Prestige events magazine autumn 2014 small file size

11TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION AUTUMN 2014

PRESTIGE

EVENTS

COOL Venue Awards

10 ROOFTOP BARS OUR TOP 40 AGENCIES FOR YOUR SPEED-DIAL EVENT FASHION HOW TO WIN AN ARGUMENT PLANNING A PERFECT EVENT EVENTS & SOCIAL MEDIA THE WHAT’S AND WHAT-NOT’S TO DO CATERING TRENDS

CONTENTS

CONTENTS Dear readers, Welcome

to

the

11th

anniversary edition of Prestige Events.

The changes we’ve witnessed in the 11 years has been

frightening. To think when we

launched Facebook was a ‘who?’.

One thing hasn’t changed. Buyers need information on the suppliers who’ll inject the cool factor into their events, and they

want it truthfully: something we’ve stuck to from day one. It’s also the reason why our COOL Venue Awards, and 20/20 Speed

Networking events have such heavy demand for tickets and

places. We don’t compromise the reader/buyer experience. In life, very few things are sacrosanct. In business it’s even harder.. but we do it.

Enjoy :) Wes

Prestige Events team: Publisher / Founder: Wesley Mendy

Head of Client Relations: Dan Bearpark Editor (Print & Online): Hope Mendy

Head of Database Administration: Allanah Brownsdon-Dolan Print and Event Production: Errol Griffiths, Christine Canty Head of Social Media: Asif Mirza Art Director: Saroj Patel

Contributing editors: Jacqui Partridge, Jason Scott, Stuart Groves, Ben Gamble

Financial controller: Siobhan O’Dwyer Prestige Events magazine (est.2003) is a MX4 Ltd publication.

8 17 Things you didn’t know 11 Readers Letters 13 Where to eat post-event 17 Event fashion 19 Out and about: with Megabooth, and

Chew Events 23 Social media and events 26 The pitfalls in styling an event 29 In the trade – the event stars behind the

companies you deal with 34 10 to shoutabout: The 10 best event

experiences this year 42 Our top 40 Agencies for your speed-dial 45 How to win an argument 46 10 top rooftop bars 48 Galleries are having a ‘moment’ 52 Venue focus: Center Parcs,, Excelsior Malta 59 Supplier focus: Demonwheelers, Pearl

Rock and Raven, Ravenous Catering & Events 65 Future Events: Confex 68 Where we ate, drank and slept 70 20/20 ‘Conferencing’ Speed Networking

at De Vere Holborn Bars 72 20/20 ‘Suppliers meet agencies-only’

Speed Networking at Freemasons Hall 74 20/20 ‘COOL Venues’ Speed Networking

at Dutch Hall 76 20/20 ‘Teambuilding and Outdoor Events’

Speed Networking at De Vere Devonport House 78 20/20 ‘Meetings, Training and Seminars’

Speed Networking at Central Hall Westminster 82 Useful Websites

Prestige Events, 108 Clydesdale Road, Hornchurch Essex RM11 1AJ t:01708 737393

wes@prestigeeventsguide.com

www.prestigeeventsmagazine.com (launches 30th September 2014)

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P R E S TI G E

EVENTS

COOL

Official partner of :

Venue Awards

All views, opinions, and content, both text and images, expressed within this edition 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 2014 PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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17 THINGS

17 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 8

HISTORICAL LONDON VENUE UNDERGOING £30 MILLION REVAMP The IET Venues group are undergoing a £29.4 million overhaul of their flagship venue – IET London: Savoy Place. An additional lecture theatre, room expansions and an overhaul of the building’s layout to maximise its riverside location are currently in process, transforming the 100 year old landmark venue, which will re-open in autumn 2015.

ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS RE-OPENS PLATT ROOM FOLLOWING £50,000 REFURB The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) recently re-opened its Platt room following a £50,000 refurbishment. The perfect space for summer events, it will be used for receptions, dining and barbecue events, taking advantage of the sliding windows, which open onto the RCP’s Medicinal Garden

SAVE TIME AND MONEY, CONNECT WITH YOUR TEAM, improve engagement and create an even better, more productive place to work with our online Team Dynamics tool. www. leapplc.co.uk/team-questionnaire Free online use of tool and consultancy phone call for Prestige Events and 2020 clients.

LICK ME… Lick Me I’m Delicious launches the Edible Mist Machines for events. From chocolate to apple pie, smoked bacon or even lobster, the Edible Mist Machine produces delicious edible mist in a range of over 200 flavours. Created by the award winning experimental food inventors Lick Me I’m Delicious, the machine uses ultrasonic vaporisation to create a microscopic mist which you suck up through a straw to get an instant flavour hit.

GIANT TABLETS The award winning Giant iTabs are a great idea for Event professionals looking for new and innovative ways to make their event standout. Incredible eye-catching Giant iPhones which connect easily with visitors by creating mobile devices on a Giant scale.

For clients such as The BBC, UBM, Clarion Events, i2i, Legend Exhibitions, QVC, Unilever and many more.

GET TO THE CHURCH ON TIME Christ Church Spitalfields Venue, one of London’s most unique central London venues, has announced that they will be taking evening event bookings October to December only in the lead up to the unveiling of their brand new crypt hospitality facilities in Q2, 2015.Contact venue@ccspitalfields.org or 020 7377 6793 for more information.

IT’S CCT, NOT CCTV..AND IT JUST GOT BIGGER

CCT Venues – Canary Wharf’s fastest growing training, conference & events provider, just got bigger and better. Building on the success of CCT Venues-Plus, Bank Street, CCT Venues-Plus, South Quay opened for business on 4th August 2014. This brand new waterfront space, 2 minutes from South Quay station, offers 29 rooms, a large contemporary restaurant and conference facilities for up to 400 delegates. call 020 7537 6549

EGG’S FOR CHRISTMAS Egg Events have teamed up with House of Beau and Ravenous Catering to bring you this year’s most sophisticated and decedent ‘Black Christmas’ ball. It promises to be a feast for the eyes and full of indulgence and mystery. Contact samantha@egglondon.co.uk for further details.

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17 THINGS

TIME TO GET A COSMO

30 Euston Square will be hosting the second day of the UK’s first Cosmopolitan fashion festival, #FashFest with a panel of celebrity guests, stylists and industry professionals.#FashFest will deliver five fashion events in five days combining the power of live events with digital scale in order to showcase the key trends for Autumn/Winter 2014. featuring fashion master classes from top celebrity industry insiders Pixie Lott, Victoria Adcock (stylist to Cheryl Cole and Victoria Beckham), Ben Cooke (Nicole Scherzinger’s hairdresser) and Jess Moloney (Designer Fashion PR for Vivienne Westwood).

A HIDDEN GEM…A QUINTESSENTIALLY BRITISH CONFERENCE CENTRE IN THE HEART OF LONDON The British Museum houses one of the greatest collections of human cultural history in the world. In this exciting setting, power, leadership, spirituality, beauty and genius are explored from the beginnings of culture in Africa 2 million years ago, through ancient civilisations right up to the present day.

C3, IT’S AS EASY AS 1,2,3 At C3 Imaging we pride ourselves on providing high quality print and display graphics. With offices around the UK, internationally renowned clients and a number of different top-end services we are ideally placed to offer the complete print solution to you and your company.

WARWICK CONFERENCES HEAD CHEF CROWNED ‘BRITISH BBQ CHAMPION’ Graham Crump, Warwick Conferences’ Group Executive Chef, impressed a panel of judges, led by World BBQ champion Ben Bartlett, during the live ‘cook-off’ held at Blenheim Palace on 18 June. Crump states “We take food

very seriously here (at the Uni) and my winning menu was typical of the kind of food we love to serve”. Visit www. warwickconferences.com to view his mouth-watering winning menu.

TIME TO PARC YOUR ATTENTION HERE Center Parcs, the UK’s leading short break provider, has launched new teambuilding packages for the conference and events market. The packages - Activ8, Motiv8 and Rejuven8 - start at £99 pp inc VAT and feature a range of activities from time in the spa to a high ropes course, suiting every type of delegate.

GUNNER CHARM THE EVENT WORLD After 21 years as Arsenal’s mascot, the Gunnersaurus is branching out to take on the event industry. The 7ft dinosaur, who’s always in team kit, has already appeared at a number of events. Carlo Zoccali, Arsenal Event Manager, said: “He wanted me to make the industry aware that he is available to hire. Unfortunately, a lack of language means he can’t tell you himself.”

LONDON LIVING WAGE INTRODUCED AT CHURCH HOUSE CONFERENCE CENTRE Church House Conference Centre has become a London Living Wage (LLW) employer as it continues to develop policies which attract the best staff in the industry. The policy applies to all staff including full time, part time and individuals working for contracted partners supplying catering and cleaning services to Church House Conference Centre.

TWICKENHAM EXPERIENCE LAUNCHES ALPINE THEMED CHRISTMAS PACKAGES Following an increase in enquiries for Christmas parties in 2013, the team at Twickenham are set to host Alpine themed packages for the festive season this year. With an après-ski theme, the various packages offer guest an offpiste experience to rival that of the mountain slopes.

IT AIN’T JUST CRICKET Emirates Old Trafford is an award winning conference and events venue in Manchester, encapsulating state of the art facilities, customisable space and the finest traditions of modern cricket. The venue provides an inspirational and unique setting for exhibitions, conferences, meetings, dinners, parties and more.

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READERS LETTERS

LORD KNOWS! Lord Jason Scott is possibly the most connected man in the UK event industry. Also the most dapper man in the industry, who else could we appoint to answer your ‘event-fashion/grooming/ style’ questions!

Ask Lord Jason a question and win a fantastic Montblanc

Q/ I noticed you wear a hat rather often, do you keep it on or take

Pen. Thank you to Montblanc Corporate Gifts for the fantastic

off a hat and when? - Nathan, Leeds

prize of a timeless Meisterstuck Platinum Ballpoint Pen (www.

The rules governing the doffing of hats are as odd and

montblanccorporategift.co.uk). Email your questions to us

anachronistic as the people who still insist on wearing them, like

at enquiries@prestigeeventsguide.com for a chance to win

me. We do have room, however, for one hard-and-fast rule: Hats

next time and to receive another piece of writing culture from

should always be removed in public spaces, like the elevators in

Montblanc Corporate Gifts. A time honored tradition.

department stores. (As a sign of respect to the ladies, naturally.)

Hat hair goes with the territory. If you suffer, get a shorter haircut

See more of Lord Jason Scott’s sartorial style her –

or a bigger hat.

http://pinterest.com/lordscott/this-is-my-style-lord-it/ Q/ With Christmas season coming, are notch lapels okay?

- Luca.B, London 1)George Clooney often wears a notch lapel, so it must be all Q/ Most men in events seem to wear suits without a tie. Can I? - Ronnie, Bishopsgate So long as you take care to get it right rather than looking as if you just spent the night in a local jail. First up, your collar needs to be more stiff and more formal, with the ability to stand up on its own without the support of a tie. (Softer, lower collars tend to collapse

right, and 2) waiters often wear a notch lapel, so it ain’t all right.

Somewhere in between the two is the official line that a peak lapel is a sounder, classier bet. What I have more of an issue with is the wing collar. To classicists, a wing is the only good option, but to me, it looks kind of pompous and costumey (is that a word?)

— on anyone, including Hercule Poirot, but especially on me.

An evening shirt with a normal turn-down collar (like the Brooks

in on themselves when undone.) Similarly, your suit needs to fit

Brothers) is more comfortable, physically, morally, and socially,

without acres of extra cloth flapping about. The rest is all about

for most of us.

the way you carry yourself.

Q/ I spill liquor a lot during networking events, as I am always trying to balance a canape in one hand as well as my bag while getting my drink topped up. What are the best fabrics to wear?

- Jackie, Brighton You sound like a social liability, you will fit in perfectly to this crazy event industry. I recommend a neoprene scuba suit. And not dancing with a full glass of hooch in hand. Failing that, try

Q/ A matter of time: Is there a cheap watch that’s stylish enough for all eternity? - Pete, Islington An accessibly priced watch means quartz driven, and if by “for all eternity” you mean that you plan to hang on to it after you’re dead, digital is probably your best bet. Casio’s classic G-Shock (like grime artists I am told) has all the robust qualities needed to survive clumsy undertakers. It’s no Patek Philippe, but its angular charms work in pleasant counterpoint to dressier outfits — like funeral garb.

machine-washable clothing (e.g., cotton) and robust weaves like denim, which will stand up to your systematic pattern of abuse.

Till next time, stay classy Prestigers

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B A R TALIAWhen you need your TO EAT WHERE drunk carbs and AFTER Subwa-DARK yand Fried

WHERE TO EAT AFTER THE EVENT

BAR ITALIA When you need your drunk carbs and Subway and Fried Chicken just seems too final a way to end the night Bar Italia is the perfect place to wind down but not exactly commit your night to an end straight away. With Dishes under a tenner but drinks quite steep they definitely know their customers but with a Margarita pizza this god you’ll be glad you decided to end your night with a sit down meal.

POLO BAR For the traditional British end to your night we wholly recommend Polo Bar’s full English. Open 24 hours and even offering take away if your sofa seems more appealing it couldn’t offer more as a Café if it tried.

176 Bishopsgate, The City, London, EC2M 4NQ

22 Frith Street, Soho, London, W1D 4RP

BRICK LANE BEIGEL SHOP If you don’t know about this place by now then we’ll assume you’ve been living under a rock. Not changed since it was first opened it’s THE place to pop to en route home from a night out, even if its for your lunch tomorrow- you won’t regret it. Try the Salt Beef or forever feel guilty you didn’t.

TINSELTOWN So popular it’s open until 4am Tinseltown markets itself as a Diner and is based right in the middle of London. On the menu you will find a wide range of meals all cooked using fresh halal produce and we highly recommend you sample one of their 60 different famous milkshakes.

159 Brick Lane, Shoreditch, London, E1 6SB

44-46 St John Street, London, EC1M 4DF

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P RES T I G E

EVENTS

COOL Venue Awards

8th Annual COOL Venue Awards Thursday 5th March 2015 Café de Paris, London

The COOLest awards evening in the industry.

Social media audience for 2014 awards: 7.4 million!!! (the largest social media audience for a corporate event industry awards) Tweeted by all from Sir Richard Branson, Bear Grylls to DJ Spoony and TOWIE.

Attended by 800 buyers and suppliers (and no-one pays for a nomination, ticket, drinks, etc), enjoying the best DJ’s, entertainment in a carnival setting The only awards that’s based on the ‘COOL’ factor.

TO MAKE SURE YOUR VENUE IS CONSIDERED BY THE JUDGING PANEL, SUBMIT YOUR FREE 200-WORD STATEMENT AND PHOTO IMAGES (BY 20.11.14) MARKED ‘CVA 15 ENTRY’ TO wes@prestigeeventsguide.com www.coolvenueawards.com Headline sponsors:

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EVENT FASHION

IN THE HEAT OF THE EVENT WORLD

BY HOPE MENDY

Autumn is less a season than a fleeting battle between summer and winter. It can be impossible to dress for the office without feeling like you’re being strangled by the heat or drowned like a rat. Stepping on the tube is a mission in itself and whilst our USB Plug in fans may provide a semblance of comfort, as in all walks of life prevention is better than cure. Here’s what I plan on using to make trans-seasonal dressing slightly more bearable without bringing a suitcase to work.

1. SPRING WATER SPRAY – Avevue.

Sourced from the French mountains it isn’t so much the water within this spray (although its skin healing properties are a marvel) but more the mist function itself. Less than a fiver from your local chemist the handbag friendly size won’t weigh down your bag, whilst the make-up setting properties will have you thanking the heavens (or the French) for this product, guaranteed to make your day slightly cooler.

2. STRAW FEDORA – Accessorize Despite hats often being a fail during summer due to their heat trapping properties shielding your face is essential to prevent long term ageing effects and sunglasses don’t always allow great visibility once you step inside. A straw fedora is on trend, smart and gives minimal hat hair due to its weight. Plus unlike its floppy brimmed sister, the Fedora suits all face shapes. A+

3. OPEN TOED SLINGBACKS – Zara do the best As lovely as the breeze sandals afford is, wearing a pair of gladiators to your team meeting can feel slightly too casual and the dreaded air con will guarantee that you’ll be leaving the office with frostbite on your toes. An open toed slingback heel or pump allows extra breathing space for your feet whilst giving your outfit a practicality across all room temperatures. Plus post commute they’re less likely to look grim 4. NEUTRAL CARDIGAN – (As long as it’s cut above the waist – perfect) In the mornings it’s chilly, yet within 2 minutes of being on the bus you’re overheating and wishing you’d left half your clothes at home. What’s really needed in this situation is a denim jacket, but getting away with one outside of a Friday is most likely a no go. A cardigan you can throw into your bag will give you enough coverage when needed without ensuring you turn up to the office red faced and sweaty palmed.

5. BOBBLE WATER FILTER It sounds silly but in the heat it’s incredibly easy to forget to drink and the resentment felt when paying for Evian when we know tap whilst free doesn’t quite rise to the occasion isn’t fun. Water filters have been around for an age but these ones from Bobble whilst coming in a variety of colours are surprisingly affordable and dramatically change the quality of tap water. Working out at 2 pence a bottle you can fill up as much as you need to.

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OUT AND ABOUT: MEGABOOTH

OUT AND ABOUT:

MEGABOOTH

18

PrestigeEventsGuide.com

OUT AND ABOUT: MEGABOOTH

:

H

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OUT AND ABOUT: CHEW EVENTS

Out And About:

CHEW EVENTS

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SOCIAL MEDIA & EVENTS

A BRAND NEW WORLD

By Hope Mendy

A new conversation topic was born the day media

this the service and company reputation improve (surely the

became social; followers. It’s the internet’s way of letting

endgame of all digital marketing) allowing the brand to achieve

you feel approved socially, crediting every other action as

exactly what it needs to.

one that’s ‘liked’ by society. Whilst some activity will remain solely between you and your hard drive no one can deny

So what can we learn from this approach?

the pride you can feel as Instagram lets you know you’ve received a new follower, and the self-pity felt as the photo

QUALITY > QUANTITY

of your lunch doesn’t receive the likes you thought it would.

Yes your content is important, in fact it’s so important that wasting Until now a marketing goal for companies has been to get as

time stressing over how many people reading it is wasted time

many followers as possible to give their brand a kind of credit

you could be spending improving it. If you want your venue/

(the ‘Look how many friends I have’ of adulthood), however with a

product to speak, make sure its saying words of wisdom.

rising trend in automated ‘bot’ accounts and companies devoted to improving your online presence at a cost, having followers

FILTERS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS

doesn’t always mean that you’re popular and can’t always guarantee a great return. Someone liking your content isn’t a

As much fun composing that witty tweet might be, spreading your

customer, they’re just a maybe.

brand identity through images manages to through a collage of

In May 2013 the Ritz Carlton bought ads to promote their brand on Facebook, a sure-fire way to gain more business right? ‘Likers’ came thick and fast- too fast. “We were fearful our engagement and connection with our community was dropping” says Allison Sitch, Ritz-Carlton’s VP of global public relations, and with that they halted the campaign, and chose to zone in and focus on their business needs.

Today, the Ritz has about 498,000 Facebook fans; some rivals have several times as many. Rather than try to keep up,

many create a brand identity in a more fluid fashion. Instagram is one of the easiest apps to use and whilst twitter is great for asking your clientele questions, when appealing to your potential clients a picture is sometimes all that needs to be said.

YES BLOG POSTS WORK Whilst finding new content can be tiring believe it or not people want to know what your brand speaks for and if your item is on something relevant in pop culture, all the better! You don’t want

their marketing team spends time analyzing its social-media

it to be focused solely on something your brand is affiliated with

conversations, to see what guests like and don’t like, also

(this isn’t an advert) rather feed into your brand through brief

reaching out to people who have never stayed at its hotels. With

mentions of your presence in said medium as of late.

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STYLING AN EVENT

PITFALLS TO AVOID WHEN PRODUCING AND STYLING AN EVENT

by Sara Tweddle of Partridge Events 1. CONSIDER SET UP TIMES – Venues can often limit get

6. STAFFING – Do not expect the venue to help with loading or

in time, be sure to factor in set backs such as a delivery arriving

setting up, ensure you have enough crew to complete the install/

before you and pushing you back, or the amount of people you

de rig within time restrictions.

have to help set up as this will determine the amount of time you

7. MEASUREMENT UNITS – Be sure to check you are

require.

working in the same units as everyone involved with the job

2. BE SURE OF ADDRESSES – Venues sometimes have

especially the client. You do not want to confuse meters and feet!

various addresses for example the loading bay may be different to actual location of the event.

8. DO USE THE VENUE’S DÉCOR TO YOUR ADVANTAGE – When choosing your venue, if you have a

3. CHECK THE TRAFFIC – It may seem obvious however;

specific theme in mind try to find a venue that lends itself to this,

daily changes happen on roads and train routes. Closures can

or is a blank canvas. Trying to fight with existing décor can make

happen last minute so it is worth checking on the day of the event.

styling a nightmare and confuse guests.

There are many websites that offer live updates of London traffic

9. DON’T SPREAD DRESSING TOO THINLY – It can be

information.

tempting to think bigger is better, trying to cover the entire venue.

4. ALWAYS CHECK THE MANUAL – Every venue will

However sometimes leaving the dressing simple yet effective can

have its own version of exhibiting rules and regulations, which

have a greater impact. Think of hinting towards a theme through

may affect basic design features such as wall attachments and

table centres or stand out props.

flooring restrictions.

10. ENTERTAINMENT AND EXPERIENCE – Do think

5. TABLE CENTERS – Always be sure that table centers are

about not only using props and décor but translate theme through

an enhancement and not a hindrance. Check the height will not

characters or entertainment. This creates an interactive and

block view across the table.

immersive event, where guests can get involved and have fun!

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IN THE TRADE

IN THE TRADE WITH...

DAN ATKINS OF VAULTLONDON.COM

You have a varied client portfolio. Care to name a

Dan Atkins is the co-

few? And what do you feel was the defining factor in

founder of The Vault

establishing your relationships?

London -

From the biggest Concierge and Lifestyle Management

http://vaultlondon.com a super COOL company that provides VIP Transfers to and from events aboard luxuriously refurbished Double Decker Buses. The Vault has been known for providing some of the most unique experiences in

Companies to American Rock Bands, Fortune 500 to Private Events. You name it we’ve done them… and they’ve all LOVED the service we provide. This is a PEOPLE industry… and that’s what we love about the industry. Our staff are brilliant at helping people enjoy themselves and have fun whilst they’re on board The Vault, and we’re constantly provided glowing feedback

London. Its traditional London red bus exterior masks

from our clients about them. The vast majority of our work

an unbelievably opulent interior rivalled by luxury

comes through client referrals and by continually providing an

yachts and private jets.

outstanding service we’re able to deliver a COOL experience that people rave about.

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

Corporate Events are crying out for unique and exciting ways to entertain their guests. On top of that we wanted to create a funky, sexy, COOL way of transferring people to and from events and what better way to do it than on board a pimped out London Double Decker bus. The Vault comes fully stocked with a Champagne and Cocktail bar, DJ Booth and space for 60 over 2 luxurious floors which is the perfect way to transfer VIPs to and

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

It’s great working with big named companies and private clients and our service and staff are always complimented on their attention to detail and the interaction they have with our clients.

People love having fun… and we’re EXPERTS at providing it!!!

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

from events.

COOL plays a VERY important role in our events. We like having

How do you prepare for a big event day?

having the time of their lives. We’re proud of the service we

Getting there early, to prepare everything and ensure that when

provide and love having our clients raving about our events.

fun, and we ensure that when our clients are on board they’re

guests seamlessly arrive on board The Vault they’re greeted to an experience that offers the “WOW” factor. Friendly staff, a glass

What would you like to see happen in the corporate

of bubbles, ambient music and a transfer aboard London’s finest

events industry in the next 12 months?

Double Decker… what better way to travel to or from events!

What preparation goes into your service?

Preparation is key for every aspect of the event. Being able to plan or foresee any potential issues means we’re able to minimise the impact they have to the event and prevent disruption to our client’s experience. We pride ourselves on delivering a great

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A LOT more clients jumping aboard The Vault for their Christmas Parties, Staff Incentives, VIP Transfers and general days out.

Give us a call and see what we can do to help 020 7060 6345.

Prestige Events magazine is celebrating it’s 11th anniversary. Where will you be in 11 years’ time?

service to our clients and their guests. The more we can discover

A HUGE Congrats to Wes and the team at Prestige Events, to

about our clients prior to their arrival the better that we can cater

continually deliver outstanding value to the industry is no mean

to their needs.

feat, and they should be proud of what they’ve achieved over

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IN THE TRADE that period of time. As for The Vault… look out for hotels, bars,

restaurateur where you might be poor one day and recover the

shops and various whacky venues and events all on board

next.

London Double Decker buses. We’re turning our attention to the international market as that’s where a London bus becomes even more iconic!

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

LOVE COCKTAILS & A GREAT PARTY? Then head over to our friends at http://snsclub.co.uk who put on fantastic Cocktail Experiences for guests to have a great night out.

3 secret locations, 4 cocktails and VIP transfers aboard The Vault for just £30pp. It’s a no brainer!!! ____________________________________

GREG LAWSON, CEO OF SMART GROUP SMART GROUP’S MISSION STATEMENT: ‘To deliver

Some of our key clients include Waitrose, Adobe, Times Best Companies, Bentley, Mercedes Benz and Royal Ascot. I feel that the Smart Team are the defining factor, we absolutely have the passion, the expertise, the enthusiasm and drive to establish and maintain these great relationships, once a client is on board we retain that client and are very proud of that fact. We work hard to deliver to our client’s demands and always have our fingers on the pulse for new trends, we are consistently raising the bar and offering a fresh, creative approach to event catering and experiences. Which is why we believe that our clients are Smart.

experiences that our

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

customers love and that

We treat our clients all the same, whether it be a big-name client

our team are proud to be associated with.’

The Smart Group is a dynamic collection of hospitality, catering and event management businesses with over 20 years’ experience; founded and led by CEO, Greg Lawson.

or a small business. In other organisations, teams treat their highend corporates like VIPs and smaller clients with less respect but I believe that this is a mistake. We never compromise on quality, we always listen and give more than is expected to ALL of our clients.

We work with clients we respect and want to work with no matter what their size.

Consisting of Smart Hospitality; Smart by Angela

What preparation goes into your service?

Hartnett; Smart Christmas Parties, Smart LIVE, Smart

We prepare to be remarkable. This is hard to quantify, as it is so

Battersea Evolution Smart Hospitality Manchester and Smart Experiences. Quality, passion and integrity drive all the brands at Smart Group, providing the ultimate experiences across events and hospitality. www.smartgroupltd.co.uk What was the inspiration behind you getting involved in corporate events?

I am driven by innovation, by working with vibrant and intelligent people and creating great product and taking it market. I like to be lateral and believe that I am a very average person and would

varied and involves so much from my teams, we will prep every detail from the spotless linen, to a well-turned artichoke, to amazing set pieces and dynamic entertainment. But to give you an example, we just finished a successful run at Ascot where we catered to the Royal Village, one aspect was our Mad Hatters Tea Party, with everything edible from the candy floss trees to the mountains of meringues and huge wobbling jellies. In addition, we had green tea pouring cream, edible loofahs with exploded yoghurt and little Queen of Hearts tarts for guests to taste and explore, this took 1,650 chef hours from our pastry team.

claim not to be over sophisticated or precious and believe that I

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

therefore have a good insight into what the majority of guests find

All our events have a certain ‘cool’ element, from hanging Formula

exciting and engaging. I am very single minded though in what I do and want always to deliver and to the best job that I can each and every job that I take on. I believe that outdoor/event catering is the most pure form of catering as you only get one chance….. you either deliver or you don’t, it’s not like being a hotelier or

One cars from the ceiling of our venues, recreating indoor living gardens on a spectacular scale and in catering buying an asparagus field to meet demand and encouraging sustainability.

Smart LIVE our event agency is bursting with cool, they are up to the moment including everything and anything; the latest PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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IN THE TRADE contortionists, electric laser violin players or hot new theme. I think

Having worked with various venues across the UK pulling in large

this is also reflected in the great venues we own and work with

crowds, I could see the massive potential in organising corporate

from Battersea Evolution to the famous art-deco venue Troxy.

events, as everyone loves a good party. Coming from a creative background, I found these events so much more fun to work

How do you prepare for a big event day?

on as no two events are ever the same, and there is a personal

Seven steps to success:

satisfaction when the event has been successful.

1.

Decide on your goal and know your deadline

2.

Make an effective plan

How do you prepare for a big event day?

3.

Put a stellar Smart team in place

I have event timesheets in place so everyone knows what is going

4.

Think ahead: Anticipate the challenges and shortcomings

on at the venue and who is responsible for what. I can then use this

5.

Stay motivated & don’t get stressed

to ensure that everything is running to a timely manner. On the day

6.

Listen to your team and clients

itself I arrive to the venue early to oversee everything and to meet

7.

Deliver beyond expectations

the clients. The key is to remain calm!

What would you like to see happen in the corporate

What preparation goes into your service?

events industry in the next 12 months?

I always arrange to meet the clients, even if through an agency.

I believe that the market is becoming ever more sophisticated

This helps me to build a rapport with my clients and to get a better

and as we come out of the recession I can see the appetite for

understanding of what they are looking for. Together, we always

bespoke events increasing exponentially, we are gearing up Smart

undertake a careful and thorough event plan to assist with the

LIVE to put them in a position with all the expertise and talent in

planning process. We then put the clients in touch with additional

order for them to exploit the growth. From a catering perspective

suppliers if required.

I can imagine that major sporting venues will follow Ascots lead and start to break up contracts in order to create competition and

You have a varied client portfolio. Care to name a

chase quality and innovation. Ascot have been visionaries here,

few? And what do you feel was the defining factor in

someone has to be a pioneer and I think others will follow.

establishing your relationships?

____________________________________

We have hosted parties for a variety of clients ranging from Ted

SAMANTHA GALSWORTHY OF EGG EVENTS LONDON

Baker to Tesco.

We were able to establish excellent working relationships with our previous clients by simply having the basic understanding of their

With over 15 years

needs. We create effective and ongoing means of communication

experience in event

to develop a level of mutual trust and respect. A good working

management, marketing

relationship is mutually beneficial as we have seen several

and public and press

repeated business from our previous clients.

relations I made the transition to Corporate Events

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

Manager at Egg London. The

We treat all our clients with the same exceptional service to ensure

venue is firmly established in

everything is done to match their needs, and ensuring they have an

the London nightlife scene, and is now proving itself as a successful corporate venue, where I have overseen many different private functions from product launches to full on themed parties. Egg London offers versatility like no other venue.

What was the inspiration behind you getting involved in

enjoyable time. But it is always exciting when we get the big-name clients, as they usually have more leeway in how creative they can be, and it is always fun to see our venue being transformed.

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

I think being ‘cool’ is very important, as it creates a talking point

corporate events?

about the event and the venue, making it memorable. It keeps you

Corporate Events are crying out for unique and exciting ways to

at the forefront of the event industry.

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IN THE TRADE What would you like to see happen in the corporate

It’s much easier to sell your service to someone who has already

events industry in the next 12 months?

experienced it and even easier if you have taken on board what

In the next 12 months I would like to see a growth in the corporate

they have said.

events industry, with more companies recognising the importance of the social aspect of events. The event industry in the UK is no

You have a varied client portfolio. Care to name a

where as big as it is in USA, so let’s push and create harder to

few? And what do you feel was the defining factor in

make this happen.

establishing your relationships?

____________________________________

We are blessed to be honest. I can stare in wonder at ancient Livery Halls with hundreds of years’ of tradition; gaze over the

JESSICA STEFAN OF ITA* VENUES

majestic Thames from secluded clubs; wander down galleries in

ITA* offers a bespoke and

the footsteps of Henry VIII; or relax in private members’ clubs that

free of charge booking

are the epitome of style. How to choose? May favourite three are

service for over 40 of the most

28 Portland Place, Stationers’ Hall and Haberdashers’ Hall – but

exclusive events settings the

these are not necessarily the most popular in the portfolio! The

capital has to offer. With

defining factor in all my client relationships is trust!

venues great and small, incredible food and a totally

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

bespoke approach, ITA* will

It used to be daunting at times, however now I have mastered that

give you your best Christmas

honesty and being totally thorough with absolutely everything is

party ever. Jessica Stefan, our Christmas specialist will

key. Making sure your client knows everything about the venue

provide a highly personal service, full of ideas and flexible

is critical; it ensures no unexpected surprises occur on the day

options for creating your ultimate Christmas event.

and you’ll have a happy client at the end of the night. I also never presume anything, I find out the exact detail and expectations of

What was the inspiration behind you getting involved in

all my clients.

corporate events?

I’m a ‘people person’. I love looking after people and ensuring

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

they have a good time. I studied Travel and Tourism at College

I think style is as important as cool - but the two are definitely very

and a big part of the course was a module on Customer Service.

closely linked! For us much of the coolness comes from a) the

I excelled at this and knew this was a field I wanted to go into. I

venue b) the service and c) the food and drink. Let me explain.

got my first taste of events when I worked for a Sports Hospitality

Guests walk into a venue like ZSL London Zoo and their jaws just

company where face to face customer service was key. This

drop (try your martini with added tiger - unforgettable). Now that’s

secured my thoughts on pursuing a career in events.

cool! Or walk into a secret garden where one guitarist with a loop pedal sounds like a full orchestra. That’s really cool. Or try one of

How do you prepare for a big event day?

Isabelle Legron’s natural wines and see peoples’ eyes pop. Too

Prepare. Prepare. Prepare! I start off writing a hand-written check

cool!

list. I then type this up as a word document - it helps ensure I have covered everything. Writing things up in another format makes

What would you like to see happen in the corporate

you think of additional items you may have missed off. I also like

events industry in the next 12 months?

to keep notes from previous events I have worked on; so before

Well at the moment people seem more confident with their budgets

I create my ultimate list I look back on any notes I’ve jotted down.

which is great news! However, some clients are not always realistic

Mistakes will then never be made twice.

in assessing the quality they can buy for the budget they can afford.

Investing a little more budget into food and wine will always ensure

30

What preparation goes into your service?

be received well and can really make lasting impressions.

I’ll do a lot of research to see what else is out there; it’s also good to

I actually think it’s already happening, so some clients who have

know where in the market you are positioned. I also ask my clients

chosen a cheaper package elsewhere but then experienced poor

certain questions and take on board what they like and don’t like.

quality, now appreciate the quality and value for money our venues

PrestigeEventsGuide.com

IN THE TRADE offer, especially over the festive season. ‘Pay a little more - and

You have a varied client portfolio. Care to name a

then get even more back in return’ is what I say!

few? And what do you feel was the defining factor in

____________________________________

establishing your relationships?

RACHEL WATERFIELD OF HAWTHORN With over 20 years in the industry both venue and agency side, I already had an excellent relationship with Hawthorn as a technical supplier to the live event industry. Joining them as Head of Sales & Marketing seemed like a natural progression.

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

I grew up with exposure to the industry as my mother managed a hotel, so a career in the hospitality industry was a forgone conclusion. As the industry evolved, I was drawn to the live events side as it was an opportunity to engage my creative skills. Working for Virgin at The Kensington Roof Gardens was a huge inspiration as Virgin really knew how to host an amazing event.

How do you prepare for a big event day?

Plenty of sleep, lots of check lists and ensuring I have a well briefed happy team to work with.

What preparation goes into your service?

Following the receipt of a client brief, we will develop a design alongside our clients that answers their objectives from a visual and technical perspective. Once a project has been signed off, the preparation begins. As Hawthorn own over £20m worth of

Much of our work comes via agencies so our client portfolio consists of some of the most respected names in the business.

Taylor Bennett have some great projects, as do GSP, Smart Live, Energy Live and Noble Events We also work closely with our partner venues such as Battersea Evolution and the Natural History Museum who host some of the most prestigious Brands and Charity events in the world.

In terms of the defining factor associated with establishing our relationship, our brand values including trust and integrity are high on the list along with excellent service, impeccable delivery, a friendly professional team and that all important creative edge!

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

We don’t tend to differentiate between our clients as they are all equally important to us, however, there is a certain level of pride associated with working with some of the high end brands such as Mercedes or BBC Worldwide.

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

The most important aspect of any event is ensuring that we design a solution that is “on brand” for the client as “cool” is open to interpretation. Being cool in terms of providing our clients with the latest cutting edge technology is a given and staying “cool” in a live event situation is a must!

equipment, there are various processes that take place at our

What would you like to see happen in the corporate

HQ in Leicestershire that ensure all equipment is maintained and

events industry in the next 12 months?

tested prior to dispatch. Equipment, transport and crew are booked by project support and our warehouse teams ensure everything is loaded and dispatched to the event.

We have departments for each area of our business that include experts in that area i.e. moving lights, AV, sound, staging & structure and drapes all work together to co-ordinate and deliver everything that is required for a job.

Once everything arrives on site a project Director then ensures that the event is delivered to our usual standard of excellence.

I would like to see companies raising the bar in terms of how they communicate through their events both internally and externally. I would like to see budgets increasing to enable us to use ingenious design and clever technology to create fully immersive experiences through live events.

Prestige Events magazine is celebrating it’s 11th anniversary. Where will you be in 11 years’ time?

I would personally like to be in the South of France working remotely ensuring the Hawthorn brand continues to shine brightly!

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PLANNING PERFECT EVENTS

THE WHAT’S AND WHAT-NOT’s

of planning a

PERFECT EVENT

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PLANNING PERFECT EVENTS

1. WE’RE ALL NERVOUS, JUST BE PREPARED Everyone is nervous even if they don’t appear to be. Just prepare yourself as much as you can to eliminate the worry of having forgotten something.

2. HELP OTHERS FIRST. Referral networks don’t work if both parties just want to take. In fact, both must have their hearts set on how they can help one another for it to work. Plus it’s just good manners.

3. THE BEST FORM OF NETWORKING IS NOT-WORKING. Not many people go to a networking event to actively ‘buy’ as you can imagine. Don’t sell just try and build a good business understanding, the business will follow.

4. LISTEN. An old Chinese proverb states that true growth is shown through the closing of our mouths. Whilst we don’t agree with it completely there is something to be said for listening and not interrupting.

5. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT GAME OF THRONES. If you’re at a business event, you don’t necessarily need to talk about business. People are often more engaged by the things they are passionate about. Build those bonds!

6. ASK FOR WHAT YOU WANT. IF YOU DON’T ASK, YOU DON’T GET. When you go to a networking event, know in advance what you want to achieve from it. Be honest about what you want. You may be surprised at who can help...

7. BE AWARE OF OTHERS. Avoid breaking into a one on one conversation between two people and if you see someone on their own, make the effort to go up and speak to them. These are basic the most basic rules!

8. BE THERE. OR BE...LEFT OUT! As tempting as staying in and watching GBBO is, the fear of ‘What if’ is greater. Make sure to attend whatever you can- this is why iPlayer and ProPlus have been invented!

9. STAY IN TOUCH. Do what you said you’d do. The very next day. As such, it’s very important you strike whilst the iron’s hot.

Especially if you were ‘not-working’ the evening before, because it’ll all amount to nothing if you don’t follow it up.

10. PATIENCE. IT TAKES TIME TO BUILD A RELATIONSHIP. Think of the networking event as the start of a wider process. It’s not all about quick wins. It’s about building meaningful relationships. It always pays in the end.

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A-Z

THE MAD WORLD ACCORDING TO SHOUTABOUT LONDON

OF WHAT TO

EXPERIENCE

IN EVENTS

FROM HOTELS TO CLUBS TO CONCERTS TO SPORTING EVENT TO WHAT P***** THEM OFF!! THIS IS THE WORLD OF EVENTS, ACCORDING TO SHOUTABOUT LONDON Shout About London are a brand conscious events consultancy, launched in July of 2013.

The concept came about during the two Directors prior roles at high end corporate venues. They were constantly being frustrated by the archetypal agency ‘painting by numbers’, offering no real value to the client.

They saw the gap, and just needed to fill it with something that expressed their vision.

We all Shout About what we’re proud of. So, in bringing together the most relevant venues and the most reliable suppliers, Shout About London have managed to procure the most dedicated of clients. It’s about loving the venues, really knowing the suppliers, and enjoying matching a client’s expectations with what the greatest city in the world has to offer.

What’s next?

Shout About Rome? Shout About Paris?

It’s all there for the taking. You’ll just have to wait and see.

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PrestigeEventsGuide.com

THE MAD WORLD ACCORDING TO SHOUTABOUT LONDON 1 YEAR OF SHOUTING ABOUT LONDON Here are 12 categories to represent every month we’ve been promoting the best city in the world: London. They all have something in common: with clients, friends or family, we’ve experienced them all in the last 12 months – and that’s why we can Shout About them.

In no particular order…..

12) VENUES WE’VE HAD EVENTS (SORRY NO SPACE TO NAME THEM ALL) 1. Museum of London We’ve booked a number of events here and used almost every space in the venue.

The garden terrace rooms are still relatively unknown and amazing value for money. There’s also a fantastic team running their events.

2. The Barbican A lot of people are still unaware that within the confines of the Barbican centre is a huge conservatory for private hire, adorned with over 2,000 species of tropical plants and trees. It’s like something out of Paycheck (it’s a Ben Affleck film, I’m aware you might need to Google that reference!). Anyway, it’s stunning!

3. The Royal Suite at St. Pancras Renaissance The stairs leading up to this jaw-dropping room is where they shot the Spice Girls Wannabe video. I’d book it just for that.

4. Chelsea Village All-be-it not the greatest football team in London (let alone the world), it is a self-contained haven for extremely effective business events. Hotel rooms, boardrooms, over-looking the pitch and ‘under the bridge’ a kind of Mini O2 Indigo, ideal for the evening element. Not surprising we’ve been able to place weeklong events here.

5. Boisdale Canary Wharf Really cool Jazz bar/restaurant with fantastic red wine. Oh god, I love the red wine.

6. Kensington Roof Gardens One of our favourite venues, one of our favourite sales teams, and home to the first of our client Christmas parties for 2014. You feel like your holidaying abroad whatever the weather.

7. CCT venues – Canary Wharf Only opening in June of 2013 it’s still a fresh and vibrant conference facility. We’ve hosted quite a few events here, due to its state of the art facilities and great views.

8. The Hospital Club

Although I’m not cool enough to feel comfortable around the members of this ultra-trendy members club, it’s a great place for product launches and so well located. We even utilised the oneway system on the road, as a sort of conduit for the products (bikes) to be cycled around the outside of the venue by the guests.

9. The HAC Love this venue. Who knew there was a full size cricket pitch in Old Street by the way.

10. The Churchill War Rooms Our client - a cyber-security firm -were looking for somewhere to host an on-brand event. Where better than the historic underground complex that housed a British government command centre throughout the Second World War? 11. The Waldorf Hilton We’ve been wanting to use the enchanting Palm Court since we started our business. We have now booked a major client in there for September *power slides* 12. One Horse Guards The trickiest brief we’ve had to date. To find a balcony overlooking the last stretch of the Tour De France, with live screening facilities and a tight budget.

One venues worked wonders for us on this one.

11) RANDOM THINGS WE’VE DONE (AND YOU SHOULD TOO) 1. Get a boat down Camden Lock Grab a few cans from the off-licence, pay your £20 per person, sit back and relax. So long as you have the sun, you really can enjoy the river; as an acoustic musician serenades you and your friends towards Liverpool (don’t worry, they turn back a tad before).

►

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THE MAD WORLD ACCORDING TO SHOUTABOUT LONDON A place to take the kids and watch over 1,000 (yep you read that right) 1,000 choreographed fountains, spectacularly lit up during the evening.

11. Vestal Voyages Setting off from the above, Granary Square (although this is probably not one for the kids) down Regents Canal. ‘Pop-up Vodka drinking experience’ possibly the greatest four, *coughs* or five, words you’ll hear this summer.

10) MUSIC VENUES WE’VE BEEN TO 1. The Grafton NW5 An achingly cool acoustic night, run on a Tuesday night by the Maida Vales Paul Littler.

2. Dans le noir Blind tasting, literally. A pitch black restaurant with surprise menus.

If you’re brave enough, make sure you take a look (you know what I mean).

3. Medieval Banquet As soon as you enter, you’re immersed in the world, as was, in the years of King Henry VIII and his mistress of the time: Anne Boleyn. With stage acts from the period, wenches serving the drinks, lots of banging on tables and all set within a back drop of Tower Hill’s stunning Ivory Vaults. Plus, they give you stuff to dress up in – whoop!

4. Punch Drunk As theatre productions go, this is certainly one of the quirkiest.

You follow the actors around, can be separated from your party and quite often, surrounded by people wearing masks, including yourself. Not quite taking part in Eyes Wide Shut, but the next best thing I guess.

5. Drunch A Gin Boat in Hackney, £19.50 all you can drink. Erm… yes!

6. Bounce A ping pong bar. And no, before you say it, not like the ones in Thailand. Beer and healthy competition, gotta love it.

7. Vertical Chill For £35-£50 per hour you can learn to climb on an indoor ice wall.

No really! A stone’s throw from Covent Garden, you probably didn’t even know it existed.

8. Hip Hop Karaoke A world famous night out in legendary bar: the Social.

9. Roundhouse beach No sea side in London? For a few months a year the Camden Roundhouse brings the beach to us. Cracking day out.

10. Granary Square 36

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2. Eventium Apollo Hammersmith I had the pleasure of seeing the Sugar Man himself. (A very old) Sixto Rodriguez. (idea side-sish: 606 Club - South Kensington… if you like Jazz, this little gem is described by Jamie Cullum as “London’s best music venue”. Great food, an incredible array of musicians and a wonderfully intimate atmosphere.)

3. The Gallery – WH Owned by the team behind the Alice House, this bar makes its mark with a cosy wooden aesthetic, often a cracking 60’s music playlist and great acoustic acts on a Sunday. Had some very heavy nights in here.

THE MAD WORLD ACCORDING TO SHOUTABOUT LONDON 9) PRIVATE HIRE VENUES WITH A DIFFERENCE 1. Aveqia A Swedish concept ‘Active cooking’ has come to London after ten years thriving in Stockholm. Anxious to distance itself from being mistaken for a cooking school.

This is a networking event in a relaxed environment where the focal point is the food. After all, “The art of networking is not working”.

2. Temple Bar Everyone will have seen this venue, as it’s directly opposite St. Pauls Cathedral. However, not many will know you can hire it out for a private dinner for up to 12 guests. If you like to show off with something a little different, you should check this out.

3. Sketch If you’re looking for somewhere different in the West End, this certainly fits the bill. You could eat five times in one week here and the only thing that remains the same is the quality of the food. Every room is unique, you can keep going and it still feels new every time.

4. The Crypt Run by our friends at the Bleeding Heart (a fantastic restaurant

by Farringdon/Chancery Lane) the Crypt hosted Henry VIII’s three day wedding feast in 1531. For a man where food and wine 4. Sebright Arms

was everything, (apart for women and burning the odd heretic

We had the pleasure of seeing our friends from up and coming Irish

obviously) I think that’s a ringing endorsement for any private

band, Raglans, here a few months ago. A grungy venue loaded

dinner or drinks reception.

with talent, tattoos and beards.

5. Vault London

5. Wiltons Music Hall

A good friend of ours brought this party on wheels to show us last

The world’s oldest surviving music hall. Music, film and theatre. A

year. We’ve been hooked ever since. A double decker party bus

simple must for the Londoner’s Londoner. (Note to self: don’t ever

with a bar, DJ and lighting.

use that phrase again.)

If only travelling to work was this fun for all of us. ►

6. Proud Camden A lot of people give this place stick, as it’s been around a long time and is an easy target. Well, I still love it. Decadent, dark, dingy and very, very Camden. We’ve seen tonnes of bands in here and will see many more I’m sure.

7. The Old Queens Head – Camden Managed to get down for Mike Skinners DJ set (not quite the Streets, but nothing is.) I’ve seen a few acts in here now and even played myself. A great night out.

8. Ronnie Scott’s – Shaftsbury Avenue A bit obvious, but as an institution we’ve frequented a few times this year it deserves a mention. If you haven’t been here, you simply must tick it off your list.

9. The 02 The most obvious one on the list. It’s only on here because I went to see Frank Turner sell it out. It was incredible. I’ve seen tonnes of artists here and he was as good as any of them.

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THE MAD WORLD ACCORDING TO SHOUTABOUT LONDON

6. Hoxton Hotel A ‘no rip-off’ policy (cans of coke at 50p for instance) this is

1. I’ve got three hats on today

Shoreditch in a building. Unique rooms, really cool staff and an

No you haven’t. You haven’t got any hats on. You’re a liar, don’t

event space as quirky as it gets. Certainly one of our favourite

ever talk to me again

Hotels in its price range and above.

2. Perfect venue for all occasions

7. Earlham Street Clubhouse

Perfect for ALL occasions is it. Really? Perfect?

Three amazing things about this venue:

We find it hard to find one venue perfect for ANY occasion, there

You can serve your own beer from a petrol pump

is always a sacrifice, always. So how can you be perfect for all

You can serve your own beer from a petrol pump.

occasions and why does any other venue get any business then?

You can serve your own beer from a petrol pump.

*Shoots PR team*

All good points. Oh and their pizzas, you have to try the pizzas.

3. I’ve just been working such long hours

8. Level 39

So how come every time I phone you after 17:00 there’s no-one

Europe’s largest technology accelerator space for finance, retail

in the office?

and future cities technology companies. There’s a lot of words in

4. Getting Canapé and Canopy mixed up

that sentence but basically it can be a private hire space for the

That only annoys me because I still do it. ALL THE TIME. *shelters

technologically advanced. Did I mention you can make a latte from an iPad? 9. London Fields Brewery A fantastic new venue set in the heart of Hackney East London.

It operates out of two large railway arches, with an outdoor courtyard joining the two areas. They brew their own beer and have an awesome sound -proofed space with a stage and sound system. I said, they brew their own beer.

38

8) ANNOYING EVENTS PHRASES

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under a prawn* 5. Venue finders are dead, it’s all on line now Can you tell how good a restaurants food is by looking at pictures?

No! So how can you tell whether a venue’s right for a client from the comfort of your living room? You can’t can you? No. So why don’t you go upstairs, take a shower, get dressed and get yourself down there before you book 200 CEOs into a stationary cupboard just because it’s off Oxford Street. (Unless it’s a big

THE MAD WORLD ACCORDING TO SHOUTABOUT LONDON cupboard and the event is for Ryman’s. Then well done for thinking

I managed to witness Arsenal’s FA Cup triumph at Wembley this

outside the box.) I’ll get my coat.

year. What a spectacular occasion in one of the world’s finest

6. You can’t get business from cold calling

sporting arenas. I’m not sure if I managed to get my point across

Nope you’re right. We get all ours by photosynthesis. It’s a real

there, sorry.

bugger in the winter but in the summer we literally sweat clients. It’s

Arsenal. Won. The. FA Cup.

all champagne and golf in this industry.

6. Bumper cars, pool and table tennis at Namco

7. I won’t network with other venues, what’s the point? I’m far

Does this count as a sporting venue? Not sure but every time we’re

too busy (and important) for that.

here I leave sweating. That counts as a sport to me.

•

What if you need to recruit more staff one day?

7. Silverstone Grand Prix

•

What if they move on and become an events manager for

We provide VIP tickets for these type of events and sometimes

Google or Coca Cola one day?

even get to go along ourselves. Aren’t we lucky…

•

What if you can swap leads when you don’t have availability?

What if you want to move on one day and you need a ‘foot

6) PUBLIC SPEAKERS / PRESENTERS WE’VE SEEN THAT BLEW US AWAY

in the door’?

1. Jordan Belfort

What about sharing industry knowledge and enhancing

Subject of the movie ‘Wolf of Wall Street’. This man knows how to

what you’re doing in your venue?

hold a room. And he swears more than I do, so thank you Jordan,

•

What about….?

I salute you.

•

Actually, nope you’re right. It’s absolutely pointless. What

2. Will Broome

were we thinking?

We love him – so there….

That will help you and the clients out.

• •

8. Social media? It’s pointless. I haven’t got time to waste on

3. Jonathon McDonald

such frivolous pursuits.

A very interesting talk on the ‘thought expansion network’ – very

Frivolous – good word.

highly recommended.

7) SPORTING ACTIVITIES WE’VE ENJOYED

4. Katie Riley We saw Katie (from Sky Sports) at an event last year and quickly

1. Go Ape

snapped her up to help out at our launch parties in July and

About ten minutes from Cockfosters, this is a really cool team-

September.

building activity set in the trees. Alternatively, you can go with the

5. Kanya King

family and watch your two little brothers take all the hard routes,

The founder of the MOBO’s, talking at Confex this year, inspiring.

whilst you cower against the bark like you’re tied to the trunk trying

6. Stephen Frost, Andy Smart, Steve Steen and Ian Coppinger

to save the rain forest. That happened to a friend of mine by the

The English version of whose line is it anyway. And what a line up

way. Not me.

they were. ►

2. Top Golf If you don’t like the idea of walking 18 holes, this is a really cool alternative. Think ‘driving range’ with things to aim at. With mixed distances it’s good for all standards and great for the whole family.

3. Urban Golf A great place for a meeting if you don’t have time to do a whole round. A simulated screen is not as satisfying as hitting a 3 iron straight down the fairway. However; beer and food whilst you play kind of makes up for it. Plus you can still be comfortable if it rains.

4. Battersea Park Football I’ve just started playing a game once a week in Battersea Park.

Anyone can turn up and play and it’s been going for almost 20 years. Just thought it deserved a mention really.

5. The FA Cup Final PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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THE MAD WORLD ACCORDING TO SHOUTABOUT LONDON 2. Gordon’s Wine bar (Charing Cross) The oldest wine bar in London. As you enter, you find yourself in a room with old wooden walls, covered in historical newspaper cuttings and memorabilia faded with age. Make your way to the cellar and you need to stoop to get to your rickety candlelit table – anonymity is guaranteed! If the sun is out you can also sit outside in Watergate walk and enjoy watching the world go by.

3. The Players Bar (Charing Cross) This ‘hidden gem’ venue has everything you need for an unforgettable experience under one roof. The theatre, a former Victorian music hall, offers an eclectic mix of drama, musicals, comedy, cabaret and even some late night shows.

Then rub shoulders with the stars over a pint and a piano.

4. London Wonder Ground (South Bank) A packed programme of circus, cabaret and family entertainment.

Revolving bar, 1920’s décor, buzzing atmosphere and open to the

5) NETWORKING EVENTS WE’VE BEEN TO

elements. Been here too many times this summer already…

1. Kensington Roof Gardens

3) TV PROGRAMMES THAT SUM UP OUR BRAND

07th August. A date that sticks in our mind, as it’s when we opened

1. The Office (UK)

the Shout About offices for the first time. To celebrate, we went

Sarcasm and dry humour. It’s what gets us through the day

to see our friends at the Roof Gardens during their summer

(and helps us ignore number 8 on this list).

showcase. Note to self: drink less at these things.

2. Suits

2. 20/20 Speed Networking

Suave, sophisticated, wealthy and intelligent.

Simply the best way of doing events business.

Trying to think how I can justify any of them against myself actually

3. 25th Anniversary of Universal Experience at the HAC

3. The Apprentice

We had fantastic weather for it, a great funfair of activities, BBQ

Everything’s a competition. Everything

food and cocktails. They’ve been throwing parties for a quarter of a century, no wonder it was a good one.

4. COOL Venue Awards at Ministry of Sound Put together by the guys from Prestige Events magazine (you’re holding their work now) the COOL Venue Awards is one of the hottest ‘event events’ of the year. We sponsored ‘COOLest New Venue’ won by The Shard. What a night. Every year it gets bigger and every year they keep pushing the boundaries.

5) EAST WINTERGARDEN – WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY?

2) LAUNCH EVENTS 1. Venue-only launch We took over DSTRKT nightclub for our Launch Party, with the help of some of our awesome suppliers. We engaged on social media by having our guests RSVP via Twitter and created a massive buzz. We certainly haven’t seen this done before and it worked well for us. It was a fantastic night that you can catch snippets of by checking out #ShoutAboutLaunch on Twitter 2. Clients launch

It really was utterly fantastic. It’s really helpful to see venues in use

DSTRKT will be re-opening its doors at the end of August after a

to get a feel for the acoustics and what a client can experience on

renovation. Our September client event will be one of the first (if

the night. Faultless.

not the first) corporate event in the new venue. It is going to be

4) COOL NIGHTS OUT 1. Cabaret at Café de Paris (Leicester Square) This is about 100 year old now. Age never bothered me. Still a really cool place to go.

one to see….

1) SHOUT ABOUT LONDON 1.www.shoutaboutlondon.com PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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OUR TOP 40 EVENT AGENCIES FOR YOUR SPEED-DIAL

OUR TOP 40 EVENT AGENCIES FOR YOUR SPEED-DIAL 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 42

BANKS SADLER DRP SMART GROUP GRASS ROOTS SHOUTABOUT LONDON CONCERTO LIVE CHEW EVENTS GEORGE P JOHNSON IMAGINATION ITA* CWT MEETINGS & EVENTS MOTIVCOM PEARL ROCK AND RAVEN SINCURA GROUP FACTORY MEDIA SLINGSHOT SPONSORSHIP PARTRIDGE EVENTS GSP LIMITED VIVID EVENTS OPTIX EVENTS JACK MORTON WORDLWIDE BLUEHAT GROUP SMYLE EASTVILLE ASSOCIATES BRAND BREWERY DEMONWHEELERS CRAZY COW EVENTS BLITZ COMMUNICATIONS CAXTON MANOR FLARE COMMUNICATIONS E2E EVENTS XCLUSIVE TOUCH EDEN ESSENTIAL BLUE ICE MANAGEMENT FISHER PRODUCTIONS TRO LEAP PLC PURE EVENTS BLUE ICE MANAGEMENT HILLGATE SOLUTIONS

PrestigeEventsGuide.com

“..Which all-round event agencies would you recommend from your experiences?” Is one of the most common questions we’re asked.

So here’s the answer for you event planners. Just don’t forget to tell them where you heard!

AGENCY PROFILE: DRP GROUP What’s the modus operdandi of your agency?

I guess the modus operandi of the drpgroup would be our strapline which is “anything’s possible”, will try to deliver on this for all our clients cost dependent.

What are you’re the USP’s of your company?

The USP for us is the fact we have everything in house, so we’re able to drive costs down and there is less of a communications break down with everyone working across from each other.

Who’s on your client list?

We have a variety of clients from a variety of sectors to name a few Sainsbury’s, Nationwide, Worcester Bosch, JCB and Jaguar Land Rover.

What is the COOLest event your company has been involved in?

We have so many events we work on and for us to be able decide on the coolest would be hard. But our involvement with the Paralympics Games 2012 was pretty cool.

5/ Where do you see your agency in 5 years?

The drpgroup hopes to have doubled in size in capacity of team and also turnover, whilst continuing to deliver exceptional work for our clients.

And lastly, what one word sums up your agency?

Innovative

AGENCY PROFILE: BANKS SADLER 1/ What’s the modus operdandi of your agency?

Your partner in successful events

OUR TOP 40 EVENT AGENCIES FOR YOUR SPEED-DIAL What is the COOLest event your company has been involved

What are you’re the USP’s of your company?

Market-leading,

consultative,

approachable,

knowledgable,

in?

passionate.

A full day session hosted at the HAC for trade delegates from Asia,

Who’s on your client list?

incorporating a British social etiquette session and formal dinner

Multinational corporates, pharmaceutical & healthcare companies,

Where do you see your agency in 5 years?

technology providers, media companies and a host of leading

As the go to organisation for all board level conflict resolutions

global brands.

and used by at least 50% of the FTSE 100 to enhance all team

What is the COOLest event your company has been involved

dynamics in key functions

in?

And lastly, what one word sums up your agency?

JLL Live – we brought together 2,000 staff from across the UK

Bespoke or Turnkey

for a 1 day event which included a festival theme. The aim of the

We find the 20:20 speed network events invaluable to our

event was to get staff to “jump in, be agile, think creatively and act

business for sourcing venues for our training. Wesley and his

differently”.

team understand our need for iconic high end venues that offer

Where do you see your agency in 5 years?

a discrete and impeccable service with facilities that are market

Leading global events management agency with offices worldwide

leading

and event experience across multiple sectors And lastly, what one word sums up your agency?

Passionate AGENCY PROFILE: SLINGSHOT SPONSORSHIP What’s the modus operdandi of your agency?

We work exceptionally hard helping our clients uncover and build new revenue streams (typically through sourcing and securing AGENCY PROFILE: EASTVILLE ASSOCIATES

sponsorship) to help them realise their business potential.

What’s the modus operdandi of your agency?

What are you’re the USP’s of your company?

Eastville Associates is an executive training company specialising

We have the combined skill set of being incredibly commercially

in Team Dynamics, Conflict Resolution and Crisis Media

savvy, but with a creative eye for detail around brand engagement.

Handling & Planning. We work with companies to write bespoke

We also help secure sponsorship for a diverse range of industries

programmes to address current issues. Typically we work at Board

including music, sport, charity, and events which enables us to

or senior executive level

become a hub of best practice sponsorship.

What are you’re the USP’s of your company?

Who’s on your client list?

We base a lot of our interventions around “Strength Deployment

Our client and sponsor list is very diverse and vast including

Inventory” {sdi} which identifies individual motivators and then

everyone from Marussia F1 to Haymarket Consumer Publishing

highlights the changes in these when under conflict. This allows

to Carphone Warehouse.

us to focus on individual communication styles that are the most

What is the COOLest event your company has been involved

effective. All of our interventions are written on a bespoke basis for

in?

our clients to address current business issues. We have a network

We manage and secure all the sponsorship for award winning

of associates to allow us to provide industry and country specific

Outlook & Dimension festivals based in Croatia. With over 14

consultants for a “best fit” with the client.

stages surrounding the most beautiful scenery, there is no better

Who’s on your client list?

place to be in August.

We operate a strict confidentiality policy with our clients , but

5/ Where do you see your agency in 5 years?

typically they are FTSE 100 companies most recently in the

Although we already have three other international offices (Brazil,

automotive, telecommunications, logistics and pharmaceutical

Singapore, and Oslo), I am aiming to act and work much more

sectors. The Honorable Artillery Company are happy for us to

globally.

make public our association with them. We also supply consultancy

6/ and lastly, what one word sums up your agency?

editorial services to News Corp UK { previously News International}

Enterprising.

PrestigeEventsGuide.com

43

LORD JASON SCOTT: HOW TO WIN AN ARGUMENT

LORD JASON SCOTT: HOW TO WIN AN ARGUMENT If you want to change someone’s opinion, ask them how they

In line with Fernbach’s hypothesis, folks who gave their reasons

would do something instead of why.

for being right were just as convinced of their convictions after the experiment as they were beforehand. But the people who had

Yes, I was googling, “ How to win an argument!” and came

to explain the mechanics of implementation had suddenly softer

across this gem amongst more nonsense then you could pack

views. Not only that — they also gave themselves a lower rating

into a Monty Python skit. The insight comes from University of

on their understanding of the subject.

Colorado psychologist Philip M. Fernbach in a paper with the telling title “Political Extremism Is Supported by an Illusion

The two takeaways:

of Understanding.” His theory: Political extremists might be a

•

touch less extreme if they had to explain just how their favored

partner/nemesis to explain how their perspective can be

policy would create the changes they sought, as opposed to listing off the reasons that they’re right.

If you want to win an argument, ask your friend/colleague/ brought into reality.

•

If you want to remain convinced of your position, don’t just bring your reasons for why you’re right to the debate —

For the experiment, Fernbach asked two groups of online

make sure to bring along implementations too.

participants to give their opinions on a variety of controversial and complex policy issues, such as healthcare and Iran.

But this kind of rhetorical humility is more rare than you think. “Freakonomics” coauthor and University of Chicago

Mind Hacks detailed the experiment:

psychologist Steven Levitt told us that in all of the consulting

One group was asked to give their opinion and then provide

he’s done, one pattern is clear: “Businesspeople, especially in

reasons for why they held that view. This group got the

front of their bosses, have an almost unlimited ability to sit back

opportunity to put their side of the issue, in the same way anyone

and mint answers they don’t know.”

in an argument or debate has a chance to argue their case.

Those in the second group did something subtly different. Rather

So if like me, are always looking for the edge, then I hope the

than provide reasons, they were asked to explain how the policy

above helps. That said let me leave you with this thought from a

they were advocating would work. They were asked to trace, step

man far wiser then I.

by step, from start to finish, the causal path from the policy to the effects it was supposed to have.

“Differences are not intended to separate, to alienate. We are different precisely in order to realize our need of one another.” ―

The results were striking.

Desmond Tutu PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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TOP 10: ROOFTOP BARS

TOP 10 ROOFTOP BARS IN LONDON!

By Hope Mendy

1

1/ RADIO ROOFTOP BAR, ME LONDON, THE STRAND

2

Since it’s relatively recent launch, Radio (the adjoining building was the site of London’s original BBC broadcasting house hence the Marconi bar downstairs) has remained one of the most desirable rooftop bars in London. You can see pretty much everything from up there! The Houses of Parliament, Somerset

3

House, the London Eye, St.Pauls, The Shard, Canary Wharf, the list goes on!

2/ THE ROOF GARDENS

London’s original roof garden is a timeless Classic, boasting three distinctly themed gardens, spanning one and a half acres, one hundred feet above the bustling Kensington High Street below.

This beautiful horticultural wonderland really is spectacular for events and parties of all kinds, for up to 500 guests.

3/ THE SKY GARDEN AT 20 FENCHURCH STREET Set to open later this year, the Sky Garden will span three floors, constituting a huge open sided landscaped garden, a bar, a fine dining restaurant (Heston Blumenthal and Rhubarb), a terrace and a viewing platform providing stunning views, as if the garden itself isn’t awe inspiring enough!

4

4/ DALSTON ROOF PARK

5

Membership is just a fiver for the whole summer (slightly better value than the snobby Shoreditch House down the road). What’s more, you get to attend al fresco movie screenings and music

events whilst pop-up street stalls are a regular feature for roof-top revellers to enjoy. A really great place, for all the right reasons.

5. ASPERS SKY BAR Nestled atop the stratford westfield centre in early 2012 because of its extraordinary location. The usp for the sky bar is the fact that it’s extensive barbecue terrace, which can cater for up to 250 guests, looks straight down olympic avenue to the iconic olympic stadium.

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PrestigeEventsGuide.com

6

TOP 10: ROOFTOP BARS

6/ VISTA, TRAFALGAR SQUARE Perched neatly on top of the Trafalgar Hotel, Vista is a stunning open air rooftop bar. Refreshingly it offers views of ‘old London’

7

rather than the rather more generic, new age skyscrapers. It’s an intimate and sophisticated space, ideal for one-on-one cocktails or small champagne receptions.

7/ MADISON, ONE NEW CHANGE This place may boast one of the largest public roof terraces in Europe, but it’s the sensational and iconic view of St.Paul’s Cathedral that this bar is gaining notoriety for. Perfect for relaxed dining in the tapas bar or just hanging out with a cocktail on the stylish and sophisticated roof terrace. Cosy and cool.

8

8/ THE BERKELEY HOTEL ROOFTOP POOL & SPA

With a retractable roof (how cool is that?) and views just above the tree line over Knightsbridge towards Park Lane and Hyde Park, It’d be the perfect space for a drinks reception or even a product launch.

9 10

9/ AQUA KYOTO & AQUA NUEVA, REGENT STREET The rooftop view is more ‘West End’ than ‘City’, resulting in a quintessential London experience rather than the more modern architecture of say the Shard or the Heron Tower. The clientele are generally highly stylish too and the terrace takes on a distinctly luxury holiday vibe feel (complete with resident DJ) once the sun has set.

10/ SUSHISAMBA

Perched on top of the world SushiSamba benefits from sensational views of all the more aesthetic erections that surround it. Inside, it’s magnificent but the fact that you are allowed to go outside is simply awe-inspiring. I’m referring to their two external dining terraces overlooking the City on one side and the Olympic park on the other from their vantage point, 175 metres above street level, which makes them the highest in Europe. Perfect!

PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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Galleries are having a moment and we love it!

By Hope Mendy

We’ve always had a soft spot for a good art gallery, and whilst those in the know have always championed their accessibility it’s never been so sensationalised in the media as a fun day out since 2007 when a Slide was installed in the Tate Modern by Matthew Pillsbury.

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PrestigeEventsGuide.com

GALLERIES & EVENTS THE SOUTHBANK CENTRE

with Masks 1953 at 10 metres long is shown in all its glory. A

Pioneering fun accessible art (It is on the Southbank after all)

photograph of Matisse’s studio reveals that these works were

between Tuesday 17 June and Sunday 07 September 2014 International artists will confront the question of how we represent the ‘human’ today. The Human Factor surveys how artists over the past 25 years have reinvented figurative sculpture, looking back to earlier movements in art history and drawing on contemporary imagery as the artists engage in dialogues

initially conceived as a unified whole, and this is the first time they will have been together in over 50 years. Matisse’s famous series of Blue Nudes represent the artist’s renewed interest in the figure and London is first to host, before the exhibition travels to New York at the Museum of Modern Art and after which the works return to galleries and private owners around the world.

with modernist, classical and archaic models of art. Across their work, the figure is a catalyst for exploring concerns from political violence and mortality to sexuality and voyeurism. The exhibition will feature works by over 20 leading international artists including Pawel Althamer, Frank Benson, Huma Bhabha and Katharina Fritsch. Considering the focus on how the mainstream media promotes an ideal body image this exhibition is a guaranteed networking gem and will make you seem infinitely more cultured

THE SERPENTINE GALLERY In a unique work created for the Serpentine, the internationally acclaimed artist Marina Abramović will perform in the Gallery for the duration of her exhibition: 10am to 6pm, 6 days a week.

Creating the simplest of environments in the Gallery spaces, Abramović’s only materials will be herself, the audience and a

than you actually are.

selection of common objects that she will use in a constantly

THE V&A

and metaphorically leave their baggage behind in order to enter

Swarovski partners up with the V&A in bringing Alexander

the exhibition: bags, jackets, electronic equipment, watches and

McQueen: Savage Beauty to London. The crystal house and Alexander McQueen share a rich history, beginning in the 1990s when the legendary Isabella Blow introduced the young maverick designer to Nadja Swarovski. Swarovski went on to support McQueen’s Spring/Summer 1999 collection, the first of numerous collaborations including the creation, alongside Tord Boontje, of the V&A’s Grand Entrance crystal Christmas tree in 2003; and the dramatic Swarovski Gemstone-encrusted Bird’s Nest Headdress for his Autumn/Winter 2006 collection. Swarovski has worked with designers since Daniel Swarovski’s precision-cut stones

changing sequence of events. On arrival, visitors will both literally

cameras may not accompany them. The public will become the performing body, participating in the delivery of an unprecedented moment in the history of performance art. This is the first major performance by Abramović since her monumental piece The Artist is Present, at the Museum of Modern Art, New York in 2010, in which visitors were invited to sit in silence opposite the artist and gaze into her eyes for an unspecified amount of time.

Abramović performed this work every day for three months. Its guaranteed to be something you won’t ever forget and a major coup for the Serpentine.

became prized ingredients in the dressmaking ateliers of Paris, beginning the tradition of close collaboration between Swarovski and haute couture that remains to this day. Whilst McQueen

BEST OF THE REST WE’VE SEEN

may gain favour with your fashion focused friends, this isn’t one necessarily for you to brag about but one for you to enjoy. The

SAATCHI GALLERY - PANGAEA: NEW ART

spectacle, the drama, and any magpie tendencies completely

FROM AFRICA AND LATIN AMERICA

catered for.

2 APRIL - 2 NOVEMBER

THE TATE MODERN We’ve all seen Matisse’s work. In Habitat, your hippy friends bathroom and on a card in Paperchase but for the first time all his known work is being shown in the Tate. The exhibition marks an historic moment, when Matisse’s work from around the world can be seen together. Tate’s The Snail 1953 is shown alongside its sister work Memory of Oceania 1953 and Large Composition

PHOTOGRAPHERS GALLERY - UNDER THE INFLUENCE, JOHN DEAKIN AND THE LURE OF SOHO MAY 29 - JULY 13

CAMDEN ARTS CENTRE – MOYRA DAVEY MAY 29 – JUNE 29

PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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WORLD CUP 2014:

WHAT WORKED…AND DIDN’T What we can learn from this year’s World Cup (yes we mention Suarez),

by Hope Mendy A BAD BEGINNING IS OKAY The Opening ceremony can be described with one word; lacking.

in this world, and even the underdog is still a position that needs

Maybe it was the brilliant memory of our own Olympic, Danny

to be filled. Do a job well or not at all. Be the surprise they aren’t

Boyle directed, Oscar worthy Opening Ceremony but Jlo, Pitbull

expecting.

and that other chick just didn’t cut it this year. The costumes of the dancers looked sloppy, the music seemed too quiet and there

MANNERS ARE EVERYTHING

was just too much space on the floor. Regardless this year was as

Suarez is undoubtedly one of the best players on the scene right

entertaining as ever and Brazil were excellent hosts to the game.

now yet the backlash when he bit someone for the THIRD time

EVEN THE GREATEST FALL

on the pitch was sarcasm and disgust at its finest. Memes were made, hashtags were formed and the world truly turned its backs

Spain suffered early on and whilst we all couldn’t believe our

on one of the finest football players in recent years. Manners are

eyes haven’t we all felt a bit too cocksure, a bit too confident and

everything, no matter how high you get.

comfortable and fallen at the first hurdle? Leaving tails between their legs Spain were the first true victim of the tournament and a

POLITICS AND BUSINESS DON’T MIX

great lesson to us all; failing doesn’t mean you’re a failure.

The hostility from Brazilians (a country deep in poverty) towards

THE WORLD IS EVERYONE’S OYSTER This year more than any in recent memory has truly showcased that even teams like Chile could be in the running for the title.

Much like in business, you may be good but there are other’s out there just as good as you. You have to work for what you want 50

PrestigeEventsGuide.com

hosting the event was well publicised and media hype suggested that the event wouldn’t go on. Even us football fans at Prestige could’ve understood why, yet it did with minor interference.

It proved that whilst, yes, sometimes the world is cruel and situations grossly unfair, money talks and greed can still indirectly do good.

WORLD CUP 2014: WHAT WORKED…AND DIDN’T

PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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VENUE PORTFOLIO FOCUS: CENTER PARCS

BORING? NOOO! Center Parcs offers something refreshingly different for the entire meetings and events market, with purpose built ‘Venues’ at each Village, each bespoke and equipped with first class facilities. With dedicated and friendly staff,

BESPOKE? YES! Woburn Forest will comprise of 625 luxury forest lodges, a 75

bedroom hotel and an Aqua Sana Spa. Also on site will be a range of indoor and outdoor team building activities, as well as retail and restaurant outlets synonymous with Center Parcs Villages.

and excellent service delivered by passionate professionals, the Center Parcs Villages provide memorable options for both delegates and event organisers. The meetings and events team is also well versed in what conference and event organisers are looking for, and will do their utmost to be flexible, recommending alternative options where necessary. The freedom to explore the natural surroundings adds to the sense of adventure, and provides each and every delegate with a sense of anticipation before their visit.

WOBURN FOREST

Millbrook, Bedford, Central Bedfordshire MK45 2HZ INFO 03448 267 715; @CP_UK_Events

There are 365 acres of natural woodland to be enjoyed at

Woburn Forest, including the fantastic conference centre that overlooks the iconic lake, home to a vast array of water sports.

Woburn Forest will also feature many of the team building options

and leisure activities currently available to corporate guests.

Delegates can overcome their fears with adrenaline fuelled

activities at the Outdoor Activity Centre or Action Challenge. Also

accommodating for the calmer of delegates, Woburn Forest will feature the world-famous Aqua Sana Spa. Whatever the weather,

the wide range of activities is sure to encourage your active business mind.

Nestled in 365 acres of woodland, the newest Village, Woburn

Getting there

design is the most exciting with beautiful undulating forest

to Flitwick Train Station (from London St Pancras International

Forest will showcase all of Center Parcs’ latest innovations. The

landscapes,the iconic Subtropical Swimming Paradise, views over the lake and forest with modern Lodges bringing guests

closer to nature. Woburn Forest is Center Parcs’ fifth Village and is located less than an hour from London with good road, rail and air links.

Easy access from the M1 and First Capital Connect offer a service – 49 minutes), which is approximately two miles, or a 10 minute transfer away. Situated next to the beautiful Longleat Estate is the stunning Longleat Forest. The hilly landscape is truly spectacular

amongst the hundred-year-old Giant Redwoods. To get around, you can cycle, walk or catch the train.

Meetings and Events

LONGLEAT FOREST

50 minutes from London and in close proximity to the M1. In

INFO 03448 267 715; @CP_UK_Events

The new contemporary conference venue is ideally located just

January, the Center Parcs sales team started taking conference

Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7PU

and event bookings for the brand new fifth Village in Bedfordshire.

Meetings and Events

October 2014, with theatre - style seating and gala dinners for

Venue of the year (up to 750 capacity)’, Longleat Forest offers

Conferences and events at the venue will commence from up to 600 guests. The Venue comprises of eight individual

and flexible event suites, a business centre with free Wi-Fi, complimentary car parking and vehicle access.

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Team building options

PrestigeEventsGuide.com

A winner of the gold award at the Eventia awards for ‘Event

everything you need for your conference needs, varying in size for groups from 10-500. The purpose-built conference centre has a total of seven suites which can be hired individually

VENUE PORTFOLIO FOCUS: CENTER PARCS or in conjunction with each other. Longleat Forest is especially

SHERWOOD FOREST

accommodation with a variety of restaurants.

INFO 03448 267 723; @CP_UK_Events

popular for themed events. It includes a wide range of

Team building options

Longleat Forest’s surroundings provide the perfect backdrop to

any team away day. The outdoor activity centre offers adrenaline activities like paintballing, quad biking and laser combat. Unique to

Longleat Forest is the white-knuckle Zip Wire adventure. You’ll start

by climbing up a 10m tower, before flying across the spectacular lake.

Getting there

Accessed from various motorways and railway links, the nearest train station Warminster, approximately three miles away has frequent services to London Waterloo. Westbury station – approximately six miles away, connects to London Paddington.

ELVEDEN FOREST

Brandon, Suffolk, IP24 3TR.

INFO 03448 267 715; @CP_UK_Events

Sherwood Forest, Rufford, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG22 9DN Tucked away deep in the Nottinghamshire countryside, Sherwood

Forest sits in 400 acres of magnificent pineforest. There’s an invigorating mix of woodland and lakeside, the perfect setting for exploring, relaxing and spending quality time with friends and family.

Meeting and Events

Sherwood Forest has a purpose-built conference centre – ‘The

Venue’ with a range of comfortable, modern meeting rooms of varying sizes. The peaceful setting provides an ideal environment

for stimulating, motivating and inspiring delegates. It is the perfect

base for any corporate event and offers first-class facilities along with an experienced events team. The versatile space

accommodates up to 600 people theatre style or up to 500 people for a gala dinner, as well as catering for smaller, intimate events.

The Village has more than 2,000 bedrooms and a range of meeting rooms to suit all requirements.

Covering the east of England and conveniently close to historic

Team building options

forest in delightful rural Suffolk. The Village Square is at the heart of

building packages available that are designed to motivate and

Cambridge, Elveden Forest is set in over 400 acres of stunning

all the action, with the Subtropical Swimming Paradise on one side

and the Sports Plaza on the other and a variety of places to relax, eat, drink and shop.

Meeting and Events

The Elveden Forest Village has a dedicated conference centre, with a total of nine suites, and is located by the large central lake.

The Venue has a variety of meeting rooms offering diverse space for a range of events from board meetings for smaller groups, to

product launches and traditional company conferences for up to

450 delegates. Elveden Forest offers a variety of accommodation, all aiming to give delegates the perfect environment to unwind and relax amongst the woodland.

Team building options

Elveden Forest features a vast array of outdoor and indoor team building activities so you can be assured of finding something for everyone. The Action Challenge area includes activities such as

Tree Trekking, High Ropes and Aerial Adventure, so a head for

Sherwood Forest boasts an extensive range of activities and team bring out the best for team days. If you are looking to complement your conference schedule; the Action Challenge area is positioned conveniently close to The Venue and Village Square, making the

Active8 package a very popular choice with companies. Also at the

Action Challenge area are activities such as Tree Trekking, Aerial Adventure and High Ropes, so a head for heights and nerves of

steel are required. If you are looking for a fun activity with your

feet firmly on the ground, then the Outdoor Activity Centre has an impressive range of things to keep your delegates occupied, including Paintball and Laser Combat.

Getting there

Sherwood Forest’s East Midlands location ensures good access to major network routes. Just north of Nottingham and within an hour’s drive of Derby city centre, this Village is an appealing choice

for companies looking for large conference centres. The A1 and M1

are also within easy reach, while London can be reached in just 90 minutes by train to and from Newark Northgate.

heights and nerves of steel are required. If you are looking for

something on the ground and with a more competitive edge, then the outdoor activity centre features paintballing, quad biking and

laser combat. Also unique to Elveden Forest is the 500m water

Ski, located on the watersports Lake. Instructors will introduce delegates to the skills required for waterskiing, wake boarding and knee boarding.

Getting there

Well connected to various motorways and the nearest mainline station is Thetford (London Liverpool Street – 2 hours 30 minutes), which is approximately five miles away.

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VENUE FOCUS: GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR MALTA

MALTA = COOL

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VENUE FOCUS: GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR MALTA

What have the likes of Lady Gaga, Snoop Dogg, Pharrell Williams, Will.i.am, Rita Ora, Jessie J, Tom Jones, Rod Stewart, Hilary Clinton, Enrique Iglesias, Rudimental, and Wesley Mendy got in common?

All recently visited Malta. All chose to stay and host at the Grand Hotel Excelsior (two-time winner of the COOLest Overeas Venue). Now the verdict of that many wide-ranging characters

No phone camera needed to capture your everlasting memories

can’t be easily doubted.

The experience of this event venue is one to envy.

How many event venues can boast a setting in a UNESCO World Heritage site, a 5-star hotel used by leading global corporation’s and trend setters, which has it’s own olive garden, it’s own yacht harbour and a swimming pool and private beach (and we do mean private) surrounded with all-day/night restaurant and cocktail bar facilities?

How many short-haul event venues are set in regions that can regale you with legendary stories ranging from The Knights of Malta and their construction of an entire city to the wonders of Caravaggio and his notorious ‘period’, to 21st century icons/ celebrities?

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VENUE FOCUS: GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR MALTA

How many locations can claim to be so entwined with us brits?

To make the most of your group’s experience, we would also

From the Knights of the 1700’s to the crucial battles during the

strongly recommend an excursion at sea onboard one of HERA

World War 2, Malta has always stood alongside the UK.

Cruises fabulous yachts that take you around Malta and it’s beautiful cliffs, and visits it’s two smaller islands, Gozo and Comino:

Despite it’s UK influence, Malta still retains it’s own cultural flavor. The English language may be spoken by all, but Malta is definitely Malta, and not to be confused with the UK because of it’s recognition of it’s historical ties. Valletta can be described as a living experience of Baroque architecture, dotted with quaint cafes, and over 25 churches, a testament to the centuries-old grained Catholic faith of the Maltese nation.

The views of Marsamxett Harbour & Fort Manoel from Grand Hotel Excelsior are as aspirational as one could wish for. This is an island, like our own, that is at one with the seas. The Grand Hotel Excelsior hosts within it yacht harbor the Malta Boat Show each year.

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the latter is famous for it’s much publicized Blue Lagoon - which having visited and experienced, is sheer jaw-dropping for it’s beauty and the most amazing swimming experience anywhere in the Mediterranean. However, you can hire and customize a charter to follow a shorter route to your design.

Malta.

No phone camera needed to capture your everlasting memories.

Valletta.

An event city like no other in the world.

SUPPLIER FOCUS: DEMON WHEELERS

DEMON WHEELERS

GOES FOR GOLD! This Summer has seen the nation gripped by sport! We watched on as England were knocked out of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil, witnessed Djokovic claim victory at Wimbledon, cheered on the Tour De France and welcomed the Commonwealth Games to the UK for Glasgow 2014.

As specialists in team building and corporate events, we’ve certainly felt the effects of sports fever!

Our sports-themed

events have been in high demand, proving to be a fantastic way to inspire team spirit, as well as being great fun.

We recently organised a football themed event at Sopwell House in St Albans for KP Snacks. Inspired by the World Cup, the 80 guests were brimming with enthusiasm and enjoyed an action packed day of activities; from hovercrafts and archery to ‘Shoot for Goal’ and a Back of the Net Finale. The sporting fun continued into the evening, as guests had the chance to unwind with pub games that included table football, air hockey and giant Jenga.

Involving the whole family in your corporate event is a great way to boost morale by showing your appreciation to staff and their loved ones. Children and parents (including those who are big kids at heart!) are bound to enjoy a sports day. United Biscuits recently treated 500 employees and family members to a family fun day that included Inflatable Assault Courses, Laser Tag, Coconut Climbing Trees, Fun Side Stalls and even Donkey Rides. The event went down a treat with everyone involved!

With the hot weather set to continue, there’s still plenty of time left to book Summer team building activities or corporate event.

Whether you fancy your very own sports day or something completely different we have over 100 activities to choose from!

Visit our website at www.demonwheelers.co.uk to find out more or contact us on 0114 2700330 / info@demonwheelers.co.uk.

Magna PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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PEARL ROCK AND RAVEN

2 x Ladies + 1 COOL Agency = DAMNFCKNGCOOL 60

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PEARL ROCK AND RAVEN lavish parties, awards ceremonies and music festivals, they set up Pearl, Rock & Raven, taking not just their CV’s but their lives as mood boards for the kind of events they wanted to throw. Pearl and Hollie have lived the event world and since the launch of Pearl, Rock & Raven in 2013 they have planned an exotic private party in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, a wrap party for the National Ballet of Canada, several music events and fashion parties for leading brands such as JOSEPH and Prism.

“I love how working in events always has you thinking on your feet” says Pearl “Once when I was working at another agency

The being cool is a bit of a contradiction in itself. You

we had to get hold of 300 oysters for a very glamorous Russian

don’t try to be cool, you just are. With this in mind

party at 7pm on a Friday night as an order never arrived. In the

organising an event that you want to have the cool

end the only place that came through was Harrods. I got a very

factor can be tricky. Are coloured lights too try hard?

funny reception on the telephone when I called in a fluster asking

Are canapés? You need the right event organiser to

for 300 oysters to be reserved under the name Pearl!”

bring this to your venue and we’ve found a company at the top of the game…

“We love planning international events - throwing a party for 75 people in Morocco at the start of PR&R was a real highlight. The

Pearl and Hollie of Pearl, Rock and Raven manage to within

Atlas Mountains is a phenomenally beautiful place to have a party

moments of meeting them the exact ambience you want at your

with pretty much year round sunshine and only 3.5 hours from

event; relaxed, fun and you don’t want to be anywhere else. Both

London.”

born to Music Industry Fathers, they met on the set of a music video in the 1980’s and have known each other since then.

Pearl, Rock and Raven can turn their hand at anything you throw at them, and most importantly they approach it with such gusto,

Pearl started out at a leading London-based events boutique,

enthusiasm and good old fashioned manners that you’ll be left

including events at the Tate Modern and a cocktail party for David

not just proud of your event, but happy with the entire process.

Attenborough to celebrate 50 years at the BBC. As Director of Events at The Cuckoo Club, she helped build the club’s notorious reputation for spectacular parties, attracting clients including Christian Dior, Warner Music, Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank and Max Factor. Organising the” I Feel Love” party with The Cuckoo Club at Il Bottaccio in 2012, Pearl got to work with some of Ibiza’s biggest DJs such as Jamie Jones and the rest of the Hot Creations record label. These contacts come in handy when organising parties for house music lovers!

Hollie’s career is just as impressive including periods in television casting and hair and make-up design, as well as events. One highlight was planning a rock n’ roll inspired wedding in Holland Park. All of her experience pays credit to her strong creative spirit and her keen eye for detail, something she is able to use freely at Pearl, Rock and Raven!

After many years of friendship, during which the two have frequently worked together, and the shared experience of many PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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SUPPLIER FOCUS: RAVENOUS

TIME TO GET RAVENOUS

by Hope Mendy

Ravenous Catering have always been a bold game player

So how did you get into the Catering industry?

in the Catering field so when Ali Warburton said she’d tell us

Since age 19 I have been in catering – The year after I left school I

about her journey and expertise gained along the way, we

set up a sandwich company which I ran on a contra deal from 151

couldn’t say no. The perfect mix of professionalism and fun;

Club on Kings Road. I had the idea of sending out pretty young

Ali is a delight to speak to knowing that her greatest talent

boys and girls with Moses baskets and selling extraordinary

is that she offers the whole package. Ali says; 2014 for us

sandwiches into shops and offices up and down Kings Rd,

is the promise of the continued delivery and development

Sloane Sq and throughout the newly built Chelsea Harbour. We

of the idea that the food, serving staff and installations or

were very successful and within 3 months I had 10 sellers going

street stalls at an event can be at the heart of the branding

out in all directions but the job was not cut out for a social 19 year

or messages that the client wants to convey. Its food PLUS,

old girl and I was therefore thrilled to have the idea of retailing the

if you will, our staff are living styling, our food is there to

first and “Original Jelloshots”. Basically alcoholic Jelloshots were

encapsulate the moment and the installations and street

classified a food stuff meaning that all the big 90 s raves and clubs

stalls are solid stages for the theatre of food. Here she

with no alcoholic licences could get away with selling Jello shots

divulges what makes Ravenous work, and what exactly is

as their only alcohol on site. One of our first contracts was Ministry

happening throughout the rest of 2014.

of Sound who were taking anything up to 5000 per week and very soon every rave and most clubs, bars and pubs throughout UK started to buy them in because they were so popular. We also set up operations in The Alps and Spain selling along The Costa Del Sol but before long there were 17 other Jello companies on our backs so I sold quickly and took a year out.

How did you set-up Ravenous?

After having my babies I went on to establish Ravenous in 2003 with Charlie Merrington; an exceptional Chef taught by his paternal grandma who owned a very successful catering company in 1950 s called Gay Gourmet! The premise of Ravenous being to offer something totally different and yet economical within the bland corporate events industry of the time. I had been very social for a long time and had many ideas for making food exciting and many connections throughout London so concept, strategy and client facing stuff came easily. Recently, Tim Morgan, an exceptional

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SUPPLIER FOCUS: RAVENOUS salesman has been bought in as a partner with us to deliver against our corporate sales and conference business strategies.

What’s Ravenous been up to lately?

Recently Sam Galsworthy and I are responsible for pulling together the showcase for 800 event organisers at Egg by incorporating our RAVENOUS PARTNERS - BEAU PRODUCTIONS AND HONEST GROUP.

People have called the event the “best

showcase in memory!” which really is something! Passionate about taste and aesthetics we specialise in bespoke catering for a broad range of clients, from Corporate to Private, from HighProfile to Intimate. Whether your chosen venue is to be at your home, your office, favourite meadow, your venue or ours, even a blank canvas site you can rely on us to come up with the solution to make sure your event is different, unforgettable and professionally catered. We’ve always tried to stay a step ahead of the catering industry; for example when in our first year we designed our Glass Tower for Siemens, our Walls of food for MTV Cannes and our Scaffolding Tunnel Buffet for GSP. Recently as a Smart&Balanced

‘Raw, Free-from and Alkali canapés’’ as Alkali food is huge right

Ltd brand we also set up The Canapé Boutique and The Shack to

now. For something a bit different and purely indulgent our Marie

name a few.

Antoinette theme promotes sumptuous bites researched from the reign of Louis XVI, our Burlesque bites are on a similar tangent but

What’s the Boutique and current themes?

a bit naughtier! Finally for the brave we have our Adventure Bites,

This Boutique is an interactive installation, a platform for your guests

delicacies for the fearless!

to browse the evenings’ canapé selection. It is the opportunity to draw your guests to your carefully selected food choices in true

What’s ‘The Shack’ and current themes?

high-end, west-end style. Our lovely Boutique “assistants” are on

‘The Shack’ came out of our interest in Street-Food and it’s

hand to educate and advise the browsing guests, creating the fuss

astonishing appeal to all the senses. There’s also a real focus on

that your food deserves. Each choice is beautifully labelled and

the distressed and in tune with that we have ‘The Shack’ which

the boutique setting will elevate and create aspiration and flair…

really is an installation like no other, made from reclaimed and

in the best possible way. Current Themes for The Boutique include

recycled goods designed to be an actual shack with smoking chimney and windows and a serving counter which can be placed anywhere in your venue that allows at least a 4meter counter top.

Along with our Blow Torch Canapés it manages to work beautifully on those long summer nights as an indoor BBQ or outdoor BBQ and can be styled as Beach Shack/ Santa s Food Grotto / Street Stall / Circus Stall. It really manages to do it all!

You mention an interest in Street-food, can you expand on that?

Its more than an interest, we are obsessed. We are working hard, eating as much as we can from as many stalls as possible to gain creative ideas but also to immerse ourselves in the ethos.

Our stalls are less “themed” and more authentic; with signage on sourcing of ingredients and why just as you would see in Borough Market or Glastonbury – we operate out of Camper Vans and

Market Stalls and our menus are based on the best - selling street ► PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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SUPPLIER FOCUS: RAVENOUS

foods. Our Street Food concept and delivery consists of the key

free to give us a call to discuss it on a more personal basis. Smart

elements of Installations, service, food presentation and great

Working Lunches incorporate health and nutrition principles such

tasting, appropriate but innovative food. Our ethos and approach

as alkaline eating, balanced food combining, super foods, synergy

to Street Food is to bring together a variety of perspectives with

mineral / vitamin design and antioxidants. They are perfect for

an emphasis on matters of provenance, alternative food production

conferences and working lunches because they really help keep

and consumption practices, Fairtrade, local and farm sourcing.

energy levels high and concentration up enabling you to get the

Key delivery goals for us are clear communications and signage,

best out of your delegates all day long. In this critical economic

cultural jamming, origin centricity and guest engagement.

environment when decisions taken can affect entire organisations can you afford NOT to consider your delegates food?

How important are your staff to you?

Enormously! Ravenous operates with a team of committed of

Tell us about this partnership with Jiant?

Staff who understand the meaning of “Service”, and maintain the

We recently partnered with Jiant venue finding services because of

spirit of occasion in all circumstances. They are an invaluable asset and understand our values. We are well known for creative, sophisticated and often theatrical staff costume. We have a large wardrobe and uniform collection which means that our floor-staff become living styling, adding value to any event.

Recently there’s been a focus on healthy living in mainstream media. How have you reacted to this?

Smart Working Lunches are our Unique Selling Point, these are the basis of our conference and shoot photography catering. All menus are designed by chefs working closely with nutritionists to ensure every dish meets our stringent standards. Clients may feel 64

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course ‘venue’ is the 1st step on the event ladder; Jiant manage a portfolio of quirky, elegant and diverse venues that we are able to cater within and can often broker us into new venues because of our unique services.

Thank you Ali. Finally do you have any prediction for the year ahead?

There is consumer preference for the healthy and the ethical, for fun and innovation and we represent all of these. Accentuation on bringing healthy options into the events catering industry also with an emphasis on provenance of foods and material and finally guest engagement thereby reinforcing brands and messages through ethical alignment

EVENTS FOR THE DIARY: CONFEX 2015

THE INSTITUTION JUST GOT BETTER

Show Director Liz Agostini says: “The exhibitor list is growing daily

Since 1983, International Confex has occupied an unrivalled

again be packed full of technology suppliers not to be missed,

position in the UK as the focal point for thousands of event

including Cvent, Lumi and Superevent, to name a few. “With the

buyers - professional and commercial conference and exhibition

technology theatre packed out during the 2014 show, it is sure

organisers, corporates, agencies and associations seeking

to be a popular theme again this year, particularly with the array

venue, destination and supplier inspiration.

of new devices and solutions available to event producers and

with representation from across the destination, hotel, venue and event services sectors to create a complete event experience.”

Technology and innovation is key to visitors and Confex will

planners,” says Agostini.

Highlights of the 2014 event included, over 300 exhibitors showcasing UK and International venues and destinations, and those essential event support service suppliers and the two keynote speeches from Kanya King MBE and Karren Brady CBE, who both spoke in front of packed out crowds of 200+ on each day of the show.

Following on from the success of this year’s event, Mash Media are looking forward to the 2015 event, which will take place on

Confex will continue to partner with the industry’s leading associations. Tailored partnerships are designed to give each association a platform to showcase their offering and the chance to bring dynamic content to the show floor. The newly merged EVCOM is one leading industry association looking at ramping up its participation in the 2015 show.

The Meetings Industry Association (mia) have also confirmed their partnership for the 2015 event. 2015 sees 25 years of the

the 18th & 19th of February at London Olympia, alongside The

mia and, to mark the silver anniversary, its first event of the year

Event Production Show, making it the largest buying forum for

will be the 25th Annual General Meeting which is to be held at

the events industry.

Confex. In addition the popular AIM Pavilion will be expanded and once again in a prominent position on the exhibition floor.

A host of exhibitors across the event buying spectrum have already signed up to exhibit at Olympia, London in February 2015.

For more information visit www.international-confex.com

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WHERE WE DRANK

Drank WHERE WE

master replicators of standardised formulas. He is an artist in suit and tie. Choose a base spirit. Answer a few questions. He will either guide you to the perfect drink or create an as-yet-unnamed classic on the spot. The bar’s kidney-shaped room is lined with handblown sculptures of red glass flames, accentuating the burgundy, dark wood and gold decor.

53 Park Lane W1, 020-7629 8888.

RIVOLI BAR – THE RITZ No London bar has undergone such a radical – and to the untrained eye, invisible – transformation in living memory as the Rivoli. This opalescent, gilded jewel box of a room has shed its draconian dress code. Jeans are acceptable. Jackets and ties are optional, as is champagne. The bar staff are now all under 30, white-jacketed and highly creative. The manhattan is made with the bar’s own solera-aged Woodford Reserve whiskey. Its

HAWKSMOOR

garnish is presented in an ice-filled treasure chest. The ramos gin fizz arrives in a frozen goose egg shell set in a spun sugar

69 COLEBROOKE ROW

nest atop a footed glass stand. These liquid fantasies are also

This tiny bar opened in Islington in mid-2009, and is overseen by

flawless classics, with all the magic the room deserves. Feeling

Tony Conigliaro, who is widely considered to be one of London’s

flush? Try one of their once-in-a-lifetime vintage cocktails (up to

top bartenders and cocktail experts. With just a handful of seats,

£350 for a presidente).

the understated, intimate space proves a fine environment in

150 Piccadilly W1, 020-7493 8181, theritzlondon.com

which to enjoy the pristine cocktails (peach and figleaf bellini, martinis made with ‘woodland bitters’, rhubarb gimlet), mixed with

NOLA

quiet ceremony.

At this new New Orleans-inspired bar, the top-selling cocktails

69 Colebrooke Row, N1 8AA

are the hurricane, the sazerac and – a personal favourite – the grasshopper, which was created a stone’s throw from the

DUKES BAR

Mississippi river at Tujague’s by the owner Philibert Guichet

I can picture Alistair Cooke preserved in one of the Dukes Bar’s

around 1919. Not every cocktail has to be intensely alcoholic and

forest green velvet corner chairs, a chilled martini on the table

balanced with bitters: the grasshopper is like a green and creamy

before him. It’s so well hidden – off St James’s Place, which is off

pudding in a coupette glass. The New Orleans Culinary and

St James’s Street – Dukes is practically a speakeasy. Here the

Cultural Preservation Society bestowed the Seal of the Sazerac

martinis are straight up frozen gin or vodka enlivened with dashes

on this bar, the first outside North America to receive the honour.

of bespoke vermouth and oil expertly wrung from generous peels

66-68 Rivington Street EC2, nola-london.com

of Amalfi lemon by white-jacketed bartenders, led by Alessandro Palazzi. A proper old London establishment, it is neither cheap (at

HAWKSMOOR

£16-£17 per drink) nor pretentious.

The oak-panelled basement bar in the Hawksmoor at Seven

Martinis from £17, 35 St James’s Place SW1, 020-7491 4840.

Dials in Covent Garden doubles as waiting area for this sprawling subterranean steakhouse. It is reminiscent of scores of old New

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THE BAR AT THE DORCHESTER

York steakhouse bars, although here – in addition to great old

Barman Giuliano Morandin may not have seen daylight in the

standards – you’ll find a new drink that should not be missed: the

past few decades. The Bar at The Dorchester is a wonderfully

ginger brew. This frosted mug of gin, ginger, citrus and Fuller’s

dark drinking hole with a separate entrance on the park side of

London Pride bitter – created by former Hawksmoor bartender

the hotel – weave past the Lamborghinis and Bugattis. Giuliano

“Shaky” Pete Jeary – is bound to become a classic.

is a throwback to an era before bartenders were expected to be

11 Langley St WC, 020-7420 9390.

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WHERE WE ATE

WHERE WE

Ate

sexy, postmodern design, jet-setting vibe and a direct line to the smart money. Watch as the chefs nimbly slice raw fish for topdrawer sushi and sashimi or check out the sizzling glories of the robata grill. Expect to pay handsomely for the pleasure of visiting this fabulous celebrity playground – but living the high life is all part of its appeal.

5 Raphael Street, London, SW7 1DL DABBOUS Dabbous is a gastronomic game-changer and the current embodiment of new-wave dining in the capital. In place of ostentatious, highfalutin antics comes a refreshing marriage of high-brow cooking with a chilled, of-the-moment vibe. Not surprisingly, this attracts a mixed clientele, from silver-haired financiers to camera-toting bloggers, all lapping up Michelinstarred Ollie Dabbous’ ‘truly innovative’ cooking. Esoteric seasonal ingredients, Nordic aesthetics and ‘wow’ presentation tempered with a heavy dose of restraint blend seamlessly in

THE SHARD

every meticulous plate.

39 Whitfield Street, London, W1T 2SF

ARBUTUS Cosmopolitan Arbutus is ‘streets ahead of the competition’, according to one fan (speaking for many), and has consolidated its status as one of the big cheeses in Soho – thanks to a ‘nearfaultless combination of style and service that doesn’t break the bank’. Peppery Dorset crab with guacamole, peanuts and Provençal figs get the vote, likewise a gentle dish of English asparagus with Caesar mayonnaise, ‘nutty’ quinoa pannacotta – although nothing can match the ‘mind-bendingly original’ squid and mackerel burger or the warm crispy pig’s head.

PÉTRUS 333 Tailor-made for ‘special dinners’, serious business and family outings, this Belgravia outpost of the Gordon Ramsay empire is a quietly successful all-rounder rather than a hyped-up headline act. ‘Superb high-end cooking’ is the draw, and protégé Sean Burbidge has the credentials to deliver aristocratic Michelinstarred food – from lobster and salmon ravioli with silky Champagne and chive velouté to roast duck breast, confit leg and granola, invigorated with spring onion and Szechuan-pepper jus.

020 3551 9855, 63-64 Frith Street, London, W1D 3JW

020 3551 9860, 1 Kinnerton Street, London, SW1X 8EA

THE SQUARE

AQUA SHARD 22

Phil Howard’s two-Michelin-starred Mayfair paragon is still

Sparkling, panoramic views of the capital are guaranteed to thrill

supremely consistent and ‘unspeakably good’: a rare achievement for a restaurant that’s been in the game for 23 years. First-timers should order the legendary crab lasagne with a cappuccino of shellfish, while repeat visitors can sit back safe in the knowledge that from the first amuse-bouche to the final petit-four, they’re in for an exquisite treat, backed by a huge, authoritative wine list.

at this sky-high proposition from the Hong Kong-based Aqua group – a suave venue custom-built for local business types and gastro-tourists, with its shades of grey and purple, flattering lights and Liberty-print banquettes. The kitchen also looks to England for inspiration and creates some truly ‘sublime’ dishes with contemporary accents. Poached veal tongue comes with

6-10 Bruton Street, London, W1J 6PU

wild asparagus, smoked beef shin and lentil dressing, lobster is

ZUMA

served with aubergine, punchy goats’ cheese, red pepper and

‘An absolute trendsetter for years’, the Chelsea mother ship of the

young garlic.

now-global Zuma brand is much more than a restaurant with its fizzing mix of world-class contemporary Japanese food, thrillingly

pointed up with fragrant lemon balm, and Rhug Estate lamb is

020 7768 3416, 31st & 33rd floors, The Shard, 31 St. Thomas Street, London, SE1 9SP PrestigeEventsGuide.com

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WHERE WE STAYED SHOREDITCH ROOMS

Stayed WHERE WE

BROWNS HOTEL

TOWN HALL HOTEL & APARTMENTS

Proudly perched at one of the most desirable addresses

Town Hall Hotel & Apartments are housed in Bethnal Green’s

in Mayfair since its Victorian heyday, Brown’s Hotel has

old council building: modern fixtures such as floor-to-

undergone a renovation at the hands of Olga Polizzi

ceiling glass have been added to the grand design of the

that’s blended fresh colours, mosaic floors, and antique

Edwardian building; the marble floors, high ceilings, stately

furnishings with the hotel’s historic wooden panelling, gilt

staircases remain in charge. Fine-dining lovers will thrill at

mirrors and stained glass. Its ageless good looks, combined

innovative eatery the Typing Room’s tasting menu, and you

with the jazzy glamour of the Donovan Bar and a moving,

won’t spot a magistrate anywhere

shaking guest list, have made it one of London’s must-stays.

ST JAMES HOTEL & CLUB THE AMPERSAND HOTEL

In the parkside heart of London’s clubland (of the cognac-

The Ampersand Hotel is the perfect place to rest museum-

sipping, rather than dance variety), the red and white

weary feet: its charms include a pretty tea salon with

Victorian façade of St James’s Hotel & Club hides the

excellent cakes, a basement restaurant with clever

grown-up glamour within. Newly revamped and restored,

cocktails, and big bedrooms with blissfully comfy beds.

the decor captures that quintessential Mayfair elegance

Birds, musical motifs, botanical sketches and feathery

and then some, with Murano chandeliers, a priceless

installations decorate halls and corridors; extra sparkle

collection of portraiture and the most snooze-worthy beds

comes courtesy of the young and smiley staff

you’ll ever sleep in

THE CRANLEY HOTEL

SHOREDITCH ROOMS

Sitting quietly on an attractive South Kensington side street,

Shoreditch Rooms at Shoreditch House is a converted

The Cranley Hotel in London is the perfect townhouse-

warehouse wonder in London’s gentrified East End. There’s

from-home. With its mahogany antiques, Regency-period

a pool on the roof, a bowling alley for private hire on the

palette and prettily embroidered bedheads, it’s an ideal

fourth floor and a Cowshed spa to boot. This easterly outpost

base for a spot of Anglo-centric shopping, sightseeing and

of Soho House members’ club has opened its doors for the

tea-taking. Plus it feels distant enough from central to afford

public to sneak in, party hard then crash out in comfort.

yourself a bit of headspace.

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20/20 ‘CONFERENCING’ SPEED NETWORKING THEME: CONFERENCING DATE: 16.1.14 HOST VENUE: DE VERE HOLBORN BARS www.deverevenues.co.uk/en/venues/holborn-bars/ SYNOPSIS: 20 corporate event buyers requiring conference venues and services, meeting 20 suppliers in the settings of the former Prudential building and it’s grand arches and interiors. An ideal setting for this themed event. Located in the heart of Holborn and London’s West End, and winner of COOLest venue for Small Meetings 2014

SUPPLIERS INCLUDED: : De Vere Venues, Halifax Hall, Warwick Conferences, Senate House, RIBA, LSO, Four Pillars, CEME, Leicestershire Promotions, Wyndham Grand, 15 Hatfields, One Wimpole Street, Emirates Stadium, Optix Structures, Elite Hotels, Demonwheelers, Congress Centre, Blitz, Waldorf Hilton, Swordfighting International THE 20 BUYERS INCLUDED: 3i, BT, The Kings Fund, Newsquest Specialist Media, Mazars, NYSE, Haymarket, Jam Events, NIG UK, The City UK, Heartwood Group, etc

20/20 ‘VENUES MEET AGENCIES-ONLY’ SPEED NETWORKING THEME: VENUES MEET AGENCIES-ONLY DATE: 30.1.14 HOST VENUE: FREEMASONS HALL www.richmondcaterers.com/, www.ugle.org.uk/freemasons-hall SYNOPSIS: 20 senior event agency event organisers speed networking with 20 charismatic venue, taking place in the masonic and majestic Freemasons Hall on London’s Covent Garden. Winner of the COOLest For AGM’s 2014. Managed exclusively by Richmond Caterers who also showcased an amazing food repetoire.

SUPPLIERS INCLUDED: Freemasons Hall, Indigo2, Eventim Apollo, Middle Temple Hall, Optix Structures, T Grass Roots,

Banks Sadler, DRP, Chew Events, Caxton Manor, Shoutaboutlondon, Jam Events, Kuoni Group, Blitz, Zing Events, Julius Baer, Direct Line, etc he Roof Gardens, The London Kitchen, Richmond Caterers, Lane End Conference Centre, Warwick Conferences, Farncombe Estate, Kingsway Hall, Hackney Venues, Imago, Venue 360, 15 Hatfields, Science Museum, Heythrop Park, Top Golf,, Vaultlondon.com, Megabooth, Kensington Close Hotel

THE 20 BUYERS INCLUDED: Grass Roots, Banks Sadler, DRP, Chew Events, Caxton Manor, Shoutaboutlondon, Jam Events, Kuoni Group, Blitz, Zing Events, Julius Baer, Direct Line, etc

20/20 ‘COOL VENUES SPEED NETWORKING THEME: COOL VENUES DATE: 27.2.14 HOST VENUE: DUTCH HALL http://limone.co/dutch-hall-event-venue/

SYNOPSIS: 20 qualified event organisers speed networking 20 venues that wear COOL as a badge, set in the surroundings of the 15th century Dutch Hall. Tucked behind Bishopsgate, it is the square mile’s best kept secret. Managed exclusively by Limone. Fabulous catering provided by Sands Caterers.

SUPPLIERS INCLUDED: Dutch Hall, The Roof Gardens, 40/30 at The Gherkin, Top Golf, St Pancras Renaissance, East Wintergarden, Center Parcs, Blenheim Palace, Senate House, The Grove, Concerto Group, The Deck at The National Theatre, Egg London, Altitude, Mint Leaf, London Zoo, Emirates Stadium, Ministry of Sound, Church House THE 20 BUYERS INCLUDED: BMW, Hermes Sourcap, Energy UK, Xclusive Touch, Hearst Magazines, Nestle, The Guardian, Exterion Media, Banks Sadler, etc

20/20 ‘TEAMBUILDING AND OUTDOOR EVENTS’ SPEED NETWORKING THEME: TEAMBUILDING AND OUTDOOR EVENTS DATE: 5.3.14 HOST VENUE: DE VERE DEVONPORT HOUSE www.deverevenues.co.uk/en/venues/devonport-house/ SYNOPSIS: 20 corporate event organisers speed networking with 20 teambuilding venues and suppliers.

In keeping with teambuilding and outdoor events, the setting was chosen to be Devonport House: another amazing venue from the De Vere venues portfolio, located in the heart of London’s Greenwich - a UNESCO World Heritage site.

SUPPLIERS INCLUDED: De Vere Devonport House, Center Parcs, Top Golf, Go Ape, Sundial, Blenheim Palace, Kia Oval, Silverstone, Swordfighting International, Demonwheelers, Mercedes Benz World, Bear Grylls Survival Academy, Conference Roehampton, Hedosr House, Zing Events, THE 20 BUYERS INCLUDED: Unilever, HSBC, L’Oreal, Jam Events, Crazy Cow Events, Eventwise, Hillgate Solutions, Chew Events, Shoutabout London, Smith & Williamson, Vocalink, BTS, etc

20/20 ‘VENUES FOR MEETINGS/TRAINING/SEMINARS’ SPEED NETWORKING THEME: VENUES FOR MEETINGS/TRAINING/SEMINARS DATE: 25.3.14 HOST VENUE: CENTRAL HALL WESTMINSTER www.c-h-w.com/venue/ SYNOPSIS: 20 corporate event organisers speed networking with 20 charismatic venue specializing in providing facilities for meetings/training/seminars. Hosted in the magnificent grade II listed Central Hall Westminster, located just off Parliament Square and facing Westminster Abbey. Also noted for having Europe’s largest self-supporting concrete dome ceiling.

SUPPLIERS INCLUDED: Central Hall Westminster, Halifax Hall/Conference With US, Warwick Conferences, Sundial, Lane

End Conference Centre, Missenden Abbey, 15 Hatfields, Imago, Park Crescent Conference Centre, Ashridge House, Aviator Hotel,.11 Cavendish Square, Congress Centre, Imperial College, College Court, One Wimpole Street, University of Sussex, De Vere Venues, Wellcome Collection

THE 20 BUYERS INCLUDED: BP, AOL, TBA PLC, Department For International Development, Crazy Cow Events, Eden Essential Events, Jam Events, Fisher Productions, Delion, Pearl Rock & Raven, Hillgate Solutions, Julia Charles Event Management, etc

20/20

speed networking the ultimate b2b forum

EVENT CALENDAR

Date

Theme

Host Venue

25th September 2014

Christmas Parties – SUPPLIER TABLES SOLD OUT -

Barbican

9th October 2014

Events Services – 5 SUPPLIER TABLES LEFT -

Wax Chandlers Hall

16th October 2014

Central London Venues – 3 SUPPLIER TABLES LEFT -

London Zoo

30th October 2014

Luxury Venues Around The World – 4 SUPPLIER TABLES LEFT -

Steam and Rye

6th November 2014

Unique Venues - SUPPLIER TABLES SOLD OUT -

Warner Bros. Studio

13th November 2014

Non-London Venues SUPPLIER TABLES SOLD OUT -

Vinopolis

22nd January 2015

Conferencing

Venue: tbc

5th February 2015

Suppliers meet Agents-only

Venue: tbc

26th February 2015

COOL Venues

Venue: tbc

26th March 2015

Meetings, Training and Seminar Venues

Venue: tbc

9th April 2015

Venues with 500+ Capacities

Venue: tbc

23rd April 2015

Corporate Dining & Caterers

Venue: tbc

14th May 2015

COOL Events

Venue: tbc

21st May 2015

Teambuilding & Outdoor Events

Venue: tbc

5th June 2015

East London vs West London

Venue: tbc

19th June 2015

Heritage and Quirky Venues

Venue: tbc

2nd July 2015

Parties and Events@Night

Venue: tbc

16th July 2015

Sporting Venues

Venue: tbc

100% REBOOKING STATISTIC AMONGST SUPPLIERS!.

98% BUYERS SATISFIED ON OUR SUPPLIER-MATCHMAKING!! (based on survey of 100 buyers attending 20/20 events over past two years) “Great event, wide choice of different suppliers at all 20/20 events I’ve attended. A really efficient use of my time. I’ve recommended it to the dozens of other event organisers and PA’s I know” - Liz Smith, Coca Cola “The quality of buyer at 20/20 Speed Networking event’s is better than at any event we’ve been to.”

- Mike Kershaw, MD of Concerto Group

TO REGISTER AS A BUYER, EMAIL ALLANAH@PRESTIGEEVENTSGUIDE.COM TO ENQUIRE ABOUT SUPPLIER TABLESTANDS OR A MEDIA PACK, EMAIL DAN@PRESTIGEEVENTSGUIDE.COM GENERAL ENQUIRIES, VISIT WWW.2020SPEEDNETWORKING.COM, OR CALL 01708 737393 OR EMAIL WES@PRESTIGEEVENTSGUIDE.COM

USEFUL WEBSITES USEFUL WEBSITES

USEFUL WEBSITES FOOD AND DRINK Caterers and Party Food www.eden-caters.co.uk www.zafferano.co.uk www.officediner.co.uk www.purplegrapecatering.co.uk www.foodshowltd.com www.liquidchefs.co.uk www.munchlunch.com General Food Retailers www.caleyco.com www.regionalfoodanddrink.co.uk www.freshfood.co.uk Meat and Charcuterie Specialists www.realmeatco.sageweb.co.uk www.bleikers.co.uk www.blackface.co.uk

www.trainline.co.uk www.orient-express.com www.eurostar.com

Wine, Champagne & Spirits www.bbr.com www.oddbins.com Cheese/Dairy Specialists www.paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk www.colstonbassettdairy.com Organics/Special Diets www.freshfood.co.uk www.somersetorganics.co.uk Beverage Specialists www.fortnumandmason.com Hampers/Gifts www.presentsofmind.co.uk www.chocolatestore.com www.fortnumandmason.com www.aquascutumgifts.com Deliveries/Takeaways www.deliverance.co.uk www.officediner.co.uk Chocolate and Cake Specialists www.chocolatestore.com www.theorigionalchocolatefountain. com www.jane-asher.co.uk

Event staffing www.rcpromo.co.uk Team building www.leapplc.com www.bluehat-teambuilding.co.uk www.www.sundialteamscapes.com www2.mercedes-benz.co.uk www.topgolf.com www.beargryllssurvivalacademy. com www.swordfightinginternational.com www.demonwheelers.co.uk

www.owen-brown.co.uk www.parnhamfunfairs.co.uk www.igloos.co.uk (luxury loos) www.merlin-fireworks.co.uk Entertainment www.megabooth.com www.krulive.com/krutalent www.tenorsunlimited.com www.partypianos.com www.urbansoulorchestra.co.uk www.zapmagic.com www.swordfightinginternational.com EVENT MANAGEMENT Creative Event Management www.leapplc.com www.shoutaboutlondon.com www.blitzeventsolutions.com www.optixevents.com www.tastour.com www.caxtonmanor.com Social Media www.smileysocialmedia.com Incentive Gifts www.montblanccorprategift.co.uk Venue Finders www.jpeventsltd.com www.shoutaboutlondon.com

FLOWERS www.designerflowersuk.com

Event Speakers www.londonspeakerbureau.com www.speakersforbuisness.com

TRANSPORT

122 82

Limousines www.hcdchauffeurdrive.com

Event Photography www.mattchungphoto.com www.hollywren.com

Rail

Badges, Wristbands, Lanyards

PrestigeEventsGuide.com PrestigeEventsGuide.com

Trophies www.awardefx.co.uk

HOSPITALITY

Outdoor Fish Specialists www.islandseafare.co.uk www.caleyco.com

www.identilam.com

Security www.redcarpetsecurity.com Printing www.c3imaging.com www.gprintsolutions.co.uk Published by MX4 108 Clydesdale Road Hornchurch, Essex, RM11 1AJ T:+44 (0)1708 737393 F:+44 (0)1708 737389 wes@prestigeeventsguide.com www.prestigeeventsguide.com Copyright of all editorial copy remains the sole property of Mx4 Ltd and may not be reproduced without the prior permission of Mx4 Ltd. All opinions expressed within this publication remain those opinions of the feature writer, and neither Prestige Events or Mx4 Ltd hold and liability or responsibility for those opinions,views expressed or photography supplied.