The Best Event Theme Ever....

I've been approached a lot lately about "THEMES" for events. Everyone wants something catchy, something different. Yet many people throw out the idea of Vegas, Mardi Gras, and Red Carpet etc... What these themes say to me are bad high school proms, very generic where favors can be sourced from Party City and visions of create paper and balloons dance in my head.

If you want an event that stands out then have a theme that stands out. Yes these tried and true Vegas, & Mardi Gras themes have their appeal because people know how to categorize them. They associate them with a fun wild night. It’s an easy sell but it's not one that will differentiate you. Your being measured against all the other Vegas & Mardi Gra parties these guests have been to in their lifetime.

A better way to incorporate themes into events and make your company stand out is to create an event around a theme in your business. Not really rocket science but it's best to keep things simple. You don't want to make people use their brains to connect the dots you want to connect the dots for them and tell their brains what to think.

Some good theme ideas:

1. Ballroom and Bubbles Fundraiser for a handcrafted soap store
2. Improv Movie premiere for the film Funny People
3. Glamorama Macy's annual fashion show

Each of these themes gives a nod to the actual work/service/or product provided and what the company wants to highlight. For example Glamorama - totally made up word but it gives the sense that something is glamorous and elegant therefore a person thinks and feels that your company and event will be glamorous and elegant. (see connecting the dots)

So next time you need a catchy theme for your event think about what your company does and how you want people to feel about it.

Inspiration That Lasts Forever

A friend is one of the most valuable possession a person can acquire. In this life of being an entrepreneur there are not too many who understand our plight. The drive for success, the unmitigated need to risk it all, and the confidence that no matter what we will figure it out. In my quest to start, grow and maintain this business there has been one friend that has been more than an inspiration, he's been a beacon of hope, a guiding light, and a constant source of support.

Even in the wake of his death Dan Taylor's overwhelming presence still surrounds me. As an extremely accomplished entrepreneur Dan has seen many success and a few mis-steps along the way. In his business coaching he was completely transparent. He let everyone know that success is difficult, that life is difficult, but what you do with it when it gets difficult is what matters.

He was larger than life itself and his legacy will live on in the pages of history. A successful man who used his money to do good. Who built his company to provide solutions to people's needs, not dump money in own his pockets. A man who would take time out of his day to help fix yours at a moment's notice. A man who treated his clients just like he treated his friends. With respect, love, generosity and understanding.

I am blessed to have had such a role model in my life. He has shown me so much in the ways of business, challenging authority, standing up for what is right, and treating clients with as much kindness and understanding as I would my best friend.

Thank you Dan. There are so many of us who are so much better because of you.