TOP Team Special Events

3 Things Your Business Can Learn From the All Star Game

2010-07-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

Every year many of America's sports fans stop and watch MLB's "Midsummer Classic", the All-Star Game. This game is played by rosters of the best players each team has to offer in a concerted league effort to gain home field advantage for the World Series. Basically, the winning league's best team travels less during the title series. So you might be asking yourself, what can my event business learn from a baseball game. I'm here to tell you, quite a lot, but let's just look at the Top 3.

1. Trends are not infinite- Even when they seem to be, the good times or even the bad ones, will not last forever. History has shown us that you need to not invest too much in the present. From 1950-1987 the National League won 33 of the 44 games. But up until last night, the National League hadn't won a game since 1996. Trends can be lengthy, but betting big on them can be costly. Even in the most dominant times, there would be some losses. Going "all in" in those years would have been costly. The same can follow on large expenditures for your business and inventory. Just because it is "state of the art" today does not mean it will be in the future. Sometimes, the "next big thing" never becomes BIG at all, remember BETA, Howard the Duck or Cabbage Patch Dolls? Your investments should be sound, like a good relief pitcher, make purchases that bridge gaps and make you stronger,not ones that put you at risk. Ask any baseball executive if there is anything worse than signing an expensive free agent that never plays to their potential. You can find most of those GM's at the unemployment office.

2. Talent Helps- Hiring is key. Just as All Star teams gather the best players from around their league, you might want to look into doing the same with your staff. Too often as business owners we are passive in our hiring practices, but it would be more effective to assemble the best people from within your industry. Remember, that would not only make your organization stronger, but losing key players from their organizations will weaken your competition. Imagine the Tampa Rays taking Mariano Rivera from the Yankees or David Ortiz from the Red Sox. Those moves make them the favorites to win and severely weaken their immediate competition.

3. Good Management Wins Out- Last night, American League Manager, Joe Girardi, left Alex Rodriguez on the bench for the whole game and never used one of baseball's greatest players to help his team. His reasoning was that since he had wanted to get "everyone into the game" he was short handed when the game was being decided and he didn't want to use his last player in case of extra innings. This type of management error is seen all the time. Many managers don't handle conflict well and thus get very little out of the talent given to them. Motivation and candor are the two best weapons in a manager's arsenal for success. But worrying about the might'ves and could'ves can paralyze the decision process and send you home defeated.
Use the tools you have at your disposal the best way you know how and do not worry about the perceptions of others, their perceptions will not help in your successes or failures.

So, as the National League ends its losing streak and the American League looks to next year to bounce back, what can each one learn? The National League needs to not rest on its laurels, past performance does not guarantee future success. The American League most look to new motivations and management to make its own return to success. This battle will continue for years into the future, as Major League Baseball is still a great business model and will be successful for years. How will your business measure up?

NYC Event Legend, Deb Roth, Takes Pink Inc in New Direction

2010-06-10T09:18:00.000-07:00

JUNE 9, 2010 | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Charles J. Corsentino, Chairman, President & CEO of Moss Inc. announced that effective June 9, 2010, Moss Inc. has acquired the inventory and trade name Pink Inc.
The Pink brand name will continue under a new identity, Pink Powered by Moss. The addition of the Pink product line builds on the many synergizes to be realized by the combination of the two national Event and Rental organizations. Moss currently services clients nationwide with locations in Chicago Illinois, Salt Lake City, Utah, Belfast, Maine and Las Vegas, Nevada. This new venture will allow Moss to have a major presence in New York City, New York which has been a long desired strategy for Moss.

Debra Roth, the former owner of Pink Inc., has been named Director of Design & Creative Events for the new organization. Debra brings over 20 years of design and creative experience to the new venture. Corsentino notes that the combination of Moss and Pink will offer a wide breadth of new products and services to the market place. The regionalization of our Event and Rental products will permit Moss to service clients nationally on a more competitive and efficient basis.

Pink Powered by Moss will operate out of a new New York City location and will service clients on a regional and national basis. Mr. Corsentino said with the quick turnaround expectations from customers nationwide to deliver Fabric Structures, Print and Display Hardware products, and Event decor that is top quality, Moss will have a stronger national presence and will add more value to its offerings. Debra Roth echoed that sentiment, saying The combination of these two product lines puts together the very best of both companies and will give the market the most comprehensive Event product line in the market.

The 5 Most Iconic Dresses Ever

2010-05-22T21:00:00.000-07:00

This is less a "Special Event" blog and more one focused on design itself. Just the other day I read an article covering this very subject, but it was Britain based, and it got me thinking, "What would Americans think?". Or rather, more importantly, what do I think? So, instead of a typical blog, I gave you, dear reader, a chance to become my "Dear Watcher". Click on the TITLE or Copy the video link and see the 5 most ICONIC dresses of modern times. Watch, and let the arguing commence.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbBxjxjiASc

ISES NJ North "Says Yes, to the Best"

2010-04-29T21:16:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of fairness and full disclosure, I must let all the readers know that I sit on the Board of Directors for NJ ISES and had some involvement in this project. This is not a critique of the event, just the chronicle of my experience.

On the evening of April 28th, the NJ North chapter of ISES(International Special Events Society) hosted it's first bridal showcase, aptly titled, "Say Yes to the Best". The entire event was staged at the majestic, Pearl River Hilton. This venue has an "old world" feel, while providing every modern amenity to its guests. The feel of the place is elegant, almost causing you to lower your voice as you pass thru its doors, as a sign of respect or reverence. Upon that entrance guests were greeted by the hotel staff and directed to the registration table. Here they were given a quality tote and directed down the Hilton's stately hallway to the cocktail reception. Housed in an elegantly appointed anteroom, the cocktail reception featured gorgeous lounge furniture, provided by AFR and fantastic chamber music by Ideal Ensembles. It was quite "Ideal" when they performed some pop standards as well. But the star of the room had to be the Bridal Gowns on display by Macy's Bridal Salon. These gowns drew stares of admiration from many a bride and looked great on the models and the mannequins. Once the main room opened the guests entered a ballroom decorated with style and panache that few "trade shows" or "bridal showcases" have seen. With many of the designers showing their expertise with floral arrangements, table design and fabric solutions that any bride would be proud to "Say Yes" to for her special day. The "Happy Couples" were able to find professional and quality vendors for all of their wedding needs, valet parkers, photographers, cake decorators, limo services, djs, planners and many more. Plus, ISES held a raffle that offered huge savings and gift certificates from participating vendors for services on their special day, that benefited the "Wish Upon a Wedding" foundation. An organization that provides dream weddings to couples that are face with extraordinary challenges. While the couples discussed their upcoming day with the vendors, they were also treated to a stunning array of food choices from the Hilton, offering options from nearly every price point. In the closing hour, the guests were ushered into the "Dessert Room" for a sweet ending to their evening along with some fun and dancing provided by DTR DJs. It was here where we also learned of the winners for all of the raffles.
Perhaps, the most unique option of the evening was the "Groom's Room". This nook, designed for the oft forgotten half of the couple was outfitted with several casino tables from Audience Pleasers and a private bar staffed by the Hilton. Always remember that day is special for TWO people.
In all, it seemed to be a great success for all involved and many have asked already if there are plans for a "Say Yes" 2011. Stay tuned to the www.isesnjnorth.org website for details.

"Landmark" Networking Event for Bridal Pros

2010-04-29T20:44:00.000-07:00

On April 27th, the Landmark in East Rutherford hosted a "Networking Event for NJ Wedding Professionals" in association with a host of bridal websites and magazines. I usually avoid any "free" networking event because they are rarely a place business can get done. The attendees are almost never a decision maker and the attendance here, was no exception. Most of the folks that I met were junior level managers at hotels or vendors that were the "part timers" I try to avoid. There were a few quality vendors with tables at the expo, a promising looking cake designer aptly named A Cake Dream(acakedream.com), lead the bunch, but most of the "vendors" were the media sponsors for the event which seemed strange to me.
The Landmark hosted a buffet that looked fine, but I did not partake, and the renovation put a nicer spin on this mid range catering hall. There was a CASH bar, which is like inviting guest to your house for Thanksgiving and charging them for stuffing, but I bucked up and paid for my drinks and tipped the EXCELLENT staff well. The bartenders, wait staff and parking valets were of the highest order and should be commended for their fine work.
The effort and organization, shown by the Landmark staff, was foiled by the staff checking in guests at the door. Upon arrival guests were required to stand outside and wait to be checked in, even though the security guard outside had sorted us through on the same list as the registration people. Thus, causing a large backlog and needless stress for those that just wanted to meet some new pros. I always hold out hope that event pros will figure out the best way to register guests at their event, but I am routinely disappointed.
Overall, this was a "fine" event. There was nothing dreadful, and very little exceptional, the staff and the Marketing Director of a local Country Club that I met awaiting entrance were about it there. If you need a reasonably priced hall in southern Bergen county, the Landmark is a solid bet, with the right planners and designers your event could be as good as their staff.

Arena Throws Its Hat into the Event "Arena"

2010-04-10T09:46:00.000-07:00

Arena, one of NYC's newest Event Spaces officially threw its hat into that "arena" on Thursday, April 8th with its first industry showcase designed to introduce their venue and new Event Specialist Gina La Rochelle to the NYC "Eventaratti". Gina, an event veteran from the Oak Room, is proud of her new space's granduer, hipness and versatility, and would love to talk to all of you event insiders about hosting your product launches, fashion shows and high end mitzvahs. Gina, was brought on board Arena by NYC Promotions Mastermind, Anthony Coppers to make all of your events, special, http://www.arenanyc.net/.
Speaking of high end Mitzvahs, spotted in the crowd of networking planners was Total Entertainment founder Marc Jason, checking in on the set of his Special Event "Supergroup", Soul Solution. Famous for being the band hand picked by Paul McCartney for his wedding and named Today Show "Wedding Band of the Year" three consecutive years, Soul Solution showed that there is no slowing them down. For further information, http://www.totalentertainment.com/, for all things Soul Solution. Any event that showcases this band is off to a spectacular start.
Not only spotted in the crowd, but working it, was Josh Beckerman, one of NYC premiere magicians and entertainers. His warmth and charm were evident as always and his magic was show stopping and conversation starting, just as it should be. To make all of you event entertainment needs disappear, http://www.joshbeckerman.com/josh/.
Also not seen in the crowd, but above it, was silk fabric performer, Veruca Honeyscotch. Aptly named, the sweet and intoxicating performer blends a traditional burlesque feel with a modern sensibility. To quote Miss Honeyscotch, she's " a bit naughty, a bit nice and wholly intoxicating".
See more of her talents at http://www.myspace.com/verucahoneyscotch.
Arena itself has 2 wonderfully large projection screens that can easily add your theme to any event. Its sound and lighting systyem appears to be state of the art and its multilevel seating areas allow for both massive partying and comfortable speaking. The staff is incredibly polite and helpful. The bar and waitstaff are professional and helpful and have an understanding of the special events industry.
So, if you missed the official unveiling, make sure you put Arena on your next site inspection list as it can be what you are looking for.

Save the Date Video for ISES Bridal Showcase

2010-04-03T21:38:00.000-07:00

On April 28, 2010 ISES NJ North, in partnering with the Hilton Pearl River and the Knot.com, is producing the "Say Yes to the Best" Bridal Showcase.

Wedding Complaints....

2010-04-03T10:52:00.000-07:00

For all those in the Wedding Biz, this article is a nice view from the guestlist. Good job by Better Homes.

A Bridal Show Like No Other

2010-04-02T20:37:00.000-07:00

Are you tired of the typical "Bridal Show" ? I know I am and that's why it is so refreshing to see ISES NJ North putting together, with the Pearl River Hilton, an event that treats the Showcase as nearly as specially as the wedding. ISES is providing a full meal, an open bar and loads of vendors and entertainment to fill the day. There is even a room for the grooms with a casino and various other amenities. If you are a planner or a bride, this is the ONE showcase to attend this year.

2010-03-20T20:42:00.001-07:00

New York, N.Y.- January 4th, 2010 – The O’Malley Project introduces the “How Behind the Wow” program, designed to explain Special Events enhancements that can be performed to add value to both social and business events. This program is specifically designed to be introduced via TV and radio interview segments.
The “How Behind the Wow”, is a segment designed to explain the options consumers have while planning a special event. With an industry that has boomed over the past decade, there are more options for “WOWS” in design and in savings. This program is designed to introduce new elements in décor, entertainment, design and technology to event professionals and the business community and the general public.
“How Behind the Wow”, is entertaining in both visual and aural mediums. Since the range of topics and savings encompass an entire industry, and not just our company, the options are nearly limitless. Since this is a “sales pitch free” program, companies and organizations throughout the industry are involved, guaranteeing variety and innovation.
“How/Wow”, can be tailored to fit the theme and timeframe of your program. Please contact us for further information at; WOW@theomalleyproject.com . Contact by phone is also available by calling, (201)726-4362.
The O’Malley Project specializes in aiding special events companies manage their events and businesses in a more efficient and profitable way.

5 Ideas for an Oscar Party on a Recession Budget

2010-03-03T09:13:00.000-08:00

This week, Hollywood throws a party for itself and it allows you to do the same thing. "Hollywood" loves to be honored and so will you, if you follow some of these tips to make the night fun and modern.

1. Every Oscar party needs a "Red Carpet". Event rental companies have them in abundance and you might be able to buy a used one for pennies on the dollar. Or you can use some creativity and make your own arrival strip. Party stores sell a red paper/plastic runner that they use as a knockoff red carpet, they look terrible. However they make a great base for a creative and fun solution. In the same party store, buy several red, feather boas to attach, via hot glue or staples, to the sides of that runner. Then use your office shredder to shred pieces of red Mylar or even red paper to cover the entire runner with a fun and "fluffy" look. The boas keep the small particles from getting everywhere as people walk on them. Don't have a shredder? Buy red Mylar, Rain Curtain and cut them to pieces to cover the runner.
Added effect could be made by having your own "Step and Repeat" to have photos taken in front of.

2. Make a Punch. Nothing ruins an Oscar Party for a host like having to jump up and down and miss all the good awards(more on this later), because you guests need drinks. There is a wonderful(and fast) punch that people love that I use in the summer, but feel free to use it here.

Pour ingredients directly into punchbowl:

1 Bottle of INEXPENSIVE champagne
1 litre of club soda
1/2 gallon of strawberry sherbet
1 package of FROZEN strawberries
VODKA(amount depends upon how drunk you want guests to be, use sparingly)

Leave this on the buffet table and you needn't miss Halle cry or a crazy Italian guy jump over the seats(but, more on this later).

3. Have an "Oscar Trivia" game. Use your creativity and knowledge of your guests, to create a movie trivia challenge that can fill any holes in your evening. It is a great way for guests to mingle and show off what they know. Use this as an ice breaker or as a bridge between the exciting parts.

4. Face Book your party. Share the fun with the world or at least your world of friends that couldn't make it. If nothing else it gives you the opportunity to promote next year's party. It also gives your attendees a chance to tell you how great a host you were.

5. Watch the broadcast on Tivo: Use technology to your benefit, miss a great speech, REWIND! A wardrobe malfunction on the red carpet? FREEZE FRAME! This way you get to watch the best stuff over and over and fast forward over the majority of the night. Where was this technology when Letterman hosted???

So I hope these little tips lead to a great Oscar Night Party and you and your friends have a night to remember. But I am sure if you follow this advice, they'll all be thanking you, and the Academy, at night's end.

The Mezzanine-Frungillo Caterers

2010-03-02T14:13:00.000-08:00

There is a fantastic special events venue in Newark, NJ. Yes, Newark!!!! Amazing to hear, isn't it? I was in stunned disbelief as well. As I walked thu The Mezzanine, located at 744 Broad St, I felt as if I had stepped back in time to a more serene and beautiful time. The soaring ceilings and majestic paintings, paired with the marble floors and brass accessories, add a sense of history and gravitas to any event held within its walls. The location is run by Fungillo Caterers and they use their decades of experience and high standards to bring quality and spectacle to your event. This locale is in an historic building within the most modern of urban reclaimations. Forget what you think you know of Newark, this area could be plunked down in any upscale area, of ant metropolis in the country and feel right at home. It is walking distance from the PATH train, a block from the Prudential Center and ample parking is available. For a special event, they offer a valet service that is the epitome of convenient. If you are looking for a "NYC feel" on a NJ budget, The Mezzanine might be for you. http://www.frungillo.com/frungillo_new/mez/mezzanine_photo_gallery.html

ISES NJ North Feb Networking Event

2010-02-02T09:51:00.000-08:00

Check the link for the ISES NJ North Feruary Networking Event. THere is also a Valentine's Day Movie Quiz for all of you romantics. Please join the event folks at The Mezzanine, 744 Broad St, Newark, NJ on 2/24/10. This event, hosted by the Fabulous folks at Frungillo's Caterers, will be a great time and great for business. Register at www.isesnjnorth.org.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr_x5b8iwss

Wedding Photography Tip

2010-01-29T12:43:00.000-08:00

Now, before I hear from all of my photographer friends about my "Not being a photographer, how can you presume to give me a tip", let me say that this has nothing to do with shutter speeds and F-Stops, but planning speed and less stops.

Quite often, on the day of the big occasion, we bring the entire bridal party, in full regalia, to a park, bridge, gazebo or some other "majestic" setting. This takes time, coordination and perhaps several pairs of shoes. I have come up with a package that has made both couples and photogs happy. We offer our brides a separate "sitting" with our photogs as part of the wedding package. Usually, family and wedding party shots have more to do with the people in the shot, than the locale. We recommend that we take these in a picturesque part of the church or even the reception location. That way we eliminate what could be several hours of downtime between the ceremony and the reception. There is little travel time and a production walkthru of these sites has already been conducted. Now the bride and groom have fantastic photos, with less stress. But now comes the reasoning for the second seating. The photog can now focus on the couple, on a more relaxed day, when everyone can look their best. I've seen couples redress in their wedding attire, but most have enough of those photos and now want them taken in a "special place", perhaps where he proposed, or where they take weekend walks, and it can even lead to further sales add-ons for our photogs.
So, next time you are pitching your brides, consider a new plan for their day, one with less stress for all involved. For that alone, you might become the most beloved vendor of the day.

The Gramercy Theatre

2010-01-24T21:42:00.000-08:00

The Gramercy Theatre, located at 127 East 23rd St, has been known for years as a top concert venue in New York and before that, as a movie theater. Now, now you can hold your special event there as well.

This venue, run by the capable folks at Live Nation, offers New York event planners a versatile main room, a downstairs lounge area and even private dressing rooms. The main room has 200 theater-style seats, a stage, two bars and an open area that can be used for more seating or as a dance floor.

Also included at this New York special event facility is an amazing sound and light system as well as a professional and helpful staff. The Gramery Theatre is perfect for anything from fashion shows to product launches, company meetings to after parties. This hidden NYC gem should be discovered by all. Outside vendors are allowed

Terminal 5

2010-01-24T21:41:00.001-08:00

Terminal 5, formerly Club Exit, may be one of the most versatile and useful event venues in New York City. At 40,000 square feet, with 40-foot ceilings, this majestic space affords you the ability to create dramatic eventscapes for your clients.

This venue was designed for the creative use of decor and design. A huge main room, with unobstructed sight lines and a well-appointed stage and sound system, allows New York event planners the freedom to unleash all of their ideas.

The ground floor load in makes all deliveries quick and easy and the staff, run by the Fred Seidler Group, couldn't be more accommodating. Perfect for large New York wedding receptions and private events, fashion shows or any large celebration, Terminal 5 is a must-see for any NYC events professional.

Gotham Hall

2010-01-24T21:39:00.000-08:00

Gotham Hall is one of the most impressive special event venues in New York City. A former bank, this venue’s turn-of-the-century architecture offers both majesty and sophistication.

The main room’s oval shape and seven story ceiling provides breathtaking grandeur while its staff, led by Allan Kurtz adds warmth and professionalism. Gotham Hall is perfect for a romantic New York wedding, charity fundraiser, black-tie gala or any event where your design calls for a top of the line setting.

Metropolitan Pavilion

2010-01-24T21:36:00.000-08:00

Metropolitan Pavilion is the perfect example of classic New York City event space. The Pavilion offers clean lines and minimalist vision.

Its three separate spaces provide the perfect "clean slate" that so many event designers crave. With beautiful floors and white walls, the attention is given to what you want it to be given to: the guest of honor, the product you are launching, the fashions on the runway, etc.

The in-house production staff is well trained and can help with any and all details. They even offer an in-house audio-visual company (Scharff Weisberg, a New York AV legend).

The Met Pavilion has hosted countless events and the next one should be yours—it's that good.

Prince George Ballroom

2010-01-24T21:34:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for an event space that not only makes your event special, but does something special with your event? If so, the Prince George Ballroom might be for you.

Located in a trendy neighborhood on East 27th Street, the "PGB" is operated by Common Ground.Org, an organization that endeavors to put an end to homelessness. The proceeds garnered from their event division go directly to support that special cause.

But don’t let the philanthropic nature of the management mislead you into thinking that this is not a first-rate New York City event space. This unique venue boasts 16-foot ceilings and herringbone oak floors throughout its 4,800 square feet. This well-appointed ballroom has carved columns and an ornate ceiling that make for an excellent cost cutting effect, as a room this unique needs very little in the way of decor.

A full kitchen is on-site and two additional spaces are also available: the Ladies Tea Room, a miniature version of the ballroom that accommodates up to 75 guests; and the adjoining Art Gallery, which can add an additional 3,000 square feet to your NYC event. That extra footage is ideal for cocktails and as a guest check-in area.

The PGB has been open for two years and has hosted corporate and private parties, fashion week extravaganzas and many a celebrity bash. Outside vendors are allowed to be brought in, but they do have recommended vendors as well.

ISES NJ North Gala Save the Date Video

2010-01-24T21:23:00.000-08:00

Check out this video Save the Date for this great event!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EHFYdIQMf8

The Most "Amazing Cakes" are at Mike's

2010-01-23T22:44:00.000-08:00

If you have yet to see a creation by Executive Pastry Chef, Mike McCarey of Mike's Amazing Cakes, in Seattle, Washington, you are missing something...well, AMAZING.
Check the link to his website and you will see cakes that seem to defy gravity and explanation. The aforementioned website lists some of his influences as, Norman Rockwell, Alphonse Mucha and James Christensen, but using cake as a venue. The art presented in these "edible sculptures" is both subtle and obvious. The details are always perfect and from everyone I've spoken to, his creations are DELICIOUS.

Apparently, this "Master Baker" has a perfect delivery record as well. The bakery will ship ANYWHERE, airport to airport, and they seem rather proud of their 100% delivery record.

So, the next time one of your clients requests something "AMAZING", let them eat cake.

http://www.mikesamazingcakes.com/default.asp?audvar=true&aud=Turn+Music+Off

For a Transformative Look....Just Go "Pink"

2010-01-23T22:22:00.000-08:00

Pink Inc, that is. Pink Inc is a NYC based stretch fabric company that combines form and function. With Pink Inc., stretch fabric is not limited to chair and table covers. The artists that design and build for "Pink" stretch their imaginations to provide you with decorative "DNA" strands, wave walls and circle surrounds. Much of their line would be considered architecture more than decor. Their designs are cutting edge and can be made to custom sizes.

Even if you are one of the people who don't think you've seen Pink Inc, you just may have. This Thanksgiving, they provided 2 immense, Trees of Life, for the Daughtry halftime show for the Dallas Cowboys. As we all know, everything has to be bigger in Texas. These "sculptures" appear at the 4:50 mark of the linked video.

So, if you are need of "Rockstar Chic" for your next event, just think Pink, Pink Inc. that is.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fB2wI_fDuE

Our LinkedIn Networking Group

2010-01-23T20:26:00.000-08:00

Please feel free to join our group and network with a few hundred of our industry's finest.

ISES NJ North Chapter Opens New Website

2010-01-23T20:12:00.000-08:00

The NJ North chapter of ISES, the International Special Events Society, has just relaunched its website. The link above will take you there and you will see just how much this chapter has improved. I am certain, Chapter of the Year Award consideration wll be in order. The monthly events have been nothing short of spectacular, featuring industry leaders and TV personalities.

Now, in the spirit of full disclosure, I must say that I am serving on that very Board of Directors. However, that does not diminish the Herculean efforts given by many to insure the success of the chapter. If you missed the events, or think you might want to attend in the future, check the website for photos and videos of the past events.