Trade Show at the Canadian Special Events EXPO13
March 27, 2013 by deblewis
Filed under Ontario, Past Events, Toronto
Thursday, March 21st, The Canadian Special
Event Expo 2013, hosted a Trade show at the Metro Toronto
Convention Centre.
As a social media sponsor of the UnExpected13 opening night party the night before,
we were welcome to attend this one of a kind event.
What is a Trade show all about you would ask?
Well actually, it is about representing the entire event industry in one place, to provide professionals and attendees access to an eclectic network. This included entertainment previews, and opportunities to meet a number of event suppliers.
There were a number of stalls with innovative products and services, new technologies, such as a fog wall that you can use to screen videos, or entertainment with lookalikes such as Michael Jackson and Marilyn Monroe.
Also the fun part was in my opinion the numerous photo booths at the show. Everything that you ever imagine to take pictures was available. From 3D printed photos, to a fully automated
booth and for some photo interaction sometimes even props were available to jazz up the photos.
What about the food some of you might add?
Glutton would not have been disappointed! There were food stations to please everyone. Whereas it was sweet with Cupcakes Companies who are able to put your company’s logo on the frosting, or corporate maple sugar gifts.
Everything was set up for business interactions or even just for guests to look for new and creative ideas for future events. “See what’s new and hot now” in an industry that keeps on growing.
Inspiration was floating around us the entire day.
Check out some picture here: CSE Expo 13 Trade Show
Event Venues in the Design District of King East
April 9, 2012 by CityEvents
Filed under Toronto, Uncategorized
The King East neighborhood is known for its great design but it also is a good place to host an event as it has several beautiful venues that are sure to impress your guests. CityEvents is working on an exciting new project to revitalize and promote the King East Design District which includes a tour in the fall of 2012.
Saturday, September 29, 2012, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Sunday, September 30, 2012, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Among those venues there are some you would not traditionally consider like décor and design stores. Design stores are a great place to host an event as the generally have lots of room and great décor. Experience something new and consider one of these venues for your next event.
Andrew Richard Designs offers two chic and contemporary event spaces great for a variety of functions. Andrew Richard Designs are experienced at hosting events their resume is as long as it is impressive and includes events for Smirnoff, Gap Canada Inc., and CAMH.
Urban Amish’s Loft Raum combines great style in a sleek setting. Their authentic conversion loft is a warm and open space great for small and large events like: gallery showings, product launches, corporate and media events as well as parties and weddings.
UpCountry can be a refreshing change of scene if you plan events frequently. The style they display in their store is apparent in their venue space. Friendly and helpful the staff at UpCountry are truly knowledgeable and accommodating.
The Biltmore Domicile is a large open space with high ceilings, arching windows and exposed beams and brickwork. The space is great for large parties like weddings and corporate events. This event is in the surrounding Distillery District.
King East known for its design stores provides plenty of choices when looking for a memorable venues, so explore your options with the design stores of king west.
Planning a Party for St. Patrick
March 7, 2012 by deblewis
Filed under Event Venues, Ontario, Past Events, Toronto, Uncategorized
In a city with so many cultures, it is only natural that Toronto would celebrate a day of full spirited Irish traditions. March 17th is fast approaching, and with our Irish luck this St. Patrick’s Day has landed on a Saturday! Many will want to take advantage of the weekend and throw parties in the spirit of the leprechaun. Here are some simple tips that will make your party the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Décor
St. Patrick’s Day is all about green. Most importantly you must wear green attire and encourage your guests to do the same. Then one trip to the dollar store will save you money and maybe even save you a headache. First pick up green shamrock decorations, along with stickers, balloons and construction paper. Then make sure you grab green plates, cups, and cutlery for your St. Patty’s snacks. Even with a small budget, you find all of your décor needs for under $20.
Food and Beverage
The theme of this party is simple. Green all the way through, even in the food! Food colouring will be your best friend and your worst enemy. Just add a few drops into beer, soda and even some food to get the feel good green effect. Make sure to use the dye in plastic cups to avoid staining your own glassware. Stick with classic finger foods and a variety of Irish beers. Everyone can enjoy some classic food with a delicious new taste of beer.
Here are some ideas for Irish Brews that can be found at varying LCBO’s…
- Guinness Irish Stout
- Harp Irish Lager
- Smithwicks Irish Amber Ale
- Kilkenny Irish Cream Ale
For the ladies, try Animee Rosé Beer, an internationally known brew that has become very popular in Ireland and is available through Molson Coors. The sweet and light taste will be splendidly refreshing this March month.
Music
Finding the right music for an event can be very tricky when trying to satisfy a variety of people. Here are some east coast Canadian artists that you can integrate into your own personal play list to get the perfect Celtic sounds.
- Great Big Sea
- The Barra MacNeils
- Loreena McKennitt
- Natalie McMaster
- The Rankin Family
- Ashley Mac Isaac
Games
- Pot of Gold – Balloon Pop
Take a bunch of cold balloons and fill some with a chocolate coin, some with real coins, some with plastic shamrocks and keep a handful empty. Each guest has the chance to pop a balloon to find their lucky prize inside. The excitement comes from the mystery of what is in the balloon.
- Lucky Coin Grab
Fill a pot with chocolate coins and three Canadian loonies. Each guest will have a chance to grab. Either they will get a chocolate coin, or they will get a real dollar. The three who pick the dollar will win St. Patrick’s Day merchandise. They will get to choose between a hat, t-shirt, or shamrock beads. Your prizes can vary depending on what you have available.
So whether your tradition is as simple as sporting some green gear for the day or drinking a pint of green beer, the tradition of the Irish is easy to carry on when you follow these simple party tips.
Best of luck!
-Samantha Crimi
CityEvents Intern
The Trump
February 29, 2012 by CityEvents
Filed under Ask Deb, Event Venues, Toronto, Uncategorized
The newly opened Trump International Hotel and Tower in Toronto, located in the financial district, is an example in luxury and beauty. The tower which has 261 rooms was designed to show off Toronto’s impressive skyline. The launch in March showcased some of the chef’s specialties and full chocolate bar.
Trump is known for being glamorous and larger than life that is present in the new hotel and towers where guests can enjoy of a 12 000 sq ft event space.
There a several options available from meeting spaces to ballrooms the Trump tower is designed to cater to a wide variety of needs. The available event space includes The Grand Salon, The Grand Ballroom, The Trump Boardroom, and Ballrooms 1-3 which can be used individually or combined, the same goes for Salons 1-3.
At the launch event the extra ballroom design was courtesy of MB Designs Inc; with flowers, candlesticks, lamps, geometric walls to add an extra touch to any event.
If you are always on the look out for great event space then why not consider the city’s newest edition into the luxury hotel market to furnish you with a space for your unforgettable experience in the making. There are many things associated with Trump Hotels including drama, beauty, opulence and glamour all of which would make your event more memorable.
The Trump International Hotel and Tower is located in the heart of the financial district at 325 Bay Street. For more information on event spaces visit their website at trumptorontohotel.com or call (416) 306-5800.
8 Tips on Planning and Hosting Winter Events
February 1, 2012 by deblewis
Filed under Ask Deb, Event Venues, Ontario
The days are shorter, the night are longer but don’t let old man winter stop you from hosting your most fabulous event yet! Follow these CityEvents tips to create a Winter Wonderland on any budget
1. Pick a Theme and Stick to it!
For a winter event let the season inspire you and all your décor, theme, activities, and food options. A fun festive tip to try is pick one winter item, anything from a crystal icicle, a snowy forest, or a roaring fire and from that item recreate the feel, smell, taste, touch and sound that object brings you in all your event’s details.
2. Stay Warm!
The temperature may be dropping but your parties are heating up! Make sure your guests stay warm, and bundle up coming and leaving your event. It can be anything from having a heated area when lining up to enter the venue to as simple as offering extra mittens and scarves to your guests when they leave (bonus points for having your event logo on the accessories!). For smaller parties have your guests brave the cold with a cup of Goodnight Hot Chocolate!
3. Make Outside Inside
Why let the seven feet of snow outside your door limit your options. Make outside inside with different heating setups. Try installing a tent area to take advantage of a larger lawn. Small budgets are no problem, as decorating a yard with fairy lights and having folded blankets on chairs creates a winter wonderland while giving your guests a chance for a breath of frosty fresh air.
4. Safety First
Safety should be a concern for all savvy planners year round but winter presents its own unique challenges. As much as possible check the weather reports for the day of your event and shovel, salt, and snow-blow all walkways! Always do a run-through of your whole floor-plan to make sure there are no slipping and sliding risks. Have enough coat racks (or coat check) as well as mats for wet boots and shoes. As always, for any guests who were feeling the festive winter spirit and consumed have alcohol, insist on a taxi or have alternative transportation on standby. Two numbers for the Toronto area are: Beck 416-751-5555, and City Taxi 416-740-2222
5. Use the Season to Your Advantage
Winter is the best time to match your décor to the season. Ice sculptures, and ice luges (for beverages) are beautiful, reasonably priced, and an impressive visual for your guests. The lower light of the afternoon sets any candles and lighting aglow. Rich colours: crimson, snow white, pine greens pop against the drab background of the urban winter. The crisp air makes savoury smells more noticeable, and any warmth always draws people in off the street. Counterpoint the heat and energy of your party with the frosty outside and all your event choices will be that much more of a standout.
6. Try Something Different
As beautiful as the winter season is there is something to be said with doing the exact opposite! Vacation sales spike in the New Year for a reason – people want an escape! This is the perfect time to juxtapose a wacky or different theme to shake your guests out of their winter hibernation. Who wouldn’t want to try a January Hawaiian Luau or a Murder Mystery Dinner instead of a traditional February Valentine’s day party? Get creative and try something no one else is doing! It’s sure to be noticed.
7. Timing is Everything
They’re called the “Winter Blahs” for a reason. Holiday season is very busy with Christmas, Chanukah, New Years and reunions. Guests may be worn out by January 1st, but there is a large empty period from Jan – March. This is the perfect time to plan your winter party and give your guests something to look forward to! Half the trick in creating a good buzz is standing out from the competition, and with little else going on even the smallest party will shine.
8. Make it Fun!
This is the most important thing to remember! As planners we can get caught up in the detail and forget to see the big picture. People come to events to have fun, so think critically. Is this something I would have fun at? Spontaneity is the key to fun; why not whip up a snowball fight at midnight? Drop snowflake confetti? Keep your guests guessing and keep it fun! Happy Planning!!
