Big Night 2.0 Rocks the House of Blues

Last summer, one of our favorite non profit clients, Big Brother Big Sister of Massachusetts Bay, presented us with a challenge.  As much as they loved hosting their iconic and over-the-top Big Night at the Convention Center, after 11 years it was time to revitalize this already hugely successful event with a venue change.  While researching, it became obvious that Boston’s beloved House of Blues was the ideal party destination for the revised version of this event – Big Night 2.0.

Using the eclectic existing decor of the House of Blues as our canvas, we brought in decorative elements to create a colorful and dynamic “Rock the Casbah” feel.  As the 850 guests entered the music hall, they were met by gold living bull statues – standing so still that it was a shock to learn they were alive!  Cocktail and high communal tables were dressed in assorted fuchsia, orange, turquoise and purple linens and topped with vibrant florals.  Entertainers included a (real live!) snake charmer, authentic belly dancers and a henna artist.  Splashes of colored lighting and an awesome stage backdrop tied it all together into a Big Night that will not be soon forgotten!

Delicious hors d’oeuvres were passed by servers sporting “Hi, these are..” name tags – despite loud music, everyone knew exactly what they were eating!  On top of scrumptious passed chili cups and pulled pork sandwiches, three types of stations included something for every palate – from southern (grits and shrimp!) to Moroccan-inspired tagine and classic carving.  Macaroons and cookies bags were passed as something sweet, and the famed late night snack included pizzas and Tasty Burgers.

For a VIP experience, exclusive access was granted to the Foundation Room.  Here guests were treated to a private acoustic performance, band meet & greets, and a photo opportunity with the step & repeat.

And it wouldn’t be Big Night without big bands!  As the primary liaison for the event’s production, we worked directly with the both bands to handle all of the entertainment logistics.  Opener Raphael Saddiq had the crowd up and dancing and the night’s featured performer, the legendary Counting Crows played old favorites for the fans.

And of course, raising money for an awesome cause, Big Brother Big Sister brought in over $1.7 million.  Yup, it’s safe to say that Big Night 2.0 was a BIG success!

CE takes on ADMEI in “Blues City”

After attending a fruitful, exciting, and especially fun ADMEI Conference in Memphis, Tennessee, Jill and Laura have returned to home ready to share and promote our awesome industry in Boston!

In case you haven’t heard, ADME (Association of Destination Management Executives) has gone global – adding an “I” to the acronym!  With a mission to define, protect and promote the DMC industry, ADMEI and its leadership has been in operation since 1995 with 2012 being a milestone year – adding DMCs from around the world to their roster of terrific companies.  This past weekend, we celebrated these accomplishments and many more in the “birthplace of rock ‘n roll!”

Stationed at the renowned Peabody Hotel (complete with an entourage of ducks and a dedicated Duck Master), we spent Thursday through Saturday attending sessions that touched on creative proposals, social media, team building, and international agendas.  We gleaned perspectives from hotels and meeting planners – including insight into what makes a proposal stand out, and why a DMC might become preferred within a hotel.  Not to mention, we explored Beale Street (which has an awesome Hard Rock Cafe), barbecue (yup, we made it to Rendezvous) and of course, connected with top DMC professionals from the US, Canada, Ireland and the world.

Continuing her involvement on the ADMEI board, Jill was inducted to serve as the VP of Administration on the Executive Board for the 2012-2013 year.  Next February, the conference moves to Montreal – we’re already practicing our French!

Decadent Dining: Deuxave

Who can say no to an awesome location, a cool ambiance and innovative cuisine?  We certainly can't!  After a recent birthday celebration at Deuxave, we are confident that we've found you your new dining spot.  Located at 371 Commonwealth Ave, in the heart of the Back Bay and serving up scrumptious menu options such as “Night Moves” Scituate Lobster with Gnocchi and A Duet of Prime Beef Tartare & Wagyu Carpaccio, Deuxave has hit the mark on fine dining in the Back Bay.  The non-food highlight was dining in wing backed chairs!

Corinthian Events Heads Across the Pond…

…for our first meeting planned and executed outside the US!