The Special Event is the premier tradeshow and conference for event professionals. This year, the conference celebrated its 30th Anniversary and it was definitely one for the books! From a blow out party at the Anaheim Garden Walk to a live on-stage marriage proposal – we saw it all. As a graduating senior at the Rosen College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida, I knew TSE 2015 would be the best way to kick off my last semester. From educational sessions to the tradeshow floor, there was so much to learn and see! Below are my top ten event highlights (in no particular order).
The Rising Heroes Project
Last year, Brett Culp introduced his documentary Legends of the Knight, a film about the “power that all of us have to be heroes”. He invited event professionals, among others, to host screenings at local theaters to help fundraise for charitable organizations and raised over $60,000. This has inspired him to create The Rising Heroes Project – a 501c3 not for profit in an effort to produce another film with the same charitable goals. Brett had nothing but praise for the contributions from the members of our industry and it was an inspiration to hear the stories of the lives he touched and hopes to continue touching!
Giveaway Idea: Potty Mints
On a much lighter note, check out this ingenious creation! Known as the “after flush,” Potty Mints are air freshener tablets you simply drop into the toilet after it’s been used. They will leave your bathrooms smelling good as new with their “Arancia di Capri” and ” La Fleur” fragrances. This is a memorable touch for your bathrooms – even port-a-potties! Speaking of portable toilets, if you need to hire some toilets for your next event, be sure to compare luxury toilet hire prices from a few different companies. There are some fantastic deals out there at the moment.
Entertainment Idea: Party Hat Decorating
Voted “Best Customer Service” on the tradeshow floor, Party Hats Entertainment creates custom hats for any themed event! Your guests can visit the “Creation Zone” where they can hand pick decorations to customize their hats. It’s perfect for corporate branding at corporate events, festivals, conferences, and more. This was hands down the busiest booth on the tradeshow floor, and a must have at your event!
Decor Ideas: Metallics
Metallics are making a comeback in style. We saw them start to resurface with the Great Gatsby movie and they have begun to completely dominate the event scene. From accent pieces to full event concepts, go bold with metallics!
Event Technology: Rotating Stage
Just when I thought I’ve seen it all at TSE, it got better. The bar and DJ booth at the Closing Night Reception were placed on a rotating stage that turned just slow enough to get you around the entire party without feeling like you had moved at all. It was definitely a unique and memorable experience!
Event Technology: Projection Mapping
This incredible technology has finally found it’s way into the event industry at the most affordable price it’s ever been. Otherwise known as 3D mapping, this technology will scan the object or item you wish to project an image on, and create a video projection that perfectly fits the curvature of the object. This technology can bring anything to life with moving graphics, optical illusions and more!
Entertainment Idea: Extreme Beam
This is a performance you will never forget! As seen on the X Factor, Extreme Beam is a lazer lightshow performer that will custom choreograph his show for any event. With plenty of light bending and manipulation set to heart-pounding music, the show is perfect for a general session opening performance.
Giveaway Idea: Bedazzle My Bonbon’s
Sometimes, all your event needs is a little pop of glitz! These glitter covered chocolate bonbons are not only a fun addition to your event, but they are also absolutely delicious. With 8 flavors and 36 color combinations, the options are endless. They can be customized with the color and theme of your event or incorporated into centerpieces, party favors, and cake decorations. They also make excellent giveaways.
And Finally…
Entertainment Idea: Collins Key
If you need a magician for an upcoming event, this guy is for you! As seen on America’s Got Talent, Collins Key has performed around the nation for the America’s Got Talent Tour, as well as Demi Lovato’s Neon Lights Tour. He is the only magician to trend on social media worldwide, so you know he’s doing something right. His performance is a fun and unique take to magic that will leave your guests in awe.
There were so many incredible innovations throughout the event, it was hard to pick just a few! If you were at TSE 2015, what were your favorite trends? I can’t wait to see what happens at TSE 2016 as it will be hosted right here in Orlando! See you there!
Guest Blogger: Chiara Raia
Chiara was a past intern at Exhilarate Events. Since then, she has gone on to be involved in several large events, including the Cannes Film Festival in France and Univision’s Premios Juventud. She has also established the Knights Special Events Society (KSES) at UCF’s Rosen Campus.