PRESTIGE EVENTS MAGAZINE - VOLUME 9, ISSUE 3

SUMMER 2012

ARTHUR SOMERSET AND THE ORIGINAL’S OF CORPORATE HOSPITALITY CHRISTMAS PARTIES IDEAS CATERING TRENDS LONDON’S NEW VENUES UNUSUAL VENUES WHAT WE’RE DRINKING

CONTENTS AND PUBLISHERS NOTES

CONTENTS The last few months have been a rollercoaster in the events world. We’ve had the Queens Jubilee, Wimbledon, and the Olympics, coupled with cancellations of events in the live music festivals market. Whilst this has been a summer during which there has been more calendar event, what it demonstrates more than anything is that the consumer has more power and is more educated. The Olympics were a disaster considering what they could have generated for the economy. Lesson 1: London hosts each weekend 8 major football matches, never mind rugby matches, hundreds of thousands using the trains and roads to shop, etc. So why did the government (and others in our events industry too) feel compelled to support messages about the strain on the tube and roads network? With a population that already has a threat of terrorism ingrained into their subconscious and the ticket application fiasco, there was only going to be one result…you feel it’s more trouble than it’s worth, you don’t feel ‘included’ (blame the LOCOG nazi brandsponsors enforcement officers for quashing the pre-Olympics mood), so you book time off and go on holiday. Now tell me who is going to hosting a corporate event with these multipliers in place. The Olympics generated great memories (Mo Farah, Jess, Rutherford, etc), but the political back-slapping is a falsehood. AND DON’T GET ME STARTED ON THE NAME ‘TEAM GB’. WE ARE GREAT BRITAIN. WE ARE A GREAT NATION OF GREAT PEOPLE. #CELEBRATE IT. Final word must go the memory of a legend in our industry that we lost in July, Arthur Somerset. Many of you will have known him from his time at Mask, and latterly at Formans Fish Island, and ISES. A great man lost. One of the originals, whom we pay homage to in this edition. RIP.

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17 Things you didn’t about Confex 2012 Readers Letters The Originals of Corporate Hospitality What we’re drinking The Olympics opening ceremony: Suppliers take a bow In the trade Christmas party ideas Event sponsorship on the party scene Essex Unusual Venues In the trade A-Z of corporate events 20/20 speed networking in pictures: a review Catering trends Venue/Supplier focus section How to organise a film premiere party London’s new venues The 5th annual COOL Venues Awards: Review in photos Useful Websites sponsored by

Official events video production partner:

Enjoy!

Prestige events team: CEO/Founder/Publisher: Wesley Mendy Contributing editor: Kristiana Kruysmulder Head of client relations: Dan Bearpark Head of Marketing: Joanna Kafouris Art Director: Lewis Flanders Production: Errol Griffiths Administration: Samantha Todd Financial controller: Chris Mendy E-mail newsletter design: Merlin Diavova

Official partner of : Official 20/20 events registration partner:

Official events photography partner:

Official event backdrops partner:

Editorial contributors: Simon T Bailey, William R Valentine, Lord Jason Scott, Will Broome, Emily Gillan, Clayton Dean, Hope Mendy, Darren Halsall at Blue TomatoPrestige Events magazine is a MX4 Ltd publication.

Prestige Events Magazine, 108 Clydesdale Road, Hornchurch Essex RM11 1AJ t:01708 737393 enquiries@prestigeeventsguide.com www.prestigeeventsguide.com All views and opinions and content expressed remain that of the individual contributor and neither MX4 Ltd or Prestige Events magazine accept responsibility for any liability.

All content in this edition remains the intellectual property of MX4 Ltd and MX4 Ltd holds copyright and cannot be reproduced, replicated, lent, or publicly displayed without prior permission from MX4 Ltd. MX4 Ltd 2012

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17 THINGS YOU DIDNT KNOW ‘CHRISTMAS EVENT PLANNING SPECIAL’

17 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW

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Christmas at London Bridge Experience & London Tombs - Awaken All Your Senses!

Get ready to be spooked this Christmas at the London Bridge Experience & London Tombs - UK’s Best Scare Attraction! The London Bridge Experience is coming alive this Christmas for your party with a difference.

Contact the team at Cooks & Partners for availability and to arrange your showround...Be prepared for an adventure! Price From £83.00 + VAT per person E: enquiries@cooksandpartners.co.uk T. +44 (0)20 77315282

Statoil Masters Tennis Round off the year of Great British sport with a 10% discount on full hospitality at this year’s Statoil Masters Tennis.

Celebrate the festive season with Legends of the game at the Royal Albert Hall this December. Hospitality is available in either a Grand Tier box (12 people) or a Loggia Box (8 people). Afternoon sessions = 3 matches Evening sessions = 2 matches Prices for the final are on application. T. +44 (0)20 8233 5860 E: james.dale@imgworld.com

Let the Saatchi Gallery light up your Christmas event this year Packages starting from £99+VAT for a canapé reception and £180+VAT for a dinner reception are now available.

Packages are now available and include venue hire and exquisite catering from Rhubarb Food Design. T. +44 (0)20 8968 9331 E: saatchigallery@gsp-uk.com

Book a delivery with us and get a complimentary case of wine To celebrate the fabulous year we are having in London with the Queen’s Jubilee and the on-going games; we would like to reward you with a complimentary case of wine with your order. Place your first order with Purple Grape Catering from our delivery range, be it from our canapés and platters or our little black pots, and get it delivered between 13th August and 9th September 2012, and we will send you a case of wine to enjoy with the food (as long as your order is over £200). T. +44 (0)20 8453 3310 E: emily@purplegrapecatering.co.uk

Don’t Miss Out! Christmas at Battersea Power Station

Last year’s Christmas party not quite hit the festive season off how you’d hoped? Get organised this year! Book early to avoid disappointment, limited spaces left. Join us for a 1920’s themed Christmas party extravaganza in the heart of London’s most beloved landmarks, Battersea Power Station. Imagine, bootlegging gangs are ruling the streets but in the mists of this derelict industrial landscape the shadowy world of speak easy is kicking off! Champagne, dodgems, dinner, disco, Charleston and much, much more…For tickets and more information please call Rhiannon on 020 7269 7935, email niveen@industri.uk.com or visit http://www.industri.uk.com/pdf/battersea-xmas2012.pdf for a best party brochure.

Your Christmas party, all wrapped up at ILEC Conference Centre.

Our Christmas 2012 Party Treats have arrived. Choose one of our two special packages and pick one of our add-ons to add some sparkle to your night. Book your party now! Add a little spark to your party with our event production partner, they will provide music, lights, live music to make it a night to remember! Call our team to book your event with us, 0207 666 8550 / H5623-SB2@accor.com

£2,000 XMAS DIAMOND PACKAGE FOR THE PRICE OF £1,000! | LIMITED PACKAGE OFFER London & Partners, the official promotional organisation for London, is supporting International Confex. Having launched in April 2011, London & Partners has secured over 300 private sector partners, including many in the events industry like Hilton Hotels and will be bringing a group of hosted buyers to International Confex from the UK, Europe and the USA, helping to generate thousands of meetings between exhibitors and buyers at the show.

Riverside Christmas celebrations at The Gun Whether you are looking to host a private party or intimate lunch or dinner, The Gun is the perfect spot for Christmas.

During the whole of December we will be offering a special festive set menu. It will consist of an aperitif glass of Chapel Down (an excellent sparkling wine from Kent), an amuse bouche, a choice of 4 starters, 4 mains and 4 desserts, coffee/tea, festive petit fours and Christmas crackers. Our onsite, experienced events team will organise your booking from start to finish. Book now to secure your preferred dates! T. +44 (0)20 7515 5222 E: vanessa@thegundocklands.com

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A Winter Garden Christmas at The Roof Gardens

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Celebrate this festive season 100ft above London at The Roof Gardens and experience a stunning ‘Winter Garden’ Christmas. With a fantastic festive lunch offer available, events bookers will have plenty of reasons to host a Christmas get-together at The Roof Gardens. Enjoy an exclusive Christmas Lunch Party at The Roof Garden, and your guests will receive a glass of sparkling wine on arrival, a delicious Christmas plated meal or buffet menu, half a bottle of selected wine & mineral water per person and a DJ or entertainer to get the party in full swing! All for £85 per person (minimum numbers apply). Celebrate a Winter Garden Christmas at The Roof Gardens in November & December 2012. Subject to availability. T. +44 (0)20 7937 7994 E: events@roofgardens.virgin.co.uk

CHRISTMAS HIRE AT THE BOX SOHO

For the first time The Box is opening its doors as the perfect London venue for your Christmas celebrations. From an intimate festive dinner, a lavish banquet and show or a thrilling late-night party, we can give you whatever your heart desires. Let us treat your guests to the full-blown Box experience, or tailor shows to satisfy your requirements. Prices start from £105 per head. Send us your Christmas wish list ASAP as space is limited events@theboxsoho.com T. +44 (0)02074344374 E: sophie@theboxsoho.com

Christmas at The Folly

For those eager to be organized, book your Christmas party with us in August & receive a complimentary mulled wine or mulled cider reception Monday & Tuesday’s through the month of December & late November. We know it’s only August but it’s never too early to plan & confirm your Christmas party. Explore the different spaces available for hire, have a chat with our events team & sample our Christmas menu. To book your place, E: christmas@thefollybar.co.uk T: 0845 468 01 02.

Complimentary Champagne at Stringfellows

Stringfellows Gentlemen’s club and Restaurant offers you a complimentary bottle of vintage Moet Chandon champagne or a bottle of selected wine when ordering a main course and starter or dessert for 2 people. For Restaurant Reservations call 020 7240 5534 stating Londonlaunch Special offer!

For corporate Party Booking or venue hire email chrissie@stringfellows.com

Celebrate at Angels Soho!

Peter Stringfellows Angels Gentlemen’s club and Steak Restaurant are delighted to offer you a bottle of wine from our selected wine list with our compliments when ordering dinner for two from our a la carte menu. Offer Valid through out July and August 2012 subject to availability. For Restaurant Reservations call 020 7758 0670 stating Londonlaunch Special offer! For corporate Party Booking or venue hire email chrissie@stringfellows.com

What are you doing for Xmas 2012?!

Welcome to the Xmas Cracker that is packed full of team building ideas with a festive twist! Our Xmas team building activities work as stand alone events, or even as an exciting prelude to the evening celebrations. Call or email us for a quote TODAY! - info@paulfarrisentertainment.com or 0208 166 8850.

2-4-1 at Proud Cabaret

Proud Cabaret is offfering 2-4-1 on our dining and show experience. The offer is valid every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. T. +44 (0)207 482 3867 E: info@proudcabaret.com

Cocktail Masterclass at Casino at The Empire

Discover the art of mixology and become a graduate of the bar during a 90-minute interactive Cocktail Masterclass for only £20.12 per person. Shake, mix, muddle and, most importantly, drink three cocktails designed by our expert bar tenders to tickle your liquid senses. Only £20.12 per person. Visits http://www.thecasinolsq.com/experience-packagedetails/cocktail-masterclassor call 020 3642 8578 for more information or call 020 3642 8578 for more information. T. +44 (0)020 3642 8578 E: cwilkinson@london-clubs.co.uk

LiveTech 2012- The social media conference for Live events.

In just one day, LiveTech 2012 will provide you with the Social Media ‘know how’ to make your events: More targeted, More measurable, More successful Come to LiveTech and learn how Social Media can work for your events, how to use it seamlessly within your existing marketing plan and how to extend the reach of your events. Learn more and download the brochure here - www. live-tech.eventbrite.com T: 0207 471 2600, E: Katie.higgins@londonlaunch.com

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READERS LETTERS

ASK PAUL

Our sartorial expert, leading Saville Row tailor Paul Wilkinson answers your questions to assist you in ensuring your presence commands the room in this era when you can’t afford to risk looking second-best.

Paul has 10 years of bespoke tailoring experience. Raised in strong Scottish stock, Paul is renowned for his warm, lively, and charismatic personality, astute eye for detail, and colourful opinions on formal dress.

Paul’s client portfolio is not restricted to bankers! His client portfolio is very eclectic: from club owners to party planners and premiership footballers to pop stars.

WINNING LETTER As an advertising manager for an ethically conscious brand it’s important for me to look smart yet still remain earth friendly with my approach to fashion. Where should I look for pieces?

– Stella, Bristol ‘People Tree’ have recently launched a brilliant line called Aimee, combining smart, fashion friendly clothes with a clear conscience. For Jewellery ’Nettie Ket’ merges the old with the new in a line that combines Aztec shapes with clusters of different metals to create a unique, yet wholly wearable look. Finally the Cambridge Satchel’s seen on everyone and anyone are completely on trend, long lasting and ethically sourced. Have fun Shopping!

Dear Paul, With fashion evolving so quickly I find it very hard to keep up, what era are we going for this season? Is it still Mad Men sixties cool or Mick Jagger mixed pjama prints? Just how am I supposed to dress for work and the events that inevitably come with it?

– Gemma, Liverpool Neither I’m afraid! Geometric nineties, combined with a classic cool – think Gucci- is what you should be aiming for. For women entertain the idea of a classic camel coat with a square heeled stiletto, accentuated with a clear face bar some brown eye shadow. Men, the classic suit is always key but a khaki coloured bag (leather would be perfect) will add an edge to such a formal look that will last years.

Dear Paul, Just what am I supposed to be doing with my hair this season? Dip dye and ombre doesn’t apply to men does it? I don’t think pink tips would fly in the office and was hoping for a more subtle look but Carnaby Street seems to be telling me otherwise!

– Jacob, London Short sides and a longer top is all you need this season.

This trend stemmed from last year’s catwalks but suits

everyone and looks strangely, dare I say it, classic. For inspiration look to Colin Farrell, and don’t be afraid to go extreme. Even when a dramatic change in thickness is prominent this look is still incredibly office friendly.

Dear Paul, I know that winter is upon us and I quake with dread at the return of the bobble hat, which only seemed to reach absurd levels of childishness last year. Same again when shopping A/W 13 all I seem to find are garishly coloured knitwear which won’t only make me look unprofessional but will give terrible hat hair. Help?

Claire- Birmingham When in doubt, go French. Yes I mean a Beret and the only time you shouldn’t wear one is when you’re also wearing stripes (or you’re just asking for it). Available from Gap, Accessorize and River Island have fun and find a wearable print to suit you. For when it’s a bit milder you may want to invest in a Hermes scarf. Luxurious and timeless it certainly won’t destroy your hair.

Dear Paul, Knitwear is obviously a winter essential and far from the bobbly one at the back of the wardrobe, I want to invest in long lasting on trend pieces I can wear to art events and work. Wear shall I go and what styles should I be on the lookout for?

Mark- London Givenchy and Burberry all showed daring pieces of knitwear on both mens and women’s knitwear, although the former generated far more headlines, because of the heavy investment in animal motifs throughout their collections. Of course the high street will follow suit, but to purchase one of the Owl, Shark or Tiger adorned pieces is not to splurge unnecessarily but to invest in a piece of art.

All eyes will be on you for the right reasons.

Ask Paul a question and win a fantastic Montblanc Pen . Thank you to Montblanc Corporate Gifts for the fantastic prize of a timeless Meisterstuck Platinum Ballpoint Pen (www.montblanccorporategift.co.uk). Email your questions to us at enquiries@prestigeeventsguide.com for a chance to win next time and to receive another piece of writing culture from Montblanc Corporate Gifts. A time honored tradition.

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ARTHUR SOMERSET

SIR ARTHUR OF SOMERSET! Flamboyant, eccentric, effervescent, loud, creative, articulate, talented, hilarious, gloriously obnoxious and (much of the time) purple! If I’d heard those words at any stage since 2001 it would have meant only one thing to me.

Arthur.

There’s an urban myth (that only I seem to know, so I probably dreamt it!) whereby Arthur visited China to speak at an early ISES event. Unfortunately he’d not only ended up on the wrong conference, but he’d found himself on the wrong Continent. For this was indeed ISES - the “International Solar Energy Society”! Realising the error, Arthur, not to miss an opportunity, addressed a baffled audience anyway!

Needless to say, it was the best party they’d ever had (although I’m not sure solar energy had a vintage year!)

Surely this story can’t be true? But the fact that I’m not entirely sure speaks volumes about Arthur.

And yet, despite these all encompassing, unequalled, larger than life and unmissable characteristics, Arthur was quite enigmatic because, above all, he was mostly two other, quite different, things. Kind and modest.

From the very early days of my career in this industry, Arthur treated me as if I had been around forever. He took me under his wing for no apparent gain or reason and became, ironically, my voice of reason. This continued and not long ago he invited me to lunch (in a remote spot that not even a sat nav had heard of, of course) and proceeded to tell me that although much of what I was planning was ‘a bit shit’, with a few tweaks it could be something huge. He also had highly specific brilliant ideas too. He would never let me forget that it was he who came up with the name of our ‘Who’s in the Room’ initiative! Which I quickly Trademarked.

Although, as you might expect, his was altogether more ‘hip’ and called “Who’s in da House!”

He was also a real life aristocrat, yet he let the world believe that he was just a lot like one! And he never traded on it.

Perhaps if he’d unleashed this on the Americans instead of bread rolls at all those gala dinners he would have, by now, been crowned King Arthur of ISES (though not the solar energy one!). In reality, I think he was set to be a Baron.

Lord Raglan to be more precise and it was his ancestor who led the British Army at the time of the Charge of the Light Brigade. God, if that was my lineage you would have all heard about it (a lot!). And so, it’s all the more difficult to comprehend when this happens to someone so seemingly invincible. It’s so hard to imagine life without him. So perhaps we don’t need to think of it like that?

Personally, I don’t like the concept of the whole RIP thing.

I don’t imagine Arthur will want to rest for long anyway.

There’s plenty for him to be getting on with and, like all great people, Arthur will always be around. He lives on through his influence on so many of us as well as his pioneering and boundary-pushing business ideas. He also lives on through his children who, I’m sure, will go on to achieve great things just like all the Somersets have always done....

I guess all I’m trying to say is, the sun will never set on Arthur Somerset!

Will Broome

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THE ORIGINALS

MAD

DOGS

AND

ENGLISHMEN I consider myself somewhat of an inbetweener. Sure, I’ve been around in this industry for over a decade now but, as in all sectors of industry, there’s a recognised age of invention. A time that really encapsulates the spirit of the professional era, defining the way forward and setting the tone for the foreseeable future. I believe that that time was about twenty years ago.

Before this era, formed by a creative nuclei of mad dogs and Englishmen, there was a solitary, high profile icon who ‘invented’ the professional art of party planning.

That Lady was, indeed, a ‘Lady’ in the literal sense of the word - Lady Elizabeth Anson, to be exact. As the Queen’s Cousin, Lady Liz would have been forgiven for resting on her laurels, yet it was her desire for independent recognition which inspired her to create ‘Party Planners’, the early ‘Ronseal’ of the events industry - they did exactly what it said on the tin, and still do!

Party Planners were pioneers and, by the early 1980’s, organising parties was seen as a sexy and professional skill. Over the next twenty years, the trail blazed by Lady Liz (popularised by high profile, media driven Royal Celebrations which have been at the forefront of global popular culture ever since) has gathered momentum and, even in recessionary times, the corporate event is recognised as crucial within a wider sales and marketing campaign as well as now being seen as a ‘professional’ sector. I was lucky enough to get to know her quite well and had wonderful lunches with her at her Ladbroke Grove home on a couple of occasions. Her down to earth and welcoming approach were a tribute to her global success - a genuine pioneer (although she did have a special silver box in which a red button was concealed to summon a discreet butler at opportune moments throughout the meal - very Downton!)

showcased his cooking skills in her kitchen! Although the part where she claims he set it on fire and ran away may be poetic license!

Many industries come of age via a collective of energetic, talented, driven, inspired and daring individuals who come together and feed off each other’s desire and passion, often resulting in ‘creating a market’.

In 1992 my school friend, James Hall, then known as ‘Chubby’ and now known as the Retail Editor of The Daily Telegraph, threw a properly amazing eighteenth birthday party, the likes of which we had never experienced before. Suddenly, parties had stepped up from the (amazing) Gatecrasher Balls we public school boys (and girls) loved so dearly. This Moroccan themed party had what subsequently became known as the ‘Wow Factor’. A cliched phrase now but a revelation back then. At Arthur Somerset’s funeral earlier this month, I learnt that this party was where our paths had first crossed. Amazingly, it was Mask’s first ever event!

So, the ball was rolling. And then all sorts of people began to come out of the woodwork. Some, like the now mighty Crown Group came across Lady Liz in the early days, and legend has it that Russell Morgan himself

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THE ORIGINALS

I firmly believe in stables of greatness. By this I mean that one crea tive genius attracts another..... and another and another, and so on. I believe this happened in the early 1990’s. Started by Lady Liz in London and pollinating a collective of others through the star spangled glittering of magic dust, popularity and glamour she sprinkled so effectively, this chain reaction was the catalyst for an injection of entrepreneurialism that the events scene so desperately needed. Creativity is important, but how many people can make a successful business out of that?

In such a transient and sexy sector, how many people come and go? How many companies disappear and are never heard of again? However, from this defining age, pioneers and leaders established brands that remain at the forefront of this industry to this very day. Crown Group, The Concerto Group (founded by Guy Rodger and Mike Kershaw as the Ultimate Experience), Mask, The Admirable Crichton, Rhubarb (founded by Lucy Gemmell, formerly of The AC), Chance Entertainment and Bentleys (famous for their work with The Beckhams), William Bartholomew Party Organising, Theme Traders and creative suppliers such as Adam Sternberg (Sternberg Clarke), Philip Hughes (The Ice Box), Detta Phillips and Rob Van Helden (both Floral design) are all still known brands at the top of their game.

Add to that the ‘super agencies’ derived from the same era – Fisher Productions, GSP and Imagination to name a handful, and you have a full house of ‘experiential’ success stories. And there are so many others. Interestingly, before the dot.com boom which most of these brands preceded, many of the above adorned the back pages of society magazine, Tatler, from a time when professionally organized events were accessible only to the privileged few. The fact this has dramatically changed is further evidence that events are now seen as necessary from a commercial perspective.

and Olympic icons, brought closer together by a shared immaturity the likes of which the banking industry could never witness (or get away with)! Or what about the time me and Andy Callin were ‘volunteered’ to don Hannah Montana wigs and perform Bon Jovi’s Living on a Prayer’ in front of an adoring crown of 500 event industry leaders at a dinner in San Diego! (“Lon Don Jovi San Diego” on YouTube if you’re interested!). It is crucial to note that all this was started by Richard Foulkes (Imagination), Richard Groves (Create) and Richard Beggs (Moving Venue), to this day, the three dicks, led by the irreplaceable Honourable Arthur Somerset (Mask) on the keys and vocals, who wrote the unofficial ISES theme tune and performed it to great critical acclaim (and bemusement) in, where else, Las Vegas! “It’s not venereal.....!”

The event industry is a fun place to be. A perfect fusion of business and pleasure, from both sides of the equation.

As Dale Carnegie so aptly puts it, “It’s all about empathy.

Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and seeing what they want. And if you can do that, you can do anything”.

It’s not necessarily what you do, it’s how you make people feel that lasts in the memory. Events have the power to do all of the above like no other sector can.

But above all, our industry needs to be mischievous, cheeky, exciting, unexpected and needs to continue to surprise and delight forever and ever, Amen. Just like our industry’s true pioneers, because the events industry is only as good as the people who are in it. And the really good ones last forever!

Will Broome, CEO, Londonlaunch.com

A few years ago I was President of the International Special Events Society (ISES UK) and it was within this superb organisation that I got to know many of these now legendary pioneers, on a global scale. The feeling of comeraderie that this common goal of best practice within a specialist creative sector, which itself attracted an eclectic mix of genius and lunacy (and above all, rewarded calculated lunacy) was so enlightening. British visionaries such as Sally Webb of the Special Event Company demonstrated that a simple (quality) business could achieve global success, through drive and determination. After a hard afternoon of educational sessions in Atlanta, Mike Kershaw and I had great fun wandering the streets hanging handbags on statues of the City’s founding fathers

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WHAT WE’RE

WHAT WE’RE DRINKING

DRINKING...

Chin Chin! Gin Gin!

If you want a taste of quintessential Britishness head down to The Worship Street Whistling Shop for a ruddy delicious range of mixed spirits. Their Langdales Mood Enhancer was created in honour of the gin bootlegging trade of yesteryear.

Served on a board with sherbet sugar and licorice, the gin is presented in a medicine bottle, as it would have been packaged during illegal trade. Once poured over the large slab of hand carved ice, Campari and Vermouth in the delicate tumbler, this is a drink that easily goes down in four sups. http://whistlingshop.com/

A treat of a Treaty

Recently voted ‘World’s Best New Cocktail Bar’ at the Spirited Awards, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d entered the Mad Hatter’s dolls house upon arrival at the Zetter Town House. Take the time to daydream in wonderland and pick up one of their famous cocktails; the velvety Master of Arms or the zingy Treaty of 1854 for a truly refreshing break from reality. http://www.thezettertownhouse.com/

Carnivorous cocktails

London’s largest South African haunt is now home to a carnivorous gang of cocktails including the Bloody Bacon, Meatquita and Salm ‘n’ Martini. Dinner meets cocktail in this bizarre pairing but beware: these are not for the fainthearted.

http://www.shaka-zulu.com/

Double 6 Deals

Brought to you by Blue Tomato - London’s Premier Restaurant & Food Guide, check out Double 6 Deals. A new daily deal platform that specializes in bars & restaurants. No more wading through deals for laser hair removal or magic classes, only the highest quality deals that London has to offer.

http://www.double6deals.com

X rated ‘shakes

Milkshakes have always been a naughty treat for kids but The Love Shake has given this heavenly delight an x-rated twist, blending up an array of alcoholic mixes including the divine Oreetto, a deliciously cold blend of Oreos and Amaretto. I’ll take that with two straws, please.

http://www.theloveshake.co.uk/

Flower power

Turns out lavender isn’t just for the garden as this fanciful cocktail will prove. On offer at the quirky and kitsch Willy Wonka-esque venue Lounge Lover, it’s time to embrace this flowery treat surrounded by the decadent décor of warped sofas, beautiful mirrors and gleaming lights.

http://www.loungelover.uk.com/

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THE OLYMPICS

HOW THEY MADE THOSE

MAGIC MOMENTS

THE OAK TREE The 40ft model of an Oak Tree that rose above the grassy mound (representing Glastonbury Tor) in the opening ceremony was made of steel and fibreglass, and was lifted by a winch. Inside the mould spiral staircases allowed actors to emerge from the ground. Around the tree, 79,000sq. ft of real grass and wildflowers adorned a stage set 11ft above the stadium floor to allow a technical crew to do their magic. In total 161,000 sq.ft of staging was used over the ceremony – equivalent to 12 Olympic sized swimming pools MARY POPPINS Thirty two actresses were dressed as Mary Poppins to descend on wires attached to rigging which could support 25 tons. They carried umbrellas with lights attached- just some of the 2,000 props used over the night, from 737 suppliers.

THE CHIMMNEYS High powered fans inflated the seven fabric chimneys up to 100ft high from trap doors in the stage. Crew kept them upright using winches whilst trapeze artists used gears and pulleys to secure the spectacle, from a mesh of wires suspended over the stadium. Alongside them five 32ft long, 9ft-wide steam engines made of steel, aluminium and wood were assembled by ten crew members to help portray the industrial revolution THE OLYMPIC SYMBOL Amber lights lit in a sequence created the illusion of a 100ft molten steel river with pyrotechnic smoke and ‘dry ice’ as the steam. The steel ‘flowed’ into a 39ft trough to form an aluminium lit ring which was raised to join four other rings to create the Olympic symbol 328ft above the stadium.

A shower of sparks descended upon the stadium, actors protected by fireproof costumes. The marvel was masterminded by Brighton’s Howard Eton Lighting, which has designed special effects for west end shows.

BECKHAM Despite the rumours that David Beckham wasn’t driving the speedboat – named Max Power- that sped him down the Thames, organisers insist he WAS operating the controls, with other crew members ready to assist needs be.

Apart from the close up shots of Becks, the entire final trip of the torch was filmed by live, overseen by Billy Elliot director Stephen Daldry.

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VOLDERMORT The 18 metre Voldermort was controlled by wires from the rigging and puppeteers under the stage using rods. Set designer was in charge of the props team which made it, and responsible for the fear in every child’s eyes as he emerged from the scene.

THE NHS The NHS scene used more than 1,200 volunteers from UK hospitals, including 600 nurses. The giant baby was made from fibreglass paper and switches lit the beds of dozing children on the 320 beds. Overall a huge 10m went on lights alone throughout the opening ceremony.

THE QUEEN (and Bond) Stuntman Gary Connery dressed as the Queen to leap from a helicopter 550ft above the stadium. Mark Sutton, a former soldier, jumped as 007. They had taken off from Stapleford Airfield in Essex and hovered over London for 30 minutes before the jump, landing just outside the stadium next to Anish Kapoor’s infamous Steel Tower.

THE WINDRUSH The Windrush representing the ship that brought the first West Indian immigrants to Britain in 1948, was assembled by a crew carrying four parts made of steel rods covered by fabric made to look like newspapers from the time.

Wires decorated with bunting kept the ship upright, whilst actors on stilts played passengers.

BIRD BIKES The 75 ‘dove bikes’, 70 of which were ridden by volunteers found in online cycling forums, rehearsed in secrecy. The Fabric wings had tiny LED lights and were operated by aluminium rods attached to the handlebars which riders pressed to create the flapping effect. Bob Haro who created the famous bike flying scene in E.T, choreographed this sequence.

FIREWORKS The fantastic pyrotechnics finale was devised by Kimbolton Fireworks, founded by a Cambridgeshire vicar and former chemistry teacher, the Reverend Ron Lancaster.

The firm – now managed by his son-in-law – also devise the fireworks for the Mayor of London’s annual New Year display.

THE OLYMPICS

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IN THE TRADE

IN THE TRADE WITH...

ISLA McKENZIE AT MINISTRY OF SOUND

before the event my event plan is sent to everyone that it needs to go to including the venue manager and our technical team. Following that we always meet to discuss the event plan this way we can catch anything that may pose a problem on the day. I always make sure I get a good sleep the night before as most event set ups requires me to be on site early with a long day ahead.

Q/ What preparation goes into your service?

Now more than ever it’s important to get service spot on.

Budgets are tighter so if a client puts their trust in you to deliver their event you need to make sure you over deliver. As I mentioned communication is key, and a lot of time is spent ensuring every member of the team knows exactly what is going on.

Q/ You have a varied client portfolio. Care to name a few? And what do you feel was the defining factor in establishing your relationships?

I work as Head of Private Hire for Ministry of Sound in London.

When I was younger at school I never had a clue that anyone could actually work as an events manager. Let’s face it, back when I was at school this was never something your guidance teacher was going to suggest you do, it didn’t fall into the prestigious career choices like being a nurse or a vet that they seem to always tell you about. Luckily I had other ideas! I can’t sit still for longer than 10 minutes and I get bored quicker than a 4 year old does with their new toy. I needed to do something that inspired me and focused my attention so when I discovered the events industry I was in my element. I moved to London 3 years ago from Scotland and at first it was a struggle to get into to the events industry here despite my 6 years experience back home but I have never looked back.

Q/ What was the inspiration behind you getting involved in corporate events?

After studying events management I never knew exactly what sector of events I wanted to work in but while studying we always talked about how important events had become to the corporate market not only to showcase their products and services but also to reward and motivate their staff. It was a huge growth market 10 years ago when I was studying. I suppose it is because of this that I always had an interest in the corporate events side of things.

I did initially work for a charity managing Events but eventually moved to being venue based where I started dealing more with corporate events.

Q/ How do you prepare for a big event day?

Being venue based it is imperative that there is constant communication with the operations team so 2 weeks

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With such a versatile space at Ministry of Sound our clients range from Lucozade and Wagamama to BT and Warner Bros but I should definitely mention all the event companies that we work with. Being venue based my job would be 100 times harder if I didn’t have countless event companies and venue finders working hard to bring in events.

I believe the best way to build and maintain relationships are to be approachable, sociable and personable. There are so many great venues in London so you have to be at the fore front of people’s minds when they are looking for a venue.

Q/ What’s it like working with such big-name clients?

There is always a great pressure on to get things right but I truly believe that every event should be treated as important as each other. The young girl arranging that 100 people Christmas party now may very well be the woman arranging the 1000 people event in 2 years time.

Everyone deserves impeccable service and an attention to detail that Picasso would be proud of.

Q/ How important a role does ‘COOL’ play in events?

Working with a brand link Ministry of Sound, ‘Cool’ is hugely important to us. At Ministry of Sound we constantly strive to be ahead of the game in everything that we do.

The venue is just about to celebrate its 21st birthday and was voted “Best Sound System in The World” by IDMA in 2011 and 2012 so it’s obvious we don’t let our venue get left behind.

Q/ What would you like to see happen in the corporate events industry in the next 12 months?

Everyone in the industry now is always looking to create something better and more exciting so I would like to see more companies taking a chance and looking at versatile venues like Ministry of Sound for their events because the setup does offer endless possibilities.

IN THE TRADE

IN THE TRADE WITH...

JEMMA ALLEN AT CABLE LONDON

get a client what they need, its worthwhile when you see then end result: a brilliant event and a happy client!

Q/ You have a varied client portfolio. Care to name a few? And what do you feel was the defining factor in establishing your relationships?

Cable certainly does have some wonderful clients however; one thing I think is very important is a client’s privacy, especially with the UK’s current financial situation.

Well known organisations usually don’t want their event to be public knowledge, so trust is definitely a defining factor! We did recently have a very exciting artist in to shoot her album cover, she looked fantastic.

Q/ What’s it like working with such big-name clients?

It’s great, but then again I enjoy working with all kinds of clients. They all have unique visions for their events and it’s my job to help create it for them. The end result is always rewarding especially when guests walk into the venue and see how fantastic it looks.

Q/ How important a role does ‘COOL’ play in events?

Everyone has their own ‘COOL’. It’s like a unique selling point, everything and everyone is blessed with it, it’s a question as to whether it’s used to maximum potential.

Without it the events industry might not be what it is today, in short it plays a massive role in events.

Q/ What would you like to see happen in the corporate events industry in the next 12 months?

I am the private hire manager at Cable London, a magnificent industrial music venue, based under the arches of London Bridge Station. I’m a big fan of red wine, films, travelling and organising amazing events!

Q/ What was the inspiration behind you getting involved in corporate events?

When I was in sixth form I wasn’t 100% about what I wanted to do with my life. Then my parents asked me to help organise their 30th wedding anniversary, and I found my calling. I went on to study an Events Management degree at Manchester Metropolitan University, and while I was there I was lucky enough to be involved in actual event organisation. Corporate events don’t have to be dull and boring. I love the fact that organisers are being really creative with their conferences and meetings.

We recently had a really fun morning meeting in Cable with lots of colours and unusual props; it really stimulated the all attendees which meant you didn’t have people yawning or half asleep. There are so many inspiring things you can do for corporate events to give them that edge.

I would love to see more organisations holding their corporate events in unlikely and distinctive venues such as Cable. I honestly think delegates would be more excited about attending a conference in an industrial space with character and lots of potential than the traditional spaces. It’s great that slowly more and more organisers are taking that exciting step out of the norm!

Q/ How do you prepare for a big event day?

A good pair of shoes, a clipboard, a checklist and a big smile!

Q/ What preparation goes into your service?

I’m a natural communicator, so I love meeting people and getting to know them and their event needs. I’m always more than happy to go to great lengths to try and

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Christmas parties

CHRISTMAS

PARTY IDEAS

Awesome Christmas Parties. Go to www.awesome-christmas.co.uk to see the brand new website and Awesome Events Christmas selection 2012, where we have added some exciting new themes such as Lavish and Enchanted, as well as bringing back our ever popular classics Cirque de Noel, Disco Thru the Decades and Memories of Motown. Whether you are looking to join in the party atmosphere at a shared Christmas party, or have an exclusive event, Awesome has the answer. As the events management company behind these events, Awesome designs and themes all the venues themselves, as such you are always guaranteed to get the best deal directly – and as an incentive to do so – we offer the organiser of groups of over 30 and 75 some very special offers!

Thorny Devil Events – your personal assistant in finding the best venue for your special occasion. Be it a bar, restaurant, karaoke, club, marquee, boat, zoo or bus! We have found great spaces and are keen to share the best with you. Our focus currently is on finding amazing Christmas Party experiences…with memories that will last a lifetime. Cocktails and Canapés, Sit down diners, shared events…whatever your tipple we have the venue.

Visit the site or call the Devilish Event Planners today. We’re keen to get started on your next event too. www.thornydevilevents.co.uk 020 3651 2878

Much more than the world’s greatest club.

Ministry of Sound is a unique space comprised of 5 individual rooms and can be booked as a whole or on an individual room basis. We also have a great heated outdoor terrace which can provide a spectacular extra space for any event. Ministry of Sound can be transformed to realise your ideal event, the venue can accommodate parties for 100 to 1500 guests and we can support a range of catering options from light canapés to seated banqueting Christmas at Shaka Zulu takes you to a new level.

Whether you’re looking for a lunch or dinner with set menu or a party night with passing foods, Shaka Zulu can cater for all your requirements.

Come and party the night away with us at Shaka Zulu for a Christmas you will never forget!! info@shaka-zulu.com 020 3376 9911 Be original with your Christmas party and have a look at what Emirates Stadium can offer. Our packages start from just £54pp which includes a three course traditional Christmas dinner, DJ entertainment, Christmas decorations and more. We also offer tailor-made packages to ensure your experience is perfect.

Enjoy a spectacular Christmas event at the Saatchi Gallery this year. Packages are now available and include venue hire and exquisite catering from “rhubarb” Food Design.

Saatchi Gallery Christmas packages include Exclusive venue hire from 6pm to Midnight Superb festive catering and beverages from “rhubarb” Food Design Canapé reception from £99+VAT per person

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Christmas parties

Reception and dinner from £180+VAT per person Prices are based on 150 guests. Conditions apply.

The Saatchi Gallery Venue Team can assist with fantastic additional ideas to make your 2012 Christmas one to remember. For more information.

020 8968 9331 venues@gsp-uk.com indigO2, originally known for our successful music events has opened our doors to the Corporate World. Our large capacity and the flexibility of the space make us a great choice for companies looking to give their delegates something a little different. The venue is perfect for product launches, award ceremonies, conferences, conventions, exhibitions, corporate dinners and more! indigO2 is based at North Greenwich within the main O2 building.

Surrounded by restaurants and other activities such as “Up at the O2” we work hard to develop, inspire and meet the needs of our clients and have one main goal...... to impress!

The Hempel is a truly unique venue, catering for everyone of your Christmas needs. Book early, sit back and relax.

There is no place better to celebrate Christmas with colleagues or friends than in the wonderfully sleek and contemporary surroundings of The Hempel, the most iconic boutique hotel in the capital. Packages start from £50 per head.

Add some sparkle to your 2012 Christmas party with the Urban Soul Orchestra (www.urbansoulorchestra.co.uk), a versatile string ensemble with a unique twist guaranteed to rock your party! Whether it’s a Chill Out Set during drinks, Acoustic Ensemble during dinner or a dance set with the Little Big Band, USO offer a classy alternative to a covers band bringing you a mixture of serene songs, iconic anthems, chart hits and club classics. Incorporating percussion, bass, DJ and vocals USO have created several sets so you can book one group to perform a different style for each part of your event. Recent events include Cannes Film Festival, Monaco Grand Prix & Wimbledon Ball.

Our gift vouchers are the perfect choice for an outdoor lover.

The classic and original Go Ape experience. We’ll brief you for safety before you fly down our zip-wires, leap off our Tarzan Swing and tackle our obstacles whilst enjoying some of Britain’s most breathtaking scenery.

One of the great things about Go Ape is that it brings people together. It’s a fun way to spend time with family, friends or colleagues. Our customers find their friendships grow when they’re on the course. Perhaps it’s that sense of shared experience, perhaps it’s getting close to nature, or it might just be that monkeying around in the trees with your tribe brings a smile to your face. Find out more here http://goape.co.uk/gift

the ultimate in Christmas Parties this year and revel in the magic of ‘Fabulous Las Vegas’ at the Silverstone Wing, overlooking the world famous Grand Prix Circuit. For only £57 + VAT per person indulge in everything from casinos and live music performances, to fine-dining and a night of dancing. With coach transfers and overnight accommodation available on request, this unforgettable evening is open to groups and individuals looking for a unique experience this Christmas.

This Year, the funkiest Christmas parties are at fabric!!!

This December, fabric once again will be available for private & corporate hire – for the funkiest Christmas Parties in town! The world famous disco will be turned into a cool winter wonderland complete with Xmas décor and fairy lights a-plenty to welcome all your end of year parties (dinner-dance, drinks & canapés reception, buffet style parties shared & bespoke parties catering from 100 to 1800 guests - whatever version suits your requirements)....

The whole venue can become your Xmas playground; take over one or more of our dance floors to give your colleagues’, clients & guests a memorable night.

All inclusive packages boast a cocktail or champagne reception on arrival & unlimited drinks, substantial Canapés & Bowls and a DJ starting from £54 + VAT. If your company Christmas dinner is taking place elsewhere, why not join us for the fun part of the evening? Tickets just cost £40 for entry to the disco with unlimited drinks from 10pm till 2am (dates & number restrictions apply).”

Contact: Jessica Reilly – T 020 7549 48 44 E: Jessica@fabriclondon.com W: www.fabriclondon.com Have a Merry Bricksmas!

Join us at The LEGOLAND Windsor Resort Hotel this party season and celebrate in style at our Christmas party Under the Sea from only £39 per person.

Experience a unique journey beneath the waves in Atlantis Submarine Voyage followed by a fantastic 3 course festive dinner, music and dancing until late!

You can even extend your party and stay overnight in one of our LEGO® themed bedrooms for only £99 per room including breakfast.

To book your party please call our Christmas Team on 01753 751251 or email christmasparties@LEGOLAND.co.uk.

Terms & Conditions apply.

Celebrate in style at the iconic Wembley Stadium this Christmas.

At such a special time of year, Wembley Stadium presents the ideal backdrop for festive get-togethers. With packages from £60.00 + VAT per person everyone is welcomed celebrate Christmas in style. Our exciting packages promise to make any festive event memorable, whether it’s for an intimate gathering of 20 or a large party of up to 1,000.

Availability is limited so call us now on 020 8795 9660 or email us on specialevents@wembleystadium.com

Enjoy Christmas Parties This Year at Silverstone. Experience

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EVENT SPONSORSHIP

THE PARTY AND EVENTS SCENE IN EUROPE In a dimly lit basement, walls pulsating with electronic music, and the energy of two hundred 20-sommethings in downtown Istanbul, some inspired marketing is taking place. The DJ, fresh off the plane from Los Angeles seems somehow connected to the beat as he manipulates the vibe of the club, not distracted by the entertainment provided on the nearby stage. Decadence is in full swing and the kinds of antics usually remembered foggily by those at Studio 54 are belittled by the events taking place here- all captured in glorious fashion by the discreet photographer as per. Of course most of the spirit(s) stem from the bar in the corner, which is manned by mixologists from Absolut vodka, blending vibrant and semi-lethal cocktails in branded glasses.

It goes without saying that we are at the best and most exclusive party in town, nothing creates a party spirit like free alcohol and it all comes courtesy of brand sponsoring.

In Turkey mainstream advertising of both tobacco and alcohol has been steadily prohibited throughout the current government’s decade in power. This combined with increases in tax have made these vices considerably more expensive, the result leading to the growth of a hugely successful underground promotion scene in Istanbul in particular.

In January this year even sports sponsorship was barred to alcohol brands, denting access to a key target audience and forcing some of Turkey’s leading teams to change their names. On top of a 18% import tax Restaurants and Bars have to pay tax on any drinks they sell, relative to its percentage of alcohol, this hits foreign spirit brands more so than say the Turkish produced Efes beer.

In an attempt to combat such heavy restrictions International Alcohol and Tobacco brands have approached individuals on the Istanbul arts scene to host parties sponsored by the brand, targeting a select audience of young professionals far more effectively than mainstream advertising. Zeren Aslan, a top promoter and social sultan in Istanbul calls them “guerrilla” parties – and his are legendary. Unusual Venues, multimedia entertainment and the hottest contacts in town make him far more valuable than

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a billboard. Aslan is well aware that the exclusive nature of his parties encourage the high end image the foreign brands are trying to project. Invites are personal and details of the venue and nature of the event only given days before, creating an air of excitement around the brand.

Branding at these parties is prominent and photographers ensure a regular feed to the right kinds of media. This helps market the brand to young, wealthy Europeans who are willing to spend money to have a good time, and spend money on an unattainable image.

Aslan is not only the target of brands willing to tap into Istanbul’s young and wealthy, Showhow a companythat deals with “entertainment experiences”, and has Efes Pilson and Miller beer fighting for his time, as well as nondrinks brands such as Vodafone and Renault, proving the versatility of the style of event.

The alcohol industry pulls in around £2.5 billion pounds in Turkey every year, and with £1.75 billion going to the government in the form of taxes, it is simple to see why companies have had to resort to such creative ways to market their brands. This kind of promotion in Eastern Europe isn’t just exciting and innovative but important to these brand’s survival in this part of the world. As much as it’s fun – it’s business.

Drinks groups are cautious about admitting to sponsorship deals. Serpil Kilichi , marketing director at Pernod Ricard, says sponsorship deals are important to Absolut “especially for art related organisations [and] if the target group and the content of the party and organisation is relevant to our brand identity. We sponsor events in return for PR coverage” So what does this prove and make so relevant to Event organisers today? Brands have to up their game and create an exclusive secrecy. No one wants to be at a party everyone can go to. Also guerrilla warfare style events have evolved, and whilst the ‘two fingers’ approach to restriction is still there a more contemporary, cool, and wealthy air has been given to it. We aren’t talking sit ins outside a government building, but a party IN one sponsored by a brand proving their enthusiasm for hedonism with heavy investment of their product.

EVENT SPONSORSHIP

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ESSEX

Kristiana Kruysmulder explores some of Essex’s more inspirational locals Enjoy the design revolution that has taken the county by storm with all manner of slick, modern sites and high-end classic hideaways available for events.

Presiding over historic Colchester’s high street since last September, firstsite, a new crescent-shaped cultural arts and conference centre blends contemporary art spaces with cutting-edge technology. The cool grey and warm wood-lined theatre is perfect for presentations for up to 190 guests, supported by smaller meeting spaces for 25.

Coating the unusual building is pliable gold cladding while a glass foyer floods the entrance and MUSA Café Restaurant with natural light.

Unveiled at the end of 2006, the Ivor Crewe Lecture Hall is the shining heart of the University of Essex Campus in Colchester. Elliptical stainless steel and fluid glass encircles one of the largest lecture halls of any UK higher education institution, with a seating capacity of 1,000.

The purpose-built facilities can be subdivided into two independent parts, enabling the University to organise and host exhibitions, conferences and other examinations.

Nearby, Crowne Plaza Resort Colchester – Five Lakes is the only Crowne Plaza resort in the UK and is Essex’s largest conference venue. The property offers 194 refurbished bedrooms and suites, 18 conference rooms that can hold up to 4,000 minglers for a reception, and a spa for unwinding after a big event. Pack your sporting prowess to enjoy the activity field, 18-hole golf course, swimming pool or various other muscle-flexing opportunities.

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ESSEX

In the heart of the CEME campus, The Pod ultra-modern conference theatre gives a nod towards deliciously Danish-styled design with light wood timbers and a gradient of vibrant colours in the fixed seating for 200. A further 19 contemporary event rooms can support all manner of meetings, but the state-of-the-facilities in the Pod are consistently in demand for launches, high-end presentations and receptions. The venue’s close proximity to the City, Canary Wharf and Stratford’s Olympic Park are an added bonus for organisers.

Southend Pier’s brand new £3m Cultural Centre opened on 19th July. The 170-tonne structure, which was designed by White Arkitekter working in partnership with London-based architects Sprunt, was constructed off-site at Tilbury Docks in Essex before being transported along the Thames and hoisted onto the pier head. The first new building since the devastating pier fire of 2005, the 350sq metre centre combines futuristic angled glass and

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steel and seats185 people with an artists’ studio, café and outdoor terrace. It will host a programme of cultural activities, bringing new cultural life to the promenade with a highlight for events being the glittering view at dusk towards Southend centre. To really get away with a team event, groups can escape amidst 200 private acres on Osea Island in the Blackwater estuary. The resort features a mix of accommodation from the luxurious 10 bedroom Manor House set a few steps from the beach, to a small hamlet of 14 beautifully appointed 17th Century cottages in the village. If you really prefer the rock star lifestyle, arrive at high tide, stay in four-poster suites in the manor house and cut your own track in the recording studio before battling in the billiards room and beachcombing for inspiration for your next album. The extensive grounds are suitable for barbeques or sports but if the weather turns, retreat to the Old Chapel, a double volume gallery which is now used as the dining room for large private functions.

UNUSUAL VENUES

OUT OF THE

BLUE Kristiana Kruysmulder unearths unusual event options now available.

Tamarind Restaurant in Mayfair offers Michelin-starred Indian cuisine in a refined setting. On entering the unassuming foyer, guests descend to the restaurant with glimmering gold pillars and a gilt speckled viewing window through which to observe the chefs hard at work in the kitchen. Signature dishes here include the mouth-watering tandoori king prawns, tender lamb cutlets with ginger, turmeric and dried mint and panfried fillet of sea bass with fine beans and raw mango.

Exclusive hire for 80 people takes over the whole restaurant with a drinks reception in the bar area, or utilise half the space for 50 diners. For larger groups who still want authentic Indian catering, Tamarind offer an award-winning external catering service that will wow guests at any chosen venue from 20 - 1,000 guests.

Chic black and red hamper boxes are a new offering, allowing either the traditional or contemporary menus to be enjoyed in an outdoor setting.

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UNUSUAL VENUES

Ever wanted to inflict fear into your sales team or reward those special performers with an once-in-a-lifetime experience? Merlin Events London has launched its brand new ‘Snorkelling with Sharks’ experience at The SEA LIFE London Aquarium. Lucky guests can now test their mettle by donning wetsuits and snorkelling masks to be submerged in the Pacific Reef Aquarium to see up to 15 sharks circle just feet away. No diving experience is necessary and as well as a full orientation, including some fascinating insights into the shark species resident, the exciting experience also includes a Behind the Scenes Tour of the inner workings of the Aquarium. At just £125.00 for the one and a half hour package (including a donation to the Shark Trust) all companies can afford to incorporate this bucket-list add-on.

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UNUSUAL VENUES

If you’d rather be on the water than in it, Cooks & Partners event catering and management company are delighted to announce a totally new autumn corporate entertainment experience: clay shooting on the Thames. With Olympic ambition high, entice your guests to try an unusual sport for an afternoon while enjoying a barbecue or reception with the city as your ever-changing backdrop. Whether for entertainment or team-building, guests onboard ‘The Wyndham’ river boat will enjoy an open top deck or an interior with full sound-system. Packages for up to 65 guests run from mid-September to end of October 2012. Prices start from £112.00 per person, and include: 5-6 hours cruising with a full crew, two hours of clay shooting with an instructor, full catering design and staffing. There’s even a fully stocked bar for those who find their aim needs a little help.

Chewton Glen country house hotel in Hampshire has risen to the challenge of incorporating modern accommodation with the inauguration of six tree houses of private suites. Accessed by golf cart from the main building, the tree houses are a feat of engineering, hovering on stilts between the valley and the forest canopy.

Each structure houses two suites, some with a mezzanine suitable for families. Natural wood and soft colours help disguise the suites amongst their surroundings, while floor-to-ceiling glass allows nature and light in. This is the ultimate getaway for those wanting a private escape with all the amenities of the five star hotel (think: spa to die for, meeting facilities and stunning de-formalised restaurant) combined with the independence of a kitchenette, private balcony and own hot tub.

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UNUSUAL VENUES

Or if you want historic in London Town, why not try Middle Temple Hall. Situated in the heart of London, yet with beautiful and secluded surroundings, the historic Middle Temple boasts one of the finest Elizabethan Halls in the country. Built in 1570, 101 feet long and 41 feet wide, it is spanned by a stunning double hammer beam ceiling. An impressive setting for receptions, dinners, dances, meetings, conferences and weddings. It’s award winning gardens overlook the River Thames making it ideal for receptions and marquees.

We here at Prestige love a good pop-up, so we were excited to hear that one of our favourite funky venues is getting into the swing this season. Altitude London in Millbank Tower now boasts a temporary event space, Skyloft until early 2013. With exposed brickwork and reclaimed wood flooring, it’s like a little piece of Shoreditch warehouse has landed on the Embankment. The usual killer views will impress up to 500 people for a party or 370 for a seated affair.

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If I had told you two years ago we’d all be clamouring to get into the London Hippodrome, who’d have believed me? This once illustrious 112-year-old West End venue saw stars such as Charlie Chaplin, Judy Garland and Stevie Wonder perform and now has re-opened triumphantly phoenix-like after a seven-year makeover costing more than £40 million. The painstaking renovation cost £600,000 alone on restoring Victorian plasterwork that was destroyed during a conversion in the 1950s. Welcome then, to the largest 24-hour casino in the country – with a main atrium casino floor, two further gambling floors, five bars, the Heliot restaurant, four private dining rooms for up to 50 people, the Matcham 200-seat cabaret theatre and a two-floor outdoor cigar and smoking terrace. The Matcham will feature a constantly changing program of musical entertainment, but is perfect for daytime presentations or conferences. Frankly, if it’s good enough for Stevie Wonder, it’s good enough for us.

IN THE TRADE

IN THE TRADE WITH...

Emma Jordan, Event manager at Last Word Events

A result’s orientated individual with excellent organisational and project management skills with a wide-range of business experience of sales and marketing, business development, event planning and excellent client relationship skills. A very good communicator highly motivated and integrator at all levels with lateral thinking ability, well developed interpersonal skills and a strong drive for quality and excellence. Inspired by real challenges, a team player able to inject enthusiasm and humour whilst focusing on outstanding results.

Q/ What was the inspiration behind you getting involved in corporate events?

I have worked in the hospitality industry for 20 years, from hotels and manager of Michelin star restaurants. I then decided I wanted to be an event manger, because it’s a really interesting business, every day is different.

Q/ How do you prepare for a big event day?

Speak with the venue to ensure all is okay, speak with all suppliers, and be on site early to manage all deliveries, issue a full event programme to all.

Q/ What preparation goes into your service?

Lots of preparation and planning, working with all suppliers and venue, to ensure everybody has all the information they need, full event promgrams for all to include all

timings and set up areas.

Q/ You have a varied client portfolio. Care to name a few? And what do you feel was the defining factor in establishing your relationships?

Beckham Wedding Elton John Financial News Gordon Ramsey Gary Rhodes Relationships are easy if clients trust you, people like people.

Q/ What’s it like working with such big-name clients?

Every client is the same Q/ How important a role does ‘COOL’ play in events?

Cool is not in events, its hard work, some people thinks it’s cool Q/ What would you like to see happen in the corporate events industry in the next 12 months?

I would hope that things will pick up, I feel the industry is getting better and the financial business have more budgets compared to last year.

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A-Z OF CORPORATE EVENTS

A-Z OF CORPORATE EVENTS Each year we update our A-Z of corporate events. With a mix of the serious and the irreverent, it always makes good reading and says what’s on everyone’s lips!

A – Audio / AV

Don’t get this one wrong as there is nothing as bad as a venue and event that makes the person in the 5th row feel like they are on planet Mars.

B- Branding

Understand your currency value and your target audience. In 2012’s economy too much emphasis has been pushed towards sales and business owners have forgotten that the car needs fuel in the tank.

C – Catering

Catering means ‘CATER’. I don’t know how many more awards evenings we are going to have to attend where we get served up bum-warm wine on reception, and for dinner rubber chicken and elderly-people’s home gravy.

As an industry, we often look at the bottom line too closely and forget that your audience is full of rivals and bitches waiting to take your client. #GET IT RIGHT.

D- Dance Floors

The dancefloor is oone of the most undervalued things in events. An event can be saved by it’s dancefloor. Venues who have a LED or chess-board dancefloor in storage and yet wondering why they lost a client might do well to offer their prospective client this offering. Put this in the middle of your event and watch everyone become a teenager once again. #YOU WERE WARNED

E – Extended Licences

What does the Mayor not understand? We are an economy that is suffering. Our sub-pysche wants escapism and yet you have to cross blue moons to obtain a late-night licence. This is best demonstrated by the Olympics. The world came to party (or at least foreign nations Olympians did) and we close the West End at midnight. Big boobie Boris. #GET IT RIGHT

F – Floristry

What’s not to love about flowers? Even our Olympians look good with a posie! The Chelsea Flower Show demonstrates the appeal of flowers…and they smell bloody great too. So get them on the top of your event to-do list.

G – Graphics

(see Branding earlier). By getting your graphics right, you can raise the perception of your event. In an age where every college kid and senior citizen is a mac wizard, you can smell like a million dollars by emulating the big brands if you get your graphics right. Also, Invest in sponsors walls at your events, create a paparazzi area. Watch your currency value-points shoot up. Remember, the front is the first and last thing your clients see.

H – Health and Safety

Pain in the arse. That’s four words wasted and time better spent doing something else les boring instead.

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A-Z OF CORPORATE EVENTS

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A-Z OF CORPORATE EVENTS

I - Insurance

The last thing on your event plan (alongside event security) and yet one of the first things that should be on it.

Seemples, your event goes tits-up when a client does a diva-strop or the event is cancelled, or they decide to pay you for the foundation work only…you need protection (Ed: you sound like one of those annoying Go Compare commercials).

J – Journalists

A must on your event list. If your speed-dial doesn’t have the who’s-who of journalists uploaded, all the effort put into making the event a success will have gone to waste.

After all, outta sight outta mind!

K – Kabuki Reveal

A classic theatrical technique originating from Japanese Kabuki theatre where a drape is quickly released to reveal something behind. It’s a great way to reveal performers, a product or a stage set whilst creating a real wow moment. It’s easily scalable to reveal anything from a building or passenger jet to more intimate items such as a solitary performer on stage.

As well as the straightforward Kubuki drop there are a couple of variations that can add some extra magic.

The ‘Double Kabuki’ where the Kabuki drape itself is released and unfurls into position prior to be being released later on for the second reveal. This works really well for stage change-overs where you dramatically close one act and then reveal the next.

Second is the ‘Reverse Kabuki’ where the drape goes up instead of down. This can be achieved using a quick release counter weight system that quickly pulls the drape up into a large tube via a pull wire.

You can add further impact to your Kabuki reveal with the use of an effect such as a pyrotechnics hit or sound effect on the moment of release as the kabuki itself is usually fairly quiet. (courtesy of Attila Keskin of Designscene)

L – Lighting

Starcloth drapes!!!!! Arrgghh!! They are so passé. Enlist the services of a professional lighting company and you’ll be walking around accepting all the plaudits and making out like you did all the work #YOU WERE WARNED.

M – Meetings / Motivation

How many times have you phoned someone to be told, “They’re in a meeting!?” At least 60 per cent of manager’s time is spent in meetings. Research in one large organisation discovered that the figure could be as high as 90 per cent. And another survey found that many managers consider meetings they attend to be a waste of time.’

Why do meetings waste so much time? Or more importantly how can you run motivational meetings, saving time and increasing effectiveness. Whether you have a meeting for a handful of people or a conference for many hundreds, there are some rules to greatly increase the motivation and effectiveness of the meeting and return far greater return on investment. Here are four simple steps to increasing motivation in meetings;

1. Only hold meetings when you have to. Be really sure that the meeting is needed and that it has a clear objective that is shared and delivered.

2. Start the meeting on time. Create a respectful culture of being on time - don’t wait for latecomers.

3. Have a clear structured agenda. Keep people moving through the agenda and be respectful of relevant ideas, but not chit-chat or people hijacking the meeting.

4. Make meetings fun and engaging. Supply healthy snacks, drinks, fruit and consider a fun ice-breaker activity.

Let one of the team chair the meeting occasionally (as long as they control the agenda). Allow people to create energy, enthusiasm and ownership.

According to Alan Fairweather, Author and Coach, ‘Motivational Managers run structured meetings with clear objectives where people have fun and resultantly contribute and get things done’. Be in no doubt, being able to run a structured and motivating meeting is a great business skill to have, few do, but most can learn.

The value in running effective meetings is described by Lee Etheridge, International Director of Education & Brand Ambassador for Bare Escentuals, who has worked with PJ Stevens of Leap for some 8 years, ‘’Investing time in our Beauty Ambassadors though motivational meetings and seminars has been a key contributor to the growth of BE in the UK. It contributes to the feeling of being valued within the organisation and has enabled us to develop ways to understand what’s needed to get closer to the consumer.’’

Mark Ramm, of Compound Thinking notes, ‘The right way to use motivational meetings is to reaffirm the purposes of the group, and help people to consistently connect the dots between their individual efforts and the collective goals of the group.’ In addition he states that, ‘Motivating people is easy: Give them work that is meaningful to them and to the organization, and treat them with respect’.

To this end if you make meetings meaningful and deliver them in a respectful fashion, you automatically increase the motivational value of the meeting.

Research has shown that one question most highly correlated with motivation and performance is: Does my supervisor seem to care about me as a person? Which is another way of saying does your boss respect you. At the same time the single highest correlation for any question was: I get to do what I do best everyday at work. So, it’s really important to align people’s intrisic skills and internal long-term motivational drivers with the work you ask them to do. Failure to pay attention to these, wastes time and money.

Externally we can impact on the motivation of meetings by providing creative, fresh or high performance environments for participants. This can be done by choosing motivational or inspiring venues or meeting rooms, fun icebreaker activities, putting a Ferrari in the hotel foyer, book an appropriate (motivational) speaker who can help ‘join the dots’, buy some fruit or by physically doing something differently to open participants minds – as the saying goes, if you want something different, do something differently.

At Leap, we believe people are amazing and a company’s greatest resource, invest in them – through motivational meetings – and they will invest in the business.

Remember, it’s people who drive a business forwards, or slow it down.

(Courtesy of Paul J Stevens www.leapplc.com, Developing people, performance & productivity).

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A-Z OF CORPORATE EVENTS

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A-Z OF CORPORATE EVENTS

N- Nazi’s

Message to David Cameron and Locog. The Olympics was great for 2 weeks for those in the seats and armchairs, but that was just it…2 weeks. It should have been a 6 week carnival, but you had the Nazi brigade out in their cheap uniforms killing any engaged shared experience amongst the public by enforcing fines left, right, and centre for anyone displaying so much as a five rings donut display in their shop window! SO WHO WANTS TO RISK A £5000 FINE? For the events industry the lack of feeling ‘part of it’ proved disastrous. Big applause all round for the powers that be.

O –Olympics

See letter N above, but also see Olympics feature in this edition.

P – Premieres

Film premieres became one of the biggest excuses this year for a big corporate night out. Batman, etc, took over Leicester Square in an unprecedented fashion with bigger than ever budgets.

Q – Queen’s Jubilee

A great example to any event organizer in staying away from an inward looking perspective and allowing everyone to share the experience (even if it is pouring down rain and you have to stand there and wave thanks or put up with Cheryl Cole’s awful singing).

S – Set Up (pre-event)

See letter R. Make sure you also have the entire arrive in plenty of good time for your event. Better to have the event all set-up and go for a coffee than behave loose and create a cock-up.

T – Theming

A theme will - if everything else is executed as it should – take your event to another level. Stuck behind your desk for 1/3 of your life, we all seek a bit of escapism. Create a theme.

U – Unforgetteable

See article by Simon T Bailey in this edition on creating unforgettableness! A must-read.

V – Venues

A cool venue is a must in this economic climate. Some clients may state that they must be careful in their public perception but that doesn’t mean they want boring. #KEEP THE CLIENT

W – Website

Create a website for your event. It doesn’t cost as much as you’d believe. And it gives your event the level of prestige factor which you desire. Or you can wait til your rival puts it in their presentation to your client!

R – Rehearsals

When budgets are tighter than ever and clients are sparser than ever, get it right…REHEARSE.

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A-Z OF CORPORATE EVENTS

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A-Z OF CORPORATE EVENTS

X – X marks The Spot

A handy little form the world of stage. Get the gaffer tape out and tape ‘markers’ on the floor. It helps tremendously with filming and photography and can also be used to create drama, eg: stage entrances. Remember, if the cast know where to be, that’s where they’ll be. #BE THE DIRECTOR

Y – Yabba Dabba Doo!!

…you haven’t got a Scooby doo, but never let it show. Be humble to a confidant. Get a mentor. Everyone started somewhere.

Z – zzzzzzzz…..

Book accommodation for staff and guests. Cut a deal with a nearby hotel. This way they’ll stay late and the event’s objectives will be that much more successful.

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20/20 “HERITAGE VENUES” SPEED NETWORKING-TUDOR BARN ELTHAM

20/20 HERITAGE VENUES

SPEED NETWORKING Tudor Barn Eltham www.tudorbarneltham.com Wednesday 18th April 2012

EVENT SYNOPSIS: This 20/20 speed networking event was a micro-version of the normal schedule with 10x10-minute meetings instead of 20x10-minute meetings.

10 corporate event buyers with a need and open-mind for ‘heritage venues’ speed-networking with 10 suppliers representing heritage venues.

ABOUT THE VENUE: Tudor Barn Eltham is all that remains of the country mansion that was built for William Roper and Margaret More, daughter of Thomas More, Lord Chancellor to Henry VIII and is surrounded by a medieval moat and nearby scented gardens.

The venue is situated in thirteen acres of beautiful award winning gardens and has stood on this ancient site, which is connected historically with the tudor monarch’s residence at nearby Eltham Palace, since 1525.

Sir Gregory Page acquired the Well Hall Estates from the Roper family in 1733 and a new house was built between the moat and Well Hall Road. Its most famous occupant was the famous children’s author Edith Nesbit, who wrote the The Railway Children, and lived here from 1899 until 1922.

The 16th Century Tudor Barn is a haven of rural peace just 20 minutes from central London and is a fantastic destination venue for excellent food and drinks as well as being the perfect setting to host events includings, parties, conferences, special occasions, weddings, and wakes.

THE BUYERS INCLUDED: Credit Suisse London Chamber of Commerce Nickleodeon KPMG EMAP Skadden Arps Jeremy Sillett / OPM Moelis & Company Mazars

20/20

speed networking – the ultimate b2b forum

Venue: Tudor Barn Date: 18th April 2012

Theme: Heritage Venues

EVENT SPONSORS:

THE SUPPLIERS INCLUDED: Tudor Barn Eltham St Pauls Cathderal Warwick Castle Fulham Palace Weston Park Ragley Hall Searcy Amazing Retreats PRODUCED BY:

Synopsis: 20 blue-chip event decision-makers meet 20 charismatic event venues and agencies

Where like-minded ndividuals meet

prestigeeventsguide.com Official photographer: Matt Chung

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20/20

speed networking – the ultimate b2b forum

Venue: Tudor Barn Date: 18th April 2012 Theme: Heritage Venues Synopsis: 20 blue-chip event decision-makers meet 20 charismatic event venues and agencies Where like-minded individuals meet

Official photographer: Matt Chung

20/20

peed networking – e ultimate b2b forum

20/20 “HOT SUPPLIERS” SPEED NETWORKING-RHODES W1

20/20 HOT SUPPLIERS

SPEED NETWORKING Rhodes W1 at The Cumberland Hotel www.rhodesw1.com Wednesday 23rd May 2012 0900am-14.00pm

EVENT SYNOPSIS: 20 corporate event buyers with a need and open-mind for ‘the HOTtest event agencies’, speed-networking with 20 suppliers representing event agencies.

ABOUT THE VENUE: Gary Rhodes has opened restaurants across the world. Now, he’s brought all his extraordinary skill, passion and dedication to The Cumberland hotel – a modern style icon and one of London’s largest hotels where bustling Oxford Street meets glamorous Park Lane, . His creativity and legendary attention to detail have made our flagship Rhodes W1 Restaurant one of London’s most desirable places to dine. Intimate yet welcoming. Innovative yet accessible. And since the first bite is with the eye, we commissioned renowned British interior designer Kelly Hoppen to create the décor. Its perfect marriage of style, service and superlative food and drink has earned it a coveted Michelin star. Which, in this business, is how you really make a name for yourself.

THE BUYERS INCLUDED: Yahoo!

Barclays Anglo American Nike PWC HMRC Lipsy RBC Dexia HMRC

EVENT SPONSORS:

THE SUPPLIERS INCLUDED: MCL Europe Motivaction Chillisauce EFX Corporate Awards and Trophies Foodshow London Speaker Bureau Gallowglass Concerto Group Partridge EventS PRODUCED BY:

nue: Rhodes ate: 23rd May 2012

eme: t Suppliers

nopsis: 20 blue-chip ent decision-makers eet 20 charismatic encies

here like-minded dividuals meet

Official photographer: Matt Chung

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20/20

speed networking – the ultimate b2b forum

Venue: Rhodes Date: 23rd May 2012 Theme: Hot Suppliers Synopsis: 20 blue-chip event decision-makers meet 20 charismatic agencies Where like-minded individuals meet

Official photographer: Matt Chung

20/20 “EAST LONDON VENUES” SPEED NETWORKING-DE VERE CANARY WHARF

20/20 EAST LONDON VENUES

SPEED NETWORKING De Vere Canary Wharf www.deverevenues.co.uk/locations/canary-wharf Tuesday 29th May 2012 / 0900am-14.00pm

EVENT SYNOPSIS: 20 corporate event buyers with a need and open-mind for ‘the most charismatic venues in East London’, speednetworking with 20 East London Venues.

ABOUT THE VENUE: Flooded with natural light and full of the latest high-tech facilites, you’ll find all the inspiration you need at this state-ofthe-art conference, training and meeting venue. Whether you’re planning a one-to-one meeting or a larger event with up to 400 delegates, they can arrange one of their 13 flexible business meeting rooms to give you exactly what you need. If you want to continue in more informal surroundings, try one of the private dining rooms at their Steam, Bake and Grill Restaurant or let them organise evening cocktails for you and your guests. According to Prestige Events magazine’s influential list, Canary Wharf is now officially one of the ‘COOLest Restaurants in the UK’. And with Central London just 25 minutes by train (Westferry DLR) or tube (Jubilee Line), it’s closer than you’d think. If you fancy a river trip, take the fast ferry (every 15 mins) into town or down to Woolwich and stop off at many places along the Thames. Canary Wharf is the ideal venue for your business.

THE BUYERS INCLUDED: Credit Suisse Barclays PWC Citibank Cantor Fitzgerald Haymarket BP Oil Beavis Morgan Berendsen Kier

EVENT SPONDORS:

THE SUPPLIERS INCLUDED: De Vere Canary Wharf The O2 ETC Venues CCT speed Venues networking – CEME the ultimate b2b forum Fabric Top Golf 40/30 at The Gherkin Venue: De Vere Canary Christchurch in Spitafields Wharf Fish Island Formans Date: 29th May 2012 City Pavilion Gilwell Park Theme: Proud East2London and Essex Doubletree Venues Hilton London Eastside Synopsis: 20 blue-chip Tudor Barn Eltham

20/20

event decision-makers

PRODUCED BY: meet 20 charismatic event venues and agencies Where like-minded individuals meet

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20/20

speed networking – the ultimate b2b forum

Venue: De Vere Canary Wharf Date: 29th May 2012 Theme: East London and Essex Venues Synopsis: 20 blue-chip event decision-makers meet 20 charismatic event venues and agencies Where like-minded individuals meet

Official photographer: Matt Chung

20/20

peed networking – e ultimate b2b forum

nue: London Film useum te: 19th July 2012

eme: ambuilding and utdoor Events

nopsis: 20 blue-chip ent decision-makers eet 20 charismatic ent venues and encies

here like-minded dividuals meet

Official photographer: Matt Chung

20/20 “PARTIES AND EVENTS @NIGHT” SPEED NETWORKING-CANNON BRIDGE ROOF GARDENS

20/20 PARTIES AND EVENTS @ NIGHT SPEED NETWORKING Cannon Bridge Roof Gardens www.cannonbridgeroofgardens.com Wednesday 13th June 2012 / 0900am-14.00pm EVENT SYNOPSIS: 20 corporate event buyers with a need and open-mind for ‘the most charismatic parties and evening hospitality venues’, speed-networking with 20 likeminded venues.

ABOUT THE VENUE: A breath of fresh air in the heart of the city…

One of the most desirable hospitality venues in London, the Cannon Bridge Roof Gardens guarantees to take your clients and colleagues breath away. High above the busy streets of Central London running alongside the Thames, the roof gardens provide sensational views of landmarks such as The Shard, Tower Bridge, and St Pauls Catherdal. An acre of deluxe gardens are accompanied by a luxurious, award-winning, glass-fronted marquee to provide an inspiring venue.

Delivering a unique environment for your event, whether it being a champagne reception, summer party, seated dinner, or any other type of event that lends itself this exceptional venue. Managed exclusively by Diamond City Events.

THE BUYERS INCLUDED: Fox Television Invesco DRP Group RBS Deutsche Bank National Geographic Channel Subway Rothschild Thomson Reuters RBC Capital Brit Insurance Capgemini Financial Services

EVENT SPONSORS:

THE SUPPLIERS INCLUDED: Cannon Bridge Roof Gardens Concerto Group Café de Paris Chinawhite Late Night London Fabric The 02 Proud Indigo 2 Searcys London Film Museum Bloomsbury Big Top Fulham Palace Top Golf Hoxton Pony Playboy Club Formans Fish Island The May Fair Saatchi Gallery IET Savoy Place PRODUCED BY:

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20/20

speed networking – the ultimate b2b forum

Venue: Cannon Bridge Roof Gardens Date: 13th June 2012 Theme: Parties and Events at Night Synopsis: 20 blue-chip event decision-makers meet 20 charismatic event venues and agencies Where like-minded individuals meet

Official photographer: Matt Chung

20/20

peed networking – e ultimate b2b forum

nue: London Film useum te: 19th July 2012

eme: ambuilding and utdoor Events

nopsis: 20 blue-chip ent decision-makers eet 20 charismatic ent venues and encies

here like-minded dividuals meet

Official photographer: Matt Chung

20/20 “TEAMBUILDING AND OUTDOOR EVENTS” SPEED NETWORKING-LONDON FILM MUSEUM

20/20 TEAMBUILDING AND OUTDOOR EVENTS SPEED NETWORKING

London Film Museum, Covent Garden www.londonfilmmuseum.com Thursday 12th July 2012 / 0900am-14.00pm EVENT SYNOPSIS: 20 corporate event buyers with a need and open-mind for ‘the most charismatic teambuilding and outdoor events venues’, speed-networking with 20 likeminded venues.

ABOUT THE VENUE: LFM Venues and Events experience in the industry goes back over 15 years, when founder Jonathan Sands began working with the Weird and Wonderful prop Company in 1996, which he later purchased in 2001.

He has produced hundreds of events from here to Monaco often from design to execution, including film premieres, press launches, live concerts and theatre production.

LFM has an extraordinary network of talent on hand to ensure that every event is executed smoothly and successfully, culminating in a very unusual event service. Add to this the benefit of representing the London Film Museum located in two of London prime hotspots, Covent Garden, and The South Bank, supported by the London Film Experience, a state of the art production support service, LFM Venues and Events is truly unique.

THE BUYERS INCLUDED: Singapore Tourism Board Noble Foods Group Accenture Deloitte Unilever Bank of America Santander Rule Financial Rymans Stationery UK Payments

EVENT SPONSORS:

THE SUPPLIERS INCLUDED: Top Golf London Film Museum The 02 Go Ape LEAP Song Corp Thorpe Park Sno!Zone Sundial Hedsor House Legoland Eventwise Chillisauce Tastour Hedsor House Bruntingthorpe Four Pillars Tastour Eclipse Sports PRODUCED BY:

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20/20

speed networking – the ultimate b2b forum

Venue: London Film Museum Date: 19th July 2012 Theme: Teambuilding and Outdoor Events Synopsis: 20 blue-chip event decision-makers meet 20 charismatic event venues and agencies Where like-minded individuals meet

Official photographer: Matt Chung

20/20 “CATERERS” SPEED NETWORKING- THE PENTHOUSE

20/20 CATERERS

SPEED NETWORKING The Penthouse www.thepenthouselondon.com Wednesday 18th July 2012

EVENT SYNOPSIS: This 20/20 speed networking event was a micro-version of the normal schedule with 10x10-minute meetings instead of 20x10-minute meetings.

10 corporate event buyers with a need and open-mind for ‘charismatic caterers’ speed-networking with 10 suppliers representing likeminded catering agencies.

ABOUT THE VENUE: One of the most unique venues London has to offer, The Penthouse can cater for the most demanding of clubbers or the very best in corporate entertainment. Penthouse set high above Leicester Square boasts some of the most stunning views of central London over three levels. The Penthouse Events Management team is a world-class event team dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences. Working for some of the world’s leading brands and a wide range of discerning private clients, they offer a boutique service and have unique access to outstanding suppliers, contacts, and a wealth of event ideas. The Penthouse 7th Floor Bar & Kitchen, set high above heart of London, is the perfect place to relax before a show or on the way home from the office. At The Penthouse you can enjoy a complete dinner in stunning surroundings with breathtaking views of Central London. Sit back and enjoy a selection of world cuisine prepared by our international Chefs, headed by Brian Sulivan, or try one of our hand crafted Penthouse cocktails as you watch the world go by. All dinning guests enjoy complimentary entry to our world famous Penthouse Club. 2011 COOL Venue Awards winner. Perfect for private and corporate parties, film shoots/locations, wedding services. Etc.

THE BUYERS INCLUDED: Santander Bauer Media The Guardian The Literary Review Fitch Ratings Sunflower Corp Travel Channel International Deloitte Freshfields Active International Association of British Healthcare Industries

EVENT SPONSORS:

20/20

speed networking –

THE the SUPPLIERS ultimate b2b INCLUDED: forum Office Diner The Recipe Foodshow Venue: The Penthouse Nomad Food and Design Date:Stop 19th July 2012 One Moving Venue Theme: Concerto Group Caterers Purple Grape Tastour Synopsis: Synopsis: 20 blue-chip DW Events event decision-makers meet 20 charismatic event

PRODUCED venues and BY: agencies Where like-minded individuals meet

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Official photographer:

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20/20

speed networking – the ultimate b2b forum

Venue: The Penthouse Date: 19th July 2012 Theme: Caterers Synopsis: Synopsis: 20 blue-chip event decision-makers meet 20 charismatic event venues and agencies Where like-minded individuals meet

Official photographer: Matt Chung

20/20 EVENT CALENDAR

FUTURE 20/20 NETWORKING EVENTS FOR YOUR DIARY …BUT HURRY TO REGISTER AS PLACES ARE LIMITED TO JUST 20 PLACES, PER EVENT, FOR EVENT BUYERS. 12th September 2012 Non-London venues (venue: The Folly) 17th October 2012 Central London venues (venue: RICS) 21st November 2012 Unique Venues (venue: The Hempel) 17th January 2013 Conferences (venue: Dexter House) 24th January 2013 Caterers 10/10 (venue: 40/30 at The Gherkin) 21st February 2013 COOL Venues (venue: De Vere Canary Wharf) 14th March 2013 Team Building/Outdoor Events (venue: Regents College) 26th March 2013 Academic & Medical Venues (venue: Royal College of Physicians) 18th April 2013 West London Venues (Fulham Palace) 25th April 2013 Film Location Venues (venue: Tobacco Dock)

with the right sort of companies there to pitch/introduce themselves. I felt it was a great use of my time. Would do it again. Thank you. - Visda Scott, United Biscuits “Thank you very much for organising yesterday. Great event” - Leonie Porter, Credit Suisse “A big thank you for inviting us to your 20/20 networking event. It was a good effective day to meet various suppliers. The food and venue was superb. All thanks to your team for the hardwork in putting it all together. I know it’s not easy. Well done!” - Sheila Miranda, Unilever “It’s been a good event and good value. It’s about the quality of the meetings, not the quantity” - Isla Mckenzie, Ministry of Sound “Very impressive. Had some great leads” – Sarah McQueen, 40/30 at The Gherkin “It was a really great event. All the buyers I met were of a high quality and were genuinely interested in hearing more about the London Eastside area and the range of venues and hotels etc located in it for their future events and meetings. I would not hesitate in signing up to upcoming 20/20 events!” – Rob Ellwood, London Eastside TAKE A LOOK AT OUR YOUTUBE VIDEO CHANNEL TO SEE PREVIOUS 20/20 SPEED NETWORKING EVENTS TO DISCOVER WHY BUYERS AND SUPPLIERS ALIKE PREFER 20/20 SPEED NETWORKING TO ANY OTHER SPEED NETWORKING EVENT.

8th - 9th May 2013 Residential (2 day event) (Weston Park) 6th June 2013 Parties & Events at Night (venue: Ministry of Sound) 20th June 2013 Heritage Venues (venue: TBC) TESTIMONIALS “I thought the event was really worthwhile, and I’ve now got so many people I want to meet and follow up with.

Thank you so much for letting me be part of a successful event” - Hayley Saunders, Deloitte

http://www.youtube.com/user/TVCorporateEvents WITH PLACES STRICTLY MILITED TO JUST 20 EVENT BUYERS, DON’T FORGET TO APPLY OR REGISTER YOUR INTEREST AT ENQUIRIES@PRESTIGEEVENTSGUIDE.COM OR JOANNA@ PRESTIGEEVENTSGUIDE.COM OR CALL 01708737393 20/20 SPEED NETWORKING IS PRODUCED BY:

“Was what I needed. I met the right match of suppliers and all in only half a day” – Esther Bernaldo De Quiros, Experian “Well presented. I have taken away many positives’ – Jackie Witter, HSBC “Thank you so much for inviting us. The venue was stunning and the food was superb.We established some great contacts. Do keep us in touch for any similar events in the future.”

- Elicia Nairn, Teenage Cancer Trust “Thank you so much for yesterday. It was a great idea

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SPONSORED BY

OFFICE

Network with thousands of PAs and EAs at office* 2012

Returning for its third year, office* is the essential event for PAs, EAs and Office Managers. A visit will provide you with all you need to excel and develop in your career.

to relax with the help of a world-leading cosmetic brand, and the Uniball Café – network and enjoy a break from the show floor.

Ryman Stationery, Grosvenor Business Travel, CitySprint and the London Chamber of Commerce are just a some of the big name first time exhibitors preparing to meet over 4,000 office* visitors on 12-13 September at the new venue of Olympia, London.

Alongside the exhibition sits office*’s 32-strong, 4-theatre, seminar and master class training programme which promises to provide visitors with a wealth of invaluable tools and practical solutions, which can be taken away and implemented in their office immediately.

Already the go-to show for office professionals wishing to utilise the latest tools, products, services, and technologies they need to meet the unique challenges of their constantly evolving roles, the 2012 event promises to be bigger and better than ever. One of the show’s key draws is its dynamic exhibitor line-up and this year’s is no exception, with an impressive number of new business-to-business suppliers ready to mark their show debut with a host of new innovations for this important buying group.

Lead by top industry experts including senior trainers from Hemsley Fraser and Reed Learning, each session is great value for money – just £39 plus VAT for one, £99 plus VAT for a 1 day pass or £139 plus VAT for 2 days.

Within the exhibition visitors will be able to enjoy bespoke villages including the new HBAA Village – already sold out with space taken by companies including Midlandsbased venue sourcing agency Conference Care; and Ellis Salsby, one of the leading conference and hotel reservations companies in the UK. Other exciting returning features include the AIM Accredited Destinations and Venue Village – featuring venues from across the UK, the benefit Pamper Parlour – a chance

Topics being covered include successful networking, personal effectiveness, saving time with Microsoft and tips for managing multiple bosses.

Entry to the exhibition is free of charge, including entry to the Keynote Theatre where visitors will be able to hear inspirational free Keynotes from Deborah Meaden of Dragons’ Den fame, and Penni Pike, Richard Branson’s Executive Personal Assistant of 31 years amongst others. office* is taking place at the new venue of London’s Olympia on Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 September.

To register free in advance, please visit www.officeshow. co.uk and quote priority code OFF455.

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CATERING TRENDS: STREET FOOD

STREETFOOD

WRITTEN BY EMILY GILLAN OF PURPLE GRAPE A major trend in catering that has been taking London (if not the world) by storm these past couple of years, and is set to get bigger, is Street Food. When I think of street food, my imagination conjures up memories of the streetside food sellers in Ubud (Bali), serving freshly roasted Babi Guling (roasted suckling pig with a variety of fiery spices, coconut and jackfruit) from their little portable grill usually covered with a piece of wrought iron roofing.

According to The Food People (www.thefoodpeople. co.uk), street food is consumed by a whopping 2.5 billion people per day. There is a real desire in London, branching out to the rest of the UK, for getting fresh, delicious food quickly for the generation on the go. Everyone wants to ‘discover’ a new taste, a hidden secret of tasty convenience, before other people cotton on to it, encouraging a boom in little independent street food sellers popping up all over the capital selling anything from Tacos to Chat, Gyros to Roti.

With these foods in mind you can really see why everyone wants street food at their events. Its less formal, provides unusual options to the normal canapé provisions and really gets the guests interacting with each other.

So while the events we cater for are not actually in an East Asian market or a Mexican Tequila shack, with street sellers competing over each other to get the guests to try their food, we work our hardest each time to give the guests a similar experience, from the variety of street food served, to the stalls dressed in swathes of bright material and pots of spices complete with staff in traditional East Asian dress.

With the scene set, the food can then provide an interactive experience for the guests to really get stuck into and hopefully, for a moment they will feel that they really are in a little corner of the world, off the beaten track, discovering a hidden gem in street food.

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UNFORGETTABLE

CREATING UNFORGETTABLENESS In the future, service businesses will be paid for the experiences they create and for the differences they make. Simply meeting demands and sticking to a tried-and-true formula just won’t cut it these days.

That’s why, for all of you in this industry, unforgettable is essential; unforgettable is the magic word, the Holy Grail; unforgettable is the answer. Unforgettable is also achievable. Here are three ways to get there.

The choice to create unforgettable moments is a daily decision. Choose wisely.

Simon T. Bailey, is a Thought Catalyst and Leader of the Release Your Brilliance and The Vuja de Moment movement. Visit www.simontbailey.com for more information.

1) Conduct a comprehensive, 360-degree internal assessment of your company. Starting with the people you hire, ask these questions and seek real truth: What is it we really do?

What kind of solutions do we provide?

Why us, why now?

What do our customers see about us that we’re not seeing?

What’s working and what’s not?

Knowing you have only three seconds to make an impression, pay attention to details – the way the phone is answered, the look and feel of your website, how your product is marketed, the way your people dress, etc.

Unforgettable, like the devil, is in the details.

2) Understand that in this business you are a storyteller. Simply put, it’s the story you co-create with your customers which brands you as unforgettable in their hearts and minds. Your customers’ stories must become your stories. What do I mean? After checking into a hotel in New Orleans recently, room service delivered a nice assortment of cheeses and some wine. Lovely, right? The problem is, anyone who knows me knows I’d much rather have milk and cookies – snack food. After sending the wine and cheese back and revealing my preference, I later returned to my room and found a wonderful assortment of Zapp’s potato chips and soft drinks. I have to admit, I savored every single bag of those amazing chips and thought about how great the service at that hotel was the whole time. The point is, what started out as nice became more – it became a moment, it became a story I love to tell.

So, what stories are you creating?

3) If you’ve done it, re-think it. If it’s the same old, same old, replace it. If it’s déjà vu, then turn it around - vuja de it. What do I mean by that? Look at your services differently, question every process, imagine the unimaginable, go for the gold!

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SUPPLIER FOCUS: SPEAKERS FOR BUSINESS

PASSING YOU

THE OLYMPIC FLAME It’s been a long lead up to the Olympics and they haven’t let us down. We still have the Paralympics and now that we are all warmed up we will be very much looking forward to more gold medals.

But what happens when it’s all over? The legacy we hope will be to get more of us out of our chairs and playing sport but what about business? Well part of the legacy is to learn from the great achievements of the amazing athletes and trainers who took part. There have been parallels made between sports and business since motivational speakers first took to the stage; teamwork; performance;

preparation; focus and total commitment are important in both sport and business.

As we struggle through this recession let’s keep the celebrations going by offering you some of the best of the best as keynote speakers for your conferences and events.

Here’s just a small selection of our great Olympians you might want to hear from at your next conference or training meeting. If you do please contact Maria Franzoni at The London Speaker Bureau: maria@londonspeakerbureau.co.uk or tel: 01483 576228

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SUPPLIER FOCUS

eam Building:

op 10 tips by Eventwise

With so many team building companies and products out there, running an effective team building programme can be difficult even for the most experienced. Here are our top 10 tips to help you implement an effective team building programme:

1. Set clear objectives: It is advised that you have a face-to-face meeting with the supplier to ensure they are aware of the objectives you are trying to achieve. Don’t be afraid to discuss your objectives for the entire event, often seeing where the team building fits into the overall event can help improve the effectiveness of it.

2. Choose the right activity: Many team building activities are enticing by their names and themes but do not necessarily deliver on any level other than fun and ‘general team building’. A reputable supplier should be able to offer you advice on how their games will benefit your team and help meet your objectives.

3. Feedback to your delegates: A simple overview of what they should have experienced and learned during the game can dramatically increase the effectiveness of it.

4. Choose the right venue: The right venue can help set the tone of the event; the right location can improve attendance and the right facilities for your programme help streamline the organisation process.

5. Use a reputable company: Many companies offer team building and it is important that you can trust your supplier. If in doubt ask for references and examples of previous work.

6. Work on attendance levels: Simple measures like inviting delegates early, holding the event on a weekday, making the event compulsory and providing transport solutions will help improve attendances.

7. Buy Better: It is always worth shopping around, obtaining a few quotes to find the best price.

8. Pay per head: If budgets are being squeezed, insist you pay the supplier on a per head basis. This means you can book on a minimum number and hopefully reduce the overall event cost.

9. Allow adequate time in your event schedule: When planning the event schedule work with your team building supplier to allow adequate time.

10. Get feedback: Obtaining feedback after the event from delegates is vital in learning the dynamics of the group you

are working with and is key to improving your team building programmes year on year.

Eventwise is one of the UK’s most experienced team building companies offering a wealth of experience and knowledge alongside market leading products. For more details please contact them on 0845 437 9432 or email people@eventwise. co.uk.

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VENUE FOCUS: CAFE` DE PARIS

THROUGH AND THROUGH COOL 82

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VENUE FOCUS: CAFE` DE PARIS

In the heart of Piccadilly, CafĂŠ de Paris is a dazzling and opulent venue superb for hosting all types of events.

Following a venue facelift this summer which included re-locating the stage to its original position, installing a brand new sound system and bespoke brand new furniture for the mezzanine, the space glitters even more than before!

Cafe de Paris is a genuinely stunning event space, maintained as a valentine to its period heyday, this iconic Grade II listed building is complete with grand sweeping staircases, pillars and enormous glittering chandeliers. The magnificent rooms and their unrivalled longevity mean that Cafe de Paris has thrown some of the most lavish parties London has ever seen.

The peerless main space is based on the ballroom of the RMS Lusitania and can accommodate theatre style seating, cabaret style dining or of course, standing/dancing. The exclusive mezzanine level forms part of the main ballroom making the creation of VIP or themed areas an easy task for any event organiser. Clients always have exclusivity when they hire the venue which also means that the three private rooms, the Red Bar, the Blue Bar and the VIP rooms, are also available to be used.

With capacity for up to 715 guests standing and up to 280 for a seated dinner, this space is ideal for just about any event. From film premiere parties to catwalk spectaculars, music showcases to award ceremonies and of course, dazzling Christmas celebrations, Cafe de Paris has an enviable track record of delivering the perfect event.

Cafe de Paris is also licensed for weddings and civil ceremonies as well as being a creative directors delight when it comes to film or photo shoots.

The luxuriously decorated venue also means that virtually 100% of any event budget can be put into the party content as opposed to expensive theming and decorating. Their vastly experienced in-house Events team are dedicated to making the whole experience completely stress free. They are on hand at all times to help with all aspects of your event including menu planning and sound & lighting design, so that you can sit back, relax and enjoy the compliments.

Cafe de Paris is available for exclusive private hire Sunday - Thursday. Friday and Saturday can be considered for exclusive hire on request. For smaller groups of up to 100, the 3 private rooms are available to hire on Friday and Saturday evening only.

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P IS FOR PREMIRE’S

HOW TO RUN A

FILM PREMIERE Running A MOVIE PREMIERE EVENT or ruining a movie premiere event, I was not sure when the Editor at large asked me to complete this article with this question answered ?

As for how to run a Premiere, this is a HUGE concern, and although I would be more than happy to share the highlights with you here, it would take a small book or hefty pamphlet to go through all the details. So here are just the headlines : The following outline is an informational packet on how to organize a Premiere : I. EVENT TIMING CHECKLIST II. EVENT ORGANIZATION -Scheduling your film date -Time of Event

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-Venue -Audio/Visual Requirements III. SPONSORSHIP -Local Sponsors (sample proposal page 10) IV. PROMOTING AND MARKETING -Promotional Materials Provided -Budget -Newspaper -Radio -Press Releases/Photos -Posters -Flyers -Email -Tickets -Door prizes -National Sponsor Requirements

P IS FOR PREMIRE’S - Requirements V. EVENT STYLE/TIP -Audio/Visual Equipment -M.C. -Tickets -Sponsor Exposure -After Party -Box Office/Advertising Reports I. EVENT TIMING CHECKLIST ******Keep Receipts of money spent on Event******** Immediately: - complete and return TGR contract and deposit - secure venue/auditorium - find local sponsors (ski shops, outdoor organizations, and local businesses) - select media for the show (You Have to Spend Money to Make Money!!)

- secure partnership with newspapers, radio stations, magazines and local media - contact TGR’s Sponsor Sales Reps One month before the show: - make sure all contracts are signed for venue - work with local shops and sponsors for advanced ticket sales - prepare ad copy for media - work with sponsors for door prizes - Take Tickets to be sold at local Shops/advanced ticket outlets - reserve audio/video equipment - send out direct mailers - start placing posters and flyers - start email blasts Two weeks before the show: - check and replace missing posters - email blast again - submit ads to media - begin radio ads - collect door prizes from local sponsors - CHECK FILM FOR ANY TECHNICAL FLAWS. VERY IMPORTANT!!!

WATCH THE ENTIRE FILM One week before the show: - check and replace missing posters - email blast again - distribute more flyers - take additional tickets to advanced ticket sale outlets Day of show: - test audio/video equipment 4 hours before the showing - flyer in the morning - email blast in the morning - pick up any rental equipment - organize all door prizes - collect money from advanced ticket sales - arrive several hours before show time to get everything ready - hang banners and necessary sponsor advertising Day after the show: - fill out and return Advertising Report to TGR - fill out and return Box Office Report and ALL receipts of costs incurred to TGR - final settlement - return all grand prize entry forms to TGR - collect and return samples of all promo materials to TGR - return a minimum of (5) digital photos of the event to TGR - send thank you notes to sponsors

- return rental equipment II. EVENT ORGANIZATION MARKETING AND SALES STRATEGIES SCHEDULING YOUR FILM DATE: DATE OF EVENT -Plan date at least two weeks before any Premiere Minimum AVOID: -Football games -major sporting events or holidays TIME OF SHOW (Recommended Timing) - 6pm Doors, 7:15pm Movie VENUE (Showing Location) - audience accessibility (driving, tube, bus, walking).

What to look for in a venue….

-Good, comfortable seating capacity -Parking -Audio-visual equipment -Speakers, Projector, Screen etc.

-In-house staff projectionist, ushers, ticket sellers, ticket takers, security, etc.

-Liquor License – preferably -Booth Display area (mezzanine) AUDIO/VISUAL REQUIREMENTS -DVD Format of Video -DVD player -LCD projector -Specs to ask about: - Number of Lumens (minimum 2000) - Throw distance - Picture Size Range - Front/Rear Projection capabilities -Screen (Min 8x10) - Front or Rear Projection -Amplifier -two speakers (minimum power of 50-75 watts each) ***We strongly recommend that you use a professional projectionist for audio/video equipment.

For rental of Equipment look on Google or tweet me III. SPONSORSHIPS (EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO MAKE MONEY) LOCAL SPONSORS: Sources: - Shops - Breweries - Energy Drinks (Red Bull) - Magazines - Restaurants - Radio Station - Newspaper ****** What they can give you: - Money - Ticket Outlet - In Store Advertising - Mailing List Blast of Event Flyer - Email List Blast of Event Flyer - Inclusion in Their Established Media Buys - Advertising Trade Out (Radio/Print) - Free Venue Rental - What you can offer them:

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P IS FOR PREMIRE’S - Logo on your local promotional pieces – flyers, posters, newspaper ads, etc.

- Tag on local radio and TV ads - Booth space in the venue - our national sponsors get priority - Raffle Product – free tickets - from Local shops, clubs - Product sampling in venue – attractive to restaurants and beverage companies - Involvement in an exciting event that captures a younger crowd with money to burn - Free tickets to give to their VIPs - Banners at show IV. PROMOTING AND MARKETING YOUR EVENT Think about where your audience hangs out and promote in those places.

Be creative!

PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS PROVIDED: -DVD format of film -Posters -Tickets -Press Release master copy -Colour photos -Newspaper Ad slicks -Flyer master copy -Email template -Radio spots (upon request) -TV commercial (upon request) BUDGET: -Outline an Event Ad Budget -Spend 10% of what you expect to make NEWSPAPER: - Trade tickets for ad space.

- Advertise in papers that fit your demographics- college, university, and entertainment papers.

- Advertise in free event calendars.

- In the ad the largest print should be the date, time, place, and ticket information **Stories about TGR, the company, the film process; etc. work well for promotions (Check out the bio section on www.tetongravity.com.) Most small papers are stoked to run features of upcoming events and people in their entertainment section. Feel free to call TGR for short interviews and use the press releases in this medium as well.

RADIO: Select the station that will appeal to our audience (usually 16-38 year old listeners) -Get the station to be your “Events Presenting Sponsor.”

- Tag the event as brought to you by “Radio Station Name” - Offer trades and complimentary tickets in exchange for free advertising/spot announcements - Have radio personalities to be at your event (“live” remote) - Have station do live ticket giveaways (a pair a day for 5 days prior to event) PHOTOS AND PRESS RELEASES ****submit in person**** -In expensive form of advertising -We supply color photos from the film -submit to sports and entertainment editors -submit to all high school, university and local newspapers

EVENT TIE-INS: (Places to flyer/market/email) - Radio Station Events - Other Parties and Events POSTERS: - 25% four weeks prior to the show - 25% three weeks prior - 50% two weeks before the show ****Get permission to put them up (will stay up longer = More affective) Info To Put On Posters: 1. Day and Date (Largest) 2. Giveaways/Prizes (Largest) 3. Place 4. Time 5. Ticket Outlets EMAIL: Email lists -Ski/Snowboard clubs -Retail shop lists -University blast lists -Sports Clubs lists TICKETS: Sell Them: -At the Venue Retail Shops Sponsor Locations -Through Clubs (use incentives; i.e. one of the giveaways for highest seller) DOOR PRIZES: -Extremely Effective - Promotion of Door Prizes through Word of Mouth -Mention on all Marketing Medium (Largely) -Get Sponsors to give Prizes away V. EVENT STYLE / TIPS RECOMMENDATIONS This is your event and you want it to go off as well as possible. Create a relaxed, fun, somewhat party atmosphere so everyone is getting pumped for the upcoming season. Have a DJ or some good music playing over the house sound. Make the event a good time for all. Set aside plenty of time for setup because it always takes longer than you anticipate.

AUDIO/VISUAL EQUIPMENT: Make sure you are at the venue several hours before to set up the A/V equipment and to test the audio and visual with your copy of the film. Always have a second copy of the film for back on hand at the event.

MC: Find a good person to control the flow of the event. This person should be comfortable in front of a crowd and do a good job of entertaining them. Make sure this person gives thanks to our title and secondary sponsors as well as your local sponsors.

SPONSOR EXPOSURE: Make sure that any sponsor banners are hung up in highly visible areas. Again, make sure that there are no banners hanging that would conflict with our Title or Secondary sponsors. You must also thank our title sponsors as well as your sponsors during your PA announcements. Creating as much exposure as possible for our sponsors as well as your sponsors is the key to keeping them happy for the future.

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AFTER PARTY: Many promoters like to have an after party that all the viewers can go to after the movie. This keeps the party going and everyone stoked about the whole event. Find a beer or liquor sponsor for cheap drink specials. Let a bar or club know that you are going to promote this party to all your attendees so they can book a band or DJ for the party. We find this to be the best way to top off a night of movie watching and

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glamour.

Nomad food and design wants to help you in any way we can! We want your shows to be a huge success. Please let us know if you need anything.

Jason@nomaddlondon.co.uk www.nomadlondon.co.uk

LONDON LEGACIES

LONDON LEGACIES Kristiana Kruysmulder looks at the best of new openings in our Olympic city A flurry of activity in the hotel market has seen both chains and independents aiming for a slice of the profits from the biggest event our city has ever staged. Now that the fireworks have faded after London 2012, which have stood out in the crowd?

After a two-year overhaul, American cool finally hit Knightsbridge at the February opening of Belgraves, A Thompson Hotel. Public spaces have a warm warehouse loft feeling with Bohemian touches. The Hix bar and Restaurant has already become a local fave for post-shopping recovery although event space is small with Room 100 in the restaurant seating a maximum of 22 boardroom style. For chic gatherings, book The Snug (part of the bar for 40 people) or the vine-enfolded terrace to enjoy the last of summer’s alfresco cocktails.

A high-heeled shuffle away in May, the sound of cheering fashionistas accompanied the launch of the Bulgari London in a brand new building opposite irrepressibly high-brow One Hyde Park apartments. The elegant Ballroom holds 160 people for dinner, while the monochromatic 47-seat cinema is the place for 2D or 3D presentations. For a real surprise, indulge in the 2-floor spa with

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11 treatment rooms, 25-metre pool or a private couple’s spa suite.

Greedy Kensington. If that wasn’t enough, The Ampersand Hotel boutique hotel sashayed into South Kensington in August with 111 rooms and suites and design inspired by updated Victoriana. Highlights include the soft grey and turquoise drawing rooms for afternoon tea, kooky wallpapers in guestrooms and a private dining room hidden in the atmospheric arched brick cellar.

Since July, No.11 Cadogan Gardens is a private members club no longer following renovations to offer 54 guest rooms and four suites with private garages, close to one of London’s prettiest squares.

Over in the city, The Apex group added another capital property to their clutch of boutique-styled business hotels with the Apex Temple Court in March. The 4 star luxury property boasts 184 sleek bedrooms and suites, a restaurant and bar, exclusive Club lounge and courtyard, and the ubiquitous free WiFi. Design peaks include the glossy white lobby and graphic floral bedroom touches, but don’t start searching for meeting spaces; this hotel is reserved strictly for slumbering.

LONDON LEGACIES

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LONDON LEGACIES

Fans of the Firmdale group will be pleased to note the return to the fold of their first foray, Dorset Square Hotel.

Originally sold to fund Firmdale, the Marylebone property was re-acquired by Tim and Kit Kemp and thoroughly revamped to open in June as a more grown-up, sexier version of itself. This Regency townhouse hotel offers 39 rooms, the Potting Shed bar and restaurant, and resident drawing room, all with a subtle cricket theme. Echoing the group’s signature style, many furnishings are bespoke pieces combined with art from around the world for that exclusively English homely feel.

Just when we thought the Southbank couldn’t get any cooler, citizenM Bankside blasted into July just a stone’s throw from the Tate Modern. 192 bedrooms are supported by societyM, seven bright and beautiful creative meeting spaces on the first floor for 12 people.

Not all stylish newbies have been big budget beefcakes – many properties have opened this year to take advantage of lower spend requirements. Z Hotel Victoria opened in June as a sister hotel to 85-room Z Hotel Soho, boosting the budget chic trend. Both hotels toe the hightech line with iPod docking stations, flat screens and free WiFi in a contemporary if space-saving setting. Tune Hotels continue their world-wide domination with hotels in Westminster, Liverpool Street, King’s Cross and Paddington stations. Rooms are small but bright with white walls and furnishings and all amenities for short stays. The Megaro due south of Kings Cross/St Pancras stations, is a riot of colour from the exterior graffiti to the funky furniture in the short

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stay apartments. Two small meeting rooms hold up to 50 theatre style.

The best of those still to come in 2012: City stalkers will love 80-room South Place Hotel from September; the first venture of D&D London restaurant group.

Designed by Conran and Partners an elegant seafood restaurant and terrace on the rooftop gives diners impressive views while late-night DJs in the bar create a ‘speakeasy’ after-hours vibe. Duck past the first-floor garden to find five meeting and dining rooms. Also from September, the longawaited ME by Meliá will bring another welcome addition to rooftop bars in the capital. Design gurus Foster and Partners have realised a cutting-edge hotel of the future in the heart of old London on The Strand. Perfect for high-profile events, the shiny stark surfaces, light marble and floor-toceiling glass give a glossy backdrop for modern meetings.

Cafe Royal will be reborn in the autumn as a 159-room hotel and spa as part of super-chic The Set Hotels. It took over three years to breathe new life into this Grade 1 listed London landmark to incorporate a spa and yoga studio while retaining the original 1860s and 1920s event rooms and restaurant.

Slide into the festive season with these crackers in November and December. The glamorous Intercontinental Westminster will feature 256 rooms, meeting space for up to 250 people and stylish suppers at The Chambers Bar and Dining Rooms. The Wellesley is an achingly art deco 36-room hotel a few doors down from the Lanesborough, with London’s largest suite and a penchant for puffing cigars.

COOL VENUE AWARDS

5TH ANNUAL COOL VENUES AWARDS There IS ONLY ONE EVENT INDUSTRY AWARD that showcases the X-factor which can make all the difference for a venue in terms of it’s market position and currency value...

The COOL Venues Awards.

One minute you are COOL, the next minute you are not.

COOL is a matter of opinion. It is perhaps the greatest currency you can possess; whether you are running for President, or pitching for the next big event! It is what gives an events venue the position of strength when negotiating with an event organiser. The COOL Venues Awards, an entirely unique and defining accolade, were developed in 2007 by Wesley Mendy of Prestige Events magazine to recognise an unsung and largely influential element that emerges in the process of planning a corporate event – How exciting is the venue? Will the invitees RSVP? Will they turn up?

In the current economic climate, the pressure on an event organiser is even more apparent. The need for an event venue to gain the chance to position itself aside form it’s rivals has more emphasis than ever before.

Every corporate event organiser strives to ensure their next event is THE hot ticket.

Over the past nine years, Prestige Events magazine has tried to identify for its readers venues which will make the difference, and set it’s editorial compass on what’s COOL for the benefit of it UK readership of event organisers.

The barometer should not be biased towards all that is ‘new’ in our opinion. There is always a place for the classic / heritage venue. They often possess a character, charisma, and class that many ‘newer’ builds cannot yet match.

So what is COOL? A COOL venue should have: Charisma, Originality, Style, Innovation, Sex Appeal, Authenticity, Aspiration, and Uniqueness. COOL is a very personal opinion. Therefore, a panel of judges was selected to form a

PRESTIGE

EVENTS

2011

council. Each understood the intrinsic factors, elements and characteristics that deem a venue to be COOL. The council represents a diverse collective; writers, industry figureheads, and event organisers / specialists. They have applied the strict guideline that each nominee should not be selected as a result of its technical capabilities, since many of these facets (lighting, AV, etc) can be imported.

We have continued to decide against giving you a couple of ‘runners-up’ in each category. Firstly, it gives you - the event organiser - no wide scope of alternatives, and secondly, as a magazine we are supposed to be giving you advice and guidance.

This year’s ‘barometer’, created by a council of 15 judges (see results page), provided very interesting viewing on a great evening at the COOLest restaurant, Shaka Zulu, in the heart of London’s world-famous Camden Lock, in front of 400 event industry peers, buyers, venue owners, movers and shakers. On an evening sponsored by Mont Blanc, guests were treated to a range of fabulous cocktails courtesy of Grey Goose Vodka or alternatively washed down the amazing South African catering (courtesy of Shaka Zulu) with ice-cold Asahi beers, whilst being entertained

by X-factor’s Jon Wilding, Urban Soul Orchestra, and Peter Poyton (officially the world’s 2nd best soul/funk DJ).

The category winners were the beneficiaries of beautiful crystal awards created by the craftsmanship of EFX (hey, good enough for GQ and Google, good enough for us).

The evening was captured on film by Boko Creative (creators of Coca Cola commercials), and the brilliant Matt Chung Photography.

We cannot end this reflection without thanking other sponsors including MCL Europe, Red Snapper Net, Megabooth, Sharp Printing, Caxton Manor, Elegance Models, and Londonlaunch.

Enjoy!

Wesley Mendy

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Venues Awards at Shaka Zulu

COOL VENUE AWARDS

PRESTIGE

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WINNERS LIST: COOLest MULTI-PURPOSE VENUE: COOLest HOTEL CHAIN: COOLest VENUE PORTFOLIO: COOLest INDEPENDENT HOTEL: COOLest COUNTRY HOUSE/HISTORIC VENUE: COOLest BOUTIQUE HOTEL: COOLest ON-WATER VENUE: COOLest SPORTING VENUE: COOLest MUSEUM: COOLest CONFERENCE / EXPO CENTRE: COOLest BAR/CLUB: COOLest RESTAURANT: COOLest FOR FILM PREMIERS AFTER-PARTIES: COOLest SPA: COOLest for CORPORATE FUN: COOLest for AWARDS CEREMONIES: COOLest for GALA’S: COOLest for SMALL MEETINGS: COOLest for AGM’S: COOLest for PRODUCT LAUNCHES: COOLest for RECEPTIONS: COOLest for OUTDOOR EVENTS: COOLest MEMBERS CLUB NOW OPEN FOR EVENTS: COOLest VENUE LAUNCH IN 2011: COOLest TEMPORARY STRUCTURE: COOLest OVERSEAS VENUE: COOLest VENUE ARCHITECTURE:

ALTITUDE RADISSON EDWARDIAN LATE NIGHT LONDON TOWN HALL HOTEL & APARTMENTS STOKE PARK THE HEMPEL SILVERFLEET EMIRATES STADIUM SAATCHI GALLERY ALEXANDRA PALACE FABRIC SHAKA ZULU THE PENTHOUSE THE MAYFAIR TOP GOLF MAGNA SCIENCE MUSEUM LONDON IET SAVOY PLACE BARBICAN SWAROVSKI CRYSTALIZED WEMBLEY STADIUM CANNON BRIDGE ROOF GARDENS THE HOSPITAL CLUB W HOTEL LEICESTER SQUARE THE PAVILION @ TOWER OF LONDON GRAND EXCELSIOR MALTA 40/30 AT THE GHERKIN

For full list of winners and nominees visit www.prestigeeventsguide.com Judges Panel: Wesley Mendy (Prestige Events) Kristiana Kruysmulder (Prestige Events) Errol Griffiths (Prestige Events) Richard Harden (Hardens) Darren Halsall (Blue Tomato magazine) Will Broome (Londonlaunch) Sally Morton (Lloyds TSB) Yvonne Coleman (DLA Piper) Debra Clarke (HSBC) Dante Williams (DW Events) Gini Wilde (Bonner & Hindley) Moiz Vaz (VAS Group) Kate Kassar (Beyond) Banke Laycock (Caxton Manor) Simon Thompson (Conferences Group)

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USEFUL WEBSITES

USEFUL WEBSITES FOOD AND DRINK

Chocolate and Cake Specialists

Creative Event Management

www.chocolatestore.com

www.leapplc.com

Caterers and Party Food

www.theoriginalchocolatefountain.com

www.penguins.co.uk

www.crownsociety.co.uk

www.jane-asher.co.uk

www.applespiceevents.co.uk www.partridgeevents.co.uk

www.dishcatering.co.uk www.canapeum.com www.zafferano.co.uk www.officediner.co.uk

FLOWERS

www.hatstandcircus.co.uk

www.designerflowersuk.com

www.poissonrouge.co.uk www.bestpartiesever.com

www.anisecatering.com www.limefooddesign.co.uk www.purplegrapecatering.co.uk

www.rockevents.co.uk

TRANSPORT Air

www.oxygen-events.com www.magicmanagement.com

General Food Retailers

www.oceansky.com

Incentive Gifts

www.caleyco.com

www.expendientjet.com

www.montblanccorprorategift.co.uk

Limousines

Venue Finders

www.ultimatelimousines.co.uk

www.jpeventsltd.com

www.limousines.com

www.conferences-uk.org.uk

www.bleikers.co.uk

Coach

Event Speakers

www.blackface.co.uk

www.redwing-coaches.co.uk

www.londonspeakerbureau.com

www.ultimatelimousines.co.uk

www.jla.co.uk

www.islandseafare.co.uk

Rail

Badges, Wristbands, Lanyards

www.caleyco.com

www.trainline.co.uk

www.idcband.co.uk

www.orient-express.com

www.lanyards.uk.com

www.eurostar.com

www.identilam.com

www.oddbins.com

HOSPITALITY

Security

Cheese / Dairy Specialists

Teambuilding

www.showforce.com

www.paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk

www.leapplc.com

www.colstonbassettdairy.com

www.bluehat-teambuilding.co.uk

Organics / Special Diets

www.roantree.co.uk

Published by Mx4

www.freshfood.co.uk

www.kirkstone-events.com

108 Clydesdale Road,

www.somersetorganics.co.uk

www.jenahura.com

Hornchurch, Essex RM11 1AJ

Beverage Specialists

Outdoor

www.fortnumandmason.com

www.owen-brown.co.uk

www.regionalfoodanddrink.co.uk www.freshfood.co.uk

Meat and Charcuterie Specialists www.realmeatco.sageweb.co.uk

Fish Specialists

Wine, Champagne & Spirits www.bbr.com

www.redcarpetsecurity.com

T: ++44 (0)1708 737393

www.parnhamfunfairs.co.uk

enquiries@prestigeeventsguide.com

Hampers / Gifts

www.igloos.co.uk (luxury loos)

www.prestigeeventsguide.com

www.presentsofmind.co.uk

www.merlin-fireworks.co.uk

www.chocolatestore.com

Copyright of all editorial copy remains the

Entertainment

sole property of Mx4 Ltd and may not be

www.aquascutumgifts.com

www.joeleader.com

reproduced without the prior permission of

Deliveries / Takeaways

www.paulfarris.tv

www.deliverance.co.uk

www.murdermysteryevents.com

www.officediner.co.uk

www.thediamonddivas.co.uk

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