Tag: outdoors
ABCey Presents: How To Incorporate Nature Into Your Next Event
Humans love feeling connected to nature, and it can be very therapeutic too! Well, there’s a new emerging trend in the event industry that relies heavily on the bioliphic design concept. It also seeks to incorporate naturally designed spaces into your events. Read more to learn about the many benefits of nature-inspired events, both for the event planner and the attendees.
There are 4 Main Benefits of Nature-Based Design that have been scientifically proven. These include, improved well-being, improved productivity, enhanced creativity, and an increased likelihood of positive emotions. These all come from feeling connected to the outdoors, and all of them are helpful for event managers seeking to make their guests happy!
How to Do It
There are two key strategies to incorporating nature into your events:
Look for venues that naturally showcase the outdoors!
This could include outdoor terraces and balconies, views of the water, such as the ocean, lakes or pond, and abundant natural light through skylights and large windows. Green walls and water features, gardens and outdoor greenspace, or décor that uses natural materials, like wood and stone are also good options!
Bring the outdoors to an indoor venue! There are several ways to do this, such as:
- Seeing nature: You can accomplish this through digital signage and walls, backdrops, artwork, and murals that include elements of nature. Live herbal centerpieces, hedge rows, or an indoor garden, forest, or water feature can also give your guests a sense of being outside!
- Hearing nature: Events can get pretty loud and busy, so what’s more desirable than a nice spot to get some peace and quiet? Start by selecting a location within the venue that’s as quiet as possible. Offer speakers or headsets with natural sounds of running water, ocean waves, bird song, etc. that your attendees can listen to when they want to relax!
- Feeling nature: Textures like wood, sand, water, stone, and grass stimulate biophilic responses, so try to find a way to incorporate these into your event space! These materials could be used in onsite hubs, lounges, and exhibit booths, for example.
- Smelling nature: Even just the smell of the outdoors can connect people to the outside world. Try infusing your event space with natural scents using essential oils. By picking the right scent, you’re sure to generate positive feelings among your guests!
What’s one of your favorite nature inspired events?
How else have you seen nature incorporated in the events you’ve attended or planned? We’d love to hear from you! Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!
Source: Event Manager Blog
ABCey Presents: 5 Creative Ideas for Upcycled Event Decor!
Whether it’s a small event, a huge conference, or a gala, purchasing or renting event decor can be very wasteful and pricey! ABCey has compiled a list of our favorite ideas for upcycled event decor!
1. Actual Trash (and yes, we mean it!)
Actual trash! You can use thrown-out trash and transform it into a banner of trash bags or a beautiful backdrop for your guests. This one was even from one of our events, Creating Equilibrium – an environmental conference and festival that focused on sustainability! Based on the theme, we designed a depiction of our oceans by upcycling thrown-out trash.
2. Wooden Pallets
Wooden pallets are one of the best things to upcycle! It effortlessly adds a natural element to your event and can be transformed into a multitude of things! You can stack them for a makeshift table, hang photos and lights from them, paint them to make signs, and so much more. All it takes is a little imagination..
3. Old Rope and Leftover Boards
With old and sturdy rope and a board, you can create a suspended tabletop for any outdoor event! Dress it up for an elegant party or add some party favors for your guests! If you want add a playful feel for any younger guests or those with young hearts, you can create a swing! It’ll also become a great photo-op for people to remember your event.
4. Hula Hoop
Hula hoops don’t just have to stay around your waist (and sometimes the floor)! With some flowers and greenery, you can completely change your old hula hoop into a chandelier! You can also use it to highlight a statement word you want your guests to remember even after they leave! Cheers!
5. Jars
Jars and bottles are an easy element to upcycle! If you add a little water, you can use them as a vase for florals. Also, you can make it into an activity for your guests with a little paint or twine to let them customize their own! If you are looking to illuminate your event, placing candles or lights inside a jar is a great way add a soft glow!
What is your favorite upcycled event decor?
All these projects can also become a great interactive activity for you and your guests. They’re just as elegant and beautiful as store-bought event decorations. Which ones will you use? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter!
ABCey’s San Francisco Weekend Lineup 6/21-6/24
It’s almost Friday! ABCey brings you this week’s San Francisco Weekend Lineup with the top events in the Bay Area! It’s going to be packed with lots of LGBT pride!
Weekend Lineup: Giants LGBT Night
June 21st | 7:15pm |special event ticket package |AT&T Park
Celebrate the Bay Area’s rich LGBT culture with the San Francisco Giants! If you purchase a special event ticket package, you’ll get a ticket to the evening’s Giant’s game, access to a pre-game party, and a limited edition gift. Part of the proceeds will go towards supporting local LGBT-focused non-profits!
SF Pride Parade Celebration
June 23rd | 12pm-6pm |Tickets|Civic Center Plaza
It’s that time of year again! Come out to all the festivities to prepare for the 47th annual celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender pride! There will be inspirational speakers, music, food, and more to get you excited for the parade on Sunday.
Pink Mammoth Block Party
June 23rd | 12pm-9pm |$15-$20 Cover|119 Utah St.
The 6th annual Pink Mammoth Block Party will be happening again this year! Join in on the fun and wear all the pink you own. There will be lots of dancing, musical stylings provided by Thomas Jack and Pink Mammoth residents, and food! This year will feature the upcoming interactive Tree of Life and the Trolley Stage with a historic San Francisco Cable Car operating as a stage. Visit the Pink Mammoth Facebook Page for more info.
SF Pride Parade & Rally
June 24th | 10:30am-6pm |Tickets|Embarcadero to Civic Center
Want to really show your pride? Make a sign and come march in the parade or cheer on the crowd! There will also be festivities like inspirational speakers, music, and food to enjoy as well. This event is a special tradition that’s near and dear to SF’s heart, so join in and wear your brightest apparel!
Frameline 42, International LGBTQ Film Festival
Ends June 24th | Times Vary |Tickets|Castro Theatre
The film festival that came to town on June 14th will be closing this Sunday, June 24th! Come see some groundbreaking documentaries, cinematic classics, and heart-warming films. Don’t miss out on the longest-running, largest, and most widely LGBT cinema film exhibition in the world!
Whether you want to showcase your pride by joining a crowd in your brightest outfit, viewing an LGBT-related film, or by enjoying some baseball, there are plenty of ways to show some LGBT pride this weekend!
Are you excited for Pride Weekend? Let us know which event you’ll be attending in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter!
ABCey’s Weekend Lineup 7/20/-7/23
It’s almost Friday! ABCey brings you this week’s Weekend Lineup with the top events in the SF Bay Area for the upcoming weekend! We feature everything from Christmas in July and Sundaze Day Party to an Outdoor Movie Night and a Shakeout Run!
Weekend Lineup: Beer Garden Nightlife
July 20th | 6:pm-9:45pm | Tickets $12-$15| 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118
Start your weekend early with Cal Academy’s Beer Garden Nightlife! California Academy of Sciences combines locally brewed beers, music and incredible science to create an unforgettable night in their pop-up beer garden! Cal Academy is having over 12 local breweries come out for the event!
Christmas in July
July 21st | All Day | Free Admission| Pier 39, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111
Everyone loves the holiday season, so why not celebrate twice this year with Christmas in July! Pier 39 is hosting this fun-filled day with tons of festivities all day! It’s the perfect way to spend time with your family and friends after a long week of work!
Presidio Outdoor Movie Night
July 21st | | Free Admission | Civil War Parade Ground, San Francisco, CA 94129
Presidio’s family friendly movie night is the ultimate way to relax and enjoy the beautiful summer weather! Gather your friends and family and head out to Presidio for an outdoor movie night!
The San Francisco Marathon’s Official Shakeout Run
July 22nd | 8 | Free Admission |Festival Pavilion, 2 Marina Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94123
Get active this weekend and join everyone in the San Francisco Marathon’s Official Shakeout Run! This run is the perfect way to start your Saturday morning!
Petcube Rescue Block Party
July 22nd | 11:34 | Tickets $20| Spark Social, 601 Mission Bay Blvd N, San Francisco, CA 94158
The Petcube Rescue Block Party combines pets and partying to create the ultimate celebration! Not to mention, there will be food trucks and entertainment too! Who wouldn’t want to come out and celebrate?!
San Francisco Symphony on the Waterfront
July 23rd | 12 | Free Admission| Pier 27, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133
The San Francisco Symphony is hosting their 3rd annual free concert this weekend that you won’t want to miss! Spend your Sunday relaxing outside at the Waterfront and enjoying some awesome symphonic music!
Sundaze Day Party
July 23rd | 2 + | Tickets 0-$20 | The Endup, 401 6th St, San Francisco, CA 94103
End your weekend with a bang with Sundaze Day Party! Keep the party going this Sunday and head out to The Endup for a day filled with dancing, drinks, friends and a good time!
What events will you be attending this weekend? Let us know in the comments below or on our Facebook or Twitter page!
ABCey’s Top 10 Live Art Performances
ABCey’s Top 10 Live Art Performances are a must have feature at your next event! These captivating and unique performances will bring your event to the next level! We cover everything from sand art animations to live mural painting to water light graffiti!
1. 3D Sidewalk Chalk Art
3D Street Art is a fun attraction to incorporate into any outdoor event! This family friendly art is a show that kids and adults will both love! It’s the perfect performance to include in almost any event!
2. Sand Art Animations
Charlene Lanzel, a famous sand artist, creates amazing live performance using sand, a light box and a projector. This funky performance is the ultimate way to bring your event to life!
3. Speed Painted Portraits
Rock Demarco does speed paintings that are finished in under 10 minutes! These fast-past paintings are fun for everyone and make the perfect personalized party favor to send home with your guests!
4. Glitter and Glue Art
Everyone loves glitter! So why not include a Glitter Art Performance at your next event? This amazing art would make the best addition to any event!
5. Water Light Graffiti Paint
Antonin Fourneau uses Water Light Graffiti to by using LED lights and water. This interactive and unique type of art will wow your guests and create a beautiful show in the process!
6. Custom Shadow Show
Wow your guests with an extraordinary shadow show! This unique performance is a sure way to create a memorable event that your guests will never forget!
7. Digital Paintings
Jeremey Sutton combines technology and painting to create this art masterpiece! Digital Paintings are a cool way to integrate technology into your event!
8. Graffiti Art/Live Murals
The Graffiti Kings create live murals with graffiti at events all over the world! Watch the artists in action as they spray paint huge incredible portraits right in front of your eyes!
9. Projection Mapping Live Performance Art
Incorporate new projection mapping technology into live art performances for the ultimate experience at your next event! A Dandy Punk performances are great for any occasion!
10. Live Art Performances: Art Exhibitions
Allen Axelrod’s interactive art performance is an awesome show to include in any event! This unique and fun work of art will definitely impress any audience!
What’re your favorite live art performances? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter?
SF Events: 7/22/16-7/24/16
Thursday is here and the weekend is near! ABCey Events has our Weekend Lineup with the top 5 Bay Area and SF events that you don’t want to miss!
Top 5 Bay Area/SF Events
1. J-Pop Summit 2016
Fri July 22nd- Sun July 24th, 2016 | Schedule | $20-$200 tickets here | Regency Ballroom, Fort Mason Center, NEW PEOPLE Cinema (check locations here)
Jump into the J-Pop world at this summit and discover Japanese tech, culture, music, food, and film! This huge event starts Friday with Kyary Pamyu Pamyu performing as part of their World Tour (tickets and info). Then prepare yourself for a jam packed summit Saturday and Sunday. You won’t run out of things do with with: meet and greets with J-Pop stars, live performances, tech tradeshow/sessions, fashion events, interactive Summit/Showcase, panel discussions, and workshops! If that isn’t enough for you, get excited for the amazing food trucks and vendors. Guys-they have a “Sake Summit”! Also throughout the weekend, head to the Japan Film Festival for exclusive live-action and animation films, appearances, and Q&A’s. So dress up if you’re feeling adventurous, and check out this top SF event!
2. Bubble Soccer with SF Deltas
Fri. July 22nd | 2pm – 5pm | FREE | China Basin Park, San Francisco
With this beautiful weather, why not get out there and enjoy the great outdoors-with bubble soccer! With an inflatable ball around your head and torso, you never have to worry about getting hurt! The San Francisco Deltas, an American Professional soccer team, invites everyone to come learn about their team, and if you arrive before 2:30pm you get a SF Deltas scarf free! Start your weekend off right this Friday and have lots of fun bouncing and rolling around!
3. A Mad Hatter’s Affair (7pm Dinner Show;10pm Dessert Show)
Sat July 23rd | 6pm-on | $118 and up tickets here | 21+ event | Lodge at the Regency Center: 1290 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Let the Mad Hatter be your host while you dine on an amazing feast and hangout with the cast of Alice and Wonderland! Get sucked into the magical wonderland, drink special elixirs and watch the characters and cirque, belly, and burlesque dancers perform for you. If the Cheshire Cat hasn’t hypnotized you enough, stay for dessert (extra purchase of tickets and dessert required). Now don’t be late for this very important date, jump down the rabbit hole this Saturday, and enjoy a unique experience you won’t forget!
4. McLaren Park Treasure Hunt & Fun Day
Sat. July 22nd | 10am-2pm | FREE *Register here ASAP before Fri. July 22nd | 116 John Shelley Dr., Group Picnic Area
Want to be a pirate? Well now you can! Grab your family or a few pals, and go searching for a buried treasure throughout McLauren Park this Saturday. Not only will you find a treasure, but you can also get prizes, eat great food, get your face painted, do Zumba, and play on the mobile recreation (rock climbing, biking, skateboarding, and slack lining)! So come out, and find the buried treasure!
5. SFMOMA’s Free Family Museum Day
Sun July 24th | 10am-5pm | FREE*up to 2 adults accompanying each visitor 18&younger | 151 Third St., San Francisco
Come and explore the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art with your family! To showcase their sonic installation, a collaboration with Chris Kallymer, the museum is hosting a free day where you’ll hear from his Paradise Choir (12, 1, 2, and 3pm) and Site-Specific Performances of his work (11am-3pm). Hear their stunning sound throughout the museum and join in on their mobile choruses, performances, and workshops. With so much to do, what’s stopping you from this free museum trip?
Will you be attending any of these Bay Area/SF events? Any other SF events this weekend you’re excited about? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or on Twitter!
ABCey’s Weekend Lineup: 7/1/16 – 7/3/16
July is already upon us and it’s almost the weekend! We hope you are just as excited as we are for Independence Day on Monday, and ABCey has you covered with all of your 4th of July events coming soon! Until then, make the most of your weekend and check out these fun Bay Area events!
1. Alameda County Fair
Fri. July 1st – Mon. July 4th, 2016| 11am-11pm |prices vary| 4501 Pleasanton Ave. Pleasanton, CA
If you haven’t gone to the fair yet, GO! This fair is a must-see attraction for everyone! For kids, there is a children’s park, adventure park, petting zoo, ferris wheel, and carnival. Adults can be entertained with horse races, a beer garden, a wine bar, shopping areas, and live concerts. There are only 4 more days til’ the fair is over, so come check it out before it’s too late!
2. 32nd Annual Fillmore Jazz Festival
Sat July 2nd & Sun July 3rd, 2016 | 10am-6pm | FREE | Fillmore St.–Jackson to Eddy St, San Francisco
Enjoy two days of music, food, art, and fun at the Fillmore Jazz Festival! This festival takes over more than 12 blocks and has every kind of food and craft imaginable. With 32 years under its belt, this festival has become incredibly popular and the largest free jazz festival on the West Coast. Join the other 100,000 people who attend this event and jazz up your weekend!
3. Golden Gate Park: Guided Trail and Nature Walk
Sat. July 2nd, 2016 | 10am-12pm | FREE | Stow Lake, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
Experience nature this weekend and take a guided tour through Golden Gate Park. This guided tour is free and a perfect way to collect your thoughts while getting fit! With your own personal tour guide, you can learn all about the park, plants, and wildlife. So get out and enjoy the great outdoors with a nice stroll!
4. Free Opera at the Ballpark: Carmen
Sat. July 2nd, 2016 | 7:30pm | FREE, RSVP for Early Entry Tickets | AT&T Park; 24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco
Mix things up this weekend by seeing a play…a free play! This Saturday, the San Francisco Opera is hosting a live simulcast and projecting their current play, Carmen, on AT&T Park’s huge video screen. You will definitely be entertained by Carmen, a femme fatale play with jealousy, danger, love and murder. Head out to the ball park to watch this captivating play and a special pre-show and intermission with the other 30,000 attendees!
5. Off the Grid: Presidio Picnic & Food Truck Party
Sun. July 3rd, 2016 | 11am-4pm | FREE | 103 Montgomery Street, Main Post, Presidio, San Francisco
This year, Off the Grid has revamped their picnic and food truck event held in Presidio Park. They now have over the 30 food and beverage trucks, free yoga classes, games, and music! You can also get clothes and accessories at their mobile shop, produce from their market, and help planning your next activity in San Francisco. There are also FREE shuttles, PresidiGo, that travel to Embarcadero BART, certain SF streets, MUNI, and around the park. Don’t miss the chance to relax on the grass field and enjoy great food and company!
Extra Event: Marin County Fair Fireworks and S’more Feast
Fri. July 1st, 2016 | 8:30pm – 10:00pm | FREE | McInnis Park: 310 Smith Ranch Road, San Rafael, CA
Because this weekend is so jam packed, we have one more event that will get you in the mood for July 4th! Friday at McInnis Park, park rangers will have yummy s’mores to eat right before you walk to the top of the Nike Site to watch the 9:30pm Marin County Fair fireworks show. Fireworks are always fun especially with s’mores and tomorrow you can get both for free!
What are you planning on doing this weekend? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook & Twitter!