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Ideas

January 3, 2013
LumiGram uses luminous fiber-optic fabric technology to create glowing linens, wall panels, chair covers, promotional items, and more.
LumiGram uses luminous fiber-optic fabric technology to create glowing linens, wall panels, chair covers, promotional items, and more.
Photo: Courtesy of LumiGram
For the ESPN ESPY Awards preparty in Los Angeles in July, DNA Events set up a golf-inspired display of doughnut holes on toothpick tees on an AstroTurf-covered table.
For the ESPN ESPY Awards preparty in Los Angeles in July, DNA Events set up a golf-inspired display of doughnut holes on toothpick tees on an AstroTurf-covered table.
Photo: Courtesy of DNA Events
For a fund-raiser in Boston, the Catered Affair set up a doughnut-on-a-stick bar, where guests could top their own treats with colored sugar, candy, and more.
For a fund-raiser in Boston, the Catered Affair set up a doughnut-on-a-stick bar, where guests could top their own treats with colored sugar, candy, and more.
Photo: Person + Killian Photography
At the Museum of Contemporary Art's most recent ArtEdge Gala in Chicago, Jewell Events Catering set up a Pegboard that held chocolate, cinnamon-sugar, glazed, and old-fashioned cake doughnuts.
At the Museum of Contemporary Art's most recent ArtEdge Gala in Chicago, Jewell Events Catering set up a Pegboard that held chocolate, cinnamon-sugar, glazed, and old-fashioned cake doughnuts.
Photo: Photo: Alain Milotti
Juicy Couture's Gold Coast boutique in Chicago threw an in-store shopping event for customers last year. Truffleberry Market served passed bites, including salted caramel mini doughnuts on hot pink zebra-printed trays.
Juicy Couture's Gold Coast boutique in Chicago threw an in-store shopping event for customers last year. Truffleberry Market served passed bites, including salted caramel mini doughnuts on hot pink zebra-printed trays.
Photo: Francis Son Photography
Abigail Kirsch in New York repurposed a plate display rack by turning it on its side to hold smoked cheddar-glazed mini doughnuts dusted with peanut brittle.
Abigail Kirsch in New York repurposed a plate display rack by turning it on its side to hold smoked cheddar-glazed mini doughnuts dusted with peanut brittle.
Photo: Andre Maier Photography
Evoke, the event design and planning company based in Washington, D.C., designed this doughnut wall out of Pegboard, with 1,200 wooden golf tees holding chocolate-glazed, cinnamon-sugar, and powdered doughnuts. A server with a step stool is on hand to pull doughnuts off the wall. Design Cuisine executed the concept.
Evoke, the event design and planning company based in Washington, D.C., designed this doughnut wall out of Pegboard, with 1,200 wooden golf tees holding chocolate-glazed, cinnamon-sugar, and powdered doughnuts. A server with a step stool is on hand to pull doughnuts off the wall. Design Cuisine executed the concept.
Photo: Kate Headly
SmartHunts
SmartHunts

SmartHunts are iPad-based activities offered by Best TeamBuilding. Teams perform challenges, solve clues, and answer trivia questions, which can all be customized for the group. Participants also capture video and photos throughout the activities that can be shown at the conclusion of the event and shared through social media. SmartHunts feature two-way messaging so teams are connected with the hunt coordinator, who can track players using GPS and download photos and scoring. Themes include Amazing Chase, Mission Possible, Da Vinci Code, and an Event Kick-Off SmartHunt for conferences. Each hunt takes about three hours.

Photo: Courtesy of Smart Hunts
TeamBonding
TeamBonding

TeamBonding offers five “Smartphone Scaventures,” in which players use the company’s mobile app to search for items, complete tasks, and snap photos. Teams earn points based on activities completed and the quality of photos. Hosts can create a mission list from a bank of more than 100 options—such as asking participants to play “human limbo”—or they can design their own activities. Teams can compete against one another from multiple locations, whether in different cities or different countries. Each hunt takes about three hours to complete.

Photo: Courtesy of Team Bonding
Go Game
Go Game

Go Game uses smartphones to guide players through a series of challenges. Teams of as many as 10 players are sent on a course to solve puzzles and complete tasks within a game zone, which could be a few city blocks or a convention center. Players complete missions by submitting digital photos and text answers through the phones. Examples include a National Mall game in Washington that asks players to locate specific buildings and answer questions about memorials. Go Game also provides costumed actors that interact with participants throughout the hunt. The game ends with a presentation of the photos and videos, which the host also receives on a USB drive.

Photo: Courtesy of The Go Game
Wise Guys Events
Wise Guys Events

Wise Guys Events offers “Clockwise,” a cell phone scavenger hunt played with QR codes. Teams of as many as 10 players race against the clock to discover and decode 12 QR codes hidden within the game zone, usually a few city blocks. The codes may be located on a bike parked on a city street or on matchbooks players receive after giving a password to a bartender. When players scan the QR code, they get a password worth points at the end of the game and also instructions on how to complete an optional challenge for bonus points. Each hunt takes about four hours.

Photo: Courtesy of Wise Guys Events
GooseChase
GooseChase

GooseChase is a D.I.Y. scavenger hunt platform. Hosts can choose from options in the “mission bank” or create one from scratch. Each mission has a set point value and can have images and links attached to it. Participants submit photos through the app as proof of completing each mission, which could include convincing a stranger to demonstrate a favorite yoga pose. Organizers can monitor the activity through the “Hunt HQ” on the GooseChase Web site and award points based on the submitted photos.

Photo: Courtesy of Goose Chase
SCANVenger
SCANVenger

SCANVenger hunts are played using QR codes that can be placed throughout a venue, in an exhibit hall, or among a few city blocks. Players scan the codes and answer questions to earn points. Questions can be customized, for example, to quiz players about content learned at the event. Participants can also view the leaderboard on their devices, adding to the competition. SCANVenger also offers an interactive game wall—an 8- by 10-foot display of 30 QR codes—for hosts that want to offer a game without a physical hunt.

Photo: Courtesy of SCANVenger
Wildly Different
Wildly Different

Wildly Different offers a hunt known as “Recess Anyone?” as well as custom hunts based on a client’s theme. Signs with riddles are placed throughout the hunt area. Teams or individuals use their smartphones to scan a QR code on the signs that leads them to a Web site with additional clues to answer the question. Hosts can determine how to set up the hunt: as a break between education sessions, a networking tool during a reception to encourage interaction, or as a way to get people moving around a trade show by placing clues in exhibitors’ booths.

Photo: Courtesy of Wildly Different
American Outback
American Outback

American Outback’s “Wild Goose Chase” scavenger hunt sends players on missions that vary from wacky—like kissing a lobster—to customized to match the event’s theme, location, or objectives. Teams access the missions using the company’s app, and the list can be completed in any order. The hunt can be played in a few hours or over several days during a conference. Players can view a leaderboard in the app to increase competition.

Photo: Courtesy of American Outback
Stray Boots
Stray Boots

Stray Boots offers trivia-based walking tours of popular meeting destinations around the country, including Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Miami, and Las Vegas. Players use their cell phones to complete challenges, solve riddles, and take photos, and they earn points along the way. Each activity includes interesting facts about the destination. Tours can be played via the Stray Boots app, text message, or on a mobile browser. For multiple teams, the game can be arranged so teams experience the same tour but take different routes.

Photo: Courtesy of Stray Boots
The “Cloud of Fog” was a 40-foot tentlike structure filled with fog. Groups of seven attendees stood inside and participated in a moderator-led discussion, but they could not see one another. As the session progressed, the participants would take small steps forward, until the end when they were all gathered in the middle and close enough to see one another. St-Pierre said by removing the ability for participants to see one another, the experience “completely disconnected the person from the persona. Once everybody was out, you would see those groups coming back again to share coffee and such,' he said.
The “Cloud of Fog” was a 40-foot tentlike structure filled with fog. Groups of seven attendees stood inside and participated in a moderator-led discussion, but they could not see one another. As the session progressed, the participants would take small steps forward, until the end when they were all gathered in the middle and close enough to see one another. St-Pierre said by removing the ability for participants to see one another, the experience “completely disconnected the person from the persona. Once everybody was out, you would see those groups coming back again to share coffee and such," he said.
Photo: Sebastien Roy
C:Lab, the creative laboratory of Cirque du Soleil, used real tree branches to create the Nest, a hollow structure measuring 30 feet across and sitting 10 feet in the air. Participants were invited to climb a ladder into the nest where a moderator led them in a discussion. To leave the nest, attendees slid down a slide.
C:Lab, the creative laboratory of Cirque du Soleil, used real tree branches to create the Nest, a hollow structure measuring 30 feet across and sitting 10 feet in the air. Participants were invited to climb a ladder into the nest where a moderator led them in a discussion. To leave the nest, attendees slid down a slide.
A moderator led guests in a seven-minute discussion of business topics while they sat in chairs suspended inside a net 18 feet in the air. “When you are physically at risk of something, your perception of who you are, the environment, the world, will change. So that’s what we wanted to accomplish,” St-Pierre said.
A moderator led guests in a seven-minute discussion of business topics while they sat in chairs suspended inside a net 18 feet in the air. “When you are physically at risk of something, your perception of who you are, the environment, the world, will change. So that’s what we wanted to accomplish,” St-Pierre said.
Photo: Felix Renaud
A virtual reality experience from Ubisoft enabled participants six guests at a time to virtually walk around Paris’s Notre Dame cathedral together.
A virtual reality experience from Ubisoft enabled participants six guests at a time to virtually walk around Paris’s Notre Dame cathedral together.
Photo: Jimmy Hamelin
During the “In the Mouth” food events, participants received information and instructions throughout the meal via headphones.
During the “In the Mouth” food events, participants received information and instructions throughout the meal via headphones.
Photo: Sarah-Jade Champagne
Using E-180’s matchmaking platform, more than 1,345 “brain dates” took place during the three-day conference, double the amount from 2014.
Using E-180’s matchmaking platform, more than 1,345 “brain dates” took place during the three-day conference, double the amount from 2014.
Photo: Sarah-Jade Champagne
Located alongside Montreal’s Lachine Canal, C2’s outdoor plaza included a Ferris wheel, a tent, food services, and a variety of seating areas. Organizers encouraged attendees to meet for “brain dates” in one of the Ferris wheel pods.
Located alongside Montreal’s Lachine Canal, C2’s outdoor plaza included a Ferris wheel, a tent, food services, and a variety of seating areas. Organizers encouraged attendees to meet for “brain dates” in one of the Ferris wheel pods.
Photo: Allen McEachern
The outdoor plaza included a new venue, the Big Top BDC. Hosted by the founders of Montreal’s 7 Fingers circus, the venue had space for about 200 people.
The outdoor plaza included a new venue, the Big Top BDC. Hosted by the founders of Montreal’s 7 Fingers circus, the venue had space for about 200 people.
Photo: Sarah-Jade Champagne
Inside the Big Top BDC, participants listened to a variety of speakers on topics such as investment, social business, innovation, renewable energies, and technology.
Inside the Big Top BDC, participants listened to a variety of speakers on topics such as investment, social business, innovation, renewable energies, and technology.
Photo: Jimmy Hamelin
The Forum Solotech was the conference's main venue, where speakers such as Alec Baldwin, Chelsea Clinton, and Andre Agassi addressed the crowd.
The Forum Solotech was the conference's main venue, where speakers such as Alec Baldwin, Chelsea Clinton, and Andre Agassi addressed the crowd.
Photo: Jimmy Hamelin
A separate venue called the Garage hosted 10 master classes led by professionals from organizations such as M.I.T. Media Lab and BMW. ·
A separate venue called the Garage hosted 10 master classes led by professionals from organizations such as M.I.T. Media Lab and BMW.   ·
Inside Arsenal, organizers used scaffolding to expand the amount of spaces available for people to gather.
Inside Arsenal, organizers used scaffolding to expand the amount of spaces available for people to gather.
Bistro Lafontaine was one of the places where conference participants could dine on food from chef Jérôme Ferrer.
Bistro Lafontaine was one of the places where conference participants could dine on food from chef Jérôme Ferrer.
Photo: Felix Renaud
Hendrick's Air
Hendrick's Air

A 130-foot flying cucumber, part of the Hendrick's Air campaign for Hendrick's Gin, traveled across 13 cities at 35 miles per  hour. The tour ended on July 29 with a viewing party held at Galleria Marchetti in Chicago.

Photo: Courtesy of Page One Public Relations
MPI World Education Congress
MPI World Education Congress

At the MPI World Education Congress, which took place at the Moscone Center in San Francisco from August 1 to 4, Visit Anaheim partnered with 3-D pavement artist Joe Hill to create interactive illustrations. Created with chalk and paint, the installations represented aspects of Anaheim, including Orange County beaches, city landmarks, and theme parks. Guests were encouraged to pose "inside" the artwork and share photos on social media.

Photo: Courtesy of Visit Anaheim
Lollapalooza
Lollapalooza

During the rock music festival, which took place in Chicago's Grant Park from July 31 to August 2, many festival perks were found at sponsor activations on festival grounds. Bud Light brought its traveling House of Whatever activation to the event, and in a V.I.P. area, guests could have their photos snapped inside the "Bud Light Lolla-Scope." The machine took rotating, 360-degree photos of guests, who then posted the images to their social media accounts. The images were automatically populated with the phrase: "And this happened at Lolla 2015," along with the #UpForWhatever hashtag.

Photo: Barry Brecheisen for Bizbash
Lollapalooza
Lollapalooza

At a bar at the Samsung Galaxy Owner's Lounge, guests could order frozen treats using the GS6 Edge device. The flavors were designed to represent different musical tastes. The "R&B" treat had a raspberry-rose flavor, for example, while "Rock" was honeydew-ginger.

Photo: Barry Brecheisen for Bizbash
Lincoln Park Zoo Ball
Lincoln Park Zoo Ball

Choosing a "Christmas in July" theme, the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago hosted "Zoo Ball: Arctic Blast" on July 10. Nadeau's Ice Sculptures created an eight-foot-tall polar bear for the occasion.

Photo: Violet Dominek
Ford Motor Company's Cultural Road Trip
Ford Motor Company's Cultural Road Trip

For the fifth and final installment of the Icon 50 program, which celebrated the Mustang’s 50th anniversary, Ford Motor Company asked designer Jonathan Adler to create a cultural road trip in July, complete with a detailed driving route. The design-centric course featured destinations spanning both coasts. For a New York event, attendees drove their own Mustangs for the weekend, along with an itinerary of Shelter Island hot spots, Adler's recommended design destinations, and his must-have road trip accessories, which he curated in honor of the car’s anniversary.

Photo: Courtesy of Ford Motor Company
GoGo Squeez Activation Tour
GoGo Squeez Activation Tour

GoGo Squeez partnered with MKG for the launch of the "Goodness Machine," a custom, interactive vending machine resembling the health-focused on-the-go snack brand's applesauce packets. The vending machine debuted in New York's Madison Square Park on July 23. Kids could push a button that activated a launching mechanism that shot out applesauce packets attached to parachutes with the brand's label from the top of the machine.

Photo: Dorothy Hong
Watermill Center Summer Benefit & Auction
Watermill Center Summer Benefit & Auction

The Watermill Center's summer benefit in East End took place on July 25, showcasing 24 art installations. Once past the main entrance steps and right before the pathway to the Africa House sat two installations as part of Mette Sterre's "Sweet Beans Constrictors" artwork. Atop the landing, the Dutch artist created a pair of headpieces from coiled and tied tubing, representing dramatic forms of negative space in which performances sat and gazed at guests. Piles of fruit, in keeping with the theme, were featured as a complement.

Photo: Keith Sirchio for BizBash
Watermill Center Summer Benefit & Auction
Watermill Center Summer Benefit & Auction

Puerto Rican artist Radames (Juni) Figueroa's "Bed Paintings" installation featured a row of young men asleep in beds along the path of the forest, the artist's figure draped over their bodies (a tropical canvas as bed sheet). Piles of tropical fruit, meanwhile, studded the forest floor.

Photo: Keith Sirchio for BizBash
Watermill Center Summer Benefit & Auction
Watermill Center Summer Benefit & Auction

To allow guests to roam the grounds while indulging in the food prepared by Great Performances, all the self-serve dishes were designed to be hand-held and didn't even necessarily require plates. "We kept it fun and playful, as noted by the fried chicken served in savory waffle cones," said Shaun Roberts, event director at Great Performances. "It was approachable food done in a different way."

Photo: Keith Sirchio for BizBash
Black Light Visuals offers a psychedelic twist on temporary tattoos by tie-dyeing guests' arms and hands. The funky arm art appeared at this year's Lollapalooza festival in Chicago, with concertgoers dipping their limbs into vats of swirling acrylic paint. The trippy tattoos are best showcased in the dark and can be washed off with soap and water. The Clarkston, Michigan-based design company can also customize color combinations for events.
Black Light Visuals offers a psychedelic twist on temporary tattoos by tie-dyeing guests' arms and hands. The funky arm art appeared at this year's Lollapalooza festival in Chicago, with concertgoers dipping their limbs into vats of swirling acrylic paint. The trippy tattoos are best showcased in the dark and can be washed off with soap and water. The Clarkston, Michigan-based design company can also customize color combinations for events.
Photo: Courtesy of Black Light Visuals
In March 2014, attendees of the Divergent premiere in Los Angeles went home with airbrushed tattoos, a visual inspired by the movie, in which tattoos figure prominently.
In March 2014, attendees of the Divergent premiere in Los Angeles went home with airbrushed tattoos, a visual inspired by the movie, in which tattoos figure prominently.
Photo: Sean Twomey/2me Studios
Guests at this year's Mercedes-Benz Evolution Tour, which includes stops in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Austin, sported metallic tattoos with the car brand's logo and more.
Guests at this year's Mercedes-Benz Evolution Tour, which includes stops in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Austin, sported metallic tattoos with the car brand's logo and more.
Photo: David X Prutting/BFA.com
During Thrillist's 'Best Day of Your Life' event in June 2014, attendees scored airbrushed tattoos with various quirky symbols representing the brand and the festivities.
During Thrillist's "Best Day of Your Life" event in June 2014, attendees scored airbrushed tattoos with various quirky symbols representing the brand and the festivities.
Photo: Dobrin Marchev
At an Old Navy Fashion Week party in September 2014, actress Katie Holmes applied two shiny flash tattoos on the back of her neck and arm.
At an Old Navy Fashion Week party in September 2014, actress Katie Holmes applied two shiny flash tattoos on the back of her neck and arm.
Photo: Michael Simon/Startraks
At the Whitney Museum of American Art's gala and studio party in October 2013, sponsor Louis Vuitton offered guests wearable art—signature tattoos from Glitter Tattoo New York.
At the Whitney Museum of American Art's gala and studio party in October 2013, sponsor Louis Vuitton offered guests wearable art—signature tattoos from Glitter Tattoo New York.
Photo: Nadia Chaudhury/BizBash
At a party celebrating Travel & Leisure's Social Media in Travel & Tourism Awards (known as the Smittys) in June 2013, guests could choose from an assortment of temporary hand-drawn-inspired tattoos.
At a party celebrating Travel & Leisure's Social Media in Travel & Tourism Awards (known as the Smittys) in June 2013, guests could choose from an assortment of temporary hand-drawn-inspired tattoos.
Photo: Diane Bondareff for Travel & Leisure
Henna artists offered tattoos to guests at the Hope House fund-raiser's after-party in June 2010 at the Palais Royale in Toronto.
Henna artists offered tattoos to guests at the Hope House fund-raiser's after-party in June 2010 at the Palais Royale in Toronto.
Photo: Nikki Leigh McKean for BizBash
Red Bull branded attendees with a glittery temporary tattoo when they entered the company's pop-up venue and concert series at South by Southwest in Austin in March 2009. Guests could re-enter on any night of the four-night party simply by flashing their tatted skin.
Red Bull branded attendees with a glittery temporary tattoo when they entered the company's pop-up venue and concert series at South by Southwest in Austin in March 2009. Guests could re-enter on any night of the four-night party simply by flashing their tatted skin.
Photo: Benjamin Sklar for BizBash
Printed with vegetable-based inks, Tattly's collection includes 313 tattoo options, such as vintage cameras, friendship bracelets, and black-and-white typography. The Brooklyn-based company has worked with brands such as DreamWorks, NPR, and Twitter on custom projects, which are available as individual tattoos or as sets of six. The individual tattoo packages start around $500 each, while the sets start from $5,000.
Printed with vegetable-based inks, Tattly's collection includes 313 tattoo options, such as vintage cameras, friendship bracelets, and black-and-white typography. The Brooklyn-based company has worked with brands such as DreamWorks, NPR, and Twitter on custom projects, which are available as individual tattoos or as sets of six. The individual tattoo packages start around $500 each, while the sets start from $5,000.
Photo: Courtesy of Tattly
Best Print or Digital Invitation Design
Best Print or Digital Invitation Design

'Alice in Wonderland'-Theme Summer Party
Submitted by RedBliss Design
For an annual summer party at a private residence in New Hampshire, guests received an oversize key, which was made of a material called Chroma and featured laser-cut characters from Alice in Wonderland. The invitation was mailed in a grass-lined box to mimic the woodland scenes in the movie and offered attendees a hint as to the theme of the party.

Photo: Courtesy of RedBliss Design
Showtime hosted the second-season premiere of its drama series Homeland aboard the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York in September. Glowing lanterns made the central outdoor bar easy to spot from afar.
Showtime hosted the second-season premiere of its drama series Homeland aboard the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York in September. Glowing lanterns made the central outdoor bar easy to spot from afar.
Photo: Scott Gries/Showtime
BrownHot Events partnered with Mille Fiori Floral Design to create an 8- by 20-foot paper flower backdrop for the V.I.P. tent bar at the third annual Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic in Los Angeles in October.
BrownHot Events partnered with Mille Fiori Floral Design to create an 8- by 20-foot paper flower backdrop for the V.I.P. tent bar at the third annual Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic in Los Angeles in October.
Photo: Claire Barrett Photography
Food festival Chicago Gourmet took over Chicago's Millennium Park in September. Event Creative was tasked with building out the tents that housed tasting bars for brands, including Constellations Brands' 'Passport to Wine' tent, where the designers accented the white bar with faux boxwood hedges.
Food festival Chicago Gourmet took over Chicago's Millennium Park in September. Event Creative was tasked with building out the tents that housed tasting bars for brands, including Constellations Brands' "Passport to Wine" tent, where the designers accented the white bar with faux boxwood hedges.
Photo: Josh Sears for Event Creative
For the grand opening of Mariano's newest Chicago location in October, Kehoe Designs arranged for a disco-themed soiree inside the supermarket. To bring a Studio 54 vibe to the space, the designers used shimmering bars and disco balls for the decor.
For the grand opening of Mariano's newest Chicago location in October, Kehoe Designs arranged for a disco-themed soiree inside the supermarket. To bring a Studio 54 vibe to the space, the designers used shimmering bars and disco balls for the decor.
Photo: Liliane Calfee
In July at Travel & Leisure’s annual World’s Best Awards in New York, sponsor Patrón displayed a sleek wall that housed five tanks of Patrón-based cocktails from which guests could pour their own drinks.
In July at Travel & Leisure’s annual World’s Best Awards in New York, sponsor Patrón displayed a sleek wall that housed five tanks of Patrón-based cocktails from which guests could pour their own drinks.
Photo: Diane Bondareef/Travel + Leisure
Chicago-based Redmoon Theater’s annual benefit in March had a performer topping off guests’ glasses with the company’s “Wine Bike,” which features a spinning chandelier of wine glasses and a series of gears that pour bottles of wine.
Chicago-based Redmoon Theater’s annual benefit in March had a performer topping off guests’ glasses with the company’s “Wine Bike,” which features a spinning chandelier of wine glasses and a series of gears that pour bottles of wine.
Photo: Christina Noël Photography
Beauty brand Fresh’s 21st anniversary party in New York included an interactive mixology bar by Shiraz Events with a wall of drink tanks filled with purées and infused juices. Guests filled their cups from the dispensers, then brought them to bartenders who added Belvedere vodka.
Beauty brand Fresh’s 21st anniversary party in New York included an interactive mixology bar by Shiraz Events with a wall of drink tanks filled with purées and infused juices. Guests filled their cups from the dispensers, then brought them to bartenders who added Belvedere vodka.
Photo: Jim Shi
The Los Angeles launch party for Zing vodka in July had a unique take on a shot bar: Gloved hands emerged from a rose-covered wall to offer guests glasses of the new spirit.
The Los Angeles launch party for Zing vodka in July had a unique take on a shot bar: Gloved hands emerged from a rose-covered wall to offer guests glasses of the new spirit.
Photo: Sean Twomey/2me Studios
At Hendrick’s Gin’s “Voyages Into the Unusual” event in Chicago, a bar dubbed the Monster Box was manned by a server wearing a fuzzy “monster paw” who stood behind a curtain. When guests approached, the beastly hand poked through holding a drink—the particular concoction that each guest received was a surprise.
At Hendrick’s Gin’s “Voyages Into the Unusual” event in Chicago, a bar dubbed the Monster Box was manned by a server wearing a fuzzy “monster paw” who stood behind a curtain. When guests approached, the beastly hand poked through holding a drink—the particular concoction that each guest received was a surprise.
Photo: Jill Tiongco Photography
At the Kohl's Launch of Juicy Couture, an elaborate press wall of roses was inset with a sparkling logo. The event took place at the John Lautner-designed Sheats-Goldstein residence in Los Angeles in September.
At the Kohl's Launch of Juicy Couture, an elaborate press wall of roses was inset with a sparkling logo. The event took place at the John Lautner-designed Sheats-Goldstein residence in Los Angeles in September.
Photo: Angela Weiss/Getty Images for Kohl's
In January, Ross Mathews and the Happy Egg Company feted California's Proposition 2 (mandating that eggs sold in the state must come from hens with larger cages) with an event that included cutouts of chickens placed on the yellow arrivals carpet for 3-D effect. The event was at West Hollywood’s Palihouse.
In January, Ross Mathews and the Happy Egg Company feted California's Proposition 2 (mandating that eggs sold in the state must come from hens with larger cages) with an event that included cutouts of chickens placed on the yellow arrivals carpet for 3-D effect. The event was at West Hollywood’s Palihouse.
Photo: Rich Polk/Getty Images for the Happy Egg Company
Pandora hosted its first 'Hearts of Today” honoree luncheon at the Montage Beverly Hills in November, where a decorative press wall had logos framed in purple roses set against lush hedging.
Pandora hosted its first "Hearts of Today” honoree luncheon at the Montage Beverly Hills in November, where a decorative press wall had logos framed in purple roses set against lush hedging.
Photo: Stefanie Keenan
In 2013, Chandon hosted its American Summer Soiree in New York with a step-and-repeat backdrop that included a dense collection of inflatable pool toys, including those in shapes of blue whales, pink flamingos, and flowers, alongside logo beach bags, balls, bottles, and chairs.
In 2013, Chandon hosted its American Summer Soiree in New York with a step-and-repeat backdrop that included a dense collection of inflatable pool toys, including those in shapes of blue whales, pink flamingos, and flowers, alongside logo beach bags, balls, bottles, and chairs.
Photo: Will Ragozzino/BFAnyc.com
The Museum of Modern Art’s annual Party in the Garden in New York in 2013 had a modern, tropical motif. Accordingly, the arrivals backdrop included plenty of greenery, which was accented with logos from MoMA and sponsor Cartier.
The Museum of Modern Art’s annual Party in the Garden in New York in 2013 had a modern, tropical motif. Accordingly, the arrivals backdrop included plenty of greenery, which was accented with logos from MoMA and sponsor Cartier.
Photo: Nadia Chaudhury/BizBash
Vogue Eyewear's Los Angeles launch party for its campaign with Eva Mendes in 2013 had a playful feel throughout. A step-and-repeat wall made up of logo balloons arranged in a rainbow grid set the sunny, colorful tone for the alfresco affair.
Vogue Eyewear's Los Angeles launch party for its campaign with Eva Mendes in 2013 had a playful feel throughout. A step-and-repeat wall made up of logo balloons arranged in a rainbow grid set the sunny, colorful tone for the alfresco affair.
Photo: Alesandra Dubin/BizBash
For the New York premiere of Columbia Picture's Bad Teacher in 2011, a 130-foot step-and-repeat area got 3-D touches in the form of classroom-style elements, including school chairs, desks, and red apples.
For the New York premiere of Columbia Picture's Bad Teacher in 2011, a 130-foot step-and-repeat area got 3-D touches in the form of classroom-style elements, including school chairs, desks, and red apples.
Photo: Line 8 Photography. All rights reserved.
The Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic is known for its whimsical decor done in the brand's signature yellow-orange color. In 2013, the Los Angeles event included a vintage flower-stand-style step-and-repeat. In addition to flowers, bottles were potted like plants and logo plaques on wooden sticks were planted in moss.
The Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic is known for its whimsical decor done in the brand's signature yellow-orange color. In 2013, the Los Angeles event included a vintage flower-stand-style step-and-repeat. In addition to flowers, bottles were potted like plants and logo plaques on wooden sticks were planted in moss.
Photo: Claire Barrett Photography
At Christie's “Green Auction: Bid to Save the Earth” in New York in 2012, the arrivals area was dominated by a wall of live plants. Many of the flowers used—including phalaenopsis, clovers, cabbage, ferns, and ivy—were replanted following the event.
At Christie's “Green Auction: Bid to Save the Earth” in New York in 2012, the arrivals area was dominated by a wall of live plants. Many of the flowers used—including phalaenopsis, clovers, cabbage, ferns, and ivy—were replanted following the event.
Photo: Carolyn Curtis/BizBash
A 2013 event partnership between jewelry and accessories brand Stella & Dot and liquor company Midori resulted in a 3-D press wall enlivened by emerald green colored objects—accessories from the line like sunglasses and necklaces, alongside the brightly colored bottles.
A 2013 event partnership between jewelry and accessories brand Stella & Dot and liquor company Midori resulted in a 3-D press wall enlivened by emerald green colored objects—accessories from the line like sunglasses and necklaces, alongside the brightly colored bottles.
Photo: Courtesy of Midori
One way to get an event's message out is to write it in a way that's too big to miss. The Angelina Jolie movie Salt premiered in Los Angeles in 2010 with 12-foot-tall letters that spelled out the film's name in eye-catching graphic form.
One way to get an event's message out is to write it in a way that's too big to miss. The Angelina Jolie movie Salt premiered in Los Angeles in 2010 with 12-foot-tall letters that spelled out the film's name in eye-catching graphic form.
Photo: Line 8 Photography. All rights reserved.
Caterer Toben Food by Design presented guests with authentic British offerings including handheld fish and chips and mini beef Wellingtons.
Caterer Toben Food by Design presented guests with authentic British offerings including handheld fish and chips and mini beef Wellingtons.
Photo: George Pimentel Photography
A Spice Girls tribute band invited guests to sing along to classic songs like 'Wannabe.'
A Spice Girls tribute band invited guests to sing along to classic songs like "Wannabe."
Photo: George Pimentel Photography
Matthew Donegan
Matthew Donegan

Max Ultimate Food
A graduate of Boston University with a degree in hotel and restaurant management, Matthew Donegan considers living and working in Paris as his biggest career break. Upon returning to the United States, he owned and operated two restaurants for 10 years and worked at the Catered Affair before joining Max Ultimate Food in Boston. There, his catering roster includes prestigious venues and fund-raising events for nonprofit organizations, such as the Boston Ballet gala, the DeCordova Museum gala, and the Perkins School for the Blind gala.

Chocolate caramel tortes with bubble truffles, mini cappuccino shakes, and a wand to blow edible bubbles
"Catering is a true collaboration … and it takes a village. And you have to be willing to take a risk. Sometimes my staff thinks I’m crazy for trying certain complicated menus for large events. My comment is always ‘you can’t stump greatness.'"

Photos: Courtesy of Max Ultimate Food
Robb Garceau
Robb Garceau

Creative Edge Parties
Raised in New York’s Hudson Valley in a family of avid gardeners, Robb Garceau has always appreciated raw foods and fine ingredients. After college, he worked under chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten at New York restaurants including Jean-Georges. At Creative Edge in New York, he services some 1,200 events a year for clients such as H&M, Twitter, and Keep a Child Alive—and still makes frequent trips to the local farmers’ markets.

“Shake ‘n’ Snack” (crispy, dehydrated seasonal vegetables and seasoning dusts); guests grab bags from the tray, then season the chips themselves
"The inspiration behind this dish really came from two places. The first was bringing back Shake ‘n Bake in a fun, current way. The second really stemmed from taking everyday ingredients and transforming them with a flavor twist."

Photo: Arnold Brower (Shake 'n' Snack), Carla Ruben (Garceau)
Heather Weaver
Heather Weaver

Occasions Caterers
Heather Weaver decided that she wanted to be a chef at a young age, and after culinary school, she began to work in some of Washington, D.C.’s most distinguished restaurants. Her respect for ingredients and tradition combined with creative curiosity led her to her current role as the lead chef of research and development at Occasions Caterers in the Nation’s Capital. With the help of co-founder Eric Michael and creative director Amy Lewerenz, Weaver develops, tests, and explores new dishes, ingredients, and presentations in an effort to stand out from fellow caterers.

Scallop hors d’oeuvres with shells magnetically affixed to metal pins attached to driftwood trays
"When interpreting or reinterpreting dishes, you should always begin with understanding its origin and the culture that created it. The tray design was truly about form and function. … Eric conceived the idea of producing something that related to the ingredients, was striking, and functionally effective."

Photos: Courtesy of Occasions Caterers
Hugo Veltman
Hugo Veltman

SBE Events and Catering
Classically trained in Paris and with more than two decades of experience, Hugo Veltman brings expert execution and creativity to SBE Events and Catering. Prior to joining the Los Angeles-based company, Veltman worked at Patina Restaurant Group and Charlie Trotter in Chicago. Now in Hollywood, Veltman’s clients and events include major motion picture studios and premieres, like A Million Ways to Die in the West, as well as award celebrations, such as 2014’s Golden Globes after-party for the Weinstein Company.

Custom chili station with various fixings, such as cheddar cheese, green onions, jalapeños, sour cream, and Fritos, served in mini faux cast-iron skillets
"Most chefs try to show off what they can do; I aim to understand the client’s needs and fulfill them to perfection. I do this in a fresh, new, and innovative way, whether it means creating a custom menu or taking a classic and making it my own. It’s the details and execution that make my team different."

Photos: Stephanie Collins Photography (chili station), Courtesy of SBE Events and Catering (Veltman)
Stella Ballarini
Stella Ballarini

Scoozi Events NYC
A classically trained ballerina, Stella Ballarini originally attended culinary school in Italy as a hobby. She eventually turned her pastime into a business, founding New York's Scoozi Events in 1996, and became known for her playful food and creative presentation.

Edible menus printed with edible ink on edible rice paper
"The edible menus came from an idea to make everything edible on a table setting. We had hosted dinner parties in the past where 95 percent of the table was actually edible for guests to eat."

Photos: Courtesy of Scoozi Events NYC
Vaidotas Karsokas and Brittany Ferrin
Vaidotas Karsokas and Brittany Ferrin

Truffleberry Market
The married catering duo of Vaidotas Karsokas and Brittany Ferrin, who met as prep cooks at a Chicago restaurant, started their business out of their parents’ kitchens with zero experience. Now, with a team of 10, they service high-end clients like Louis Vuitton and Chanel.

Chicken lettuce wraps attached to a wall of lemons using fabricated hatpins
"We always try to think outside the platter in order to give guests something extra to buzz about aside from the flavors themselves, so we knew something vertical and interactive would be the way to bring some drama into this fabulous food setting."

Photos: Brittany Bekas Photography (lemon wall), Nakai Photography (Ferrin & Karsokas)
Shannon Shaffer
Shannon Shaffer

Design Cuisine
Formerly the executive chef for the Kennedy Center and its Roof Terrace, Shannon Shaffer has managed and developed catering for a slew of major Washington, D.C.-area events. While at Design Cuisine in 2013, he catered the inaugural luncheon at the Capitol for President Obama; he’s also handled catering for the National Trust on the Mall luncheon and the Wolf Trap gala. Innovative menu items have ranged from a D.I.Y. B.L.T. station to a 15-step beet salad.

Smoked mozzarella pearls with tomato and basil
"The inspiration behind the dish was to show the guests how we make mozzarella pearls. The use of molecular gastronomy has been more prevalent in the past few years, and we try to incorporate it where possible, but still serve more traditional food that people are familiar with."

Photos: Tony Brown/imijphoto.com for BizBash (smoked mozzarella pearls), Courtesy of Design Cuisine (Shaffer)
Jenny Glasgow
Jenny Glasgow

Olivier Cheng Catering & Events
Jenny Glasgow, who worked as a senior advertising executive for more than a decade before becoming a chef, is the creative culinary force at New York’s Olivier Cheng Catering & Events, where she specializes in restaurant-caliber cuisine. Glasgow trained at the French Culinary Institute in New York and served as the director of culinary development at California-based Matthew Kenney Group before joining Olivier Cheng. With a diverse client base, including leading fashion houses, Glasgow and her team have created menus for events as far away as Doha, Qatar.

Ricotta späetzle with duck confit, served with a golden Gruyère broth, which is poured into the bowl, turning the liquid bright pink when it hits the beet gelée hidden underneath
"We had a client who was asking for a presentation with ‘wow’ factor. We didn’t want something that was just a gimmick. It had to be something that tasted good—that we would want to eat."

Photos: Pearcey Proper
Leslie Tseng
Leslie Tseng

Marcey Brownstein Catering & Events
Leslie Tseng, who joined New York-based Marcey Brownstein Catering 11 years ago, continues to shape the company’s cuisine alongside executive chef Will Burgess, taking inspiration from gongbi—the meticulous technique of traditional Chinese painting—which results in dishes that are highly detailed.

Mini garden boards with herb butter, pumpernickel “dirt,” and mini veggies
"We wanted to come up with a beautiful way to highlight an early summer bounty of mini vegetables in a fun and innovative way. We wanted it to be whimsical, playful, and conversation-starting, but not too goofy or weird. In addition, these were on the dining tables and acted as a decor element since floral was minimal."

Photos: Gulshan Kirat
Roshan Wanasingha
Roshan Wanasingha

Encore Catering
Toronto-based chef Roshan Wanasingha attended culinary school in Sri Lanka, then made his way through the kitchens of luxury hotels such as the five-star Hilton Colombo and the seven-star Burj Al Arab in Dubai. At Encore Catering, Wanasingha has spent the past year catering to clients such as Nike and BMW; he also serviced a million-dollar wedding.

Green tea, Chivas Regal whiskey, and white chocolate gelato served in a smoking teapot
"A couple of years ago, I went to a Chinese dim sum restaurant and they served a green tea. I was looking at it and said to myself it would be a great idea to do a green tea sorbet on a smoking teapot. It’s a very unique concept because it looks like it’s hot, but its cold. It’s almost like you’re serving sorbet on smoking water."

Photos: Courtesy of Encore Catering (teapot), Peter Visima (Wanasingha)
Julian Alonzo
Julian Alonzo

Neuman’s Kitchen
Julian Alonzo’s first foray into the food world was working under chef David Bouley at three-star New York restaurant Montrachet at the age of 16. He then earned his degree from the French Culinary Institute and took jobs in Parisian restaurants such as Maxim’s and Guy Savoy. Now executive chef at the New York-based catering firm Neuman’s Kitchen, Alonzo has prepared innovative menus for events such as the Lowline Anti-Gala and the International Interior Design Association’s Color Invasion benefit. He also has an artful, fresh way of presenting seafood dishes.

Hawaiian kampachi crudo, nasturtium, shiso vinaigrette, and trout roe
"This was a play on a checkerboard game I was playing with my son one afternoon. He was totally beating me because I was thinking about how it would look so pretty if I did this design with a tartare dish I was working on."

Photos: Evan Sung (kampachi), Tom LeGoff (Alonzo)
Myriam Cordova
Myriam Cordova

Shiraz Events
Born in Venezuela, Myriam Cordova studied at Casa de Campo University in Madrid before working alongside top chefs, including Douglas Rodriguez, Alex Garcia, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and Zarela Sanchez. Cordova, who honed her skills as the executive chef at the Betsy Ross Hotel prior to heading up the culinary and catering division of Shiraz Events in Miami, also teaches at the New York Food and Hotel Management School.

A deconstructed piña colada made of coconut custard flan and baked into a dried coconut with homemade pineapple sorbet and a dark rum glaze
"We are always looking for new ways to serve classic flavors."

Photos: Courtesy of Shiraz Events
Bob Spiegal
Bob Spiegal

Pinch Food Design
Known for his innovative approach to plating, Bob Spiegal is in constant demand to cater prestigious New York events, such as the Whitney Museum’s fall gala, New York Philharmonic’s opening in the park, and the Cooper Union gala. He embraces the idea of one-bite food served without traditional silverware and plates, making Pinch a go-to caterer for unconventional presentations.

Formaggi, prosciutto, salumi foccacia, and Italian pickles served on a clipboard
"We wanted guests to have the same experience [of a traditional trattoria], but at an event. The clipboard was logical because it held the butcher’s paper, which had the menu printed on it."

Photos: Courtesy of Pinch Food Design
Christopher Matthews
Christopher Matthews

Eatertainment
With former experience as a restaurant owner and a caterer for airlines and cruise ships, Christopher Matthews has been the executive chef at the Toronto catering company Eatertainment for five years. When he cooks, Matthews focuses on achieving balance between flavors, textures, and colors; specialties include colorblocked dishes that incorporate seasonal ingredients. Recognized for his striking presentation styles that don’t overwhelm a small plate, the chef is known to sketch his dishes before he prepares them.

Pasta with gold leaf, porcini powder, shaved truffle, and squid ink
"The dish was a balance of simplicity and elegance using two unique flavors that represented the land and the ocean. This is an example of my philosophy of keeping a dish simple, using just a few select ingredients, and then highlighting and balancing each one within the dish."

Photos: Bruce Gibson
Elaina Vazquez
Elaina Vazquez

Boutique Bites
After getting her degree from New York’s Culinary Institute of America, Elaina Vazquez worked at luxury restaurants such as Avenues at the Peninsula hotel in Chicago and Joël Robuchon at the Mansion in Las Vegas. In 2008, at age 26, she opened her own catering firm in Chicago, which now serves a client base that includes fashion designers and film directors. Vazquez is known for what she refers to as “stylish minis”—everything from quarter-size cheeseburgers to tiny tacos.

Filet mignon sandwich
"The menu consisted of typical food you would take to a picnic—but presented in a fun, fashionable, and more interesting way. Filet mignon sandwiches were wrapped with parchment and tied with red-and-white twine; homemade potato chips were served in mini fry baskets."

Photos: Lucy Hewett
Andrew Cavitolo
Andrew Cavitolo

Riviera Caterers
Coming from a long line of chefs, Andrew Cavitolo learned his culinary secrets early, starting at the age of 10 in his father’s kitchen catering weddings. After receiving his master’s degree in hospitality, Cavitolo continued his culinary studies in Switzerland before launching Riviera Caterers two years ago in New York. He now turns time-honored Italian family recipes into modern creations, while still maintaining a sense of Old World authenticity, for big-name clients like Nike and Bentley Motors.

Arancini “marble run” food station with tomato, basil, and olive oil powders
"We took something simple and made it extremely fun and interactive."

Photos: Bridget Kenny for BizBash
Shawn Doolin
Shawn Doolin

Entertaining Company
Entertaining Company owner Wendy Pashman describes Shawn Doolin as her “engineer of global cuisine.” The Chicago-based executive chef prepares ethnically diverse menus, including modern Indian fare and feasts for Jewish celebrations. The firm provides full-service catering for more than 1,000 events each year, and clients have included Burberry and the Society for Contemporary Art.

Papadums with tandoori chicken, pickled cipollini onions, and jalapeño crisps
"We wanted to incorporate tandoori chicken and moong dal ka salad—the bride’s two favorite dishes—into an hors d’oeuvre. The cocktail hour was held in the elegantly transformed loading dock, so we wanted the vessel, which became the plantain chip, to be something crispy that would hold up in humidity as well as the distance from the kitchen to the dock. And to make it easier for guests to pick up, we elevated it with silver bowls that were turned upside to create pedestals."

Photos: Chris Cassidy Photography (papadums), Linda Bergonia Photography (Doolin)
Matt Bencivenga
Matt Bencivenga

Wolfgang Puck Catering
Having worked his way up from a cook at a bar and grill, Los Angeles-based Matt Bencivenga is a 20-year veteran of the hospitality industry. As partner and chef of Wolfgang Puck Catering, Bencivenga oversees the company’s culinary development and operations in 15 markets across the country, serving innovative, high-end cuisine at noteworthy events. But he still considers his Jersey-style meatballs his most beloved dish.

White chocolate mousse in golden egg shells
"The egg shell is a great way to showcase different types of dishes. We fill it with chocolate mousse, crab Louie, and other options. Using an egg shell as a vessel during the spring is just so symbolic of the season that it’s become very popular."

Photos: Courtesy of Wolfgang Puck Catering
Matthew Riznyk
Matthew Riznyk

Great Performances
Growing up in Westchester, New York, Matthew Riznyk developed an early passion for cooking with local ingredients. He earned a degree from the Institute of Culinary Education and went on to work for Marriott Hotels and the Myriad Restaurant Group before joining Great Performances in 2007. At the New York-based firm, he uses local, sustainable ingredients to develop dishes for the 100 Mile Menu, which incorporates items from farms within a 100-mile radius.

Seared sea scallops with apple purée, quick-pickled apple and mustard blossoms, and cider gastrique
"We have amazing sea scallops in New England waters, and fall is a great time of year [to serve] them. It is also the perfect season to showcase the diversity of New York State apples. We did this in three ways: in a savory purée, pickled, and in a gastrique."

Photos: Amanda Gentle
Molly Johnson
Molly Johnson

Limelight Catering
Chef Molly Johnson got her big break working as a personal chef for actor Hugh Jackman. These days, she stays busy with full-service catering at Limelight Catering for some 1,000 events each year, and clients have ranged from Steppenwolf Theater Company to Google. Though she boasts a versatile repertoire, the Chicago-based chef specializes in Middle Eastern, and specifically Lebanese, cuisine.

Papadum crisp with braised French lentils, sweet pepper, carrot confit, toasted cumin, and fresh herb vinaigrette
"We ‘paint’ stripes on the plate with honey—or agave nectar if the dish is vegan—using small paintbrushes. Then, we gently dust over each line with an array of ground spices. This plate has turmeric, sweet paprika, cumin, and ground fennel—the same spices used in the preparation of the hors d’oeuvre."

Photos: Erika Dufour/Limelight
For the Oh Joy for Target launch party at a private residence in Beverly Hills earlier this year, Caravents turned patterns from the entertaining and party product collection into vinyl appliqués. The team applied them to the backs of ghost chairs to add on-brand pops of color to the event.
For the Oh Joy for Target launch party at a private residence in Beverly Hills earlier this year, Caravents turned patterns from the entertaining and party product collection into vinyl appliqués. The team applied them to the backs of ghost chairs to add on-brand pops of color to the event.
Photo: Paige Jones
Instead of hosting a show at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week tents in 2011, Lacoste hosted a dinner for 40 at its Fifth Avenue store. The Manhattan space was under construction, so the apparel brand dressed it up with a stained and varnished plywood table under the exposed ceilings and wires, and marked chairs simply with numbers instead of place cards.
Instead of hosting a show at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week tents in 2011, Lacoste hosted a dinner for 40 at its Fifth Avenue store. The Manhattan space was under construction, so the apparel brand dressed it up with a stained and varnished plywood table under the exposed ceilings and wires, and marked chairs simply with numbers instead of place cards.
Photo: Jamie McCarthy/WireImage.com
The Schwarzkopf hair show in Los Angeles last year had a color-blocked look marked by bright, tropical shades. A canopy of colorful fringe hung over the event space, and ghost chairs were emblazoned with versions of the beauty brand's logo.
The Schwarzkopf hair show in Los Angeles last year had a color-blocked look marked by bright, tropical shades. A canopy of colorful fringe hung over the event space, and ghost chairs were emblazoned with versions of the beauty brand's logo.
Photo: Brian Leahy Photography
At the 2003 Angel Ball benefit for the G&P Foundation for Cancer Research in New York, On3's gift lounge included chairs decked with feathery angel wings. It made for striking decor, as well as a way to acknowledge and differentiate the highest-level sponsors.
At the 2003 Angel Ball benefit for the G&P Foundation for Cancer Research in New York, On3's gift lounge included chairs decked with feathery angel wings. It made for striking decor, as well as a way to acknowledge and differentiate the highest-level sponsors.
Photo: Alesandra Dubin/BizBash
For the Boston Ballet’s Balanchine Ball last year, Be Our Guest worked with Seaport Graphics to create custom chair decals for the clear surfaces, a striking decor element that also served as a surprise acknowledgment of the evening's honorees, Eleanor and Frank Pao.
For the Boston Ballet’s Balanchine Ball last year, Be Our Guest worked with Seaport Graphics to create custom chair decals for the clear surfaces, a striking decor element that also served as a surprise acknowledgment of the evening's honorees, Eleanor and Frank Pao.
Photo: Michael Blanchard Photography
Earlier this year, the Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS’ annual Dining by Design benefit in New York included a New York Design Center vignette, designed by Kati Curtis, that used the chairs to make a statement: The idea was to play on gender stereotypes, placing traditionally male or female aesthetics side by side to underscore their difference and also unite them.
Earlier this year, the Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS’ annual Dining by Design benefit in New York included a New York Design Center vignette, designed by Kati Curtis, that used the chairs to make a statement: The idea was to play on gender stereotypes, placing traditionally male or female aesthetics side by side to underscore their difference and also unite them.
Photo: Gustavo Ponce for BizBash
At the 2011 Artists for Humanity “Have a Seat” benefit in Boston, the chairs themselves were a centerpiece of the design as well as the fund-raising effort: Each guest who attended received one of the chairs as a gift. The chairs then lived on in homes and offices all over the city as a conversation starter about the group’s mission.
At the 2011 Artists for Humanity “Have a Seat” benefit in Boston, the chairs themselves were a centerpiece of the design as well as the fund-raising effort: Each guest who attended received one of the chairs as a gift. The chairs then lived on in homes and offices all over the city as a conversation starter about the group’s mission.
Photo: Courtesy of Artists For Humanity
Discovery marked the 25th anniversary of its Shark Week in 2012 with a Beverly Hills party that included shark imagery as dramatic event decor—including as moving projections in the Beverly Hilton’s pool. In addition, custom upholstery showing Shark Week imagery decked chairs for a can’t-miss branding effect.
Discovery marked the 25th anniversary of its Shark Week in 2012 with a Beverly Hills party that included shark imagery as dramatic event decor—including as moving projections in the Beverly Hilton’s pool. In addition, custom upholstery showing Shark Week imagery decked chairs for a can’t-miss branding effect.
Photo: Courtesy of Discovery Communications
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