “They are the center of it.” One big reason, of course, is the rise of social media. As many of us dis- covered after viewing thousands of forgettable posts and tweets, social media too often is just the channel, or as some commentators call it, the “dumb pipe.” Without compelling content, social media is a frenzy of mindless mes- sages, a lot of noise about nothing. Enter events. Events, as they always have, provide irreplaceable interaction. As Mark Baltazar, head of New York-based Broadstreet, puts it, “Attendees are gravitat- ing toward events that provide community, human interaction and non- digital shared experiences.” Indeed, sophisticated event pros take the power of these social-media mavens quite seriously. “We’ve had to legitimately shift our focus to the attendees at the center of those experiences as influencers,” Kalpak says. He describes them as “a savvy bunch with short attention spans and finely tuned BS meters, armed with an opinion, a mobile device and followers.” Turn to page 11 for the full story. We’re also proud to bring you the smart thinking of five event planners who create fundraising galas that keep on giving. We hope that our cover story, which begins on page 23, will inspire you to try something new—or stick with something traditional if that’s best—for your event. And our sweet finale: a look at the DIY trend for desserts. Bring along a blow torch to create the cutest mini baked Alaska ever.
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- 10. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 9 Corporate Magic oversees the mammoth 150th anniversary celebration of the Salvation Army where it all began—in London Unlimited Spectacle at ‘Boundless’ SalutingtheArmy:Corporate Magic oversaw a massive program of music, performers and audiovisual displays for the 150th anniversary of the Salvation Army. Photos here and lower center and right by Graham Carlow; photo at lower left by JimTempleton-Cross. The world came to London for five days in June, as the Salvation Army celebrated its 150th anniver- sary by bringing together repre- sentatives from all the countries in which the charitable organization operates. The Army, which was founded and is headquartered in London, hired Dallas-based Corporate Magic to oversee the events. Corporate Magic has a long his- tory with the charity: “It all sprang from our association with the Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle campaign kickoff broadcast dur- ing Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Day games over the past 13 years,” explains Stephen Dahlem, senior creative director for Corporate Magic. The 150th event required a two- year planning process. “Corporate Magic orchestrated the entire event, across five venues, from conceptualization to forming the teams that handled everything from staging to lighting to AV and video,” Dahlem says. The event ros- ter included seven general sessions in London’s O2 arena, a grand march down the mall leading to Buckingham Palace, an interactive history of the Army, and perfor- mances by 40 international groups, ranging from the hula to Chinese lion dancing. The event team numbered more than 250—nine from the U.S., including Christopher Laue, who produced the opening ceremonies for the 2012 Olympics in London, and the rest local. All told, nearly 16,000 attendees from all 126 Army countries marveled at the spectacle. Corporate Magic keyed on the event theme “Boundless”—a lyric from a hymn written by the founder of the Army. “We knew that we could apply that message of ‘unlimited’ to all aspects of the Army’s future,” Dahlem says. He credits Corporate Magic’s grasp of the Army’s mission as one reason why his team won the bid, saying Corporate Magic “completely understood the importance of why they gathered for this anniversary.” Corporate Magic 1925 Cedar Springs, Dallas, TX 75201; 800/275-7026; www.corporate magicinc.com
- 11. A sly mixof vintage and vamp, Sophie Parrott heads up the Marvelous Vintage Tea Party Co. Her Austin, Texas-based firm specializes in delivering over-the-top tea parties for occasions ranging from bachelorette parties, including one for songbird Kelly Clarkson, to corporate events. The Marvelous Tea team provides catering services, decor, rentals, floral, staffing and entertainment, with an emphasis on creating highly detailed, personalized events. Packages range from the basic “Simply Lovely,” offering china, tabletop decor, cake and staff, up to the “Absolutely Bloomin’ Marvelous,” where guests are treated to vintage china, sterling silver flatware, cakes and treats, lavish floral, and a trunk brimming with hats to try on. Additional services include vintage hairstyling and makeup sessions, burlesque dancers and a silhouette artist. Visit www.marveloustea.com PARTY FAVOR BEE’S-KNEES TEAS Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/se and check the box for 750 Pickyourparty:The Marvelous Vintage Team team creates custom tea parties—even underwater. Photos by Waterloo Studio Photography, Bonnie Lauren Photography, Flashpool Productions and Melanie Grizzel Photography (clockwise from top left).
- 12. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 11 COMPANY CHIEF EXECUTIVE AVERAGE NUMBER OF SPECIAL EVENTS PER YEAR ANNUAL REVENUE FROM SPECIAL EVENTS (2015 FORECAST) NOTEWORTHY EVENTS TOP TRENDS AgencyEA Chicago www.agencyea.com Fergus Rooney 108 $27 million Along with expanding its own office space to a total of 21,000 square feet, AgencyEA continues to nurture its partnership with Hilton Worldwide, working on the Regional Owner Connections, America’s Full Service Summit, America’s Lodging Investment Summit, and Hilton @PLAY. “Context is king,” management says. “Technology—beacons, geo-fencing, RFID, etc.—has allowed us to understand how users consume content at an event.” Allied Experiential New York www.allied experiential.com Matthew Glass 500 $10 million Allied has ventured beyond U.S. borders to produce a global campaign with events in 17 different countries. The company is also increasing work with special markets, including Latino, African-American and LGBT communities, management reports. Keep your eyes open for increased use of wearable technologies, virtual reality and social media, they say. AMCI Marina del Rey, Calif. www.amciglobal.com David Stokols 500 $125 million to $150 million Management points with pride to its new website, new service offerings and expansion to serve 52 countries—all this year. “Experiential is now accepted as a key and crucial practice to achieve brand and sales success,” management says. “Procure- ment has an equal seat at the table with marcom end-users.” Ashfield Meetings and Events Ivyland, Pa. www.ashfield healthcare.com/ meetingsandevents Gavin Houston 1,075 $142 million Highlights of the past year have included a re- brand from Universal WorldEvents to better align the division with its parent, United Drug; expansion of the company’s footprint to San Bruno, Calif.; and launch of sister brand Spark Thinking to broaden event delivery capabilities. “In general there is a big trend in the speed that technology is adopted, and we expect ‘positioning’ technology to play a more important role in enhancing sensory experiences and creating more personalized learning journeys,” management says. Automotive Events Rocky River, Ohio www.automotive- events.com John R. Thorne 133 $20 million The company specializes in the development and management of “authentic” public relations events, experiential marketing programs, and motorsports events. Management is looking toward a big launch for automotive and telecommunications products in Thailand. Awestruck Marketing Group Los Angeles, New York www.getawestruck. com Lawrence Butler, Robin Potash 80 to 100 $9.5 million For National Geographic Channel TV show “Life Below Zero,” Awestruck created a SXSW experience dubbed “Escape the Cold” that immersed consum- ers in the harsh lifestyle of the show’s stars. The footprint included 22-by-12-foot Arctic tents that dropped temperatures inside by 20 to 30 degrees. The continuing explosion of social media and new tech tools—3-D printing, eye-tracking technologies, drones, etc.—calls for more integrated platforms and bigger event impact, they say: “The rise of this event technology helps event professionals get the most out of our events while improving the overall experience for our attendees-turned-participants.” Balich Worldwide Shows Milan, Italy www.balichws.com Gianmaria Serra 7 $34 million This year’s event roster has included artistic direc- tion of the Italian Pavilion at Expo 2015, and concept and supervision of the daily shows of the Tree of Life—the icon of the Italian Pavilion at Expo 2015, involving more than 1,500 shows in six months. “The positive trend is that the audience demands more involvement and participation,” they say. “Let’s say that the entertainment market has become more challenging—innova- tive concepts but above all the ability of delivering a strong emotional-impact win.” Barkley Kalpak Agency New York www.bka.net Jeff Kalpak 80 to 90 $13 million to $16 million Highlights this year have included the MasterCard sales leadership meeting in Buenos Aires for 420 sales leaders from throughout the world, featuring a dynamic in-the-round opening session. “Experiential marketing is now in a place where events are no longer on the fringes of the marketing mix; they are the center of it,” management says. “We’ve had to shift our focus to the attendees at the center of those experiences as influencers—a savvy bunch with short attention spans and finely tuned B.S. meters, armed with an opinion, a mobile device and followers.” Broadstreet New York www.broadstreet.com Mark Baltazar 29 $15 million “The frenzy to incorporate technology appears to be settling,” management says. “Clients are asking for ‘selfie moments’—ex- periences and personalities that provoke an automatic response from attendees to snap a shot to post online. At the same time, attendees are gravitating towards events that provide commu- nity, human interaction and non-digital shared experiences.” 5OTOPEvent Companies 14TH ANNUALS S The three C’s: context, content and creative. These are the keys to developing effective special events today, say these big event companies in our annual report, a Special Events exclusive. While other professions struggle to create engag- ing content to share online, the event industry has been sitting on a gold mine all this time. We extend the reach of in- person events via digital media—touching the world while winning hearts and minds. EDITED BY LISA HURLEY
- 13. Event Companies SP ECIA LEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 12 BUCOM International Chicago www.bucom.com Darlene Krammer 25 to 30 $10 million Company points with pride to its 28 years offering logistics and creative services for corporate events, meetings and incentives to “Fortune 500 companies throughout the world.” Management notes these major trends affecting clients: Security and travel advisories, tighter meeting-spend restrictions for health care professionals, strategic meetings management platforms, and “off the beaten path” destinations. Corporate Magic Dallas www.corporate magicinc.com Jim Kirk 15 $20 million A 2015 highlight: Corporate Magic was chosen as the event production company for the Salvation Army’s 150th anniversary. Nearly 16,000 “Salvationists” from 126 countries gathered in London for a week-long celebration while millions streamed the proceedings online. See page 9 for the story. “Interactive entertainment is trending toward a more unique, personal and immersive experience,” management says. “As an alternative to music entertainment, interactive team-building activities reinforce the attendee becoming a meeting participant.” Drury Design Dynamics New York www.drurydesign.com Jill Drury 15 $10 million to $12 million Busy this year with the IBM Interconnect launch, IBM’s biggest customer event ever. The show consisted of interactive touchscreens linked to a massive center screen, and 15,000 interactive LED wristbands linked across two venues. On tap for 2015: More social integration within all aspects of an event, shorter and more visual talks, and events that “blur the lines” between main-tent sessions, expos and workshops into single spaces, management says. E=MC2 Calgary, Alberta www.emc2events.com Jocelyn Flanagan 100 $15 million A highlight of the last year: the company’s work on the LIMITLESS gala for the Special Olympics Canada, which was re-imagined to yield more than $450,000 in net profits—double the results from previous years. Management points with pride to its government-issued safety certificate and health and safety program; “Safe events will keep our industry thriving,” they say, “and that is a trend we never want to see disappear.” Enterprise Events Group San Rafael, Calif. www.eeginc.com Richard Calcaterra, Matthew Gillam 86 $32 million The company notes its expertise since 1994 in providing full-service, “world-class” global event management to Fortune 500 clients, with programs for from 10 to 20,000 attendees. Big trends will be the continuation of integrated technology solutions for strategic meetings management; providing ROI for meetings based on data; the use of virtual reality applications and devices; and events held in an “un-conference” style. The bad news: “A difficult trend for third parties has been the lack of availability and space from hotels and venues.” Eventmakers Toluca Lake, Calif. www.eventmakers. com Guy Genis, Mark Genis 50 to 75 $17 million Notable events have included Infiniti’s Go Zero to Infiniti featuring Formula One drivers and the Q50 Eau Rouge prototype debut in Austin, Texas; Ubisoft’s Watch_Dogs media launch in Chicago; and the ESPN Humanitarian Awards in Los Angeles. Video mapping augmented with live entertainment is a exciting trend in the industry, management says: “For the Azteca upfront at the Best Buy Theater in New York, video-mapped scenic elements on stage were combined with live choreo- graphed dance numbers in sync with the video content.” Eventum Premo Moscow www.eventum- premo.ru Alexander Shumovich 52 $8 million Noteworthy events over the past year have included the launch of the Volvo XC90 and Kia Sor- rento as well as the Megaforum Oriflame for 7,500. “A great trend in 2015 is looking for new innovative formats—the merge of business, entertainment, sport, charity, artistic and cul- tural events into new multi-format events,” management says. EventWorks Los Angeles www.eventworks.com Ted Bowers, Janet Elkins 150 $9.5 million Highlights of the year have included EventWorks turning a parking garage into a speakeasy with a surprise reveal to inspire 500 executives to see their properties’ possibilities in a new light, and a custom, high-energy 1K “electric color run” celebrating a client’s incentive travel program while launching an energy drink. “In food and beverage, it’s all about the South,” management says. “Microbrewed craft beers are all the rage, and moonshine is legal and hip again. In music, we see a trend back to classic bands, ranging from Jazz Age elegance to indie folk and bluegrass sounds that go perfectly with cornbread.” Extraordinary Events Sherman Oaks, Calif. www.extraordinary events.net Andrea Michaels 40 $10 million to $12 million Busy this year with grand openings, including a four-day event to showcase downtown Summerlin, Nev., for 250,000 attendees. Also oversaw shopping center openings in the U.S. and Canada, ongoing events for longtime client Sysmex Corp., and CEMEX’s annual bankers and investors meeting. The past 12 months have seen the corporate event world blend more with a “festival-style” environment for participants, they say. “In addition, there has been more emphasis on crowd-sourcing to be more inclusive and collaborative for each participant, which gives companies more input from viable resources and adds value to event expenditures.” Feats Inc. Baltimore www.featsinc.com Robyn Brenza 130 $11.5 million to $13.7 million Client work for Harvard Business School and the Smithsonian Institution, among other top universities and nonprofits, took the team to five continents. Using a range of storytelling and engagement strategies, “We helped National Acad- emy Foundation introduce their new brand through four plenaries and a motivating awards event.” There’s a downside to social media: “One of the challenges we see is people who believe they can multi-task while they’re at an event, working to get that best shot or quote to tweet or text. As a result, guests can miss the power of the experience,” manage- ment says. “The more we can co-create events with attendees, without losing what matters to our clients, the more likely we can overcome the increasing levels of distraction that often prohibit guests from really engaging at the event.” Filmmaster Events Dubai, Milan, Rome www.filmmaster events.com Antonio Abete, Piero Cozzi 39 $45 million Hands down, the highlight of the year has been Filmmaster’s work overseeing Milan Expo 2015, including the opening ceremony, they say. FreemanXP New York www.freemanxp.com Dan Hoffend 5,000 plus $250 million The event roster over the past year has included work for Google, Cisco, Visa, Marketo, ExxonMobil and Hitachi Healthcare, among others. “FreemanXP has seen an increased demand for intelligent and beautifully executed special events programs,” management says. “As the integration of live and digital becomes increasingly important, we feel data collection and analysis is a priority for event marketers looking to make an impact. It is our belief that technology doesn’t hinder face-to-face relationships, but rather enhances the audience experience, and to that end, we’ve launched our award-winning second-screen technology—FXP | Touch.” Also big: “Tighter brand experience integration between day and evening activities. Special events and headline entertain- ment—which is back!—inspire emotional responses that connect our clients and attendees through a shared brand experience, an experience that must be aligned with business objectives.” 5OTOP Event CompaniesS
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- 15. George P. Johnson ExperienceMarketing Auburn Hills, Mich. www.gpj.com Chris Meyer 2,300 $275 million plus Longtime specialists in experiential marketing oversees user conferences, brand-enhancing trade show exhibits, and actionable sponsorships. The agency is tracking several trends: the transformation of “digital” as a separate category to one that is a natural part of any experiential program; the use of social listening tools to provide real-time adjustment of programs; the analysis of “big data” to create actionable programs and better user-centric event journeys; and the desire of clients for one-stop shops—that is, agencies that can deliver strategy, creative, production, fabrica- tion and analytics. GMR Marketing New Berlin, Wis www.gmrmarketing. com Cameron Parsons 130 $10 million to $15 million (Special Events estimate) The team took over New York’s Times Square with an actual tennis court for an Esurance-sponsored fan festival to kick off the U.S. Open, and helped HP connect with the filmmakers of tomorrow through “Sundance House”—a robust hospitality/creativity/ content play at the Sundance Film Festival. “While brands are devoting more money to sponsorship than ever before, in many cases the big bucks they’re spending primarily reach the relatively small amount of people who are actually on the ground at live events,” management says. “We’ve seen our clients putting a huge emphasis on high-quality real-time content to capture and amplify the on-the-ground excitement.” Go West Creative Nashville, Tenn. www.gwcg.com David A. Fischette 80 $14 million Besides moving its headquarters to Nashville, Tenn., Go West also moved its other offices in L.A., Las Vegas and New York to new locations—“We are now poised to better service our clients all over the continental U.S.,” management says. The trend in one word: Content. “So no matter how cool your ultra-wide screen or your video mapping is, if you don’t have compelling content that is both visually dynamic and effective at communicating the brand and key initiatives, you have failed,” they say. Hargrove Inc. Lanham, Md. www.hargroveinc.com Tim McGill 600 $60 million Hargrove “hit the ground running” this year with key roles in inaugurations, including the gubernatorial inaugurations in Oklahoma, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee and Maryland. Also busy with the White House Summit to Counter Violent Extremism in Washington, the 2015 U.S.-China Stra- tegic and Economic Dialogue, and the 2015 Global Entrepreneurship Summit in Nairobi, Kenya. “Event guests want environments in which they are immersed in the organization and its brand,” management says. “They want to be placed in an environment complete not only with social media integrations, but also with face-to-face interactions.” Henry V Events Portland, Ore. www.henryvevents. com Matt Harper 100 plus $15 million to $16 million “From Adidas Nations, Daimler–Freightliner Inspiration and ATA Celebration Dinner, Knowledge Universe’s National Celebrations to Tillamook’s Pop- up Farmers Market, Henry V continues to deliver amazing experiences,” management says. Rising prices from venues and venue third-party suppliers are an issue, management warns: “Careful contract negotiations and fine line-item management are crucial in controlling expenses for clients.” Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/se and check the box for 752 WEBB EVENT PRODUCTION MAKE NO SMALL PLANS OR SMALL IMPRESSIONS Go ahead and make plans. Any size plans. Because from the initial concept to the final cleanup, Webb assures that the only thing bigger than your event will be the impression you leave behind. Contact Dave: 801-499-7801 eventproduction@webbav.com www.webbav.com EVENTS 5OTOP Event CompaniesS
- 16. Index Bangkok www.indexcreative- village.com Kreingkrai Kanjanapokin, Kreirngkarn Kanjanapokin 71 $59 millionThe agency’s capabilities include event production and design, online and interactive media, and exhibition design and production. InVision Communications San Francisco www.iv.com Rod Mickels 140 to 160 $57.5 million This year’s event roster has included the Genentech NSM 2015, Cisco Velocity, EMC World 2015, Gartner Symposium, Oracle OpenWorld, Cisco Partner Summit 2015, Amway Achievers, Cisco Internet of Things World Forum, Microsoft Global Exchange, and Kiehl’s Sales Manager Conference. The “Internet of things”—where everyday objects have Internet connectivity—is becoming more prevalent at events. “We have a newer generation of people who expect everything to ‘do something’” they say. “You’ll see more interactive displays, virtual reality, attendee-tracking/wearable technology, data visualization, gamification, etc., at events.” InVNT New York www.invnt.com Scott Cullather 575 $50 million Busy this year with projects such as Equinox The Pursuit, which not only cohered with the Equinox’s branding but stood out amidst a busy SXSW festival environment, and the GMNA Cadillac ATS-V regional media drive. InVNT will now produce programs for Time Inc.; “Leveraging live media to complement traditional and digital advertising is a growing trend in the marketplace, and one we can expect from Time Inc. as it looks to [its] newly acquired InVNT to provide expertise in live events.” Jack Morton Worldwide Boston www.jackmorton.com Josh McCall 1,000 plus $100 million (Special Events estimate) This global brand experience agency is known for event marketing, promotional marketing, digital, social and mobile communications, sponsorship marketing and employee engagement. Good trends: “We create experiences that strengthen the relationships between brands and the people who matter most to them. Creating a seamless experience between live and digital is our continued goal.” Bad trends: “Not really—we’re optimists!” JHE Production Group Harrisburg, N.C. www.gojhe.com Jay Howard 300 $20 million This year’s event roster has included the Wake Forest University “Wake Will” Campaign, NASCAR Acceleration Nation, Pinehurst Concours d’Elegance, and “BuzzFest”—the NBA Charlotte Hornets welcome-home party. “Partners are most interested in event experiences so people connect with the event and the brand,” management says. “Social media assists partners with this message. Consumers are more likely to share on social media versus giving out email addresses and phone numbers.” JNR Corp. Irvine, Calif. www.jnrcorp.com Jim Jalet, LuAnn Jalet 45 plus $30 million A busy year with exciting headline entertainers and one-of-a-kind activities for events across the U.S. and around the world. Management sees “a continuous demand for experiential el- ements to amplify events,” which involves “fusing digital, social and personal touches to connect with attendees.” Live Marketing Chicago www.livemarketing. com Anne Trompeter 25 to 50 $10 million Specialties include trade show marketing, meetings and events, interactive media, content develop- ment, and staffing. “From a 118-iPad wall that transformed four disparate groupings into a single storytelling infographic, to interactive tablet tours combining audience response and interactivity, we’re building completely new ways to engage and tell stories,” they say. Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/se and check the box for 753 5OTOP Event CompaniesS
- 17. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 16 Luminous Experiential MSL Group Hong Kong, Singapore www.luminous-asia. com Dave Low 50 $17.5 million This year’s event roster has included the Fidelity Global Market Outlook luncheon, Hai Tong press conference launch, CLSA Forums, City of Dreams grand opening in Manila, Fortinet Fast and Secure Conference, ANZ World Business Forum 2015, and Audi Driving Experience 2015. Technology is revolutionizing the event marketplace, with a focus on delivering digital solutions alongside experiential ones for a longer lasting campaign and amplification for the brand and event key message, management says. “Gone are the days of a simple themed gala or cocktail; now there is a reason behind every touch point of the guest’s/client’s journey.” MGM Resorts Event Productions Las Vegas www.mgmresorts events.com Jim Murren 1,300 $16 million Highlights have included the Rock in Rio USA partnership with MGM Resorts, held on a 33-acre open-air venue on the Vegas Strip; and the Conven- tion Industry Council Hall of Leaders event held in conjunction with IMEX America at Mandalay Bay. The good: Social marketing, technological advances, sophisticated buyers and an increase in interactive event elements. And the bad: Shorter and shorter lead times, along with tighter budgets. Opus Events Agency Beaverton, Ore. www.opusagency.com Grant Hammersley 600 $41 million Busy this year with projects for Amazon, EMC, Daimler and Alaska Airlines; the Alaska Airlines event included a social media-based “photobomb” campaign culminating in an “ultimate Portland Timbers fan experience.” “Brands are seeking ‘larger than life’ designs,” management says, “transporting attendees via outsized wall-covering graphics, two- story booths, neon lights, video mapping, and more.” Pacific Event Productions San Diego www.pacificevents. com George Duff, Joanne Mera 840 $10 million The element of surprise is trending for clients, management says: “We have been crafting reveals on a large scale with headliner entertainment, down to smaller effects with lighting and rotating set changes. Clients have been awed by the reaction of guests.” Party Planners West Los Angeles www.ppwinc.com Patricia K. Ryan 25 plus $22.8 million Serving corporate events since 1981; famed for its work with the NFL Experience. Paulette Wolf Events and Entertainment Chicago www.paulette wolfevents.com Jodi Wolf 75 to 100 $10 million PWEE has had a full slate of events this year includ- ing the groundbreaking of the 1060 project for the Chicago Cubs, product launch events for NetApp, CDW and Cisco, along with a private anniversary event featuring Maroon 5. The big trend: events as communities. “Events are no longer two- or three-day programs, but create a community that starts before the event begins and continues well beyond the event to create a broader footprint,” management says. “Planners must think about a longer life cycle utilizing technology and social media.” Pico Global Services Ltd. Hong Kong www.pico.com Lawrence Chia 330 $300 million “We diversified our service offerings into the field of integrated marketing, allowing us to win contracts with high-profile brands including Dow, Li and Fung, and Yonex in China,” they say. Pico also worked on Art Basel and Art Central in Hong Kong; launch and promotional events for global car brands including Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Rolls-Royce; and the Argentina, Brunei, Cambodia and Malaysia pavilions at Expo Milano 2015. “With the linear customer journey now a thing of the past, brands are becoming obliged to create omni-channel experiences for their customers, allowing them to easily move between online and offline experiences,” management says. “We’ll be seeing much more of this in the future—‘buy now’ buttons on mobile phone searches, short and snappy promotional videos on photo- sharing apps, and ever-more engaging and creative O2O [online to offline] campaigns. It’s an exciting time to be in this business!” Podegiki Moscow www.podegiki.ru Mikhail Voronin 150 $12.3 million The year’s event roster has included big events for Bayer, Janssen and Svyaznoy. Two big trends: Multi-format events and the focus on ROI. “Clients want to know exactly how their expenses will be paid off,” management says. “They require the calculation of performance indicators and want them to be more predictable.” Pulse220 Detroit www.pulse220.com Craig Erlich 135 $20 million “We are on an ‘anniversary’ tear,” management says, with 100th anniversary events for Henry Ford Health Systems and PriceWaterhouseCoopers Detroit, 50th anniversary for Gatorade, and 30th anniversary for QuickenLoans. What’s hot: Technology integration into every aspect of the event including before, during and after, with an emphasis on the social media amplification opportunities that occur after the event, they say. Sequoia Productions Los Angeles www.sequoiaprod. com Cheryl Cecchetto 25 to 40 $12 million to $20 million This year’s event roster has included the Academy Awards Governors Ball, Primetime Emmys Gover- nors Ball, G’Day USA, Horton Plaza Park opening, Special Olympics Opening Reception, and events for the UCSF Medical Center and Goldman Sachs. Drones are the new big thing in events, they say; “However, personalized service and attention to detail are still the focus of our management style. Incorporating a social media component and bigger/better events for smaller budgets are still in vogue.” Switch St. Louis www.liberateyour brand.com Mike O’Neill 8,220 $25.9 million This year the team produced Primerica’s biennial employee meeting at the Georgia Dome and NASCAR’s Sprint Cup Series Champion’s Week. Management notes increased focus on quality of engagement, measurement of reach online, social media interaction, and pre- and post-event communication. Tamar Productions Chicago www.tamar productionsinc.com Mary Ann Rose 120 to 150 $14 million Busy this year with the Magnificent Mile Association gala and Chicago Police Foundation True Blue event. “Everyone wants to be high tech, but doesn’t want to spend the dollars,” management says. “On the other hand, we’re seeing a lot of the old-fashioned decor coming into play.” TBA Global New York www.tbaglobal.com Paula Balzer 100 $42 million Big projects this year have included the Connect + Discover Summit for Stratasys and the OnePlus 2 global launch. “Our clients are super-clear that their audience wants to be participants; they want to be active listeners,” management says. “How do we bring a process to the table that shifts the dynamic? The answer is neuromarketing, using three simple questions to put objective rather than subjective measurement in place. By integrating breakthroughs in data, neuro and behavioral sciences, we has been able to analyze millions of data points of individuals all around the world, to come up with a cluster approach about how to speak to an audience. We can now know exactly why people like what they like and do what they do, and therefore we know how to influence their behavior.” 5OTOP Event CompaniesS
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- 19. Uniplan Cologne, Germany www.uniplan.com Christian Zimmermann 210 $37million The team has worked on the SCA Volvo Ocean Race, Hong Kong Fashion Week, Volkswagen Up! launch event, Moet Chandon Asian Film Awards, Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maybach launch, Microsoft Tech-Days, Longines Hong Kong Masters, Maserati Drive and Sail, Huawei Global Analyst Summit, and Jaguar Land Rover Discovery Sport launch. Four big trends from Uniplan: Measurement of ROI, identifying which event investments should grow and expand and which clients should discontinue or reconsider; establishing stronger relationships with clients; developing content marketing and events; and developing branded content and storytelling. Vok Dams Group Wuppertal, Germany www.vokdams.de Colja M. Dams 350 plus $185 million Besides noteworthy events all over the world for marquee accounts such as BMW, Lamborghini, BASF and Goodyear, the team is proud to have won new clients including Jeep, Pepsi and Adidas. “Live campaigns have become state of the art,” manage- ment says. “Strategic measures are moving events from the communicative periphery right into the overall center of the campaign. By optimally catering for the demands of different target groups, live communication now generates content for the overall campaigns.” VWV Group Chicago www.vwv.com Kelly Massey 50 to 75 $10 million to $15 million This year’s event roster has included work for longtime client Nando’s restaurant and new client Optimal Blue. The financial software company hired VWV to produce its annual conference, which included an “unforgettable” closing reception at the Belltower, a restored church in the heart of downtown Nashville, Tenn. “While the economy has fully recovered from its low point, budget constraints have remained,” management says. “As marketers and planners continue to seize the young adult market through social media, experiential agencies will garner more marketing dollars and control of the creative. Experiential is very powerful when the right event is crafted from a strong brief and objectives.” Webb 360 Productions Salt Lake City www.webbav.com Steve Webb 45 $16 million Webb is in the process of producing and managing DoTERRA Essential Oils International Convention; “With 30,000 attendees, this will be the largest convention ever held in Utah,” management says. The company also partnered with DOMO helping to create and manage its many parties during the four-day DOMOPALOOZA. The hot item: large screens. Why? “Producing an event is a com- pany’s second-largest expenditure, and it’s important that the attendees are engaged, entertained and educated, giving their full attention to what’s happening on the stage,” management says. “Large screens help accomplish this.” NOTE: UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED, ALL INFORMATION IS PROVIDED BY THE COMPANIES LISTED. ALL FIGURES ARE IN U.S. DOLLARS. WHILE EVERY EFFORT IS MADE TO ENSURE ACCURACY, ERRORS AND OMISSIONS SOMETIMES OCCUR. SHOULD YOU BE ON THIS LIST? PLEASE SEND AN EMAIL TO INFO@SPECIALEVENTS.COM. THANK YOU! © PENTON. BOOK YOUR FREE ONLINE DEMO TODAY. CURRENT-RMS.COM Cloud rental management software One centralized system, managing your entire rental business from any device, anywhere. Engaging Quotes Proposals Labor Transport Management Product Availability Planning One Affordable Monthly Fee FREE30 DAY TRIAL Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/se and check the box for 755 5OTOP Event CompaniesS
- 20. 2015 BEST CATEREDEVENT Sinners and Saints Wendy Haralson The St. Anthony Hotel www.thestanthonyhotel.com ISES Chapter: San Antonio 2015 BEST CORPORATE EVENT UNDER $75,000 USD White Hangar Lounge Linda Cauiola Canto Event Management www.cantoeventmanagement. com ISES Chapter: Arizona 2015 BEST CORPORATE EVENT $75,000 - $150,000 USD Employee Holiday Celebration Carrie Wosicki Alex and Ani www.alexandani.com ISES Chapter: Rhode Island -AND- Megan Duclos Alex and Ani www.alexandani.com ISES Chapter: Rhode Island 2015 BEST CORPORATE EVENT OVER $150,000 USD BC/Vancouver Night - Show Us Your Adventurous Side Keri Miller, CSEP e=mc2 events www.emc2events.com ISES Chapter: Calgary 2015 BEST ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION UNDER $25,000 USD Circus Spectacular Kevin Hall Halls of Entertainment www.hallsofmagic.com ISES Chapter: Minneapolis-St. Paul 2015 BEST ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION $25,000 - $75,000 USD Sailabration Michael Brown, CSEP Hello Las Vegas www.hello-usa.com ISES Chapter: Las Vegas 2015 BEST ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION OVER $75,000 USD An Evening in the International Gallery of Arts Debbie Meyers-Shock, CSEP BRAVO! Productions Entertainment Inc. www.bravoentertainment.com ISES Chapter: Dallas -AND- Mark Wells Hello! Destination Management www.hello-dmc.com ISES Chapter: Orlando 2015 BEST EVENT DESIGN/DECOR UNDER $25,000 USD Cozy GLAM Ken Kristoffersen, CSEP, CEM, CEC POP Kollaborative Inc. www.pophasawebsite.com ISES Chapter: Toronto -AND- Bryan Bell Décor More www.decorandmore.com ISES Chapter: Toronto 2015 BEST EVENT DESIGN/DECOR $25,000 - $75,000 USD Association Masters Wonderland After-Party Holly Loulan Hello! Destination Management www.hello-dmc.com ISES Chapter: Orlando 2015 BEST EVENT DESIGN/DECOR OVER $75,000 USD Gilded Glory Lynn Fletcher, CSEP Lynn Fletcher Weddings www.lynnfletcherweddings.com ISES Chapter: Calgary -AND- Bryan Bell Décor More www.decorandmore.com ISES Chapter: Toronto 2015 BEST EVENT FILMMAKING Mandap Madness Bob Ridge IndyVisual www.indyvisual.com ISES Chapter: Indiana 2015 BEST EVENT FOR A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION UNDER $75,000 USD Fall Scholarship Dinner William Smiley, MBA The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences www.cfaes.osu.edu/development/ events ISES Chapter: Columbus 2015 BEST EVENT FOR A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION $75,000 - $150,000 USD Humanitarian of the Year Trace Kingham Kingham Signature Events www.eventdesign.expert ISES Chapter: Orlando 2015 BEST EVENT FOR A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION OVER $150,000 USD 5th Annual “Build the Center” Benefit Michelle Rathbun Chromis Event Strategies LLC www.chromisevents.com ISES Chapter: Greater Washington, DC 2015 BEST EVENT LOGISTICS AND SUPPORT SERVICES Three Guinness World Records in 90 Minutes Raymond Ramsay Raymond Ramsay Associates Inc. www.raymondramsay.com ISES Chapter: Orlando 2015 BEST EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY Elevate: WestJet Christmas Party Stephanie Leblond Leblond Studio Inc. www.leblondstudio.com ISES Chapter: Calgary 2015 BEST EVENT SOLUTION The 12th Man Lighting Spectacle Niki McKay Blue Danube Productions www.bluedanubeproductions.com ISES Chapter: Seattle 2015 BEST EVENT WITH A LEGACY LIMITLESS: The Special Olympics Canada Gala Keri Miller, CSEP e=mc2 events www.emc2events.com ISES Chapter: Toronto 2015 BEST INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTION Innovation in the Green Sector of Events Kate Patay, CPCE Creative Coverings www.creativecoverings.com ISES Chapter: Las Vegas 2015 BEST INDUSTRY INNOVATION SAP Innovation Express Sameer Tobaccowala Shobiz Experiential Communications Pvt. Ltd. www.shobizexperience.com ISES Chapter: Member At Large 2015 BEST MARKETING/DESIGN COLLATERAL UNDER $25,000 USD Harry Potter Birthday Invite Wendy Segal Radius Event Design www.radiuseventdesign.com ISES Chapter: New England THINK ISES ... ATHE PRINCIPAL ASSOCIATION REPRESENTING THE CR EATIV E EV ENTS PR OFESSIONAL, GLOB ALLY Esprit Award Winners Bimonthly Publication of the International Special Events Society . September/October 2015 Congratulations to all of the 2015 ISES Esprit Award Winners!
- 21. B BIMONTHLY PUBL ICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SPECIAL EV ENTS SOCIETY INSIDE ISES... 2015 BEST MARKETING/DESIGN COLLATERAL OVER $25,000 USD Navigate ’14 Nikki Armesto Red Velvet Events Inc. www.redvelvetevents.com ISES Chapter: Austin -AND- Tracy K. Greene Red Velvet Events Inc. www.redvelvetevents.com ISES Chapter: Austin 2015 BEST MEETING/CONFERENCE PROGRAM OVER $250,000 USD NADA is Driven Wild with Exciting Innovative Experiences Caitlin Alvarez ACCENT on Arrangements Inc., a DMC Network Company www.accent-dmc.com ISES Chapter: New Orleans 2015 BEST PUBLIC EVENT Losar with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama Jodi M. Collen, CSEP Augsburg College www.augsburg.edu/events ISES Chapter: Minneapolis-St. Paul -AND- Seth Lienard Augsburg College www.augsburg.edu/events ISES Chapter: Minneapolis-St. Paul 2015 BEST SOCIAL EVENT UNDER $25,000 USD Glamping Morris Goen Goen South www.goensouth.com ISES Chapter: San Antonio 2015 BEST SOCIAL EVENT $25,000 - $75,000 USD The Lake’s 45th Anniversary Celebration Johnell Huebner Clearly Classy Events www.clearlyclassyevents.com ISES Chapter: Austin 2015 BEST SOCIAL EVENT OVER $75,000 USD Adriapalooza Lori Hart Silhouette Group www.SilhouetteGroup.com ISES Chapter: New York Metro 2015 BEST TECHNICAL PRODUCTION JUNO Gala Dinner Awards Keri Miller, CSEP e=mc2 events www.emc2events.com ISES Chapter: Vancouver 2015 BEST WEDDING UNDER $75,000 USD Falen + Paul Derby Inspired Wedding Matthew Trettel The Wedding Guys® www.theweddingguys.com ISES Chapter: Minneapolis-St. Paul 2015 BEST WEDDING $75,000 - $150,000 USD Anne Marie and Jamie’s Tartan Wedding Deborah Elias, CSEP, CMP Elias Events www.eliasevents.com ISES Chapter: Houston 2015 BEST WEDDING OVER $150,000 USD Black and White Tented Affair Marianne Cafaro Viva Bella Events www.vivabellaevents.com ISES Chapter: Cincinnati 2015 BEST ISES EVENT VOLUNTEER COLLABORATION ISES Live 2014 - Seattle Claudette Bouton Pate Goldner Associates www.goldnerassociates.com ISES Chapter: Greater Atlanta David Doxtater The Workshop www.workshopevents.com ISES Chapter: Seattle Anne Finzer Wadlow CEO Corporate Event Organization Inc. www.ceoinc.ca ISES Chapter: Edmonton Kathy Newby, CERP The Stuart Rental Co. www.stuartrental.com ISES Chapter: Member At Large Erica Prewett A Big To Do Event www.abigtodoevent.com ISES Chapter: Greater Atlanta Terry Shields, CSEP Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek www.rosewood mansiononturtlecreek.com ISES Chapter: Dallas Terry Singleton, CSEP, CDMP CCP Events www.ccpevents.com ISES Chapter: Greater Atlanta Tamra Sipes, CSEP, CEP, ECC, LCS Platinum Travel Events www.platinumeventsgrp.com ISES Chapter: Seattle Shelly Tolo, MPM TOLO Events LLC www.toloevents.com ISES Chapter: Seattle Kelly Treadway EventCurious www.eventcurious.com ISES Chapter: Greater Atlanta 2015 BEST ISES TEAM EFFORT UNDER $75,000 USD 2014 AFR Chicago Networker Ryan Campbell AFR Event Furnishings www.afrevents.com ISES Chapter: Greater Chicago Tracy Black Kaiser Tiger www.kaisertiger.com ISES Chapter: Greater Chicago Val Braun Arena Americas www.arenaamericas.com ISES Chapter: Greater Chicago Lisa Bryant Food for Thought www.fftchicago.com ISES Chapter: Greater Chicago Erica Buss Tasty Catering www.tastycatering.com ISES Chapter: Greater Chicago Erin Dahl Sellers Revel Decor Inc. www.therevelgroup.com ISES Chapter: Greater Chicago Carey Smolensky Carey Smolensky Productions Presents STORM Interactive Entertainment www.cspworldwide.com ISES Chapter: Greater Chicago Derrick Valenti Drape Kings www.drapekings.com ISES Chapter: Greater Chicago 2015 BEST ISES TEAM EFFORT $75,000 - $150,000 USD Ana Russell’s Wedding Johnell Huebner Clearly Classy Events www.clearlyclassyevents.com ISES Chapter: Austin Carrie Beamer Flora Fetish www.florafetish.com ISES Chapter: Austin Luke Johnston Whim Event Rentals www.whimeventrentals.com ISES Chapter: Austin Leslie LaSorsa Crave Catering www.crave-catering.com ISES Chapter: Austin 2015 BEST ISES TEAM EFFORT OVER $150,000 USD New Cancer Hospital Grand Opening Celebrations Tracy Moran, CSEP Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center www.wexnermedical.osu.edu ISES Chapter: Columbus Bill Ferguson, CSEP, CERP Event Source www.eventsource.net ISES Chapter: Columbus Nick Harper Bartha www.bartha.com ISES Chapter: Columbus Jenny James Cameron Mitchell Premier Events catering.cameron mitchellpremierevents.com ISES Chapter: Columbus Melissa Johnson Cameron Mitchell Premier Events catering.cameron mitchellpremierevents.com ISES Chapter: Columbus
- 22. cTHE PRINCIPAL ASSOCIATIONREPRESENTING THE CR EATIV E EV ENTS PR OFESSIONAL, GLOB ALLY INSIDE ISES... As we begin a new membership year, Jodi Collen, CSEP, ISES International president, reflects on how the association has been a vital part of her business life for the past 12 years. There is no doubt that ISES is an integral part of my life. On a profes- sional level, ISES has enabled me to develop my role and my network. I can now work with col- leagues across the U.S. and source the best products and services from suppliers that I know I can trust, because they share the same values and ethics that I do. That ISES does. On a personal level, ISES has given me the oppor- tunity to meet people I simply would never have come across otherwise. People that I rely on for advice, knowledge and connections. People from all over the world. People that I have become friends with for life. As we continue to change and evolve as an association, the last 12 months have been one of the most successful periods for ISES. We have increased our brand awareness and achieved greater engagement within the indus- try we support. The commercial and educational partnerships we have developed have enabled us to further expand our reach and influence. And, our newly launched Global Partner Program has surpassed all of our expectations, now bringing additional revenue that we are investing back into our association for the benefit of all our members. Our level of engagement across the entire industry means that as a community our voice has never been stronger and influence never greater. We are working hard to promote the power of live events to ensure that our members get the recognition they deserve for the amazing work that they do. In the last year alone, our public relations team has been able to generate over $1.5 million in media coverage. That’s another example of how ISES is helping to promote our association, our industry and everyone connected to it. For those of you who follow ISES on social media, we now have more than 40,000 connections through our social networks. That’s another powerful reason to be a part of this community; we are now the most digitally connected association in our sector. And, with over 1,200 new members joining in the last 12 months alone, we are one of the fastest growing. As we look forward to the year ahead, our evolu- tion continues, with new programs and initiatives focused firmly on delivering the greatest possible benefit and value for our members. For those of you that are part of this amazing collection of people; thank you. We appreciate your support for your association. For those of you yet to discover ISES, please join us. It’s going to be an amazing year! Growing with ISES in the Special Events Industry Name: Jodi Collen, CSEP Company: Augsburg College Address: 2211 Riverside Ave. Cb 64 Minneapolis, MN 55454-1350 Phone: 612/330-1107 Email: collen@augsburg.edu Web: www.augsburg.edu
- 23. ISES EDITORIAL TEAM ANDSTAFF ISES Editorial Committee Caroline Sewell Volunteer Editor Encore Events Inc. Greater Triangle N.C. caroline@encore-events. net Stacy Heit America’s Promise Alliance Washington, D.C. Carol Roleder Craig’s Crew Inc. Los Angeles ISES Staff Kelly Mantick Managing Editor kmantick@ises.com Kevin Hacke Executive Director khacke@ises.com Kristin Prine Operations Manager kprine@ises.com Lauren Rini Senior Coordinator of Specialty Programs lrini@ises.com Bree Burich Senior Associate of Chapter Services bburich@ises.com Natalie Kinsey Member Services Associate nkinsey@ises.com 330 N. Wabash Ave. Chicago, IL 60611 312/321-6853 info@ises.com www.ises.com How Planning and Teamwork Saved My Special Event DID YOU KNOW... A little more than a year ago, I started a fresh chapter in my life by launching Bobcat Event Management Consulting. Of course, what better way to launch this enterprise than with a special combination St. Patrick’s Day/Barbara Birthday event for 200 of my corporate and nonprofit friends and potential clients? The planning, of course, began months in advance. Just as important, I work with a diverse and highly competent group of professionals who can always be counted on to do whatever it takes to pull off a successful event. However, on March 16, I found myself in crisis mode when the hard drive on my computer crashed. On the eve of my big event, I had no access to all the documents that I created for my extravaganza, including the invitation list, run of show, press release, the photos and designs for the exhibits. Fortunately, among those diverse and highly competent people whom I had attracted to my cause was Ameer Ali, my computer god. After working with me over the phone until 3 a.m., Ameer came over at my house to conjure up those files. In the meantime, my granddaughter, Val Dennis, went onto my email and downloaded nearly every one of the files that I needed. My longtime friend Pat Howard updated the run of show and also got the guest check-in process going. Bobcat teammates Karen Glines and Catherine Ndegwa updated the press release and pulled together the press kits. My friend Debra Handley prepared hospitality badges and packets, and my friends Kathy Brandon, Delores Mars, Ernestine Simmons and Ollie Stewart and my sister, Jackie Williams, helped with reception and greeting duties at the event. When I showed up at 3 p.m.—just one hour before the start of the party—I will never forget what I encountered: perfection, or nearly so. And then I thought to myself, well of course, it had all turned out just right. Anyone who neglects to line up the very best and most reliable associates—who can deliver at crunch time—can’t possibly pull off an event for the ages with the right touch. All the planning, preparation and help of my associates created an event that ended up being crisis-proof. Name: Barbara A. Washington, CSEP Company: Bobcat Event Management and Consulting Address: 10829 Chase Park Lane, Apt. D Creve Coeur, MO 63141-5727 Phone: 314/478-2229 Email: bobcat_1955@ sbcglobal.net. Web: www.bobcatevents.com By Barbara Washington with Richard H. Weiss
- 24. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 23 Raising money is a tough job. Here, the brains behind five fabulous fundraising galas share secrets on the essentials of their events and how they keep the funds flowing. By Lisa Hurley HAVE A HEART Tolo Events has worked on the Pittsburgh Heart Ball, which benefits the American Heart Association, for 11 years. And three things never change, says Tolo Events president Shelly Tolo: The ball is held in February, which is Heart Month; the design fea- tures the color red; and the menu is heart-healthy. “The American Heart Association publishes a tool- kit called Healthy Workplace Food and Beverage—even with a section on receptions, galas and special events—so we are able to provide guidelines to the chef from the beginning,” Tolo notes. But Tolo has tweaked other elements of the ball, including the venue, ticket price, room layout and entertainment lineup. “The most significant change over the last two years is really improving the quality of the on-screen media content,” she notes. “Everything is animated and helps to provide guests with an GROWING YOUR NightofDiscovery:The 2013 Discovery Ball at the California Science Center let guests dine beneath the space shuttle Endeavour. Photo by Nadine Froger Photography. COVER STORY Gala
- 25. 24 SP ECIA LEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 immersive experience during the program and live auction.” Change matters, Tolo says. “Change for an established, well- known community gala or ball is essential for keeping it fresh for the guests, continuing to fill the ball- room year after year, and ultimately raising more money,” she says. The changes have paid off, as the Heart Ball raised a record $1.2 million in 2015. Tolo Events www.toloevents.com DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW Although the look of the Discovery Ball, benefiting the California Science Center in Los Angeles, changes every year, the event’s theme does not. The ball “tells a story throughout the evening,” explains Chris Scion, vice president of food and event services. For example, the 2015 ball cel- ebrated the center’s new exhibit of the Dead Sea Scrolls by transform- ing the traditional venue—the center itself—into various exciting, exotic settings. The cocktail party took guests back 2,000 years to the caves of Qumran, where the scribes of the scrolls hid them for safekeep- ing. Dinner was held in modern- day Jerusalem, thanks to stunning imagery of the city projected 40 feet tall (see page 3 for a photo). “For the after-party, we moved guests outside to a Bedouin village where they danced under the stars, lounged inside tents and enjoyed fire dancers,” Sion says. Changing the theme each year “begs our guests to ask the question, ‘What do they have in store for us this year?” she says. Recent changes for the Discovery Ball include updated guest registration technology (“It seemed almost prehistoric to con- tinue to use printed guest lists,” Sion says), increased ticket prices, and higher levels of table sponsor- ship, which has turned out to be a great way to boost the bottom line while holding the line on expenses. California Science Center www.californiasciencecenter. org COMING UP DAFFODILS Guests can count on many constant elements at Montreal’s famed Daffodil Ball, which benefits the Canadian Cancer Society. It’s always black-tie, it’s always a cocktail reception fol- lowed by a dinner-dance, and it’s always in April—because it always features daffodils and daffodils aren’t available later, says producer Alison Silcoff. The daffodil is the symbol of the society and forms part of its logo. This event recipe has worked since the first ball back in 1994, Silcoff says. Veteran event producer Silcoff, who will oversee the ball for her 23rd year in 2016, has watched the event grow from a lower cost affair for the first years, which relied completely on floral for decor (“It Storyteller:The 2013 Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra gala took guests on a journey through beloved storybooks (all photos this page). Photos by Stephanie Strasburg.
- 26. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 25 was important to establish a fabu- lously successful event rather than make a big profit,” she says), to one that now features elaborate themes, from Madame de Pompadour to Alice in Wonderland to the Great Gatsby. The ball’s stunning look has made it a repeat Special Events magazine Gala Award winner. The Daffodil Ball’s venue has changed only once in the last 22 years—“when we outgrew the origi- nal venue,” Silcoff notes. Although the slow economy in Quebec has pinched revenues, “The ball consistently makes a profit of more than $1.5 million,” Silcoff says. “The event is still Canada’s most successful cancer-related fundraiser, in spite of considerably increased competition. And despite a difficult economy, it is still the see-and-be-seen event of the year.” Alison Silcoff Events www.alisonsilcoff.com MUSIC, MUSIC, MUSIC For many fundraising galas, the institution’s mission is the event planner’s mantra. And for Shannon Capellupo, director of events at the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, that means showcasing the orches- tra at the Gala Award-winning Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra gala. With nine years working on the event under her belt, Capellupo notes that the single most important part of the annual fundraiser is the concert at land- mark Heinz Hall, which is followed by dinner. A pre-concert cocktail hour kicks the evening off. “So many new people are in attendance from the some 950 event guests that it offers us an opportunity to introduce the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra to new patrons, and pres- ent our loyal patrons with an amaz- ing, one-night-only experience.” Eight years ago, the event team made the decision to reach out to a younger demographic with a second, simultaneous event—the Soiree. “This event has grown over the years from 87 people to a record-breaking 450 guests last year,” Capellupo notes, and has added an additional $150,000 in revenue. Instead of diluting sponsor sup- port, the two events have boosted it. “We’ve seen companies and indi- viduals provide dual sponsorships of both events,” Capellupo says. “Companies are targeting junior executives to invite to the Soiree, who then get to spend the cocktail hour mingling with senior-level executives. We’ve also seen family support cross between both events, seeing parents and grandparents attending the gala, and their chil- dren and grandchildren at the Soiree. This is only going to benefit the long-term financial stability TakingtheSilkroad:The stunning 2015 Daffodil Ball featured the theme ‘Shanghai Silk’ (here, right). Photos by Stéphane Poirier. Thebigchill:Winter came in July for guests at Chicago’s 2015 Zoo Ball (here, below). Photos by Alain Milotti.
- 27. 125 Taylor Pkwy. Archbold,OH 43502 800.537.0540 www.biljax.com of the event and organization as a whole.” Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra www.pittsburghsymphony. org GETTING WILD AT THE ZOO BALL Where else to hold a fundraising gala for a zoo than the zoo itself? That’s the rationale behind the Zoo Ball, hosted by the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago. After guests experience the beautiful grounds and ani- mals, “It’s very easy to get them to offer support through the auction, raffle, and Fund a Need programs,” explains Christine Zrinsky, vice president for development at the zoo. It’s hard to beat summer in Chicago, and that’s part of the Zoo Ball’s appeal. The July event “is a really a fun event—it’s held out- doors in the summer, so the women get to wear colorful and fun dresses and gowns, and many of the male guests wear white dinner jackets,” Zrinsky explains. “And the gardens are glorious—much more magical than a hotel ballroom.” Sometimes adding elements to an event isn’t the answer; manage- ment of the Zoo Ball has found success in paring event programs down. “We tried a live auction about 15 years ago,” Zrinsky says, but, “It was really hard to make it suc- cessful in two big tents with 900 people in attendance. Instead, we established it as a separate event, held in November, so it doesn’t compete with the ball but draws a smaller but dedicated audience to bid on 20 or so items. The ball tends to raise at least $1 million in gross revenue—this year was $1.2 million—and the live auction is about $250,000. Both are fantastic, fun and successful events that pro- vide very significant funds to keep Lincoln Park Zoo admission free.” Lincoln Park Zoo www.lpzoo.org/about-us/ womens-board O Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/se and check the box for 756 ThepulseofthePittsburghHeartBall:The 2015 Pittsburgh Heart Ball featured a ‘Fire and Ice’ theme (here, left). Photos courtesy Tolo Events.
- 28. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 27 SWEET STATIONS Who can pass up a choose-your-own ice cream float bar or a customized crème brûlée station? Indeed, DIY dessert stations bring out the “kid in a candy store” in all of us, and are, hands down, the most popular mode of dessert delivery at events. “Guests love to choose from a variety of different flavors and either participate in finishing their own dessert or watch a chef put on the final touches,” says Debra Lykkemark, CEO of Vancouver, British Columbia-based Culinary Capers Catering. The caterer’s signature “Fire and Ice” station features mini baked Alaskas on a stick, which invites guests to choose either a brownie or blondie bite topped with a dollop of ice cream, which the chef hand-dips in meringue and then finishes with a blow torch. Similarly, a create- your-own petite cake station offers up an assortment of cake bites served with various buttercreams and ganaches, along with garnishes such as raspberries, hazelnut pralines, dulce du leche, and dark chocolate crisps. At the Royal Park Hotel in Rochester, Mich., executive pastry chef Mark Slessor puts the chill on DIY desserts at old-fashioned ice cream parlor stations, where guests can create everything from brownie sundaes and pie à la mode to ice cream floats using regional sodas. Additionally, a crème brûlée sta- tion offers guests an assortment of flavor infusions and toppings such as lavender, salted caramel, orange basil, and apple crumble streusel. Jerry Edwards, CPCE, chef and owner of Baltimore-based Chef’s Expressions Catering and Events, puts the burn on everything from the traditional crème to sugared bananas over oatmeal, and salt- and sugar-topped corn pudding at his popular brûlée stations. FOOD FOR FETES Creative, hands-on dessert stations, Asian-inspired sweets, and artisanal cheeses take the dessert course down a whole new road By Susan Cuadrado Desserts Go DIY Helpingyourself:From Culinary Capers Catering, baked Alaska on a stick (here) and DIY s’mores (below, inset). Photos by Image Maker Photographic Studios/ imps.ca.
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- 30. Therightbite:Guests at theRoyal Park Hotel enjoy mini ice cream cones (here, photo by Sam Sarkis) and pretty little pies (left, photo by Arising Images). SP EC IA LEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 29 HERBAL ESSENCE Though not necessarily a new trend, the addition of fresh herbs and savory spices to desserts is steadily increasing as desserts become slightly less sweet (i.e., un-frosted “naked cakes”) and more fruit-focused. “We are using a lot more savory items when making desserts,” says Gabrielle Moes, owner and executive chef at Ventura, Calif.-based Seasons Catering, citing her Meyer lemon- olive oil pound cake as example. “And we are incorporating a lot of herbs into our dessert menus,” she says. “They add a different flavor profile to the dessert.” Popular requests include lavender panna cotta, lemon grass ice cream with palm sugar, and rosemary-infused cookies. Slessor adds, “We like to enhance our desserts with sweeter fruits, such as pineapple and mango, and use agave nectar or honey. Fresh herbs and spices add small notes of flavor.” Edwards puts basil berry ices and tarragon and orange pots de crème on his herbal dessert menu, while Lykkemark spices up a chocolate cherry whisky cake with red and black pepper. SAY CHEESE! Speaking of savory, the beloved cheese course is getting some well-deserved play come dessert time. “I have noticed more guests opting for cheese sta- tions or cheese boards instead of traditional dessert items,” says Moes, who complements artisanal cheeses with quince paste and honeycomb. Jennifer Naylor, owner of Malibu, Calif.-based Jennifer Naylor Catering and Special Events, takes it a step further with her clas- sic French-style cheese and dessert cart service. “We do over-the-top, multilevel carts, which we wheel over to the guests’ tables,” she explains. “Servers make plates for them tableside, and guests are able to try little slivers of cheese or mini desserts, and enjoy multiple tastes and flavors.” FAR EAST TREATS Admittedly when one thinks of dessert, Asian isn’t exactly the first cuisine to spring to mind. And yet, dishes such as Naylor’s mini ginger crème brûlée and chocolate Sweettreats:Jennifer Naylor offers an ice block of frozen treats (above, photo by Isaac Hernandez) along with tiny treats (here, right; photos by Incito Photography).
- 31. RESOURCES CHEF’S EXPRESSIONS CATERING ANDEVENTS www.chefsexpressions.com CULINARY CAPERS CATERING www.culinarycapers.com JENNIFER NAYLOR CATERING www.jennifernaylor.com ROYAL PARK HOTEL www.royalparkhotel.net SEASONS CATERING www.seasonscateringca.com spring rolls with salted caramel dipping sauce, or Lykkemark’s mango jasmine parfait with jasmine tea custard, mango gelée, mango coconut foam, sesame praline, and gold-dusted custom fortune cookie prove otherwise. “We are seeing a lot of Japanese influence in our des- serts,” adds Moes, citing the yuzu fruit as a common dessert ingredi- ent. “It’s a great substitute for tra- ditional recipes that call for lemons or grapefruit.” ELEVATED ORIGINALS Yet even among the exotics, there is always room on the dessert plate for traditional favorites, dishes that have stood the test of time and only get better under a creative pastry chef’s hand. For Lykkemark, it’s all about cream puffs or, rather, “couture cream puffs,” which are elevated to elegant with two different fill- ings—one inside and one piped on top. Varieties include chocolate hazelnut cream with chocolate pastry cream, and strawberry Chantilly with strawberry powder, fresh strawberry, and basil crystal. Slessor reinvents the cake pop with a version that looks like a perfectly decorated mini cake slice. Under Naylor’s hand, a California staple— the cinnamon sugar-dusted churro—is made to order and served with melted Mexican choco- late dipping sauce. O Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/se and check the box for 758 Achillintheair:Chef’s Expressions makes ice cream tableside for guests. Photo courtesy Chef’s Expressions.
- 32. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 31 From high-tech video mapping to intricate architectural applications, lighting designers create wondrous new worlds with light By Susan Cuadrado DIVINE DECOR The Light Touch Lovelight:From Images By Lighting, a stunning party at Vibiana in Los Angeles (here, photo by Yoshi Morimoto); an entrance at an HBO party (below, photo by Gabor Ekecs); lighting a catwalk (inset, photo courtesy Images by Lighting). “Life is all about good seating and lighting.”—Graydon Carter Arguably, the same could be said about special event design. Purposefully designed and well- executed lighting establishes a mood faster and more effectively than just about any other decor element. “Lighting is the unifying design element by which all other decor elements are perceived,” says Greg Christy, president/CEO of Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif.- based Brite Ideas. “Without care- fully considered lighting, any other elements are inconsequential.” Raymond Thompson, co-owner of Los Angeles-based Images by Lighting, explains, “It’s not just about lighting some ‘thing,’ but creating a total enveloping environment.” MAKING AN ENTRANCE First impres- sions are everything, which is why entrances and pathways need care- ful consideration when it comes to lighting. “I love to light entrances with a series of layers of overlapping texture,” says Images by Lighting co- owner Curt Stahl. “It gives a sense of importance to the event.” Jon Retsky, owner and lead designer of San Francisco- based Got Light, agrees, adding pathway and landscape lighting to the top of the “to light” list. “These areas are not often a first consider- ation when planning an event,” Retsky says. “But the results can be stunning, as well as utilitarian,” he says. From the simple (staked camping path lights, solar rocks, copper hooks with dangling lanterns) to the more complex (customized
- 33. 32 illuminated inflatables), pathway lighting,he says, can have a huge impact on overall event decor. “Bold washes of light onto tree can- opies, pattern washes inside pools, and other landscape uplighting can indirectly create an amazing back- drop for outdoor events.” MAPPING IT OUT The marriage of lighting and video is ever-evolving as lighting designers seek innovative ways to transform event spaces. “As we become more visually sophisticated—content sur- rounds us on a daily basis—there is an expectation to incorporate this into our events,” Christy says. As example, he notes that an ocean-themed event from several years ago would likely have fea- tured lighting fixtures with rotating gobos to simulate water ripples. But, “Today, we utilize lightweight, bright and relatively inexpensive video projectors to paint the space not only with water ripples but sea turtles and dolphins playing,” Christy says. “This creates a much more engaging environment, and takes the decor to a more immer- sive level.” For the opening of the Los Angeles art exhibit “Pacific Standard Time,” Christy and his team mapped the iconic façade of the Getty Museum to illustrate the significance of the exhibition. Similarly, at a recent installation at the California Science Center in Los Angeles, Thompson and his team worked with video mapper Bart Kresa Design to re-create a day in ancient Israel, using video map- ping, pin spots, washes, break-up patterns and color (see page 3). Unlike wireless LED technol- ogy, however, video mapping does not come cheap. “The costs can be quite expensive; however, it can raise the design level of an event,” Retsky says. “Whether it’s simply kinetic video cut perfectly to the architecture or façade of a building, branding a building with video, or making a room ‘disintegrate’ and transform into an Egyptian tomb, there is nothing more powerful and energetic than using video as light, and frankly, using video as a scenic element to tell your story and invite guests into a fully interactive experience.” IT’S A WIRELESS WORLD Wireless LED light- ing is still under the spotlight as its applications for events continue to evolve. “Wireless LED fixtures allow the ability for easy color changes, which enable events to have transitions and mood changes throughout the evening, as well as more kinetic lighting treatments,” Christy says. “And it’s opening doors that were previously closed to event designers. For example, pin spotting in a private home several years ago just didn’t make sense because the look of the equipment would outweigh the benefit. Now, with wireless magnetic pin spots, we can highlight in new ways and in previously impossible spaces.” O RESOURCES BRITE IDEAS www.bicts.com GOT LIGHT www.got-light.com IMAGES BY LIGHTING www.imagesbylighting. com Therightlight: Got Light uses light to showcase the San Francisco Opera Gala at City Hall (left) and the Carnival Gala at the city’s landmark Grace Cathedral (right). Photos by Show Ready Photo. Worthasecondlook: Brite Ideas offers examples of selective visibility with the use of gobos and texture to highlight and focus attention (here, above). Photos courtesy Brite Ideas. SP EC IA LEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
- 34. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 33 A Facebook post about a bridal client who initially turned down a “too expensive” vendor only to return at the last minute in des- peration—and asking for the same low-ball price that the failed vendor promised—has launched a tidal wave of comments on social media. Here, Special Events shares the insights of rental professionals on how they deal with this dicey issue: SAY YES TO ‘NO’ “If someone has never thrown a major lifestyle event, then they get sticker shock when they get the quotes. We won’t compromise our quality standards to do a wedding at an unreasonable price, and we’d rather be honest with the client and even offer them a referral to other companies who might be willing to work with their budget. In the early days, I rarely said no. But I’ve learned the hard way that we can’t do every party and do them to the standard we wish.” Michael Berk, president, MM The Special Events Co., Chicago MAKING CLIENTS SMARTER “When they come in a panic because their vendor has screwed them, that’s one thing, as they really have no other alterna- tives. However, when a current client comes to you because their DIY mess blew up in their face or their cheaper vendor bailed on them, that’s when we should stand up. However, one also needs to be careful because if this client is from a preferred venue or a client refer- ral, the backlash could be worse, resulting in lost future business. I try to explain to them why the DIY fell apart and ask if now they understand why we charge what we do: because it really is hard to deco- rate, do 25 centerpieces, or set up that backdrop—which, no, cannot be picked up and moved after the ceremony! I hope to educate through explanation in an effort to stick to my price. I have to stay the course, stick to my guns, and know that eventually logic will prevail!” Tania Newman, general manager, Chair Decor Etc., Vancouver, British Columbia BECAUSE WE’RE WORTH IT “As a reputable business, our prices reflect the qual- ity of our product and service. It is our opinion that bailing someone out by matching low-ball prices devalues our product. The age-old saying of ‘you get what you pay for’ holds true in many instances. This season this has happened fairly frequently. There is far more com- petition than there ever was. With the rustic trend in high demand, we have seen many small companies pop up, offering an array of items from farm tables to chalkboards to beverage dispensers. What these companies lack is the infrastruc- ture and often the capital to handle demanding deliveries and the abil- ity to repair and replace damaged goods—often leaving the client high and dry with little notice.” Jennifer Gullins, vice president of sales and marketing, Rentals Unlimited, Stoughton, Mass. STOP BEING THE HERO “The desire to look like a real hero and match the low-ball RENTAL ESSENTIALS Is trying to salvage an event good business—or business suicide? By Lisa Hurley When the desperate DIY client calls, do you answer? Photo by ImageegamI / © Getty Images Do You Match the Desperate Client’s Low-ball Bid?
- 35. Conference: January 12-14,2016 Exhibits: January 13-14, 2016 Orange County Convention Center Orlando, Florida thespecialeventshow.com DISCOVER new techniques… UNCOVER the latest trends… LEARN from the masters… Join thousands of your colleagues at the premier tradeshow and conference for event planners, and prepare for the WOW... INTERESTED IN EXHIBITING? Contact Wanda McKnight wanda.mcknight@penton.com 913-981-6143
- 36. GladiatorTM Resin Folding Chair McCourt Exclusive! 800-333-2687info@mccourtmfg.com www.mccourtmfg.com We build ‘em better! OvationTM Portable Dance ProRentTM Plywood Folding Tables Aluminum Chiavari Chairs Commercialite® Folding Table New! Aluminum Series Gladiator TM Resin Folding Chairs price used to appeal to us before the frequency of it increased and we realized that we were getting a repu- tation of being the ‘fixers’ if something goes wrong. Inevitably, these same customers that you saved will come back to you and want you to do their next project for the same low price again. This is just another reason to stick to your business and pricing model regardless of the situation. We are being asked to come in at the last minute, with a full schedule of our own, rearrange our delivery crews and schedules, rush a process that should take weeks in preparation, and put our reputa- tion on the line. The least the customer could do is to pay us the amount we ask for. We would never penalize a customer by charging them more for the same event because we had the ability to. We demand a certain return on our equipment, and I would rather turn the customer down than have them feel we were trying to take advantage of them.” Dan Hooks, CERP, president, Party Reflections, Charlotte, N.C. POLICY MAKES PERFECT “I started a pricing policy 10 years ago, and I’m pretty ruthless. I’ve lost some clients over it but they all wanted to order two or three days before an event, and that just made me/us frantic. You earn the best price if you confirm 16 days or more in advance. Less than that, my prices increase 50 percent, and nine days or less, my prices double. In fact, yesterday a local rental company called. They had ordered spandex from somebody, and [that company] failed to perform. I told them my prices, they checked, confirmed. They didn’t like the price—they thought it was high—but they needed it. But it is not my fault that they choose an undepend- able vendor who prom- ised more than they could deliver. After the deal was completed, I sent over my price list and told them what they could pay in the future if they ordered timely.” O Bernie Gaps, owner, Absolutely Fabulous! Events and Productions, Costa Mesa, Calif. RESOURCES ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS! EVENTS AND PRODUCTIONS www.absofab.net CHAIR DECOR ETC. www.chairdecor.com MM THE SPECIAL EVENTS CO. www.mmspecialevents. com PARTY REFLECTIONS www.partyreflections.com RENTALS UNLIMITED www.rentals-unlimited.net Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/se and check the box for 759 specialevents.com C L A S S I F I E D S sellyourrentalco.com BUSINESS SALE REPRESENTATION TOP QUALITY USED TENTS All tents manufactured by Anchor Industries. All sizes and shapes available. All conditions available. Inquire about our tent- washing capabilities. Please call Tim Frost, ext. 105 or Tom Smith, ext. 141, at (203) 324-6222 or email tfrost@stamfordtent.com EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Party and Wedding Rental Equipment Building and Inventory For Sale. Owner Retiring! Special Events on the Boulevard Building $275,000 on a city block with plenty of parking. Inventory $200,000 Location: SPECIAL EVENTS ON THE BOULEVARD 2101 TEXAS BOULEVARD TEXARKANA, TEXAS 75501 CONTACT: JANE AGAN (903) 277-3161 (903) 794-2101 www.specialeventstxk.com jane.agan@specialeventstxk.com BUSINESS FOR SALE
- 37. Turn empty wineand liquor bottles into beautiful lighted works of art. Simply insert the fairy light string and battery holder through the top of the bottle and press down on top to turn on. Requires 3xAAA batteries, not included. IN SEASON STAR-STUDDED LIGHT MY BOTTLE KIT ENCHANTED ORNAMENT ADVERTISEMENT Fortune Products Inc. 800/345-4833 www.fortuneproducts.com Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/ se and check the box for 762 Air Dimensional Design® 800/680-8865 www.airdd.com Visit www.freeproductinfo.net/ se and check the box for 760 Artificial Ice Events 800/275-0185 www.artificialiceevents.com Visit www.freeproductinfo. net/se and check the box for 761 Taylor Foam 866/236-3626 | www.taylorfoam.com Visit www.freeproductinfo.et/se and check the box for 763 innovative Custom Branded Charging Stations FOR EVENTS CUSTOM FOAM DéCOR Keep attendees charged up and happy with Veloxity’s custom branded cell phone charging stations. Contact us about a free trial or our price match guarantee. Veloxity 855/844-5060 inquiry@veloxity.us http://veloxity.us Visit www.freeproductinfo. net/se and check the box for 764 Foam table decorations, stage props, cake dummies. You name it, we can do it! No job too big or small. Call toll-free 1-866-236-FOAM. Experience the latest holiday photo op attraction…the Enchanted Ornament. Guests step inside the 15’ ornament and pose for a souvenir photo. Elegant and celebratory, an overhead blanket of illuminated stars by AirDD® sets the perfect atmosphere for holiday and gala events. To advertise, contact Eliza Tano (424) 465-6601 or email etano@specialevents.com
- 38. ADVERTISERS INDEX FREE INFORMATIONFOR READERS OF SPECIAL EVENTS MAGAZINE To obtain further information, go to www.freeproductinfo.net/se and check the appropriate box. page no. reply no.page no. reply no. A-1 Tablecloth Co............................ 40.... 856 www.a1tablecloth.com Air Dimensional Design.................. 36 .... 760 www.airdd.com Artificial Ice Events......................... 36 .... 761 www.artificialiceevents.com Bellagio............................................. 13 ..... 751 www.bellagio.com Bil-jax Inc.......................................... 26 .... 756 www.biljax.com Blueprint Studios............................. 39 .... 765 www.blueprintstudios.com Broadstreet ...................................... 15 ..... 753 www.broadstreet.com CORT Event Furnishings ................ 2....... 745 www.cortevents.com Current RMS ..................................... 18 ..... 755 www.current-rms.com DNP Imaging .................................... 8....... 749 www.dnpphoto.com FASTENation.................................... 5....... 747 www.fastenation.com Feeding Children Everywhere....... 28..... 757 www.feedingchildreneverywhere.com Fortune Products............................. 36 .... 762 www.fortuneproducts.com Holo-Walls........................................ 30 .... 758 www.holowalls.com Jomar Inc.......................................... 10..... 750 www.jomaronline.com McCourt Mfg..................................... 35..... 759 www.mccourtmfg.com Mercedes-Benz Sprinter................. 7....... 748 www.mbsprinterusa.com Taylor Foam ..................................... 36 .... 763 www.taylorfoam.com The Special Event 2016 .................. 34 www.thespecialeventshow.com Treasure Island Las Vegas ............. 17 ..... 754 www.treasureisland.com Veloxity............................................. 36 .... 764 www.veloxity.us Webb 360......................................... 14..... 752 www.webbav.com Wholesale Tape Supply .............. 5....... 746 www.wholesaletape.com MARKETPLACE CALL ELIZA TANO 424.465.6601 etano@specialevents.com ADVERTISE HERE! E V E N T E Q U I P M E N T 0LEASE REFER TO #ODE !- WHEN ORDERING D E C O R / P R O P S Our newest item is a Tuscan style architectural column with Palm Top. Available in 5 sizes from 4 ft. to 12 ft. www.thecanvasnursery.com For more info call: (800) 226-3335 S I G N S G R A P H I C S
- 39. SP EC IALEVEN TS.COM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 38 For many in the industry, it’s going to be hard to imagine events without Kelly Murphy. With husband Bob DeFriest, Murphy helped pioneer the busi- ness in 1992 by founding Panache Party Rentals out of their home. Their inspiration: “There were a few key players in major markets to the west and north of us that were col- oring outside the lines with inven- tory selection,” she explains. “This intrigued and inspired us to change the rental landscape here in Florida.” With a focus on high-end linen and high-end service, the opera- tion grew steadily. In 2007, the pair elected to sell the Pompano Beach, Fla.-based firm to party rental powerhouse Classic Party Rentals, with Murphy staying on in manage- ment. But this chapter of her life is coming to a close, as Murphy recently announced she will be moving on. She says her time with Classic let her continue on the journey “to learn and experience opportunities working with amazing rental pro- fessionals throughout the country.” But hitting what she calls a personal “life speed bump” over the summer prompted her to think about what she has accomplished in the last 23 years and what more she can do. “Having more time with my hus- band and family is paramount,” she says, adding that the idea of nurtur- ing her own creativity in other areas of the industry is irresistible. So the good news is, we won’t have to imagine events without Kelly Murphy. Indeed, she says she has some client projects in the food and wine event space on her calen- dar, along with collaboration with Classic Panache and other commu- nity projects that have been “swirl- ing in my head for a long time.” Indeed, her commitment to the local community goes back over two decades. Murphy has been a longtime supporter of Share Our Strength, which helps feed needy children via its “Taste of the Nation” events. “I am very proud that all of our South Florida Taste of the Nation and Food Network South Beach Food Wine Festival [another Panache project] events coordinate a food-rescue program to ensure that no safe leftover food goes to waste after each event.” The image of the event industry has improved since her early days, she says, a boon to newbies launch- ing their careers. “The industry is maturing and is taken more seri- ously as a career than a stop-gap job-filler,” she says. “The career seg- ments have expanded, and there is much more opportunity for niche services.” What hasn’t changed: The need for “face-to-face connection of peers, clients and team members.” And for those of you eager to learn where she will head next, she says: “Stay tuned!” ● Classic Pompano Beach/ Panache 2009 N.W. 25th Ave., Pompano Beach, FL 33069; 954/971-8484; classic partyrentals.com After Party THE LAST WORD PERFECT TEAM “As a Classic Party Rentals team member, I am very proud of my role working with team members around the country for NFL Super Bowl events. Each city brings its own set of challenges—be it weather, logistics, installation and tear- down parameters— and sheer size of the events because of the prestige of the game.” PERFECT OUTLOOK “[Panache] leadership is committed to strengthening the core values of people, product and service. I see many opportunities for their growth and success ahead.” PERFECT PARTNER “I am fortunate to have the most amazing husband, friend and partner who supported me regardless of how overcommitted I am, and yet will remind me that ‘life is calling’ from time to time and to participate in today.” Party rental leader Kelly Murphy looks back— and ahead By Lisa Hurley PhotobyMichaelMurphy
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- 41. Panama Faux Linen 11 NewColors! Quality Linens that Cost Less!