Event Trend: Live Art Demonstrations

At most events, one of the primary goals is to have everything done and perfect before the audience arrives. Now, many event planners are turning this idea upside-down. The new trend is to have the audience watch as key parts of the set are completed on the spot. Of course, this doesn't refer to having your guests watch men in overalls and scaffolds hammer plywood panels together! Instead, it's done by having live art demonstrations as part of the exhibition. In these, actual professional artists draw murals and other artworks during the events. Many are fascinated to be able to see the process as it unfolds.

Several variations on this idea have taken place over the last few months. Here are a few that may bring you inspiration:

The Discovery Venice Consumer Pop-Up Preview Event

Here, a surfboard artist was brought in to paint boards as people waited. Fitness gurus Gabby Reece and Laird Hamilton hosted the preview event, which surely made the early guests want to come back to see the full exhibition.

Outward Bound National Benefit Dinner

Who needs candid photography when you can have an artist sketch out key scenes of your event as they happen? That's what was done at this non-profit event, where artist Michael Arthur sketched on a visible screen as presenters talked.

3 Days in Miami Festival

Put on by Red Bull Sound Select, this event featured an artist who drew both posters and portrait pins on the spot. These were handed out for patrons to take home as souvenirs. The unique nature of such mementos will surely keep Red Bull in guests' minds for years to come.

Keep a Child Alive's 13th Annual Black Ball

This charity ball celebrated the spirit of the AIDS activism of the 80s with events including a live art installation by British artist Shantell Martin.

Choosing an Artist for Your Event

In order to be successful at a live installation, an artist must be able to work fast and tune out distractions. To ensure that everything goes without a hitch, be sure to ask your preferred artist if he or she can work under these specific conditions. Of course, you should also make sure all of the details are known and settled, such as: What will be drawn, what style of art you'll get, and similar aspects. This way, you can be sure that the results will match the brand image you want to portray.

For a great venue for your next event in Miami, try Soho Studios. We have 70,000 square feet of space that can be configured for almost any event. You won't have any trouble fitting a large enough canvas inside for your live art displays!

How to Create a Buzz Worthy Event

Every company wants its event to create plenty of buzz. In fact, it's usually the entire point of putting on an exhibition or other show. Despite this, hundreds of events pass by almost unnoticed every year. How can you make sure that yours is remembered and talked about instead of fading into obscurity? Set Your Goals

Your event needs a goal beyond simply entertaining people. As an event planner, you need to ask your clients what they want to accomplish with their expo. Do they want to introduce a new product, increase buzz about an older one, or promote their company in a more general way? By having a clear end-goal in mind right from the start, you'll be able to better focus your event.

Know Your Audience

An internal, corporate audience will respond to a far different type of presentation than a crowd from the general public. Playing to the media requires a presentation style all its own. For corporate audiences, keep things crisp and concise so they don't start thinking of other things they could be doing. The public and media, on the other hand, may be glad to immerse themselves in your show for hours if it's compelling enough.

Plan

One of the biggest dangers of putting on an event is that it'll seem aimless. The other danger is that it'll end up beset by snafus. Worst of all is some combination of the two. Avoiding these issues is as simple as planning everything down to the last detail. Everything from the venue to the brochures on the tables should be carefully thought out. Be sure to have backup plans just in case you have to adapt to unexpected changes in your original one, too.

Be Ready for On-Site Surprises

All of the best planning will go awry if you aren't prepared for the inevitable turns of events that occur whenever big crowds come together. Make all of your props and sets resistant to jostling, spilled drinks, and other such things. No matter what happens, keep your cool – you want attendees to focus on the event itself, not your reaction to an unplanned surprise.

Assign Clear Roles to All Staff

In order for a team to work efficiently, everyone must know what their responsibilities are. A team without clear roles is like a football team where nobody knows who's supposed to be the quarterback – it wouldn't be remotely effective. Make sure everyone has a clear plan for their own individual roles.

Host Your Event in the Proper Venue

Our 70,000-square-foot venue here at Soho Studios in Miami can be configured for both small and large events. If you're hosting an exhibition in the area, be sure to stop by. You'll find that it's perfect for both corporate and public events.

How Jaguar Shared the Ultimate Driving Experience

VR is here, and it’s only getting more popular. The Oculus Rift, HTC Vive and even Google Cardboard have opened the doors to immersive advertisement—and event marketers are taking note. Virtual reality is today’s one-stop-shop experiential toolkit, capable of immersing entire audiences into brand messages, product tests and strategic launches. Now, Jaguar has taken the reigns—and they’ve introduced their all-electric I-PACE car concepts in the virtual world.

The Launch

Jaguar’s event experienced four attendee “waves,” which included celebrities, automotive lifestyle gurus and media experts. It was a fitting crowd, because the display itself promoted the ideologies of modern media, immersive user experiences and—of course—innovation. Ian Hoban, Jaguar’s vehicle line director, even appeared live within the event’s virtual reality segment. Inside, he revealed the new I-PACE, giving attendees freedom to view the product in full virtual reality.

The launch happened on November 14—two days before Jaguar’s appearance in Los Angeles at Milk Studios.

An HTC Vive Extravaganza

Yes, the HTC Vive was Jaguar’s chosen VR apparatus. The event, however, wasn’t centric to the Vive. Attendees were given a gracious breakfast, a refreshing lunch and even an afternoon teatime. The party, later that night, prioritized group experiences—rather than solo-flyer VR sessions.

Attendees could sit, view the I-PACE and explore the brand’s options throughout 35-minute sessions. During these sessions, users were transported into the driver’s seat, which is a rarity in auto shows. Of course, the Vive’s 360-degree head-tracking technology prompted an environment of full immersion. Users could step out, view the I-PACE’s exterior and even check under the hood. The I-PACE’s electric power technology was showcased, giving attendees full visibility of Jaguar’s latest, greatest innovations.

Live Streaming in the VR World

In the past, VR experiences were incredibly private. It wasn’t rare to see slippery brand promotions which were exclusive to the viewer. Because Jaguar’s attention to detail—and the HTC Vive’s growth—users could view the event’s content without actually being there.

As attendees experienced the I-PACE’s interior, a visual live feed relayed the event’s innards. Event-goers could ask questions in real-time, too, interacting with presenters throughout the experience.

VR was a fitting presentation frame for the I-PACE, which is Jaguar’s most cutting-edge option to date. Reportedly, it pushes the boundaries in both technology and design. Its concepts certainly demanded a big-time reveal, and innovation is a spice to be used in multiple forms. When the user’s individual experience is up close, personable and flexible, the brand wins. Take a page out of Jaguar’s book, and check out the great options presented by the HTC Vive and similar options. Your attendees will thank you.

How your Catering Menu Will Make or Break Your Event

Your event is much more than a cool display collection. In the business world, successful events are experiences. The food you serve, whether it’s at a corporate meeting, a tech expo or a major industry extravaganza, will give your consumers a specific feeling towards you as a provider. Keep in mind: Your catering menu is important. It can make, or break, an event—and we’re here to tell you why.

Reason One: Time

Time is of the essence. Before we get to the attendee’s mindset, we need to talk about the clock. If you hire a catering company, make sure the prepared menu is simple, delightful and memorable. Make sure you don’t need a ton of time to plan, cook, serve and pick up the dishes. You’d be surprised how much can go wrong if an event’s menu is overcomplicated.

Reason Two: Versatility

Second, versatility should be considered. A versatile menu—one with detailed options—can inspire creativity from the get-go. A rigid menu, however, may turn your attendees off, food-wise. Make sure you’re offering at least three main courses, and sprinkle a little creativity atop the side items and appetizers. Remember: It’s an event. Your attendees will be hungry, but they’re more likely to indulge in savory apps than a full-course mean.

Reason Three: Dietary Needs

The biggest way to kill event dining interest is to lack specialty options. No, not diverse options—specialty options. We’re talking diet food versions, vegan options, soy-free food and vegetarian dishes. You shouldn’t assume your eventgoers are a diet-free crowd. Offer dietary accommodations, and set yourself apart from leading competitors.

Reason Four: Spice Diversity

Oddly enough, spices tend to be “make or break” topics for event-goers. Offer dish variety with spices. From side items to meats, a lot of cuisines can be changed based upon their included spices. Italian, Indian and Mexican cuisines, in particular, are highly susceptible to various spices.

Reason Five: Complimentary Items

No one likes a stingy event provider. A catering menu can shatter interest if it doesn’t offer a few free side items. No, you don’t need to ditch the RSVP, but you should be flexible when guests ask for more bread, soda or similar inexpensive items. If your event has dips, consider implanting a buffet bar for pre-entrée experiences.

Your event isn’t defined by its catering menu, but it can certainly benefit from a good one. At the same time, a poorly constructed, restrictive or otherwise uncreative catering menu can destroy an event’s legitimacy. Food can define a brand’s quality, attention to detail and willingness to include attendees. Make sure you do it right, and contact Soho Studios today. Our in-house Starr Catering Group is here to help, and it's fully packed with exclusive kitchen amenities, time-tested-and-true recipes and today's latest, greatest menu options.

Experiential Marketing 101: Why Audi Decided to Rebrand from the Inside Out

Audi’s experiential marketers are on a roll, and they’re revamping the brand’s image from the ground up. From Audi’s A3 launch events to its CES exhibit floor, its high focus on consumer marketing has been batting a thousand. It’s made an appearance in Miami’s Wynwood, Alcatraz and even at a Major League Soccer sponsorship event. From head to toe, Audi has gotten a high-adrenaline makeover.

Rebuilding a Brand

Audi didn’t necessarily need a solid rebranding initiative, but its recent live engagements have revitalized the age-old mantra of, “If you can strategize it, it’ll work.” A key difference between Audi’s newest marketing maneuvers and competitive brands is its high focus on in-the-moment action.

Audi’s experiential team hasn’t pulled any punches. While it’s previously used typical auto shows to launch new vehicle reveals, it’s prioritized the consumer experience across various markets with hands-on track introductions. Closed-course programs were at the foundation of Audi’s grand scheme, powering later driving experiences with a solid history, alone.

That isn’t to say Audi’s experiential marketing is strapped for ideas, either. Rather, Audi’s senior manager of events and experiential marketing, Erin Keating, placed a high focus on property exposure, product coordination and—of course—global appeal.

Power to the Marketers: Revitalizing with Engaging Experiences

Audi’s experiential marketing department, powered by incredible minds and practical solutions, doubled its staff. Now sitting at 10 innovative leaders, it exists as a comprehensive power-house consisting of a VIP and influencer specialist, a motorsports manager, a European product delivery coordinator and more. Audi’s experiential outreach team isn’t new to the game, and they’ve put incredible detail into revamping the Audi Driving Experience.

The Audi Driving Experience, itself, is Audi’s rebranding platform—based upon comprehensive exposure campaigns, local launch events and trade shows. A big part of Audi’s experiential rebranding effort is its regional sponsorships. Already, the brand has activated two national sports entities, obtaining support from both Major League Soccer and the U.S. Ski Team.

Technology Outreach

In a surprising move, Audi recently solidified its action-packed experiential marketing campaign with a high degree of technological aestheticism. Audi’s Dome of Quattro, for example, debuted at the Denver International Airport. The high-definition, 30-foot tall techno dome featured a hospitality lounge, Audi’s sleek design, a curved bar and a massive digital screen presenting documentaries about Le mans and the U.S. Ski Team.

The technological angle is telling, because immersive tech, itself, is becoming synonymous with lifestyle and sports marketing. Free Wi-Fi goes a long way, especially when it’s sued to present a gigantic digital tunnel video. Make no mistake: Audi’s marketing tactics are rising quickly, and they’re only getting better. When equipped with a solid experiential marketing team, brands have incredible potential.

How Demos Can Boost Your Brand Awareness

In the world of marketing, brand awareness is paramount. More often than not, product and service demos are solid foundations. If you want to boost sales, increase awareness and maximize your outreach, you’ll need to prioritize presentation, usability and—most of all—excitement. Check out the top reasons brands are demonstrating with demos, and redefine your marketing strategy from the ground up.

Reason One: Higher Sales

Using demos is smart, sales-wise. In fact, a lot of brands are optimizing their expenses to streamline in-store samples and demos. Studies prove that in-store demos boost same-day sales, brand franchise sales and long-term consumer habits. Even if you’re not a food provider, samples exist in other forms. That said, food-based samples alone can greatly impact sales. As an example, Costco samples reportedly boost sales by approximately 2,000 percent.

Reason Two: Lead Generation

Today, everything is digital. Because your consumers are using smartphones, Facebook and instant-access eCommerce portals, you’ll need to prioritize your brand’s lead generation power. How? By inviting consumers to receive special deals via SMS, email and social media posts. Consumers love free demos—especially if there’s little work involved. By offering demos, samples and discounts via a digital marketing strategy, you can boost your brand’s lead generation before buyers show up.

Reason Three: More Testimonials

In our highly digital world, positive online reviews are must-haves. Brands capable of inspiring high emotional intensity, on average, achieve three times as many positive reviews as other brands. Highly differentiated brands, too, earn positive word-of-mouth. If you can woo your customers with solid demos, exhibits and free trials, you’ll be set. Prioritize your brand’s emotional appeal, first. Then, focus on general marketing tactics.

Reason Four: Ongoing Sales Security

A solid demo campaign can boost sales over time. This is why marketers often take the experiential route—as they can reduce expenses by combining PR campaigns with on-location demo events. Immediate sales are important, sure, but they’re incomparable to ongoing sales-centric campaigns. If you can offer a solid demo, you can ensure registry sign-ups. From there, you’re established to re-promote, gain more followers and ensure future success.

Reason Five: Immediate Feedback

Because today’s feedback channels are often brand forums, review websites and social media, a little on-location feedback never hurts. Ask your demo crowd if the product works. More importantly: Ask them what they liked specifically. If they don’t purchase the product after, ask them why.

In any event, more information is better. Consumer participation is incredibly valuable, and it can power long-term brand campaigns. In the marketing world, getting experiential never hurts. In fact, it’s becoming a mainstream approach for many companies. When everyone can promote digitally, hands-on demonstrations are highly memorable.

How American Express Shared the Love with Small Gift Handouts

What do American Express and small businesses have in common? Great events. To jam-pack the holiday season with fun, American Express crafted an intuitive gifting campaign—surprising thousands of fans while leveraging its entire Shop Small platform. The event, itself, was all about putting small businesses first—sponsoring six different NBA teams while promoting holiday cheer.

The Shop Small for 2X Rewards Movement

American Express kicked off its event across six NBA games from November 10 to December 22. Their campaign, dubbed the Shop Small for 2X Rewards Movement, started at the HEAT’s Chicago Bulls game. The American Airlines Arena in Miami was a prime location for American Express’s reveal. Attendees were barraged with hundreds of customized T-shirts, which were ported directly from Peace Love World—a Miami retailer.

The Shop Small for 2X Rewards Movement didn’t stop there. American Express continued blasting fans until the Warriors game against the Celtics. At the event, American Express had a final huzzah by handing out 1,200 gift cards sourced from local businesses. On November 25, American hopped over to the Los Angeles Lakers game—offering another 1,500 sneaker wipes, gift cards and Lakers socks. This time, Blends—a local sneaker shop—was the benefactor.

Fast-Paced Giveaways

Among American Express’s big-time marketing initiatives, it’s fast-paced giveaways were certainly notable. It’s rare to see a competitive approach to swag handouts. That said, American Express’s presence at NBA games, in general, is telling. American Express distributed a recorded 22,000 candles at the Chicago Bulls game, representing 450 brand ambassadors in two minutes flat.

The historical experiential marketing moment might’ve been spearheaded by American Express, but the surrounding brands certainly had a say—and a massive presence. Local shop, Abbey Brown, was responsible for delivering the gifts. Once the campaign wrapped up, 250 Shop Small parachutes handed out another 2,000 wool gloves crafted by local Brooklyn merchants.

The Social Media Angle

No marketing outreach effort stands tall without a little social media support. In celebration of the event, American Express utilized its NBA partnership with Shaquile O’Neal to promote on Facebook and Twitter. Understandably, this approach was a good idea. The campaign, itself, was a prime example of American Express’s dedication to fan experiences.

Constantly encouraging credit holders to “shop small,” it isn’t strange to see American Express catapult an array of small-time gifts. Here, their targeting strategy is highlighted. American Express’s approach wasn’t about what was given—but how it was given. Card members are frequent amenity-lovers, and even a small marketing notion goes a long way. Marketing during a venue, certainly, is a unique angle. It’s entirely human, bringing products and services directly to the client’s level.

The Golden Globes: What Were Our Favorite Events of the Night

We at Soho Studios appreciate a good party. The Golden Globes red carpet was packed with extravagance, innovation and today’s hottest talent. Sure, the Golden Globes as a whole was unique, awesome and memorable. A few events stood out, however, and we want to give them praise.

Moët & Chandon "Toast for a Cause"

First, we want to tip our hats to Moët & Chandon, which celebrated its 26^th anniversary. Serving up crisp champagne, Moët & Chandon highlighted the Golden Globes way of live by putting visitors first. It also established a black-and-gold display. The scenic bar, outfitted for its “Toast for a Cause” drive, partnered with celebs to raise charity money. Moët & Chandon vowed to donate $1,000 in the names of donating celebrities, as well as another $1,000 per funded participant.

The HBO Golden Globes Party

At the center of the Golden Globes extravaganza, HBO worked with long-term event design partner Billy Butchkavitz. The annual bash was invigorated with a minimalist approach, and vibrant patters certainly paired well with its soothing color palette. Even though it was a Golden Globes experience, HBO decked out the area with khaki, gray, silver and champagne. Sometimes, sharp attention is needed to pool off soothing vibes.

The Fox and Hulu Party

On the event’s other end, Fox partnered with Hulu and 15/40 Productions to host the event’s annual afterparty. The Fox and Hulu party featured 800 floating lanterns, a free-formed chandelier and a night-sky view. Playing upon the industry’s high-tech strives, the party focused on glowing stone walls: Stone, metal, air and earth were each paid generous attention, serving as the event’s focal point and frame alike.

The Weinstein Company and Netflix Golden Globes Party

Finally, we feel it’s important to pay homage to Best Events—which crafted a fine-detail environment packed with dramatic drapery, skylight greenery and beautiful chandeliers. What began as an initiative to block out nearby construction sights became a full-fledged, immersive environment. Best Events assisted the Weinstein Company, serving craft cocktails at chocolate bars. Best Events, here, targeted a mixture of modern lounge and art deco. Maintaining a neutral color palette and luxury accents, it succeeded in creating a “space between spaces”

The Golden Globes were wild. The target of W magazine, anniversaries and marketing initiatives, the Golden Globes existed as a high-energy fair of intrigue. Sometimes, it’s best to party. Often, event marketing innovation can be found in celebrations of entertainment. Temporary spaces are unique, and they’re certainly worthy study material. The Golden Globes were hot, packed with gold-blocked bars, red carpets and celeb appearances. At the end of the day, art and culture are one in the same.

What to Expect: Event Marketing Trends for the 2017 Super Bowl

Every year, the Super Bowl yields a wealth of advertisement opportunities. As one of America’s most televised events, it’s a great venue for TV campaigns, significant brand moves and digital ad support. Today, the event’s latest news hits, advertisements and brand moves govern new event trends. The Super Bowl might be a televised event, but its ramifications are huge. Below, we’re covering the five biggest, baddest event marketing trends likely to spawn from the 2017 Super Bowl. Consume with caution, as they’re certainly unstoppable.

One: Blackjack

The Elevate Management Group, Dr. Quang & Staci, Wade Smith and Henderson are teaming up, and they’re getting ready to power the massive elite event during 2017’s biggest game. Featuring a Casino-Royale-esque style of play, the Bulls & Blackjack event will be a celeb-fueled tournament guaranteed to drive poker players wild. Get ready for a mad dash to poker-centric marketing events. More interestingly: Get ready for charity-funded gaming.

Two: Recycling

The Recycling Rally kicks off on January 21. While other exciting events, big milestones and multifaceted marketing initiatives are festival-centric, the Recycling Rally serves as a multi-day party to benefit those in need while promoting big-name brands. Another community-centric event, the Recycling Rally is expected to spawn a wealth of communal events in 2017.

Three: Leather

Leather & Laces, to be exact. 2017’s longest-running Super Bowl party is back, and it’s likely to be the hottest place around. Focusing on chic attire, open bars and premium drinks, Leather & Laces constantly promotes glamorous marketing events focused on, well, the love of being alive. Hand-rolled Sushi, hors d'oeuvres and other great selections constantly spawn food-centric marketing initiatives, so be on the lookout.

Four: Fine Cuisine

Where food, itself, is considered, The Taste of the NFL is expected—yet again—to promote fine cuisine marketing initiatives. Take part in a silent auction, experience sports memorabilia and get ready for a general sweep of sports-dining-related marketing initiatives. We’re thinking dine-in-with-player events, coach cookouts and team-centric restaurant partnerships, on this one.

Five: Football Teams

To push the buck further, actual football teams are expected to stand out, this year. The NFL Experience Driven by Genesis is the Super Bowl’s addition to big-scale parties. Presented through Visa, the event’s sessions will bring player-and-attendee interactions to life. Every year, autograph sessions propel football team walks, bee-powered meet-ups and in-depth player sessions.

So, where’ll you be? As a marketer, a promoter, a PR guru or as a future entrepreneur, it’s your job to attend these events. Give them a whirl, and find out what consumers will navigate to, next. There’s plenty of merchandise, social media access and youth football clinics to go around.

The Roadhouse: How State Farm Tailgates with Style

State Farm initiated its RoadHouse mobile tour, and it was awesome. The brand’s jam-packed initiatives, in the past, have been met with praise. Now, it’s multi-tiered engagement strategy is targeting audiences in the best way possible: Via an all-access, digitized mobile tour.  

This Tiny House Made a Big Impact

State Farm’s physical manifestation of marketing prowess combined both auto insurance and home coverage. The “tiny house,” as it was called, offered real-time activation processes utilizing the #Trouse and #Housegating Twitter prompts. While “small,” the house still made an awesome impact.

Situated on the back of a 15-foot Ford F350 Dually, the tiny house benefited from the grit, glamor and splendor only a pickup truck can provide. Tailgaters, of course, were the target audience. NFL games, every football season, flock to the most energized ride around. This year, it belonged to State Farm.

A Digital Game Day Experience

State Farm’s plan included a portable, digital game day presentation. Any fans who loved their games, had big-screen televisions and prioritized “housegating,” as State Farm called it, could enjoy the splendor from their living rooms. The program, which kicked off on September 11, took place at the Lucas Oil Stadium.

The Remote-Powered House

The tiny house, itself, welcomed consumers via a real front door. Its chimney—yes, digitally triggered—belched smoke from an attached smokestack. The house’s interior features, meanwhile, included a smart TV, a stone-accented wall, a multitude of broadcasts and a variety of sports artifacts.

The house had a backyard, too, which welcomed attendees with a low-pressure, all-fun environment. Corn hole was there, as were fan engagement activities. State Farm promoted its Housegating Playbook, which offered instructions for in-depth game-day experience creation.

This highly unique angle gave event-goers the ability to impact the world. Sure, the 360-degree RoadHouse video feature was cool, but State Farm’s best performance surrounded its hosted media outlets, Facebook Live options and fantasy football fan support.

Engagement on the Digital Forefront

As if that wasn’t enough, State Farm additionally offered live Q&A segments—filmed on-site—to promote lineup changes. Already, the State Farm RoadHouse display has been a big hit on Facebook. It’s garnered over 15,500 consumers, 33.6 thousand Facebook video views and massive applause across Instagram and Twitter.

The program’s outreach is incredible. From an experiential marketing standpoint, few locations are better than a good, old-fashioned outback grill segment. State Farm’s message extends well beyond the game-day experience, too. Now, managers and sponsorships have a tighter grasp upon the State Farm priority. At the end of the day, the fans come first. Check out State Farm’s YouTube video on the RoadHouse’s creation, and stay tuned for more great events.