Plan It! Magazine Spring 2021 Edition

spring 2021

Caterers Design + Décor Desserts Entertainment Fashion Floral Giveaways Invitations Photographers Planners Transportation Trends Venues Videographers

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2021 CHECK OUT DETAILS ON PAGE 3

HEIRLOOM catering

& events

HEIRLOOM catering

& events

Heirloom Catering & Events Planning on having 35 or 300?

Tailoring the occasion from micro intimate events to expansive gatherings.

From boxed lunches to elegant special occasions.

Let us create an inspired menu and event plan that is uniquely yours.

We now offer a stunning atrium open-air tent from April - October on our fountain view terrace.

Contact us for a personalized tour of our spaces and to meet our event team!

Call Stephanie Brovenick for questions or to schedule your tour: 248-661-5700 - 133

5725 WALNUT LAKE ROAD, WEST BLOOMFIELD MI 48323 | TEMPLE-ISRAEL.ORG/CATERER

table of contents 3 The Event Show 2021: New Location

The Official Start to

7 Any Event - The Invitation

14 Power of Positivity: What Has 2020 Taught Us? 15 Catering Made Better 19 Event Spotlight: A Michigan Wedding in November 22 Check Out Our Advertisers

Brian Weitzel Photography

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Sunday, August 17, 2003 was the date of our first Event Planning EXPO. After a year of creating, discussing, planning, selling and marketing – we were set to embark on a “first” for the social event planning community in Metro Detroit. We were thrilled to gather local event industry leaders and experts under one roof for an entire day – ready to meet prospective clients planning milestone events. Nothing could have prepared us for the BLACKOUT of 2003. As the heat index climbed – power surged and disrupted millions in the Northeast, including eight states and Canada. Guess what? Most of the power in our area was not restored until the end of the weekend. Locals fled the heat – perfect timing for a weekend getaway before the start of school.

OUR EXPO WAS SUNDAY... The show must go on!

Generators were sent to Sheraton Oaks Novi, our EXPO site. Power was restored! We had lights, we had electricity, and we had the lingering chlorine smell from the lobby pool, a result of the weekend’s high humidity and lack of power. Conditions were not perfect. Our vendors rallied. Load in happened as planned. There was no FACEBOOK. There was no way to reach people and tell them that the hotel was open, and the show was still ON. The doors opened AND PEOPLE CAME! Over 200 families attended the show.

Fast forward 18 years...

The Event Planning EXPO, now referred to as The Event Show, has become an annual event for vendors and attendees alike. This year, the Event Show will be held on October 10, 2021 at the Orchard Mall of West Bloomfield (11 AM to 3 PM). The show has grown to accommodate over 1000 attendees. Experts will be on-site, ready to inspire families and businesses planning events! No matter the occasion, the exhibitors will walk you through the entire event planning process, sharing ideas on WHAT’S NEW, CURRENT, and ON TREND. All aspects of planning local events will be represented: the finest venues, decorators, floral designers, photographers, linens, décor, rentals, catering, fun food, invitation and souvenir specialists, interactive entertainment and so much more. Over 50 vendors ready to meet you face-to-face.

See for yourself how others have made the planning process for their events easy. To sweeten the pot, our vendors will be offering discounts and Event Show incentives for those that attend – ONLY!

ONE DAY ONLY : SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2021 FROM 11 AM - 3 PM AT THE ORCHARD MALL OF WEST BLOOMFIELD

6445 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Twp

It’s free to attend - register here: www.theeventshow-theorchardmall.eventbrite.com 3

A Letter from Star Trax It has been a long, strange year for everyone; event planners, caterers, rental agencies, photographers, venue operators, floral designers… the list goes on.

We were all left to navigate the most unusual circumstances imaginable. A year with limited social gatherings has put our industry to the test.

sent invitations with meeting times to my team. Daily, we “met” and shared

Contributors

updates on our clients’ postponements and cancellations. We took all of our

Publisher Star Trax Events

On March 15, 2020, I sent my staff home. I created a Zoom account and

clients’ calls and calmly assured them that if cancelling were the only option, their deposit would be returned. We spent countless hours over several months working on date changes – postponement after postponement. Our hands were tied but we continued to be present.

President Geoff Kretchmer Creative Director Becca Schlussel Graphic Designer Michael Hnatiuk Photographers Brett Mountain Photography

Slowly, as the sun appeared in 2020, some of our clients were eager to gather, safely – and we were ready to get to work. Many successful events were produced by our staff – and we learned a lot about our industry and about ourselves. We can now say, “it would be our pleasure” to an event in Michigan, outdoors in November!

Brian Weitzel Photography DC Events & Design Heirloom Catering & Events Jean Smith Photography Cover photo provided by DC Events & Design Sarah and Shane Klein Wedding

Many party “must haves” have been re-invented. Some were created out of that have successfully weathered the storm have had the time to rebrand

Star Trax Team

and revise their product and service. We are ready to take on whatever is

President Geoff Kretchmer

thrown our way.

Partner Brian Siegel

necessity and others have made us wiser, stronger and better. The professionals

We have phrases that adorn the walls of our office that continually lift our spirits. These wordplays remind us that the service we provide our customers is what they take with them when the party is over.

Vice President Harris Van Cleef Senior Event Director Shannon McConnell Event Manager Danielle Hannah Special Event Manager Jen Ajlouny Production Director Jimmy Lees Production Coordinator Ken Busch Production Technician Alex Radatz Marketing Director Becca Schlussel Marketing Specialist Ned Specktor Graphic Designer Michael Hnatiuk Office Manager Loren Stone Controller Cindy Timoff Accountant Amy Dunlap VP Valet Parking Todd Duggins

B.E.N. (Be Extra Nice) W.I.T. (Whatever It Takes) P.O.P. (Power of Positivity) P.A.L.M. (Provide a Little More)

Valet Director Zach Neistein Valet Director Matt Fekin Valet/Activity Coordinator Jacquelyn Dorris Maintenance Director Brian Cafmeyer

Our staff will continue to be here with you every step of the way. If you have an event to plan, we are eager to impress you at every turn.

Geoff Kretchmer President, Star Trax Events

startrax.com / 248.263.6300 / info@startrax.com 2560 Wolcott / Ferndale, MI 48220

Planning an event at a venue with no kitchen – NO PROBLEM! Meet Kristin Brochert and her event coordination team from Trailer Events (TE). Kristin’s business filled a major void in the Metro Detroit event world. Mobile Kitchens were not only needed for restoration projects but were a welcomed addition into the private event space. Now, you can literally have a full-service food and beverage event anywhere!

Outdoor event, NO PROBLEM!! You cannot imagine how popular their bathroom trailer has become. We were fascinated by the beauty and functionality of these units. With separate entrances for men and women, the restrooms have private stalls, stainless trim mirrored

vanities, hand sinks with warm water, LED lighting, and ventilation complete with heating and cooling systems in place. The need for mobile bathroom solutions has been solved.

You hopefully have seen Trailer Events’ handiwork at the most successful tailgates around town. When your business or family is looking to create the ultimate experience at your

favorite sporting event – one call and they will not only have a parking lot reserved by the

appropriate stadium, but also a fully outfitted state-of-the-art tailgating trailer. These units are designed and equipped with a stainless-steel refrigerator, microwave, gas grill, generator,

and a private restroom. The trailers also include a HDTV monitor with Bluetooth capabilities.

When you arrive, the tent, tables, chairs, beverage coolers, and disposables will all be in

place and ready to go. Need a caterer, that is easy too. Trailer Events is a one stop shop – GO TEAM!

Kristin and her knowledgeable staff have taken the stumbling blocks out of hosting events.

Their mobile kitchens, specialty trailers, and executive restroom trailers can be used for any event, whether it’s a sophisticated corporate gathering or a backyard BBQ. Your search ends here.

TE is not only the leader in Metro Detroit for every high-end event trailer, but it has also

morphed into a full-service event coordination and design firm – handling all aspects of event planning. As the needs of their clients grew so did their arsenal of rentals. From catering

supplies and linens to tents and functional furniture (couches and chairs, coffee tables and more), they have everything you need to transform any space.

Trailer Events is fun to work with and is passionate about customer service and client

satisfaction. No matter the size or location – Kristin and her team can handle everything.

1470 Souter Drive • Troy, MI 48083 • (855) 388-8300 • trailerevents.com 6

THE OFFICIAL START TO ANY PARTY...

the INVITATION the

sun is starting to shine, spring is upon us - concern over COVID-19 may have caused you to cancel your special

celebration. Many party planners had to make the difficult decision to postpone. Fortunately, the time we were given to improvise has allowed us to shift our creativity, find the right words and accommodate today’s climate. Communication is key and all typical invitation etiquette has pretty much gone out the window. Save the dates, invitations and inserts need to be worded correctly - these printed pieces allow you to define the details while emphasizing safety.

RE-SAVE the DATE

For those events that have been placed on hold, many are mailing printed postponement notifications.

try these:

• Love is infectious, but so is the Coronavirus • Same Couple, Same Place, New Date • UNSAVE the Date

RE-THINK the RSVP

When it comes to responding – there are two great choices. First, the traditional response card with an added line for guests to add their email address. Second, an online email response (reply by sending an email to: beckyandben@yahoo.com). Both ways allow you to capture the email addresses of all those that you invite.

This now becomes an easier way to correspond moving forward. You may want to send guests an update, share your safety plans or just let them know you are excited to see them on the big day. Pandemic or not, the addition of the email is here to stay!

7

RE-PRIORITIZE for SAFETY With new priorities, we must adapt to a new reality.

This pandemic has been a wake-up call about the fragility of life and what matters most. The ceremony or religious aspect can be easily viewed, live streamed, by hundreds safely. Virtual events are not just an emergency contingency plan anymore - they are the real deal. Stationers can help with creative wording here too.

• While we wish you could be celebrating with us in person, we hope that you can join us virtually.

• We are going virtual… Join us for a “drive-by” celebration.

In addition, many families are mailing invitations for their virtual events and sending a separate reception card to follow later - when it is safer to celebrate, in person.

RE-CAP We are all in this together. Do not allow the invitation process to be stressful during unprecedented times. Your stationer will make the process just as fun and much easier than if you were attempting to manage it alone. Do not delay, start your design process now. Your celebration WILL happen – it just may look a little different. Communication is key, the invite will help spell out all the details. No one knows the timeline of this pandemic. We do believe that the way we invite guests for events, big or small, will be reinvented and redefined for the better.

contributor:

Franci Hirsch, Owner of The Paper Press, West Bloomfield, MI www.thepaperpress.net

Great Lakes

Culinary Center

Special Events Venue & Offsite Catering Services

24101 West 9 Mile Rd. Southfield mi, 48033 (248) 286-3100 | Glculinarycenter.com

t e G s ’ t e L party thisrted! sta

Brett Mountain Photography

No matter the type of event, Star Trax approaches each party as a blank canvas – an opportunity to wow you with innovative ideas. Your budget is important to us, we always stay true to your vision within your price point. We value communication and want to be your partner, guide and friend from the first creative brainstorm to the very last thank you note.

the party starts here!

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Justin Munter Photography

DC Events & Design

Kristiana Rose Photography

Brett Mountain Photography

Abby Rose Photo

Brett Mountain Photography

Brett Mountain Photography

Entertainment: MC, DJ, and Dancers / Full Service Event Planning / Valet Parking Interactive Activities / Event Production: AV, Lighting, Staging & Furniture / Graphic Design The Event Show / Plan It! Magazine / Pre-Teen Dance Program

get in touch with us!

2560 Wolcott / Ferndale, MI 48220 / startrax.com / 248.263.6300 / info@startrax.com 12

PARTY RENTALS FOR ANY OCCASION

Our huge inventory includes: arcade games, pinball machines, driving simulators, jukeboxes, pool tables, air hockey, dart boards, redemption games, and more!

You throw the party and we deliver the fun! GAME ON! 2626 Elliot Dr. Suite A, Troy, MI 48083 Ask about having a party at our space!

248.583.1000 • alpha-amusements.com

of

What has

To roll with the punches! We can now say we can adapt and innovate regardless of what is thrown our way. Our great relationships with vendors in our local industry have allowed us to continue providing stellar events for our clients.

That every milestone is worth celebrating. No matter the occasion or time of year, we will no longer take opportunities for granted to gather and celebrate.

Quality over Quantity – we have helped our clients redefine what is most important. If your celebration cannot be big – it can be BOLD!

Supporting local businesses for products and services is vital to each of our communities. If we do

not continue to support local merchants when they need us most, they will not be there for us in the future.

Whenever possible, we are committed to keeping it local.

How to solve ZOOM fatigue and host incredible virtual events. Computer generated events can be just as much fun as being in person. It just takes ingenuity, and anything is possible.

Some things may last forever! Every vendor must be flexible and accommodating. We now prioritize differently. We have become hyper focused on guest safety and hygiene. These updates will better our industry.

Being kind serves us well. We have been transparent, fair, ethical and honest every day of this

pandemic. Kindness has earned our clients trust and respect, creating opportunities for referrals and growth.

Our staff of over 350 valet parkers are incredible at providing large quantity deliveries. This has been great for holiday gifts, treats for virtual events, company swag and more.

You can have an outdoor event in November in Michigan – We have always been YES people – but the answer to this lesson is YES! Just make sure to reserve the perfect tent and heaters early.

14

g in r e t Ca made

easy better!

Building your own nacho bars, donut walls and chocolate fountains were all considered creative and trendy going into 2020. Then the pandemic hit and we turned in our little black dresses for pajama pants – our tenderloin bites for banana breads. Many of us embraced our time at home and became aficionados of the air fryer and instant pot – while others relied on microwaved meals and DoorDash.

We are now anxiously awaiting an invite to something other than a zoom function. Catering professionals have had a year to upgrade and infuse their offerings – Check out what is on the menu for 2021.

While we continue to cope with the crisis – we will still expect food that offers comfort… of course with a healthier spin.

Pizza (with cauliflower or chickpea crust), tacos with the finest ingredients, mac and cheese (warm, gooey and vegan), black bean burgers and sweet potato fries.

We all love our coffee and will continue to do so. Expect functions with the finest coffee, flavorings and creams to satisfy every palate, prepared by baristas. The coffee kick will continue to pop up in craft cocktails (cold brew and spiced cocoa martinis) and dessert (coffee ice cream, mocha truffles and cappuccino mousse!).

Many have embraced a plant-based diet during the shutdown. Fresh vegetables and protein alternatives are popping up at every popular establishment and on all the best caterers list of favorites. These hearty and healthy options go far beyond “rabbit food.” Lentil soup and vegan chili, creative quinoa bowls, crunchy bruschetta and avocado toast.

Meatless Monday has now expanded to other days of the week!

Developing creative ways to serve food will be our industry’s biggest challenge – and we are up for it! For now, we will temporarily return to plated meals. Traditional self-service buffets will be transformed into fun, themed, chef-attended experience stations serving individual prepared plates—grab and go style. You can elevate the experience with vertical foods or rent a conveyor belt that can feature beautiful small plates for guests to grab on their own. It is our industry’s time to get creative with both packaging and presentation.

Timing is everything. The professionals have reported that clients are asking for guests to be served earlier. Eating late seems to be a thing of the past – and those following an intermittent fasting lifestyle will sure be appreciative.

Healthier choices, plant based/vegan offerings and fine coffee – all before 9 PM. Did 2020 change our eating patterns for good or will we slide back into our old tendencies? Stay tuned…

15

We asked the pros:

Current trends we are taking part in are micro appetizers that are self-contained and COVIDfriendly. Our current situation really pushes us to be creative, to think outside the box to prepare and execute food differently. It is certainly not easy to prepare fried food with integrity these days. Backyards and atypical outdoor spaces have been reimagined for events – I envision that moving through the spring and summer, this will stay true. We will continue to cover and serve our menus creatively. Certainly, massive amounts of food spread across tables for all to see will be a thing of the past for quite some time. We will continue to evolve, offering our clients the finest ingredients in the safest manner possible.

Carole Wendling

Heirloom Catering & Events

Heirloom Catering & Events / temple-israel.org/caterer

· Family-style and buffet dinners to take on a new creative concept, with more chef-attended stations · Food presentations will be more mindful instead of themed · Food offerings seem to be going in a more heart healthy direction · This current climate has forced us to adapt and develop new, technology focused events. · We predict continued use of technological services such as: food orders placed and purchased in advance, then picked up from sanitized, temperature-controlled food lockers. · For our corporate clients, we see hybrid live and in-person events becoming a long-lasting trend so that clients can reach a wider audience.

Bonnie Peck

Jean Smith Photography

Forte Belanger / fortebelanger.com

Our culinary team has added enhancements to our menus that will offer a greater variety of selections while adding an element of safety without compromising quality or the overall experience. Something different doesn’t mean less fun! We believe that if we embrace the unavoidable changes and remain creative and innovative during this time, we will come out of this better than ever.

Paul Hess

Epoch Hospitality Group, Diamond Center at the Suburban Collection Showplace diamondbanquetcenter.com

Complacency is a threat – is one of our core values! This mindset has given us the

Heirloom Catering & Events

tools to pivot and stay relevant this past year. We have added igloo dining onsite, private chef experiences and custom takeout on “Foodie Fridays.” Our goal for private events has been to elevate every dimension into an intimate curated experience. Our expanded bar program now offers handcrafted cocktails with a personal touch. We want your guests to enjoy the culinary adventure. Let us greet your guests with champagne upon arrival, wow them with personal bites and small plates, guide them through a chef-attended, touchless buffet and even provide hot chocolate bombs as gifts when they leave. Always on trend and relevant – executed in the safest way possible.

Taylor Brown

Great Lakes Culinary Center / glculinarycenter.com Heirloom Catering & Events

An Outdoor Fall Wedding Like everyone, COVID caused some disruptions for our family in 2020 - and none greater than the CA venue canceling plans for our son’s wedding! While we were thrilled that the wedding couple asked if they could be married at our house in Michigan, we knew right away that we needed help from our friends at Star Trax. As they have done on numerous occasions, Harris and Jen and their team instantly jumped in.

This was not an easy assignment as COVID considerations came into play with nearly every decision. They transformed our front yard into a wedding chapel and our back yard into a garden palace for the reception. Along the way, they made changes and adapted things to 1) make sure all our guests were safe and able to socially distance easily while 2) having the time of their lives. Harris and Jen met with the bridal couple early on to get their thoughts and desires and instantly reduced their stress level and allowed them to have fun with the experience. We appreciated the personal touch from Jen and Harris. They were proactive and offered many great ideas.

Michigan Fall outdoor weddings are always a challenge given the weather. The team at Star Trax had contingency plans in case of inclement weather and even brought in 30 more heaters for the reception when the temperature dropped just before the wedding. The wedding reception was seamless a little chilly - no rain - and the bridal couple and our guests ate, drank, and danced the night away with Star Trax’s MC Andre leading the way.

After the wedding, we heard from many friends that it was their favorite wedding/reception ever. The word most folks mentioned was “magical” - and we owe it all to the magicians at Star Trax!

Photography by DC Events and Design Star Trax Events / Killer Creations / Jeffrey Floral Architecture Pruett Custom Events / Luxe Event Linen / Event Theory Event Source / Fabulous Events / Love Butter Cream Designs by Debbie LeClaire / Trailer Events / The Red Coat Ladies John Arnold Music / PM1 / Band Ayd Events Group / Forte Belanger

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We specialize in boutique bartending, a high-end, all-inclusive service for: Private Events Cocktail Parties Corporate Events Corporate Happy Hours Weddings

Private Dinner Parties Pop-up Events Food & Beverage Tastings Fundraiser Events

Book your private bartender with us today.

248-703 - 8865 WWW.SIDECARBARTENDING.COM

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46100 GRAND RIVER AVE. NOVI, MI . 248-348-5600 WWW.DIAMONDBANQUETCENTER.COM

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