Orange County-based investment banking company Roth Capital Partners held its 23rd annual O.C. Conference from March 13 to 16 at the Ritz-Carlton in Dana Point, where the lineup included more than 400 presenting companies with a median market value of about $200 million. But as a counterpoint to any lingering, outdated Monopoly-style staid reputation of bankers, a pair of high-profile tented parties infused energy and glamour to the conference's events. C.E.O. Byron Roth oversaw the program, which had production by Elite Productions International.
The two evenings of parties, on March 14 and 15 on the tented Salt Creek Beach parking lot, had distinct themes for two completely different looks and experiences. The first was a rock 'n' roll-style event with performer Joan Jett, and the following night, a white party featured performer Pitbull.
On the first night of parties, the event with Jett had an industrial-chic look, with a palette of teal, purple, and black, accented with fuchsia flowers. A raw wood floor, starburst bar backdrops, and peacock feather accents added drama. A mezzanine structure was in the center of the tent, creating an energetic dynamic for the guests to check out the view of the show and take in the experience of the party from above. "This was a challenging endeavor, but we were very proud of the outcome, due to multiple difficulties in design concept that allowed a complete A.D.A.-approved structure, as well as dealing with existing elements in the parking lot," said Elite Productions International president Lili Shadab.
For the white party with Pitbull, it was all about "Miami glam," as Shadab described it. White patent leather furniture, luxe chandeliers, and lavish floral arrangements filled the space, and white banquettes surrounded the stage. The mezzanine, wrapped in white, created the feeling of a nightclub. Cigars were available in the cabana outside the tent, and white cotton candy was offered.
