Event Designer Predictions: Top Trends in 2014

As 2014 quickly surfaced, event designers made their predictions for hot trends as well as tired ones. At ABCey, we love to keep ahead of the curve on emerging trends, especially in event design. Here are predictions from some top event designers based on three design elements: theme, props, and color palette.

LESLEE BELL

Leslee Bell, founder of Decor & More: Themes can truly set the tone for an event. Leslie says ‘Cirque’ and ‘Alice in Wonderland’ are themes that will remain popular in 2014. Stand-up receptions will continue to go for the club look, using colors such as grays and blacks to make the setting more enticing than the basic white on white. Circus is a theme that is predicted to be on its way out. As far as props go, Leslie believes the bolder the prop, the bigger the impact. Oversized props such as mirrors, moveable walls, and giant walk-through frames will add depth and drama. She also believes bold, tropical colors are in for the next year.

MATTHEW DAVID HOPKINS

Matthew David Hopkins from 360 Design Events: Aligned with Leslee’s predictions on color palettes, David believes bold colors are in, not only for 2014, but for the next few years. He says combining metallics is what’s hot for this year. A mix of gunmetal and gold or copper is in. What’s out: orange is a color that is fading, and won’t make an impact on your 2014 event. Metallic tableware and tinted glass will be found on tabletops at events in 2014. According to Matthew David, a neutral linen combined with a pop of color is “very now.” He also suggests to keep an eye out for cobalt glass, as it will be very prevalent over the next couple years.

EDGAR ZAMORA

Edgar Zamora from Revelry Event Designers: Mixtures of ‘trend’ and ‘Old World’ make unique themes for 2014 events. This theme can be executed by using wood, mirrored, and antique tables. This can create an unforgettable dining experience for 100 – 200 guests. Shabby chic is a theme that is tired, and will not be seen in 2014 events. According to Edgar, guests are looking for events that bring elements with legacy and history. Trending color palettes are basic whites with pops of lavenders and purples.

JAMES DOUGLAS

James Douglas from Shiraz Events: Rustic modern is a hot theme for 2014. This new trend is compiled of raw materials with wood finishes, and a color palette of black and silver. Mason jars, wood coffee tables, and vintage barn pendants can create a rustic setting with a modern twist. Black and gold decor is in, while pleated stage skirting is out. What’s up and coming? Furniture and various decor pieces with neon lining.

Themes, props, and color palettes are each important design elements that add to any event! What do you think of the 2014 predictions from these event designers? Do you have any predictions of your own? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!

ABCey’s Weekend Line-Up: 6.28.13-6.30.13

This weekend we are in celebration mode as we commemorate a landmark victory to the gay-rights movement striking down a federal law that denies benefits to same-sex married couples. Go Cali! Per usual, there are tons of great events happening all over San Francisco that you don’t want to miss, including SF Pride (what impeccable timing)! ABCey invites you to put your computer down and enjoy the weekend activities!

1. San Francisco LGBT Pride – June 29-30, 2013- Downtown and Castro Valley San Francisco, CA. -With over 200 parade contingents, 300 exhibitors, and more than 20 stages and venues, the San Francisco LGBT Pride Celebration and Parade is the largest LGBT gathering in the nation. This is a celebration that will go down in history because of recent marriage act that was passed early this week. “San Francisco Pride has been said to be one of the last remaining pride events that can truly be called a rite of passage.”

2. Pinot Days San Francisco 2013– Sunday June 30, 2pm-5pm-Fort Mason Center San Francisco, CA- Pinot Days celebrates the amazing noble grape in all its gloriously diverse styles, and this year’s offering is more broad and complete than ever. Over 140 artisan winemakers representing every domestic pinot noir region will pour the fruits of their craft, each sharing their unique interpretation of pinot noir and the stories of their winemaking. Drink, Laugh and enjoy this delicious wine festival in beautiful Fort Mason!

3. Treasure Island Flea Market, Summer Kick Off -June 29-30, 2013- Treasure Island Great Lawn San Francisco, CA-The Treasure Island Flea is the last weekend of the month year round and features hundreds of local crafters, makers, and collectors. This flea market is know for its live music and beautiful views of the Bay. Free Parking with $3 dollars admission and kids 12 and under are free!

4. Wine Tasting at San Francisco’s Winery-Friday, Jun 28 12:00p to 5:00p- Winery SF 200 California Ave, Bldg. 180 North San Francisco, CA -Enjoy wine tasting at The Winery SF in their stunning tasting room & event venue. SF winery brings the ultimate “California wine experience” to San Francisco allowing visitors to see the winemaking process first-hand and experience highly rated boutique wines from a team of top winemakers from Napa, Sonoma & beyond. Tastings start at $10. Group Tours, Tastings & Barrel Sampling Available.

5. Startup Founder Boot Camp– June 29, 2013 1pm to 5pm- Sandbox Suites 567 Sutter St San Francisco, CA. -Starting your own business? Why should you go in it alone when there are expert resources at your fingertips? If you are looking to learn from experts and get advice about your startup, look no further. Sandbox Suites has pulled together the best guys in the startup world to teach you what you need to know before you embark on the road to success. This workshop is for entrepreneurs, founders of startups or for anyone that is interested in learning successful business tips.

Let us know which events you’ll be attending! Please let us know in the comments or find us on Facebook or Twitter!

5 Creative Ways to use Social Media at your Next Event

People have been using social media to spread the word about their events for a while now, and ABCey thinks it’s time for a make-over! Follow our fun and effective tips that use technology to make your next event the very best it can be!

1. Facebook Invitations with a Twist | Creating a Facebook event is so blah. Spice it up with a picture of you and the event details and tag your friends! These pictures combine the personal and creative feel of a handmade invitation with the accessibility of social media.

2. Share What You Want | Using apps like the Scan & Add app from Gift Registry 360 allow you to update your gift registry at any time. If you see something you like, scan the barcode with your phone! The item will automatically appear on your registry and shared with your guests.

3. Use a Photo Booth that Tweets | Guests will have a blast with Keshot, a photo booth that uses an iPad for guests to sent their photos at your event to their personal social media accounts. You can also customize the photobooth background to your event’s specific needs, like adding a corporate logo. Everyone loves to share their photos online, so make it fun for them!

4. InstaContest | Have guests send their best photos of your live event to your event’s personal Instagram page. Your guests will vote with their “likes,” and the winner can receive a special party favor during the event! This is a great way to keep guests interested in the party and appreciate your beautiful decorations!

5. Tap a Thank-You | Instead of sending another e-card, use Felt, an iPad app that sends your hand-written cards to all your friends. Use the app to write or draw inside the card template and address the envelope. The card comes from the printer with your personal messages ready for delivery. This app is perfect for large events because it eliminates hand cramping after 500 thank-you notes!

How can you use social media for your next event? Let us know in a comment and on Facebook and Twitter!

Upgrading the Invitation

At ABCey, we’re obsessed with all things tech and digital. Yet few things compare to opening up your mailbox and seeing a little envelope with your hand-written name on it. Sending prospective guests a non-digital invitation sets your event apart from the rest in our digital world. Our advice for invitations is to make them thematic, bold, and personal. Try out these creative twists on the traditional invitation to amp up the buzz for your next event!

1. Make it Yummy | Channel Willy Wonka and give your guests a golden ticket to remember! Everyone loves to get a little something sweet, so try printing the event details on the wrapper of a candy bar or over a tin of cookies. Whatever goodies you choose, make sure they can stand the trip without damage.

2. Make it Useful | If you want people to remember your event far beyond its end, make an invitation that’s sure to stick around. This is a perfect idea for corporate or launch events to ensure your business, literally, becomes a household name! Think outside the pen and try a kitchen towel, candle, a mug, or a chip clip. Imagine any item you use daily and make it happen!

3. Make it Pop | Reading in 2D is so overrated. Make your invitees work a little with invitations you decode with 3D glasses! Using 3D is a fun way to amp up a traditional paper and envelope in the mail.

4. Make it Go | Make your next event a first-class affair with invitations for your favorite jet-setters. Even if your party isn’t a destination getaway, the same exotic feel can be achieved with luggage tags, tickets, hot air balloons, or train-themed cards and invitations.

5. Make it Open | This is one instance where thinking inside the box can be fun and surprising. Although giving away boxes full of goodies can get pretty pricy, there are ways to keep your invitations inexpensive and chic. Boxes in all shapes, sizes, and colors are easy to find for around a dollar a piece and can be stuffed with confetti or a little balloon. Using a box makes your invite seem like a special gift to your guests, and who doesn’t love receiving packages?

Do you have a creative twist on the paper invitation? Tell us in a comment below or on Facebook and Twitter!

Startup Monday: Sticky

Are you getting noticed? And by that we don’t mean your latest outfit. Your ad is competing for attention against publicity efforts by hundreds of different companies. Today at ABCey, we’re featuring Sticky, a startup that measures the effectiveness of ads by using special eye technology.

Sticky not only notifies advertisers about whether an ad was fully rendered and served but also whether or not the consumer actually saw the ad. Its selling point is being able to distinguish between viewable ads, which simply means has the opportunity to be seen, and verified impressions — ads that were most literally seen. Furthermore, Sticky can determine how much money needs to be spent in order to reach views by 1000 pairs of eyes and offers ad campaign recommendations to help you achieve your needed goal. Its objective, writes Sticky, is to improve the “digital planning and buying decisions on true branding performance.”

This could revolutionize how marketers and advertisers develop future content and strategies. What do you think? Could you “see” yourself utilizing Sticky’s services? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook & Twitter!

Tech Tuesday: Twitter Walls

Social media has clearly become an integral part of any big event. Live social media displays are a great way to energize the crowd, source user generated content, and encourage people to tweet and Instagram away. There are many options these days for displaying your audience’s tweets, and moderating those that may be inappropriate or brand damaging! Check out five great recommendations for Live Tweeting!

1. Wall of Tweets: Wall of Tweets offers many different functionalities – from a basic display of text messages to very interactive involvement of attendees in discussions, Q&As, and video and audio streams. Essentially, if it’s digital –it can be included in your Wall of Tweets experience. Price depends heavily on the type of the event, its duration and expected number of visitors.

2. Visible Tweets: Visible Tweets is a visualization of Twitter messages designed for display in public spaces. It is definitely more about the visual display of the individual Tweets rather than the display of collective Tweets. It’s not for every event but it could be the perfect tool for a specific type of event like an art show. Give Visible Tweets a try on their website.

3. Tweet Wall Pro: Tweet Wall Pro is great because it allows for automatic moderation which ban Tweets containing a list of inappropriate words or swear words and/or one or several users. You also have the option of having a person moderate in real-time with the live moderation feature. Tweet Wall Pro is highly customizable and also provides Tweet analytics.

4. Revisit: Revisit is a real-time visualization of the latest twitter messages around a specific topic. Use it create your own twitter wall at a conference or an ambient display at your company or whatever other idea you come up with.

5. Another Tweet on The Wall: Another Tweet on The Wall also posts Tweets one at a time but puts a nice strong emphasis on the profile of the Tweeter. The background of the wall borrows the image from the poster’s Twitter Profile. This might be an interesting way to encourage live conversations at the event between the attendees.

Have you used a Twitter Wall for your events? At our most recent BlackJet SF Launch Party, we featured a Twitter Feed Wall on a giant LCD screen to display all the tweets with our hashtag #BlackJetSFLaunch. Let us know your favorite tool in the comments below or on Facebook & Twitter!

Startup Monday: Ask Your Target Market

In a time where it’s crucial to know whether or not your newest idea is going to be a hit or a flop, market research is key. It can be far too expensive to hire a firm, and often too time consuming and difficult to find the resources on your own. With the help of Ask Your Target Market, or AYTM, you can put your market research stressing behind you.

AYTM is a cool new way for companies of all different types and sizes to learn more about their potential customers. Using a panel of over 4.5 millions of consumers across 5 different countries, the firm helps you define your target market, create your survey, and make sense of the data that is returned to you.

If you’ve ever tried to conduct market research on your own, you know that having a tool like AYTM would eliminate countless headaches! We think it’s great the way that they can utilize their broad span of panelists to provide you with the most ideal respondents and information.

Would you consider using AYTM the next time you’re thinking about doing some market research? Tell us why or why not in the comments below or on Facebook & Twitter!

Make Your Event a Stress-less Success!

Every event needs organization. Without it, we are stuck with a stressful mess of ideas, plans and an abundance of information. The best way to keep everything in order, is to incorporate technology into the event planning, and event itself. ABCey has adapted an article from Collaborate Meetings Magazine, who featured PlannerTech by Liz King of Liz King Events and Josh Gooch, elaborating on a list of some event planning tools to help you keep your cool.

1. EventFarm is an all in one ticketing service. They provide a variety of options for your attendees and for you as well! Their distribution process is comprehensive and even allows for ticket block distribution and progress tracking. Payment is simple and convenient, and registration/check-in can be modified by you- with the ability to ask registration questions, show seating arrangement options, as well as request entree selection. Along with ticketing features, also come promo codes, waiting lists, arrival alerts, and even the ability to create name tags/badges.

2. Social Tables is a sophisticated option for important details like venue mapping, making general processes more efficient, streamlining the check-in process and communication. This service also allows for real-time collaboration among team members, as well as in depth seat mapping. They have received funding from 500 Startups and even gained the business of the 1,300 attendee Latin Grammy’s- a shocker to CEO Dan Berger. Congrats!

3. Hubb is a cloud based CMS which gives attendees, speakers and planners the ability to create personalized schedules, interact with one another and provides one location to view all social information associated with the event on a “community wall”. The mobile integration allows for real-time updates- making sure no one is left sitting in the wrong room.

4. Bizzabo helps planners make (and attendees get) the most out of an event. This service also allows everyone to receieve up to date info and help networking opportunities. It’s easy to use and allows for the much needed interaction before, during and after the event. As of now, its free to event planners and attendees, but in the future Bizzabo will provide some outlets for event organizers to gain extra revenue.

5. Splash is a great tool to use to create an awesome and original event page, which lets you select a location, time and also serves as an invitation. You can take care of aspects like generating a budget, creating one-sheets and overall brainstorming, as well as tracking RSVPs and VIPs in real time. Pictures can be posted to the event page afterwards using a #hashtag!

Which of these services or apps have your tried to help techify your event and streamline those somewhat complicated tasks ? Let us know in the comments below, or on Facebook & Twitter.