Now that my wounds from Jacob Javits Center Drayage Hell are healing, I can fill you in on what I learned at the BizBash IDEAFEST — the annual trade show and conference for event planners in New York.
Stilts were In This Year: You could not swing a dead cat and avoid hitting the kneecap of someone on stilts at this year’s show, promoting venues and novelty acts and doing so in grand vertical style. These gals were able to bend over to pick up Maui Wowi smoothies at our booth — and do it while smiling. I could not do that. Bravo!
Here’s another interesting take on moveable human promotion — from Screaming Queens. A little Disneyesque — in a good way.
- Standing Room Only Shoeshine: Star Shine bills itself as “the ultimate shoeshine,” and while I could not bring myself to have my own shoes shined, many other gents availed themselves.
- Selfies Galore: Digital video technology has given a refresh to the idea of a photo booth for events. While I miss the nostalgia of the drugstore booth that printed 5 blurry black and white images, the array of photo booth choices that allow different backgrounds and effects is pretty nifty. My favorite was the Motorbooth — a truck that comes to events. Its interior is tricked out as a digital photo studio. It takes four photos and prints them fast, and an attendant takes your email address and sends you a copy in addition to giving you a printed version right there in seconds. A no brainer idea for big gatherings.
- Hmmmm, Good. The food sampling was diverse and creative. Obviously, the best samples were smoothies and espresso drinks from Maui Wowi.
But event planners don’t live by drink alone. My favorite foods included Sweet Dreams Gourmet Mini Donuts. Todd Jones was pumping out 1200 of the lightest, melt-in-your-mouth doughnuts every hour. I am a model of restraint and had exactly two. And you know, with something so good, two was just fine. This is a fantastic idea for end of a mitzvah party or corporate event. (Remember, you’ll need some Maui Wowi espresso to go with it.)
I also really loved Treat House, which makes the most delicious crispy rice treats you have ever had. And again, I had exactly two. They have a store in Manhattan and fortunately accept mail orders for the holidays.
- From the Sublime to the Ridiculous: Well, it was the day before Halloween. I have three complimentary passes to Scores, worth $50 each. Let me know if you want one!
Want to find out more about having Maui Wowi smoothies or coffees for your event? Click below.
We serve: Smoothies, Coffee, Espressos, Cappuccinos, Daiquiris, Margaritas, Frozen Cocktails & Chocolate beverages catered for your events & parties. We're completely mobile: we can set up just about anywhere, indoors or out, summer or winter. 