AHA! Moments from BizBash Live 2016
A few weeks ago, nearly 1,500 event professionals gathered in South Florida for BizBash Live: a day of inspiration, education, and mingling with the top names in event design and production. BBC’s Creative Services Manager, Jeanne Taber Tompkins, was there to soak up all the inspiration! She brought back her “AHA Moments” to share with our team, clients, and you…
AHA! #1:
Everything I saw in the expo was immediately interpreted through the lens of my city. New Orleans is packed with visual stimulation and everyday is full of unique surprises from ExhibitBe’s street art to the mysterious flora that blooms every season. For example, BizBash’s natural element inspired luncheon immediately made me think of the beautiful wetlands that surround our city and how we could make a really elegant swamp inspired evening using some of those same concepts.
AHA! #2:
Travel and adventure must be a constant factor in my life, and I am so lucky to work for a company that understands that (#BBCNolaTravels). It is easy to get in a comfortable groove – which can stifle creativity. Travel gives you a new perspective and allows you to see what’s out there! I walked away from BizBash Live with a stack of new contacts and ideas that I would have never found sitting at my desk.
AHA! #3:
It’s an exciting time to be bold. I specifically find this to be true in the realm of interior design. I toured the home of artist Frederic Clay Bartlett while at BizBash Live. The bright colors, coupled with the architecture and artwork was all encompassing. I love spaces that excite the senses while still serving a function. I especially love the work of Dorothy Draper and her work in the 1930’s and 1940’s. Today, I think designers like Miles Redd are continuing that tradition of boldness. The recent Southern Style Now Festival in New Orleans continued this theme with their designer show house. Bold design is a must while in New Orleans – I hope to make all of our events this year bold.
AHA! #4:
Museums and historic homes are the best inspiration for event designers! The first thing I did after booking my trip to Ft. Lauderdale, was to research the local history and museum scene. That is where I found the Bonnet House. While I loved meeting the vendors and professionals at BizBash Live, exploring outside of the convention center walls is where it all came together. Touring the house I began to envision new design elements and how I could incorporate my new contacts. In New Orleans, I also love the Longue Vue House and Gardens to get that boost of inspiration.
