Special Events Corporate Rentals | 2/6

How to Host the Best Halloween Party

September 22nd, 2011

October is right around the corner, making this the perfect time to start planning for the best Halloween Party ever! Corporate Halloween Parties are especially fun because employees feel like they can really express themselves by dressing up as someone else (or something else!) and having a night of fun with it. Whether they want to admit it or not, employees love attending a Corporate Halloween Party so be sure to start planning soon as hosting a Halloween bash is a great way to gather employees together for a night of scary fun. Personal parties, as well, are always in style for Halloween.

Scary Fun Entrance
What comes to mind when one thinks about Halloween? Lots of scary fun! Halloween is different from other parties in that guests are able to really use their imagination to become someone or something else for a night.

Halloween Party Entrance. Imagine how excited your guests will be when they show up to the party’s entrance and are greeted by a Grave Prop with a Haunted Window and Black Velour Drapes as the backdrop. Fun!

Zombies, Spiders & Corpses… Oh My!
Creating the ideal atmosphere for a Halloween Party is critical. There are many themes from which to choose, such as Zombies, Spiders, and Corpses, or you can forego the theme and have a party that includes a mix of all things scary. Whatever you choose will sure to be a big hit with everyone, so be sure to start the planning right away in order to give guests time to search for the best costume.

Zombies. What’s scarier than zombies? Nothing! Imagine a display that shows a zombie emerging from a crate so it can come out and get whoever is closest.

Spiders. Picture a large spider web with a victim entangled in it for later munching! This prop will have your guests mesmerized at the very thought.

Corpses. Visualize an Electric Chair with a Truss and Throw Switch, and a Corpse sitting in the chair all hooked up – maybe he/she was late to work?

Clothes, Food, & Drinks
Now that the atmosphere is set, it’s time to place a focus on a few other important details.

What to Wear?

Depending on the theme will dictate what your guests will wear to the Halloween Party.
Idea #1 – Incorporate a theme that has everyone dress up as the same type of scary creature, which allows guests to have fun comparing themselves to each other.
Idea #2 – Choose a classic movie and have your guests dress up as some of the characters.

Food & Drinks
Eating and drinking at a Halloween Party can be lots of fun when you use your imagination! Since this is a Corporate Halloween Party, be sure to mix up the food offerings in order to accommodate all the guests.

Snacks. Finger sandwiches (in the shape of real fingers, of course) are an all-time favorite.
Drinks. Blood Red Punch with ice cube eyeballs
Dinner. Cream of Pumpkin Soup, Pumpkin Salad, and/or Spaghetti (worms & blood sauce) are 3 great choices!
Desert. Boston Scream Pie or Creepy Crawler Cupcakes

Don’t Forget!
Be sure to include the classic game of bobbing for apples! Also, don’t forget to choose a variety of Halloween-inspired music, for listening as well as to dance to. Enjoy!

Tags: halloween
Posted in Event Tips, Theme Decor | No Comments »

Planning a Fundraising Event

September 14th, 2011

Hosting a Fund Raising Event can be a great way to raise money for a variety of different reasons. With a main goal of generating donations for a specific organization, the event can also help to promote the different initiatives that the organization has undertaken. Depending on the nature of the fundraiser, it may make sense to have either a lunch or a dinner fundraiser.

The venue for your fundraising event is especially important. Making sure the venue is conveniently located in order to accommodate your guests comfortably, as well as complementing the venue with the best décor, are both essential for fundraising success.

Fund Raising Lunch
When a fundraising lunch is held, the décor is expected to be more causal when compared to a fundraising dinner. A great idea is to keep everything clean and simple, and then adding in those special, appropriate touches that pertain directly to the fundraising organization.

An Elegant Lunch. Imagine the look on your guests faces when they walk into the fundraising venue and are welcomed by the simple elegance of both tables and chairs covered in crisp, white cloths with blue ribbon accents. Adding beautiful bouquets of flowers for the table centerpieces give that extra flair of color and is a really great idea. A white spandex wall can create the rooms borders while displaying the name of the sponsoring corporation as well as the name of the organization the event is being held for.

Fund Raising Dinner
When planning for a fundraising dinner, the décor is expected to be more formal when compared to a fundraising lunch. A great idea includes making your guests feel extra-special by adding in some exceptional lighting in a color that’s fitting to the organization receiving the well-deserved attention on this exceptional night.

A Formal Dinner. Imagine your guests excitement as they enter the venue and see that the event is decorated in a traditional – yet trendy and fashionable – black-and-white setting. What’s great about utilizing the black-and-white theme is that any additional décor you deem relevant to the event can be used, giving the host a wealth of ideas along with the opportunity to truly personalize the event to the organization being honored.

Tips for the Best Fund Raiser
Since fund raising events are focused purely on raising money for a particular organization, there are some things that you can do that can help you raise the most funds possible.

Create a fundraising committee! There’s lots to do when hosting an event, so the more assistance, the better!
Set a Fundraising goal, and make sure that everyone knows what it is so they can assist in making it come true!
Don’t hold the event too close to any other major holidays so that the significance of the event doesn’t get ‘lost’ due to other, major events/holidays occurring around the same time.

Publicizing the event can lead to additional donations as well as giving your business a great reputation as one that cares about helping their community, which is a true win-win situation.

Tags: dinner, fundraiser, lunch
Posted in Event Tips | No Comments »

Hillside Furniture – Fashion, Furniture, For a Cause

September 9th, 2011

Integrating the stylish accoutrements of fashion with the sensible elegance of furniture is a uniquely different idea behind a fashion show. Inserting a runway stage inside a furniture store, and coordinating setup and rehearsals around store hours adds another twist. Yet, when done properly this format proved to be an incredible recipe for success. Hillside Furniture, Fashions by Paulina and Display Group joined forces to create and implement the inaugural F-3 event, benefiting kids with cancer.

Display Group worked with Amy Kaminsky Productions to design and deliver on this distinctive concept. By utilizing a white fabric palette as a staging backdrop, Display Group’s design allowed for a completely vibrant palette to project various lighting patterns and environments to the overall look and feel of the space. And, by providing overall program management, Display Group was able to align a disparate group of vendors into a cohesive team with a singular mission.

The F-3 event reflects the combination of Display Group’s core strengths: impressive and inspired vision and the management abilities to pull it off.

Tags: hillside furniture
Posted in Client Focus | No Comments »

Arzika Plex 2011 Event

September 7th, 2011

Display Group was hired by Arzika to assist them with branded directional signage, stage settings and after parties. To help guide attendees, Display Group produced a series of branded light towers. Standing at 8’ tall, guests could easily navigate their way through the sprawling complex. Each tower was lighted for maximum visibility. Simple cardholders and signs were placed throughout to help identify key areas.

Combining the mix of old meets new; Display Group used a combination of stretched spandex units with truss, along with large dimensional gears. Both gears and spandex structures where lit and changed colors during the presentation.

To wrap the night up, Display Group created two different areas for guests to unwind. One end of the ballroom was transformed into an 80’s era arcade. A central truss light bar with chain link panel accents was the focal point of the room. Vintage arcade games and pin ball machines lined the walls, which were up washed with vibrant colors.

In the opposite end of the ballroom, Display Group created a dueling Piano Bar. Pianos were set atop a stage, and surrounded by our Black Plexi Bar. Additional black resin tables were used to give the club a slick black feel.

Posted in Client Focus, Theme Decor | No Comments »

Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority Dedication Ceremony

September 5th, 2011

For more than 10 years, the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority has been little more than a dream for many of Detroit’s business and community leaders. On July 18, that dream became a reality with the dedication and unveiling of the Port Authority’s new facility located on East Jefferson in Downtown Detroit.

Partnering with the prestigious public relations firm, Berg Muirhead, the agency of record for the Port Authority, Display Group designed the room environment and implemented essential production components for the event. This included not only audio and lighting, but also the new banners that adorn the entrance way to the Port Authority, as well as the very design itself of the Port Authority’s new logo.

A veritable who’s who of Detroit politicians, city officials and community leaders each took to the stage to commemorate this significant occasion.

Tags: Detroit, port authority
Posted in Client Focus | No Comments »

Event Lighting – How to Make it Work

September 1st, 2011

When hosting a special event, there are many various aspects that need to be addressed. Finding the right venue and decorating the event so that it properly presents the theme of the day/night are definitely two of the most important, and even though these two items are always at the top of everyone’s I’m-planning-an-event-and-I-have-a-million-things-to-do-checklist, lighting often ends up near the very bottom. This makes it so that the art of lighting tends to either be neglected or ignored altogether.

Why is Lighting so Important?
The lighting of an event is often something that goes unnoticed (unless it is part of the event and thus intentionally made to stand out). This is most likely due to the fact that lighting is often one of the last items on the checklist and thus doesn’t always get the proper attention it deserves, but another reason is that there just isn’t enough information on lighting, and how to do it right!

This doesn’t need to be the case as there are many lighting options available that can add that extra flair to your next event, of which all will help set that particular event mood that you’re looking for.

Lighting Options
There are quite a few lighting options from which to choose, so think about the statement you want to make and then choose one of the following options that can help make that happen!

Truss Uprights with Sequenced Can Lights
This style of lighting is quite common as well as being very versatile. Used for a variety of lighting needs, can lights can be used either as a focal point or can give less subtle lighting within the background of an event.

Light Tables with Washed Wall Background
Imagine the ambiance of the room when you choose to use these beautiful Light Tables! They’ll definitely be a conversation starter and are considered a perfect addition for any event that requires a touch of sophistication.

Light Projection
Using Light Projection can be a fun and interesting way to add special and/or unique lighting possibilities to your event. The projected light can be focused on any area, such as a wall, ceiling, or even on a dramatic background such as velour drapes or a string curtain wall. Your company can even have its very own logo or trademark projected, which can be quite impressive.

Lamps
If you’re wanting to keep things a little more simple, you may want to explore the possibilities of adding some floor and/or table lamps to your event’s décor. Although lamps tend to offer more subtle and simple lighting options, they are just the thing when it comes to wanting effortless and straightforward lighting for smaller events.

A Few Questions
Ask yourself the following questions that can help guide you with your lighting decisions:

-Is the event held in the daytime or at night?

-How much do I want the lighting to be a part of the overall theme?

-What kind of mood do I want the guests to be in?

Tags: lighting
Posted in Event Tips | No Comments »

Adcraft D-Show 2010

August 29th, 2011

Display Group created the atmosphere for The Adcraft Club’s annual awards show. The D show is the must attend advertising event of the year. Showcasing the incredible creative talent in Detroit’s advertising industry; the D-show is all about Detroit cool. This year, Display Group used a color palate of white, black and silver, with red accents. We incorporated our ottomans throughout the event to give guests a comfortable resting place to eat or chat. We also washed many of the walls in red light, and projected red “D”s on the wall and floor. White spandex divider walls with additional “D” branding where incorporated to help define the space.

Posted in Client Focus | No Comments »

Compuware Maker Faire

August 23rd, 2011

The Maker Faire is universally viewed as the most happening event in Detroit for any would be inventor or entrepreneur. The two-day faire integrates arts, crafts, food, and music with science, engineering and technology. Display Group used this backdrop to design an interactive display on behalf of Maker Faire’s title sponsor, Compuware Corporation. Display Group’s unique design embraced the technological innovation of the Faire to reflect Compuware’s position in the marketplace. A custom-branded aluminum structure provided an iconic focal point for the display, while soft seating and an aluminum bar offered easy access and a flowing transition into the booth. The end result was a display that welcomed attendees and provided utilitarian appointments to the Compuware staff.

Tags: compuware, maker faire
Posted in Client Focus, Corporate Events | No Comments »

Theatre and Movie Props – A Western Theme

August 4th, 2011

Western Themes are considered to be one of the more popular themes utilized when it comes to Movie Props. The Western genre is one that has not only been around for many decades now, it is a much-admired theme that brings with it that old-style, nostalgic, Americana feel that was so very popular at this special time in history. A Western theme also represents a time when there was no grey areas, as you were either considered to be a law-abiding citizen or an outlaw, which adds an extra element to the Western movie prop theme.

Figuring out which movie props to use that will fit your particular needs is not difficult to do as there is a large variety of Western related props that will surely fit your specific movie prop needs.

Cutouts, Backdrops/Flats, Façades, and Props
Creating a Western theme is not only fun, but easy to do when you have the right props!

Cutouts. Who could resist a few life-sized cutouts of some of the more popular people that have a Western theme attached to them? Choose from the large variety of people that have been associated with a Western theme, such as:

John Wayne (on or off a horse)
Matt Dillon, Marshall on Gunsmoke and Amanda Blake, Miss Kitty
Alan Ladd (Shane)
Steve McQueen
James Garner (Maverick)

*There is also a selection of animals from which to choose from such as cows, horses, and pigs.

Backdrops/Flats. Choose from a few different backdrops and/or flats, which will help set the scene.

Western Desert or Mountain
Wagon at Sunset
Horse Stable
Saloon Scene
Prairie Day and/or Night

*What particular mood are you trying to convey?

Façades. Take your Western theme to another whole level by adding one of these fantastic façades! These life-sized façades are great replicas of the old-style buildings that people expect to see when they think of a main street in any old-time Western town.

Saloon
Barn
Livery
Bank
Jail
Hotel
Church
Hardware and Dry Goods

*A complete Western-themed town is possible!

Support Props. When you add support props, you are adding all those extra fine details that can really add to the Western theme’s overall appearance.

Hay Bales, Tumbleweeds
Branding Iron, Lasso Ropes, Leather Chaps
Rustic Wagon
Barrels, Wagon Wheels, Weathered Crates
Rocks, Large Cactus, Cactus Clusters
Cigar Store Indian Statue
(Triangle) Dinner Bell

*These support props will create the final touches for the perfect Western theme.

Special Movie Props
These two special props are meant to add that something special to your Western theme, and can be used as an addition to you overall theme or used as a standalone piece.

Stage Coach. Imagine the statement that a Stage Coach can make! The presence of this stage coach automatically represents all things Western, and is thus the perfect addition to any event that requires a Western theme.

Barrel Table w/Cow Hyde and Wood Slat Fence. A beautiful way to display some of the more special Western themed items. Or choose to use this beautifully crafted table to serve some of the more popular Western foods at your event, such as hamburgers, hot dogs, steaks, baked beans, potato salad, biscuits, and corn on the cob.

Tags: movie, theatre, western theme
Posted in Movie Industry, Props | No Comments »

Pipe and Drape – Simple Décor That Makes A Bold Statement

August 1st, 2011

When it comes time to host an event, the list of things to do can easily come across as being a bit overwhelming. Some of the more critical aspects include finding the right venue, appropriate entertainment, ordering food and drinks, and decorating the event so that it matches the event theme.

Since there are so many, various aspects to hosting an event, some of the minor details are often overlooked. Because it’s the little things that normally have the ability to make or break an event, it’s important to pay just as much attention to these little details so that your particular event is truly the best it can possibly be!

Pipe and Drape
Pipe and Drape can be used to highlight a special area, or even used as a border to surround the entire event. Draping is one of the most popular decorating techniques utilized because it is simple yet offers quite the bold statement.

What Exactly is a Pipe and Drape System? A pipe and drape system refers to the method used for hanging the drapes in the most fashionable way that is considered suitable for that particular event. Special piping is put together to form the foundation and support of the drapes.

Draping Choices
There are many various colors and fabrics from which to choose from, so feel free to explore all the possibilities available. Stay with one color theme, or mix and match, it’s up to you!

Colors. Choose from some of the most beautiful, popular colors – blue, magenta, green, silver, purple, seafoam, pink, red, burgundy, silver, gold, white, black. Patterns are also available, such as zebra, leopard, camouflage, and more.

Fabrics. Choose from velour, crushed velvet, banjo, polyester, poly silk, nylon, lame, and boucle.

Draping Ideas
There are quite a few ways to use draping that can bring your event to another whole level! Depending on what the event theme will be, will help decide which drapes are most suitable and what type of draping styles will best highlight your particular event.

Corporate Luncheon. Imagine beautifully decorated tables covered with crisp, white tablecloths and bright, seafoam napkins. The room is surrounded with elegant black velour drapes with seafoam pole covers adding that extra special touch of style and sophistication.

Entrance. The entrance to any event sets the mood! Imagine how impressed your guests will be when they arrive at your event and feel welcomed as they look around and see the striking black velour drapes tied back to reveal the white poly silk drape interior. Simply stunning!

Don’t Forget!
Add tiebacks and/or pole covers for some extra flair and elegance.

Tags: drapery, pipe and drape
Posted in Event Tips | 1 Comment »

Michigan Corporate & Special Events News