Courtesy of Cast Software
Vivien 1.5 Virtual Event Designer (416.597.2278, www.viviendesign.com) software is changing the way event planners do business. Cast Software, the program's Toronto-based creator, has created a new and improved version of their already easy-to-use program. Some additional features include library object texturing, a feature that allows users to apply any texture, from polka dots to paisley, directly onto chairs, tables, and more. For the planner who doesn't have the time to build models, the new SketchUp import feature enables users to import library objects from Google SketchUp's 3D Warehouse—it's as simple as finding the 3D object through a Google search and then importing it into the program. Vivien also boasts new decorative library objects like individual flowers, floral arrangements, vases, and trees. Tents of all shapes and sizes have also been added to Vivien's library. With a simple drag and drop, users can quickly show their clients the difference between small and large tent layouts from a variety of vantage points. Included in Vivien 1.5 is a menu item containing information about Accepted Practices Exchange, or APEX, standards. Plus, Vivien is an APEX-endorsed software solution for the meetings and special events industry. A free 15-day trial version of the software is available for download on the Web, and available for purchase at the price of $1,899.
