Looking for a new AV producer, a standout entertainment option, or a new catering partner? We asked top event industry professionals throughout North America to share their go-to collaborators for events of all types.
Photo: Nico Iliev
Printing: “Megan Burket Hunt and the team at C2 Imaging are our go-tos for our hero graphic printing needs. They are incredibly fast if reprints are ever needed, and get them on-site ASAP. Their vinyl installers are arguably the best in the world, and Megan makes herself available to our team within the hour, any time of day, any day of the week. There is hardly a David Stark Design project that C2 Imaging does not provide some aspect for, and their customer service is tops.”
Art Installation: “Often we find ourselves in situations where we need to install very fragile artwork in spaces that require extra care. Konstantin Obuhov and his entire team at EMS Group are the most meticulous, detailed, reliable, solution-oriented partners we have ever encountered in this space.”
Photo: Courtesy of CANDICE&ALISON
Audiovisual Production & Fabrication: “We’re boutique, and we love working with boutique vendors who take on new and challenging ideas in an out-of-the-box fashion. Why we love working Shawn Fortis and his Fortis AV & Custom Builds team is because they can build anything—in the audiovisual department and in the scenic and millwork departments. We dream it, and they always find a way to make it come to life using unexpected solutions and multidisciplinary techniques. From custom furniture and architectural light installations to electrical panels and concert-scale sound productions, Shawn’s technical knowledge is extensive and limit-bending.”
Entertainment: “Entertainment comes in many forms, and we always draw on our fashion backgrounds for inspiration when designing event concepts. We continue to work with fashion professionals in order to produce unique experiences for our clients. When looking for unique entertainment ideas, we collaborate with our good friends at Somebody Studio—a creative agency made up of stylists, hair and makeup artists, visual artists, filmmakers, DJs, and photographers—to dream up stunning and dramatic performances, activations, and/or campaigns.”
Graphics: “Visual graphics are increasingly playing a larger part in live events, from the traditional event branding and on-site collateral, to the digital graphics, video content, and social media content. Now more than ever, the graphics mean just as much as the three-course dinner being served! CANDICE&ALISON has always turned to our friends at Superfish Brands to manage and design all aspect of an event’s graphics—print and digital—not only because of their talent, but also their deep understanding of the nuances of what is needed on-site for an event and how efficiently they’re able to produce quality designs within extremely short timelines.”
Photo: Courtesy of Tammy Dickerson
Catering: “Distinctive cuisine is the heart and soul of an amazing guest experience. From organic to succulent, Shef’s Catering will work with you to create interesting food and beverage plans to enhance the event experience at any venue. From custom meal planning to fit any palate, to private chefs and mixologists, to interesting food displays, they are my go-to catering partner.”
Lighting: “A great lighting designer will absolutely add a unique personality to any event, and Create TheLAB is my go-to partner for all things lighting. Their seasoned team can create any atmosphere for breathtaking live events. Their team works with us to expertly orchestrate the lighting and overall look and feel for any event with perfection.”
Photo Booth: “If you can imagine it, Advanced Party Rentals can create it. They are my go-to for all types of amazing photo booths, especially their state-of-the-art 360 Photo Booth. They have the ability to fabricate and customize a variety of looks for my clients that makes them one of my favorite vendors. I love that we can collaborate on a client’s vision and unique interactive experiences; they are a huge part of my firm and success.”
