Tag: ideas
ABCey Presents: #TechTuesday Evernote
#TechTuesday highlights the best and brightest ideas in the tech world. Today’s #TechTuesday, features Evernote, an app that keeps your notes and best ideas organized!
Evernote
We all know event planning can be a little hectic sometimes, but Evernote gives you the ability to keep all of your creative ideas and notes organized! The app ensures that everything is in sync and all in one place to easily find your work fast. Not to mention, it allows users to enhance their notes by adding checklists, attachments and audio recordings!
It’s easy to forget certain tasks when you’re searching through multiple checklists and trying to find what needs to get done! This mobile filing event app gives you organization skills event planners have always wanted! Organize your site selection research and travel itinerary notes, and quickly share with members of your team!
We are always looking for innovative ways to make event planning more efficient for us and our clients. This app saves us a lot of stress by providing the organization all event planners need!
Do you use Evernote? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!
ABCey’s Weekend Lineup 6/16-6/18
It’s almost Friday! ABCey brings you the Weekend Lineup for the best upcoming events in the Bay Area! There is everything from music and food festivals to a relaxing Father’s Day bike ride through the San Francisco Zoo!
Weekend Lineup: San Francisco’s World Refugee Day
Friday June 16th | 12-3:30pm | Free Admission | Mission District, 1850 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA
You don’t want to miss San Francisco’s World Refugee Day! It’s fun and it’s for a good cause! The days consists of cultural performances, international food, music, speakers, a talent show, a costume show and more to commemorate the bravery and contributions of refugees!
Phono Del Sol Music and Food Festival 
Saturday June 17th | 12-7pm | General Admission $29 | Potrero Del Sol Park (La Raza), 1500 Utah Street, San Francisco, CA
Phono Del Sol is a music & food festival that has an awesome lineup with 10 bands that will be performing all day long! There will also be 10 food trucks with an assortment of different types cuisine as well as a skate park! This festival is an all-age friendly event that will be the highlight of your weekend!
Presidio Kite Festival
Saturday June 17th | 12pm-5pm | Free Admission | Main Parade Ground, 103 Montgomery St, San Francisco, California 94129
Make your dad feel extra special this year and take him to the Presidio Kite Festival! This family-friendly event is the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day Weekend! Get your whole family together and head out to Presidio Park for some fun in the sun!
Raise the Temple!
Saturday June 17th | 2-10pm | General Admission $20-$27 | The Midway, 900 Marin Street, San Francisco, CA 94124
This day filled with music, art, and wellness is a fundraiser for the 2017 Temple at Burning Man! Come and show your support the build of the 18th Incarnation of The Burning Man Temple! All profits go to The Temple Build!
North Beach Festival
Saturday and Sunday June 17th-18th | 10am-6pm | Free Admission | Washington Square Park, North Beach District, San Francisco, CA
Don’t miss out on San Francisco’s 63rd annual North Beach Festival! There’s obviously a reason it has been going on for this long! There will be all sorts of foods, a variety of drinks and amazing live entertainment!
Father’s Day Bike About
Sunday June 18th | 8:30am-11:30am | $30 per peddler | San Francisco Zoo, Sloat Blvd & Great Hwy, San Francisco, CA 94132
Bring your family and celebrate Father’s Day with an exciting hour-and-a-half long bike ride through the San Francisco Zoo! Everyone will enjoy seeing all of the exotic zoo animals! Make this Father’s Day one your family never forgets!
Will you be attending any of these Weekend Lineup events? What other San Francisco events are you excited about this weekend? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!
ABCey Presents: Top 10 DIY Event Invitations!
First impressions matter, so why not make your invites something your guests will never forget? Get creative and try out some funky and unique DIY event invitations! These affordable and fun invitations are a sure way to get your guests talking about the event well in advance!
1. Popsicle Stick Invitations
Set the tone of a summer party and send out some easy to make no-melt popsicle invitations!
2. Pop Up Rainbow Invitations
Add a splash of color to your invitations with this rainbow pop up!
3. Snow Globe Invitations
These cute and trendy snow globe invitations can be used for almost any kind of event!
4. Blow Up Balloon Invitations
In order to read the balloon invitation, the guest must blow up the balloon! They are easy to make and customizable for any occasion!
5. Film Roll Invitations
These clever and cute film rolls make the perfect event invitations!
6. Confetti Invitations
Confetti burst invitations are an exciting and memorable way to invite your guests that they won’t see coming!
7. Decoder Invitations
This clever invite comes with decoding glasses that allow the guest to read the invitation!
8. Ladybug Invitations
These cute and trendy ladybug invitations are perfect for birthday parties or spring and summer events!
9. Flip Flop Invitations
Flip flop invitations are the perfect way to invite guests to a summer event. Too bad these aren’t wearable!
10. Mini Event Invitations
Mini invitations are an adorable way to invite guests to any kind of event! Each invitation can be personalized for specific guests!
These invitations are a fun way to get your guests thinking about your upcoming event. Make a statement with one of these unique DIY event invitations!
What are your favorite DIY invitation ideas? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!
How to Plan the Perfect Olympic Games Party
The Olympic Games are in full swing and it’s time to get into the competitive spirit! What better way to celebrate the games than by hosting an Olympic Games party? From food to activities, ABCey is here to help!
Entertainment and Games
Virtual Reality Games
Be a part of the games with fun entertainment and games to entertain your guests! Bring a high tech twist to your Olympic games party by bringing virtual reality. From basketball to tennis to volleyball, choose whatever sports your guests like most, and they can play on virtual reality screens and with goggles! Also, you can also get virtual and integrated sports floor technology, and let your guests enjoy playing on their favorite field!
Backyard Upgraded Games
In addition, upgrade your outdoor games with fully interactive games! Not only are games, like this Super Bowl hamster wheel, fun, but they are also unique twists. You can adapt this game for soccer, track and field, and tons of other sports for more Olympic fun! Also, guests will love that you compete with others to get the highest score. So bring the competitive spirit to your Olympic Games viewing party with games like this one!
Party Favors:
DIY Olympic Gold Medals
Another key element of a party is rewarding your guests for coming! Save money and stay with the Olympic games party theme thanks to these DIY Olympic medals. With some glue, glitter, bottle caps, and ribbon, you can easily make these great medals. Your guests will feel special that you spent the time to DIY making these fun party favors!
Olympic Games party food and beverages:
Olympic Games cake pop torches
Although you can’t be in Rio, you can still feel the electric vibe and feel like you’re right in the middle of the action! The celebrations start with the lighting and passing of the torch, so don’t forget a decoration to symbolize it. These decorative torches are not only festive, but they are also sweet! So let your guests make their own cake pop snacks and indulge their sweet tooth!
Olympic rings drinks
An Olympic party wouldn’t be complete without the rings! You can creatively show your Olympic theme with these fun cocktail glasses drink! Or, you can also add some sugar or salt to your glasses to liven up your cocktails and any drinks you’re planning to make! Also, you can use this trick for any drinking cup. Here is how to make them!
Colored ring ice cubes
In addition to your sugared cups, you can keep your refreshments cool thanks to these ice cubes! Not only do they perfectly fit with the Olympic Games party theme, but all you need is food coloring. Toss these rings into any clear flavored drink so guests can drink in style! Find out how to make them here!
Extras:
Ticket invitations
Invite guests to your party in style with these awesome tickets! Although they may be disappointed that they aren’t going flying to Rio, they’ll be excited to join in on the action at your party. These printable tickets will immediately load to your computer and let you customize it. This lets you add your own date, venue, and time. So feel special attending your top notch event.
Olympic rings backdrop
Create the perfect backdrop for your food/beverage tables and throughout your party venue! In addition, you’ll save money with these DIY Olympic rings. Also, you won’t believe how simple these are to make. Simply pin or glue colored crepe paper over polystyrene rings, and there you have it. An easy decoration that will impress your guests!
How are you planning your Olympic Games party? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!
Top 7 Unique Dessert Ideas for Events
By Jennifer Fong, Kristi Fujimoto, and Jessica Li-Jo
Picture this: You’re at a dinner event with your guests, and everything is going perfectly planned from decor to the music selection. Then, you realize your night is coming to an end. So what better way to end this perfect dinner event than to provide your guests with delicious desserts?! Well, ABCey has you covered! Here are our top 7 unique and creative dessert ideas that will surely leave your guests impressed and blessed!
1. Edible Flower cookie
Are you planning to use flowers as your centerpieces? Although you can decorate your venue with flowers, you can also use them to decorate your desserts! Everyone loves cookies, and shortbread cookies are a popular crowd pleaser. By adding these edible flowers, freeze dried fruit, and candied herbs on top of glaze, you can make these delicious tasting cookies. Moreover, you can make this lavender shortbread so your cookies are even more floral tasting. This creative and decorative dessert will be an excellent addition to your party! Learn how to make them here.
2. Flower Jello
If you want to decorate with more flowers, we have another dessert just for you! Instead of being a plain, clear “raindrop” cake dessert, this dessert is filled with decorations. Having a scary Halloween party or an outdoor floral party? From real fruit and flowers to sprinkles and spiders, the possibilities are endless when it comes to filling these droplets! These edible water bubbles are inspired by Japan’s Mizu Shingen Mochi and can be made with Agar or Jell-O gelatin. Don’t worry put insects and flowers in there because they’re edible and made from gelatin! So click here for insects and flowers, and here for fruit and sprinkles. And your guests will enjoy this unique dessert!
3. Unicorn Piñata Sugar Cookies
Give your guests a surprise with these Unicorn Piñata Sugar Cookies! These multi-colored cookies come with hollow centers that you can fill with your favorite candies. Not only will they add a magical element to your event, but they will also leave your guests wanting more! Set them out on a nice tabletop and watch your guests be delighted upon their first bite! These cookies are especially perfect for any Cinco de Mayo-themed event or kids’ birthday parties! So what are you waiting for? Learn how to make these here!
4. Burger Cupcakes
These may look like those hamburger gummy candies, but they’re actually cupcakes! Each part of the cupcake is made of different types of cake mixes with some frosting to top it all off. In addition, these hamburger cupcakes are a fun way to contrast how usual cupcakes are made! Make these for your next event and maybe even serve some fries with it!
5. Dessert Sushi
Surprise your guests by letting them think that they’re having another small course of sushi. What they won’t expect is that they’re actually getting a dessert! This dessert sushi is made from a thin layer of chocolate pancake that is smeared with warm cream cheese and fruit in the middle. Give your guests these tiny little delights at your events!
6. Chocolate Flower
Continue to wow your guests with this Chocolate Flower dessert! Wrap your favorite sweets and fruits with some chocolate flower petals. Then, pour hot custard and watch the petals bloom open just like a flower! This artistic, yet delicious dessert is sure to leave your guests mesmerized! Also, this is ideal for any celebratory party event! So check out how to make these here!
7.Crème Brûlée Cookies
Cookies are a typical dessert. But when you infuse it with Crème brûlée, you take it to a whole new level. Get the custard that you love oh-so-much combined with your favorite parts of a cookie! This will leave a memorable and tasteful dessert that will allow attendees to look forward to your future events! Learn how to make them here.
Which of these dessert ideas did you like best? Tell us in the comments below or on Facebook and on Twitter!
10 Ideas For Your Perfect Pineapple Themed Party!
Theme parties are always fun, and who knew the pineapple trend would last this long?! Coming up with a new idea or finding the right decor can be stressful, so ABCey is here to help! Here are 10 great ideas to help you plan the perfect pineapple party!
1. Pineapples Centerpieces:
Go figure, pineapples also make great centerpieces! Simply hallow it out and add some beautiful flowers.
2. DIY Pineapple Pinecones
Can’t find any real pineapples? Don’t worry, we have solutions! Find some pinecones to paint yellow, place some green construction paper on top and there you go! Learn to make these pinecone/apples here.
3. Tissue Paper Pineapples
If you are feeling even more artsy, you can make these fun tissue decor. All you need is yellow tissue paper, green paper, and some glue. Set these DIY pineapples on a table, and you’re all set!
4. Painted Decor:
Turn your plain pineapples into colorful decorative pieces by painting the green stems OR spray paint them a dazzling color (like gold shown blow), add some sparkly glitter, and watch your decor shine!
5. Balloons
Want something even simpler? Turn a balloon into perfectly themed decoration by taping zigzagged green paper on top of yellow balloons. There you have it, great decor in seconds!
If you’re in rush and there’s no time for a DIY, you can always find pre-made balloons! Bring more of the theme to your party with these pineapple shaped balloons or add a stylish twist with these white and gold balloons. Any option will make your party pop, literally!
6. String Lights
Decorate your walls or brighten up your backyard sky with these fun lights! Hang these pineapple lantern string lights and watch your party glow!
7. Banners
Cover your walls or fence with these gold green and glitter garland to ensure your decorations are top notch!
8. Pineapple Confetti Sprinkle some confetti on your F&B table, and you’ll have that little something extra to impress your guests! We suggest these.
9. Tableware:
Drink in style with these vibrant themed shaped cups or these fun Party Like a Pineapple cups!
10. Pineapple Straws
Keep the theme going all the way down to the straws! Turn regular straws into festive ones with these DIY origami add-ons.
Are you ready for your pineapple themed party? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!
#TechTuesday: 5 ways to use drones for events
#TechTuesday highlights the best and brightest ideas in the tech world. ABCey would like to recognize these up and coming technologies for their innovative ideas and impact on the event world. ABCey has compiled 5 innovative ways event planners are utilizing drones!
Although they were first used for military purposes, drones are becoming extremely useful tools for the event planning industry. Drones are not only used to capture stunning aerial images, but also in previously unimaginable ways that go beyond just pictures and videos. Here are 5 great ways to use drones for your next event!
1. Aerial Event Photos and Videos
Drones are now a popular tool for event planners, because they can capture amazing aerial footage from an infinite number of angles. They are also extremely versatile and can be used at conferences, trade shows, galas, festivals, and sporting events! This tech allows for extraordinary 360 degree views of all attendees, as well as close ups of speakers and performances.
2. Choosing the Perfect Venue/Site Selection
Drones can also be used for pre-event prep to collect venue images. Photos and videos make it so easy for clients and planners to choose the perfect site for an event! From images of massive event properties to inside meeting rooms, there is almost no place a drone can’t fly!
3. Entertainment Drones to Wow Your Guests
Companies have outdone themselves by using drones as a new form of entertainment for their guests! Intel is one company that impressed their guests and set the world record by having 100 drones create a unique light show! Others, like Amsterdam Drone Entertainment, have programmed their drones to dance for crowds which has truly set a new standard for event entertainment!
4. The Best Delivery Service
Some other ways to use a drone? How about deliver food, drinks and invitations! This interactive way of distributing items to people is mostly used by restaurants to give food to their customers. But, this kind of delivery service can just as easily be adapted to fit the event industry’s needs. Using a drone to deliver items to guests is extremely innovative, interactive, and a great way to make your event stand out!
5. Extra $ From Advertising and Sponsors
Drones can also be lucrative for your business! If you are hosting an event, sponsors may offer to pay you if you use drones to promote their business. Attendees are often drawn to drone tech which is seen as a great opportunity for companies to advertise. Because drones can drop off samples/products, hold up company posters, and display a brand logo, they are becoming the newest advertising trend!
Apps are also being made and adapted to incorporate drone technology. Facebook recently announced they have updated their live video stream application, Facebook Live. This update allows users to stream videos live from a drone. Twitter‘s similar live video streaming application, Periscope, also announced this feature.
By capturing stunning footage, helping venue selection, entertaining and serving their guests, delivering items, and increasing revenue and an event’s wow factor, drones are the new must-have gadget for anyone in the event industry!
Know any other ways drones are used? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and on Twitter!
ABCey’s Weekend Lineup: 3/ 4/16 – 3/6/16
We love the weekends and we want to make sure that you enjoy them to the fullest. Take advantage of these [hopefully] work-free days and sleep in a little bit; relax. And if you want to get out and have some fun, ABCey’s Weekend Lineup has got you covered with some exciting events that involve orchestra music, chocolate AND an alcohol tasting party! Say what?!
1. “Off the Grid”: Friday Night Food Truck Party
FRIDAY MARCH 4TH, 2015 | 5PM – 10PM | FORT MASON | FREE*
It goes down at Fort Mason on Friday nights. If you love food, then Off the Grid is your type of party. Featuring over 30 food trucks, food tents and dessert carts, this is one food-tastic party. Steamed bao buns? Check. Lobster rolls? Got it. Frozen Custard? Yes Please! Come with a full wallet and an empty belly and spend the night indulging in all the food truck offerings.
2. Awesome Orchestra Classical Jam: Video Game Music
FRIDAY MARCH 4TH, 2016 | 7pm – 10pm | UPTOWN BODY & FENDER, OAKLAND, CA | FREE
Calling all gamers and musicians! Are you ready for a musical adventure? If so, then join Awesome Orchestra Collective this Friday for a night of amazing orchestra music in a fun and casual environment with people like you who get excited by incredibly high musicianship. Part open rehearsal, part performance, they provide sheet music for those of you who want to join in and an open space for those of you who just want to listen. This Friday’s theme is Video Game Music and it’s going to be one epic night you don’t want to miss.
3. International Chocolate Salon
SATURDAY MARCH 5TH, 2016 | FORT MASON | 10AM – 6PM | $20 ADV/$30 DOOR
Chocolate on chocolate on chocolate! Satisfy your cravings this Saturday with chocolates from some of North America’s finest chocolatiers and confectioners. The day will be filled with chocolate tastings, chef and author talks, and wine tastings, so all my chocolate lovers need not miss this sweet event. Head over to their website to get more info and purchase tickets.
4. SF Weekly’s Drink 2016 Tasting Party
SATURDAY MARCH 5TH, 2016 | 1PM – 5PM| CITY NIGHTS | $20-$25
Why not toast to the weekend? This unique, buffet-style tasting event will feature samples from 20+ breweries, wineries and distilleries. And to make sure you’re not drinking on an empty stomach, they’ll be providing complimentary appetizers. Tickets can be purchased here.
5. 2016 San Francisco History Days
SUNDAY MARCH 6TH, 2016 | 11AM – 4PM | THE OLD MINT | FREE
Get your learn on this Sunday at the Old Mint which will be transformed into pop up museums of San Francisco’s history. San Francisco has a rich and full past that many people don’t know about, so here’s your opportunity to get an in-depth look into this amazing city. Visit here for the full schedule of events.
We hope you get a chance to take some time out for yourself this weekend. If you plan on heading to any of these events, hit us up on Facebook and Twitter and tell us how it was!
ABCey’s Weekend Lineup: 2/26/16-2/28/16
With the weekend just around the corner, I hope you decide to trade in your business suit for some jeans and shades! The Bay area has been warming up, and it’s the perfect weather to open up the windows and take a walk around the park. For this week’s weekend lineup ABCey wanted to take advantage of the forecast and give you some great outdoor events to choose from!
Friday February 26th, 2016 | 5:00pm – 9:30pm |2460 Sutter St. | $12 Adults $8 Students (Seniors & Kids under 12 free)
If you’re looking to travel the globe without the baggage fees, step out to Pacific Heights Friday night and experience a taste of Russia! The festival will host an array of events that are triggered to entice all senses. So if you’re looking to indulge your tastebuds with some authentic Russian food or admire the art of traditional dance, this event is the place to be!
THE COMEDY ROAST OF DONALD TRUMP
Friday, February 26th, 2016 | 8pm | Pappy’s, Berkeley | $10
One of the most debated candidates for this year’s election has been nominated as the guest of honor for this month’s comedy roast hosted by RoastSF! Mr. Trump will not be in attendance for this event, however, his impersonator is KNOWN for his class act impression, and will be severely roasted by 8 improv comics. Regardless if you love him or you hate him, it’s no question that you won’t have a hurt stomach from laughing at this event!
HOMELESS HOMES POP UP WORKSHOP
Saturday, February 27th, 2016 | 11am – 6pm | Nimby, Oakland | FREE
Want to make a difference in your community? Homelessness in The Bay area has been the topic of discussion, especially with the growing tents that are vacating the streets. This Saturday and Sunday, this pop up workshop is uniting people within the community to take a hands-on-approach by creating micro-homes for the homeless. Start off your Saturday the right way by giving back to those in need!
Saturday, February 27th, 2016 | 1pm-4 pm | Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara | $79-$125
For all of the bacon lovers (we know how many of you there are), this is an event you don’t want to miss! Enjoy the VIP treatment of walking the field while enjoying a brew and a slice of bacon. Guests will be able to indulge in 50+ bacon infused dishes and proceed to wash them down with a choice of 100+ craft beers and cider samples, all of which are from some of the best local vendors and breweries! Enjoy games, some fun in the sun, and if you’re feeling brave, sign up for the bacon eating contest, which is sure to leave you full for days!
MARDI GRAS CELEBRATION TREASURE ISLAND FLEA
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 | All Day | Great Lawn, Ave of the Palms, Treasure Island | $3
If you can’t make it out to New Orleans this year to celebrate Mardi Gras, the Treasure Island Flea has the solution! This Sunday, local street musicians and New Orleans menus will be fused together to make this event come to life. Choose to shop from the 400+ curated vendors while trying a 2-fo-1 TI Flea Hurricane Cocktail as you watch the city transform, this is a great way to kick back and relax before Monday! 
A GATHERING OF ROYALS- ACADEMY OF FRIENDS 2016 GALA
Saturday, February 28th, 2016 | 5pm-10 pm | San Francisco Design Center, San Francisco | $225.39-&757.95
Are you planning to watch The Oscar’s Sunday night? If so, and you’re looking for a change of scenery, head down to the San Francisco Design Center for a great cause! Not only does this gala give you the opportunity to dress up as if you were at The Oscar’s, but 100% of the proceeds are directed towards HIV/AIDS services in the Bay area. Enjoy complimentary food, wine, and champagne, and if you’re feeling up to it keep partying at the after party at SF Oasis!
What event(s) are you placing on your calendar for this upcoming weekend? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!
ABCey Presents: Planning & Promoting Your Event with Pinterest
Here at ABCey, we are constantly using Pinterest as a tool for inspiration! As social media has become key for promoting events online, Pinterest is an effective tool in brainstorming and behind-the-scenes planning for events. Being able to make multiple boards and research through relevant content inspires creativity and organization when planning any kind of event!
Find “Pinspiration”
Decorating for events can be the most fun, but challenging part of your event. Decorations and little details tie the event together from start to finish. Whether you’re looking for table setting ideas or invitation inspiration, Pinterest is the perfect tool to start gathering pins. Start pinning!
Organize Your Boards in Categories For Your Event
It’s time to start pulling together every new idea you find in the Pinterest universe onto your own board. This can be done on your own personal page or on the official board for your organization, corporation, nonprofit, etc. Additionally, your boards can be organized by food, decorations, invitations, themes, florals etc.
Interaction with Vendors & Clients
First, as boards are created, the link can be shared with others, whether or not they have an account.We often create event decor boards for our clients, and then share them directly for feedback to make sure we are on the right track. Pinterest also makes it possible to identify other Pinners with similar needs and tastes. Therefore, by liking, pinning and commenting on other posts, you can connect to Pinners with similar interests and build ideas. In addition, if you both follow each other, you can use the private messaging feature to start a more in-depth collaboration.
Read the Crafting/DIY/How-To Articles
Ultimately, Pinterest is known for having some of the best creative content out there. Clicked on pins reconnect you to an article or webpage to show you where the Pin came from. Take advantage of these articles as they provide some great insight on how to make your own projects or decor!
Promote Your Event on Pinterest
Pinterest gears towards connecting everyone to content and ideas that align with their interests and passions. You can even use your own board to actually promote your event which also gives you a chance to start marketing your original content, creating brand awareness and media attention. It is a very visual platform, so choosing compelling photographs & visuals with bright colors will bring your event board more success!
_________________________________________________________________________
Love Pinterest and want some event inspiration? Check our Pinterest page for creative event ideas! Let us know how you use Pinterest in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!
Sources: EventFarm, Capterra, Hello Endless