Plan It! Magazine Spring 2017 Edition

spring 2017

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

Create an unforgettable event -minus the stress

Elegant to Casual Exceeding your expectation at every step

Events at Their Best

Private bar service

Cuisine from simple to gourmet • Vaad certified providers available From fun facilitators, designer center pieces, DJ’s, videography - we do it all

Winter to Summer Experienced, knowledgeable, ready to serve

Exclusive access to 10 acres of unparalleled fun!

Formula Go Karts • Kiddie Go Kart Track • New Laser Tag System Mini-Bowling • Trampoline Center • Miniature Golf Climbing Walls • Euro-Bungy Jump • Event Rooms Incredible Arcade Center • Simulation Spaceship Luxury Event Pavillion • 4 Acres of Picnic Area • Restaurant & Bar An impeccably clean, first class facility

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248.735.1050

45799 Grand River in Novi

TABLE OF CONTENTS 5-6

Trending 2.0

by Jen Ajlouny

14

Choosing the Perfect Venue

by Becca Schlussel

19-20

Experts Dish Local Professionals

PUBLISHER Star Trax Events PRESIDENT Geoff Kretchmer CREATIVE DIRECTOR Becca Schlussel GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michael Hnatiuk

PHOTOGRAPHERS Abby Rose Brett Mountain Brian Masserman Jay Dreifus Justin Munter Mike Iezzi

WANT TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT PLAN IT! MAGAZINE? becca@startrax.com

www.planitmagazine.com

STAR TRAX EVENTS 1200 Woodward Heights Ferndale, MI 48220 www.startrax.com 248.263.6300

Brett Mountain Photography

Cover photo provided by Abby Rose Photo

A Letter from the President Graditude. We are grateful to the wonderful vendors and industry professionals that have trusted us to produce a magazine that will highlight their businesses, thus giving them an opportunity to expand their customer base. I am also grateful for the people at Star Trax who work so hard every day, producing Plan It!, an invaluable resource of which I am extremely proud.

This party planning guide has taken on a life of its own. Our social event clients ask for referrals and contacts on a daily basis. With this guide in hand, we are able to sit down with a pen and circle advertisers and fold page corners. Nothing is better for a prospective client than meeting with planners who have stacks of Plan It!, ready to help their customer! Our online readership has quadrupled since its inception and we can’t keep the magazines on the rack. There was a real need in our local area for this resource, and we are grateful and proud to be the ones to plan, produce and market Plan It! Magazine, year round!

The content is just as important as our collection of quality advertisers. We have surveyed many event professionals, and have created a comprehensive list of tips for the novice planner. We are proud that each edition of Plan it! includes modern TRENDS. For those of you planning events annually – we hope this magazine will help you find something current and cool to include in your next occasion. Routinely, we are asked for help choosing a venue. This edition houses an overview on choosing the right place to host your event.

Save the Date! Our 16th Annual Event Show will take place on Sunday, September 24, 2017 at the West Bloomfield JCC. Seventy vendors, all under one roof, are waiting to meet you, face to face! It’s FREE to attend.

Please register by visiting: www.theeventshowfall2017.eventbrite.com Happy Planning! If you need help – we are just a phone call away!

Geoff Kretchmer President Star Trax Events

Getting ready to plan a

Mitzvah - Communion - Wedding - Corporate Event?

Join us! Free and open to the public!

Sunday, September 24, 2017 11 AM - 3 PM West Bloomfield JCC (6600 West Maple Road)

Hundreds of creative ideas from leaders in the event industry!

Event Planners - Decor and Design Event Venues - Entertainment & Activities Catering - Photographers - Videographers and so much more!

Register to attend : theeventshowfall2017.eventbrite.com Questions? becca@startrax.com

powered by

1200 Woodward Heights, Ferndale, MI 48220 startrax.com / 248.263.6300 / info@startrax.com

$100 OFF YOUR NEXT EVENT OF $3000 or more I-275 @ 7 Mile Rd. on Victor Pkwy. • 734.452.4600

VISIT WWW.DAVEANDBUSTERS.COM/SPECIALEVENTS

Kosher STYLE Menu Options Available

Brett Mountain Photography

Justin Munter Photography

Brett Mountain Photography

Abby Rose Photo

Abby Rose Photo

Masserman Photography

2.0

Brett Mountain Photography

Trending

by Jen Ajlouny Event Manager, Star Trax Events

Every event connoisseur is on the hunt for the next “Hot” Trend!

We’ve been watching and here’s what we have seen so far:

DESIGN : FLORAL, DÉCOR AND SO MUCH MORE! Long gone are the days of letting the venue define your event! This year has been all about creating the right space. 2017 has pushed the design limits to places we never thought possible. Live floral walls, custom built furniture & tiered staging are some of the most popular techniques used to create the perfect atmosphere.

We have seen a huge shift in event décor this year. The next big thing – 3D Design!

Events are moving away from foam core and vinyl décor and towards creating a 3D experience; huge photo backdrops, locker scenes, elevated DJ booths, casual vignettes & custom draping to fit the theme are just the beginning.

FOOD : EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE There has been a major shift in food service. The norm for many years has been plated or buffet for your guests; not anymore! “Build your own” is on trend; build your own salads, potatoes, waffles, omelets, burgers & taco bars. We can’t get enough of popcorn medleys, s’mores and creative ice cream stations.

Pass everything! Encourage your guests to get out of their seats and party! Small plates, cones and verrines with mini cutlery are all great ways to tantalize taste buds while offering guests a wider variety of menu options to sample.

ENTERTAINMENT This is an area where you don’t want to take chances. Entertainers should not be hidden behind a table. The best talent is out on the floor and engaging your guests. If your budget allows, party motivators in addition to the headliner are an incredible way to add flare to the focal point of the party – the dance floor. Live musicians mix well with mobile entertainment teams; horns, bongos and strings add energy to the mix.

Interactive games and activities are not just for kids. The best parties offer a throwback for adults too. Foosball, Pop-A-Shot, Plunk-It and custom vinyl souvenirs are all great ways to make your event memorable.

6

Specializing in fresh mini donuts onsite Indoor or outdoor events Specialty mini donut platters delivered

Delicious, Unique and Distinctive! www.DetroitMiniDonut.com (313) 528-6000

OPEN-AIR PHOTO BOOTHS - GIF ANIMATION BOOTH - ROAMING PHOTOGRAPHER - SOCIAL MEDIA CAST GREEN SCREEN - CUSTOM BACKDROP - DIGITAL PROPS - PERSONALIZATION - SNAPCHAT FILTERS

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OF NOVI

Where casual meets elegance and memories are made

Envelope Addressing, Invitations, Placecards & More!

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Email: dana@writestuffprinting.com | www.writestuffprinting.com 2121730

THE LINKS

The Write Stuff!

The Best in Service, Price and Quality for Over 20 Years!

Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, Weddings, Golf Outings, Parties and Banquets Call Sara, your event professional, for more information.

(248) 380-9595 50395 W 10 Mile Road Novi, MI 48374

www.LinksOfNovi.com

14450 W 10 Mile Rd. Oak Park, Michigan 48237

(248) 813-7800 www.annabelscatering.com

Bar Mitzvah & Bat Mitzvah ceremonies should be personalized, meaningful experiences that perpetuate the Jewish Tradition and create lasting memories for your teen and your family.

Photography by Brett Mountain

RABBI JASON MILLER Private Bar/Bat Mitzvah Officiation 248.535.7090 | rabbijam@gmail.com

Abby Rose Photo

the greatest interactive entertainers in the country.

Is it a big statement? Yes. And we are prepared to back it up!

The fun starts here. Star Trax MCs, DJs and Dancers are unlike any other. These amazing entertainers care about every detail of your event and bring the magic to every moment. We provide exceptional experiences that you and your guests will remember forever.

the little things make a big difference.

Interactive activities of every shape and size.

It is all about the fun – and we have plenty of it. With over 75 different activity choices, we are chock-full of extra fun. Fully staffed and managed, we are always ready to go. It’s not all fun and games… oh wait, yes it is.

Our arsenal includes multiple photo products, interactive takeaways, games, body art, custom clothing, crafts, entertainment and so much more.

CREATING THE MAGIC ONE EVENT AT A TIME

Brett Mountain Photography

Abby Rose Photo

for us, behind the scenes is front and center.

Star Trax has a production team that handles all the bells and whistles that we provide at events. Team Production is a well-oiled machine that manages our 7000 square foot warehouse and every product that we offer to our clients. The unseen backbone of our business, this amazing team can accomplish anything – be it audio, video, lighting, staging or anything generally complicated – they make it happen every day. MacGyver has nothing on these guys!

a private valet experience.

can we hold your hand?

leave your key fob in the car.

we’re with you every step of the way.

Star Trax prides itself on unmatched customer service and satisfaction. With a staff of over 150 valet parkers, we have the ability to handle nearly any size valet job with ease. Forgot your phone in your car - no problem.

Need help unloading - happy to get it for you. Do you require a little extra assistance - just let us know. Fully bonded and insured, a Star Trax valet experience is quite simply – awesome.

The Advisory Team is a consulting service available to Star Trax clients designed to assist in the planning, production and management of their special event.

Like any other complex project, creating a great event requires leadership and experience and no other event consulting company has better people or more exposure to events.

248.263.6300 / www.startrax.com / info@startrax.com

The perfect location for your next event!

Whether you’re hosting ✦ A wedding

O

ur elegant banquet hall, comfortable spaces for family gatherings, and meeting rooms of all sizes allow you to find exactly what you need.

✦ Corporate meetings ✦ Bar or bat mitzvah celebrations ✦ Birthday parties ✦ A private dinner or luncheon

Options include: portable dance floor, tables and chairs, linens, audio/video needs, stage and more!

To book your next event at the Jewish Community Center, please contact Dan Stratford:

dstratford@jccdet.org 248.432.5536

Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit D. Dan & Betty Kahn Building Eugene & Marcia Applebaum Jewish Community Campus 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322 • jccdet.org

BAR/BAT MITZVAH PARTIES THAT ROCK!

UNIQUE EVENT SPACE FOR PARTIES OF ALL SIZES!

45300 Mound Road Shelby Township, MI 48317

joedumarsfieldhouse.com

(586) 731-3080

Brett Mountain Photography

Choosing the Right Venue by becca schlussel star trax events

Hotel ballrooms to a theatrical sound stage and everything in between ...

The most important part of planning an event is choosing where to have it!

There are so many important factors that come into play when finding just the right spot. Truly though, it all comes down to how many people you are hosting, your budget and what you love.

Full service venues are available for those looking for a one stop shop. On site catering, tables and chairs and valet parking round out this option.

For planners with an eye for design – Mismatched furniture and seating, unique food offerings and an unconventional layout can be seen when utilizing a warehouse, loft, night club or sporting arena.

Make sure you choose the right size venue for the right size crowd. A site that is way too big will feel lifeless and lack warmth and intimacy. If the site you have your heart set on is too small for your crowd – skip it. Guests want to mingle and access all that is offered easily. Save the smaller spot you love for another event down the road!

When planning a party, food and beverage is usually your biggest ticket item. Make sure to find out all fees associated with the space you love. Is there a facility rental charge? Is there a price minimum guarantee? What is included (seating, AV, dance floor, bartenders, valet parking) and what is additional? Asking the right questions will help you compare one site to another. Having all the answers will also help you budget accordingly.

Suggestions can be easily made by professionals to guide you down this tricky path. Working with an event advisor or planner can take the guesswork out of choosing the right site. They will already have all the logistics, pricing and capacity information at their fingertips. Planning events is fun – ENJOY! Abby Rose Photo

Abby Rose Photo

Mike Iezzi Photography

14

bar & bat mitzvahs

banquets parties celebrations weddings

call

Courtney Kubit

248-348-5600 X227

COURTNEYT@SUBURBANSHOWPLACE.COM

AT THE

46100 gRAND rIVER aVE. nOVI, mi 48374 WWW.DIAMONDBANQUETCENTER.COM

Photos by Associates in Photography

Do your MITZVAH PROJECT with Detroit Water Ice!

All profits benefit S.A.Y. Detroit Charities!

Detroit Water Ice is taking the dessert experience to a new level Include this one-of-kind dessert treat at your Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Wedding, or Corporate Special Event

Contact us for info on how to have this at your social or corporate celebration!

Mention you found us in plan it! magazine

Looking for a SPECIAL way to help others for your MITZVAH PROJECT? Contact Ruth at mitzvah@detroitwaterice.com today to plan the ultimate mitzvah experience. www.detroitwaterice.com

Private & Group Lessons available Ballroom, Hip-Hop

4,000 Square Feet Now Available for Venue Rentals for: • Bridal showers • Engagement parties • Baby showers • Bar/Bat Mitzvahs • Birthday Parties • Bachelorette parties

A La Carte Banquet Facility

3065 Orchard Lake Rd, Keego Harbor, Mi 48320

Bring in Your Own Caterer, Bar & Décor.

248-738-9496 2152580

One Great Plymouth Location, Two Incredible Companies Event planners and indivuduals with discerning taste, a need for detail and amazing customer service choose us.

We welcome PlanIt Magazine Readers with a 10% off introduction to new customers to either company.

We don’t just rent:

We don’t just rent:

Stages, Mobile Stages, Audience Risers, VIP Seating, Stadium Flip Seating, Grandstands, Pool Covers, Elevated Platforms, Event Barricade, Concert Barricade, and ADA Ramps and Elevators

Tents, Tables, Chairs, Ice Cream Carts, Inflatables, Bouncers, Concessions, Dunk Tanks, Pipe & Drape, Portable Bleachers, Crowd Control, Heaters, Fans, Tent & Dance Floors

We Build Events.

734-420-1000 PerformanceStaging.com

We Build Events.

734-727-4757 PartyMaxMi.com

experts dish “When it comes to picking out your linens and décor, you can’t make a wrong choice. Go with your gut and choose what you love!”

Lyle Brous Fabulous Events

“Offering activities are great for the kids that aren’t dancers or may be a little shy - just keep them to a minimum as this will deter them from dancing all together and they will miss the fun! We suggest a photo product and an additional activity or two.”

Shannon McConnell Star Trax Events

“Even if you are a DIY client, it’s a great idea to hire a company for day of assistance. Let someone else handle the setup and teardown.

You deserve to enjoy every moment of the celebration.”

Courtney Kubit Diamond Center & Hyatt Place at the Suburban Collection Showplace

Wear comfortable shoes! Nothing is worse than not being able to enjoy yourself at your own event.

Andrea Solomon Event Planner “Offering to get drinks or plates of food for the host of your event makes it less stressful when they are mingling with guests.”

Elaine Matthews High Velocity Sports

19

Determine what the guidelines are for postage BEFORE deciding on your invite. Oversized and square envelopes will be more costly.”

Franci Hirsch The Paper Press

“You want the best expressions from the clients. They will mirror you. If you are serious and not smiling, then guess what?”

Brian Masserman Masserman Photography

Nothing beats tips from people that plan parties for a living. Mothers and friends may offer hand holding and input – but do they really know all the secrets? From room design and layout to the latest and coolest trends - we asked local experts for their guidance. Here’s what they had to share!

“It is always nice to have a lifestyle session before your celebration.

Not only do you get pictures to use for your event, you also get comfortable in front of the camera with your photographer.”

Jay Dreifus Jay Dreifus Photography

“Social media can be customized for your event, including hashtags, Snapchat geofilters and Facebook Live.”

Sherri Chmiel Emagine Theater

“Great to work with a small business, we can adjust and make changes quickly to accommodate customer requests.”

Karen Hudson Detroit Mini Donuts

“When guests walk into a crowded room they first look forward, then up. This is why a DJ focal point and ceiling treatments are so crucial to the look of your event.”

People like “bars”. Groups of ingredients to make something your way. Guacamole bar, hummus bar, cereal bar. It’s a great interactive way for your guest to enjoy what they love.

Julie Herman Annabel’s & Co. Catering

“Valet parking is not just for snowy days: it provides safety, security, guest satisfaction and peace of mind.”

Todd Duggins Star Trax Valet

Jenna Urbauer Mandell Display Design

There are other options to traditional ceremonies that take place at traditional venues. It has become more common to have private off-site ceremonies. You are able to choose the location and even have the celebration immediately following in the same space.

Rabbi Jason Miller

“Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Have confidence in your event team, and let them handle the stress! Relax, breathe, and enjoy the moment with your family.”

Dakota Brown Paradise Park

20

d The Element of ...

What’s YOUR

Element?

ECT F R E P E H T DISCOVER

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An Iconic Backdrop for Your Next Event From intimate meetings to extravagant galas, The Westin Book Cadillac is the ideal destination for your next event. With over 35,000 square feet of event space in 17 rooms, we offer countless ways to connect and celebrate in the heart of Detroit.

VISIT BOOKCADILLACWESTIN.COM OR EMAIL EMILY.COOPER@WESTIN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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