Looking for an event, party or open house in the Seattle area? Click the calendar below...
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
New Business Trend: Video Resumes
The unemployment rate in the country seems to increase every week which means thousands of business professionals are finding themselves on the job hunting search once again. With so many out of work, how can you set yourself apart from the pack?
A rising new business trend for professionals is to create a video resume. A Seattle based company, 4th Avenue Media, is aiding professionals in the creation of video resumes. The team at 4th Avenue Media believes the only thing that sets you apart is your story. By integrating new media tools like web videos, websites, blogs and other social networking tools like Facebook, Linked In, Plaxo and others, you send a message to the employer that your technical and social skills will be an asset to their company.
The key to utilizing new media tools most effectively is to make certain that all content available online, including personal sites you may have on social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter & MySpace, are professional and non-incriminating. Screen all your online personal content including friends sites that may have anything questionable about you and remove all content and images that may translate a message you wouldn't want a potential employer to receive.
Once you've verified that all your social memberships are professionally representing you, create your video resume and place it on all social networking sites. You never know how a contact may lead to a potential job. Also, email your video resume in advance of your interview to your potential employer along with a paper copy of your resume. Your video resume will certainly set you apart from all the generic resumes in the employers inbox.
We recently read about this innovative branding company from one of our favorite blogs, Mix Mingle & Glow, and we just had to share the idea with you. If you are looking for a new and innovative way to brand your company logo, name, icon or image then consider a Flogo. What is a flogo, you ask? SnowMasters research and development facility in northern Alabama became the home of what is now known as Flogos, or "logos that fly." A flogo is a cloudlike, balloonlike object created out of proprietary surfactant (soap) based foam formulations and lighter-than-air gases such as helium. Flogos are designed to last for as long as their visual impact is needed. Specific formulations are available to provide a life expectancy of a few minutes to an hour or so. The visual impact also greatly depends on atmospheric conditions such as wind and relative humidity. On average, Flogos last for 30 to 40 minutes. Flogos are Green and 100% environmentally safe.
Looking for a fun activity this weekend? Head over to the Parlor in Bellevue, WA for some comedy and laughs with Mark Curry from "Hanging With Mr. Cooper." Plus mark your calendars for more activities coming up including comedy shows, dualing piano shows, and even a Super Bowl Party this weekend.
The Parlor is also great for large groups. The Parlor Collection provides the right space for any event. Whether you’re looking for a fun spot to host an after-work gathering, a corporate team building event, a celebratory product launch, or a private party, The Parlor Collection has what you’re looking for. Private executive suites, semi-private ultra lounges, or select sections of billiards tables are available. From casual to elegant catering and exceptional first-class service, your guests will enjoy an environment like no other.
If you are hitting the skies in the near future, here are a few hot tips to help you save money.
United Rolls Back Baggage Fees
Passengers traveling on United Airlines can get a 20 percent discount on the fee to check a first bag if they pay for it online by January 31, 2009. The fee for the first bag will now be $12 when paid online (the airline has scrapped plans to double the domestic second bag fee, keeping it at $25). Passengers who pay the fees for checked baggage before going to the airport can then drop the bags in designated areas for faster check-in.
Horizon Air - Update:
Beginning April 8, Horizon Air will use larger aircraft, but reduce the number of flights, between Seattle and Victoria, BC. The expanded aircraft will boost the overall number of seats on the route by 43 percent. The current schedule of seven daily flights with the 37-seat plane will be replaced with four daily services on a 74-seat aircraft. Also from Seattle, your group can connect to Horizon’s new non-stop routes to Los Angeles and Sonoma County-Santa Rosa, as well as routes throughout the West on its sister carrier Alaska Airlines. For the latest airline industry info, be sure to check out the airline and airline properties feature in our February issue.
Nothing can take you away from the stresses of life like the movies can. That's why with all the hustle and bustle of the holiday approaching, Hollywood gives us a little escape in the form of blockbusters. Here's the buzz on the season's most talked about feature films...
Twilight
The Plot: In her new town of Forks, Washington, misfit teenager Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) falls for her alluring and mysterious classmate, Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson). As it turns out, Edward belongs to a lineage of vampires, although he doesn't fit the typical vampire mold. As their passion reaches dizzying heights, can Edward resist his natural urges, and will he be able to defend Bella from his family members who have come for her? Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
Four Christmases
The Plot: A comedy about a married couple (Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn) from two divorced families who are tasked with attending four Christmas Day celebrations.
Australia
The Plot: Set in northern Australia before World War II, an English aristocrat (Nicole Kidman) who inherits a sprawling ranch reluctantly pacts with a stock-man (Hugh Jackman) in order to protect her new property from a takeover plot. As the pair drive 2,000 head of cattle over unforgiving landscape, they experience the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by Japanese forces firsthand. Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
The Day The Earth Stood Still
The Plot: Aliens land on Earth with an important message for its citizens. A remake of the classic 1951 sci-fi film directed by Robert Wise.
Seven Pounds
The Plot: A professional man (Will Smith) who is close to suicide for his role in an auto accident that claimed the lives of seven people finds a reason to live, and to atone, when he falls for a woman (Rosario Dawson) who wants to help him deal with his grief. Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
Yes Man
The Plot: What happens when you agree with everyone and say "yes" to everything? Carl (Jim Carrey) is about to find out when he chooses to become overly agreeable for an entire year. Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
Revolutionary Road
The Plot: A young couple (Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio) raising a family in a Connecticut suburb during the mid-1950s look to break free from their frustratingly mediocre lives.
Valkyrie
The Plot: Near the end of WWII, Claus von Stauffenberg (Tom Cruise) leads to group of fellow German army colonels in an attempt to assassinate Adolf Hitler; the event would later be called the July 20 Plot of 1944.
Marley & Me
The Plot: An impossibly cute, but impossible-to-live-with yellow Labrador retriever named Marley teaches his newlywed owners (Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson) a thing or two about patience and parenthood.
Last Chance Harvey
The Plot: During a weekend in which Harvey Shine (Dustin Hoffman) travels to London for his daughter's wedding, her first learns that he's lost his job back in New York, then he discovers he won't be the man giving away the bride at the ceremony. The one good thing that happens -- his meeting Kate (Emma Thompson), a prickly but nevertheless enchanting Londoner -- might be the beginning of some much-needed change in Harvey's life. Our Pick! Watch the trailer...
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The Plot: Benjamin Button (Brad Pitt) was born under unusual circumstances. As everyone around him grew older, he aged backwards, making the challenges of life such as creating friendships, finding a job and falling in love all the more difficult and heartbreaking. Our Pick!
Emerald City Applause Awards Wednesday, October 15, 2008 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM at the Columbia Tower Club 701 5th. Ave, 75th. Floor Seattle, WA 98104
Celebrating the Gems of our Industry
The entries are entered, the judges have judged, and the excitement is building in anticipation of the 4th Annual Emerald City Applause Awards!
Join your colleagues and friends in honoring the best of the best in Washington’s event industry! Your presence is requested to come and savor the excellent work done by some of the top companies in our industry.
NACE AUCTION October 21st Annual Auction RSVP by October 16th 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 21st, 2008 RSVP by Thursday, October 16th at www.TacomaNACE.net Sharon McGavick Student & Conference Center Clover Park Technical College 4500 Steilacoom Blvd. SW Building 23 Lakewood, WA 98499
The Tacoma/South Puget Sound Chapter of the National Association of Catering Executives invites you to our annual auction Cooking up Success! benefiting Clover Park Technical College's Culinary Arts and Floral programs & the NACE education program.
Murder Mystery aboard the historic Steamship Virginia V November 1, 2008 7-10 p.m. Departs from Seattle's Lake Union Park 860 Terry Avenue North Seattle, WA. 98109 For a cruise around Lake Union and Lake Washington
Join Events on the Edge and the historic Steamship Virginia V for a special Halloween theme murder mystery celebration and adventure aboard the High Seas, with a 3 hour Dinner Cruise around Lake Union and Lake Washington. Halloween costumes are welcome but not required! Time: Boarding/cocktails 6pm. Mystery & Dinner Cruise 7-10pm Cost: $85.00 per person plus $2.00 fuel surcharge for Buffet Dinner, Mystery & Cruise (does not incl tax or gratuity) Tickets: Available online at www.virginiav.org or call 206.624.9119 Parking: Lot & street parking is available at Lake Union Park.
To assist you in planning for 2009, Olympia Lacey Tumwater Visitor & Convention Bureau invite you to participate in the Umbrella Tour. Specifically designed for meeting and event planners, this two-day event is sure to get you acquainted with Thurston County as a meeting and event destination.
RSVP TO: Heather Antanaitis, Membership & Marketing Development Olympia Lacey Tumwater Visitior & Convention Bureau Toll Free: 877.704.7544 Email: marketing@visitolympia.com
Whether you have never been to the area or it is been a while since your last visit, this Familiarization Tour is sure to give you a fresh perspective on what the region has to offer. You will experience our finest attractions, explore restaurants and enjoy two complimentary room nights at the Phoenix Inn & Suites/Red Lion Olympia.
Please join us for the Umbrella Tour November 15-17th. Space is limited, so we ask that you RSVP by November 5th.
We think you'll love this local website that helps you connect with local teachers so you can learn just about anything. Meet teachstreet.com where you can search for teachers of a certain craft in the Seattle and Portland area. So if you want to learn to sail, cook, sew, dance, play the piano or just about any other craft you can think of, Teach Street helps you find the skilled professionals in the area that can turn you into a pro yourself.
Once you have found a teacher you can then go onto teachstreet.com and write a review that will help others find a teacher that is right for them. We also like how the site recognizes what craft you want to learn and offers books about the similar trade that are available for you at Amazon.com.
Check out Teach Street and let us know what you think.
There is now doubt the economy is in a state of flux. So how is this unstable time affecting your business? According to an ongoing poll at Meetings & Conventions Magazine, a surprising 62% of meeting & event planners are going ahead with their usual event planning routines. Now, more than ever it is vital for businesses and services to understand how to market to these event planners. An old saying goes, "Know the difference between what is extra and what is necessity" and without a doubt, marketing and advertising is a NECESSITY.
When money and budgets are tight; however, it is not uncommon for businesses to cut their advertising budget, which in the end, will cause more harm than good. Some of the easiest variable expenses to cut out are advertising costs, an act that takes a bad situation and makes it worse. When your business drops and you take action to stop the flow even more, you are doomed. Be smarter with your marketing and adopt a strategy that gives you the most bang for your buck.
WHY B&E MAKES SENSE
B&E publishes two full color resource guides for the Puget Sound area. Unlike placing an ad in a magazine or a newspaper which a reader may only look at once, the Wedding & Event Resource Guides remain on the desks and in the hands of party and event planners all year round. When its time to plan an event, our readers faithfully and continually use the Wedding & Event Resource Guides to begin their search for qualified wedding & event services. And with our free online resource, banquetevent.com, all (and we do mean all, not just a portion) of the information that you'll find in the Guides, is also just a mouse click away. So think of it this way, advertising in a B&E Resource Guides is equivalent to paying for a full year of ads in a magazine, but at the rate of one month!
To help you compare B&E with other event planning marketing outlets, check out our comparison chart below. Let's say you have a budget of $4000. How much advertising can you get for your budget?
Yesterday, this blog was featured in an article by Meetings And Conventions magazine and recognized as one of the top blogs for meeting & event planners. The exact verbiage states: "There's an excess of advice, trend spotting and pontification by and for planners on the web, but the insightful blogs described below consistently are worth reading."
Special thanks to all of our readers. We look forward to bringing you more great business and event planning tips and tricks!
Click here to read the full article and see who else made the list!
Rich beauty, sumptuous restaurants, monumental views, rich history and culture, a variety of accommodations, stunning outdoor recreation… Washington’s Capital Cities invite you to discover their abundance.
Since 1989, Espresso Elegance has provided Seattle and Portland with the finest espresso catering. Add a touch of class to any occasion by reserving today!
We strive to create professional, fun, energy filled, unforgettable events by infusing each celebration with the perfect mixture of the talent, creativity, expertise, interaction, and FUNERGY!
Where art and nature meet. Explore the possibilities of a place where urban sophistication meets outdoor adventure, where cutting edge art meets spectacular mountains and open waters.
Whether it's a business meeting, wedding or any other type of social gathering, your event demands the right ingredients like the right environment, a touch of something special and, of course, spectacular food.
A jewel in the heart of Tacoma’s Dome District, The Best Western Tacoma Dome Hotel offers Banquet and Meeting Space which can accommodate 10 to 150 guests.
Located in downtown Bellevue, Lincoln Square Cinemas is the Northwest’s premier cinema experience, offering first-run films with first-rate presentation and service for your own private screening or group event.
Troupe Hipnotica Tribal Belly Dance can transform any event into a festive and mysterious jouney with their unique fusion of entrancing dances set to global music.
You didn't think that was it did you? Check back later this week for more newbies at banquetevent.com!
At banquetevent.com we are continually adding new businesses and services to our site to assure that it is the most comprehensive event planning tool around. Here are just a few of the new businesses we've just added. Just click on the business name to learn more.
Colorific Kids Face Painting, Airbrush Tattoos, Hawaiian Shaved Ice, and make your own Sandy Candy Wands. Get one or all for your next event! See us at brecky.com.
Warrlight Engraving We specialize in custom etched, hand painted wine bottles for anniversaries, birthdays, corporate events and awards, weddings or any other special occasion you would like to remember.
Bottom Line Duo Take a break from hi-tech, pummel your senses modernity by giving your event a world class, organic, and old meets new world atmosphere.
Vince Van Vandervander The improvisational comedy stylings of Vince Van Vandervander come to life as audience members attempt to win prizes, glory, and fame.
Stella Color For years Stella Color in Seattle has been printing and producing large format digital projects for a variety of clients.
Sneak Peek: Attend the 2008 Northwest Event Show Tomorrow And Receive the 2009 Event Resource Guide - FREE!
That's right, just by attending the 2008 Northwest Event Show tomorrow at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center, you'll receive the 2009 Event Resource Guide as our complimentary gift ($14.95 value). The Event Resource Guide is jam-packed with tools and resources for the event planner in the Pacific Northwest. From caterers to venues to entertainers and speakers, the Event Resource Guide has it all.
B&E has published the Event Resource Guide for over a decade, but the 2009 edition is our first to be printed in full color. And we don't mean to brag or anything, but it's our best guide EVER!
Those that don't attend the Northwest Event Guide will have to wait for their copy, so come to the show and get yours hot of the press.
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Highlight: Robinson Designs & Events
When you want to transform a room, decorate for a theme or style, or just create that one magical focal point for your ceremony or reception, call Robinson Design & Events!
Robinson Designs & Events, artists, designers, fabricators...long respected members of the Pacific Northwest event community, offers full-service décor for all kinds of social and corporate events. Our goal is to surprise and delight their clients and their guests.
Each year at the Northwest Event Show, Robinson Designs & Events creates new themed environments that simple amaze us. We can't wait to see what they come up with this year.
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Highlight: Hollywood Lighting Inc. & PNTA
Don't you just love options? One of the greatest parts about the 2008 Northwest Event Show is that it presents you with so many qualified businesses and services that will meet your needs. Two of our sponsors, Hollywood Lighting Inc. and PNTA, for example, can take your event to new levels with regards to event production, lighting, sound, staging, and design. Just come to the Northwest Event Show, this upcoming Tuesday, for just a taste of what these two incredible companies can do.
A little more about them:
Hollywood Lighting has been a staple of the Northwest Event Show for many years, and each year they continue to amaze with their creativity and knowledgeable staff. Talk to anyone in the business and you'll learn that Hollywood Lighting will exceed your expectations. In 1994, they opened a Seattle office to service rentals and sales for the area. Today, they have a 9200 square foot showroom and warehouse between Safeco Field and Boeing Field. The showroom will make more supplies, expendables and equipment available for rental and sales to the theater, church and event community of Puget Sound. In 2002 they opened a Production Lighting Department in Seattle and now provide those services to the theater and corporate world.
PNTA may be new to the Northwest Event Show this year, but they are certainly not new to the world of event production. From their humble beginning in 1975 as the local, Seattle-area supplier of theatrical equipment and consumables, PNTA has expanded our staff and capabilities over the years to provide a wealth of services for customers across the country. While they still sell supplies and equipment for the theatrical and entertainment industries, now they do it both online and at their spacious new warehouse location at 615 S. Alaska Street. They also rent and repair equipment. PNTA's technical service people are experts at integrating and retrofitting system components to keep lighting control, sound and special effects equipment up and running. They also provide theatrical drapes and soft goods. Corporate, non-profit and private clients alike choose PNTA’s Event Services to help them host memorable events with a flair for the dramatic and a watchful eye to the details.
Come see these two incredible companies at the Northwest Event Show, September 23 at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center. Register NOW!
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Highlight: MTM Luxury Lodging
MTM Luxury Lodging manages the Puget Sound's most unique, boutique hotels. Each of their properties are designed and shaped to blend with its natural surroundings. Some of their properties sit in the center of city, while others are surrounded by vineyards or water. No matter the property, each MTM Luxury Lodging venue will match the match the vision for your next event perfectly. And lucky for us, they have gathered together as a sponsor for the 2008 Northwest Event Show, giving you the opportunity to learn more about their offerings.
Meet the Group:
Nestled on the scenic shores of Hood Canal just two hours from Seattle, Washington, Alderbrook Resort & Spa is a world away from the everyday. Our newly renovated resort offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, state-of-the-art conference and event facilities, a full service spa, and a first-class restaurant. And it's all in one convenient - not to mention breath taking - location. It's no wonder Alderbrook has become the Northwest's premier destination for both leisure travelers and conference retreat planners.
Poised 900 feet above the Columbia River, Cave B Inn at SageCliffe is surrounded by estate vineyards, fragrant orchards and thought-provoking beauty. Intimate in nature, experiential by design, Cave B was created to celebrate those things which elevate and refresh us, providing an enriching environment where guests can experience firsthand the power of the land. Comprised of 30 guestrooms, including 15 finely appointed Cliffehouses, and our new swimming pool, accommodations offer breathtaking views of sky, water, canyon and vineyard.
The epitome of Seattle’s high-tech reputation, Hotel 1000 quickly established itself as the premier luxury hotel in downtown Seattle. Intimate and customized service joined with modern convenience is equally appealing to both leisure and business travelers setting the foundation for the hotels growing customer loyalty. Having celebrated just one year of operation at summer’s end 2007, Hotel 1000 now leads the market in rate and RevPAR. Discover the many distinctive qualities that differentiate Hotel 1000: from fully integrated, wired-to-serve technology to intimate, soothing, residential design to delightful surprises — a bathtub that fills from the ceiling and artwork that meets your personal preference.
Gracing downtown with its breathtaking Italianate architecture for a century, the Sorrento is an oasis of luxury, and one of Seattle’s most recognized and cherished landmarks. Overlooking the downtown city skyline, the Sorrento is a most unique upscale hotel offering an intimate setting of 76 guestrooms and suites as well as 6 banquet, meeting, and event rooms. As the longest running luxury hotel in Seattle, and recognized as the “grand dame” of Seattle, the Sorrento is defined by legendary hospitality, living up to its reputation as one of the finest hotel destinations in Seattle.
With its massive fireplace, Northwest ambiance, luxurious beds and five acres of magical gardens, Willows Lodge is a celebration of the senses where guests feel pampered and revived. Just a 20 minute drive from Seattle and a short stroll from award winning wineries, the 84-room rustic retreat offers a host of civilized comforts, including a full-service spa and two of the most highly-rated restaurants in the Northwest — The Herbfarm Restaurant and the Barking Frog. The unique ambiance of the Lodge adds an extra dimension of charm to all occasions, while our five acres of gardens lend themselves to truly unforgettable events.
The Woodmark Hotel, Yacht Club & Spa is a luxury lakeside hotel located in Kirkland WA, just minutes away from Seattle, WA. As the only hotel on the shores of Lake Washington, this east of Seattle hotel showcases shoreline views of the Seattle skyline and Olympic Mountains. The Woodmark Hotel and world class Spa embraces travelers with the charm of a private residence combining intimacy and elegance. Prominently set within the Carillon Point waterfront community east of Seattle, the Woodmark Hotel is near shopping, galleries, and tourist destinations; and minutes from major corporate offices including Microsoft, Google, T-Mobile and AT&T. Downtown Seattle is just a 15 minute drive with easy freeway access.
The Northwest Event Show Partners with PCMA and MPI Meetings Industry Summit
MEETING THE CHALLENGEGaining... Networking... Sharing7th Annual Meetings Industry Summit
For the first time in the show's history, the Northwest Event Show will be held in conjunction with the 7th Annual Meetings Industry Summit, hosted by MPI and PCMA.
One day. Two spectacular events!
Location: Washington State Convention & Trade Center Schedule: 7:30am - 8:00am: Check-In & Networking 8:00am - 11:30am: Breakfast and Program 11:00am - 5:00pm: Tour the Northwest Event Show Floor and enjoy all the delicious samples Cost: $75 for Summit, Pre-registration is required, Free to attend the Northwest Event Show For a student discount, please email Jessica@apulent.com
Come network with Industry leaders and experts and participate in interactive discussions on the hottest industry trends.
Keynote Speaker: Enabling Change with George Myers, Partner Effectiveness Institute
Also Featuring: Tom Norwalk, President and CEO of Seattle's Convention & Visitors Bureau presents "State of the Industry"
Panel of Industry Experts include: Moderator: Michael McQuade, Director of Sales & Marketing, Washington State Convention and Trade Center Panelists: Richard Moore, Co-Founder TPN Events Jeanne Berry, Principal, RealTime Productions Debra Vasseur, Travel and Meetings Manager, Starbucks Coffee Company Rachel Hall, Operations Manager, Hollywood Lighting Services
Thank You to the Summit's Presenting Sponsors: Aramark Blue Danube Hollywood Lighting PJ Hummel & Company, Inc The Extreme Group The Production Network Washington State Convention & Trade Center WestCoast Drape
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Highlight: Stella Color
We'd like to introduce you to another newbie at the Northwest Event Show this year, Stella Color. At Stella Color, it's all about making big ideas come to life, and doing it with eco-friendly techniques.
Stella Color has been a leader in the digital large format print industry since 1988, and is now helping to lead the way in exploring eco-friendly green printing processes in the large format digital printing world.
They offer a broad variety of digitally printed products and services. They print and produce convention and trade show displays, exhibit displays, indoor and outdoor signage, custom wall coverings for business and home, poster printing, advertising graphics, custom window displays, retail wall displays, vinyl vehicle graphics, and much more!
All of the signage at the 2008 Northwest Event Show will be printed by Stella Color, so we urge you to pay special attention to their quality and start thinking about the ways you can utilize Stella's services for own events or business needs.
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Highlight: WestCoast Drape
We are pleased to welcome WestCoast Drape as an exhibitor in the Northwest Event Show for the first time. Drape and fabric has the ability to turn an ordinary room into an extraordinary display of creativity and design. With WestCoast Drape your options are truly limitless.
On New Year’s Day 2006 Wes Walterman, opened WestCoast Drape with an idea of creating a premier drape company. Walterman joined forces with Scott Galloway as VP of Operations and Sales to develop and honor standards of product value, business integrity, and customer service designed to eclipse the competition. From their home base in Portland, Oregon, they began working to set a new standard in pipe and drape rental. Today, WestCoast Drape has seven satellite offices throughout the western United States including Seattle, Phoenix, Portland, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego, and San Francisco.
WestCost Drape is the official drape provider for the 2008 Northwest Event Show. They will also be on hand to answer your questions and showcase their impressive portfolio and stock fabrics.
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Hightlight: PJ Hummel & Co.
One of the best things about the Northwest Event Show is our amazing sponsor lineup. We have the best of the best in event design, production and execution in the business. And for one day, they all come together to show off their stuff. This week and next, we'll be introducing you to sponsors one by one, so you can get a head start in knowing which exhibitors are the ones you need to look for first.
Today, we'd like to highlight PJ Hummel & Co., one of the best known event decorators in the area today. PJ Hummel & Company, Inc. is an award-winning event décor and production company—creating impressive special events for private and corporate clients. A one-stop shop for your entire event design needs. In today’s world of doing more with less, you need to get maximum return on your event investment. With PJ Hummel, the only limitation you have is your imagination.
PJ Hummel & Company strives to provide the finest event design and décor, delivered with impeccable style and grace. Each event is carefully planned with a purpose to create unforgettable tangible experiences.
PJ Hummel & Company has been collecting authentic props, antiques, and theme décor for over 30 years. The company’s design studio and magical themed warehouse is located in Tacoma, WA on the Middle Waterway. PJ Hummel & Company’s magical themed prop warehouse makes the company unique. An interactive space with over 15,000 square feet, filled with ideas and promises of dreams to be. The Company’s warehouse is open to clients to experience and explore. A total of 10 multi-sensory vignettes are set for clients to view and touch, including lighting and special effects.
Look for PJ's designs the moment you walk into the registration lobby of the Northwest Event Show and also in the center of the show floor as she and her team of professionals create a stunning "rest area" for you to kick back and relax after a day of fun and eating!
But wait, have you registered yet? If not, head over to nweventshow.com and register today. Only those that pre-registered will receive validation for free parking!
Only three weeks now until the 2008 Northwest Event Show takes place at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center on September 23. Have you registered yet? If not, here are just a few of the reasons why you should...
It's 100% free to attend. That's right, the Northwest Event Show is free for all qualified meeting and event planners. Heck, even if you only plan one event a year, or have never planned an event before but have a major one coming up, this show is for you!
Not only is it free, but we'll also give you free stuff! Just for attending the show you'll receive the 2009 B&E Event Resource Guide as our complimentary gift. The guide retails for $14.95 in bookstores, and truly is the most comprehensive planning tool around. The best part is, the 2009 edition will be in FULL COLOR for the first time ever. And you'll be receiving it hot of the press!
The Northwest Event Show is occurring in conjunction with the 2008 SUMMIT INDUSTRY Meeting, also a first. If you are planning on attending the SUMMIT you'll get two great shows on one day.
You'll learn the latest Green Event Planning Tips. This year's event is going green and we have the best ideas and inspirations in town so you can plan greener events too.
Chances to win three weekend getaways to Skamania Lodge, Suncadia Resort, and Sunriver Resort complete with the royal treatment.
The exhibitors are top-notch! With over 250 booths you'll never get another chance like this to meet with the area's top event planning professionals, in one place, on one day. They are the best of the best in design, catering, entertainment, team building and more!
All the food your belly can take, and then a little more. You'll get to sample the best food Northwest caterers have to offer. It's definitely not a day to wear tight pants!
Have we convinced you yet? If so, head on over to nweventshow.com and register for the 2008 Northwest Event Show! You cannot afford to miss this spectacular event!
We read a recent article in the Business Journal featuring an interview with a catering director named Franck Mannechez out of San Antonio, Texas. Frank is also the president of NACE (National Association of Catering Executives) an organization that is very well known here in the Northwest. We found it to be interesting that the same trends happening in a different part of the country also seem to be showing up in the Northwest.
We have included snippets of the interview below.
Q. What is the latest food trend that catering customers are demanding today?
A. No more junk food! Consumers are looking for more locally grown foods and support a healthier environment and a healthier lifestyle. People want food that is convenient, fills them up, tastes good and is not fattening.
Q. For a long time, it was chicken, chicken, chicken. Now it's beef, beef, beef. What's up with that?
A. I think people have finally passed the stage of being afraid of beef. We don't hear anything anymore about Mad Cow.
Q. What is the latest decorating trend in catering today?
A. Lighting! It is amazing what a few spotlights can do to a room. You can match the color of the light either with your centerpieces or your linen, and it will accentuate the color -- making it look even more beautiful. Your room will suddenly have a new dimension.
Q. What is your favorite meal to serve for a business event?
A. Everybody has their own favorite meal that they like to serve at every event because it has a great flavor or it is easy to serve. My personal favorite is a mixed grille of tenderloin of beef medallion with forest mushroom sauce and quartet of gulf shrimp baked in pistachio butter. For a business event, though, it is a little different because you have to consider many factors in order to serve the "right food." Factors range from theme, nutritional preferences, allergies, to event length.
Q. How are caterers dealing with the increased food and transportation costs? Are they raising prices or tweaking other parts of their business?
A. Every catering event is a negotiation and a relationship, and you have to find out what is important to the client first. If cost is not a factor, then it is easy; if it is, we will have to guide the client towards what would be the best for their budget and our costs. Here at the Dominion Country Club we are holding on raising prices. Instead we are trying to negotiate with our fellow NACE (National Association of Catering Executives) members, making deals to help cut some costs and at the same time give them more business. With increased pressure on our nation's food suppliers, though, eventually the rising costs will be passed on to the end user.
We were recently informed of this great idea for an upcoming event in Seattle by one of our clients, Foodz Catering. If you love to cook and think you have what it takes to join the chefs of Foodz Catering in a friendly cooking competition, join the "Iron Chef Acalia" competition. Just like the Food Network show, Iron Chef, a secret ingredient will be revealed and the two teams lead by Chef Shelby and Chef Sarah will decide what dishes to prepare on the spot.
After all the items have been created the food will be presented to the panel of judges including Seattle's Kathy Casey. Sign up online at www.foodzcatering.com or call (206) 297 - 9634 to learn more. Entrance fee is $ 75.00 Foodz Catering will also be on hand at the 2008 Northwest Event Show. Come check out their booth to see what is new for 2008 in catering like their newest outdoor concept: "The Satay Bar."
Have you heard about Pandora? It's the best new way to listen to music while you work. All you do is go to www.pandora.com, enter your favorite artist and a playlist will begin starting with a song from the artist of your choice. Then the next songs that play will be customized to predict the kind of music you like to listen to. Once a song begins to play, you can give it the "thumbs up" or the "thumbs down" and the more you rate music, the more Pandora knows what you like. Think of Pandora as a TiVo for music.
Pandora came from the Music Genome Project. Since they started back in 2000, they have been hard at work on the Music Genome Project. It's the most comprehensive analysis of music ever undertaken. Together their team of fifty musician-analysts have been listening to music, one song at a time, studying and collecting literally hundreds of musical details on every song. It takes 20-30 minutes per song to capture all of the little details that give each recording its magical sound - melody, harmony, instrumentation, rhythm, vocals, lyrics ... and more - close to 400 attributes! Pandora continues this work every day to keep up with the incredible flow of great new music coming from studios, stadiums and garages around the country.
The best part about Pandora, is its all free and you can make as many playlists as you'd like.
You can also download Pandora to select phones available through AT&T and Sprint including the apple iPhone.
It is our pleasure to announce Tillicum Village’s participation in the Native American Honor Days 2008. Tillicum Village is offering a special sailing today, the 20th of August at 4:30 p.m. and the 24th of August at 11:30 a.m. to help celebrate this special occasion. Along with the traditional Tillicum Village salmon feast and dance ceremony, they are delighted to offer an Honor Circle Ceremony and the opportunity to sign a petition to make Native American Honor Day a national holiday. On these special days, there is an extraordinary rate offered of $59.00 per adult.
Tonight, there is a special performance by the TwoBirdz Singers drum group, and on the 24th Native American Flute Player Michelle Grace will be featured. In addition, there will be a special art exhibit for viewing on the island. Tillicum asks that you pass on this information to your friends, family, and coworkers; or anyone you know as we would love to have them celebrate this event with us. Please call ahead and make reservations as spots are filling up fast.
Contact Information:Tillicum Village & Tours Inc 2992 SW Avalon Way Seattle, WA 98198 (206) 933-8600, (800) 426-1205 Fax: (206) 933-9377 www.tillicumvillage.com
In three years the Boeing Classic has established itself as one of the top stops on the Tour for sponsor/spectator attendance, player experiences and charitable dollars raised, raising over $2.4 million for Greater Seattle charities including The Heart Institute at Virginia Mason Medical Center, The First Tee of Greater Seattle, and the Nutrition and Fitness for Life Program.
The Boeing Classic made history in it’s third year, with a 7 man play off on Sunday afternoon- naming Denis Watson the 2007 Champion. No other PGA Tour, Champions Tour or Nationwide Tour has had more than a 5 man play off.
The tour returns to the TPC Snoqualmie Ridge August 18 - 24, 2008, with the field vying for $1.6 million purse. Ticket Prices: Daily Grounds Pass: $20 Tournament Pass: $40 Weekly Pass: $60
There are some things that we come across that just crack us up and this is definitely one of them. Meet zeralights, the creators of fiber optic fashion accessories. That's right, just like their website says, zeralights brings sparkle to fashion accessories.
Zeralights is the creative inspiration of Barbara Sears Nelson, a Colorado native who currently lives in Denver. After multitude attempts, the day finally dawned allowing her to market her own creations combining sparkle design with products made from Luminex fiber optic fabric.
Now, while the actual fashion accessories are a bit "out there" we do however like the options zeralights offers for events. Check out the below table and chair linens and wine glass accessory.
Kimpton Hotels has given their "Pick Your Perks" program a makeover and have made the commitment to be environmentally and socially responsible with their newly implemented Great Meetings Great Causes Program. By booking a meeting at one of the Kimpton Hotel facilities, you will reap the benefits of eco-minded rewards that you and the planet will appreciate. Book your next meeting and pick TWO of the following:
A $100 donation to one of Kimpton Hotels' national corporate social responsibility partners (Trust for Public Land, Red Ribbon Campaign or Dress for Success) OR to the corporate social responsibility partner of your choice
A complimentary meeting upgrade with one of the following:
- Eco Signature Meeting - Full breakfast - Complimentary organic morning or afternoon break
One complimentary night at any eco-friendly Kimpton Hotel
A $50 gift certificate to Kimpton Style
A Greensender.com box to help anyone get started or continue incorporating green practices into their daily lives.
A $105 donation to environmental organizations to offset carbon use.
You name the best way you think we can work together to best serve the community and the planet. Our hotels and restaurants will do their very best to accommodate your request.
Click below for more information on one of Seattle's Kimpton Hotels.
Auctions have more than gained momentum over the past few years. Although many companies have been using auctions for many years, due in large part to the popularity of Ebay and their on-line auctions, the growth of companies and organizations turning to auctions for revenue involvement has more than tripled.
Most auctions can be pretty simple and are believed to date back to Babylon in 500 B.C. What are they? Simply put an auction is the process of buying and selling things by offering them up for bid, taking bids, and then selling the item to the highest bidder
In economic theory, an auction is a method for determining the value of a commodity that has an undetermined or variable price. Auctions can be with reserve or minimum, or without minimums, or absolute or no reserve. In reserve auctions, there is a minimum bid or reserve price; if the bidding does not reach the minimum, there is no sale (but the person who puts the item up for auction may still owe a fee to the auctioneer or auction company). In absolute or no reserve auctions, the sale is guaranteed, with only the price left to be determined. In the context of auctions, a bid is an offered price.
Primary types of auctions
In terms of security/privacy, there are two main types of auctions:
Private auction: In a private auction the identities of the bidders are hidden, so anyone that buys the item can remain anonymous. This is normally done for either security reasons such as rare gems or art, or to avoid embarrassment if the item is more risk. In a public auction, the bidders' identities are not hidden and anyone is welcome to attend the auction.
Public auction: In a public auction, the bidders’ identities are not hidden and anyone is welcome to attend the auction
Breaking Down the Most Popular Auction Options
Vickrey auction A Vickrey auction is a type of sealed-bid auction, where bidders submit written bids without knowing the bid of the other people in the auction. The highest bidder wins, but the price paid is the second highest bid. The auction is believed to have been created by William Vickrey. This type of auction is strategically similar to an English auction, and gives bidders an incentive to bid their true value.
English auction This is the type of auction commonly used by the English auction houses like Sotheby's, Christie's, and Phillips. Participants bid openly against one another, with each bid being higher than the previous bid. The auction ends when no participant is willing to bid further, or when a pre-determined "buy-out" price is reached, at which point the highest bidder pays the price. The seller may set a 'reserve' price and if the auction fails to have a bid equal to or higher than the reserve, the item remains unsold.
Chinese auction Basically, a raffle.
Dutch auction In the traditional Dutch auction the auctioneer begins with a high asking price, which is lowered until some participant is willing to accept the auctioneer's price, or a predetermined minimum price is reached. That winning participant pays the last announced price. The Dutch auction is named for its best-known example, the Dutch tulip auctions. ("Dutch auction" is also sometimes used to describe online auctions where several identical goods are sold simultaneously to an equal number of high bidders.
All-pay auction An auction in which all bidders must pay their bids regardless of whether they win the prize. The highest bidder wins the prize. The all-pay auction is often used to model lobbying (bids are political contributions), or other competitions.
Sealed Bid Auctions
Sealed-bid first-price auction Also known as Sealed High-Bid Auction or First-Price Sealed-Bid Auction (FPSB). In this type of auction all bidders simultaneously submit bids so that no bidder knows the bid of any other participant. The highest bidder pays the price they submitted.
Sealed-bid second-price auction, also known as a Vickrey auction: This is identical to the sealed first-price auction, except the winning bidder pays the second highest bid rather than their own. This is very similar to the system used by eBay.
Silent Auctions Where bids are written on a sheet of paper, and at the predetermined end of the auction, the highest listed bidder wins the prize. This auction variant is often used in charity events, and many items may be auctioned simultaneously. Participants submit bids normally on paper, near the item. Other variations of this type of auction may include sealed bids. The highest bidder pays the price he or she submitted.
Auction Catalog An auction catalog is a catalog that lists items to be sold at an auction. Each entry typically includes a "lot number" identifying each item uniquely, a detailed textual description, and either an estimated price, or a "reserve" price below which the item will not be sold. Photographs may appear with the entry, or grouped into a separate section of the catalog; for mass-produced items like postage stamps, the textual description may be considered sufficient.
As a combined information source and "sales brochure", an auction catalog must tread a fine line between accuracy and promotion. For instance, any damages or flaws must be described exactly, so that buyers cannot be claim to have been deceived, but at the same time the description will typically include words playing down the bad points (as in "brownish spot that does not detract from appearance" or "faint crease, as is common"). Similarly, special characteristics are also called out, such as "one of only four known examples of this type", or perhaps a photograph of an item of jewelry being worn by a famous person.
Auction catalogs may be sent gratis to favored customers, but the better catalogs will cost, sometimes as much or more than a regular book. These kinds of catalogs may in turn be sold by bookstores, or even appear as items in book auctions.
Some time after the auction is concluded, recipients of the auction catalogs will receive a "prices realized" document, a bare listing of the lot numbers and the prices for which each was sold.
On-line auctions……King of the Hill: eBay
When one thinks of online auctions they typically think of eBay, the world's largest online auction site. Like most auction companies, eBay does not actually sell goods that it owns itself. It merely facilitates the process of listing and displaying goods, bidding on items, and paying for them. It acts as a marketplace for individuals and businesses that use the site to auction off goods and services. EBay was the first company to popularize the notion of conducting an auction over the Internet. The auction software that EBay uses is proprietary and not available to the general public.
Using Mission Fish as an arbiter, eBay allows sellers to donate a portion of their auction proceeds to a charity of the seller's choice. Some high profile charity auctions have been advertised on the eBay home page, and have raised large amounts of money in a short time.
Auction Houses If you prefer to have professionals setup and run your auction, then you will need to find an Auction House. No matter where you live, auction houses are always around and have been as long as auctions have been held. Remember auctions were more popular in the mid-twentieth century than they are now.
Auctioneers There is usually always a need to consider a professional Auctioneer. Even if you decide to setup and create your own auction in-house, keep in mind that good auctioneers can bring much higher prices, for profit or charity proceeds than an amateur.
The party employing the auctioneer pays a commission regardless of whether he or she procures a sale, unless the auctioneer is responsible for the failure of the sale. The auctioneer is entitled to a reasonable sum unless a statute or contract provision determines the amount.
Depending upon what type of auction you are considering, a good place to look for additional information on auctions and auctioneers is Answers.com and Wikipedia.
Be sure to check out the 2009 Event Resource Guide, available at the 2008 Northwest Event Show. A special new section on auctioneers has been added to our collection!
Hey all you iPhone users....Did you know your iPhone can actually help you save gas by tracking your mileage. In this day and age, we are all penny-pinchers. Wherever we can save a few extra dollars we try to take advantage of it. There are three applications available for your iPhone that can actually help put money back in your pocket. Here are our favorites...
AccuFuel Fuel Efficiency Tracker - Monitor fuel use by tracking how your driving habits affect your fuel efficiency. You can even track more than one car.
Price $0.99
CarStat - CarStat is a replacement for that little white book that all of our dads used to keep track of the car's mileage. Anytime you fillup your car or take it in for service, record what was done. You can then have CarStat compute a number of different stats on the data.
Price: $1.99
FuelGauge - FuelGauge is a simple little app that does about what you would expect, it helps you keep track of the milage you are getting out of your vehicle. The Miles Per Gallon.
Save the Date: Social Media Conference NW 2008 - The New Word of Mouth Marketing
Social Media Conference NW 2008 - The New Word of Mouth Marketing Date: Sept 10 & 11, 2008 Location: Whatcom Community College 237 Kellogg Road Bellingham WA 98225 Contact: Tami Eastwood, 360-733-4014, ext. 111 or Tami.Eastwood@wwu.edu URL: www.socialmediaconferencenw.com
Whatcom Community College, Bellingham, WA 'Word-of-Mouth Marketing has expanded from the town square to the digital village. The "buzz" about your business is now online, measurable, search able, and permanent. Come to learn why you must and how you can participate in the conversations that are your market. Explore how your business or organization can benefit from this marketing opportunity and take it to the next level. Hear from leading social media marketing pioneers and practitioners. Walk away with practical plans and resources. This conference organized by Western Washington University's Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the Technology Alliance Group (TAG), and Whatcom Community College has been designed for small-to-medium businesses and organizations interested in learning how to use social media to generate revenue. The conference, held at the Whatcom Community College campus in Bellingham WA, will feature six plenary sessions and 21 breakout sessions featuring presentations, discussions and hands-on labs. A few of these include: bottom-line reasons for businesses to blog; social-media research and marketing strategies; podcasting, vodcasting, and crosscasting; bulletproofing your organization for social media; the risks of ignoring social media; Google adwords; building online communities that matter most to your business; and ways to determine return-on-investment for social-media efforts. Early registration is $198 until Aug. 27, and $275 after that. To register for the conference or to learn more go to http://www.socialmediaconferencenw.com/ or contact Tami Eastwood at the Small Business Development Center at (360) 733-4014, ext. 111. Tickets are limited. Sign up early to secure a seat!
Once you find the perfect vendor for your event, the next step is to negotiate a contract. Here are some tips and considerations during this process.
NEGOTIATION AND CONTRACTS Facility negotiations sound serious, but they don't have to be intimidating. These are important conversations because negotiations build relationships, which will lead to contracts. Contracts are serious business and when you, as a planner, enter into a contract, you want to be sure you have all the knowledge and information you need. Keep in mind that negotiable items and practices vary between areas of the country, so what may be standard procedure on the East Coast is not necessarily the same on the West Coast.
HOMEWORK PAYS OFF! Before you begin negotiating, you need some tools! If you have done your homework (refer to the first section), you'll be set! You need your meeting profile or prospectus, a history of your meeting or event, the value of your meeting to the facility (your budget), and a profile of your group. If you know your requirements, they will dictate the specific items you can negotiate.
NEGOTIATIONS SHOULD BE WIN-WIN Don't get bogged down in sleeping room rates! Rates are only one item that can be negotiated. The list of negotiable items may be as long as you want ...it never hurts to ask! But, in order to have a successful meeting, negotiations should be a win-win process. For example, if you get the hotel to provide complimentary meeting room space, but in order to afford this, the hotel cuts back on service staff for your meeting...who wins?
CONTRACTS The most important things to remember are that contracts should be written with an equal amount of risk for both parties, and that all your discussions are put into writing so there will be no confusion when it's time for your event.
We think you'll love the DIY website creator, Wetpaint. Wetpaint lets you build a rich, online community around whatever-it-is that you’re really into. Utilizing the best features of wikis, blogs, forums and social networks, Wetpaint mixes everything you need so you can create, collect, and organize content on your own social website. The best part is you can create a completely advanced and sophisticated website and it's all FREE. What better way to chronicle your upcoming event than to build a community around your efforts and allow other event planners to pitch in?
If you don't feel like building your own website, you can also join a pre-existing site that is already created by another person with your same interests. Just use the search box up in the top right-hand corner and see who’s already started a page around any particular topic you would like to get involved in. Wetpaint is a great way to connect with other event planners and share ideas and experiences.
Click the video below to learn more about Wetpaint...
Living green is really about taking advantage of alternative methods of doing everyday activities. Whenever we hear about a new and improved way of doing ordinary things, we just have to share them with you. We recently heard about a company based out of Orange County California that is changing the way families and business pack and move to new locations. Meet EarthFriendlyMoving, the do-it-yourself pack and move solution that allows you to rent packing eco-friendly packing supplies. EarthFriendlyMoving recycles all of those hard-to-recycle colorful plastic bottles from under your kitchen sink, laundry room and garage shelves- like bleach bottles, household cleaning products, dishwashing and laundry detergent to make the famous: RecoPack™
The word RecoPack™ is short for "Recycled Ecological Packing Solution." Made in five consumer friendly sizes, these lightweight, stackable containers are rented to relocating households for a buck a box per week.
Following the move, the Recopacks are picked-up at customers’ new home by a fleet of vegetable oil powered trucks, cleaned, sanitized and then rented out to another customer.
EarthFriendlyMoving is currently operating in Orange County and Long Beach, and will expand throughout Southern California and then nation wide over the next three years. To learn more about EarthFriendlyMoving, click here.
Since Seattle and other Northwest cities like Bremerton and Everett rest along the shores of the Puget Sound, we have the opportunity to watch cargo ships enter and leave our ports, attributing to our area's economy. Our offices are located in West Seattle, so each day we drive parallel to Elliott Bay where hundreds of goods are transported each day. With as much action as our waters undergo, one has to wonder what effect each ship has on our environment. Recently we came across something quite unique that could change the way cargo ships travel from port to port. Meet SkySails. That's right, just like a sailboat moves through the waters by the force of wind against its sails, now the same energy source is being used to move large vessels.
It's a simple fact: wind is cheaper than oil and the most cost-effective offshore energy source. Yet, despite its attractive saving potential, it is not presently being used by cargo ships - for a simple reason: so far no sailing system has met the requirements of commercial shipping.
SkySails is now offering a wind propulsion system based on large towing kites, which, for the first time, meets the requirements of shipping companies. By using the SkySails-System, a ship‘s fuel costs can be reduced by 10- 35% on annual average, depending on wind conditions. Under optimal wind conditions, fuel consumption can temporarily be reduced by up to 50%.
So the next time you drive past a water port, be on the lookout for a "sailing" ship. You never know what the wind might bring.
LeMay – America’s Car Museum® will hold the 31st Annual LeMay Museum Car Show & Auction, presented by AAA Washington, at the Marymount Academy and the LeMay grounds in Tacoma, WA on Saturday, August 30, 2008 from 9am to 5pm. Visitors will be able to see over 1,000 vintage, classic and specialty automobiles, trucks, and motorcycles from the LeMay Collection, plus hundreds of unique, local collector cars and other vehicles. In addition to the cars, there will be many interesting vendor displays, including our ever-popular "Flintmobile" photo car which makes for a memorable snapshot to take home! There will also be a classic car auction hosted on-site by Mathers Inc. Auctioneers. Entry donations are $10 for adults, $20 for a family of 4, $5 for children under 12, and $5 for active-duty military. Free parking will be available offsite with free shuttle bus transportation between the parking lots, the Marymount Academy and the LeMay grounds. For more information call (253) 536-2885.
Date & Time: August 30, 2008 9 am. to 5 p.m.
Location: LeMay's America's Car Museum 325 152nd St. E, Tacoma WA 98445 Contact Info: Phone: 253-779-8179 Contact Person: Trudy Cofchin Email: trudy@lemaymuseum.org Website: lemaymuseum.org
Have you ever wondered how green the hotels in Seattle are in comparison to each other? Now you can easily find this information available at RezHub.com. Hotels around the globe are making a huge effort to lower their energy and water usage, and reduce solid wastes. They are installing energy efficient lighting, low flow showers and toilets, participating in recycling programs, and contributing to the local communities. What's even better is whether you're looking for a luxury suite, or something a little more budget friendly there are green options for you and they are all reviewed for you with price comparisons in RezHub's Green Travel Hub section. You can also find information for other cities, plus search for Green Rental Cars, Green Flights and read the Green Travel Blog.
Check below for a quick comparison of the greenest hotels in Seattle.
Have you ever wondered which hotels in the Seattle area are the greenist?
In June, the City of Seattle launched a new program called Bike Smart Seattle, a campaign designed to encourage more Seattleites to ditch their cars for their two-wheeled rider. This summer Bike Smart Seattle will bring neighborhoods an exciting program of group rides, repair clinics, and special bike-oriented events to help Seattle residents overcome hesitations about cycling and promote it as a transportation option.
At its onset, Bike Smart will start in the northwest and central east sections of Seattle, but will eventually be implemented citywide. If you live in these areas, you may have already received a postcard that can be returned for a free bicycle kit containing a calendar of events, citywide bike map, safety information and other helpful materials.
“With the high price of gas and climate change concerns, bicycling should be a transportation option for local trips,” said Grace Crunican, director of SDOT. “Bike Smart Seattle will help create excitement about using bicycles to get around - whether going to the library, meeting a friend for coffee, or picking up groceries at a farmer’s market. As regular riders already understand, bicycling is a fun and healthy way to experience your neighborhood.”
For more information about Bike Smart Seattle, contact Serena Lehman at 206-957-4439.
The 2008 Northwest Event Show postcard invitations have been mailed and we want to make sure you received yours! If you didn't get your copy of the invitation, that means you are not on our list, which quite frankly, is a crying shame!
Join our network automatically by registering to attend the 2008 Northwest Event Show. You'll be added to our mailing list to receive all banquetevent.com updates and industry alerts. Be in the know from the very start!
You can also join our network by signing up to receive the 2008 Event Resource Guide. If you don't already have your copy, order yours soon, before the 2008 edition completely runs out, making way for the 2009 Event Resource Guide, which debuts September 23 at the Northwest Event Show. And stay tuned for a sneak peak at the cover of the 2009 Event Resource Guide...coming soon!
This Friday the newly priced and improved Apple iPhone 3G will be released featuring two size options, one 16 GB ($299) and one 8 GB ($199). With fast 3G wireless technology, maps with GPS, support for enterprise features like Microsoft® Exchange, and the new App Store, iPhone 3G puts even more amazing features in your hands. iPhone 3G also has a sleek new design and is available in black or white. And just like the original iPhone, it combines three products in one—a revolutionary phone, a widescreen iPod®, and a breakthrough Internet device with rich HTML email and full web browsing. According to Apple, this mobile device is the ideal phone for conducting business.
We're curious, of those who have already purchased the Apple iPhone, what are the features you like the most? Is it really as revolutionary as the ads say?
Weigh in below.
Click here to find out what you need to do before purchasing the Apple iPhone 3G.
Still undecided as to where you will spend the 4th of July. See what's happening in your neighborhood.
SEATTLE
WaMu Family 4th at Lake Union What: Daytime and evening activities include a spectacular fireworks show Location: Gas Works Park - 2101 N. Northlake Way, Seattle Cost: Free Website: familyfourth.org Time: Noon - 11 p.m.
Fourth of Jul-Ivar's What: Fireworks show Location: Elliott Bay - Myrtle Edwards Park, 3130 Alaskan Way W., Seattle Cost: Free Website: ivars.net Time: 10 p.m.
Museum of Flight's 27 Flags Show What: Aircraft fly-ins, children's activities, Wings of Freedom Bomber exhibit and picnic. When: July 1-5 Location: Museum of Flight, 9404 E. Marginal Way S., Seattle Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $7.50-$13 Website: www.museumofflight.org
Fourth of July bash What: Picnic buffet, dancing, karaoke, games, indoor and outdoor view of the Lake Union fireworks Time: 6:30 pm Location: Swedish Cultural Center - 1920 Dexter Ave. N., Seattle Cost: $33 adults, $12 ages 9 & younger RSVP: 206-523-9570
EASTSIDE
Bellevue Family 4th What: Family fun and fireworks Time: 10 pm for fireworks Location: Bellevue Downtown Park, 10201 N.E. Fourth St., Bellevue Cost: Free Parking: Free parking at Bellevue Square after 6 pm Website: www.bellevuedowntown.com
Kirkland 4th of July Festivities What: Fireworks Location: Juanita Marina Beach Park - 25 Lake Shore Plaza, Kirkland Time: 10 p.m. Website: www.ci.kirkland.wa.us
Fourth on the Plateau What: Fireworks Show Location: Sammamish Commons Park, 801 228th Ave. S.E., Sammamish Time: 10:15 p.m. Website: www.ci.sammamish.wa.us/4thjuly.aspx Carnation Celebration What: Fireworks Show Location: Tolt-MacDonald Park - Carnation Time: Dusk Website: www.carnation4th.org/
SOUTHEND
Fireworks Over Des Moines What: Fireworks Display Location: Des Moines Marina, 22307 Dock St., Des Moines Time: 10 p.m. Website: www.desmoineswa.gov
4th of July in Renton What: Fireworks display over Lake Washington Location: Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, 1201 Lake Washington Blvd., Renton Time: 10 p.m. Website: rentonwa.gov
Fourth of July Splash What: Fireworks display accompanied by Rainier Symphony Location: Lake Meridian Park, 14800 S.E. 272nd St., Kent Time: 10 p.m. Website: www.ci.kent.wa.us/arts
Red, White and Blues Festival What: Old-fashioned games, soccer, flag football, volleyball, preschoolers' play area, entertainment on two stages, food vendors, dance, fireworks display Location: Celebration Park, 1095 S. 324th St., Federal Way Time: 6-10:30 p.m. Website: www.cityoffederalway.com
Tacoma Freedom Fair and Air Show What: Outdoor market, international food fair, Lost Boys Pirate Cove children's activities, Camp Patriot to honor community heroes, car show, entertainment, fireworks display Location: Waterfront Park, Tacoma Time: 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Website: www.freedomfair.com
NORTHEND Family 4th of July What: Music, children's activities, food vendors, fireworks show at dusk Time: 7 - 10:30 p.m. Location: Evergreen Playfields, 22400 56th Ave. W., Mountlake Terrace Website: mltrec.com An Edmonds Kind of Fourth What: Fireworks show Location: Edmonds Civic Stadium and Playfield, Sixth Avenue North and Bell Street, Edmonds Time: 10 p.m. Website: www.edmondswa.com
Fourth of July Fireworks What: Parade with dancers, drill teams and musicians who represent world cultures; all-day festival with food, children's activities and music, fireworks show over Port Gardner Bay Time: 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Location: Legion Memorial Park, 145 Alverson Blvd. at Marine View Drive, Everett Website: www.everettwa.org
We love trivia. Here are some fun facts gathered from Pier 1 Imports about the 4th of July
Over 74 million families will barbecue on this day. Will your family be one of them? Who wears the apron in YOUR family?
Over 150 million hot dogs will be eaten on the Fourth. That’s one hot dog for every two Americans. Please make mine with mustard and onions.
The most popular sides at the 4th of July BBQ? Potato salad and baked beans.
Only two people signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, John Hancock and Charles Thomson. Most of the rest signed on August 2, but the last signature wasn't added until 5 years later.
John Adams and Thomas Jefferson both died within hours of each other on July 4, 1826.
The only American president born on the 4th of July was Calvin Coolidge (b. 1872).
The Liberty Bell weighs 2000 pounds and cost $225 to make.
In 1959, the very first Pepsi 400 race was held. This event is hosted by NASCAR every 4th of July or the Saturday of 4th of July weekend
In 1916, four immigrants are said to have been arguing who among them was most patriotic on this 4th of July. The four decided to settle the dispute with a hot dog eating contest, thus sparking the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest held annually on the 4th in Coney Island.
In 1870, Congress made July 4th a national, but unpaid, holiday for all federal employees.
America has its own places of patriotic pride, as shown by the multitude of places within the United States with patriotic names. For example, at least thirty cities include "liberty" in their names, such as Liberty, MO and Iowa's Libertyville, North Liberty, West Liberty and New Liberty. The United States also is home to thirty-two "Eagles," eleven "Independences," five "Freedoms," and even a "Patriot" (residing in Indiana).
Can you believe the 4th of July is only a few weeks away? There is not time like the present to start gathering ideas and making plans for America's favorite holiday. Here are a few simple tips to get your creativity and patriotism flowing...
It Don’t Mean a Thing if it Ain’t got a Theme! The best part about the 4th of July is that the color scheme and entertainment are already in place. You know you'll be decorating with red, white and blue, and of course you'll be watching fireworks, so a lot of the pressure of planning the details are relieved. All you have to do is get the decorations ready and plan the ultimate summer menu. When it comes to the 4th, you can't go overboard, so we say bring out the stripes and stars and go flag and streamer crazy.
Plan the Menu Did you know that on the 4th of July, 74 million families will barbecue their meal? You will probably contribute to that number so planning the ultimate BBQ meal is key. Prepare one or two meat offerings like southern-style sliced brisket, slabs of meaty baby back ribs or smoky-sweet chicken. Delicious sides like potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans and of course, corn-on-the-cob are traditional favorites. We also suggest making red and blue tinted cocktails for the adults and non-alcoholic kool-aid drinks for the kids. Head over to the Food Network and search under 4th of July for hundreds of recipes that you can easily prepare for groups large and small.
Take a Picnic to the Park These days many people live in townhouses and condos so throwing a backyard bbq is out of the question. But just because you don't have a backyard, doesn't mean you should spend the day indoors. Head outside and pack up a blanket, food, and decorations and head to a local park. Start the partying early in the day and organize a group softball, volleyball, or bocce ball game and then stay for the public fireworks. It will be a lot easier to find parking if you head out early.
Go Coastal with a Beach Potluck Fresh air, cool water and the sand in your toes! Call your friends, organize a potluck menu and gather together your beach gear. Everyone should bring their favorite dish along with their bathing suits, towels, blankets, frisbees, beach balls and – of course - the sunscreen. Grill hotdogs and burgers or have a traditional clambake! Finger foods work best here – like chips and fresh fruits as well as canned sodas and beer. Build a campfire (if your beach allows them) and roast marshmallows or make s’mores for a fun dessert treat. Don’t forget a trash bag! You definitely want to leave the beach as clean as you found it! If you live in Seattle, head to Alki Beach. For those willing to travel, head to Lake Chelan in Central Washington. Our pick...Wapato Point.
1. Looking for an excuse to replace that bulky computer monitor in the home office? An LCD flat panel model uses as little as a third of the electricity of conventional tube-based models, saving you on your power bill the equivalent of leaving a 50-watt bulb on all year.
When buying large-screen TVs, the savings comes from LCDs and rear-projection models, which use less than half the energy of plasma TVs.
2. You knew grilling was a healthy way to cook vittles, but did you know it was good for the air? Outdoor grills take less energy than electric kitchen stoves. They also keep heat out of the house, lowering air conditioning costs.
Stick with grills that use propane or natural gas; they emit 5.6 pounds of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere per hour while a charcoal grill belches 11 pounds of the air-polluting compound for the same.
One more thing: dine on reusable plates made from bamboo, not disposable paper ones. The trees will thank you.
3. If you feel a little woozy after painting the bedroom with latex-based enamel, choose a product low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) instead. New designer colors and improved quality make these safer paints equivalent to standard ones and they benefit your health as well as the planet’s.
If you don't mind a paint fume buzz, try recycled paints. Filtered, reprocessed latex keeps harmful chemicals out of the landfill and at $5 to $7.50 a gallon, they’re a bargain. Colors and finishes are sometimes limited, though..
4. Skip the pesticides and use nature's method of bug-eradication: other animals. Install birdhouses to shelter feathered friends who dine on pesky beetles and grubs. Put out egg cases of Green Lacewings or Praying Mantises (less than $15, www.mastergardening.com) and they’ll gobble up aphids. Bats, and toads will dine on mosquitoes; attract them with bat houses ($25) and toad houses you can make yourself by overturning flower pots.
5. Organic food tastes better and it’s kinder to the earth. Thirty percent of the fossil fuel used on farms goes into the making of fertilizers.
Get greener by buying items grown or produced within 100 miles and you’ll reduce the amount of diesel fuel needed to ship food. You can get fresher food and help small-scale agriculture by shopping at neighborhood farmers’ markets.
Get more of these HGTV Green Ideas by clicking here.
We found this article regarding the current trends in catering and would like to share a piece of it with you. Click here to read the full article.
Hot Trends in Catering By Diane Welland M.S., R.D.
Over the last ten years, catering has gone through something of a revolution. Driven by high expectations, increasing demand and more competition the industry has undergone tremendous change. Not only have catering services grown in importance, becoming a vital source of revenue for many noncommercial operations, but the events themselves have gone through a major overhaul. Increasingly viewed as part of the evening's entertainment, today's customers seek a "dining experience" for even the smallest catered function.
In an effort to appease these clients, menus have gotten bigger, better and more sophisticated than ever before. Variety and excitement are buzzwords in the industry and creative chef-manned stations and buffets specifically tailored for each event are the norm rather than the exception. To attract and keep customers, caterers must not only follow the latest, "in" foods in restaurants; they must also create their own trends. As a result, many catering chefs are experimenting with a wide range of international cuisines and fusion dishes, along with a number of exotic or specialty ingredients. Here are some of the hottest, "happening" foods and catering trends in cities across the country. Some are based on what's "in" in restaurant cuisine, while others have evolved purely from the catering field.
As advertisers, we are always attracted to really incredible branding and pieces. We found some recent incredible and futuristic marketing pieces from a company called Blutsbruder. Blutsbruder Design is an acclaimed design studio with a roster of international clients. Specializing in art and advertising print productions with a focus on visual effects, Blutsbruder Design provides both the creative direction and the final implementation of the image. You'll often see them create incredible 3D artwork using digital retouching and photo enhancing. Check out some of our favorites from their portfolio. We love the way they think outside the box to create truly eye-catching branding pieces. Bravo!
Businesses and corporations now have a simple way to contribute to a greener planet through a unique philanthropy opportunity. 1% For The Planet, a non-profit organization, acts as a conduit for action by working with companies willing to donate just 1% of their profits to various causes created to preserving the planet. In return, this growing alliance of companies is given the opportunity not only to see their self-worth rise, but their net worth climb as well.
One Percent for the Planet has also teamed up with Jack Johnson on his 2008 World Tour and All At Once, a new social action network connecting nonprofits with people who want to become active in their local and world community. All At Once comes to life online at www.AllAtOnce.org and at every Jack Johnson concert in the Village Green, a collection of interactive booths where you can get educated, get inspired, and connect face-to-face with us and other local, national, and international non-profits.
You may have noticed recent advertisements for the Starbucks Coffee Company's latest addition, cocoa! Together, Starbucks Coffee Company and The Hershey Company have created chocolates that are crafted with high-quality, flavorful cacao from around the world and then blended with premium natural ingredients, authentic Starbucks® coffee, Tazo tea and other authentic coffeehouse flavors.
Starbucks and The Hersey Company are working to make a positive difference in the world’s cacao-growing regions. As part of this commitment and shared values, The Hershey Company has begun to pilot and implement Cocoa Practices, in addition to the company’s current responsible sourcing initiatives. Cocoa Practices is Starbucks sustainable cocoa purchasing guidelines for Starbucks branded products, including Starbucks Chocolate. The effort encourages best practices in cocoa production among farmers, processors and exporters. The two companies are evaluating, identifying and supporting producers of quality, sustainably grown cacao.
According to national restaurant association research, the restaurant industry in all 50 states is expected to grow in 2008 and beyond. This marks the 17th year in a row in which the restaurant industry will see even more growth according to the National Restaurant Association’s 2008 Restaurant Industry Forecast. With expected national sales of $558 billion, a total economic impact of more than $1.5 trillion, and 13.1 million employees in 2008, the nation’s restaurants are a driving force in national and state economies.
"Restaurants are firmly rooted as an essential part of Americans' lifestyle, and the restaurant and foodservice industry will show a respectable 4.4 percent sales growth in 2008 despite the challenging overall economic climate," said Hudson Riehle, senior vice president of Research and Information Services for the Association. "On the state level, the strongest growth will again be seen in the Western and Southern states, with Nevada leading sales growth and Arizona leading job growth."
Nationally, restaurant-industry sales are expected to increase by 4.4 percent in 2008, or 0.9 percent real (inflation-adjusted) growth.
With the number of restaurant locations in the United States growing to 945,000 in 2008, the number of restaurant jobs will also increase; the industry is expected to add two million jobs in the next 10 years.
Below are listed Northwest state-by-state 2008 restaurant-industry sales in billions, the percentage of sales growth over 2007, and the job growth by 2018:
SKU CI65708 ISBN 1-931400-63-6 Page Count 40 Year Published 2007 Publication Type soft-cover book Retail Price: $79.95 each NRA Member Price: $39.95 each
Click the image below to view the 2008 Forecast Factbook
Can You Point Out Cochabamba On A Map? Neither Can We.
If you knew that Cochabamba is the third-largest conurbation in Bolivia, kudos to you, but if you are like the rest of us and thought Cochabamba was a type of dance featured on Dancing With The Stars, you'll be super impressed with the latest winner of the 20th Annual National Geographic Bee, 11-year old Akshay Rajagopal.
Akshay's correct answer capped a two-day event in which he got every question right. A sixth-grader at Lux Middle School in Lincoln, Neb., he won a $25,000 scholarship.
We thought it might be fun to test your own geographical knowledge. Click the image below to take the National Geographic Quiz.
From Deloitte & Touche comes the latest trends for 2008 for tourism, hospitality and leisure industries. In a report formed by Deloitte & Touche based on an online travel survey, greater emphasis on globalization, the changing customer, safety, privacy and security, technology's new role, and environmental and social responsibility is being integrated into the daily practices of the industry's businesses. This comes as the result of more vocal and conscientious consumers demanding change and more eco-friendly and convenient experiences during travel.
Click below to download and read the full report from Deloitte & Touche.
