How to Wow People with a Vegan Menu

If you're going to be serving food at your event, it's important to choose menu items that everyone can and will eat. This will be hard if you try to make a different menu for all of the many common dietary variations. Instead, try combining gluten-free and vegan to create dishes that almost everyone will love. One of the most important things you'll need to keep in mind is the difference between vegetarian and vegan. Vegetarian dishes may include eggs, milk, and other products that ultimately come from animals. Vegan food, on the other hand, includes none of that. Only plants and plant products are allowed.

Choosing the Menu Items

The key to wowing a mixed-preference audience with vegan dishes is to avoid the bland, diet-type fare non-vegans often associate with this type of food. Instead, make sure the meals are tasty. Hire caterers that use spices and sauces liberally to pump up the flavor volume and add delicious-looking color to the dishes. Also, make sure that your catering company is used to cooking for vegans. Such companies will have plenty of delicious recipes already developed.

If You Can Field Two Menus, Offer Both Meat and Meat-Free Options

When you're providing lunch, meat-eaters likely won't be too put out if they don't get any meat in the meal. The same cannot be said of dinner. Unless your company gets marketing points from going all-vegan, offer a meat-included menu for this meal along with the vegan one. Note, however, that some vegans insist that their food be cooked in different areas than those used to cook meat! Fortunately, there are some caterers out there that will actually cater to even this demand.

Always Remember the Possibility of Allergies

The days when you could just serve a mystery sauce or meal are over. For reasons that are not quite understood, the incidence of life-threatening food allergies is higher than it was just 30 or 40 years ago. Therefore, you should always list potential food allergens. It's also important to know for certain exactly what is in everything, vegan or not.

This isn't to say that it's dangerous to serve meals. You simply need to know what is in all of the food so you and your staff can give accurate answers to those who ask about the ingredients.

With these things in mind, you'll be able to serve anything from a snack to a feast and have it be both safe and impressive. The final thing you'll need is a venue. If your event is in Miami, try our event and exhibition area here at Soho Studios. We offer up to 70,000 square feet that can be configured to meet all of your event needs.

EverBlock: Bringing Dreams to Reality

Every kid has dreamed of being able to get life-sized LEGO that can be used for real buildings. Now, thanks to EverBlock, this concept has become a reality. EverBlock makes what is generically known as "modular building blocks." Each one is approximately the size of a concrete block, but with some very important differences: They're made of light concrete, and they're as easy to put together as the toy versions. This development is revolutionizing the events industry since it allows organizers to construct and take down displays within hours, while making the same sort of displays with the same sturdiness would ordinarily take days. Not only that, the blocks can be used over and over again - a feature that saves organizers thousands of dollars over time.

In a recent video, EverBlock showed how an entire "ice castle" shell can be made in just five hours by a small crew. The construction itself became part of the experience for those who saw it going up, and passers-by were taking selfies with the work-in-progress before they even knew what the finished project would be. Once the castle was fully up, it attracted even more attention.

Making Your Own Displays Pop

While speedy setup and take-down are important, the most important aspect of any display is its eye-catching creativity. Using these blocks makes it easy to bring almost any idea into 3D reality. As with toy building blocks, the first step is to plan out the design. This way, you know you'll have enough blocks in all of the right colors. Do this far enough before the show to allow you to buy any more that you might need – you'd hate to run out and have a big gap in your construct come showtime!

Then, you need a large enough space to put up your planned set. This is where venues like ours here at Soho Studios in Miami come in. While a block structure can be set up outdoors, you'll most likely want to have it inside instead. An indoor location makes your event immune to bad weather, greatly reduces the chance of vandalism, and extends the potential viewing hours in the day.

Other Uses for Modular Blocks

Many exhibits are divided into separate areas to allow for different themes, help guide people through in specific patterns, and similar reasons. Modular building blocks are great for erecting temporary walls that look professional and are sturdier than the normal thin partitions. They also come in many colors, so you can easily stick to a theme or mix them up for a fun look.

When it's time for you to have an exhibit in Miami, contact us here at Soho Studios. Our 70,000 sq. ft. venue can be divided up to meet the needs of almost any size of show.

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.

Join Marshmello and Friends Live at Soho Studios!

The Miami area is always a great place to have some fun, and the upcoming Marshmello and Friends concert at Soho Studios is one terrific example of what the city has to offer. This energetic performer always gives the crowds what they want, while putting on one heck of a magical mystery show. You will definitely want to come over to Soho Studios on March 22, 2017 to catch this unique show. Really, you've never seen anything like it, and it's something you won't forget any time soon. If you are already familiar with Marshmello's performances, then you have an idea of what to expect, and a good reason to get excited. If you're new to this creative entertainer's engaging performances, you're in for a real treat.

For those who aren't familiar with Marshmello, get ready to be amazed. You see, the identity of the performer known as Marshmello is unknown. That's right. He performs for crowds of thousands, but no one knows who he really is. He keeps his identity carefully hidden under a smiling white marshmallow mask and signature long-sleeved white t-shirt. Legend says Marshmello is really DJ Chris Comstock, who also goes by the name Dotcom; this suggestion is largely based on their similar tattoos and music styles. Still, no one knows for sure except Marshmello himself and his closest friends and co-performers.

Marshmello first appeared on the popular music scene on March 3, 2015, when he posted a song called WaVeZ on SoundCloud. He began to release more songs on SoundCloud, and, as he did so, he gathered support from well-known DJs like Skrillex. These famous DJs helped the enigmatic Marshmello become even more famous by reposting his songs on their own SoundCloud pages.

Eventually, Marshmello became well known enough to release an album, which he did on January 8, 2016. The album, called Joytime, had ten tracks on it, and was produced by his own label, Joytime Collective. The album hit the top of the iTunes electronic albums chart the day he released it.

This intriguing performer does remixes of the songs of other artists, as well as his own original music. His style is heavy on electronic dance music with strong bass lines, with elements of groove-oriented synth. During the course of his brand new career, Marshmello has already performed at such prestigious locations as Pier 94 in New York, the HARD Day of the Dead festival in California, and Miami's own Music Week.

We know you will love your night out at Soho Studios to immerse yourself in Marshmello's uplifting, danceable show.  This is one show you've got to see to believe.  Make sure to get your tickets so you don't miss a great time in Miami on March 22.  Tickets go on sale TODAY, February 13, 2017!  Click here to get yours!

When Birds in the Backyard Turn into Art

What could be better than a purist approach to event marketing art?  This year’s YoungArts Foundation Gala experienced a slew of action-paced, eloquent and fascinating displays.  The event’s figurehead, highlighted by the Max Mara logo, was incredibly flexible. That said, the Italian luxury brand was only the show’s opening act. Dubbed the 2017 YoungArts Backyard Ball, the Gala far exceeded other, run-of-the-mill charity promotions.

The Backyard Ball

On January 14, 2017, the National YoungArts Foundation posted up in Miami, delivering its annual extravaganza to support the nation’s future artists. While recognizing the year’s talent, the Gala assisted this year’s 691-bodied audience of YoungArts Winners. The event supplied explorative music, awesome additions and amazing contributions to art, including jazz pianist Jason Moran, choreographer Jessica Lang and Max Mara’s north American retailer, Maria Giulia Maramotti.

The Birds

Among the artistic display showcases was an interesting assortment of origami birds. The event’s origami theme, incredibly varied, included many nods to the ancient arts of paper folding—such as abstract bird shapes. The stage’s backdrop was lit, the birds were folded and a dulcet purple framed the entire scene.

The Gala’s graphic cover design reflected this display, revealing different handcrafted art designs, origami’s geometric nature and a variety of event inclusions. Meanwhile, the event’s ceiling origami installation captured nature with hundreds of suspended paper butterflies. All around, floating origami animals impacted the space.

Success and the Prevalence of Art

The evening raised over $1.5 million to support YoungArts establishments, initiatives and programs in Miami, Los Angeles, New York and Washington D.C. The event’s aspiring artists—along with those abroad—were given extraordinary, life-changing opportunities to connect with their field’s leading impactors. The presence of public-presented work, a nod to tradition and the collaboration of different disciplines, together, made the Backyard Ball stand apart.

The event’s guests, of course, applauded the winners of the National YoungArts Week—which occurred between January 8 and 15. In the world of art, a little experiential marketing goes a long way. Origami birds, the presentation’s frame—in a sense—highlighted the gala's freedom, creativity and curiosity. Sometimes, event displays needn’t be expensive. Sometimes, trending, fun and unique event inclusions can be as pure as the message they’re relaying. In the world of charity promotion, event marketers have a lot of options. The National YoungArts Week presented a unique opportunity, too, which was categorized by a celebration of all things art. Minimalism still works, and events are still using it as an effective presentation too.

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.