BizBash
  • Production & Strategy
  • Catering & Design
  • Event Tech & Virtual
  • Venues & Destinations
  • Meetings & Trade Shows
  • Sports
  • Advertise
  • Events
Topics
  • Production & Strategy
  • Catering & Design
  • Event Tech & Virtual
  • Venues & Destinations
  • Meetings & Trade Shows
  • Sports
  • Advertise
  • Events
  • Industry Buzz
  • BizBash Lists
Resources
  • On-Demand
  • White Papers & E-Books
  • Podcast
  • Magazine
  • Events
  • Awards
  • Subscribe
User Tools
Follow BizBash
Instagram iconLinkedIn iconFacebook iconTwitter X icon Pinterest iconYouTube iconTikTok
  • About Us
  • Advertise
  • Get Featured
  • Press Releases
  • Newsletter Signup
  • Subscribe to Magazine
Follow BizBash
Instagram iconLinkedIn iconFacebook iconTwitter X icon Pinterest iconYouTube iconTikTok
  • Production & Strategy
  • Catering & Design
  • Event Tech & Virtual
  • Venues & Destinations
  • Meetings & Trade Shows
  • Sports
  • Advertise
  • Events
  • On-Demand
  • White Papers & E-Books
  • Podcast
  • Magazine
  • Events
  • Awards
  • Subscribe
  1. Venues & Destinations
  2. Global

BizBash Toasts Event Industry Giants at Hall of Fame Ceremony

More than 350 people gathered to salute industry leaders and rising stars during the evening event.

Nicole Peck
June 6, 2017

BizBash inducted five event industry icons into its Hall of Fame and recognized two risings stars in the industry on May 24 in New York. The ceremony, held in the Grand Ballroom at the Manhattan Center, was executive produced by Bardin Palomo. The ballroom’s design featured an array of mirrors and metallics with decor including micro-sequined gold linens and towering flower arrangements.

Three food stations came from different caterers. They included dessert terrariums from Creative Edge Parties, seafood dishes from In Thyme Catered Events, and a vegetable carving station from Great Performances. There was also a specialty bar sponsored by the Bermuda Tourism Authority, and a photo booth and electronic guest book by Simon Elliot Events.

During an interview-style presentation, the honorees spoke about their inspirations, mentors, and commitment to live events. The honorees were Matthew David Hopkins of 360 Design by Matthew David; Steve Paster of Alpine Creative Group; Chris and Jill Drury of Drury Design; the KPMG Events & Meetings team; and BizBash president Richard Aaron. Rising stars recognized were Victoria Lee of Estée Lauder Companies and Liz Castelli, Adette Contreras, and Erica Taylor Haskins of Tinsel & Twine. Honorees were chosen by the BizBash executive committee for their work, accomplishments, and contributions to the industry, and join a distinguished group of industry professionals.

BizBash extends a special thank-you the evening’s sponsors and to the more than 350 guests in attendance, all of whom continually inspire the industry to create smarter events.

BizBash returns to New York on Wednesday, October 25, for BizBash Live: New York and the Wedding Show for Something Different, both held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

BizBash president Richard Aaron was surprised with a shower of confetti during his induction.
BizBash president Richard Aaron was surprised with a shower of confetti during his induction.
Photo: Elizabeth Hand for BizBash
Bardin Palomo was the event's executive producer and created an array of centerpieces, from towering florals to tabletop arrangements.
Bardin Palomo was the event's executive producer and created an array of centerpieces, from towering florals to tabletop arrangements.
Photo: Elizabeth Hand for BizBash
Low couches with metallic pillows along the sides of the ballroom created lounge-like spaces for guests.
Low couches with metallic pillows along the sides of the ballroom created lounge-like spaces for guests.
Photo: Elizabeth Hand for BizBash
Each honoree received a crystal medallion created by Cristaux.
Each honoree received a crystal medallion created by Cristaux.
Photo: Elizabeth Hand for BizBash
Great Expectations set up a 'vegetable carvery' with eggplant, sweet potato, and other vegetables at carving stations, along with an array of sauces.
Great Expectations set up a "vegetable carvery" with eggplant, sweet potato, and other vegetables at carving stations, along with an array of sauces.
Photo: Elizabeth Hand for BizBash
A four-sided bar stood in the center of the Grand Ballroom at the Manhattan Center.
A four-sided bar stood in the center of the Grand Ballroom at the Manhattan Center.
Photo: Nicole Peck/BizBash
Honorees and BizBash executives included (from left to right): BizBash executive vice president Nicole Peck; Danielle Purfey of KPMG; Steve Paster of Alpine Creative Group; Chris Drury and Jill Drury of Drury Design; BizBash president Richard Aaron; Carol Muldoon of KPMG; Matthew David Hopkins of 360 Design by Matthew David; Tammy Benedict of KPMG; and BizBash C.E.O. David Adler.
Honorees and BizBash executives included (from left to right): BizBash executive vice president Nicole Peck; Danielle Purfey of KPMG; Steve Paster of Alpine Creative Group; Chris Drury and Jill Drury of Drury Design; BizBash president Richard Aaron; Carol Muldoon of KPMG; Matthew David Hopkins of 360 Design by Matthew David; Tammy Benedict of KPMG; and BizBash C.E.O. David Adler.
Photo: Elizabeth Hand for BizBash
Rising Star honorees at the event were (from left to right): Victoria Lee of Estée Lauder Companies and Erica Taylor Haskins, Liz Castelli, and Adette Contreras of Tinsel & Twine.
Rising Star honorees at the event were (from left to right): Victoria Lee of Estée Lauder Companies and Erica Taylor Haskins, Liz Castelli, and Adette Contreras of Tinsel & Twine.
Photo: Elizabeth Hand for BizBash
Latest in Global
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt has launched SUMMIT Events, a new private event space in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud’s catering venture, Cuisine Boulud New York, offering an elevated experience atop one of Midtown Manhattan’s most iconic observatories. Opening July 1, the striking new venue is a 72nd-floor space with panoramic skyline views, mirrored interiors, and direct access to the immersive, multifloor SUMMIT One Vanderbilt attraction. It seats 100 or holds 120 for receptions.
Global
What's New in Event Venues: Sustainability and Wellness Offerings, a 'Bed Bug Safe' Certification, and More
W Hotels recently revealed a multimillion-dollar transformation of W Austin—and the resulting space now boasts the Texas capital's largest suite. Penthouse I (pictured) spans 1,798 square feet; in addition to panoramic views of Lady Bird Lake and the Austin skyline, the suite has a separate service entrance, perfect for catered social gatherings at the large dining table. The hotel has 32 suites in all, which offer personalized concierge service, Dyson Airblades, record players, and exclusive artwork from artists across Texas and beyond.
Global
What's New in Event Venues: Art-Centric Experiences, All-Inclusive Resort Add-Ons, and More
'There’s really nothing else like it in California,' Meta's Damien Baines says of The Donum Estate, his favorite event venue to entertain a client.
Global
Meta's Head of Experiential Marketing and Creative Shares His Favorite Event Venues
Hawaii's 605-room, event-friendly Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa has introduced a unique new offering for groups: the 'Harmonizing Experiences' workshop, tailored for groups seeking enhanced communication and better dynamics through tai chi principles. This workshop, guided by seasoned practitioners, employs tai chi exercises to help participants balance their energy, focusing on using mental focus rather than physical strength to execute continuous, fluid movements. The exercises aim to convert tension into cooperation and frustration into flow, cultivating a more empathetic and unified group atmosphere.
Global
What's New in Event Venues: How the Tariffs Are Affecting the Hotel Industry and More
Related Stories
44712466 2369524853063309 723730486484008960 N
Decor/Design/Flowers
Simon Elliot Events
54433463 10156697669060073 5342858502119358464 O
Name Tags/Lanyards
PC/NAMETAG
Hammerstein Ballroom decked out for theatrical cocktail party.
Ballrooms (All Venues)
Manhattan Center: Hammerstein Ballroom & Grand Ballroom
Brent Bolthouse's famous late-night Neon Carnival will return this year—its eighth—with title sponsorship from Levi's.
Global
Coachella 2017 Party Preview: What's New, What's Back, and What's Trending
More in Global
Global
What's New in Event Venues: Sustainability and Wellness Offerings, a 'Bed Bug Safe' Certification, and More
BizBash rounds up the latest news from hotels, convention centers, meeting spaces, restaurants, and other event venues around the world.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt has launched SUMMIT Events, a new private event space in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud’s catering venture, Cuisine Boulud New York, offering an elevated experience atop one of Midtown Manhattan’s most iconic observatories. Opening July 1, the striking new venue is a 72nd-floor space with panoramic skyline views, mirrored interiors, and direct access to the immersive, multifloor SUMMIT One Vanderbilt attraction. It seats 100 or holds 120 for receptions.
Global
What's New in Event Venues: Art-Centric Experiences, All-Inclusive Resort Add-Ons, and More
BizBash rounds up the latest news from hotels, convention centers, meeting spaces, restaurants, and other event venues around the world.
W Hotels recently revealed a multimillion-dollar transformation of W Austin—and the resulting space now boasts the Texas capital's largest suite. Penthouse I (pictured) spans 1,798 square feet; in addition to panoramic views of Lady Bird Lake and the Austin skyline, the suite has a separate service entrance, perfect for catered social gatherings at the large dining table. The hotel has 32 suites in all, which offer personalized concierge service, Dyson Airblades, record players, and exclusive artwork from artists across Texas and beyond.
Global
Meta's Head of Experiential Marketing and Creative Shares His Favorite Event Venues
Damien Baines dishes on his favorite spots to entertain clients, get inspired, host an event abroad, and more.
'There’s really nothing else like it in California,' Meta's Damien Baines says of The Donum Estate, his favorite event venue to entertain a client.
Global
What's New in Event Venues: How the Tariffs Are Affecting the Hotel Industry and More
BizBash rounds up the latest news from hotels, convention centers, meeting spaces, restaurants, and other event venues around the world.
Hawaii's 605-room, event-friendly Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa has introduced a unique new offering for groups: the 'Harmonizing Experiences' workshop, tailored for groups seeking enhanced communication and better dynamics through tai chi principles. This workshop, guided by seasoned practitioners, employs tai chi exercises to help participants balance their energy, focusing on using mental focus rather than physical strength to execute continuous, fluid movements. The exercises aim to convert tension into cooperation and frustration into flow, cultivating a more empathetic and unified group atmosphere.
Global
10 New International Venues for 2025 Meetings and Events
Take a peek at these buzzworthy restaurants, hotels, meeting and event spaces, and more recently opened worldwide.
Château St. Gerlach | Maastricht, Netherlands
Global
What's New in Event Venues: Unique Wellness Initiatives, New Sustainability Tools, and More
BizBash rounds up the latest news from hotels, convention centers, meeting spaces, restaurants, and other event venues around the world.
Looking for a fun event moment near some of Atlanta's most popular venues? Following a $2.5 million renovation, the Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) has reopened the popular Fountain of Rings landmark at Centennial Olympic Park. Daily shows, which kicked off this week, see water spray to heights of over 15 feet, along with more than 250 new LED ring lights offering 360-degree illumination in vibrant colors and patterns, and a sophisticated fog system with over 200 individual fog emitters—all synchronized to a curated playlist of songs from artists with ties to Georgia. In addition to Centennial Olympic Park, GWCCA’s campus includes the Georgia World Congress Center, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and Signia by Hilton Atlanta.
Most Popular
Experiential Marketing, Activations & Sponsorships
See Inside This High-Tech, Multisensory Experience from Don Julio
Experiential Marketing, Activations & Sponsorships
This Event Turned Home Decor Into a Celebration of Latinas' Life Moments
Meetings
C2 Montreal 2025: How the Business Conference Puts Creativity in 'Motion'
Event Design & Decor
How BET’s Stylish Anniversary Dinner Honored the Past—and Embraced the Future
Trends
What's New in Meetings and Trade Shows: MPI WEC Heads to St. Louis, New Trends Report Shows Corporate Events on the Rise, and More
Industry Insiders
Inside the Build: How Bellagio Fountain Club Delivers F1® Weekend’s Most Luxurious Hospitality Experience
Global
What's New in Event Venues: Billion-Dollar Airport Revamps, Hotel Design Trends, and More
BizBash rounds up the latest news from hotels, convention centers, meeting spaces, restaurants, and other event venues around the world.
The 251-room W Austin completed a multimillion-dollar transformation in January. The revitalization includes redesigned guest rooms and a new restaurant concept, Serenade American Brasserie (pictured), where chef de cuisine Johnny Ray Stinebaugh blends Texan flavors with classic brasserie techniques. The hotel has more than 10,000 square feet of event space and is located next to the popular ACL Live music venue.
Global
What's New in Event Venues: How the Wildfires Are Affecting LA Venues, Plus 2025 Design Trends and More
BizBash rounds up the latest news from hotels, convention centers, meeting spaces, restaurants, and other event venues around the world.
Looking for a truly VIP event experience? Park Hyatt New York has debuted the Manhattan Suite, now available for stays starting at $50,000 per night. The exclusive suite, complemented by two additional connecting suites, spans 3,500 square feet with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two balconies, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering 180-degree views of Manhattan’s skyline; it can accommodate up to 10 guests overnight. There’s also a bespoke art collection and more than 50 New York and art-inspired coffee-table books, plus an eight-seat dining table and plenty of space for meetings and social gatherings. The hotel can also arrange private jet transfers to New York City, an in-suite chef tasting dinner, Peloton bikes, and more.
Global
What's New in Event Venues: A 'Wicked'-Themed Suite, a Hotel Brand's Artisan Marketplace, and More
BizBash rounds up the latest news from hotels, convention centers, meeting spaces, restaurants, and other event venues around the world.
This holiday season, New York Hilton Midtown and Universal Pictures are bringing hotel guests into the world of Wicked with a specially designed suite inspired by the film. Scroll down to learn more.
Global
What's New in Event Venues: The Election's Impact on Hospitality, a New Wellness Certification, and More
BizBash rounds up the latest news from hotels, convention centers, meeting spaces, restaurants, and other event venues around the world.
Up Norway offers curated work retreats in scenic Norwegian locales, ideal for remote teams seeking a blend of work, nature, and cultural immersion. Options include a village takeover in Knutholmen for larger groups, an urban creative retreat at the new Revier Hotel in Oslo, a nature-driven experience at the historic Hattvika Lodge in the Lofoten Islands, and a music and writing retreat at Raw Ocean Lodge on the western coast. With activities like fjord tours, art workshops, and guided hikes, Up Norway tailors each retreat to corporate goals, enhancing team connection and productivity in Norway’s breathtaking settings.
Global
What's New in Event Venues: First Fully Electric Conference Center in the US, Marriott's New 'Fanbassador,' and More
BizBash rounds up the latest news from hotels, convention centers, meeting spaces, restaurants, and other event venues around the world.
When Taylor Swift's Eras Tour comes to New Orleans in October, Kimpton Hotel Fontenot’s Peacock Room (pictured) will host a Swift-inspired costume contest brunch. The contest winner will walk away with a free night’s stay at the hotel.
Global
An Experiential Event Prof Shares Her Favorite Venues Around the World
​​Erica Taylor Haskins, co-founder and chief growth officer at Tinsel Experiential Design, shares her favorite spots to entertain clients, get inspired, host a cool brand activation, and more.
'The Cathedral of St. John the Divine [in New York] is such a striking hidden gem and one of my favorite event venues in the city,' says Tinsel Experiential Design's Erica Taylor Haskins.
Page 1 of 56
Next Page
BizBash
Follow BizBash
Instagram iconLinkedIn iconFacebook iconTwitter X icon Pinterest iconYouTube iconTikTok
  1. Privacy Policy
  2. CCPA: Do Not Sell My Personal Info
  3. Contact Us
  4. Site Map
© 2025 Connect Biz, LLC. All rights reserved.