Event Production

From Emerald City to Center Stage: Lessons in Audio/Visual Brilliance from the New Wicked Movie

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

The new Wicked movie has captivated audiences before it even hit the big screen, thanks to its dazzling visual effects and unforgettable soundtrack. It’s a masterclass in the art of storytelling through sound and visuals—something that every event planner can leverage to elevate their live events. Let’s break down how Wicked wows and how you can use the same AV magic to elevate your next event.

Wicked

The Wicked Formula: Immersive Storytelling Through AV

If Wicked is the yellow brick road leading us to the immersive world of the audio/visual experience, then we can’t underestimate how important implementing these not so simple elements are to storytelling. Take color, for example. The Wicked team didn’t just use it—they weaponized it. Marketing teams spent millions painting audiences into “Team Glinda” (soft pink pastels) or “Team Elphaba” (deep, dramatic greens). Before they even spoke, the colors told us how to feel: pink equals light and whimsical; green equals dark and defiant.

We see the same power of color in live events. For instance, at a gala supporting children’s charities, we used playful greens, purples, and pinks—almost like brushstrokes of wonder—to evoke a sense of childhood magic. For a veteran’s fundraiser, we leaned into patriotic red, white, and blue, creating a deep connection to honor and service. The color story you choose can shape how your attendees feel from the moment they step in. It’s not just lighting; it’s storytelling.

And unless you’re throwing a mid-summer Christmas in July party (hey, no judgment), you wouldn’t fill a room with reds and greens. The right palette sets the right tone—whether it’s cozy and nostalgic or sleek and futuristic.

Audio Magic: Making the Music Resonate

From rich colors to even richer vocals, Wicked didn’t skip a beat. Let’s face it, Wicked is well known for its incredible storytelling through BIG songs and even bigger vocals. The movie’s soaring vocals and powerful songs pull us into the characters’ worlds. Tell me you didn’t feel deeply connected to Elphaba when she pours her heart into Defying Gravity as she flies through the air on a broomstick for the first time. And Glinda’s “Popular”? Instant nostalgia for anyone who’s ever wanted to fit in. There’s a reason why streams of the Wicked Official Playlist on Spotify grew 3,460% globally between November 22 and 24. People left the theater feeling something, and better yet, they didn’t want to stop feeling it.

The same goes for your event. Crisp, balanced audio is essential for keeping your audience captivated. Your keynote speaker is your Glinda or Elphaba, and their words need to land perfectly with the crowd. Whether it’s a heartfelt mission statement or an energizing call-to-action, sound makes the emotional connection. 

Even transitions matter! A great soundtrack can set the mood between speakers. For example, you probably wouldn’t be playing Celine Dion’s “I Will Always Love You” after the introduction to a sales kickoff. You want attendees to feel excited, energized, and focused. Not tearful and sad. It’s all about finding the right vibe to match the moment. And if you’ve got live music? Even better! Our job is to make sure the instruments don’t overpower the vocalist while also making sure you can feel the music from every seat in the house.

Visual Splendor: Creating a World Through Design

Wicked did an A+ job of creating a new “world” in every set they designed. From the little mushroom huts surrounded by whimsical tulip fields in Munchkin Land to the glitzy green and black, marbled Emerald City. Every set creates a mood that pulls you deeper into the story. Taking you from the warm, carefree embrace of a land full of adorable munchkins, to the cold, shiny, sophisticated city of Oz. 

An event space does the same thing for attendees. Lighting, video walls, and stage design at events can create a similarly impactful “wow” factor. One of our favorite projects was a farewell party for an airplane model, held in a hangar. We turned the plane into the centerpiece and projected visuals onto a screen shaped like a tail fin. Attendees felt like they were stepping into a real-life Top Gun scene!

Delta Wicked Blog

Takeaways for Event Planners

So how can you, as an event planner, bring Wicked-level AV magic to your event? Here’s how:

  1. Invest in sound and lighting. Work with an AV partner who knows their stuff and has the tools to bring your vision to life.
  2. Make sure your AV partner has trusted technicians. AV techs can save you from mic malfunctions and awkward pauses—things that can derail an otherwise great presentation.
  3. Think big. Ask yourself, “How can I turn this event into an immersive world?” Then let us help you build it.


Just as the Wicked movie promises to enchant audiences with its audio-visual brilliance, live events have the power to create lasting impressions when AV is done right. Whether you’re planning a conference, gala, or product launch, let us help you create your own “Emerald City” experience.


Ready to create a show-stopping event? Contact us today to learn how our AV expertise can make your event unforgettable.

To explore our work and the immersive experiences we’ve created, visit our website.

Sources

Gustavus Adolphus College Nobel Conference 2024

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

On October 1-2, 2024, Heroic Productions had the honor of teaming up once again with Gustavus Adolphus College for their annual Nobel Conference. Celebrating its 60th year, this year’s event was all about Sleep. “Sleep, Unraveled” brought together an interdisciplinary panel of experts to explore the vital role of sleep in both physical health and mental well-being. From the science behind our dreams, to the cultural shifts in sleep habits, and even the effects of our 24/7 lifestyle, the conference tackled it all.

Nobel Conference

With seven impressive keynote speakers and engaging panel discussions, Heroic had plenty to keep us on our toes. Our mission? Make sure these brilliant minds were seen and heard loud and clear—and do it all in a new location! This year, we took on the challenge of transforming the school’s chapel into the perfect setting, rather than the usual hockey arena.

Nobel Conference

Transforming Nobel Conference 60

How’d we do it, you ask? We swapped out the usual four-screen setup for a sleek 45×10’ curved LED wall. The massive LED certainly stole the show this year. This upgrade gave every guest in the chapel a crystal-clear view and provided a stunning, life-sized backdrop for the speakers’ presentations. We also streamed the event live with a two-camera setup, making sure our virtual audience didn’t miss a single moment.

To keep the spotlight on what mattered most—the speakers—we designed the perfect lighting setup. The key was to highlight the speakers, not only for the room, but more importantly for the cameras. The podium was mic’d for clarity, and we made sure the panelists were heard loud and clear during Q&A sessions. Whether in-person or online, our goal was simple: make sure every message was delivered flawlessly.

nobel conference

Until Next Year

In the end, the 60th Nobel Conference was a celebration of knowledge, innovation, and, of course, the power of sleep! From transforming a chapel into an engaging event space to ensuring every presentation was heard loud and clear, Heroic Productions was proud to help bring this important conversation to life. We’re already looking forward to the next opportunity to create an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s on a new stage, in a new space, or with another inspiring topic, we’re up for the challenge. Until then, here’s to a good night’s sleep—and the science behind it!

To see how Heroic can help you transform your next event, contact us.


Check out more of Heroic’s work from this event here.

A Show Caller’s Take on Events with JP Porter

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

At Heroic Productions, we recently had the pleasure of hosting Show Caller and Stage Manager JP Porter on the Please Welcome Live show. With nearly four decades in the industry, her insights are invaluable. After our conversation, we had even more questions about the evolving landscape of event production.

JP began her career in the ’80s as an A/V Producer during the “do everything” era. She handled photography, video shooting, audio recording, and editing, which fostered a deep understanding of each crew member’s role. From experience, we can tell you that JP is a powerhouse in events, and we frequently have the privilege of working with her.

JP PORTER on Please Welcome

Client Preparation

“Rehearsals aren’t just for the presenters—they’re for the crew, too,” JP emphasizes. “We can’t support your vision if we’re not in on it.” This highlights a crucial aspect of live event production: teamwork. When presenters shine on stage, it’s because a dedicated crew is behind the scenes, making everything work seamlessly. However, not every client arrives fully prepared. JP explains, “It’s our job to help them and protect them from mistakes we’ve seen before.”

Effective preparation includes cue-to-cues, allowing the crew to rehearse before and after the executives step on stage. “We’re perfectionists, sometimes even more than the client,” JP notes, highlighting the importance of thorough preparation, especially when significant budgets are on the line.

As rehearsals become less frequent due to busy schedules, JP warns, “The most expensive time spent is in the ballroom. If you wait to prepare until you get there, the chances of your show not going as planned are very high.”

Ultimately, success comes down to a mindset shift. With hectic schedules, it’s easy to think, “I don’t have time to rehearse.” But JP stresses the importance of planning ahead and ironing out any issues early on.

The Weight of Preparation: Setting the Stage for Success

“As the person responsible for the show’s success, preparation is how I hold up my end of the deal,” JP states. Preparation for her requires laser focus. “I try to know everything about the show before I get there,” so she can guide the team effectively.

While event planning can span months, JP often has just one day to learn the entire show. “It feels like drinking from a firehose,” she says. Gathering details about slides, videos, and scripts is crucial. She collaborates with the technical director and team members to understand their needs and equipment.

Once she has all the information, she builds cue sheets—the “bible” of the show. “If I don’t have complete information, it ripples to the crew. They’re listening to me for direction,” she explains.

The Art of Show Calling: Precision, Preparation, and Clear Communication

JP shares a memorable experience: “I once called a show from nothing but post-it notes. It was the hardest show I’ve ever done.” Knowing who goes on stage is one thing; mastering the transitions is what makes or breaks an event. Last-minute changes can throw everything off balance.

Step 1: Paper-Tech

Once the room is set, JP conducts a “paper-tech” session. “We sit together and hear everything at once, fostering teamwork.” The session covers who the client is and their expectations before diving into details. “The crew just wants clear direction,” she notes.

Afterward, each crew member goes to their station to run through the show. “If we jump straight to having the client there without rehearsal, we’re not prepared. That’s when the client starts to lose faith in us.”

Step 2: Onstage Rehearsals

Next, the client joins for onstage rehearsals. “This is where we strengthen the trust rope. They need to know we have their back.”

Step 3: Cue-to-Cues

After the client leaves, the crew runs through “cue-to-cues.” Repeating these sequences before leaving for the day and again in the morning keeps everyone sharp and ensures the equipment is working properly.

Stand By and Go: The Role of the Show Caller

Being a show caller involves guiding the crew through complex sequences. “I tell them to STAND BY and what to expect when I say GO. My job is to lead them to success with clear communication.”

JP maintains focus on multiple tasks at once, from managing camera shots to reading scripts. Her cue sheets are detailed, with notes for each department. “I always leave a paper trail in case something happens to me before the show.”

The Show Must Go On

In her long career, JP has only missed one show. “I got sick between waves of the same event, but thanks to clear communication and cue sheets, the crew could carry on without me.”

The State of Live Event Production

Reflecting on the industry, JP shares several key observations and takeaways:

  • Preparation Gaps Since COVID: “Fewer people realize the need to prepare, creating a gap in mentorship and experience.”
  • Lack of Information in Advance: “I don’t receive enough details to prepare effectively. It feels like steering a ship without a map.”
  • Decline in Curiosity: “Not enough people are eager to learn. The most successful ones are the ones who act like sponges.”
  • Loss of ‘White Space’: “We’ve lost the time to digest and ponder. That space for reflection is critical.”
  • Nerves Are a Good Sign: “If you aren’t a little nervous, you won’t perform at your best. That edge keeps you sharp.”
  • Challenges of Being the ‘Hired Voice’: “Coming in as the ‘hired voice’ is tough because I don’t know the crew’s skill levels or who needs more guidance.”
  • The Military Parallel: “Our business is like the military—there’s a leader (the show caller) and a crew. We all face the same direction, united in our goal of success.”

JP’s insights remind us that preparation, communication, and collaboration are key to a successful event. With her experience and passion, she continues to be a guiding force in the ever-evolving world of live production.

If you would like to see what Heroic Productions can do for your next event, contact us.

To watch JP Porter’s episode of Please Welcome, visit our Please Welcome page or tune in on Spotify.

Heroic Productions and the Commencement Trinity

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

The end of May and the start of June is a magical time for students and the team at Heroic Productions alike! We had the honor of bringing our AV production expertise to several commencements. Milestone moments like commencement should be unforgettable, and top-notch AV is essential to making them truly special. This is where Heroic shines—ensuring that every graduate’s loved ones can see, hear, and feel the excitement. Take a look at our work for the College of St. Benedict, Gustavus Adolphus College, and The Blake School commencements.

College of St. Benedict Commencement

First up in May, we journeyed to St. Joseph, MN, for the College of St. Benedict Commencement. Held in the Clemens Field House, this event celebrated 344 undergraduates and 14 master’s and doctorate degrees. Heroic Productions transformed the dark field house into a vibrant celebration space with an extensive lighting package. Our stage wash effectively highlighted the commencement address and each student as they accepted their diplomas. Additionally, we provided processional and banner lighting, adding a touch of elegance to the proceedings. To ensure crystal-clear audio, we deployed a full line array audio package that covered the presenters, the band, and some special songs performed by senior choir members. The result was a truly memorable day for everyone involved.

Gustavus Adolphus College Commencement

Gustavus Adolphus College Commencement

At the end of May, Heroic headed to southern Minnesota for the Gustavus Adolphus College Commencement. This exciting event took place outdoors on Hollingworth Field, with 451 graduates seated on the turf in front of a grand stage. Our mission was to ensure that every word from the presenters, every note from the band, and every song from the choir were heard loud and clear throughout the entire football stadium. Utilizing our full line array audio package, we achieved perfect audibility for every speech and song, making the celebration truly unforgettable.

The Blake School Commencement

The Blake School Commencement

The beginning of June kept us busy in the Twin Cities for The Blake School Commencement. This multi-day event took place in the historic Blake School Ice Arena, a barrel vault ice rink that posed some fun challenges for our team—but nothing we couldn’t handle! With commencements for the elementary, middle, and senior high schools, we had to make three different celebrations shine. Our comprehensive line array audio package ensured clear sound for every presenter, band performance, and choir song. We used a stage wash for lighting to ensure our presenters looked their best, while processional and banner lighting added a dramatic effect. To enhance the experience, we incorporated video and projection, ensuring the audience didn’t miss a beat. Additionally, we recorded the event to guarantee that no friends or family missed this special day.

Partner with us for your school’s commencement. Contact us today!

Check out our “Work” page to see more of what we can offer your school.

Children’s Cancer Research Fund’s DREAM Gala 2023

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

A long-standing tradition, DREAM, is the Twin Cities’ gala benefiting CCRF. CCRF crafts this annual event with exciting experiences, inspiring stories, and fabulous food, all for a meaningful cause: to end childhood cancer.

CCRF DREAM Gala

MONUMENTAL DAYS HAPPEN BECAUSE OF NIGHTS LIKE THESE

Imagine a day with better answers for childhood brain tumors. A day when cancer doesn’t strike the same fear as it does today. A day when we look back and see all the people, funding, and trials that made significant progress possible.

A day like that will take a night like this – DREAM Gala 2023

This year, the team at CCRF selected Heroic as their trusted production partner. Our collective planning began with the vision in mind: to move and motivate people to give. As staging and audio/visual design experts, we know how we can influence that effort. It begins with designing an immersive experience that surprises and delights the attendees. We applaud the team at CCRF for selecting just the right partners for success. Working alongside our friends at Festivities, we transformed Quincy Hall (already a beautiful venue) into a fitting backdrop for engagement and giving!

CCRF DREAM Gala
CCRF DREAM Gala

CREATING MAGIC WITH CCRF: A NIGHT OF GIVING

As always, Heroic’s main focus is ensuring our clients’ key messages are seen, heard, and felt. We ensured the best visibility for the 400+ seated dinner audience by strategically placing large projection screens throughout the stage and room. The program included awards, touching stories and tributes, and the very important live auction.

After the dinner and program concluded, attendees moved into a secondary area of the venue where they enjoyed a DJ, more activations, and a few late-night bites.

Under the direction and execution of Eric Perkins, Event Host, and Kristine Fladeboe Duininck, Live Auctioneer, we are proud to report the evening raised over $660,000 for childhood brain tumor research.

If you, too, want to get involved, visit CCRF here.

BRING EVENTS TO LIFE WITH HEROIC

To see how we can make your next gala shine, contact us.

Visit our the DREAM Gala page to learn more about our partnership with CCRF.

Kitty Hart Shines on Your Brand Amplified Podcast: Inside the World of Experiential Marketing

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

Ever wondered how a brand can sweep you off your feet, creating those magical moments you just can’t stop raving about? Get ready to satisfy that curiosity as Anika Jackson dives deep into the vibrant world of experiential marketing with the amazing Kitty Hart, Heroic’s VP of Client Brand Experience on Your Brand Amplified Podcast. Together, they embark on an insightful journey through this ever-evolving landscape that’s all about captivating hearts and igniting senses.

Kitty: The Experiential Marketing Maestro

Kitty’s expertise lies in experiential marketing. “Any touchpoint we have with a customer is an experience,” Anika states wisely. Kitty sheds light on the fact that while experiential marketing isn’t new (it goes way back to the 1800s!), its importance has skyrocketed in our digital age. Despite our digital immersion, there’s an irreplaceable need for physical brand experiences. Yet, in today’s world, surprising and delighting audiences has become a delightful challenge.

Your Brand Amplified Experiential Marketing

The Evolution of Experiential Marketing

The evolution of corporate event marketing has been nothing short of fascinating, especially in our work at Heroic. From national sales meetings to incentive trips, we traverse diverse terrains. Even though our focus is often corporate, it’s crucial to remember that whether it’s business-to-business or business-to-consumer, we’re all humans seeking genuine connections. We want attendees excited about events, feeling the pulse of momentum, and leaving refreshed and more connected to the company and their goals.

How to Incorporate Experiential Marketing

Establishing a solid foundation rooted in your company’s core values is key to integrating experiential marketing. Go back to basics: What defines your brand? Who are your customers, and what drives them? Once you have these insights, let creativity soar. Collaboration across departments is vital here, and don’t let budget constraints dampen imaginative sparks! Kitty emphasizes that any brand, big or small, can weave experiential marketing magic by focusing on one sense at a time and building experiences around it.

The Hybrid Experience: Blending Physical and Virtual

Many companies now blend in-person and virtual experiences to accommodate diverse needs. Whether it’s remote employees, geographical challenges, or budget considerations, creating dual experiences has become essential. This duality necessitates crafting tailored experiences for both physical and virtual participants, ensuring everyone feels engaged and valued.

The Importance of Business Development

Kitty’s sales success stems from selling experiences that unite people and brands. Her mantra? Seeing consumers as humans first, not just potential buyers. Today’s consumers are savvy and seek authenticity over pushy sales tactics. Anika notes that, “the new equivalent of the old, pushy sales person is the LinkedIn inbox.” Building genuine relationships and leveraging referrals are key strategies. Kitty’s sales superpower? Wholeheartedly believing in what she sells. She states, “I’m just a matchmaker finding people who need what we have.”

Kitty concludes with a powerful message: let’s value the experience and wisdom of individuals, regardless of age. Women over 50 bring immense value and insight, just as 20 somethings offer fresh insights. Respect and collaboration across generations enrich our experiences and drive innovation forward.

In Conclusion: Embracing Experiential Magic

As we conclude our journey through the realm of experiential marketing with the effervescent Kitty Hart, one thing becomes abundantly clear: magic happens when brands connect with audiences on a human level. From understanding core values to crafting immersive experiences, the key lies in authenticity, creativity, and genuine connections.

To have your own conversation with the experiential marketing maestro herself, contact Kitty Hart.

To learn how to incorporate stellar audio/visual production into your next event experience, visit our website.

Kitty Hart on The Faces of Business Podcast: Creating Unforgettable Events

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

At Heroic Productions, we were fortunate to have our very own Kitty Hart, our VP of Client Brand Experience, as a guest on The Faces of Business podcast with the one and only Damon Pistulka. In this episode, Kitty takes a deep dive into the world of brand experiences, unraveling the secrets behind creating unforgettable events that truly resonate with audiences.

Kitty Hart: A Marketing Maven

Kitty isn’t just your average marketing professional; she’s a visionary with over 28 years of experience, specializing in breathing life into brands through strategic storytelling, impactful brand strategy, and innovative experience design.

The Value in Event Production

According to Kitty, her favorite part of working at Heroic is all about setting a stage and ensuring the people on stage are seen, heard, and remembered. The most thrilling moment for her team is seeing a concept evolve into a spectacular reality. It’s a journey that can take up to a year, from brainstorming ideas and creating room renderings to the actual event day. Her secret insight: being “on comm” with a headset during an event is the key to understanding all the behind-the-scenes magic that goes into producing these top-notch events.

At Heroic, our mission is crystal clear: our client is the hero. We’re not here to take the spotlight; we’re here to ensure our clients shine. Our happiness stems from their satisfaction. It’s essential for our customers to select a production partner who can execute flawlessly and be the expert in stage design, audio, and lighting. So when that speaker steps onto the stage, they don’t have to worry about technical glitches or whether the audience can see and hear them.

Kitty explains how some of our events span several days, which means our team needs lots of stamina. Consequently, staffing and crew management play pivotal roles in ensuring everything runs smoothly.

The Faces of Business Featuring Kitty Hart and Events

What Sets Events Apart?

“It drives a constant focus on creativity,” Kitty emphasizes. Many of our clients host the same event year after year, and they’re eager to keep things fresh. They often draw inspiration from outside their industry to inject new life into their corporate events, especially considering that the current workforce spans four different generations.

Kitty’s personal favorites are events that incorporate music and impactful lighting. “Surprising and delighting people is becoming increasingly challenging,” she notes. Beyond visuals, the choice of speakers and entertainment plays a substantial role. Transforming a simple ballroom into a rockstar experience is no small feat. When you can infuse as many of the senses into an experience, the more impactful that experience becomes. “It’s the senses that drive our memories,” Kitty notes.

Additionally, she goes on to mention a baseball stadium that pumps the smell of cotton candy into their stadium! Using scent to elicit the feeling of hunger and nostalgia. 

Challenges in Events

Damon inquires about the most challenging event Kitty has ever been a part of. She recalls an event for a beauty brand Heroic worked on. It spanned multiple days, with exceedingly high expectations, especially for the staging. It was a haircare product, and the main event was a fashion show. The event was one of our larger projects, demanding long and high-energy days. Our team was a part of keeping that energy high.

Education, entertainment, and networking are the key components to corporate events. With consumer brands, getting products into people’s hands to sample is a big part of it. For B2B clients, it’s about designing an engaging experience that goes beyond traditional PowerPoint presentations. Recreational time for attendees is undoubtably crucial for maintaining attention spans.

Success!

When asked about success, Kitty reflects on Super Bowl 52 event hosted on Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis. Our crew endured long days in subzero temperatures, but the event was nothing short of amazing. Over a million people flocked to Minneapolis for the Super Bowl festivities. Being part of such a remarkable event in our hometown was truly life-changing.

What’s Next for Events?

What’s next for event production? For Heroic, we’re keeping a watchful eye on AI, and we’ve also got our hands on the new Proto Epic hologram machine!

As Kitty and Heroic look to the future, one thing remains constant: our unwavering commitment to making every event exceptional. So, whether you’re hosting a corporate extravaganza or a show-stopping product launch, you can count on Heroic Productions to be the secret ingredient that transforms ordinary into extraordinary.

Stay up-to-date on what’s next in event tech with our latest blog post.

To get in touch with Heroic for your next unforgettable event, contact us.

The Future of Event Tech

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

If you’re in the events industry, you know that event technology is the heartbeat of every conversation. But let’s not just have tech in the room; let’s make it dance! Embracing both form and function is the key. Wondering how to infuse that tech magic into your event? Well, the experts have some playful and futuristic ideas for you!

Lit Check-ins: Sparking Event Excitement with LED Welcome Bliss!

Why shouldn’t you shock attendees right from the jump? Try surprising and delighting with an LED check-in table! However, it’s not just for check-ins; turn it into your bar or silent auction showcase. With LED panels there are limitless design possibilities, from colors to flashy designs, you can truly make it your own.

Starlux Arbors and Archways new in event tech

Arching into the Future: LED Arbors Steal the Spotlight!

Archways and arbors are classic, but here’s a twist – LED archways and arbors have just stepped into the spotlight! Perfect for speakers, panelists, and, of course, selfies and step-and-repeats. Light up your event with this new tech, making it a focal point that shines.

See-Through Event Tech Magic: Samsung’s Transparent MicroLED Screen Unveiled!

Transparent LED screens have been around, but Samsung just dropped a bomb – a new transparent microLED screen! Display content on a transparent background up close, creating a 3D, hologram effect. With higher brightness and less impact from ambient light than traditional OLED panels, it’s a game-changer.

#EventGoals: Infusing Social Media Buzz with Interactive Hashtags!

How about making your attendees the stars of the show? Create a catchy event hashtag and display social media content on the screen. Bring up attendees’ videos and images, keeping the energy high and interactions buzzing throughout your event.

Elevate Your View: Trolley Cameras for Capturing Event Awesomeness!

Capture the magic from above! Cameras and GoPros on trolleys overhead your venue are the latest craze. Perfect for marketing and pre-planning, these cameras capture the entire room, giving you a comprehensive view of the entire venue and event!

Event Tech Pro Tip…

Now, here’s a pro tip: while new tech is a blast, make sure you’ve got a solid AV company by your side. Chat with them before you book a venue. They’ll guide you based on your vision and help infuse the right tech to bring that vision to life. Happy event planning! 

To help infuse the best tech into your next event, contact us.
To learn more about Heroic’s newest technology offering, visit this blog.

Heroic Productions Spends a Day at Raise + Arrange 2024

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

Picture this: a chilly January 18, and the Heroic Productions squad descended upon Glasshouse in Minneapolis for the stellar Raise + Arrange 2024 event hosted by Do Good Events. Our CEO, Account Manager, and Marketing maestro joined forces with 80 other event enthusiasts for the afternoon, turning a frosty day into an epic experience.

The theme of this event was “Back to the Future of Events.” The venue transformed into a neon dreamland, with vibrant pinks and purples filling the space. The eye catcher? An LED check in desk courtesy of Full Swing Productions! The festivities kicked off with networking, delectable charcuterie from Chowgirls, and Kombucha sampling thanks to J’s Kombucha. Even Minneapolis local Surley Brewing Co. showed up with some swag and giveaways for attendees.

As the clock struck 1:30 p.m. everyone took their seats at round tables to get cozy with other event wizards. Once our table got acquainted with each other, the conference kicked off. In three hours, this event packed in a treasure trove of knowledge.

Raise + Arrange 2024 with Heroic Productions

Build a Million Dollar Fundraising Event

First up was Fundraising: Building a Million Dollar Event. Two members of The University of Minnesota Foundation, Nick Engbloom and Brittany Minke, took the stage to give us their genius tips for building a million dollar fundraising event. From building strong donor relationships to slightly altering ticket prices, these panelists were filled with a myriad of brilliant ideas!

PR/Marketing for Your Next Event

Next in line was PR/Marketing: Tips and Tricks, which included panelist Ben Theis, CEO of Skol Marketing. The hot topic – trying to bridge the data gap between offline and online marketing. The advice? Continue to mix traditional and digital marketing like a blender. Bring both to the table for conversation. Our pro tip takeaway: create/purchase a separate URL or domain for your event attendees. This way you can directly link web traffic to specific events. Genius, right?

Let Tech Bring You Into The Future

Cue drumroll for The Future of Event Tech, Heroic’s sweet spot! Ed Raeker, the brain behind Starlux, a new tech startup, wowed us with LED archways that can transform your event with illuminated geometric designs. Did we mention the LED check-in desk? Impressive stuff!

The New Age of Mobile Bidding

Then, it was time for mobile bidding, brought to you by the day’s sponsors, OneCause and Auction & Event Solutions. They make bidding and collecting donations a breeze, ensuring your fundraising event is smoother than a well-choreographed dance.

“Fundraise Awesomer” with Patrick Kirby

Donors, Sponsors… and Everything Else! Enter Patrick Kirby, Keynote Speaker, Author, and Founder of Do Good Better Consulting. He hit the stage with contagious energy, reminding us that it’s the little things—like engaging your donors—that truly elevate fundraising events to awesomeness.

The Alignment of Past, Present, and Future

Last but certainly not least, the sensational Heather Boll took us on a journey with Learning from the Past, Living for the Present, Planning for the Future. Heather left us with pearls of wisdom and the courage to conquer the year ahead.

The Raise + Arrange 2024 day wrapped up with a networking happy hour, courtesy of the delightful Brasa Rotisserie. As we indulged in Brasa delights, sipped our drinks, and mingled with fellow event enthusiasts, we left with newfound knowledge and friendships. What a day!

To learn more about what’s new in event tech, visit our blog.

To see what Heroic Productions can do for you, contact us.

Marketers’ Community at Heroic Productions for Transformation Talks: Creating Authenticity, Purpose & Fulfillment in Your Career

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

On a frigid January 16 afternoon, Heroic Productions lit up STUDIO15 with the warmth of Marketers’ Community. This time taking the stage was Marketers’ Community founder, Laura King, with a keynote on creating authenticity, purpose and fulfillment in your career.

As 100 marketers filed in from the cold, they were met with light bites and refreshments including an NA bar dedicated to Zero Proof Collective and cofounder Jen Gilhoi. Flavorful NA beer and wine options for dry January? Count us in! Marketers drank and were merry as they networked with their fellow mavens at Heroic branded cases that were converted into makeshift cocktail tables! Inventive? We thought so!

Eager to get started, the crowd was ushered into STUDIO15 for the main event. As they entered to take their seats, they were met with an enveloping sea of gorgeous blue and green illumination. Then, the anticipation soared as Kitty Hart took the stage to introduce Heroic, followed by the excited Abby Kelsey introducing Marketers’ Community and Laura King.

Marketers' Community in at Heroic Productions for Pursuing Your Purpose
Marketers' Community in at Heroic Productions for Pursuing Your Purpose
Marketers' Community in at Heroic Productions for Pursuing Your Purpose

How Did Laura Learn to Pursue Her Purpose?

Most of the faces in this crowd knew the illustrious Laura King, but few knew her story. She begins with a tale of the heartaches she suffered in 2023. From a stellar $900,000 sales year in 2022 to a humbling $35,000 in Q1 of 2023 – Laura had faced setbacks. Yet, in those moments of challenge, Laura found enlightenment.

Laura’s mantra? “To inspire, educate, motivate and love as many people as possible.” She reshaped her focus using three key competencies: gifts, passion, and values. But how do we grasp these? Through awareness, attitude and action. If you know your gifts, passions and values, and follow the three A’s, thus you are living in your purpose. 

However, we know this is easier said than done. Here’s a checklist to kickstart your journey:

Gifts

1. Awareness: Do you know your gifts?

2. Attitude: Do you honor your gifts?

3. Action: Are you using your gifts?

Passion

1. Awareness: Do you know your passion?

2. Attitude: Do you honor your passion?

3. Action: Are you pursuing your passion?

Values

1. Awareness: Do you know your values?

2. Attitude: Are you being honest?

3. Action: Are you living by your values?

Finally, once you understand these three competencies, evaluate what is getting in your way, and align all three – congratulations, you’re living your purpose!

The crowd broke off into groups to discuss how they can better find alignment to live in their purpose. After hearing from a few audience members, you could say the room was inspired.

Afterwards, coats were donned and the Minnesota winter beckoned, a new energy filled the air. Armed with Laura’s wisdom, marketers stepped out, ready to embrace their purpose.

Curious about how we can add a sea of color to your next event? Contact us.

Read about what event tech you could be adding to your next event here.

Heroic Productions Delivers Audiovisual to Gustavus Adolphus College’s Nobel Conference

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

On Tuesday, October 3, 2023, Heroic Productions had the sheer joy of bringing Gustavus Adolphus College’s annual Nobel Conference to life! Since 1965, the Nobel Conference has been a captivating platform, gathering leading researchers and thinkers at Gustavus to delve into groundbreaking, transformative, and urgent scientific matters, as well as the ethical questions that invariably accompany them. Over the years, many Nobel Laureates have been guest lecturers. Heroic has had the privilege of being the creative audiovisual force behind this conference for the past decade!

The Nobel Conference at Gustavus Adolphus College using Heroic Audiovisual

This year’s theme? “Insects: Little Body, Big Impact.” Our team was buzzing with anticipation as we embraced the responsibility of orchestrating the audiovisual experience, ensuring the magic unfolded right before your very eyes.

An Audiovisual Transformation

The metamorphosis occurs annually at Gustavus’s hockey arena, Lund Arena. With a fresh theme each year, our mission is to transform this space from an arena into a dynamic conference center. What makes it all the more thrilling is that this event is hybrid. This means we must craft an engaging atmosphere for both those in the room and those tuning in from the comfort of their homes via the livestream. And did we mention that this event spans two full 8 hour days?

The Nobel Conference at Gustavus Adolphus College using Heroic Audiovisual
The Nobel Conference at Gustavus Adolphus College using Heroic Audiovisual

Setting the Stage

Our incredible audiovisual crew waved their magic wands and turned an ordinary room into a captivating experience for both our in-person and online audience. We kicked things off by setting up not one, not two, but four gigantic projection screens that brought content and live footage to life. Behind the speakers and panelists, we utilized five LED towers for background. This created the perfect stage for them to shine. To make sure every angle was covered for our livestream audience, our crew decided on four cameras, ensuring that no moment was missed!

Our lighting guru, Bex, bathed the walls in exquisite shades of green and blue, mirroring the signature colors of the conference’s featured insect, the scarab beetle. Three hundred feet of Truss was installed to handle the lighting and video. 

Now, let’s talk sound. Our audio maestros were in their element, ensuring that live music, speakers, and panelists seamlessly took center stage all day long. Coordinating this auditory extravaganza was no small feat. However, they nailed it, making sure that everyone’s voice was heard exactly when it needed to be.

The Nobel Conference at Gustavus Adolphus College using Heroic Audiovisual
The Nobel Conference at Gustavus Adolphus College using Heroic Audiovisual

Lights! Camera! Action!

The event unfolded flawlessly. The presenters were exceptional, and the music was nothing short of divine. Gustavus even featured a new jazz work with dancers to lead the opening academic procession! We’re already counting down the days until the next Nobel Conference next year.

To learn more about our work, visit our website.

To see how we can help you transform your next event, contact us.

Marketers’ Community at Heroic Productions Presents Navigating Marketing Leadership in an Era of Disruption

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

Greetings, fellow marketers! On a crisp October 10th evening, Heroic Productions rolled out the red carpet to welcome the Marketers’ Community back into STUDIO15 for an event that delved deep into the intricacies of mastering chaos and navigating marketing leadership in an era of disruption. 

Once again, we joined forces with the dynamic duo, Laura King and Abby Kelsey, to bring marketers an evening they won’t soon forget.

Sip, Savor, & Socialize!

The night kicked off with a bang, or should we say, a clink of glasses. Over 65 enthusiastic marketers gathered in Heroic’s lobby for a solid hour of networking. Our bar was stocked to the brim, and we had delectable NA options thanks to the magic touch of Jen Gilhoi from Zero Proof Collective. Attendees savored delectable drinks, nibbled on scrumptious bites, and engaged in some good old-fashioned chit-chat.

In the meantime, behind the scenes, the Heroic team was busy setting the stage for an evening of important conversation. Our ripple wall was bathed in a mesmerizing blue hue, and the projection screens awash in the signature colors of Marketers’ Community.

Marketing Leadership with Marketers Community Event
Marketing Leadership with Marketers Community Event
Marketing Leadership with Marketers Community Event
Marketing Leadership with Marketers Community Event
Marketing Leadership with Marketers Community Event
Marketing Leadership with Marketers Community Event

Debbie Schwake Unveils Chaos in Marketing Leadership

Our keynote speaker, the illustrious Debbie Schwake, CMO at the Pedowitz Group, wasted no time in diving headfirst into the heart of chaos. She candidly shared her own journey navigating the turbulent waters of marketing leadership during these trying times.

Even a seasoned marketing leader like Debbie couldn’t escape the whirlwind of change sweeping through four crucial areas: generational shifts, evolving team dynamics, shifting consumer behaviors, and the transformation of leadership itself.

Four Keys to Mastering Chaos

Debbie’s wisdom? To successfully navigate this era of disruption, we need to adapt in four critical areas:

  • Generational: Get to know your audience inside out and tailor your approach to resonate with their unique generational values.
  • Team: Embrace the evolving dynamics of work and prioritize that ever-elusive work-life balance.
  • Consumer: Map and enhance customer experiences to reduce friction and emphasize impeccable service.
  • Leadership: Revamp your fundamental marketing leadership strategies and give due consideration to the impact of stress on decision-making.

Then came the interactive part! In small groups of 4-6, marketers dove deep into these four key areas. They brainstormed, shared insights, and got creative in deciphering how to chart a path through the chaos.

Insights Galore!

The feedback was nothing short of enlightening. One group pointed out the importance of catering to each generation’s unique concerns, like Gen Z’s passionate stance on climate change. Another shared a CEO’s approach to letting employees choose when and where they work, likening it to a “pick your own adventure” at work.

Consumer trust was another hot topic, exemplified by Bombas, the sock company that replaces your Bombas socks free of charge if they garner any holes.

One group highlighted the idea of leadership tailoring itself to each individual within the company and shaping the company culture around individual needs. The conversations in the room flowed with brilliant insights.

The Party Continues

As the presentation wrapped up, the energy in the room remained palpable. Marketers were buzzing with excitement, eager to continue the spirited discussions with their peers.

It was a night to remember! One of insights, connection, and ideation. Stay tuned for more fun in STUDIO15 from Heroic Productions. Until next time!

To learn more about what Heroic can do for your next event, visit our website.

Interested in learning more about STUDIO15? Reach out to our VP of Client Brand Experience, Kitty Hart, here.

Perfecting Event Logistics: A Proven Plan for Seamlessly Moving Your Event Attendees

Posted on by Heroic Guest

Moving your event attendees from one place to another to support your event’s goals and schedule can be a big challenge in event logistics, and sometimes, it feels a bit like herding cats. However, I recently attended the Raise conference hosted by OneCause in vibrant Nashville, TN, and there I had the pleasure of meeting Matt Newsom, a nationally renowned benefit auctioneer and fundraiser. In his enlightening session titled “Back to the Ballroom,” Matt shared a foolproof strategy for effortlessly guiding your event attendees between different spaces and activities. I’m excited to share Matt’s top tips, combined with my own experiences, to ensure your guests move with purpose and enthusiasm.

Mastering Event Logistics: 4 Tips for Guiding Attendees

1. The Grand Unveil: Make It Spectacular

The first trick is to turn the transition into a show-stopping event itself. Give your guests a compelling reason to want to move to the next space or activity and reveal it in a captivating way. This can be as straightforward as using dazzling lights and uplifting music, or as extravagant as having aerialists suspended from the ceiling and stilt walkers roaming the area (both of which I’ve used to great success, receiving a chorus of “oohs” and “ahhs”). Regardless of the approach, make the reveal a performance – consider stationing volunteers at all entryways to open doors in a choreographed fashion, parting curtains to unveil the next space, or using lighting to transform a dim area into a vibrant one. When done right, the transition itself becomes a form of entertainment!

Image of acrobat

2. Communication is Key (Repeat, Repeat, Repeat)

In marketing, there’s a well-known rule that people need to hear a message at least seven times before taking action. While you might not have the luxury of repeating your message seven times, use every available tool to ensure your attendees know it’s time to move. This could involve sending automated text messages to attendees, using pre-recorded Voice of God announcements, or updating screens around the venue with pre-designed slides, reminding everyone it’s time to transition and where to go. Evaluate the tools at your disposal in terms of space and technology and put them to good use!

3. Identify “Pushers” and “Pullers”

Before your event, pinpoint individuals who can help convey your message effectively. “Pushers” (often event staff or volunteers) will move through the room, politely encouraging attendees to wrap up their conversations and head to their seats or the next area. On the other hand, “pullers” will serve as in-room influencers, showing others precisely what they should do. Speak with your board, event committee, volunteers, staff, or other key leaders in advance, and ask them to watch for visual, auditory, or verbal cues. When it’s time to move, they can gather their table, friends, or other attendees and lead the way to the next location.

Image of attendees chatting

4. Timing is Everything: Closing the Bars

Closing the bars might not be the most popular move, but it can be effective when done strategically. Position a staff member or volunteer at the end of the line about 10 minutes before you intend to close the bar. Kindly direct guests trying to join the line to enjoy a cocktail, dinner, dessert, or the next exciting thing in the next space or at a designated time. When that designated person reaches the front of the line, seal the deal by physically removing the bartender from the bar.

Embrace the Fun in Event Logistics!

So, the next time you find yourself orchestrating an event and facing the logistical challenge of guiding attendees from one experience to the next, don’t dread it. Embrace it as a chance to dazzle, engage, and entertain. By following these strategies, you’ll not only keep your event on track but also turn the transition moments into unforgettable highlights of the day.

With a little creativity, a lot of communication, and the right team, you’ll not only avoid “herding cats” but will have your guests purring with delight as they smoothly flow from one memorable experience to the next. Happy herding!

This post was written by Sarah Kier, Events Manager at Children’s Cancer Research Fund.

For more event planning tips, download our Corporate Event Strategies Guide. To dive deeper into event logistics, contact us. 

What’s New in Event Technology? Innovations Piquing Our Interest

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

How can you bring the excitement to your next event using technology? Discover the latest cutting-edge innovations that can set your event apart from the rest.

Event Technology Reimagining Corporate Experiences

1. Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented reality is the rising star of event technology. It adds an interactive layer to your event, engaging attendees like never before. With their smartphones, attendees can seamlessly interact with trade show booths, branded content, and more. Whether it’s through immersive games or educational resources, AR enhances your event content and keeps attendees engaged.

Image of an augmented reality game on a smartphone.

2. Holographic Video

Holographic video is the pinnacle of event tech sophistication. Imagine showcasing your logo and products, or even bringing in a speaker from anywhere in the world in real time. Holographic video allows you to pre-record content or beam in a live presenter, creating a wow factor that will leave your audience in awe.

Image of a hologram machine with a Lion in it.

3. LED Walls

While LED walls themselves aren’t entirely new, their versatility and reinvention are making waves in the event world. Curved LED walls offer a more immersive experience with superior quality compared to traditional flat LED screens. But that’s not all! Removing LED panels from walls and creatively shaping them can breathe new life into your event. Customize LED walls to different shapes, sizes, and designs to make content more engaging and exciting.

4. Taking LED Beyond the Walls

To truly mesmerize your attendees, think outside the box (or walls). Consider wrapping an entire room in LED, creating a hypnotic and immersive atmosphere. Place LED panels on the floor to craft an LED runway or “red carpet” experience. For an up-close and personal touch, invest in LED fans to showcase content in a unique way. Mesh LED, a relatively new form of LED technology, allows you to overlay pipe and drape or create stunning see-through designs that will leave your audience in awe.

Transform Your Productions With Event Technology

The world of event technology is evolving rapidly, and these innovations are just the tip of the iceberg. To stand out in today’s competitive event landscape, embrace these cutting-edge technologies, and be prepared to push the boundaries of creativity. Your next event could be the talk of the town with the right tech in your arsenal!

Remember, the key is to enhance the attendee experience and create memorable moments that will keep them coming back for more. So, don’t hesitate to explore these new event tech horizons and elevate your events to a whole new level of excitement and engagement!

Ready to elevate your event with event technology? Reach out to Kitty Hart, Heroic’s expert in event tech innovation, and make your next event unforgettable!

To stay in the know about our latest tech-infused events, subscribe to our newsletter.

Super U Podcast: Embracing Fearlessness and Client Connection With Kitty Hart

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

In this episode of Super U Podcast, Erik Qualman, also known as “Equalman,” sits down for an enlightening conversation with Heroic Productions’ VP of Client Brand Experience, Kitty Hart. Together, they dive deep into the world of sales processes and how technology is shaping the landscape of client connection.

Super U podcast cover art

The Changing Face of Buying and Client Connection

Kitty begins by shedding light on how the art of buying has transformed since the early ’90s. Gone are the days of mass marketing; today’s consumers crave a more personalized experience. Technology has played a pivotal role in this shift. People now prefer to arm themselves with knowledge before engaging with a salesperson. Kitty emphasizes, “If you have not infused technology into your sales process, you are going to have friction, you are going to have a really hard time reaching and connecting with people.”

LinkedIn: More than a Networking Platform

Kitty stresses the significance of LinkedIn as a powerful business tool designed to foster warm client connections. It’s not just a job-hunting platform; it’s a goldmine of information and networking opportunities. Kitty’s pro tip? Personalize your LinkedIn page with something that sets you apart.

The Game Changer: Hubspot CRM

Erik asks Kitty about the biggest CRM benefit of using Hubspot. Kitty points to Hubspot’s sequences and tasks, which have revolutionized her CRM experience. These tools empower sales teams to stay engaged with potential clients while automating manual tasks, making life easier and more efficient.

The Thrill of the Corporate Event Stage

One of Kitty’s favorite aspects of her role is the sheer diversity it offers. Heroic Productions specializes in corporate events that are nothing short of full-scale productions. The creative and theatrical elements of these events ignite her passion. Questions like, “What should the staging look like?”, “Who should grace the stage?”, and “How do we make them look and sound their best?” are all part of her daily excitement. Above all, Kitty underscores the importance of leaving attendees motivated, energized, and deeply connected to the companies they work for.

Matching Speakers and Entertainment to the Brand

Erik delves into the process of selecting speakers and entertainers for events, and Kitty shares a humorous anecdote about Harley Davidson’s infamous Milwaukee rally with a surprise guest – Elton John. As it turned out, he wasn’t quite the right fit for the motorcycle crowd. This highlights the critical importance of aligning speakers and entertainment with your brand.

Cutting-Edge Technology: Proto EPIC Hologram

Kitty also introduces us to exciting new event technology that can be utilized for speakers and entertainment, including the Proto EPIC Hologram machine. With this innovation, you can “beam” speakers or entertainers in live or pre-record their performances for your event, taking audience engagement to a whole new level.

A Parting Thought: Trust the Journey

Kitty leaves us with a powerful piece of advice: “Trust the journey that is in front of you.” Ever since an inspiring encounter with Martha Stewart, Kitty has been inspired to embrace fearlessness. Martha told her, “With preparation, there’s nothing to fear in personal life or business.”

So, dear readers, take a page from Kitty’s book and trust your journey. Embrace technology, personalize your network and client connections, and align with your brand. Who knows what incredible adventures and connections lie ahead when you do?

To learn more about Kitty Hart, visit our website. To learn more about what Heroic can do for you, contact us.

Heroic’s Highlights: BizBash’s Connect Marketplace 2023 in Minneapolis

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

What a whirlwind of excitement from August 22-24, 2023 for the Heroic sales and marketing squad! Our calendars were marked for BizBash’s Connect Marketplace 2023 in the vibrant heart of Minneapolis. With 135 trade show booths, a bustling crowd of 2,500 suppliers and buyers, and a jaw-dropping tally of 32,309 one-on-one appointments, you could say we were diving into the hustle and bustle headfirst!

Before we dive in, let’s take a look at the event!

#CONNECT: Image from BizBash's Connect Marketplace 2023
Image from BizBash's Connect Marketplace 2023
Image from BizBash's Connect Marketplace 2023
Image from BizBash's Connect Marketplace 2023

Heroic’s Connect Marketplace 2023 Adventure: A 3-Day Recap

Day 1

Day one kicked off with a “regiception” (a fusion of registration and reception, naturally). We started things off with a bang at the first-timer’s gathering. This event was bursting at the seams with first-time connectors – a record-breaking assembly, might we add! With the newbie camaraderie still in the air, we sashayed our way to the trade show floor. We were dazzled by the Meet Branson, Missouri booth where they were dishing up moonshine ice cream, the Reno Tahoe Puppy Lounge booth filled with furry friends available for adoption, and the Visit Duluth team that provided corporate curling! We ended our day partying like it was 1999 with a Prince-themed extravaganza on Nicollet Mall. Taking over Orchestra Hall, Brit’s Pub, and Peavey Plaza, it was a night to remember.

Day 2

Day two was filled with our first one-on-one appointments. Meeting the crème de la crème of skilled buyers left us grinning from ear to ear. After grabbing some lunch – there were so many options; from skyline chili to macaroni and cheese to freshly baked cookies, we stuffed ourselves to the brim in anticipation of an afternoon of education. Our favorite classes were, The Future is Now: How AI Is Changing the Landscape of Event Planning, Using Event Tech to Leverage Your On-Site Attendee Experience, and 2024 Looks Bright: Forecasting What’s Next in Audiovisual Production. Day two wrapped up in a symphony of afternoon appointments that had us ready for round three!

Day 3

Day three kicked off with another round of one-on-one appointments with enthusiastic buyers. And then came lunch, ah, glorious lunch – the street tacos were fabulous! Our minds got a thorough workout during an eye-opening session on Event Forecasting with the one and only Michael Dominguez before we bid adieu to the final round of one-on-one appointments.

The Countdown to Connect Marketplace August 2024 is On!

As the sun set on our Connect escapade, the Heroic team couldn’t help but reflect on our exciting week spent at the Minneapolis Convention Center. The trip was an inspiring cocktail of fun, education, and making friends from all corners of the world. The countdown to next year’s rendezvous has officially begun – trust us, we’re already donning our party hats in anticipation!

To find out where the Heroic team is headed next, follow us on LinkedIn.

To learn more about what Heroic Productions can do for you, visit our website.

Unleashing the AI Magic: Heroic Productions Hosts Epic AI Event for Marketers’ Community

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

Brace yourselves, marketing mavens! On Tuesday, August 8 from 3 – 5 p.m. Heroic Productions had the pleasure of hosting Marketers’ Community’s AI event with an exciting panel discussion surrounding the power of artificial intelligence. We teamed up with the dynamic duo, Laura King and Abby Kelsey, to welcome a whopping 120 marketing wizards into the captivating realm of STUDIO15. Who knew AI could be this enchanting? We did! 

Before we begin, explore pictures from the event!

Image of the panelists and Heroic
Image of the panelists
Image of the panelists
Image of the panelists
Image of the panelists and STUDIO15
Image of panelists laughing
Image of panelist

Setting the Stage for a Thought-Provoking AI Event

The spectacle kicked off in style as thirsty networkers arrived, grabbed a beverage and began lively conversations. Beyond the usual suspects of beer, wine, and sodas, our salute goes to Jen Gilhoi from Zero Proof Collective for curating a non-alcoholic sanctuary that raised the bar. While the lobby buzzed with anticipation, behind the scenes, the Heroic team and our esteemed panelists were cooking up a storm in the studio.

As the studio doors swung open, guests were mesmerized by a kaleidoscope of Marketers’ Community’s signature colors: purple, pink and orange with fun projected graphics, and dance-worthy tunes. The stage was set with the extraordinary minds including: Tim Brunelle (AI-Generative Creative Consultant, Creative Leader, Adjunct Professor at Minneapolis College of Art and Design), Mona Askalani (Director of Digital Capabilities at General Mills), Garrio Harrison (Partner & CRO at Stoneford Partners), and Heather Boschke (Marketing Leader, Professor, Owner of Buddha Birdie & Vogel Venture). As the studio filled to the brim with 120 curious marketers, the atmosphere hummed with anticipation.

Shining Stars of This AI Event: The Expert Panelists

The panel captivated audiences as they discussed the power of AI and the reasons why marketers should embrace the new technology, not shy away from it. Things like proofreading, client research, competitor analysis, and data interpretation are just a few of the ways AI can add productivity and quality to marketers’ everyday work. The verdict was unanimous: embracing AI is not a choice, it’s a necessity. The message was clear – AI isn’t here to steal your thunder; it’s here to amplify your brilliance. The panel’s golden advice? Dive into AI with wide-eyed enthusiasm, experiment with it (within company guidelines), and most importantly, approach this new technology with optimism! The panel discussion ended with an influx of questions from the audience that led to intriguing discussions.

At the end of this AI event, marketers were encouraged to stay after to chat with the panelists, snack, and network. Excitement surrounding the topic was seeping out of everyone as they trickled out of STUDIO15 with a newfound knowledge and respect for AI. And we, at Heroic Productions, had achieved our mission: to spark curiosity, inspire creativity, and forge new connections! 

Create a Mind-Blowing Event of Your Own With Heroic

To learn more about how you can host your next event in STUDIO15, visit our website or contact our VP of Brand Experience Kitty Hart.

In-Person with Purpose: Heroic’s Guide to Experiential Marketing Events

Posted on by KHart

Experiential marketing events are the perfect way to connect with potential customers, build brand loyalty, and increase engagement in the digital age. From sales kick-offs to Apple iPhone product launches, experiences make the sale. 

Interactive experiences have the power to create memorable connections between a brand and a customer. With our clients in mind, we put together this comprehensive guide to provide all the necessary tips to make your next experiential marketing event stand out. For the rest of your event planning questions, give us a call.

Experiential vs. traditional marketing: experiences make memories 

Traditional marketing reaches audiences through mediums like magazines and newspapers, while experiential marketing focuses on creating an emotional connection with customers through unique in-person experiences. Traditional marketing will always be an effective way to get a message to the public, but experiential marketing provides customers with an opportunity to engage with a product.

Although experiential marketing events are relatively new, brands have introduced their products to people in person as far back as the first World’s Fair in 1851. When William Wrigley, Jr. introduced Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit chewing gum in 1893, he knew people needed to experience it firsthand to appreciate and enjoy its benefits. Wrigley’s investment in the World’s Fair made Wrigley’s brand a huge success. 

Fast forward 100-plus years, and Super Bowl commercials aren’t getting the hype that they did just ten years ago. Consumers today are suffering ad overexposure from traditional marketing methods. Regular TV ads are disruptive advertising at a time when consumers can stream TV shows or fast-forward through commercials. It takes a lot to surprise and delight audiences, which has turned experiential marketing into a breath of fresh air. 

Experiential marketing builds lasting relationships

In-person events have the power to turn an audience of uncertain shoppers into dedicated customers. This power has made experiential marketing events an increasingly popular tool for brands to engage with their customers in a meaningful way. By creating interactive experiences tailored to a target audience, companies can boost brand awareness and build customer loyalty. Engaging the five senses can create memories that translate into powerful, lasting brand affinity. Through memorable events, activities, and experiences, brands can showcase their services and give their customers a chance to get to know the brand better.

Organic consumer connections form through events that create memories and encourage word-of-mouth advertising. It attracts more people to a brand. The recent rise in social media and influencer marketing has made events a dominant and undeniable force in advertising. An ad may draw consumers in, but an experience gives them something to remember. And influencers can’t post about their experiences online without having them first.

People talking at Heroic's Please Welcome event

Launching an experiential marketing campaign? Start with strategy.

When planning an experiential marketing campaign, it is essential to have a well-defined strategy that outlines the goals, metrics, and objectives. You need to understand your audience, how you want to reach your audience, and any communicative challenges that may be in your way. With the audience in mind, you can develop an event plan informed by your marketing goals. Every event is unique, and successful events need a comprehensive approach. These are the basics of how the strategy should form. 

New call-to-action

Know your audience

The first step in creating an effective experiential marketing campaign is to look at your customer base and determine what kind of experiential campaigns they would enjoy. What do your attendees need from this event? Let those needs inform the event’s agenda, activities, and overall themes. Gathering data on who your customers are and what they want will help you identify the target audience and give you valuable insight into the most successful experience. This research could provide information about new markets to explore and what events will be most effective.

Set clear objectives

Once you have identified your target audience, you must solidify goals to ensure your experiential marketing event is successful. Ask yourself what you want to accomplish with this event and consider the ultimate target of the campaign. Is it to gain new customers? Promote a new product? Enter a new market? Once you know what you are working towards, you can begin to plan the event. Understand what you want this experience to communicate about your company’s values and culture. Build strategy from there.

Prepare a team you can trust

Successful experiential marketing events don’t happen in a vacuum. They require careful preparation and planning, and relationships make all the difference. Solid partners will bring a comprehensive set of tools and contacts to overcome any challenges. 

At a preparatory stage, you might consider partnering with an event production company that can create a memorable and engaging experience for your attendees. Look for an experienced event production company with strong referrals and a solid network of event resources. Consider what visuals, interactive activities, and exclusive experiences align with your event objectives. The most successful event teams are highly collaborative and strategic in their approach. Develop solutions with your audience in mind, and don’t forget the fun!

Engage the attendees

Engaging with your audience is key to ensuring the success of your event. Traditional marketing can help you accomplish this. Print or digital ads, social media, contests, giveaways, and other activities are ways you can encourage your audience to interact with your brand. Plan for engagement CTA’s before, during, and after your event. Think about event hashtags. Don’t make this an afterthought. Engagement should be baked into strategy from day one.

Make it immersive

Elevate your event by finding opportunities to directly involve your attendees. Consider what will make the experience most engaging. Immersive elements could include live chat, video rooms, networking, or live Q&A. Whatever you have in mind, collaborate with your event partners and make sure your vendors can facilitate these real-time interactions. Simple attention to an attendee’s needs can make all the difference.

Budget for creativity

A detailed budget will help to guide your location, vendors, and other event resources. Prioritize essentials here, but always leave room for creativity. The success of an experiential marketing event hinges on its unique engagement, and it pays to think outside of the box. Planning far ahead of your event can help your team take the time needed to perfect your budgeting approach.

Plan to track your success

After your event is over, it’ll be important to have a clear assessment of its success. Before your event, determine what metrics you’ll be tracking. Understanding what works and what doesn’t will help you strategize future campaigns. Event value links to an event’s strategic purpose.

Types of experiential marketing events

Experiential marketing events range from intimate press lunches to large public product launches. As you consider what type of event to produce, keep strategy top of mind. Think about what you want to accomplish.

Brand activation: make an impression

Brand activation events are a creative way to build brand awareness and loyalty. Events are an effective tool for generating interest and increasing sales, but more importantly – cultivating long-lasting relationships. To help your brand activation to stand out, you might consider partnering with entertainers and opinion leaders to create fun and interactive experiences that promote brand affinity. You might also use data visualization tools to highlight meaningful insights in an in-person setting. 

Pop-ups: generate buzz

Pop-up events are temporary, unexpected events in unique spaces that capitalize on the element of surprise. They offer a low-cost and low-commitment way for companies to take creative risks and introduce their products to new audiences. Consider what unique pop-up experiences might fit with your brand, whether a kiosk at a trade show or a brewery sampling. Pop-up shops create a sense of urgency and allow companies to sell their products in an environment designed and controlled by them.

Brewery event image

Product launch: show vs. tell 

Product launches provide an experience for people who may not be sure of how they would use a product or service. Silicon Valley giants like Google and Apple have used product launches to show the public how they can benefit from new technology. 

For example, Google recently created a unique product launch event by taking a cupcake truck to the streets of Austin, Texas, to help promote its new photo app. Consider finding creative ways for attendees to interact with your brand. Look for event features that can illustrate the benefits of using your product. The difference is in the details.

Sales meetings: motivate and activate

Sales events can be a major capstone in a company’s year. They offer an opportunity to educate, celebrate, and inspire your team, as well as set objectives for the next sales cycle. The best sales meetings offer team-building experiences and learning opportunities that energize your team and build up their skill set. Set big goals and celebrate your company’s all-stars. The result should be a motivated and activated team.

5 Elements of a successful experiential marketing event

There are many types of experiential marketing events, but they all have a few elements in common. As you plan your next event, keep the following in mind.

  1. Location: Don’t host your event just anywhere. Location can be an enticing incentive for an audience that needs to escape their norm. Let the “why” of your event inform the “where.”
  2. Venue: Look for unique venues that have experience with experiential marketing events. Consider what you’re marketing and why it would benefit from one environment or another. If you’re celebrating something, the environment should be a treat.
  1. Entertainment: Choosing entertainment can make or break an experiential marketing event. Consider timing, audience, and overall—emotion. Who will be in the room, and how will they feel? Look for entertainers who can be enthusiastic about your event and brand — and be prepared to set them up for success.
  2. Technology: Event logistics offer endless opportunities to surprise and delight attendees. From the lighting to the sound and your keynote speaker’s PowerPoint presentation — allow technology to elevate the message of your event. Consider tone. Consider themes. Execute with intention, and trust the experts in guiding your tech.  
  3. Strategic product placement: Your attendees should remember why they’re gathering and remember it often. Look for opportunities to brand your attendees’ experience and give them a memory they can take home. Make your swag bags pop. Place QR codes throughout the venue. If you’re sharing merch, make sure it’s the kind they’ll actually want to wear. Details matter. Make the small stuff count. 
Heroic's Super Bowl concert event image

Heroic is your trusted partner for corporate events

You’ll accomplish the best results when you collaborate with partners who understand your audience’s needs. At Heroic, we’re a one-stop shop for strategizing and producing corporate events. From launching a new product to celebrating your sales team, know all the right event questions to ask and all the right people to call. We leverage years of event management experience to produce experiences that engage your audiences and create measurable impact.

Supportive and experienced collaborators make the difference in event planning. Let’s plan your next experiential marketing event together. Contact us today.

An Event Production Company Offers Success Through Strategy and Collaboration

Posted on by KHart

A large-scale, dynamic event requires an event production company’s creative and logistical expertise–one that understands what it takes to make a game-changing event for your organization. Partnering with professionals at the right event production company is essential to event success–and how you approach that partnership will be critical to maximizing results. 

The success of your partnership will also, in part, rely on collaboration. When you trust an event production company to take the reigns with your event strategy, you can expect targeted solutions and measurable success, making the partnership a worthwhile investment.

Clear event objectives 

Before hiring an event production company, take a moment to understand why you are hosting the event and how that fits into your organization’s goals. Once you’ve developed a strategy, everything else—from the venue to the catering—will be built around it. 

Whether crafting a product launch event, implementing a new sales initiative, celebrating successes or fundraising, there must be an overarching purpose for gathering the group in the first place. Consider your audience. Consider your brand. Then look for event production partners who understand your strategy and are poised to advise you and deliver on your vision.

Order-takers or strategists

When working with an event production company, carefully consider the scope of the event to determine what you’ll need from your partners. You may only need your partners to process an order for lighting or an AV system. But if you need the expertise of a creative production expert to offer more creative solutions, experienced event production partners will take the time to strategize with you and explain how their resources will bring your vision to life. 

Focus on your event objectives and consider your needs. Either way, it helps to get input from an event production company’s leadership. Their expertise will provide you with the best creative execution to give your event the look and feel that you envision. Bonus: it can also help guide your decision-making, so you don’t waste valuable company time and resources. 

Solid Q&A time

A strategic event partner won’t just ask what you need them to do. Instead, they’ll look for an in-depth understanding of your event objectives, needs, and logistical considerations. Don’t take the easy route of simply asking them to repeat events you’ve done in the past. 

A properly run discovery phase will consider all possibilities to allow your event production partner to tailor solutions to your brand’s overall goals. So set aside a little time and prepare to put some creative brainpower into event strategy. Your event production partner—and your attendees will thank you for it!

Teamwork makes the dream work

Effective event planners possess the knowledge and skill to get the job done. Still, your enthusiasm and desire to work together will help them breathe life into your event. The professionals at an event production company understand the big picture and know when to outsource. Be ready to work with them on timelines, budgets, and resources.

Events are just more exhilarating with a bit of teamwork. Forming positive and supportive relationships with everyone involved in your event makes the experience all the more enjoyable. It’s contagious—your attendees will feel it too. 

Results matter 

Your event strategy and planning event logistics should always be tracked by metrics. Will post-event surveys be an effective way to gather feedback? Are attendee numbers helpful or a given? Your event marketing strategy should guide your metrics.

Also, remember to share the results with your event production partners. Event results provide valuable insight into what went right (or wrong!) and will give your partner the information they need to plan ahead.

Keep up the momentum

Use the results from your last event to begin strategizing your next one, no matter how far out that event is. Working with the same team at an event production company creates continuity. 

How did the attendees feel, and how do you want them to feel next time? While the particulars of each event are typically different, successful events should leave your attendees feeling engaged and satisfied. Quantifiable data and clear objectives will continue to be your guiding light.

A trusted event production company

At Heroic, we are an event production company that brings highly experienced event strategists to the table—not order-takers. We help you reach your event goals by crafting an event strategy tailored specifically for you. From increasing sales and creating relationships to raising awareness and providing learning experiences, our experienced creative production experts take the time to figure out exactly why you’re organizing your event. Our collaborative enthusiasm and creative expertise create the perfect event plan for our clients. 

Let’s build a strategy together.

IEBA Annual Conference Stands Alone!

Posted on by KHart

The International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) Annual Conference is an event for professionals in the entertainment business who buy, book, and sell talent. 

The Conference stands alone in the entertainment industry by providing unparalleled networking opportunities with the entertainment industry’s leading innovators and decision makers, professional development, and current entertainment options. 

Attendees include entertainment industry professionals who buy, book, and promote talent. So of course, Kris Campbell, Heroic’s VP Speakers & Entertainment, was there.

Switchfoot performance- IEBA blog featured image

IEBA Annual Conference Highlights

Having just returned from the Nashville annual event, Kris said, “The two highlights were the Corporate 360 Session and three days of an on-going showcase of great live entertainment.” 

The Corporate 360 Session is for entertainment buyers and producers who work in the corporate event market and agents who represent talent who also work (or want to) in that market. This year, the session highlighted a panel discussion with an agent, a band manager, a promoter, and a buyer. There were many aha! moments felt throughout the room, which was fascinating, given most attendees were seasoned professionals. Proves the point that there is always something to learn!

There was also time for round table discussions, where attendees discuss learnings from the past two years. The pandemic was obviously tough on the events industry and the music/touring world. In spite of the difficulties all experienced, it was clear many were forced to be more creative which produced innovative ideas. For instance, we all know the traditional meet and greet events were tough, or even impossible to execute, during the pandemic. One alternate solution was to do a VIP Q&A with a band. This experience starts with selecting a cool venue with a bar and then placing the band up front, socially distanced. Then, let the attendees ask questions! Everyone felt it was more meaningful and less awkward than the traditional meet and greet. 

Kris also commented, “There is no other place to experience so much exciting talent, meet with agents/managers, and learn about new trends – all in a couple days! This conference is essential for those who book talent for the events industry.”  

Still Curious about The IEBA Annual Conference?

Would you like to hear more about the content that was shared at IEBA and Kris’ HOT entertainment recommendations? You can contact her directly here!

Select the Right Corporate Event Partner to Elevate Your Brand

Posted on by KHart

Your next big event will help foster your brand’s growth, so choosing a corporate event production partner is essential. Whether you need technical support or complete event design, the right partner will make all the difference in accelerating your brand’s growth. 

Your needs may vary depending on your company’s brand goals. An effective event production partner should always offer strategic thinking, experience, and collaborative expertise. At Heroic, we know the signals that determine what makes a good partner, so let’s look at some of the green and red flags any brand should consider when choosing a partner for a make-or-break event.

Strategy first

Before designing an event, corporate event production partners need to understand their audience, how they want to approach the audience, and any obstacles. With this in mind, the best partners will always offer solutions informed by your marketing strategy and branding. This strategic mindset comes with assessing the overall value of an event and letting that value guide corporate event production. Every event is unique, and successful events need design partners who bring a consultative approach to production.

RECOMMENDED READING: CORPORATE EVENT STRATEGY: THE SECRET BEHIND A SUCCESSFUL CORPORATE EVENT

Green flag: questions

Look for partners who ask questions and offer creative ideas. A successful discovery phase goes far beyond repeating and refreshing successful ideas from past events. Partners who seek to understand their clients’ company culture and needs will best understand what factors may impact their results.

Red flag: order-taking

Order-taking may be the right approach for some of your needs. There’s a distinct difference between a “what do you need us to do” question and probing questions that uncover your needs. Be on the lookout for order takers. A strategic partner will ask questions about timing, culture, logistics, and specific objectives that best guide their advice. 

Proven track record

Corporate event production partners reflect a company’s capabilities, and whomever you bring on board should be aligned with your company’s level of expertise. At Heroic, we look for vendors who demonstrate our sense of professionalism, urgency, and problem-solving know-how. Every event comes with challenges. If and when something unexpected happens, you’ll want a seasoned team ready to pivot. A proven track record shows that an event production team has the knowledge they need to evolve and offset whatever comes their way with alternative solutions. 

Green flag: referrals

Trust partners that other industry experts consistently recommended. Vendors that come with referrals are more likely to have built long-term relationships that improve the quality of their work. It helps if you’re looking for a recurring relationship, too. The more you work with one partner, the more expertise they will bring to your event needs.

Red flag: lack of specific know-how

If a vendor is seasoned but lacks experience relative to corporate event production, they may not be a good fit for your event. Make sure a potential partner’s skill level matches the needs of the event. The specific knowledge, network, and flexibility it takes to solve corporate event problems come from years of experience. The best way to determine this level of expertise before hiring someone is to ask detailed questions about their previous work.

A collaborative approach 

You achieve the best results when you work with experts who can collaborate and understand the whole of an event instead of one piece. When leaders surround themselves with trusted partners, the chances of success grow exponentially. Find a team that already has its team. You’ll know you can trust their ability to work together as professionals. Relationships you have throughout the corporate event production world make all the difference in the work when working long hours on an event, making it more enjoyable. Solid partners already have a strong network of working relationships that can meet any number of needs.  

At Heroic, we understand our core capability and know when to outsource. When we call our partners to fill in the gaps, we only choose creative partners as meticulous with timelines and budgets as we are. We also only select partners who are parallel in values in the way we work.  

LEARN ABOUT HEROIC’S SPEAKER SERVICES

Green flag: cohesive branding

True teamwork and collaboration happen when your attendees don’t feel the difference between the professionalism of a brand and its vendors. One event—one team committed to keeping your event moving efficiently. Solid partners understand a company and its initiatives enough to be unified in their execution. 

Red flag: the blame game 

When something goes wrong, and an event partner points fingers—it’s not teamwork. The best partners don’t look to blame anyone but instead calmly and efficiently get to work. No one wants to hear excuses. We want to hear “I’m on it” and see accountability for actions.

Invest in corporate event production partners who care

Experience, strategy, and collaborative skills are necessary, but that doesn’t add much if a partner doesn’t show passion for the work. Partners that communicate genuine enthusiasm for a project can better deliver the level of service that a company expects.

Heroic is a one-stop shop for staging, production, and creativity. Our experience makes us flexible to changes, and we’ve already vetted the pieces of our events puzzle—a determining factor in our readiness to deliver consistent results. Companies consistently partner with us because we choose our partners with professional integrity and understanding, and care for our client’s needs.

Contact us to discuss how we can apply our integrative approach to your next event

Choosing Your Corporate Event Entertainment

Posted on by KHart

As an event highlight, corporate event entertainment has the potential to engage and inspire your attendees. It creates shared memories that will last far beyond the event. It’s a chance for them to snap out of their everyday thinking and experience something new. Your attendees might as well be back in the office if they don’t think they’re using their time productively—or if they’re not having a good time.

Choosing the entertainment for your event can be the difference between a so-so event or a great one. You can avoid common mistakes when you book corporate event entertainment for your next event. Like every aspect of event production, entertainment choices are most effective when guided by strategy. 

concert- corporate entertainment planning featured image

Strategize a balanced event

When designing and producing a corporate event, it’s crucial to understand what purpose the entertainment will serve at the event. Once you’ve uncovered the need for entertainment, you can make strategic entertainment choices. You can then determine how best to measure the success of those choices. 

For example, if your primary event goal is to share new information, you may want to formulate a plan to balance entertaining and educating your attendees. Seating your attendees in classroom-style rows to listen to speakers all day might not be the best way to keep your attendees engaged.

You might consider live music or a dance group to create energy as people walk into the General Session or an idea wall during a break outside the ballroom (or meeting room). It’s essential to capture the collective brain power in the room that will be lost by the time everyone gets back to the office. If your attendees have been watching PowerPoint presentations for a few hours, allow them to get up and move with a dance instructor or something that involves interaction. It may be exactly what your event needs to gain more powerful momentum. 

DISCOVER UNIQUE CORPORATE EVENT PLANNING IDEAS

Consider timing and location

Timing is essential for corporate event entertainment. Understandably, the entertainment for an awards show on the final night will differ from a general session. The entertainment should benefit the overall flow of an event. That can mean a musician between breakout sessions or an illusionist to reveal the CEO. Corporate event entertainment is an excellent opportunity for event managers to get creative within the strategy for the event.

The room layout will affect the entertainment experience. If you want your attendees to dance or sit during a musician’s performance, you’ll need to plan for that and create the room layout accordingly.  

Think about your audience

Who’s going to be in the room? Corporate event attendees are often a very diverse group of people, and it can be challenging to find entertainment that reaches every demographic of your audience. Consider what will be most exciting and engaging to everyone who’s there. 

For example, executive leadership may have different entertainment preferences than most younger employees. Is there an entertainer that the 30-somethings and the 60-somethings can all enjoy? It may be that Lionel Richie would create a better overall experience than Harry Styles (assuming both are in budget).

To create a successful experience, work with leadership and follow their lead to create the appropriate experience. If a team has experienced significant setbacks this year, they may not be looking to celebrate with a concert. But if sales are up and employees are ready for their first post-pandemic reunion, then it may be time to party (Karamu, Fiesta, forever…all night long).  

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Artists with corporate event entertainment experience 

Once you know what you’re looking for, you’ll want to prioritize finding artists who can be enthusiastic about your event, ideally with experience and a willingness to give the audience the attention they deserve. A corporate event requires special attention and great performers willing to provide it. 

You must be ready to set your entertainers up for success. For example, they’ll need information about the organization, the attendees, and the messaging of the event. Your performers should know who they are performing for and the event’s purpose. Performers should also understand any challenges with the company or venue regarding timing, content restrictions, or sound ordinances.

When given preparation time and information, we’ve seen rockstars bring down the house with unforgettable performances of original songs written specifically for a corporate event. On the flip side, we’ve seen what happens when comedians haven’t been correctly informed or guided, to the shock and dismay of leadership (particularly HR). For better and worse, the effectiveness of corporate event entertainment strategy lies in attention to detail.

Have some fun

Corporate event entertainment has the power to transform the mindset of your attendees. When it’s all said and done, you can measure an event’s success by your attendees’ engagement. Best case? Your event attendees will be talking about the performance long after it’s over, cherishing the lasting memory of an event that brought people together around a common goal.

If you’re looking for corporate event production that goes above and beyond, call Heroic.

Please Welcome Debuts with Studio Audience at STUDIO15

Posted on by KHart

On Thursday, August 18, Heroic Productions launched a brand new, innovative event series called “Please Welcome”. Designed specifically for corporate leaders, marketing, and event professionals, STUDIO15 @ Heroic buzzed with the sights and sounds of live production, in front of a studio audience. But don’t worry! If you weren’t there, you can catch the broadcast in a few weeks.

“Please Welcome” is a quarterly experience, created by the event strategists at Heroic. Kris Campbell, VP of Speakers & Entertainment, explained that one of many challenges event professionals face today is selecting and booking the best talent that represents, enhances, and punctuates overall event objectives. There are many, many options. And often, while conducting an online search, the one that rings your bell is on the page you didn’t get to because you ran out of search-steam. That’s exactly why working with a talent strategist like Heroic is the answer.

As an example of how the right talent enhances a brand experience, Heroic welcomed and presented Denise Soler Cox onto the inaugural “Please Welcome” stage. At the onset of the event, Kitty Hart, Heroic’s VP of Brand Experience, told us we were in for something special. And she was right.

Denise Soler Cox is a first-generation Latina, award-winning filmmaker, podcaster, and keynote speaker. She floated onto the stage with grace and wrapped her arms around the audience with a beautiful explanation of what it means to create a sense of belonging; something she realized is a deficiency for many. 

Resonating with corporate leaders all over the country, Denise is in high demand as she poses the question, “How can we ask people to be their ‘full selves’ at work if we don’t provide a space for people to experience Belonging?” As leaders understand that DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) is now DEIB (B for belonging), there is still much to be done to help people understand the critical nuance needed to authentically build the feeling of belonging for EVERYONE. 

You can learn more about Denise by contacting Kris Campbell and viewing Denise’s film trailer. 

When’s the next “Please Welcome”? Sign up for our news so you’re always in-the-know for everything #UniquelyHeroic!

How to Choose an Event Production Partner

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

Nothing is more important to the success of an event than partnering with a company who can ensure your visual and audio components are executed flawlessly. But, with so many companies out there, how do you decide which one is right for you and your event?

The key word here is partner. The right event production company will be more than a supplier of equipment and labor. You can take advantage of their years of experience to get sound advice and new ideas that can make your event more interesting, fun, or all-around impressive. Choose the right partner, and you can actually look forward to your event instead of worrying.

What should you look for?

Experience

What is the company’s track record? Do they have solid testimonials? What’s their experience working events similar to yours in size, venue, and complexity? Don’t make assumptions about what they can and cannot do because services and capabilities vary from one company to another. How much of their capacity is in-house, and how much do they outsource?

Creativity

It takes more than efficient AV set-up, execution, and tear-down to produce a seamless, memorable event. It takes artistry and imagination. Can they think outside the box and offer suggestions that will improve the vision of your event or add technological elements you’d never have thought up yourself?

Willingness to work within your budget

Everyone has a budget regardless of the size or scope of their event. The right partner will have your back here, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises. They’ll help you get maximum bang for your buck, advising when it’s best to spend more money and where you can cut costs without compromise.

Communication

Choose a partner who is a good listener and an eager participant — excited to assist with planning your event as well as execution. That strengthens the quality of your production, eliminates misunderstandings, and makes ongoing communication easier. Equally important, it ensures the final event meets your business goals in ways that clearly communicate your brand.

Teamwork and a Great Culture

Camaraderie counts. You want a partner whose people work well and happily with each other because how they function as a team affects the work they do for you. Do you like them? You’ll be spending a lot of time together, much of it under stressful conditions. You want fabulous results, but getting there shouldn’t be torturous. So, how’s their sense of humor and “cultural vibe?”

You’ll find that not every event production company is a good fit for you or your project. Frankly, if you don’t like them or believe in their expertise and talent, you won’t trust them. And trust and flexibility are critical when you’re producing any event. Choose well, though, and you’ll find a long-term partner who will be a multi-value resource when it comes to creating flawless, unforgettable future events.

What Factors Drive Costs for Top Audio Visual Companies?

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

We’re all familiar with the phrase, “You get what you pay for.” There is truth behind that statement, but do you always need to pay more to get what you need? Well, yes and no. As with most things, it helps to understand why prices vary, and then you can decide what level of service you need.

After all, the top audio visual companies got there for a reason. As an event planner, you know how important it is to understand what sort of AV set-up and timeframe will likely be needed for different types of events. Understanding the AV business itself from a behind-the-scenes perspective makes you an even more insightful and effective planner and partner, and it gives you a clearer picture of what goes into the charges you pay. Continue reading “What Factors Drive Costs for Top Audio Visual Companies?”

Live Events Are Back: Celebrate With Entertainment

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

Live, in-person, events are back. People want to socialize, share ideas, and celebrate. It feels good to be together again!

Let’s talk about the celebratory part of the return to in-person events. Celebrations usually include entertainment, all kinds of entertainment. Of course, it’s exciting to see our favorite big-name artists, but many a fabulous event has been accomplished with lesser-known talent.

Continue reading “Live Events Are Back: Celebrate With Entertainment”

Top 5 Tips for a Successful Virtual Commencement

Posted on by McKenna LaFave

It’s hard to believe spring is right around the corner, which means it’s almost graduation season. As you may have guessed, commencements in 2021 won’t be like they used to be – massive venues with hundreds, perhaps thousands, of people gathered for hours as they watched their loved ones walk across stage. But big venues and large crowds aren’t the only things that make a commencement memorable. Many schools are shifting away from cancelling commencements completely and transitioning to a virtual setting. We’ve compiled a list of our top five tips for you to consider when creating a successful virtual commencement.

Continue reading “Top 5 Tips for a Successful Virtual Commencement”

How to Book More Business with Speakers Bureaus with Diane Goodman and Kris Young

Posted on by andrew

Jane Atkinson of The Wealthy Speaker Podcast featured our very own VP of Speakers and Entertainment, Kris Young, and the founder of Goodman Speakers Bureau, Diane Goodman, on her podcast about navigating toward the “new normal.”

Continue reading “How to Book More Business with Speakers Bureaus with Diane Goodman and Kris Young”

Don’t Cancel That Meeting. Consider Live Streaming!

Posted on by andrew

The meetings and events industry has been shaken by the realities and uncertainties of the recent coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Companies have started to second-guess their meeting plans, or are canceling them altogether, especially when travel is involved. Hindsight will be 20/20 as to whether or not these steps are overreaction or prudent. But, at the very least, they are certainly well-intended. And though that intention for your audience is there, the delivery of your event’s message has now been compromised. So, short of canceling altogether, what can your organization do to share its message, in a safe and timely manner?

Continue reading “Don’t Cancel That Meeting. Consider Live Streaming!”

Heroic Welcomes Kris Young As New VP Speakers & Entertainment

Posted on by andrew

Kris Young_Heroic ProductionsWe are excited to announce our newest member to the team, Kris Young as VP, Speakers & Entertainment. In this role, Young will solely focus on helping clients secure talent to help deliver event key messages.

Continue reading “Heroic Welcomes Kris Young As New VP Speakers & Entertainment”

Conference and Event Lighting: Considerations, Color Schemes & Tips

Posted on by andrew

Point fixture, flip switch, ta-da—Lighting. Hang on, there’s a bit more to the art and science of lights and lighting gear, techniques and design. Let’s begin with some options and definitions:

Key & Fill Lighting — Illuminate the front, from two slightly different directions.

Side Lighting — Add more definition in an unusual way. Strong side light from a single direction can produce dramatic shadows on the floor or walls.

Backlighting — Separates people and things from the background – eliminate it and things recede. Picture your host emerging from a darkened rear stage, stepping into the front lights and picking up her backlight as she steps forward. She literally comes to life.

Continue reading “Conference and Event Lighting: Considerations, Color Schemes & Tips”

Ask the Pros: 7 Event Lighting and Sound Tips to Make Your Event Special

Posted on by andrew

Whether your big event is going to be in a stadium or arena or a hotel ballroom, everybody would love to have the same kinds of sound and lighting as the pros use. But what if you don’t have access to all that big equipment? You can still use some of their tips.

“The impact of your event depends a lot on the talent and creativity of your AV team,” says Mike Rice, production manager here at Heroic Productions.

So, if you want your event to be extra special, he suggests remembering that there shouldn’t be a “standard” setup for sound and lighting. It should always be based on the venue. “You should mix sound in a glass wall ballroom completely differently than in a stadium,” he notes.

Continue reading “Ask the Pros: 7 Event Lighting and Sound Tips to Make Your Event Special”

Music Harmonized: 8 Considerations When Planning Live Music for Events

Posted on by andrew

Heroic Productions_Live MusicMusic inspires, incites, and indicates a level of thought and care that went into your event. Besides, who doesn’t like music? Or at least good, well-played, produced and curated music.

When you are planning for events, live music can serve as a background, or take center stage, or both. Either way, it’s essential to consider the details. Should it be a band, orchestra, duo, soloist, organ grinder with a monkey, or maybe a drum line? Wait, what genre—jazz, pop, rock, hip hop, cover dance, there are lots of choices. 

Continue reading “Music Harmonized: 8 Considerations When Planning Live Music for Events”

How Gustavus’s Christmas Performance Fosters Student and Alumni Engagement

Posted on by andrew

Here in Minnesota, where choral music traditions are mythic, we are blessed with an abundance of Christmas concert performances. And one of those cherished traditions is Christmas in Christ Chapel at Gustavus Adolphus College.

When you talk to people about Christmas in Christ Chapel, the word you hear most often is joy. Happily, there is a long-standing connection between the Heroic Productions team and Christmas in Christ Chapel, or C in CC as it is known locally. In a way, you might even say Heroic has been there from the start. Continue reading “How Gustavus’s Christmas Performance Fosters Student and Alumni Engagement”

7 Inspiring Stage Set Design Ideas for Your Next Conference

Posted on by andrew

Even the most experienced conference event planner can sometimes feel stuck when it comes to set stage design ideas that will WOW your audience. It’s important to create something that will impress, but not detract, all while fitting into the venue, supporting your event goals, and staying within your budget.

Conference stage design makes the first impression for all of your attendees. It’s important not to settle into the same old, same old ideas that have been seen at conferences before.

Sometimes, all we need is a little inspiration. So, here are some of the Heroic team’s favorite set stage design ideas that we think will get those creative juices flowing.

Continue reading “7 Inspiring Stage Set Design Ideas for Your Next Conference”

Tips for organizing a successful roadshow event

Posted on by andrew

bring your own av teamMulti-location corporate events are more popular than ever. But that can really complicate things for event planners because you want to give all your attendees, in all your locations, the same message and experience. How can you take your show on the road and do it right? Take your AV team with you! Here’s how that works.

Everything revolves around logistics

Your AV team and all their gear need to be in the right place at the right time. You have to allow enough time for shipping/trucking and personal travel. For example, here’s how our Heroic crew handled the AV for Delta Airlines’ 747 fleet retirement event. Four locations across the US, 300-500 guests at each event, in four consecutive days. In winter!

Continue reading “Tips for organizing a successful roadshow event”

The Role of AV in Sponsorship and Brand Activations

Posted on by andrew

Nintendo_Switch_Target_Heroic ProductionsLighting and sound convey emotion, which is why they are such critical elements of any AV plan. Emotions are what memories are made of, so creating an evocative experience makes your event memorable. It’s not surprising, then, that both lighting and sound can play an impactful role in brand and sponsorship activations.

Continue reading “The Role of AV in Sponsorship and Brand Activations”

Theatre Lighting Techniques for Dramatic Stage Lighting At Your Event

Posted on by andrew

Camera! Action! Wait, where are the lights? We often take lighting for granted, but as an event planner, the more you know about the creative side of lighting, the more you can engage your audiences and impress them with memorable experiences.

The best way to add drama with lighting is to take a tip from the theatre. Stage lighting pros are experts at using light to evoke emotions and create a dramatic (or romantic, or we-mean-business) mood. The same goes for big music events because nothing uses more lighting to make an impact than a rock concert!

Here are some stage lighting tips and tricks we regularly use: Continue reading “Theatre Lighting Techniques for Dramatic Stage Lighting At Your Event”

Want Massive Impact at Your Event? Try Storytelling.

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event storytellingStorytelling. It’s not just for bedtime anymore. Now it’s all grown up and ready to wow guests at your next event. Telling stories can be a compelling way to massively boost your event’s impact and make it more memorable because it has multi-sensory appeal. Storytelling is the all-inclusive technique to deliver that extra wow factor! Continue reading “Want Massive Impact at Your Event? Try Storytelling.”

How to Improve Live Streaming at Your Event and Guarantee a Quality Feed

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how to improve live streamingLive streaming has become a very important way to expand the reach of big events. You can include a virtual audience from around the world for a live look-in at a charity event, or open your doors to participants who can’t travel to a conference or company function. That can present extra challenges, though, so In order to provide a flawless experience, you need to know how to improve live streaming.

Why? Because streaming quality not only affects audience enjoyment, it reflects on your brand. Even sketchy transmission can send your content out to more people, but technically excellent streaming will make them feel like they’re right there with you.

Continue reading “How to Improve Live Streaming at Your Event and Guarantee a Quality Feed”

Heroic Supports Nobel Conference 54

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Heroic Productions returned to Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN for Nobel Conference 54. For this annual prestigious event, the Lund Arena ice rink is transformed into a lecture setting for several thousand attendees, and it’s our job to help make sure the message is seen, heard and remembered by all in attendance. We do that with fabulous scenic, crisp audio and video, and creative lighting. A rock-solid video feed is provided for a live web-stream (also recorded for viewing on YouTube) of all the presenters so that people unable to attend have front-row seats for the lectures.

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Gala Tips and Takeaways from the Minnesota Star Awards

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minnesota star awardsWe had a unique 360-degree view of this year’s Minnesota Star Awards, the International Live Events Association’s gala to honor the top performers in our industry. Not only did we have the opportunity to present one award and win another – which was a true honor – but we also handled the entire AV production. And if you don’t think we pulled out all the stops for a ballroom full of our industry colleagues, you don’t know us very well!

It was a huge event, and working with industry insiders as both our “clients” and the “talent” only added to the pressure, yet that ultimately proved the value of some of our most trusty processes to pull it all together.  Continue reading “Gala Tips and Takeaways from the Minnesota Star Awards”

Everything You Need to Know About Cue-To-Cue

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You know your talent needs to rehearse before the event goes live, but did you know that your AV team also needs to rehearse? We, in the AV industry, call it cue-to-cue. In the same way that performers and presenters need to practice, your AV team wants to be sure that all the lights, sound, visuals — and, yes, the talent — are poised to do their thing at exactly the right time.

After all, your AV team wants your show flow — the end-to-end production — to be flawless. And they know you do, too.

Continue reading “Everything You Need to Know About Cue-To-Cue”

How Syncing Projection Mapping to Music can Enhance Your Event

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Projection mapping is a great way for entertainers or speakers to engage with their audience. But have you thought of combining sight and sound by syncing projection mapping to music? We can do that. Talk about creating a cohesive and eye-catching AV element!  Your event is sure to be the talk of the town.

Continue reading “How Syncing Projection Mapping to Music can Enhance Your Event”

Cue the Music: Best Way to Set the Mood at Your Event

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mood music

Music has a strong correlation to memories and mood. Whether you choose a DJ or live musical entertainment for your event, make sure their playlist and their style match the atmosphere you want to create. If you succeed, attendees may remember your event for years to come every time they hear a certain song or listen to a specific band. That’s the power of mood music.

Successful mood music is no afterthought. There are a number of factors that you’ll want to consider before making any musical decisions, and you’ll want to get busy with that as soon as you start planning your event. Not only is music integral to your entire event experience, the best DJs and bands often book up far in advance.

Here are four key elements you’ll want to think about: Continue reading “Cue the Music: Best Way to Set the Mood at Your Event”

7 Loading Dock Questions to Ask Your Venue

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loading dockA large event requires coordination among several vendors, many of whom will need to use the loading dock to get equipment in and out of your event. Most venues have rules and restrictions for using their loading docks. As an event planner, it’s important to know those rules so you can communicate them to your vendors.

Here are some loading dock questions you should ask your venue. Do this as soon as possible because everyone (including you) will have to plan ahead to ensure loading dock activities run efficiently and safely.

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An AV Experience: What We Learned from Super Bowl LIVE

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super bowl liveThe opportunity to work on Super Bowl LIVE festivities doesn’t happen very often for Minnesota vendors. In fact, the last time we hosted The Big Game was in 1992, when the Washington Redskins defeated the Buffalo Bills 37–24 at Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome. When The Big Game came to U.S. Bank Stadium last year, we were honored to have a seat at the table by being chosen as the lighting provider for all of Super Bowl LIVE 2018.

Super Bowl LIVE was hands-down the largest event we’ve participated in to date, and it challenged us in ways we’ve never experienced before. We learned a number of great lessons from our AV experience at Super Bowl LIVE that we wanted to share with others in the event production world. Before we jump into the lessons we learned, it’s important that we lay out the details of this large-scale event. Continue reading “An AV Experience: What We Learned from Super Bowl LIVE”

6 Ways to Get Out of Your Event Design Rut

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event designIt’s every event planners goal to make things go as smoothly as possible at your event. So it’s easy to follow a tried-and-true formula of branded colors, logos, and speeches from the CEO — no surprises there! But, think about it from your audience’s point of view. No one wants to attend the same event over and over again. So, if you’re focusing on efficiency instead of your attendees, it’s time for a change!

Here are six ways you can get out of your event design rut, freshen it up, and reignite excitement. Continue reading “6 Ways to Get Out of Your Event Design Rut”

Event Production 101: What it Takes to Pull Off a Large Event

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Large Event ProductionA lot of work goes into hosting a great event no matter what size it is, but larger events require bigger venues and more of everything. And more almost always means more complicated, especially when you’re talking about audio-visual requirements. So, what goes into AV setup for a large-scale event?

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Event Setup: 3 Tips for a Quick, Stress-Free Load In and Load Out

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Loading DockIf you’re planning an event for your business or organization, load in and load out may not be the first thing that comes to mind. It may not be “your job,” but a smooth load in and load out process can make all the difference for your event. So it is up to you, as the planner, to do everything you can to ensure event setup goes well. Continue reading “Event Setup: 3 Tips for a Quick, Stress-Free Load In and Load Out”

A Host with the Most: How to Pick an Enthusiastic Event Emcee

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event emceeWhether you want an emcee that tugs at heartstrings, cracks jokes, poses for a selfie that later goes viral or all of the above, it’s important to pick the right person for your type of event. After all, your event emcee can quickly engage or disengage your attendees. So, choose someone who is appropriately enthusiastic, friendly, and quick-witted.

Continue reading “A Host with the Most: How to Pick an Enthusiastic Event Emcee”

How to Format an Event Video for a Large LED Screen

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Video has become a common feature in many successful and engaging events, and most of these videos are displayed on an LED screen. But, if your formatting is off, your display may fail to fill the screen, or it will look squished, stretched, or worse. No one wants that! To ensure your event video has maximum impact, here are some tips on formatting for a large LED screen.

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Fog Effect: How Smoke Machines and Hazers can Enhance Your Event

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Looking to add a little “atmosphere” to your event? Perhaps some smoke, haze, or fog? Smoke machines and hazers are popular for large-scale events because you can create a cool look that permeates your room or generates special lighting effects.

Here are some ways these machines can enhance your event.

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Acoustics and Rigging: How Important is My Venue’s Ceiling Height?

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When you’re checking out venues for your next event, look up. Why? Because ceiling height matters, too.

You may be a pro at examining the room’s layout, walls, even the floor — mentally picturing how you might arrange the room. But are you forgetting the ceiling? Believe it or not, your venue’s ceiling height has a big impact on both the acoustics and rigging for your event.

Continue reading “Acoustics and Rigging: How Important is My Venue’s Ceiling Height?”

Tech Team Roles: 11 Important People in Your Planning Process

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tech team roles

When you work with an audio visual team, it can be supremely helpful to know who does what. The more complex your production, the larger your tech team will be, but many of the key roles remain pretty much the same. Don’t worry if you don’t know every individual and their job, they will still do the same amazing work they always do. But the more you understand specific behind-the-scene roles before and during your event, the smarter and more creative you can be in planning and executing something truly memorable.

Here are some common job titles in the AV industry and their responsibilities.  Continue reading “Tech Team Roles: 11 Important People in Your Planning Process”

8 Event Safety Tips to Keep Production Staff and Crew Safe

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Heroic Productions_Event Safety TipsStructural staging for events almost seems to materialize right before your eyes. It’s impressive. But most non-AV folks don’t think about what it takes to set up and tear down, or how critical event safety is during those processes. Equipment can be massive, and it’s fragile. So are human bodies. Rigging all that heavy equipment can be dangerous if you don’t take proper safety precautions.

No one wants injuries, whether minor or catastrophic. Following these tips will help ensure your event production staff and crew stay safe during setup and teardown.

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Event Staging: 11 Tips for the Best Stage Setup

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If your event includes a presentation or performers, your stage should be the focal point of the room. But where should it go? The front of the room may seem obvious, but is that the best location? If people can’t comfortably see the action, your event will be a bust. These tips will help you determine the best event staging for your space.

Hint: Get your AV team involved in planning right from the beginning. That way, you can avoid overlooking vital details and get the best show on earth (or at least on your stage) for your budget.

Continue reading “Event Staging: 11 Tips for the Best Stage Setup”

Lighting Considerations for Your Next Event [VIDEO]

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Lighting during an event plays a much bigger role than most people realize. When done right, lighting seamlessly creates a mood and enhances the theme of the event. But if you have never worked with lighting before, there are a few things you should know that will impact how it will affect the feel of your event. In this video, Heroic’s Jon and Steve talk through some key information to consider when choosing what type of lighting should be used at your next event.

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Digital Projectors, LCD Screens, or LED Panels: Which is Right for my Event?

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Heroic Productions_Digital Projectors LED Panels LCD Screens

Whether you’re organizing a rock concert, a conference, or a family fun run, digital displays can help you create the right atmosphere and relay important information during large-scale events. But with a wide variety of display options available such as:

  • digital projectors
  • LED panels
  • LCD screens

You want to make sure you’re choosing the right technology for your needs.

The display best suited for your event typically comes down to lighting, audience size, and the other staging elements available. Use this blog to choose the digital display that will make the most significant impact at your next event.

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Elicit an Encore: Backline Considerations for Live Music at Your Next Event [VIDEO]

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Nothing brings an event to life better than live music. But if you have never worked with musicians before, there are a few things you should know that will impact how well the live entertainment performs during your event. From two guys who have lived the musician’s life themselves, Heroic’s Jon and Steve talk through some key information to consider when planning to include a musical performance at your next event in this video.

What Backline Do You Need?

Have you been asked by the performers to provide backline for your event, but have no idea what they are referring to? Backline means the equipment or instruments that are required to support an act at a specific venue, that the band or artist doesn’t want to bring themselves. After all, it’s likely they are hopping on a plane or bus after your event to head to their next tour stop.

Whether you are bringing in a national act, a local band, or even a DJ, they are going to have requirements spelled out in their contract on what you need to provide as the event planner. They may need anything from keyboards and a drum set to amplifiers for their bass and guitars.

Why You Should Ask

Backline is critically important to the success of a performance. There is nothing worse than having the artist show up to your event at 3 pm for a sound check and there isn’t a drum set or keyboard. As an event planner, you want to plan ahead by asking musicians what they need, to avoid any issues that may arise. Learning the language and what to ask about is the first step!

Considerations for Video at Your Next Event [VIDEO]

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Incorporating video in your event is a great way to engage the audience and better showcase what is happening on stage. However, it’s not as easy as simply setting up a video camera and letting it roll. Video is a common AV challenge we frequently see in the industry. It would help if you considered several things, from screens and sightlines to the ambient lighting of the room. In this video, Jon and Steve will break down some key components to consider when adding video to your next event.

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Innovative Ways to Enhance Audience Engagement at Your Event

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Heroic Productions_Enhance audience engagement at your eventYou could host an event with nothing more than guest speakers and featured videos. Yet, if your audience can’t engage beyond passively watching and listening, they’re less likely to walk away, thinking it was a good experience. Fortunately, ever-evolving technology is making it easier than ever to inspire more audience engagement. Continue reading “Innovative Ways to Enhance Audience Engagement at Your Event”

Large-Scale Event Trends that are Turning Heads in 2018

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Heroic Productions_Large-scale event trendsIf you’re putting on a significant event such as a national or international conference or a multi-day festival, it’s your outstanding array of “content” that will attract attendees. But, let’s face it. Today’s attendees expect a comprehensively exceptional experience — one personalized for them. And the hottest event trends reflect that.

Continue reading “Large-Scale Event Trends that are Turning Heads in 2018”

When Should I Include an Event Production Company in My Planning?

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Heroic Productions_ Delta Fairwell Event_Event Production

You need lights, sound, maybe even video. You know you’re going to need an event production company to handle all that, and maybe more. But should you include them in your planning now, or wait until you have a clear plan ready to go?

We recommend bringing them right from the beginning. Always.

Continue reading “When Should I Include an Event Production Company in My Planning?”

How to Choose an Event Production Partner

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Choose An Event PartnerNothing is more critical to the success of an event than partnering with a company that can ensure flawless execution with your visual and audio components. But, with so many companies, how do you decide which one is right for you and your event?
The keyword is a partner. The right event production company will be more than a supplier of equipment and labor. You can take advantage of their years of experience to get sound advice and new ideas that can make your event more exciting, fun, or all-around impressive. Choose the right partner, and you can look forward to your event instead of worrying.

Continue reading “How to Choose an Event Production Partner”

Drop the Mic: Download Our Production Partner Discovery Guide

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Your big event is coming up and you need it to be a showstopper. Everyone who walks into the room needs to be blown away and leave feeling energized and inspired! You can’t afford to forget any details or have any technical glitches (are you already having nightmares about the keynote speaker’s presentation not loading?). It has to be right the first time.

Continue reading “Drop the Mic: Download Our Production Partner Discovery Guide”