ISES Dallas Chapter Events Blog

ISES Dallas Blog is Moving!

2011-07-29T15:47:00.000-07:00

The ISES Dallas blog is moving to a new site which is synced up with our redesigned website!

Check it out here: http://isesdallaschapter.com/blog/

And don't forget to visit our newly renovated website at www.isesdallas.com.

It has a new, easier to navigate format, live update feeds, extensive photo galleries and more!

Buzz Blitz: Brandon Olds, Celebrity DJ

2011-06-19T14:56:00.000-07:00

The first Multi-Touch DJ System that allows the crowd to see EXACTLY what DJ Brandon Olds is doing on a huge LCD TRANSPARENT touch screen.

This incredible package is available for both US and International bookings.

Brandon Olds Celebrity DJ

972.943.9427

Brandon@BOLDent.biz

http://www.boldentertainment.biz/the-bold-vu/

Buzz Blitz - Belo Mansion

2011-04-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

ISES Incentive from the Belo Mansion!

Confirm a new event that takes place before December 31, 2011! Receive a gift card from Ristorante Nicola’s. Contact Bryan Starnes at 214 -220-7417. bstarnes@dallasbar.org www.belomansion.com.

ISES Olympics

2011-04-19T07:24:00.000-07:00

6th Annual Industry Olympics

The Industry Olympics is an annual event which brings all the Hospitality Industry Organizations together for an evening of fun and competition. Each organization puts up a team to battle the other organizations in industry-related games to claim the prize as the best team.

The date of this year’s event is Monday, May 16, 2011, at the Dallas Zoo. The event begins at 5:30 and is over by 9:00pm. Teams MUST be present by 5:30 PM in order to participate in the competition. Eight (8) members are required per team. You must be on a team to compete but you don’t have to be on a team to attend. We will have activities for guests who are not part of a team.

FREE PARKING will be provided on site.

Advanced registration is $45.00 per guest (provided they are a member of a participating industry organization) or $65.00 for non-members or late registrations. Each team must pay a $25.00 per team flat registration fee. The $25.00 will serve as an “Adopt an Animal” donation for one of the zoo’s animals. Your selected animal will also serve as your team mascot. Team uniforms/costumes are encouraged!

Available animals are:

· Virginia Opossum

· Pygmy Hedgehog Tenrec

· Pink-toed Tarantula

· Nigerian Dwarf Goat

· Mallard Duck

· Blue-tongued Skink

· Bantam Rooster

· Ball Python

· Naked Mole Rat

· Broad-banded Copperhead Snake

· Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

· Vietnamese Wood Turtle

· African Bullfrog

· Poison Dart Frog

· Rock Hyrax

· Fairy Bluebird

· Superb Starling

Mascots will be assigned on a first come, first serve basis so register your team today to ensure you get your first choice of mascot!

This is a great event as it puts you in contact with all the industry professional organizations at one time.

The event itself is sponsored by ISES. Team-building will be provided by

i Entertainment . This year’s event chair is Melanie Goodwin, CMP, DMCP from Ultimate Ventures:

Melanie Goodwin, CMP, DMCP

972-732-8433 office

972-693-3435 cell

melanie@uvdmc.com

We hope to see you at this year’s Industry Olympics!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

3rd Annual NACE Community Service Program & Iron Chef Competition

2011-04-18T08:11:00.000-07:00

Click Here to Register

Congratulation to all our Texas Star Awards Winners!

2011-03-30T08:08:00.000-07:00

Best Event Videography

"Tracie & Chance"

Shezad Manjee of Hakim Sons Films

Best Event Photography

"A Very Fairy Birthday"

Chris Smith of Ivey Photography

Best Catered Event

"Boots & Bordeaux"

Geni Morin of Creative Cuisine

Best Event Design & Decor

"Parisian Valentine"

India Rhodes & Belinda Wilkinson of Wilkinson Rhodes

Best Technical Production

"Nocturnal Wonderland: An Epic Festival"

Hyacinth Belcher CSEP of Onstage Systems

Best Marketing & Design Collateral Under $25,000

"Elan Music Festival"

Kristie & Christian Vento of The Venue Marketing Group

Best Social Event Under $75,000

"A Very Fairy Birthday"

Yvette Audrain CSEP, CPCE of Premier Special Events

Best Social Event Over $75,000

"Beach Party Birthday Bash"

Jim Monroe CSEP, CMP of J. Monroe Designs and Carol Marks of Carol Marks Music

Best Wedding Under $75,000

"Dean/Harpel Wedding"

Yvette Audrain CSEP, CPCE of Premier Special Events

Best Wedding Over $75,000

"A Truly Entertaining Wedding"

Haley Hughes of En Vogue Events

Best Corporate Event Over $75,000

"The World Series Gala"

Steven Foster of Circle R Ranch

Best Entertainment Production Under $25,000

"You Have One Minute"

Philip Smerick of Murder Mystery Players

Best Entertainment Production $25,000-75,000

"Art Prize 2010"

Debbie Meyers CSEP of Bravo! Entertainment

Best Entertainment Production Over $75,000

"Steve's Dream Birthday Band"

Carol Marks of Carol Marks Music

Best Non-Profit Event Under $75,000

"Teams for Children"

Yvette Audrain CSEP, CPCE of Premier Special Events

Best Non-Profit Event Over $75,000

"From Basketballs to Snowballs"

Val Lenington CSEP, CMP, DMCP of Ultimate Ventures

Best Event Produced for a Texas Event Association Under $75,000

"Autumn Elegance"

Paige Mejia of Time Capsule Media

Best Team Effort $75,000

"Art Party"

Damany Daniel of Eventbrite

Kristie Vento of The Venue Marketing Group

Rachel Derman of Magic Moments Events

Best Team Effort Over $200,000

"Studio Back Lot Experience"

Steve Kemble of Kemble Event Design

Marla Watson-Werst CSEP, CTA of PeaPod Group

Dean Faulkner of LiveWire Special Events, Inc

Marshall Leak of Diversified Media Group

Jason Sims of Fun Factory Events

Steve Hand of The Hand Company

Kuki Gomez of Kuki Design

Ivan Hall of Kuki Design

Chris Arrendondo of Eclipse Entertainment

Cameron Fox of i-entertainment

Congratulations to our Texas Star Award Nominees

2011-03-22T08:20:00.000-07:00

Best Event Design & Décor

“Masquerade”

India Rhodes & Belinda Wilkinson - Wilkinson Rhodes

“Parisian Valentine’s Day”

India Rhodes & Belinda Wilkinson - Wilkenson Rhodes

Best Catered Event

“Boots & Bordeaux”

Geni Morin - Creative Cuisine

“The Legacy Ball”

Lisa Huszar - Tastefully Yours

Best Technical Production

“March of Dimes”

Ryan Kelley - BEYOND

“Nocturnal Wonderland – An Epic Festival”

Hyacinth Belcher - OnStage Systems

“DSW Shoe Awards”

Coy Galloway - Swank Audio Visual

Best Entertainment Production Under $25,000

“You Have One Minute”

Philip Smerick - Murder Mystery Players

Best Entertainment Production $25,000 – $75,000

Art Prize 2010

Debbie Meyers - BRAVO! Entertainment

Best Entertainment Production Over $75,000

“Steve’s Dream Birthday Band”

Carol Marks - Carol Marks Music

Best Marketing/Design Collateral Under $25,000

“Faux Wedding Video Invitation”

Paige Mejia - Time Capsule Media

“Elan Music Festival”

Kristie & Christian Vento - The Venue Marketing Group

“Texas EHDI Summit”

Kristie & Christian Vento – The Venue Marketing Group

Best Event Photography

“A Very Fairy Birthday”

Chris Smith - Ivey Photography

“Holiday Photos on the Fly”

Richard Didow - Catch the Moment

Best Event Videography

“Make Your Own Flight Plans”

Jennifer Burns - BEYOND

“A Fairy Tale Wedding at the Ritz Carlton-Dallas”

Jennifer Burns - BEYOND

“Tracie & Chance”

Shezad Manjee - Hakim Sons Films

“Hollywood Behind the Scenes”

Marla Watson-Werst - PeaPod Group

Best Corporate Event Over $75,000

“Biggest Pie Fight in the World”

Susan Kilgore - Outstanding Productions

Best Non-Profit Event Under $75,000

“Picnic at the Ballpark”

Loretta Morgan - Carter Bloodcare

“Teams for Children”

Yvette Audrain - Premier Special Events

Best Non-Profit Event Over $75,000

“From Basketballs to Snowballs”

Val Lennington - Ultimate Ventures

Best Wedding Under $75,000

“Dean/Harpel Wedding”

Yvette Audrain - Premier Special Events

“Wes & Sara’s Wedding”

Meredith Commender - Significant Events of Texas

Best Wedding Over $75,000

“Truly Entertaining Wedding”

Haley Hughes - En Vogue Events

“Sheri & Jeffrey’s Ranch Wedding”

Carol Abram - Amazing Events

Best Social Event Under $75,000

“A Very Fairy Birthday”

Yvette Audrain - Premier Special Events

“Masquerade”

India Rhodes & Belinda Wilkinson - Wilkinson Rhodes

Best Social Event Over $75,000

“Celebrating at Carly’s Carnival”

Carol Abram - Amazing Events

“Julie’s Journey”

Carol Abram - Amazing Events

“Beach Party Birthday Bash”

Jim Monroe - J. Monroe Designs

Best Event Produced for a Texas Event Association Under $75,000

“Autumn Elegance”

Paige Mejia - Time Capsule Media

“Best Team Effort Under $75,000”

“Art Party”

Damany Daniel – EventBrite
Kristie Vento - The Venue Marketing Group
Rachel Derman - Magic Moments Parties & Events

Best Team Effort Over $200,000

“Beach Party Birthday Bash”

· Melissa Pruitt - Airstar Space Lighting of Texas

· Carol Marks - Carol Marks Music

· Mike Miller - Drinks Fantastic

· Jim Monroe - J. Monroe Designs

· Jayna Monroe – J. Monroe Designs

· Jonathan Goldwater - Gladtower Live Productions

· Howard Eckhart - Magic Moments Parties & Events

· Nick Mallouf - Mallouf Photography

· Hyacinth Belcher - Onstage Systems

· Leanne Sutton - Orange Spot Pink Nose

· Marla Watson-Werst - PeaPod Group

· Randy Beckham - Pyrotex

· David Husbands - Rental Stop

“Studio Back Lot Experience”

· Marshall Leak - Diversified Media Group

· Jason Sims - Fun Factory Events

· Steve Hand - The Hand Company

· Steve Kemble - Kemble Event Design

· Kuki Gomez - Kuki Designs

· Ivan Hall – Kuki Designs

· Dean Faulkner - LiveWire Special Events

· Marla Watson-Werst - PeaPod Group

Everything You Need to Know About the 2011 Esprit Awards!

2011-03-16T09:30:00.000-07:00

An ISES Esprit Award is more than your fifteen minutes of fame -- it’s the opportunity to showcase you and your team’s creativity, uniqueness, and the consistent quality you have to offer. Being an ISES Esprit Award recipient will provide the distinct competitive advantage to sing your praises to customers, potential clients, vendors and colleagues, reminding them of your accomplishments and industry expertise!

Since 1995 ISES has acknowledged the achievements of outstanding work by it’s membership through the ISES Esprit Awards. The Awards celebrate the best of the best in multiple categories that span all membership disciplines within the ISES membership.

Whether you set the stage, cook the food, design the invitation or create an experience...you have the ability to enter your best work into the ISES Esprit Awards. And it’s never been easier with the new on-line submission process.

Click here to learn more on how to enter the 2011 ISES Esprit Awards.

Click here to see which fabulous category you should be submitting for!

And click here to find the Frequently Asked Questions.

Texas Star Awards Submission Information

2011-01-30T09:42:00.000-08:00

How to enter a Texas Star Award

Download the entry guidelines and decide which events to enter.
Gather any needed information or collateral.
Write your entry- carefully following the rules. Remember- no company names anywhere in the entry.
If entering a team entry assign tasks for each team member.
Visit www.Texasstarawards.com and click on the ENTER AN EVENT button. This will take you to the payment site.
Enter your information and pay for your entry. Group entries can provide one payment.
You will receive a confirmation email with a link to the upload site
You will receive a separate email with your individual username and password (it may take 24-48 hours to receive this).
Enter your username and password
10. Upload your entry
Now go back to www.texasstarawards.com and register for the dinner and book your hotel if needed.
Attend the Texas Star Awards Ceremony on March 27th, 2011 and cross your fingers!

Questions?
Contact Glenn Roush glenn@roushproductions.com 214.709.3132

Best Event Design/Décor
This category honors excellence in event design. Design/Décor items included in this category are theme décor, floral design, props, scenery and/or display design and balloon artistry. Eligible entrants must have designed and implemented the work submitted (not the person who contracted/paid for the design and/or installation) If this was a shared venture both parties may enter together as a joint entry.

Under $25,000
$25,000 - $75,000
Over $75,000

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives through design/décor? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Describe the event’s overall design, including its complexity, creative elements, marketing, production and/or logistical details. (4500 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event as it pertains to event design/décor. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

_______________________________________________

Best Catered Event
This category honors excellence in Caterering: either on or off-premise. Eligible entrants include caterers, specialty bakeries, restaurants, facility operators, hotels, or any other entity that provides food to the special events industry.

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives through catering? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Describe the Catering concept including creative elements and presentation. (2250 Characters)
Explain how the Catering concept demonstrated innovation in culinary skills, presentation or service and how your services integrated into and enhanced the overall event. (2250 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event as it pertains to catering.
Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)

_______________________________________________

Best Entertainment Production
This category honors excellence in entertainment production. Eligible entrants include entertainment producers, choreographer, designer, event professional or the performers of event entertainment.

Under $25,000
$25,000 - $75,000
Over $75,000

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives through entertainment? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Explain the event’s Entertainment Production including products/services utilized for the event, creative elements and/or logistical details. (2250 Characters)
Describe the degree of difficulty in the execution of the services provided by your company. (2250 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event as it pertains to entertainment production. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget- must include all production costs.

_______________________________________________
Best Technical Production
This category honors excellence in special event technical, design or execution services. Eligible items include but are not limited to lighting, audio visual, multi-media, staging and special effects. Eligible entrants must have designed and implemented the work submitted (not the person who contracted/paid for the design and/or installation.) If this was a shared venture both parties may enter together as a joint entry.

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives through technical production? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Explain the event’s Technical Production including products/services utilized for the event, creative elements and/or logistical details. (2250 Characters)
Describe the degree of difficulty in the execution of the services provided by youcompany. (2250 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event as it pertains to technical production. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

_______________________________________________

Best Event Support Services
This category honors excellence in event support services. Eligible entrants include but are not limited to tenting, transportation, rentals, linens, furniture, and/or other specialty service. Eligible entrants must have implemented the work submitted (not the person who contracted/paid for the services). If this was a shared venture both parties may enter together as a joint entry.

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives through event support services? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Explain the event’s production including products/services utilized for the event, creative elements and/or logistical details. (2250 Characters)
Describe the degree of difficulty in the execution of the services provided by your company. (2250 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event as it pertains to event support services. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

_______________________________________________

Best Marketing/Design Collateral
This category honors excellence in marketing/design. Eligible entrants include producers and designers of event marketing collateral. Eligible collateral includes advertising, promotional pieces, invitations, event signage, etc. Best Marketing/Design Collateral

Under $25,000
Over $25,000

Describe the event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives through marketing/design collateral? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Describe the Marketing/Design concept including creative elements. (2250 Characters)
Explain how the Marketing/Design integrated into the overall event. (1125 Characters)
Describe the process for measuring the success of the Marketing /Design concepts. (1125 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event as it pertains to Marketing/Design Collateral. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

_______________________________________________

Best Event Photography
This category honors excellence in event photography. Eligible entrants are photographers or event planning professionals.

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How were these goals and objectives addressed through photography? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how were they addressed? (2250 Characters)
Describe your Photographic concept including creative elements and perspective. (2250 Characters)
Explain how your services demonstrated innovation in skills or presentation and how your services integrated into, or enhanced the overall event. (2250 Characters)

_______________________________________________

Best Event Videography
This category honors excellence in event videography. Eligible entrants are videographers or event planning professionals.

Describe the event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How were these goals and objectives addressed through videography? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how were they addressed? (2250 Characters)
Describe your Videograhpic concept including creative elements and perspective. (2250 Characters)
Explain how your services demonstrated innovation in skills or presentation and how your services integrated into, or enhanced the overall event. (2250 Characters)

_______________________________________________

Best Corporate Event
This category honors excellence in corporate event planning. Eligible entrants include corporate event planning professionals, facility or venue managers, producers and manager of events for corporations. Events in this category may include, but are not limited to, company celebrations, employee or client appreciation celebrations, etc.
*Note- Events produced by an event organization are not eligible in this category. For
example, an MPI meeting would not qualify.

Under $75,000
Over $75,000

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Describe the event’s overall design, including its complexity, creative elements, marketing, production and/or logistical details. (4500 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

_______________________________________________

Best Meeting /Conference Program
This category honors excellence in meeting/conference programs. Eligible entrants include meeting and conference planning professionals, destination management companies or other entities that provide these types of meeting/conference services for single or multi-day programs.
*The submission must include BOTH a meeting and special event component.
*Note- Events produced by an event organization, are not eligible in this category. For
example, a STEP conference would not qualify.

Under $250,000
Over $250,000

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Describe the event’s overall design, including its complexity, creative elements, marketing, production and/or logistical details. (4500 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

_______________________________________________

Best Public Event
This category honors excellence in public event planning. Eligible entrants include public event planning professionals or other entities that provide these types of public event services. Events in this category may include, but are not limited to, street fairs, festivals, concerts, sporting events.

Describe the event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Describe the event’s overall design, including its complexity, creative elements, marketing, production and/or logistical details. (4500 Characters)
Outline the event’s marketing plan and describe the process for measuring the success of the public event. (1125 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

_______________________________________________

Best Event for a Non-Profit Organization
This category honors excellence in non-profit event planning. Eligible entrants include non-profit event planning professionals and other entities that provide these types of non-profit event planning services. Events in this category may include, but are not limited to, fundraisers, institutions, campaigns, kick-off events and/or donor events.
*Note- Events produced by an event organization, but benefitting a charity are not
eligible in this category. For example, a NACE fundraiser would not qualify.

Under $75,000
Over $75,000

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Describe the event’s overall design, including its complexity, creative elements, marketing, production and/or logistical details. (4500 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

_______________________________________________

Best Wedding
This category honors excellence in wedding planning. Eligible entrants include wedding planning professionals and other entities that provide these types of wedding planning services. Events in this category include Weddings.

Under $75,000
Over 75,000

Describe the Wedding. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the wedding. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Describe the wedding’s overall design, including its complexity, creative elements, production and/or logistical details. (4500 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the wedding. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

_______________________________________________

Best Social Event (non-wedding)
This category honors excellence in social event planning. Eligible entrants include social event planning professionals and other entities that provide these types of social event planning services. Events in this category include but are not limited to bar/bat mitzvahs, personal celebration, Milestone birthdays i.e. Sweet 16, 40, 50, etc.
*Note- Events produced by an event organization, are not eligible in this category. For
example, a JWI social would not qualify.

Under $75,000
Over $75,000

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Describe the event’s overall design, including its complexity, creative elements, production and/or logistical details. (4500 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

_______________________________________________

Best Team Effort
This category honors excellence by a team of Texas event professionals (a minimum of three Texas event association members must participate to qualify). The team leader is responsible for the entry submission and payment. Multiple payment methods will result in disqualification. Events in this category may include any event produced for a client. Team members may be a member of any Texas event association. All team members do not have to be a member of the same organization. For example, a team could have members from MPI, STEP, ISES and NACE.

Under $75,000
$75,000 - $200,000
Over $200,000

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How where these goals and objectives addressed? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how were they addressed? (2250 Characters)
Describe the event’s overall design, including its complexity, creative elements, and/or logistical details. (4500 Characters)
Each team member must provide a description of their role on the ISES team and explain how the ISES team worked together to accomplish the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (2250 Characters per team member)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

_______________________________________________

Best Event Produced for a Texas Event Association
This category honors excellence in event planning for meetings, socials, and fundraisers for Texas event organizations. Eligible entrants include Texas event planning professionals, facility or venue managers, producers and manager of events for event associations. Events in this category may include, but are not limited to, educational meetings, galas, fundraisers, etc. If the invitation came from a Texas event organization, it would be eligible. Budgets will be compared in retail values, not actual
costs.

Under $75,000
Over $75,000

Describe the Event. (2250 Characters)
Outline the client’s goals and objectives for the event. (1125 Characters)
How did you address these goals and objectives? (2250 Characters)
What challenge(s) arose and how did you address these challenge(s)? (2250 Characters)
Describe the event’s overall design, including its complexity, creative elements, marketing, production and/or logistical details. (4500 Characters)
Describe the Production Management Process for the event. Describe each phase of the process including Development, Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production. Address the steps taken to ensure risk management control. (4500 Characters)
Budget

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F.A.Q.

What are the Texas Star Awards?

The Texas Star Awards program is designed to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts, performance, and outstanding contributions of Texas event industry organization members.

What is the cost to enter the Awards?

The Texas Star Awards cost $75 per entry submission until Sunday February 27th,2011 at 11:59 CST. Late entries will be accepted until March 6th, 2011 at 11:59pm CST. Late entries will incur an additional $25 fee per entry.

Who can enter the awards?

Any Texas event industry organization member in good standing on or before March 1st, 2011 is eligible to enter the Texas Star Awards competition.

Why should I enter the Texas Star Awards?

By entering the Texas Star Awards, you are able to demonstrate the caliber of work that you or your company creates. This is your opportunity to show others in the industry your talent and what makes your company stand apart from the competition. Imagine being able to tell your clients that you and your company are “award winning!”

Who Judges the Awards?

In order to maintain fairness in the judging, the Texas Star Awards are entirely anonymous. ISES event professionals throughout the world form sub-committees to judge the award entries by category. Each judging team’s scores are returned to ISES Dallas Headquarters to be totaled to determine winners in each award category.

How do I enter?

Download the entry criteria. Be sure to follow all of the rules and submit your entry by the noted deadline. Eligible events must have occurred between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2010.

What are the most common reasons for disqualification?

If you follow the rules and submission instruction guide and category specific guidelines, your entry will be valid. Most common mistakes include: Logo inclusion, entrant name and/or company name included in the entered content, on submitted file names or in collateral materials. Incomplete budgets or those not including all elements/retail costs are also cause for disqualification.

Where and when are the Texas Star Awards presented and received?

ISES Dallas will recognize the outstanding accomplishments of Texas event professionals at the Texas Star Awards celebration in Dallas on Sunday March 27th, 2011.

What is the submission deadline date?

Entries are due by electronic submission on or before midnight, CST February 27th, 2011.
Need a little extra time? This year late entries will be accepted from 12:01 am, CST February 28th, 2011 thru March 6th, 2011 at 11:59 CST. Late entries will incur an additional $25 fee. Absolutely no entries will be accepted after March 6th, 2011.

Will my Entries Be Returned?

All Entries are the sole property of ISES Dallas and will not be returned to any entrant. However, every entrant has the option to print a pdf. of their submission.

Why Attend Eventworld 2011?

2011-01-18T07:11:00.000-08:00

Network with Peers

Meet with professionals from around the globe
Create a resource list of individuals who can be a resource when working out of your city
Share ideas and broaden your base knowledge
Make contacts as this will make your company more known throughout the industry.

Gain Knowledge

Attend sessions that will increase your base knowledge and open doors to new experiences that you can share with the rest of your staff
Learn about the latest trends through the various keynote and panel discussions with industry leaders
Share your knowledge on the latest areas of growth within the industry, as well as information about their events.

Grow Professionally

Discover new tools, solutions and trends that will improve and prepare your business for the next level in special events.
Obtain points toward your industry certifications for attendance and participation in classes

Obtain Lead Referrals

Generate leads while you have plenty of face time with your potential clients
Grow your business through contacts met in a personal setting

Brand Your Business

Opportunity to showcase your company through sponsorship
Position your company’s message in front of all the attendees

Can you afford NOT to attend?

Travel, hotel, registration, some events information is posted on the conference website - http://ew.ises.com. Education, agendas and more specific information will be posted in the coming weeks.

Registration will open soon! http://ew.ises.com

Education Committee Looking For Members!

2011-01-18T07:02:00.001-08:00

The Education Committee is looking for new members! If you are interested in working on the content for our Bi Monthly Educational Meetings, Power Lunches, or Masters Series, please email Kristen Dickson CSEP at kristen@georgecatering.com. (Bonus: Requires very few meetings :))

CSEP Discussion Group :: Sign Up Now!

2011-01-18T07:01:00.000-08:00

*ISES Dallas will be holding an Info Session on TUESDAY FEBRUARY 8TH at 6pm, location TBD, for those who have questions and would like to learn more about the process. For those of you who are sure you want to study for the test & want to participate in the ISES Dallas Study Group, the dates have been tentatively scheduled for every Tuesday night from 6pm-8:30pm from February 8th - March 15th, location TBD. If you are interested in signing up or learning more, please email Kristen Dickson, CSEP at kristen@georgecatering or csep@isesdallas.com by January 31.

BIG CHANGES TO THE CSEP!

The ISES Certification Committee is proud to announce the following enhancements to the CSEP (Certified Special Event Professional) Exam application process:
Applicants no longer have to purchase a CSEP Exam Instruction Manual. All exam information, requirements, and the exam application are accessible online at any time on the new ISES website, on the CSEP web pages for free.
The CSEP candidate’s event management knowledge, skills, and abilities are tested through our rigorous, industry respected exam, and therefore candidates are no longer required to provide “points” as part of the application process. However, the candidates are still required to still show proof that they are actively employed in the special events industry for a minimum of three (3) years full time.
Letters of recommendation are no longer required as part of the application process.
Once a new candidate is ready to sit for the exam, only one payment is required as opposed to three separate fees. Candidates will be charged a one time $600.00 USD fee.
The exam retake fee has been reduced to $200.00 USD.
A new CSEP website has been created so candidates and current CSEPs will have access to simple step-by-step exam application, exam and CSEP recertification procedures.
The one (1) year exam time limitation for approved CSEP candidates has been eliminated. Candidates can sit for the exam as soon as they feel prepared to do so

2011-01-10T15:37:00.000-08:00

invites you to

Fire & Ice

January 18 5:30-7:30pm

Drinks, appetizers, entertainment, giveaways

& VIP tour highlighting renovations to come

prizes include floor seats to see the Mavericks v Lakers game

RSVP with Ashley Ashley@bizcompr.com

www.dallasmarriottcitycenter.com

January Bi-Monthly Education Program: "Working with Non-Profits"

2010-12-28T13:44:00.000-08:00

Click Here To Register

Free VIP Pass to the 23rd Annual Partyfest!!

2010-12-21T07:39:00.000-08:00

Toys for Tots

2010-12-07T06:33:00.000-08:00

I want to start by expressing my deepest gratitude for all of you that donated to the North Texas Food Bank in November. Our efforts helped provide 9,843 meals for people who would be going hungry this holiday without the food bank.

As we continue into the holiday season, ISES is going to continue to give back by supporting the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. You have two opportunities to give this month. First, register online for the December 13th Happy Hour (happy hour is free) and donate cash. Second, bring unwrapped toys to the ISES Happy Hour! We will have a member of the Marine Corps on site to help us collect the toys.

I know this is a busy time of year for our industry, but I hope you will take a few minutes out of your day to help provide a gift to a child who would not receive one without Toys for Tots.

Sincerely,
Glenn Roush
ISES Director of Philanthropy

Congratulations Damany Daniel!

2010-12-06T18:38:00.000-08:00

The SEARCH Foundation awarded Damany Daniel a full education package scholarship to attend The Special Event 2011 in Phoenix!

Congratulations Damany and we are glad to have you representing ISES Dallas at TSE!

ISES Dallas Giving Back To The Community

2010-11-30T18:48:00.000-08:00

ISES Dallas members volunteered at the North Texas Food Bank. They gave their time and energy to helping pack bags that were distributed to families to help them \have a good warm meal during the holidays.

for more pictures click here

Our volunteers included: Yvette Audrain CSEP, CPCE, Glenn Roush, Nick Mallouf, Andy Austin, Nathan White, Marla Watson-Werst CSEP, CTA, Rachel Derman, Ashton Hartner

The Special Event

2010-11-30T18:23:00.000-08:00

The event industry has gone through a couple of challenging years. Over the past months, event professionals have been picking themselves up and looking at ways to adapt their businesses to the new economic reality. The Special Event 2011 is focused on the art of transforming challenge into opportunity by giving event professionals the tools they need to transform themselves and their businesses. Make this year the “Dawn of a New Beginning” by joining the largest gathering of event professionals in the world at The Special Event 2011. Shift into a positive gear and start the year off right:

• Boost your morale and make important business connections by networking with fellow event professionals.
• Be ready to learn by seeing, hearing, tasting and experiencing the fabulous Showcasing Events
• Get invaluable help on how to run your event business as well as the latest trends in design, weddings, & food services in the Professional Event Training Sessions
• Discover thousands of event products and services on the tradeshow floor - perfect for giving your events a complete makeover

click here to see registration options!

ISES Dallas is partnering with the North Texas Food Bank

2010-11-10T07:42:00.000-08:00

We at ISES Dallas are committed to helping our local community and are doing our part this month by donating time and food items to the North Texas Food Bank. We have several ways you can help feed people here locally during the holiday season. If you want more information on the North Texas Food Bank, click here.

When you register you can quickly donate through Regonline while you register for our November 15th program!
Bring money or non-perishable food items to the program Monday, November 15th.
You can volunteer at the North Texas Food Bank on November 23rd. Contact our Director of Philanthropy, Glenn Roush for more information!

November Bi-Monthly Education Program: So You Think You Can Plan

2010-11-01T20:20:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

ISES Dallas wants to hear from you!

2010-10-24T13:36:00.000-07:00

We are looking to hear from our members! We want to hear what value you receive from your involvement with ISES? What is your favorite thing about ISES Dallas programs, membership, special programs involvement? Whatever you like about ISES and ISES Dallas let us know and your quote might be selected to be featured on the ISES Dallas website!

Email Ashley Holder with your quote!

Rising Star Scholarships to TSE 2011 Available from SEARCH Foundation

2010-10-20T14:43:00.001-07:00

The SEARCH Foundation has teamed up with The Special Event (TSE) to provide each ISES chapter the opportunity to submit one (1) scholarship application for the Full Education Package registration at this year’s TSE conference (events not included) in Phoenix, Arizona January 25-28, 2011.

Contact Yvette Audrain, ISES Dallas President, to obtain an application. Applications need to be submitted to Yvette no later than November 5, 2010.

Each recipient will be nominated and selected by their individual chapter and then approved by SEARCH. This scholarship was made possible by the merging of ISEF (International Special Events Foundation) into the SEARCH Foundation in December 2009. The SEARCH Foundation is committed to fulfilling the continuing education principles established by ISEF and following the ISES mission statement.

“So You Think You Can Plan - Play Stump the Panel”

2010-10-18T08:18:00.001-07:00

Do you have a wacky, one-of-a-kind event industry experience or dilemma you want to share with your fellow ISES Members?

Have you ever wondered what your colleagues would do in that same situation?

Do you want to throw one of your crazy experiences at a Panel of ISES Professionals and see if they can talk their way out of it??

For the November 15^th Bi-Monthly Event Program, we’re asking you ISES members to submit your most ridiculous event experiences. Then, our Panel will have to come up with their own resolutions to your problem/situation – What would they have done if they were in your shoes? Submit your story to Emily Mead at emily@significanteventsoftexas.com. All submissions will remain anonymous.

The Ashley Miller Benefit

2010-10-18T07:42:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CLICK HERE

Business Bootcamp! November Master Series

2010-10-18T07:36:00.000-07:00

PLEASE NOTE NEW DATE!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

ADME Awards judges needed.

2010-10-11T18:44:00.000-07:00

The Association of Destination Management Executives is looking to find a panel of 4-6 judges to help judge one of their awards categories for the year. If you are interested, please contact Darcie Wooten of Ultimate Ventures to schedule a date and time.

September Program Sponsor Recap

2010-10-11T17:42:00.000-07:00

“A Wedding for All Seasons: An Evening with Sasha Souza”

By Ashley Holder

The Hilton Anatole hosted ISES Dallas and its guests for the September program about wedding design presented by Sasha Souza. Sasha Souza is the owner of Sasha Souza Events in California and does events all over the world.

VIP guests had the opportunity to go up to Nana to visit in a more intimate environment with Sasha over cocktails. Once the VIP time was over, everyone headed downstairs to the Wedgwood Room for socializing and to see the entries to the Design Board Competition. Guests entering into the event walked through the entries from event planners, florists and more.

Stunning pictures of the weddings and dreams weddings were perfectly presented on poster boards. In the reception area, guests were treated to beautiful ladies dressed in amazing wedding gowns compliments of Triple Play Staffing and The White Gown Showroom respectively. Elan Make Up showed off their skills with a make up brush by doing the models’ make up for the evening. CORT Event Furnishings provided luxurious furniture for guests to perch on as they talked to others.

Finally the doors swung open and guests filed into the ballroom where they were transported to a fairy tale wedding. The four seasons were represented by groups of tables which were adored with lavish centerpieces varied from beautiful arrangements of roses, calla lilies, and orchids and more provided by Out of the Garden. Each tabletop testified to how tabletop décor such as china and glassware can carry through with a theme down to the smallest details. Ducky-Bob’s Event Specialists provided the tabletop items and linens. The chargers furthered the décor by being customized with removable stick-ons of excerpts from Sasha Souza’s book, Signature Sasha: Magnificent Weddings by Design. Menu cards, signage and graphic design were all compliments of Orange Spot, Pink Nose. The focal point to the room however was the stunning cake provided by Frosted Art Bakery. We all know lighting is what really transforms a room. Beyond provided all the lighting including uplighting which shifted color throughout the event which morphed the ambience to make it seem like an entirely different room. Gobos kindly provided by In-Light Gobos used blank wall space to show quotes from Sasha’s book. Glenn Roush of Roush Productions was our amazing emcee and provided the entertainment for the evening which added a special touch to the program. The wonderful staff of PSAV made sure we had everything we needed for the sound and visual for the program. All the photos are compliments of Mallouf Photography.

Value of Work

Hilton Anatole $10,000

Ducky-Bob’s Event Specialists $4,446

Out of the Garden $7,500

Orange Spot, Pink Nose $2,600

Beyond $3,920

Roush Productions $1,000

Frosted Art Bakery $1,000

Mallouf Photography $500

Triple Play Staffing $750

In-Light Gobos $528

PSAV $2,745

Total $34,989

Other Donations by: The White Gown Showroom, CORT Event Furnishing, Elan Make Up

"Crossing the Fine Line - Remaining Ethical in Sticky Situations"

2010-10-05T07:17:00.000-07:00

By Melanie Goodwin, Program Manager at Ultimate Ventures

The event industry is rife with ethical gray areas which we encounter every day. The creative, collaborative and interconnected nature of our business can often produce blurry lines that are easy to cross - even when trying to do the right thing. The best way to navigate these issues is to remain aware and recognize delicate situations.

Some of the most common situations which arise in this industry are questions of creative/intellectual property, discounts, and direct contact with vendors.

Doing It Yourself

People are a service company's greatest resource. The majority of a company's budget is often spent on acquiring, keeping, and developing their staff. Therefore, the ideas and work created by staff are the intellectual property of the company and thus also of great value to a company - and thus belong to that company.

If a company proposes an excellent event idea, reproducing it without them in order to save money is crossing the line. Taking another company's intellectual property without compensating them in any way is a form of theft. While many escape prosecution, it is still an infringement on the company's rights; without them you would never have thought of that exact idea.

If one absolutely cannot afford to pay the company to create the event, let them know that their idea is wonderful but it's not within the budget. Most companies will be happy to work to maintain the essence of the event while reducing cost, especially since the pains of the recent recession are so fresh in everyone's minds. Alternatively they may be willing to consent to the use of their idea for a consultation fee compensating them for their time, effort, and creative services.

Going Direct

If the knowledge of a service is learned through an agent, event planner or provider, be certain to book the service through them each and every time. Planners spend a lot of time and money researching, finding and vetting quality providers. Booking someone directly takes advantage of the situation and may jeopardize the vendor's contract with the planner. This is especially true when dealing with entertainment.

While it may appear to be cheaper to go direct that isn't always the case. Planners and agents often receive volume discount rates that are not available to everyone. Therefore, even after paying a management fee or commission to the planner the total amount may still be the same as if you booked directly. Even if this isn't the case, the total amount spent may not be much more than a direct booking rate once the value of one's time is factored in. Time is money and if using a third party saves time then it may be the most economical choice in the long run.

And if a vendor is approached by a client who wants to "cut out the middleman" and book directly, they should watch out! If the client does not respect their planner's time and creativity, chances are they will treat others with the same lack of respect.

In this situation, the vendor should let the client know that their business is valuable, but they must book through the planner who originally referred them. This will protect any long term, repeat business from the planner and maintain the vendor's reputation as a professional and honest provider.

Taking Advantage of Vendors

Especially in this economy, everyone needs the best deal they can get, therefore many clients must request multiple bids, special discounted pricing and complimentary services. Special discounted pricing is generally an accepted practice in this industry for clients who bring high volume, off-season or repeat business. It is fair to request discounted rates and other concessions from a frequently utilized vendor, or if the event is taking place during a slow time (mid-week, off season, etc.) However, demanding that a one time vendor slashes rates drastically or dangling "future business" in order to gain discounts is a sticky situation. If one can contract that future business at the same time it is reasonable to request some discounts. But if the future business is hypothetical, it isn't fair to use it to negotiate volume pricing. Try to insure that the situation is a win-win for everyone by working with quality vendors who will work with you to reduce costs while still making the event profitable for everyone.

The increased presence of "strategic buying" and "purchasing" departments has caused a rise in the number of planners who are required to obtain multiple bids for a service. If required to request multiple bids try to truly consider each company's proposal and give them a fair shot at the business, If possible request only their standard pricing and information for due diligence purposes rather than requesting a detailed, customized quote - especially if there is no real intention of using their services. Nothing stings more than staying up all night to create a customized bid that just ends up unread in someone's recycling bin. Respect a vendor's time and they'll respect your business more; and also be willing to stay up all night for you when you really need it.

Trash Talking the Competition

Momma said it best: "If you can't say something nice don't say anything at all". Trash talking the competition reflects badly on anyone - and can damage relationships in this tightly knit industry. It is one thing to educate clients on "what sets you apart from the competition"; but referring directly to a competitor, insulting them or spreading negative gossip is counterproductive. Plus - the company you trash today may be the company you need a job from tomorrow.

It's easy to find oneself in an ethical gray area, and we will all make mistakes from time to time. As long as everyone strives to create win-win situations for themselves, vendors and clients a lot of hassle can be avoided.

By remembering another of Momma's sayings: "Always treat others the way you would like to be treated" we will all be less likely to cross the line.

Design Board Competition Winners!

2010-10-05T07:12:00.000-07:00

We would first like to say thank you to all the planners and designers who submitted boards:

Julian Leaver CWP

Joy Cook

Melanie Goodwin DMCP

Amanda Jameson

Yvette Audrain CPCE, CSEP

Marla Watson-Werst CSEP, CTA

Dana Carroll CWC

Stacey Murdoch

Howard Eckhart CSEP, TMF

We had two categories and two amazing winners!

Sasha Souza selected her favorite and awarded Julian Leaver CWP with that award of the evening

The crowd voted and selected Howard Eckhart, CSEP, TMF.

Congratulations to both of you and thank you again to all of our participants!

Partyfest Date Announced!

2010-09-21T07:36:00.000-07:00

PARTYFEST Extravaganza is Back at Dallas Market Hall, January 12th.

The 23rd Annual Partyfest Exhibition and Tradeshow is a spectacular one-day event showcasing over 200 of D/FW’s Top Party & Event Suppliers. For additional information visit http://applauseproductions.com/partyfest-tradeshow

Date: Wednesday, January 12th, 2011

Time: 10am-11am Exhibitor Orientation/Networking, 11am-4pm Tradeshow Hours, 11am-4pm Silent Auction benefitting YMCA, 12am-3pm Educational Seminars

Place: Dallas Market Hall – Dallas , TX 2200 N. Stemmons Frwy. (I35) at Market Center Blvd.

Recycle your old cell phones for the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.

2010-09-15T07:36:00.000-07:00

ISES Dallas is partnering with Ultimate Ventures to collect

old cellphones which will be recycled. For each cell phone received

a monetary donation will be made to the

Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.

We will be collecting old phones at the September 20th Program at the Hilton Anatole.

If you are unable to join us at the meeting please,

contact Ultimate Ventures at 972.732.8433 to make other arrangements.

Need Another Reason to Recycle Your Old Cell Phone?

It Helps the Environment!

Improper disposal of cell phones is a serious threat to our environment. Every cell phone contains no less that
eight hazardous materials, and disposing them in a landfill allows these substances to leach into groundwater and soil. In fact, just one cell phone can pollute up to 35,000 gallons of water. In 2010 alone, more than 130 million cell phones will be discarded. Through this program, old cell phones are given new life; they are refurbished and made available to others in need.

Brian Acheson CSEP joins The Special Event Company as Director of Operations

2010-09-07T06:15:00.000-07:00

The Special Event Company (TSEC), based in Research Triangle Park, NC is delighted to announce the appointment of event industry leader, Brian Acheson CSEP, as a Company Director, overseeing event operations and production.

Brian joins the company today from Dallas, TX, where he has developed a strong client base through VIP Events, which will continue to operate under The Special Event Company umbrella.

Brian has over 25 years event experience, producing major award winning programs throughout the USA, and will oversee TSEC’s event management team in day-to-day operations.

His standing in the event community is reinforced by his previous positions as an 8 year Officer of the industry non-profit SEARCH Foundation and Dallas President of the International Special Events Society (ISES). He currently serves as the ISES International Secretary.

CEO Sally Webb, CSEP stated “We are delighted to have Brian join as a full time member of our team after working as a project manager with us for the past few years. His knowledge and experience will be a great asset to our company, securing us even more as one of the region’s leading meetings and events producer.”

Acheson stated, “Joining the expanding organization of The Special Event Company as a Company Director is a great fit for VIP Events, and enables me to bring my production and logistics expertise to TSEC, while providing greater resources for our current client base.”

Brian has moved from Dallas with his wife, Raye-Dawn who is Regional Vice President of the ISES Southeast Region, and their son, Jordan.

The Annual General Meeting held at ISES Eventworld!

2010-08-30T20:15:00.000-07:00

At this year’s general meeting where The ISES Spirit of Excellence awards program takes place, chapters and members from all over the world were acknowledged for their extraordinary efforts, performance, and outstanding contributions to the association. Many awards were given out on this day, but we were most proud of our neighbors from the New Orleans Chapter for winning the Chapter Membership Retention Award. Many of us who have been around long enough remember going to New Orleans to help get their chapter going, and how, since then we have all become very close friends. It’s always a joy to see them on an International level like Eventworld, and it’s even sweeter to see this chapter grow and excel after all the city has been through. Other highlights were the Austin Chapter from right down the road winning for Special Projects. The same award your Dallas Chapter won last year. Thanks Austin, for keeping it in the Great State of Texas. This year’s region of the year was won by the Northeast Region, an honor held by our Southeast Region the year before.

This years leadership Awards were given to Andy Callin for Volunteer of the Year, Zanine Adams and Richard Foulkes received the Mettle Attitude which is given to the ISES volunteer who is always willing to help and who gets the job done even under trying circumstances, and Dennis J. Telischak, CSEP was presented Robert J. Graves award for striving and reaching new heights, with the vision to see past the obstacles and the determination never to look back. This year the award was extra special as Robert J. Graves was on hand to present the award.

Each year the big award is the Chapter of the Year Award which went to Minneapolis – St. Paul Chapter. It is designed to recognize the ISES chapter each year that exemplifies outstanding achievement in the key areas of chapter management, activities, and membership growth. This chapter symbolizes the excellence to which other chapters may aspire. The judging is based upon: Communications, Special Projects, Chapter Administration, Member Retention, Chapter Growth, CSEP Enrollments, CSEP exam participants, Programming and Education.

For a complete list of he ISES Spirit of Excellence awards winners go to: http://www.ises.com/portals/0/pdfs/SOE_and_AGM_Award_Winners_List_2010.pdf

Get involved in helping our chapter win Spirit of Excellence awards by contacting Melanie Goodwin, Director of SOE’s at: Melanie@uvdmc.com

Brooks Kendall

ISES Dallas Past President

Program RFP

2010-08-23T18:23:00.000-07:00

We are looking for vendors to sponsor our bi-monthly Educational Programs, Power Lunches and Master Series. Sponsors have the opportunity to showcase their services at ISES events! Each sponsor will have their logo appear on the invitations that are sent to the entire membership as well as on the ISES Dallas website and be acknowledged during the program. Priority is given to ISES members, but is not required. Please contact Michael Cheever at Programs@isesdallas.com with any questions.

Deadline for submissions is Friday, September 3, 2010. This RFP form will also be available on the weekly Byte newsletter for future submissions if you are unable to commit at this time.

The Monday evening Educational Programs have attendance from 70 to 120 guests. Power Lunches and Master Series are generally less than 50 people. Please be as flexible as possible in checking dates you are available and let us know the full range of services you offer. Additional space is provided in order for you to make comments.

Make sure to look at the Miscellaneous option for opportunities to donate raffle prizes and silent auction items (benefiting the Linda Thornton CSEP Scholarship Fund).

Thanks for your support of the ISES Dallas Chapter and we look forward to a year full of successful Educational Programs!

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/DK3SHYB

NACE DFW Superhero Fundraiser 2010

2010-08-23T18:21:00.001-07:00

ISES Dallas is sponsoring a table at the NACE Superhero Fundraiser 2010, please help us support this great cause!

The National Association of Catering Executives (NACE) Dallas / Fort Worth Chapter is hosting its annual fundraiser on Wednesday, September 1, 2010 at Union Station. Kimberly Schlegel Whitman will be the guest emcee and judge for this year’s fundraiser and tabletop competition. In addition to the tabletop competition, there will be food, entertainment, and a silent auction. Funds from this event will benefit Heroes for Children, the Foundation of NACE and the DFW chapter’s educational programming.

I would like to extend this invitation for you to attend this year's event. It is only $50/person to attend, and all you have to do is click on the link below to register!

http://guest.cvent.com/d/ydqf8z/1Q

Thank you in advance for your support and I hope to see you on September 1st! And don't forget to pass on to anyone else that you think should not miss out on this wonderful event! We’d love to have ISES’ support especially since you have a table. Thank you!

For more information about NACE & the fundraising event, you can visit our website at www.dfwnace.com <http://www.dfwnace.com> or our Facebook at www.facebook/dfwnacefundraiser <http://www.facebook/dfwnacefundraiser>
For more information about this year's beneficiary, Heroes for Children, please visit their website at www.heroesforchildren.com <http://www.heroesforchildren.com>

Are you a member of ISES? If not....why not?

2010-08-17T07:26:00.001-07:00

By Jason Logan

President-Elect, ISES Orlando

As the new year of ISES begins, our chapter is faced with new opportunities, but also considerable challenges. The biggest challenge we face right now is membership retention. I don’t believe that this problem solely belongs to ISES Orlando. It seems to be a recurring challenge for many other association chapters as well.

Looking back over the past couple of years, I tried to figure out what the overarching factor was in why our chapter membership numbers have been decreasing. While the economy is an obvious reason for many event professionals to leave their memberships behind, I wanted to dig deeper and look at our own chapter.

For the past 3 years, our board of directors has conducted the “No Member Left Behind” survey to see how we could best serve the membership. We heard what the membership was saying and we tried to implement their needs and wants into our chapter meetings. Education and networking were the two most popular requests as a result of our survey last year. So, our programs and education team worked hard to deliver an equal portion of both education and networking in our programming.

Problem solved? Hardly.

While we were paying attention and giving our members what they want, it seems to have not created the overall impact that we were hoping for: to keep existing members and to gain new ones.

I began to dig even deeper into the situation. I asked leaders of other ISES chapters what they were noticing in their own memberships. I read articles about membership attrition and the reasons why people join, and then leave organizations. One of the articles that I came across was a blog post from Jeffery Saltzman. He seemed to have a lead on the subject. Here is an excerpt from his blog…

The notion that people join organizations and leave bosses tends to be an overly simplistic depiction of the complexities of why people join and leave organizations. After years and years of research and literally hundreds of articles and books published on the topic, there is no mystery regarding what people around the world want out of a job experience or a career. And while you can spend your time searching and highlighting the minutia that indicates differences, perhaps driven by your research design, the bottom line is that people at work, humans, are more the same than we are different, and I don’t care if we are talking about generational differences, gender, ethnicity or perceived geographic differences. And while there are as many ways to state it as there are researchers to describe it, the fundamental underlying characteristics of what people want include:

- A clear and compelling message or reason regarding what the organization is about, why it exists, what it stands for, what it hopes to accomplish and knowledge of how each individual person within it can support it in a meaningful fashion. In other words, give me a compelling reason for belonging; make it desirable for me to join up.

- Performance enablement – providing individuals within the organization what’s needed to accomplish their tasks in a way that creates pride. Align those tasks to the compelling message. In other words, make me feel like what I do is important in the organization’s mission. Additionally important to enablement is:

- Working for a management team that is effective, trustworthy, ethical (warning: people’s definition of ethics is dependent on their role in the organization), makes individuals feel valued and accepted, and puts sensible business processes in place, positioning the organization well within its markets and industry, whatever those may be.

- Create a sense of future – give me compelling reasons to stick around such as:

· Fair and respectful treatment – the equity equation – you get out what you consider to be fair for what you put in, covering pay, benefits, recognition, rewards and advancement as well as being treated in a respectful and dignified fashion

· The ability to stay current in your skills and to develop new skills.

I know that each event professional sits down at the end of the year and analyzes his or her expenses and determines what stays and what goes. That is part of being a responsible business owner. The question of how much your membership brings you value is surely part of the analysis. But the true value of your ISES membership is what you put into the organization.

While attending EventWorld a few years ago, one of the attendees made a statement that has remained with me ever since. It occurred during a discussion between two very well respected event professionals. They were talking about the economy and how it had affected their business over the past year. One of them said that he might not be able to afford to renew membership in the coming year. The conversation volleyed back and forth for a few minutes. The other professional made the final statement by saying…”You say you may not be able to afford your membership this year… well I am in the same boat as you are, and I can’t afford not to have my membership”.

This struck me right between the eyes. That statement was so true for me as well. I am a small business owner and I struggle just like anyone else. I thought about the $399.00 a year that I spend on my membership. I thought about the $420.00 I spend annually on monthly meetings, plus all of the other expenses I put forth to attend industry conferences. I thought about the countless hours I dedicate to this chapter by being on the board of directors, and thought, man that is a lot of money that could go back into the bottom line. I started to agree with the guy who was debating on not renewing. But then, I started to think about what this chapter is about, and what this organization is all about…

Vision

Dedicated and Educated to Deliver Creative Excellence and Professionalism in Special Events.

Mission

The Mission of ISES is to educate, advance and promote the special events industry and its network of professionals along with related industries.

To that end, we strive to…

- Uphold the integrity of the special events profession to the general public through our "Principles of Professional Conduct and Ethics"

- Acquire and disseminate useful business information

- Foster a spirit of cooperation among its members and other special events professionals, and…

- Cultivate high standards of business practices.

There it was. Nowhere did it say I was guaranteed business from other ISES members. Nowhere does it say that my market share would increase due to my membership. What it does say in a nutshell, is that I will be a better Special Event Professional and I will do my job ethically and with integrity.

Some people may not think that is enough to join an organization like ISES, but membership does have its privileges. Here are just some of the things you get from becoming an ISES member…

Membership in ISES will entitle you to member benefits and Internet access to ISES resources that non-members don't get.

Chapter Membership

· Professional Development and Education

· Subscription to Special Events Magazine

· Unlimited use of ISES' Online, Downloadable Membership Directory

· A listing on ISES' website and website content dedicated to the consumer to find you!

· Special Member Discounts and Access to Affinity Programs

The Affinity Programs include discounts from these companies:

· The Wall Street Journal

· Staples

· Shaker Group Inc.

· Quicken

· Microsoft Office Live Small Business

· Franklin Covey

· FedEx Kinko’s

· Budget Truck Rental

· Alamo

· Adobe

The perks listed above are all great reasons to join ISES. We have all heard the stories of how the FedEx Kinko’s discounts basically pays for most member’s memberships for the year. It truly is that great of a discount!

But what it all boils down to for me is this: my company would not be where it is today if it hadn’t been for my involvement in ISES. The people that I have met, the contacts that I have made locally and out of state, and the places I had the opportunity to perform have all come because of my affiliation with this prestigious and valuable organization.

Whether you are an existing member, new member, or someone sitting on the fence, I challenge you to do this. Give ISES a try and get involved. Join a committee. Become a chapter leader. Write an article for our newsletter. Network at our meetings. Sponsor a product or service for one of our events. These are the best ways to get what you are looking for out of your ISES Membership. I hope to see your name on our membership roster this year!

August Power Lunch. Design 101: It's so much more than floral

2010-08-17T06:31:00.000-07:00


click here to register

My New Extended Family by Ashley Holder

2010-08-17T06:21:00.001-07:00

Upon entering into this industry just over five years ago, I realized that it was pure insanity. Our clients are demanding, the hours are long and hard; the physical, mental and emotional toll from some events is completely draining. I have found myself trying to explain to people about my job, my industry and what it’s like and yet they never quite get it.

Eventworld is like being with your family who understand you. They know the history; they know the ups and downs and the pressures involved. We are able to come together to not only support each other in times of hardship through our own personal efforts but through organizations like SEARCH. SEARCH is the foundation that assists event professionals in times of personal and professional crisis (such as the hardships felt by professionals in New Orleans after Katrina, or someone who has suffered a severe illness and needs help with medical bills) Recently they have expanded their efforts to include educating event professionals by giving scholarships to attend conferences like Eventworld. We celebrate each others achievements through award programs like the Esprits.

Sometimes we as professionals come across problems and we try to fix it on our own because feel embarrassed that we don’t know the answers. Eventworld allows you to talk to other salespeople, production managers, planners and business owners, who at some point, have been in the same situation. Why go through things alone and try to reinvent the wheel? These people aren’t competitors; they are colleagues and sounding boards.

If you were unable to go to Eventworld this year, try to make The Special Event or Eventworld next year. Between conferences, you can get the same feedback and support through the ISES Community. It’s a little bit like Facebook for ISES members where we can talk about our businesses, events and new ideas with other event professionals.

I said last week to a few people, it was like pushing the reset button to my soul and the more I look back on the experience the more I realize how true that that statement is for me.

The ISES Beat by Vince Corona

2010-08-17T06:20:00.000-07:00

Hairspray proclaims “You can’t stop the beat,” and when ISES members from around the world met in Baltimore for Eventworld 2010, you couldn’t stop the ISES beat; not that you would ever want to! What a week of learning, meeting and fun!

As this was my first Eventworld, I went in with the anticipation of learning something different and meeting new people. Wow, did I ever underestimate my experience. The learning journey led me to some wonderful paths. Educational sessions, led by ISES members and industry experts, offered a variety of topics, which were divided on four tracks:

1. Business Applications: Sessions concentrated on the business owner and how to effectively run a business

2. Topical Trends Track: Topics concentrated on how become more effective event professionals with sessions ranging from Social Media to Entertainment to Design Trends

3. Event Practices: Focused on practical tools ranging from handling RFP’s to Building Relations with Non-Profit Clients

4. Event Boot Camp: Sessions geared toward the emerging Special Event Professional

The seminars were great, but the added bonuses were the discussions after the sessions with your new “ISES Friends” and how the topics related to your business or Chapter. Some of the best ideas came from others as they shared their experiences.

One thing particularly interesting was the contrast between the new ways of doing business and the old. Social Media ranked not one, but two seminars which helped to bring into focus not only what Social Media can do for your company but what the huge impact it is having on how your customers are doing business. The Social Media sessions were followed with the ancient art of Creative Writing and the importance of this craft when submitting proposals. It really demonstrated that no matter how much our business practices are changing, some things are important to maintain; such as, writing the perfect opening paragraph in a proposal designed to grab your client’s attention and hold onto it until the winning the bid!

The Eventworld experience certainly wasn’t limited to the formal sessions inside meeting rooms. The learning and friendships grew at evening events which allowed the social sides in all of us to come out. Whether it was the formal ISES Connections Lunge or informal gatherings with new friends, the connections to others and their experiences were amazing. Being able to connect and follow professionals across the world was a bonus beneficial both as an ISES Board Member and in my own business.

My Eventworld experience can be best summed up with “me and us”. The me part was how much I learned that will make me a more effective professional. The us part included all the ideas I picked up that will make the ISES Dallas a better chapter. If this is not something you have experienced before, I would highly recommend that you find your way connect to this great ISES (event)World next year in St. Louis!

A Multidisciplinary Educational Focus by Jim Monroe, CSE

2010-08-17T06:17:00.001-07:00

(Jim is a new member of the ISES Educational Council)

Imagine going into a seminar and listening to a master designer discuss her discipline.

Now imagine going into a seminar and listening to a master designer discuss her discipline and how it relates to your discipline. That is how Paul Creighton, CSEP, Director of the ISES Education Council, envisions future educational offerings throughout ISES.

At our recent Eventworld and the preceding leadership sessions the ISES Board of Governors continued to make good on their 2008/2009 commitment to focus on education. Education has been clearly established as critical to the future of ISES and the Education Council has determined that the interrelationship between our many disciplines is critical to our body of knowledge.

The educational offerings at the 2010 Eventworld were designed to begin this process, aiming to address various topics at the intermediate or advanced level while offering an emersion experience “Boot Camp” for event professionals with 3 years or less experience.

My personal experience with the classes found that 75 % achieved the goal of providing advanced level information useful to the master level participant. For example, in the business track that I followed there was valuable information regarding current special event insurance offerings and equally valuable legal advice regarding structuring event contracts. This is the first time in the eight event conferences which I have attended that there were this many master level presentations. Most conference presentations are given at the 101 level, as there is a huge turnover each year with the largest number of attendees being 1^st or 2^nd timers.

Perhaps the most interesting, and certainly two of the best attended, sessions were the professional roundtables. One, “Birds of a Feather” was made up of special event professionals from the same disciplines discussing current issues, trends and best practices for 1 1/.2 hours. The other “Topic Focused” was made up of 30 tables labeled with different issues, topics or challenges; for example: “Design Trends”, “Stretching the Dollar” and “Strategic Relationships.” Each attendee was allowed 25 minutes at each of three topic tables of their choosing. This was perhaps the session that was most true to the goal of multidisciplinary interaction. I found the interplay informative and inspiring.

The goals of the Education Council may not have been met equally well across the board, but in general the positive impact of those goals made this one of the best educational offerings in my experience at the conferences I have attended.

In closing I have to mention that having been away from the community of event conferences for a couple of years I was reminded of how invigorating the experience is. Sharing some concentrated time together with fellow professionals from multiple disciplines and different places inspires creativity and boosts one’s energy level!

September Program "A Wedding for All Seasons: An Evening with Sasha Souza"

2010-08-11T06:30:00.000-07:00

Attention:

There have been changes to the rooms.

The VIP Reception will be in Nana.

Cocktail Reception will be in the foyer in front of Wedgwood

Program will be in Wedgwood.

Also check out the ISES Design Board Competition.

Get Involved! Get on a Committee!

2010-08-09T18:36:00.000-07:00

Look through the committees and find one that works for you. If you want more information or you want to sign up email the person listed.

Membership Committee is responsible for developing and cultivating value added member only benefits. It is also responsible for encouraging event professionals to join ISES and current members to get involved and retain their membership.
Contact Justin Atkinson for more information.

Communications Committee is responsible for the marketing, advertising and chapter communications, including newsletters, social media, web and print advertising. The committee also is responsible for spreading the word about ISES throughout the event industry and to the general public, the website, and more.
Contact Ashley Holder for more information.

Programs is responsible for the logistics of each of the meetings that ISES Dallas presents, including locations, rentals, caterers, décor, and more.
Contact Vince Corona for more information.

Education is responsible for developing the education for each of the meetings that ISES Dallas presents that will appeal to the full membership. The committee works to educate members in business matters, event trends and issues as well as educates the members based on the Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP) test.
Contact Kristen Dickson CSEP for more information.

Spirit of Excellence (SOE) Committee is responsible for the ISES Dallas entries to for the SOE's. The Chapter Spirit of Excellence Awards recognize ISES chapters that excel in chapter communications, administration, membership retention, and growth programs.
Contact Melanie Goodwin for more information.

Philanthropy Committee is responsible of finding ways for ISES Dallas to give back to the community at large. The committee is responsible to find causes to raise money for during chapter meetings as well as causes for the Special Projects Committee to partner with.
Contact Glenn Roush for more information.

Special Projects Committee is responsible for planning and executing special projects for ISES Dallas. Special projects include but aren't limited to Texas Star Awards, Partyfest, the programs and projects that ISES Dallas does as part of their philanthropic efforts.

Contact Tamara Harris CWC for more information.

Finance Committee is responsible for maintaining the ISES Dallas financial records.
Contact Nick Mallouf for more information.

ESPRIT Award Winners!

2010-08-09T18:27:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to all the winners at the ESPRIT awards.

Special congratulations to the ISES Dallas members who received an ESPRIT.

2010 ISES Best Wedding Budget Under $75,000 USD winner

Tara Wilson of Tara Wilson Events for the "Modern French Whimsy"

2010 ISES Best Technical Production

Hyacinth Belcher CSEP of Onstage Systems for the "George Strait Concert"

2010 ISES Best Event with a Legacy

Chris Arrendondo & Team of Eclipse Entertainment, LLC for "The Legendary Block Party!"

Design Board Competition

2010-07-21T09:06:00.000-07:00

2 Entry Categories

Accomplishment in Design: Showcases the wedding design of a previous wedding you have completed or a wedding that is currently under construction.
Dream Design: Using one of the ballrooms at the Hilton Anatole hotel as your inspiration, design a dream wedding with an unlimited budget! Ballroom pictures can be found here http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/DFWANHH-Hilton-Anatole-Texas/photoGallery.do http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/DFWANHH-Hilton-Anatole-Texas/photoGallery.do

Rules & Regulations:

Design boards should be 1 piece and mounted on foam board or a similar sturdy material
Boards will be displayed on standard floor easels, and should be no larger than 2' x 3'
Boards may contain pictures, swatches, print samples, etc. "Dream Design" boards should incorporate a picture of the respective Hilton Anatole ballroom.
Any wedding professional may enter - coordinators, florists, rental companies, lighting companies, etc.
Please give you wedding design a title and display that on your board (i.e. "Vintage Glamour", "Country Chic", "Jack and Jill's Wedding", etc.)
You may enter your board with other vendors as a "team"; however, the prize that is given will only be for one person. Payment for "Team" entry must come through one person as well.
All design board entry forms must be completed by September 16th, 2010. No late or walk up registration will be accepted.
All design boards must be delivered to the Hilton Anatole and checked in at the registration table in Atrium 1 no later than 4:30pm on September 20th.
Your name, your company name and the names of your vendors may NOT appear anywhere on the Design Board, or they WILL be disqualified. After the winners are announced, guests will return to the Atrium, where the names of the vendors associated with each board will be revealed.

If you have questions please contact the event chair, Meredith Commender meredith@significanteventsoftexas.com .

ISES Dallas ICE Pack

2010-07-20T16:25:00.000-07:00

Benefits:

One payment- easy for accounting and check requests
10% discount for bulk purchase

ICE PACK Regular $200 ($225 value)
5 remaining Bi- monthly educational meetings

ICE PACK Deluxe $450 ($500 value)
5 remaining Bi- monthly educational meetings
2 masters series
4 power lunches
1 Texas Star Awards ticket

RAFFLE PACK $50 ($80 value)
12 raffles for the price of 10 for
each remaining Bi- monthly educational meeting

Benefits:

One payment- easy for accounting and check requests
10% discount for bulk purchase

Support ISES by being an active member

http://www.regonline.com/ice_pack

Congratulations to our 2010-2011 ISES Dallas Board

2010-07-16T07:53:00.000-07:00

Last night was the ISES Dallas Board Installment. We would like to congratulate our 2010-2011 Board.

President

Yvette Audrain, CSEP, CPCE of Premier Special Events

President-Elect

Marla Watson Werst, CTA, CSEP of PeaPod Group

Past President

Raye-Dawn Acheson CSEP of VIP Events, Inc.

VP of Membership

Justin Atkinson of Trinity Event Staffing

VP of Education & Programs

Michael Cheever of Sixth Floor Museum

VP of Communication

Ashley Holder of Ducky-Bob's Event Specialists

Director of Programs

Vince Corona of Creative Cuisine

Director of Education

Kristen Dickson CSEP of GEORGE Catering

Director of Finances

Nick Mallouf of Mallouf Photography

Director of Proceedings

Meredith Commander of Significant Events of Texas

Director of SOE

Melanie Goodwin of Ultimate Ventures

Director of Philanthropy

Glenn Roush of Roush Weddings

Director of Special Projects

Tamara Martin Harris CWC of Eventfully U

ISES Dallas Chapter Award Nominees Announced!

2010-07-12T14:02:00.001-07:00

2009/2010 Awards Banquet

Please join us on Thursday, July 15, 2010, at Union Station to announce our winners for 2009/2010. The nominees are:

Facility of the Year:

· Frontiers of Flight – September 2009

· Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center – March 2010

· Texas Discovery Gardens – May 2010

Caterer of the Year:

· Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek – September 2009

· George Catering – November 2009

· Wolfgang Puck – March 2010

Program of the Year:

· Event Security and Managing Risk – September 2009

· Goals and Objectives: Refine & Design – November 2009

· Sales & Marketing 2010- March 2010

And help us honor the 2009/2010 Spirit Award winner who was selected by membership for their significant contributions to the Chapter over the past year and has been a member for less than two years.

And the 2009/2010 Pinnacle Award winner who exemplifies the goals and values of ISES. This is the highest honor our ISES Dallas Chapter can award to a member.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

Eventworld Early Bird Deadline Extended through July 9th!

2010-07-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

There's still time to register for Eventworld 2010 for the early bird price! Don't miss your chance!

Click here to register now!

Southeast Regional Leadership Conference

2010-06-23T07:21:00.000-07:00

Join us for the ISES Southeast Regional Leadership Conference to be held July 18-19, 2010 at the Hilton Americas-Houston Hotel. Spend a weekend in Space City for fabulous leadership training sessions and the chance to network with other ISES members from all over the Southeast region. All incoming 2010-2011 ISES Chapter Board of Directors are invited to attend this two-day conference. We look forwarding to seeing you there!

To register click here!

Conference Schedule (subject to change):

Sunday, July 18, 2010

11:45am - 12:30pm - Lunch

12:30pm - 12:45pm - Introductions and housekeeping information

1:00pm - 6:00pm – Governance Training 5 hours

6:00pm - Adjourn

6:30pm - 9:30pm - ISES Group Dinner at the House of Blues (optional)

Monday, July 19, 2010

8:30am – 11:15am - Operations Training

11:15am - 1:15pm – Advanced Communication Skills Training, provided by ComedySportz Houston

1:15pm – 2:00pm - Lunch

2:00pm - 3:00pm - Round Tables

Registration Fees:
Conference Sessions & Lunches: $50 per person
Sunday Night Dinner: $50 per person

Please Note: Cancellations submitted in writing before July 1, 2010 will incur a 50% cancellation fee. No refunds will be issued after July 1, 2010. Substitutions will be issued without additional fees.

Congratulations to our ISES Dallas Esprit Nominees!!!

2010-06-21T14:48:00.000-07:00

2010 ISES Best Event with a Legacy

The Legendary Block Party!

Chris Arrendondo of Eclipse Entertainment, LLC & Chris Arrendondo & Team Eclipse Entertainment, LLC

2010 ISES Best Wedding Budget Under $75,000 USD

Modern French Whimsy

Tara Wilson of Tara Wilson Events

2010 ISES Best Technical Production

George Strait Concert

Hyacinth Belcher, CSEP of Onstage Systems

2010 ISES Best Entertainment Production Budget over $75,000 USD

HOT HOT HOT Americas!

Kristjan Gavin of In Good Company Events, Inc

and

Debbie Meyers, CSEP of BRAVO! Productions Entertainment, Inc.

2010 Best ISES Team Effort Budget $75,000-$200,000 USD

Step Up for Lance

Yvette Audrain, CPCE, CSEP of Premier Special Events

Ryan Kelley of Lite Dallas (now Beyond LD)

Jason Logan of LoganMania Music & Madness

Marla Watson-Werst, CSEP of PeaPod Group

2010 Best ISES Team Effort Budget over $200,000 USD

An Evening of Bond

Brian Acheson, CSEP of VIP Events, Inc.

Chris Arrendondo of Eclipse Entertainment, LLC

Dean Faulkner of LiveWire Special Events, Inc.

Steve Kemble of Steve Kemble Event Design

Marshall Leak of Diversified Media Group, LLC

Ken Thornton of Fun Factory Events

Marla Watson-Werst, CSEP of PeaPod Group

Congratulations to all of you! All of us here at ISES Dallas wish you the best of luck!

Bring home the Esprits to Dallas!!

CONGRATULATIONS!!

2010-06-16T07:02:00.000-07:00

Congratulations are in order for a couple of our members.

Charlotte Gannon

is now Director of Catering for
Wolfgang Puck Catering at the Nasher Sculpture Center in Dallas,
and has also been given additional responsibilities as
Corporate Sales Manager at Wolfgang Puck Catering at Union Station in Dallas, TX.

Ashley Blumberg
is now employed with the A merican Heart Association as a
Development Specialist focusing on Go Red For Women.

Why Attend Eventworld?

2010-06-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

Network with Peers

Meet with professionals from around the globe
Create a resource list of individuals who can be a resource when working out of your city
Share ideas and broaden your base knowledge
Make contacts as this will make your company more known throughout the industry.

Gain Knowledge

Attend sessions that will increase your base knowledge and open doors to new experiences that you can share with the rest of your staff
Learn about the latest trends through the various keynote and panel discussions with industry leaders
Share your knowledge on the latest areas of growth within the industry, as well as information about their events.

Grow Professionally

Discover new tools, solutions and trends that will improve and prepare your business for the next level in special events.
Obtain points toward your CSEP or other industry certifications for attendance and participation in classes

Obtain Lead Referrals

Generate leads while you have plenty of face time with your potential clients
Grow your business through contacts met in a personal setting

Brand Your Business

Opportunity to showcase your company through sponsorship
Position your company’s message in front of all the attendees

Can you afford NOT to attend?
Click here to go to the Eventworld website!

Join us for our May Power Lunch!

2010-04-28T09:53:00.001-07:00

Click here to register!

April Power Lunch Recap

2010-04-16T09:50:00.000-07:00

ISES Dallas’ April 14^th Power Lunch Re-cap

By Melanie Goodwin; Program Manager at Ultimate Ventures

“Hear No Evil, See No Evil”

Last Wednesday Hyacinth Belcher (President of Onstage Systems) presented ISES Dallas members and guests with a wealth of information on audio, visual and technical production. After enjoying a delicious boxed lunch from Gil’s Elegant Catering (the chicken salad was heavenly!) we all grabbed a seat in the Onstage warehouse for an informal educational session on the essential – though sometimes underappreciated – technical aspects of events.

I’m not a “techie” by any means; but I still found the information she delivered accessible, interesting and very applicable for a large variety of event professionals. Here are a few of the more interesting bits of knowledge Hyacinth shared with us:

Share as many event details with your Technical Production company as possible so that they can give you an accurate, customized quote.

How many guests will be in attendance? Will they all be there at once or will the event be “on a flow”?
Where is the event? Is it indoors or outdoors? A ballroom, football field, warehouse or museum?
When is the event? Daytime or night time?
What is the theme/feel of the event?
Is there a stage? If so how big is it (height, width, depth and height of ceiling above the stage) and where will it be located?
Can you rig from the ceiling or does everything have to be ground supported?

All of this information seems obvious but is often overlooked by planners when requesting technical production quotes.

Don’t forget technical equipment and consoles/control stations when diagramming your event.

Speakers and amplifiers take up space and can block sight lines if not “flown” (hung) from the ceiling. Be sure to allow space for them on the stage or on separate sound wings and seat guests so that no one is stuck staring at a speaker stack all night.
Lighting and sound technicians usually need to be located in the center of the room so that they get a clear view of the stage and hear what the majority of your audience is hearing. (Fifty to one hundred and fifty feet from the stage is usually a good rule of thumb, depending on the size of the event space) If you stick the technical crew in a back corner they won’t be able to accurately judge volume and clarity during the event.
The further back you place the technical console the more equipment you need. Cables (aka “snakes”) must be used to connect the stage and equipment to the console and every cable must be covered for safety. The further your console is the more ugly cables you’ll have “snaking” their way across or around your beautiful event space!
If you put the cameramen in the back of the room you will need to rent a higher end camera with a stronger lens which can result in additional costs.
When planning outdoor events remember to include tents with side walls for protecting sensitive – and valuable - technical equipment. You can never be too careful! One drop of rain or giant gust of wind could derail your entire event.

Technical equipment may not be pretty – but it is essential for a successful event. If you must mask the equipment let your technical producer know. They can provide you with ideas for hiding equipment without affecting sound quality or equipment performance.

Great technical production can take an event from ordinary to extraordinary – but poorly planned or executed technical production can ruin even the most elaborate of events. Select a reputable company, share as much with them as possible and remember to work technical equipment into your plan and you’ll have an event that shines.

Texas Star Award Recipients 2010

2010-03-30T11:26:00.000-07:00

Best Event Produced for a Corporation or Association
$50,000-$100,000
“Something to Talk About”
Cindy Hartner, CSEP Ultimate Ventures

Best Event Produced for a Corporation or Association
over $100,000
“Annual Holiday Open House”
Sherry DeLaGarza KPMG, LLC
Lianne Pereira, CMP, CMM KPMG, LLC
Melissa Bailey KPMG, LLC
Margaret Willis KPMG, LLC

Best Multiple Day Incentive
“Texans in Baniff”
Chris Anyel The Event Company

Best Event Produced for a Wedding, Social Event or Private Individual

$500.00 and Under Per Person
“Step It Up for Lance”
Yvette Audrain, CPCE, CSEP Premier Special Events

Best Event Produced for a Wedding, Social Event or Private Individual

$500.01 and Over Per Person
“Peacocks and Bling”
Cindy Lo Red Velvet Events, Inc.

Best Event Design & Décor Under $35,000
“Dressing Up to Go Underground”
Chris Anyel The Event Company

Best Event Design & Décor Over $100,000
“A Celebration of Ancient Civilizations”
Jim Monroe, CMP, CSEP J Monroe Designs

Best Off Premise Catering Under $15,000
“Dallas Latin Showcase”
Geni Morin Creative Cuisine

Best Off Premise Catering $15,000.01-$35,000
Misty Ruger Creative Cuisine

Best Tabletop under $25,000
“NTX Opening”
Tamara Martin-Harris Eventfully U

Best Achievement in Rental Support
“Romance on the Ranch”
Dean Faulkner LiveWire Special Events

Best Entertainment Under $25,000
“Where in the World is Waynette?”
Debbie Meyers, CSEP Bravo! Entertainment Productions

Best Entertainment Over $25,000
“Hot Hot Hot Americas”
David Granger, CSEP Bravo! Entertainment Productions

Best Meeting for a Non-Profit Under $100,000
“Appreciation Event”
Loretta Morgan Carter Blood Care

Best Meeting for a Non-Profit Over $100,000
“Sounds of the Season”
Meredith Commender Significant Events of Texas

Best Corporate Meeting over $100,000
“Bazaarvoice Social Commerce Summit”
Cindy Lo Red Velvet Events, Inc.

Best Technical Production
“George Strait Concert”
Hyacinth Belcher, CSEP Onstage Systems

Best Photography
“NFL Experience”
Delores Townley Catch the Moment

Best Videography
“Legendary: The Fort Worth Block Party”
Marla Watson-Werst, CSEP, CTA PeaPod Group

Best Industry Team Effort $50,000-$100,000
“Step It Up for Lance”
Yvette Audrain CSEP, CPCE Premier Special Events
Marla Watson-Werst, CSEP, CTA PeaPod Group
Gary Peto Shag-Carpet Productions
Chris Smith Ivey Photography
Brooks Kendall KenRan Productions
Jennifer Burns Lite Dallas
Luana Stoutmeyer Encore Productions
Wendy Krispen Wendy Krispen Catering

Best Industry Team Effort over $100,000
“Hot Hot Hot Americas”
Kristjan Gavin and Team In Good Company Meetings and Events
Brian Acheson, CSEP VIP Events
Debbie Meyers, CSEP Bravo! Entertainment Production
Yvette Audrain, CSEP, CPCE Premier Special Events

'The 2010 Texas Star Awards Nominees'

2010-03-25T07:35:00.000-07:00

Click the link to find out who our amazing nominees are!

'The 2010 Texas Star Awards Nominees'