Having a Ball of a Time

A few weeks ago, we discussed how tenting a corporate event can provide companies a wide variety of options as they plan their next major industry event. This month, we are focusing on how tenting your next gala or non-profit event can help create a memorable experience that will impress all attendees.

During the planning process, we work with our clients to ensure that every decision best compliments their location and highlights their theme. For example, one of our clients wanted to create a “New York City” experience for its annual gala. With the help of red carpet, a black and white dance floor, and ambient lighting, the open grassy property turned into Times Square within a matter of days.

With the flexibility of tenting on your side, you can plan on having your event at a location that has particular relevance or meaning to your organization. For a hospital celebrating the ground breaking of its state of the art facility, guests can dine on the exact location of the future building. For a parks department heralding the good work of its donors and volunteers, people can wonder through the greenery and dance under the stars, appreciating the beautiful surroundings throughout.

We have been honored and privileged to work with countless organizations and non-profits over the years. Each time we are amazed with the events they produce and are happy to share in their success and good works. We look forward to them each year and hope to be a part of many more in the future.

As you start thinking about your next event, be sure to visit our website at www.stamfordtent.com or e-mail us at sales@stamfordtent.com. 

By Meredith Vachon

Think Outside the Ballroom

Given the prevalence Wi-Fi, hotspots, and mobile technology, more and more events are freeing themselves from traditional brick-and-mortar locations and venturing elsewhere. This flexibility is offering corporations and businesses the ability to look beyond conference centers and hotel ballrooms when planning a corporate function or an industry convention. Think about it – if someone wanted to set up a remote office on a beach, given the right tools, he absolutely could!

Certain types of company events already fit into the “outdoor” category – summer picnics, family outings, golf tournaments. However, companies typically retreat inside when preparing larger scale or more formal events. As we are becoming a cable-free culture, the outdoor/indoor barrier is beginning to erode away. Now instead of worrying if your facility is too small to hold all your employees in one room, a tent can be erected on the property and everyone can assemble there. By putting up partitions or dividers, planners and organizers can easily create different stations or break-out areas depending on the event’s purpose. If an item is forgotten or a piece of equipment suddenly breaks, having a tent near the main office can save time and stress!

For more elaborate functions, renting a tent can allow companies to consider numerous locations. Interested in having a step and repeat on 42^nd Street? No problem!  At Stamford Tent, we have helped clients with product launches and industry parties on piers along the Hudson River, New York City rooftops, busy city streets, and countless other places. Given your event’s theme, a clear top tent can offer guests a different experience than inside a crowded, dark indoor space. As a company, you will definitely impress attendees when they are able to overlook Manhattan’s skyline at sunset.

If you are a profession corporate planner or someone tasked to oversee the company’s upcoming global meeting, consider all the options available and select one that matches your needs and requirements. And don’t be afraid to venture outside!

For more information about Stamford Tent & Event Services wide selection of tents and accessories, visit our website at www.stamfordtent.com or contact us at sales@stamfordtent.com. 

By Meredith Vachon

March 17th Around The World

With only a few days left in this abbreviated month, March will be here before we know it. It is a month full of calendar highlights – the beginning of daylight saving time, the first day of spring, and of course, St. Patrick’s Day. Though this holiday is strongly associated with the Irish culture, cities and countries around the world partake in jovial celebrations and share in the cheerful spirit of the day.

The parades in Dublin and New York are two of the most famous, and draw thousands of spectators decked out in knit sweaters, tartan hats, and a few “Kiss Me I’m Irish” pins. However, each celebrating city puts a spin on the festivities to make it unique and its own. In Chicago, its namesake river is turned green using vegetable dyes. Hope that visitors and tourists don’t think the river is always that color!

Not too far from Dublin, Copenhagen’s celebration has a more athletic tone to it. Hundreds of participants engage in what can only be described as a three-legged pub crawl. Along the route, tethered competitors stop at local Irish pubs, drink at least a half a pint of beer, and continue on their trek. Proceeds of the event are split among three charities – one Danish, one Irish, and one international.

Halfway around the world in Tokyo, Japan, marchers parade down one of its most fashionable avenues that has been flanked on either side for the occasion with Irish and Japanese flags. The Irish Ambassador to Japan leads the kilt-wearing, bag-pipe playing participants, who splurge on $7 pints of Guinness! 

For this upcoming St. Patrick’s Day, iconic landmarks around the world are going to “go green”. India's Taj Mahal, Disneyland Paris, the London Eye, the welcome sign in Las Vegas, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Empire State Building will all be aglow in emerald green to mark the holiday.

Though you may have to wait until next year for Dublin, see if your local town or city is planning any activities or events. And who says you can’t bring a piece of the Emerald Isle to your backyard and celebrate with friend and neighbors. La Fhéile Pádraig Sona Daoibh!

For more information about Stamford Tent & Event Services and our St. Patrick Day “Irish mist rain plans”, visit our website at www.stamfordtent.com or e-mail us at sales@stamfordtent.com.

By Meredith Vachon

How to Throw an Engaging Party

The weeks between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day has been deemed the peak of engagement season. The wedding planning website, The Knot, claims that almost 40% of engagements occur during this time. With Christmas, New Year’s, and Valentine’s Day, love and the promise of “happily ever after” is in the air. As a result, the season of engagement parties will shortly begin. While this event is not a “must” on the wedding timetable, it is a fun way to kickoff the festivities and celebrate with close friends and family.

There are countless possibilities when planning an engagement party. My favorite idea is to schedule a low-key affair and invite guests to either the couples’ home or (traditionally) the parents’ home. Hosting an intimate, relaxing gathering is a perfect way to begin what can potentially be a stressful process.

Especially for guests who are meeting for this first time, it can be easier to meet in this type of informal setting. As more and more people scatter around the county (and the world!), the couple's closest friends are not always just a car ride away. For those individuals in the bridal party, an engagement party is a wonderful opportunity to meet everyone face-to-face. Since e-mails and text messages will most likely be the dominate forms of communication during planning, having that initial, personal interaction can help everyone start on the same page.

We wanted to extend our congratulations to all the newly engaged couples. As you begin organizing and planning your wedding, be sure to solicit advice, plan thoughtfully, and decide what elements are most important to you and your future spouse. Good luck!

For more information about Stamford Tent & Event Services, visit our website at www.stamfordtent.com or e-mail us at sales@stamfordtent.com. 

By Meredith Vachon

Goodbye 2013. Hello 2014!

While reflecting on the past year, we are amazed at how quickly it flew by! It only feels like yesterday that we were getting ready for 2013. Our staff wanted to share some of their favorite moments and their goals and wishes for 2014.

My New Year's resolution is the same every year: to embarrass my kids every chance I get, and try to give them everything they want. - Doug Purslow, Senior Rental Consultant

My resolutions are the usual- to make it to the gym every now and then and to stop spending all my money on shoes (I will never keep either one!) - Jacinta Mullins, Executive Administrative Assistant

My resolution is to start working out in the morning so that I can spend as much time at Stamford Tent as humanly possible! Best work moment – Valentine's Day, when I received my 27” iMac. - Rick Bisesto, Vice President, Sales & Marketing

My New Year's resolution will be to continue to eat healthier and try to quit smoking. - Traci Cavaliero, Permit Expediter

My fondest memories from this year are two events from this past summer in East Hampton with a planner we've worked with many times. - Steve Lenci, Rental Consultant

My New Year’s resolution is to call my father more often. My favorite memories are of entire weekends off and playing golf. Work wise, I enjoyed working on an event with one of my long time friends in the Hamptons creating a “barn” for Keith Urban to perform in. – Jane Frost, Senior Rental Consultant 

My resolution is to work smarter, not harder, and my best memories would be having the privilege of working with and knowing the super worker we all called Danny. Rest in peace. - Tim Frost, Vice President

Concocting Seasonal Spirits

As the season of cocktail parties, intimate get-togethers, and quick drinks with friends kicks into high gear, have your toasts ready as you prepare for the upcoming holiday season. While champagne and sparkling punches are go-to favorites, here are some cocktail suggestions that play on the season and will impress your guests.

During this time of year, certain aromas immediately stir a memory or bring you back to a certain moment in time. Chestnuts roasting on a street corner instantly brings me to chilling winter evenings, willing myself to stay warm. As you plan your party, seek inspiration from these scents and flavors. Offer guests a Gingerbread Martini that will be a treat to their taste buds. Instead of the traditional salt around the rim, dip the glass in crush gingersnaps for both a textural kick and a whimsical element. For the peppermint lovers, have them indulge in a Peppermint Frost. This grown up version of a candy cane will take the chill off your guests as they settle in for an evening of celebrating.

If you want more playful compliments, consider serving a Mistletoe Martini, which blends together chilled cranberry tea, orange and lemon juices, and vodka. Or make sure that you only have one Grinch at the party when you serve this Midori based cocktail. Your guests’ hearts will grow in size once you add a maraschino cherry garnish.

Make sure to have at least one refreshing, non-alcoholic drink available on hand for guests. Martha Stewart recommends “Cherry Bombs”. This combination of grenadine, seltzer, and maraschino cherries captures the bright and vibrant colors of the holidays while providing a sweet note to your festivities.

Though the next few weeks can be hectic and busy, we hope that you are able to savor time spent with friends and family. Best of luck with your social calendar and cheers!


By Meredith Vachon

From The Runway to The Aisle

For one week each September, the eyes of the fashion world are fixed on New York City as designers reveal their collections during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Though many in attendance are there to analyze the clothing, the looks shown will permeate countless industries during the upcoming season, and play a role in how planners and clients design their events and special occasions.

Color. Color. Color! Each year, spring signals rejuvenation and vibrancy, and this was abundantly on display during Fashion Week. Ranging from light touches to extremely bright ensembles, orange was definitely a hot choice. This eye-catching color can add a bit of excitement to the atmosphere of any event, especially against the other main color from Fashion Week – white. From linen choice to flower selection, orange adds a fun element to any décor, and the fashion industry is betting that it will be the color for spring.

Over the past few years, the old belief of the "white wedding dress" has been put to the test. Brides-to-be can now choose from a wide range of colors and shades that suit their desired look and express their personality. Drawing on different cultures and traditions, future brides can select everything from a pale blush to a show-stopping red. People are even wearing black wedding dresses! Designers are listening to their customers and have responded in full force. During Vera Wang’s recent runway show, dramatic pink dresses brightened up the runway. We suspect that this trend will be seen in all aspects of wedding planning as brides balance their playful side with tradition.

As we settle into the fall and winter, we hope that these trends and inspirations will keep you warm as you dream up your next memorable event. Enjoy and we at Stamford Tent look forward to helping you create it.

by Meredith Vachon

Meet Mike McKeon!

I'm fine where I am right now.

Mike is one of our most dedicated Rental Consultants for over 9 years now.  Not only is he dedicated to his job, but he’s also very dedicated to his clients and becomes personally involved with each event…almost to a fault.  Almost, but not quite. Dedication to either job or client is almost impossible to describe as anything but positive.

Born in Pennsylvania, he has lived his adult life in Stamford.  A volunteer fireman, husband, dog owner and Yankee season ticket holder, Mike rarely has a great deal of down time, but he prefers it that way.  He and his wife have traveled to many interesting locations such as Rome, Florence, Paris, Barcelona, Istanbul, the Congo and more.  Ok, maybe not the Congo, but I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s the next excursion after his planned visit to Germany.

After attending Pace University, Mike had worked for MetLife and CBS Cable, before a good friend of his had kicked the door open for him at Stamford Tent.  He immediately began to absorb the industry and now is one of our more technically skilled Rental Consultants.

Here is Mike's Q&A:

What is your favorite part of your job?
"Meeting new people and going places I wouldn’t otherwise be privy to . Such as one of my favorite actors, Mr. DeNiro."

Who are your favorite sports teams?
"NY Yankees & Oakland Raiders"

Describe your funniest work moment. 
"One our former employees being locked in the bathroom when it was time to go home, and he couldn’t get out.  One of THE funniest moments in or out of the office."

What is your favorite outdoor activity? 
"Softball and mountain biking (at least back when I had time)"

If you could choose to stay a certain age forever, what age would it be and why? 
"Can’t think of any one age. I’m fine where I am right now."

If you could have any superpower, what would it be? 
"I’m thinking all of Superman’s, but with Batman gadgets."

What was your favorite childhood cartoon? 
"Tom and Jerry or Woody Woodpecker"

Any nicknames? 
"None that I can say out loud in the office."

New Season, New Palette!

Of all the seasons, fall is the most colorful. Crisp green and red apples, deep orange pumpkins, bright yellow ears of corn all compliment the backdrop of the vibrant fall foliage. The gorgeous color palette and the festive mood of the season all are ingrained in our memories and from these, colorful images arise in the mind’s eye. Pantone, a world-renowned authority on color, provides wide ranging guidance to designers in all fields on trending colors. For each season, they publish a report outlining the colors that will be everywhere: from fashion to home décor, from graphic design to floral arrangement. If you want keep on top of color trends, follow their lead!

For Fall 2013, Pantone highlighted a range of colors that transition people from warm summer colors, into more traditional muted fall tones, while offering a few pops and surprises to keep people on their toes. Designated the “Color of the Year”, Emerald Green holds a top position for the fall since it offers “sparkle and sophistication”. In addition, Mykonos Blue, Acai Purple, Linden Green, Samba Red, Koi Orange, Vivacious Fuchsia, Deep Lichen Green Turbulence Gray, and Carafe Brown offer people a wide variety of options and combinations to play with while remaining on trend. For example, you can either mix Acai Purple with Emerald Green to create a majestic, regal look, or use that same rich purple with a Samba Red to produce a dramatic, fiery effect.

As you begin to plan your upcoming fall bashes, take note of Pantone’s recommendations. Their website offers wonderful tips and resources for all types of designs. Hopefully their selections of swatches will inspire you as you create your next chic and elegant event!

by Meredith Vachon

Meet Sam Fairweather!

Life keeps getting better

Sam has been with Stamford Tent for 8 years and is our Special Projects Manager.  When there is a complicated project, Sam is our guy.  He is very adept at developing CAD drawings for these projects, as well as part of the team who helps determine how to attack these projects in the safest, most cost effective way while meeting the needs and desires of our clients.  Technology savvy with an architectural mind, Sam is another important member of our team.

Born in North Carolina, Sam then moved to Massachusetts where he grew up in Plymouth.  He had then lived in Connecticut until recently moving to Cape Cod and was just recently married! Congratulations to the newlyweds!

Here is Sam’s Q&A:

What is the best part of your job?   
"I know other people have brought this up too…but it really is the “every day brings something new” aspect.  I never have any idea where my day will take me, and that means I rarely have just another workaday afternoon."

Most random thing on your iPod right now:
"Live recordings of Beethoven’s complete 9th Symphonies by Berlin’s Philharmonic from the 1940’s?  Young Money?  Guns N Roses?  Icona Pop?  Michael Jackson?  Nicola Benedetti?  Pearl Jam?  Jack White?  Sam Cooke?  Pavarotti?  Gorillaz?  Yo-Yo Ma?  It’s ALL random."

What is your favorite outdoor activity? 
"Walking on the beach with my dog.  He splashes around in the ocean like an idiot…he’s pure joy in motion when he hits the water!"

If you could choose to stay a certain age forever, what age would it be and why?
"I may not have found it yet…I thought 17 was great when I was 17.  Then I thought 22 was so much better than that when I was 22.  30 was awesome when I was 30.  Life keeps getting better…I can’t wait for what’s next!"

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
"To be in two places at once.  You could have all the experiences you wanted, but still take care of the things that always seem to prevent us from striking out on an adventure!"

What was your favorite childhood cartoon?
"Mickey’s Christmas Carol.  Actually, the Dickens part of it was just ok…but before the Disney version of that classic tale started, they had a bunch of stories about how the Disney characters (like Donald Duck and Goofy) spent their respective Christmases…I LOVED them.  I would watch the individual stories every year and then turn off the main movie."

What would you name the autobiography of your life?
“An Ordinary Guy and His Many Partially Successful, Half-hearted Attempts to Become a Renaissance Man”

There is Still (Summer)Time to Celebrate

With Labor Day and the unofficial end of summer just around the corner, it’s not too late to invite friends and family over for one last soirée of the season and bid it a proper adieu. In order celebrate this holiday, break out from the typical BBQ and watermelon routine, and treat your guests to a day that will send them into autumn relaxed and rejuvenated.

When you begin planning your party, think about how you want guests to mingle around and the general flow of the day. If you want it to remain casual and open, set up a few buffet and drink stations around your patio and backyard area. Scattering a few small tables around allows guests areas to sit and catch up, and hopefully prevents traffic jams around the food areas! Make sure your food choices are both tasty and easy to handle. Mini tomato and mozzarella sandwiches, fish tacos with a delicate jicama slaw, or grilled shrimp kebabs served with a refreshing Basil Infused Blood Orange Cocktail will leave your guests raving and content.

If you would prefer a sit down meal, preserve the general vibe of the holiday by setting your table with brightly colored linens: blue and yellow; green and white; pink and orange. Choose your personal favorite! Hanging paper lanterns or a few strings of mini-globe lights help create an intimate, yet playful environment. When considering your menu, serve summer favorites with a little twist: marinated flank steak with a chimichurri sauce; a quinoa, white bean, and fresh pepper side salad; corn on the cob with herb butter. And you can’t forget about dessert! Indulge with individual cherry pies topped with homemade whipped cream. There are few better ways to end a delightful evening than with a tasty dessert.

No matter what style of party you end up having, guests will be both impressed with your attention to detail and your keen culinary taste. At Stamford Tent, we hope you had a great summer filled with wonderful memories, and we look forward to working with you in the fall and beyond!

Thank you to Watson's Catering, Elizabeth Allen, LMD Lewis Miller Design, and IRIS Photography for creating these wonderful celebrations!

by Meredith Darts

Meet Steve Lenci!

Enjoying the Simple Things

Steve Lenci is one of our talented Rental Consultants who works from our Long Island office.  He had worked for PJ McBride, Inc (Tent & Event Rental) for almost 18 years prior to the company being acquired by Stamford Tent in early 2011.  We were very fortunate to inherit somebody like Steve.  Not only for his vast tenting experience and incredible work ethic, but he one of the most pleasant people you will ever meet, in any walk of life.

Originally from Canarsie, Brooklyn...his family moved to Farmingdale on Long Island, NY when he was 6 years old.  He's been a Long Islander ever since.  You can often find Steve on Route 27, almost constantly going back and forth to The Hamptons.  Lastly, if you are ever looking for the best pizza place on Long Island, New York and the surrounding area...ask The Lencinator.  He's got you covered.  The man loves his pizza!  For a guy in pretty darn good shape, I would put him up against competitive eaters any day of the week.

Learn more about Steve from his Q&A:

What is the best part of your job?   
"The best part of my job is it’s variability. I get to go to an amazing job site one day. The next day I may be in the office with everyone. The day after that, I’m likely to be meeting up with the guys on the job and get to see a plan come to life. I also LOVE to talk…so if you see me in any of these places, chances are -- I’m also on the phone."

Who are your favorite sports teams?? 
"The New York Yankees, New York Rangers, and the New York Giants"

Describe your funniest work moment.
"What kind of question is this? In the Long Island office I work with Scott and Doug---there is no ONE funniest moment- every day has at least one funniest moment."

What is your favorite outdoor activity?
"Tailgating with my softball teams until I’m in trouble for coming home so late."

If you could choose to stay a certain age forever, what age would it be and why?
"35. Old enough to settle down from my twenties and young enough to still be able to climb the proverbial hill at a clip."

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
"Laser Vision…so I could measure job sites from the comfort of my car."

What was your favorite childhood cartoon?
"Spiderman."

If you could have dinner with anybody at all, living or dead…who would it be?
"There are a lot of important, well known people I could name but for me, it would be my grandparents. It was great to be with my family, enjoying the simple things like good conversations and the stories of their lives…and dinner would last all day".

DJs and Jugglers and Food Trucks! Oh My!

Prior to any major event or party, there are several important decisions that organizers and hosts have to make. One of the most significant (and possibly most amusing) is, “What should the entertainment be?” The old standbys of a DJ or a live band are still alive and well. However, people are thinking outside the box, and seeking ways to offer their guests an unforgettable experience.

One party addition that has been increasing in popularity is to have a photo booth for guests to wander in and out of throughout an event. This feature allows participants to channel their inner comedian, and be as silly as they want. Often hosts can select the props guests can choose from or customize the available backgrounds to include their names and the event date. Companies usually provide the hosts a copy of all the photos taken in the booth, and guests instantly receive a memorable party favor!

Another fun alternative could be a fortune teller and/or palm reader. Located in a corner with decorative rugs or elaborate décor, guests can discover their future fortunes or inquire about their past lives. If you are having a company or corporate party, they could possibly offer a prediction for the upcoming year. Hopefully it will be a positive one!

For a retro, nostalgic feel, a barbershop quartet dressed in matching red and white costumes can definitely add a different “tone” to your affair. Personally I would hire this group, though I feel that they may be difficult to book.

Before you decide to reserve any extra entertainment at your next party, make sure that you meet beforehand to review any necessary parameters or discuss the general flow of the evening.  If your dream is to have that barbershop quartet serenade everyone with “Bohemian Rhapsody,” make sure your wish is not overlooked!

by Meredith Darts

Meet Graham Cornelis!

The blend of art and science. 

Graham is one of our finest Rental Consultants and has managed some of our largest and most complex events.  Graham has a cult following in our widely recognized Newsletter within a monthly section named "Where's Graham?" In that section, we chart his travels since he is certainly our road warrior, from Georgia to Maine and all points in between and beyond.

Born in Mount Kisco, New York, his family moved to Connecticut when he was in 2nd grade and he's been a CT resident ever since.  An industry professional for over 32 years, Graham has been with Stamford Tent for 15 years.

A happy whistler, he can always be heard coming from across the office. Playfulness along with an introspective nature, Graham is a great person and a valuable member of our team.

Here's more about Graham in his Q&A:


Best Part of Your Job:  
"In some jobs people say “it’s the same old same old”. While it's true we do a lot of tents, each client and project is unique. The blend of art and science. The art is in the design. The science is in detail of building something that will work. All these factors make this a very interesting and challenging career. I have not been bored in 32 years."

How did you become a Minnesota Vikings fan?  
"As most long stories, high school, cafeteria, talking sports, easy to be a NY or New England fan. So we agreed to be different. Old school Central Division was agreed upon. One friend got Green Bay, one got the Lions and I got the Vikings. If they ever go to the Super Bowl (ouch they lost 4 already) I will go…."

What would you name the autobiography of your life?
"'The Accidental Tent Man'.

Jon Bon Jovi called me "Tent Man" some years back, as he wore a Superman shirt - true story.  Ya know, Superman/Tentman...you get it.  So maybe the title would be just, Tent Man."

What is your favorite outdoor activity?
"Does having an Adult Beverage by the Ocean count as activity?"

If you could choose to stay a certain age forever, what age would it be and why?
"I would say 40. Old enough to know better, but young enough not to care."

Most random thing on your iPod right now:
"Not much randomness in what I do ( while that may appear to be a contradiction). I have a deep respect for all kinds of music. I stumble upon something and then I dig deep."

What was your favorite childhood cartoon?
"Wow…since I old when cartoons were in black and white.. there are several.
Astro boy, Eighth Man, and all things Bugs Bunny."

If you could have dinner with anybody at all, living or dead…who would it be?
"While I am not really deeply religious, I think spending time with Jesus Christ would be very interesting.  If that’s too deep, I would settle on Ben Franklin. He did a lot and had the courage not to want to be President."

Meet Meredith Darts!

A little sweet; A little nutty.

Meredith began her career at Stamford Tent as a member of our sales support staff in March of 2012.  In addition to that role, she now serves as marketing assistant to the VP of Sales & Marketing.  She has really taken to both positions and has proven to be a dedicated and vastly talented member of the team.

Originally from Monroe, NY, Meredith has recently brought her small town, rural upbringing to the big city, as she moved to Manhattan with her fiancé.  Often working on the train during her commute, she also enjoys catching up on casual reading during the trip.

While Meredith is very polite and well spoken - some may think a little shy - don't let her fool you. When she gets on the kickball field, she's a killer!!!

A little more about Meredith with Q&A:

Best Part of Your Job:
"Developing relationships with clients. I really enjoy working with people as they plan their events, and it’s amazing how much you learn about someone through phone calls and e-mail."

What was your favorite childhood tv program?
"David the Gnome"

What has been your funniest work moment?
"Our parking lot has been a source of amusement."

If you could have any superpower, what would you choose?
"Ability to fly"

What’s your idea of a perfect Saturday?
"Going for a long walk with a cinnamon raisin bagel and coffee in hand."

If you were a cupcake, what kind of cupcake would you be?
"Carrot cake cupcake – a little sweet; a little nutty"

Most random thing on your iPod right now:
"Rainbow Connection by Kermit the Frog"

Who is your secret celebrity crush?
"Jon Hamm"

Early bird or night owl?
"Night owl"

Nicknames?
"Meri to my family, Darts during kickball"

A "Blooming" Trend

Over the next few months, summer fêtes and annual galas will begin to dominate social calendars. Each year, hosts and organizations try to outdo themselves and create lavish, memorable events. Trends and themes are already emerging and becoming noticed by people in the event industry. One trend that has been increasing in popularity is incorporating more outdoor and natural elements into overall décor. Designers and planners are putting grand arrangements at the forefront, and constructing elaborate floral surprises for guests and spectators alike.

Recently at the annual Daffodil Ball in Montreal, guests partook in a “Great Gatsby” themed event. Models dressed in 1920s attire greeted guests as they arrived to the venue, and breathtaking chandeliers floated above while crystal candelabras served as perfect centerpieces. What tied the event together were the 50,000 daffodils that were scattered throughout the ballroom. The novel’s signature flower highlighted the evening’s theme and underscored the gala’s overall mission of supporting the Canadian Cancer Society. Each year, the number of daffodils typically increases; maybe next year they will be up to 75,000!

At last month’s Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute Benefit, punk was the word. To coincide with the opening of the Costume Institute’s exhibition Punk: Chaos to Couture, the museum was transported back to the mid 1970s with bright colors, abstract prints, and countless safety pins. However, the showstopper was the grand staircase that led guests to the exhibition. Oversize American and British flags made entirely of 150,000 red, white, and blue roses flanked each side of the staircase, and immediately set the tone for the entire evening.

Though not everyone can recreate extravagant displays at home, this trend can help inspire hosts and hostesses, especially during a tented event. A white top or white walled marquee offers planners a world of possibilities. With a blank canvas, flowers can add flashes of vibrant color against the white background and help set the mood. Alternatively, if you decide on a clear top or clear sidewalls, the line between inside and out becomes almost nonexistent. Guests can enjoy sitting in a floral setting while watching a brilliant sunset or appreciating a star-filled evening. Either tenting option ensures that your event will be a success no matter what Mother Nature has in mind.

When you start planning your next event, consider including an eye-catching arrangement that will truly amaze everyone attending. Your friends and guests will be awe in of your styling and decorating abilities! 

Thank you to Barbara Esses,Preston Bailey, Decor & More Inc., and Raul Avila Inc. for these wonderful displays!

by Meredith Darts

Meet Ian Rangel!

Gone Fishing

Ian has been with Stamford Tent & Event Services for 2 1/2 years.  Whoever hired him must be a genius (heh heh) because Ian, one of our Rental Consultants, has been a superstar for our company from the start.

From small projects to the large and extravagant, he has tackled every obstacle with enthusiasm and professionalism, while providing the type of service to his clients that Stamford Tent has been built upon for the past 60 years.  I'm proud to say that Ian was our Rental Consultant of the Year in 2012!

More about Ian -

Best Part of Your Job:
"Not being stuck in the office all day every day, seeing some very unique properties, and getting to see blues traveler while working."

Yankees or Mets? Giants or Jets? Knicks or Nets?
"Yankees, Giants, Knicks"

If you could have any superpower, what would you choose?
"fly"

What’s your idea of a perfect Saturday?
"Sleep in, go fishing, find cooperative fish."

If you were a flavor of Ice Cream, which flavor would you be?
"Haagen daaz coffee-I love coffee"

Most random thing on your iPod right now:
"Macklemore"

What was your favorite childhood cartoon?
"Roadrunner"

Who has been your favorite boss of all time?
"Rick Bisesto" (good answer!!)

Nicknames:
"Easy E.  Also, thanks to JBo... 'Ira'.  In fact, people in high school even called me Ira long before JBo."

Meet Nicole Corona!

When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro.

Nicole is a member of our Sales Support team and has recently celebrated her one year anniversary with Stamford Tent!

She works directly with Mike McKeon, one of our Rental Consultants on a daily basis.  They’re rounding into a great team, even if they do fight like brother and sister from time to time.  

Nicole is originally from New York and has recently become a resident of Connecticut.  Here are a few other Q&A’s that are vital to having a complete understanding of who Nicole Corona is and what makes her tick:

Best Part of Your Job:
"Working with clients to help them produce their special events, from the very start of the concept, to the final product, through removal of our equipment."

Yankees or Mets? Giants or Jets? Knicks or Nets?
"Yankees, Giants, Knicks"

If you could have any superpower, what would you choose?
"Either the ability to read people’s minds or time travel" 

What’s your idea of a perfect Saturday?
"Going to the park with my dog."

Favorite Ice Cream:
"Rocky Road"

Most random thing on your iPod right now:
"The Legend of Zelda - don't ask."

What would you name the autobiography of your life?
"When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro."

Do you know the whereabouts of Waldo?
"I believe he currently resides in Kim Kardashian's booty. Right cheek."

Nicknames:
"At work - Nicki News; Everywhere else – Nicki or Nickels" 

The Quest For The Perfect Location

Selecting a venue is typically one of the first items that planners and party hosts decide upon when planning an event. This can potentially help you finalize a date, set a theme, or confirm a guest count. When you visit potential venues, it is in your best interest to be prepared, and have your preliminary requirements thought out. By doing this, you should be able to select a setting that works with your vision, and will hopefully help you save time in the end! Although you may absolutely fall in love with a space or setting immediately, it is best to do a little investigating before you sign on the dotted line. Here are some suggestions as you begin the pursuit!

Time restrictions – This can be an issue if you are buying out a restaurant or holding a reception at a popular banquet hall. Knowing ahead of time when vendors or guests can arrive can help you plan and schedule accordingly. I recently visited a site that allowed small items to be dropped off early in the day, but the venue would not look out for them. Not ideal. Especially if you are planning an elaborate celebration or foresee a lot of deliveries, discuss this issue with a manager or supervisor. If you can work this out ahead of time, it will definitely save you headaches later on!

Vendor Parameters – Some sites have a list of preferred or authorized vendors they often work with. Be sure to ask for this before you have your heart set on a particular florist. Alternatively, if you are the very beginning of your planning process, this may help you select vendors. These people know the space very well, and can possibly offer suggestions to help enhance your ideas.

Permits, Zoning, and Public Restrictions – Nobody wants his/her function to be shut down by the local authorities! Each town and municipality usually has parameters that hosts and function have to adhere to when throwing a bash. Go online or visit your town’s building department to find out if you need to file paperwork, what needs to be included, and how much the potential permit fees are. In some places, such as New York City, it is best to file early since it can take several weeks to have all paperwork authorized and approved.

Local Amenities & Accommodations – If you plan on having a lot people in from out of town, make sure that there is appropriate parking or public transportation near by, as well as hotels and restaurants. If parking is an issue, decide if you want to provide a shuttle service from Point A to Point B. This is actually a great way to make sure that no one gets lost getting to the space and for guests to meet each other in a casual, celebratory environment.

Though it may require some homework, being prepared will hopefully result in an enjoyable, memorable occasion for all! Happy searching! 

by Meredith Darts

A Beautiful Day in the Park

Spring has arrived! The Women's Committee of the Central Park Conservancy held its annual Frederick Law Olmsted Awards Luncheon yesterday at the Conservatory Garden. Proceeds from this popular luncheon go directly to preserving and maintaining Central Park. And what a perfect day they had for their annual event! Stamford Tent has been working with the Conservancy for years, and was happy and honored to once again be a part of this wonderful celebration!

As the photos below highlight, the event has also become known as the "Hat Luncheon." Although hats are not required, the majority of attendees wore a celebratory topper for the occasion. Be sure to share your favorite fascinator with us!

by Meredith Darts