COLOR PALETTES FOR SPRING AND SUMMER EVENTS FROM FUEL TO FEATURE: FOOD AND BEVERAGES TAKE THE MAIN STAGE
Thank you for choosing our magazine as a source of information, inspiration and insight. The fact that you turn these pages, whether in print or online, means more to us than you know. It tells us that you care about the details, the experience, and the impact of every gathering.
We truly love what we do. Events are built on moments, and moments are built on touches. Every touch matters. Whether it’s nurturing a trusted vendor relationship or guiding a client through one of life’s milestone celebrations, we believe excellence lives in the details. It’s the handwritten note, the perfectly timed course, the seamless load-in, the warm welcome at the door. Those touches add comfort and intention to a well-planned gathering.
This magazine has opened doors we could have only dreamed of when we began. The journey of creating and distributing it has been pure joy, connecting with industry partners, sharing stories, and celebrating the creativity that defines our community. It is a privilege to bring these pages to life.
I would be remiss if I didn’t pause to thank our extraordinary team of planners and our dedicated support staff. Their commitment to exceptional customer service is the foundation of our brand. Their professionalism, heart, and tireless attention to detail are what allow us to serve our clients, and you, at the highest level. This publication exists because of their passion and hard work.
In this issue, you’ll find features on event design, setting the right tone from the very first impression, and treating fuel, as a featured element rather than an afterthought. We’ve also included your favorite section: Event Highlights. This personal look at celebrations we are proud to have planned offers a behind-thescenes glimpse into the creativity and collaboration that bring events to life.
Finally, the advertisers featured within these pages are our trusted partners and go-to recommendations. We encourage you to connect with them for your own event needs, knowing they uphold the same standards of excellence as we value.
We are grateful for your readership, your feedback, and your continued support. Thank you for being part of this journey with us.
With appreciation,
Geoff Kretchmer President
Twelve24 Events, Star Trax Events, Star Trax Valet
TWELVE24 EVENTS
President Geoff Kretchmer
Vice President Shannon McConnell
Vice President Jen Ajlouny
Event & Branding Specialist Jacquelyn Dorris
Marketing Director Becca Schlussel
Creative Director Michael Hnatiuk
Social Media Director Olga Hnatiuk
Director of Brand Strategy & Events
Stephanie Freedman
Event Coordinator Isabella Amadori
Event Coordinator Emily Kelly
Production Director Jimmy Lees
A/V Technician Jerome Palmeri
Valet Parking President Todd Duggins
Valet Director Blaine Tikey
Operations Coordinator Loren Stone
Controller Cindy Timoff
Accounting Specialist Chelsea Holbrook
Maintenance Director Brian Cafmeyer
CONTRIBUTORS
Publisher Twelve24 Events
President Geoff Kretchmer
Marketing Director Becca Schlussel
Creative Director Michael Hnatiuk
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Blaine Siesser Photography
Dianne Scafone Photography
Ferdinande Fotography
Sean Cook Weddings
Twelve24 Events
THE DETAILS GUESTS NEVER MENTION
Why the most memorable weddings are the ones that feel effortless.
Photography by Sean Cook Weddings
eddings are remembered for the big moments: the vows, the first dance, and the packed dance floor Guests also experience a hundred little things they rarely talk about. Long lines at the bar, awkward stretches of time with nowhere to be, music that’s just a little too loud. Guests may never mention these moments, but they feel them. And that’s where thoughtful planning quietly makes all the difference.
Take long lines, for example. No one wants to spend cocktail hour waiting for a drink, even if they politely smile through it. Behind the scenes, planners are thinking about bar placement, staffing, and timing so guests can grab a drink easily and get back to mingling. When it works, no one notices, and that’s exactly the point.
Then there are those awkward gaps in the timeline. Guests don’t always know how to articulate it, but they can feel when the energy dips or they’re unsure where to go next. A well-planned wedding flows naturally from one moment to the next, with intentional transitions that keep guests comfortable and engaged. A welcome beverage, a thoughtfully timed cocktail hour, or clear cues about what’s coming next can turn potential downtime into part of the experience.
Music is a detail guests rarely comment on but always register. When the volume is right, dinner conversation flows and the dance floor fills naturally. When it’s not, guests lean in, talk louder, or quietly check out. Planners work closely with DJs and bands to adjust sound throughout the event, making sure each moment, from ceremony to speeches to dancing, feels just right.
Comfort plays a bigger role than most couples realize. Things like temperature, seating, lighting, and even where the restrooms are located don’t sound glamorous, but they matter. Guests may not say, “The lighting was perfect,” but they will remember how easy it felt to relax, connect, and enjoy themselves. Great planners think through the guest experience from arrival to last call, smoothing out the little things so no one is thinking about them.
In the end, the most successful weddings aren’t just beautiful, they’re easy to enjoy. When guests never mention long waits, confusion, or discomfort, it’s a sign that someone was paying close attention behind the scenes. The best compliment a planner can receive is silence on the small stuff, because it means guests were free to focus on what really mattered: celebrating, connecting, and soaking in every moment.
Written by Shannon McConnell Vice President Twelve24 Events + Star Trax Events
From fuel to feature
HOW FOOD AND DRINK DRIVE
ATMOSPHERE, FLOW AND FEELING, BECOMING THE MAIN EVENT.
ood and beverage have officially stepped into the spotlight. No longer a supporting detail, catering has become a defining element of how events are experienced and remembered. Guests today expect more than a beautifully plated meal; they want interaction, intention, and moments that surprise and delight. From immersive dining experiences to beverage programs that rival top cocktail lounges, menus are evolving into storytelling tools that spark connection and conversation. As we look ahead, national food and drink trends are reshaping celebrations of every size, offering fresh inspiration for Metro Detroit hosts ready to elevate the experience from the first bite to the final sip.
One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing is the rise of interactive and experiential dining. Caterers are moving beyond traditional buffet lines to offer live culinary stations where guests can engage with chefs and build personalized plates. Think of made-to-order sushi bars, build-your-own bowls, and chef-led hibachi grills that turn meal service into entertainment. These interactive elements not only elevate guest experience but also create moments worth sharing on social media.
Desserts and late-night food experiences are also redefining receptions and celebrations. There is high demand for creative dessert stations, from gourmet ice cream sandwich bars and churros with dipping sauces to s’mores setups and customizable cannoli’s, often replacing sweet tables or the traditional wedding cake. These playful options invite guests to snack, mingle, and indulge long after the main courses are served.
Beverages have taken center stage as a storytelling element. Craft cocktails and artisanal beverages are standard parts of the catering lineup, with mixologists using fresh herbs, house-made syrups, and seasonal ingredients to craft signature drinks tailored to the event’s theme. Equally notable is the surge in sophisticated non-alcoholic options. Mocktails and zero-proof beverages are now on par with traditional cocktails in complexity and presentation, appealing to health-minded guests and those participating in the “sober curious” movement.
National trends point to wellness-focused menus and inclusive offerings that accommodate diverse dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Event caterers craft dishes that incorporate superfoods, plant-based creations, and thoughtful options for gluten-free, keto, or vegan diets. Functional beverages like kombucha on tap, adaptogen-infused drinks, and electrolyte-rich juices are also gaining traction as hosts look to keep guests energized and engaged.
Aesthetic and experiential presentations continue to rise. Grazing tables with global flavors provide both visual allure and variety for guests to explore at their leisure. Ultra-luxury touches, such as roaming oyster shuckers, or tableside Caesar salad, add a sense of theater and exclusivity to upscale events.
Finally, extreme customization of menus is emerging as a defining trend for 2026. Food is no longer a generic add-on but an extension of the event’s identity. Caterers design menus that tell a story, tying flavors and presentations to cultural themes and personal narratives. Immersive themed stations, synchronized service staff attire, and narrative food journeys help hosts elevate the guest experience from dinner to dialogue.
For hosts in Metro Detroit, these trends offer a rich palette of ideas... from interactive experiences that spark conversation to beverage selections that captivate every palate. Ultimately, the most successful events will be those that blend creativity, inclusivity, and thoughtful design into every bite.
Sean Cook Weddings
"A walking cannoli station was recently introduced by Executive Chef Matthew McGrail at the Great Lakes Culinary Center. Instead of a fixed dessert display, the Chef circulated the room with an elegant tray, assembling cannoli to order and finishing them with custom garnishes. The result was equal parts dessert and performance — a mobile moment of indulgence that meets guests where they are. This playful, Italian-inspired experience encourages interaction, sparks conversation, and turns a familiar classic into an unexpected highlight that guests will remember."
Cassy Kejonen • Director of Operations, Great Lakes Culinary Center
Written by Jen Ajlouny Vice President Twelve24
Events + Star Trax Events
Sean Cook Weddings
Sean Cook Weddings
Blaine Siesser Photography
Dianne Scafone Photography
DESIGNING WITH INTENTION
The A-list Approach to
Guest Experience
ANTICIPATION
First impressions matter
The guest experience starts long before the doors open. Building anticipation through stylish invitations, playful “Save the Dates,” and social media buzz gets guests excited early. When people are looking forward to an event before it even begins, you’re already ahead.
ARRIVAL
Set the tone right away
A smooth, warm welcome makes all the difference. Think about the guest journey from the moment they pull up: parking, signage, checkin, and the first greeting. When those elements feel effortless and friendly, guests instantly relax and settle into the experience.
ATMOSPHERE
Craft the perfect vibe
Atmosphere is the heartbeat of any event. This is where the personality of the event really shines. Décor, lighting, music, scents, textures, and even the flow of the room work together to create a memorable environment. Designing with all five senses in mind helps set the mood and reflect the personality or purpose behind the event. Thoughtful details go a long way.
APPETITE
Feed the fun
Food and drink play a major role in how an event is remembered…and it can elevate the entire experience. Choose a menu and service style—whether it’s passed hors d’oeuvres, a multi-course dinner, or a casual buffet—that fits the tone of the event. Make sure there’s variety, so every guest finds something they enjoy.
ACTIVITY
Keep the guests engaged
Entertainment and interactive elements keep the energy flowing. Music is great, but mixing in speeches, games, performances, or small surprises throughout the night keeps everyone engaged and delighted. These unexpected moments often become the stories guests share the next day.
APPRECIATION
End with gratitude
A thoughtful farewell leaves a lasting impression. Thank-you notes, personalized favors, or small take-home gifts show guests that their presence mattered. It’s a simple but meaningful way to close out the experience.
Written by Jacquelyn Dorris Event and Branding Specialist
The Diamond Center at Vibe Credit Union Showplace (formerly Suburban Collection Showplace) features three elegant ballrooms, a beautiful outdoor courtyard for ceremonies and photos, and full-service in-house catering to bring your vision to life. With 42 versatile event spaces and the attached Hyatt Place hotel just steps away, your wedding day will flow effortlessly from start to finish.
WHERE INNOVATION MEETS EVENT PERFECTION
by
THE POWER OF COMFORT-FIRST EVENT DESIGN
hen people think about event design, restrooms are rarely at the top of the inspiration list. Executive restroom trailers are most often associated with outdoor weddings, festivals, and tented celebrations. Historic venues, private homes, corporate events, and popup experiences often need supplemental restrooms to comfortably support guest counts without overwhelming existing facilities. That’s where these high-end mobile restrooms quietly shine.
If you’ve never stepped inside one, prepare to be surprised. Executive restroom trailers look and feel more like a boutique hotel powder room than anything you’d expect to see on wheels. Spacious, modern interiors feature private stalls for women’s use, separate men’s and women’s entrances, and thoughtful layouts designed to keep traffic flowing smoothly—even during peak moments.
Design details matter, and these trailers deliver. Stainless trim, mirrored vanities, warm running water at hand sinks, and interior and exterior LED lighting elevate the experience instantly. Climate control is built in as well, with heating, air conditioning, and ventilation systems that keep guests comfortable no matter the season or setting.
And this idea of comfort-first planning doesn’t stop at the restroom door.
Valet or assisted parking is another upgrade guests may not expect but instantly appreciate, especially at private homes or non-traditional venues. Instead of circling unfamiliar streets or navigating tight driveways, guests are greeted, guided, and welcomed from the moment they arrive. That sense of ease sets the tone for the entire event. When guests arrive relaxed rather than stressed, it shows in the energy they bring with them.
Climate control is another behindthe-scenes element that can quietly make or break an event. Tented spaces, warehouses, and outdoor courtyards often need supplemental heating, cooling, or air circulation to feel truly comfortable. When heaters, fans, or air conditioning units are placed thoughtfully and professionally, guests don’t notice the equipment— they just notice how good they feel. Comfortable guests stay longer, engage more, and enjoy the experience without distraction.
Soft seating and thoughtfully designed lounge areas are another comfort-forward upgrade gaining momentum across both social and corporate events. Plush couches, accent chairs, and cozy conversation groupings create natural breakout spaces where guests can step away from the main action to connect, relax, or recharge. Beyond guest comfort, these lounge moments add warmth and visual interest to the overall floorplan, softening large rooms and helping events feel more inviting and layered. Business meetings, galas, and formal functions alike are embracing these living-room-style environments to encourage networking, casual conversation, and a more welcoming atmosphere.
At the end of the day, these upgrades are about respect—for your guests, your venue, and the experience you’re creating. They prove that practical doesn’t have to mean plain, and that the most functional elements of an event can also be done strategically and beautifully.
Because the best events aren’t just seen—they’re felt.
Written by Kristin Falconer Owner, Trailer Events
Event Planning
Twelve24 Events
Photographer Sean Cook Weddings
Videographer Salar Media
and Floral
Prop9
Event Planning
Twelve24 Events
Photographer Ferdinande Fotography
Videographer
Sider Mill Video
Décor and Floral
Designs by Debbie LeClaire
Rentals
Band Ayd Events Group
Event Theory Events and Beyond
Linen Hero
New D Media Arts
Pruett Custom Events
UDesign Event Rentals
Invitation
Grand Occasions
Catering
Platinum Dish Catering
Entertainment Star Trax Events
Day of Management
Red Coat Ladies
Photo Experience
Star Trax Events
Swag and Giveaways
Perfect Trading
Venue
Temple Beth El
SETTING THE TONE
Choosing the Perfect Color Palette for Spring & Summer Events
olor is often the first design decision clients notice, and the one they struggle with most. Spring and summer naturally inspire lighter, brighter palettes, but selecting the right colors involves far more than choosing what feels seasonal. A well-developed color story sets the emotional tone of an event, influences guest perception, and ensures visual cohesion across every design element, from florals to lighting to tabletop details.
The most successful palettes don’t start with color swatches. They start with purpose.
START WITH THE EXPERIENCE, NOT THE COLORS
Before opening a paint fan deck or scrolling inspiration boards, first define how the event should feel. Color is an emotional language, and understanding the desired mood creates a strong foundation for design decisions.
BALANCE TREND WITH TIMELESSNESS
Seasonal trends often influence client requests, but long-term visual appeal should remain a priority. Highly trend-driven palettes can feel dated quickly, particularly in photography and branding materials. Instead, incorporate trendy elements through accents or textures while keeping foundational colors classic. This approach allows events to feel current without sacrificing longevity.
CHOOSE A FOUNDATION, THEN BUILD LAYERS
Strong palettes typically include three structured components:
1. A DOMINANT BASE COLOR
This sets the overall tone and often appears in linens, draping, or large design elements. Neutral or softened tones provide flexibility and longevity.
2. A SUPPORTING SECONDARY COLOR
This adds personality and contrast without overwhelming the space. It often appears in florals, paper goods, or lounge furnishings.
3. ACCENT COLORS OR METALLICS
These smaller touches introduce depth and visual interest. Accent tones may appear in glassware, signage, or lighting details.
A focused palette often photographs more elegantly and creates a stronger overall impression. Try to incorporate tonal variation rather than relying on a single flat shade. For example, layering soft greens through velvet, linen, and glass can create richness even within a narrow color range.
LET THE VENUE LEAD
Spring and summer events often take advantage of natural light and outdoor settings, making the venue a critical factor in palette selection. Ignoring existing surroundings can create visual competition instead of harmony.
Consider how colors will interact with:
• Natural landscapes and seasonal foliage
• Architectural materials like brick, stone, or wood
• Indoor lighting conditions and window exposure
• Existing furnishings and flooring
Allowing the environment to influence the palette often results in designs that feel effortless and authentic. When the palette echoes tones already present in the landscape or architecture, the design appears integrated rather than imposed. Florals look as though they belong in the setting, linens feel intentional against the flooring, and lighting enhances rather than fights the surroundings. This harmony not only elevates the guest experience but also strengthens photography, ensuring that wide shots, detail images, and candid moments all feel connected to a singular, well-considered story.
THINK BEYOND THE FLORALS
Florals frequently drive color selection, but truly cohesive palettes extend across every design element. Color should appear consistently in: stationery and signage, tabletop rentals and linens, seating options and lighting. Make sure your event's focal point is also included… bar, dance floor, entertainment. When color flows naturally across these details, guests experience a fully immersive environment rather than isolated design moments.
COLLABORATE EARLY WITH CREATIVE PARTNERS
Floral designers, rental companies, and lighting teams all influence how color is executed. Bringing creative partners into palette conversations early allows them to suggest materials, textures, and lighting techniques that enhance the chosen colors. Lighting can dramatically shift color perception. Warm ambient lighting can soften cooler tones, while crisp white lighting can modernize warmer palettes. Coordinating these elements ensures the palette remains consistent from ceremony through late-night celebration.
Written by Michael Hnatiuk Creative Director, Twelve24 Events + Star Trax Events
Photography
STAR TRAX VALET PARKING
STAR TRAX VALET has been providing car parking services since 1993. What began as a small, independent car parking business, is now a company with 300+ valet parkers that services private, corporate, and non-profit clients. Star Trax Valet can handle any size valet job with ease. Star Trax also offers traffic direction and shuttle services.
“Our goal has never been to be the largest valet service, just the best,” says Todd Duggins, valet department President. “When you hire the Star Trax Valet fully bonded and insured parking team, you can relax, knowing that your guest’s experience will be simply remarkable. We pride ourselves on our team always being professional, polite, and happy in every location and at every event they’re involved in.”
Star Trax Valet is not just about parking cars; it’s about providing a “white glove” experience. “We strive to ensure that a positive, successful, and friendly encounter is re-enforced at each and every occasion and interaction,” says Blaine Tikey, Director of Valet, “We create memorable, lasting impressions and experiences for our clients and their guests with our attentive courteous service. We understand that parking is the first and last impression to an event, and we are responsible for setting the proper tone and providing an exceptional experience.”
While Star Trax Valet’s business continues to grow each year, the goal has never changed: to provide the highest level of valet parking service that always exceeds clients’ expectations. BLAINE TIKEY and TODD DUGGINS startrax.com • (248) 263-6300
TOPGOLF ADVERTORIAL
Looking for a venue that truly has it all? Welcome to Topgolf — where unforgettable events happen effortlessly.
Whether your guests are first-time swingers or seasoned players, Topgolf creates an experience everyone can enjoy. From client entertainment and corporate conferences to milestone celebrations and mitzvahs, Topgolf is where fun meets flawless execution.
WE HANDLE EVERYTHING. YOU ENJOY EVERYTHING.
Our dedicated event specialists manage every detail from start to finish — so you can be fully present for the moments that matter.
One recent host shared:
“What I loved most about hosting my son’s Bar Mitzvah at Topgolf is that they took care of everything so that I could truly enjoy the event.”
That’s exactly what we aim for: seamless planning, stress-free hosting, and rave reviews from your guests.
A VENUE THAT’S AS IMPRESSIVE AS YOUR GUEST LIST
Topgolf combines high-tech entertainment with stylish, versatile event spaces designed to impress:
• Climate-controlled hitting bays for year-round comfort
• Flexible private spaces for 7 to 1,000+ guests
• Chef-inspired menus that elevate the experience
• State-of-the-art technology that keeps everyone engaged
Want to take your event to the next level? We offer customizable enhancements to make your celebration one-of-a-kind:
• Golf pros for personalized swing tips
• Tournaments and scrambles for fundraisers or team-building
• Kid-friendly party packages and goodie bags
We’ve thought of everything — so you don’t have to.
TAILORED TO YOU, EVERY TIME
Kate Presutti, Director of Sales, explains it best:
“Our job is to truly get to know you — your vision, your priorities, and what you want your guests saying after the event. When we make that connection, we’re able to design the perfect event every time.”
If you’re looking for a turnkey experience that delivers year after year, Topgolf is your partner in making it happen. Let our team guide you through the possibilities — and prepare to wow your guests at every turn. Ready to start planning? Your unforgettable event begins at Topgolf.
