Plan It! Magazine Fall 2021 Edition by Star Trax Events

fall 2021

Caterers Design + Décor Desserts Entertainment Fashion Floral Giveaways Invitations Photographers Planners Transportation Trends Venues Videographers

HEIRLOOM catering

& events

HEIRLOOM catering

& events

Heirloom Catering & Events Planning on having 35 or 300?

Tailoring the occasion from micro intimate events to expansive gatherings. From boxed lunches to elegant special occasions. Let us create an inspired menu and event plan that is uniquely yours. We now offer a stunning atrium open-air tent from April - October on our fountain view terrace. Contact us for a personalized tour of our spaces and to meet our event team! Call Stephanie Brovenick for questions or to schedule your tour: 248-661-5700 - 133

5725 WALNUT LAKE ROAD, WEST BLOOMFIELD MI 48323 | TEMPLE-ISRAEL.ORG/CATERER

FA L L 2 0 2 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS 05 1 0 W A Y S T O P A C K A D A N C E F L O O R 09 P A R T Y T R E N D S 2 0 2 1 13 E V E N T H I G H L I G H T 18 B U D G E T B A S I C S 21 T H E E V E N T S H O W 2 0 2 1 E X H I B I T O R S 24 S T A R T R A X A C T I V I T Y G U I D E

A Letter from the President There is a light at the end of the tunnel. We all want to get back to the things we love and, in our business, the things we love are … events and people! While the pandemic has created many challenges for the events and entertainment industry, we believe Star Trax will come out stronger, wiser, and better prepared to quickly adapt to the changing needs of our clients. We are in the office, listening and making parties happen – safely! Our planners have been busy holding the hands of our customers and mentoring those who need our support in the industry. Throughout the pandemic, our planners were focused on uncovering new and exciting ideas and staying on top of trends. Finding something fresh and

Contributors Publisher Star Trax Events President Geoff Kretchmer Creative Director Becca Schlussel Graphic Designer Michael Hnatiuk

original is awesome but implementing it in real time is when we bring events to life. And what better way to showcase some of our great finds, than

Photographers

through our semi-annual magazine.

Blaine Siesser Photography Brett Mountain Photography

It was easy to pick our party highlight for this edition. How often do you get an opportunity to transform a blank slate – literally! We were challenged with a 20,000 sq ft RAW warehouse and the request to “make it beautiful!” Peek at the finished product on page 13. We had so much fun creating this event. Now that events are starting up again, we’re getting tons of event planning questions – both COVID and non-COVID related. The biggest question we are asked is “Will we ever pack a dance floor again?” The answer is yes! The dance floor will remain the focal point and with our suggestions, this is where your guests will spend the majority of the night. Budget is another important question when planning an event. Details and answers can be found in this edition. We are optimistic about the future of social gatherings. Rescheduled parties and upcoming celebrations are quickly filling the calendars of many in

Justin Munter Photography Kari Dawson Photography Kate Saler Photography Ron Lieberman Photography Cover photo provided by Kari Dawson Rachel and Dan Broder Wedding

Star Trax Team President Geoff Kretchmer Partner Brian Siegel Senior Event Director Jen Ajlouny Senior Event Director Shannon McConnell Event Manager Sidra Kovan Event Manager Jacquelyn Dorris Production Director Jimmy Lees Production Technician Alex Radatz Valet Director Gilad Rozin

the business. Venues and vendors are working around the clock to meet

Marketing Director Becca Schlussel

customers’ needs and help create special moments and memories.

Graphic Designer Michael Hnatiuk

Be kind as you navigate the events world as many industry professionals

Office Manager Loren Stone

are short staffed and working hard to rebuild their team. Our employees

Controller Cindy Timoff

are family, and our customers are our greatest gift. We will continue to take pride in everything we touch while providing exceptional customer service

Accountant Amy Dunlap Maintenance Director Brian Cafmeyer

at every turn. See you on the dance floor!

Geoff Kretchmer President, Star Trax Events

startrax.com / 248.263.6300 / info@startrax.com 2560 Wolcott / Ferndale, MI 48220

ANDRE DENNIS

1 2 3 4 5

Put the “party people” up in front. Keep your elderly guests away from the perimeter of the dance floor. While you may want to make it easier for them to hear the speeches and provide easy access to the floor, a buffer of party people is a win/win for their ears - and your party! Hire a great DJ and Emcee, and then TRUST them. Every party has its own personality. Some guests may pack the dance floor from the moment they enter the room, while others may need a bit more coaxing. An experienced DJ and Emcee will know what works best. Utilize a smaller dance floor. Even if most of your guests are on the dance floor, a dance floor that is too big will feel empty. Smaller dance floors fill faster, creating high energy. You may wish to create an open area around the dance floor (free of tables) to allow for additional dancers. Avoid competing interactive experiences that require guests to stand in line. Consider using a ticket or numbering system so guests can spend their time on the dance floor, rather than waiting their turn. Keeping guests constantly engaged is the goal. Put your DJ right next to the dance floor. In order to do his job well, your DJ must be in close proximity to the action. Walls, drapes, tables, and other barriers may look pretty in the planning stages, but when it comes to keeping your guests engaged on the floor, your DJ needs a direct line of sight to read cues from the crowd.

FREDDIE

TEDDY JARED

ELRICO

PARIS GEORGE JOSH

6 7 8 9 10

SEAN

Offer a grand prize that is visually appealing. Small prizes distributed on the dance floor throughout a party (gift cards) help keep a crowd on its toes. A larger item will keep guests’ “eyes on the prize.” Depending on the age of the crowd, consider pro sports team apparel, headphones, electronics, or huge stuffed animals. Consider passing desserts! While an overflowing sweet table looks, sounds, and smells enticing, consider having the banquet staff pass small, casual desserts out on the dance floor! Imagine a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie with a shot glass of milk. Dim the lights. Your party lights and decor will “pop” and your guests will flock. Keeping the lights to a minimum encourages dance floor participation from sometimes shy and apprehensive guests. Keep the “Must Play” and “Do Not Play” lists to a minimum. Certainly, you’re the boss, and a good DJ will respect your wishes. Some of your favorite songs may not work well in a live party setting, while others may be more successful in bringing your crowd to its feet. Give your DJ the power to make magic. Get out on the dance floor and DANCE! Your friends and family want to be where YOU are. If you are involved and genuinely enjoy yourself on the dance floor, then your guests will too.

Blaine Siesser Photography

Planning an event at a venue with no kitchen – NO PROBLEM! Meet Kristin Brochert and her event coordination team from Trailer Events (TE). Kristin’s business filled a major void in the Metro Detroit event world. Mobile Kitchens were not only needed for restoration projects but were a welcomed addition into the private event space. Now, you can literally have a full-service food and beverage event anywhere!

Outdoor event, NO PROBLEM!! You cannot imagine how popular their bathroom trailer has become. We were fascinated by the beauty and functionality of these units. With separate entrances for men and women, the restrooms have private stalls, stainless trim mirrored

vanities, hand sinks with warm water, LED lighting, and ventilation complete with heating and cooling systems in place. The need for mobile bathroom solutions has been solved.

You hopefully have seen Trailer Events’ handiwork at the most successful tailgates around town. When your business or family is looking to create the ultimate experience at your

favorite sporting event – one call and they will not only have a parking lot reserved by the

appropriate stadium, but also a fully outfitted state-of-the-art tailgating trailer. These units are designed and equipped with a stainless-steel refrigerator, microwave, gas grill, generator,

and a private restroom. The trailers also include a HDTV monitor with Bluetooth capabilities. When you arrive, the tent, tables, chairs, beverage coolers, and disposables will all be in

place and ready to go. Need a caterer, that is easy too. Trailer Events is a one stop shop – GO TEAM!

Kristin and her knowledgeable staff have taken the stumbling blocks out of hosting events.

Their mobile kitchens, specialty trailers, and executive restroom trailers can be used for any event, whether it’s a sophisticated corporate gathering or a backyard BBQ. Your search ends here.

TE is not only the leader in Metro Detroit for every high-end event trailer, but it has also

morphed into a full-service event coordination and design firm – handling all aspects of event planning. As the needs of their clients grew so did their arsenal of rentals. From catering

supplies and linens to tents and functional furniture (couches and chairs, coffee tables and more), they have everything you need to transform any space.

Trailer Events is fun to work with and is passionate about customer service and client

satisfaction. No matter the size or location – Kristin and her team can handle everything.

1470 Souter Drive • Troy, MI 48083 • (855) 388-8300 • trailerevents.com

Justin Munter Photography

PARTY Kate Saler Photography

TRENDS Brett Mountain Photography

2021 9

You typically have five hours (or less) to pack a ton of punch into your celebration. As planners, our goal is to give guests something to remember – pieces of the event that will stay with them long after it has ended. No matter the occasion, start with a list of must-haves and dream up ways to make them memorable. Design, food, activities, and souvenirs can all be lifted to the next level with creativity and imagination. We asked our planners to share their favorite finds for the upcoming event season. Guests are excited to celebrate again. They are ready for invitations to arrive and are eager to gather, once again, with friends and colleagues.

F LO R A L WA L L S / G R E E N S PAC E S No matter the season, indoor or outdoor, live backdrops are big. Your eyes will be drawn to this spectacular focal point that can be used as a backdrop for pictures, or as a place to house placecards or party souvenirs.

NEON SIGNAGE Add your company name or a creative tagline in neon lights. It can be a fun and original addition to the party and can later be displayed on your office or home walls.

FO O D T R U C K S A R E H E R E TO S TAY As a safer and more sanitary way to feed guests at events, food trucks have evolved into an absolute must, adding fun and flexibility. Appetizer, main course, or dessert – there is something for everyone.

TENTS - WITH OR WITHOUT CEILINGS We have learned that having a backup plan for an outdoor function is necessary. If you are confident that the weather will cooperate, skip the top. Adorn it with lights and be truly under the stars.

GO BOLD If you are afraid to go big – GO BOLD. Don’t skimp on the color. Mix and match – use color accents wherever possible.

YO U R S H O E S M AT T E R Long gone are the days of stilettos. Thank goodness sneakers are IN! With a suit, with a dress – high tops or low, solid or multicolored, painted or sequined – the options are endless. Do not leave home without your comfy kicks!

UNIQUE DANCE FLOORS The dance floor should be the focal point of the room. Get creative with an acrylic floor wrapped in vinyl. Incorporate patterns and logos to brand your event. This design element truly takes your décor to the next level.

t h g i N on e N a to Remember

Most would walk into an empty 20,000 square foot warehouse and think

‘impossible.’ An event planner, however, sees a blank canvas. A space filled with opportunities. A space where they can let their imagination go wild. A space that can reflect their creative vision and make their client’s dream a reality. Such was the case when we designed and created the unique and personalized wedding event for the Wickman & Cook families. Veering away from the traditional wedding experience, we converted a raw space into the wedding of their dreams. From the plush white carpeting, custom ceiling installation, impactful backdrop, incredible food, and fairy-tale lighting, we transformed an industrial space into a magical venue. Working with our trusted vendors, we revamped the entire place. Installing boxwood and greenery, hanging special lighting, building a black and white checkered dance floor, setting up creative food displays, creating personalized tables adorned with patterned charger plates, and adding custom pillows to the seating arrangements set the stage for a wedding wonderland for Alexis and Spencer and an unforgettable guest experience!

the Team

Photography by Blaine Siesser Photography Star Trax Events / Jeffrey Floral Architecture Fabulous Events / Event Source Pruett Custom Events / Trailer Events Band Ayd Events Group Linens and Beyond Designs by Debbie LeClaire UDesign Event Rentals / Top That Table Cutting Edge Cuisine BellaVino Fine Wine & Spirits All Star VIP / Visi Productions The Red Coat Ladies

Great Lakes

Culinary Center

Special Events Venue & Offsite Catering Services

24101 West 9 Mile Rd. Southfield mi, 48033 (248) 286-3100 | Glculinarycenter.com

At What Cost? B U D G E T

B A S I C S

Working within a budget is the best way to start formulating a “plan.” Typically, a client will have a number in mind that they are comfortable spending, and one they do not want to exceed. It is very important to start here as it will help you determine your venue or location. If your total budget is $35K and you are in love with a space that has an average spend of $30K on a Saturday night, you will know that this is not the right place for you! Prioritize your needs first. These include venue, food & beverage, entertainment, photographer/videographer and décor. Once you have accounted for these items, the remaining balance can be put toward rentals, souvenirs, activities, invitations, lighting, clothing and more. The best planners always build in a “miscellaneous” line item for overages and last-minute add-ons. We recommend saving at least 5% of your total budget for the “just in case” category. If you spend it, at least you were prepared. If you choose to work with a planner, they will know the costs and be able to easily help you build a team of professionals that fit your vision and budget. Planners also have the ability to identify items that, if eliminated, will not impact the integrity of the event. If you are planning on your own, a clear budget will save you time as you begin making calls and collecting prices. Be sure to ask about set up and delivery fees and overtime rates. Some industries do not include these figures in the initial quote. Celebrations happen regardless of the budget. Remember, it’s the people that make the party!

Photos by Kari Dawson Photography

WEDDINGS, OUTDOOR COURTYARD, ATTACHED HOTEL, BAR & BAT MITZVAHS, CONFERENCES, MEETINGS & MORE!

W E H AV E I T A L L ! 46100 GRAND RIVER AVE. NOVI, MI . 248-348-5600 WWW.DIAMONDBANQUETCENTER.COM

For future exhibitor information, please contact: becca@startrax.com

Our 18th Annual balloons

decorator / planner

event rentals

Rockin’ Robot Party Co. Nikki Skrobot (517) 376-8083 rockinrobotparty.com

Andrea Solomon Event Planner Andrea Solomon (248) 535-0402 andreasolomon.com

Affairs to Remember Iva Harrison (248) 926-8430 affairstorememberonline.com

Visual Fantasies Balloons Greg Taylor (313) 737-5607 vfballoons.com

Designs by Debbie LeClaire Debbie LeClaire (248) 379-0935 debbieleclairedesigns.com

Alpha Amusements Chris Pascaretti (248) 583-1000 alpha-amusements.com

catering

Leave it to Lauren Event Planning and Design Lauren Jackson (248) 563-1118 facebook.com/leaveittolaurenevents

Trailer Events Kristin Brochert (855) 388-8300 trailerevents.com

Annabel’s & Co. Catering Julie Herman (248) 813-7800 annabelscatering.com Heirloom Catering & Events Carole Wendling (248) 661-5700 x 152 temple-israel.org/caterer

dessert / fun foods

The Red Coat Ladies Pat Blackwell (248) 496-4572 redcoatladies.com

Culinary Combo Bakery Jessica Barris & Jodie Polk (248) 624-9594 culinarycombobakery.com

Star Trax Events Shannon McConnell (248) 263-6300 startrax.com

Milkster Nitrogen Creamery Marius Pop (248) 509-0547 milkster.com

entertainment

Rollow Bar Austin Yaldo (313) 473-9699 rollowbar.com Sno Biz Detroit Mickey Ellis (313) 574-0445 snobizdetroit.com

Mandell Display Design Jenna Urbauer (248) 351-0800 mandelldisplay.com

Dapper Dan Magic Dan Sperling (248) 671-3078 dapperdanmagic.net Escape Room Novi Daniel Barr (248) 308-2500 escaperoomnovi.com Star Trax Events Shannon McConnell (248) 263-6300 startrax.com

Udesign Event Rental Joe Jargis (248) 872-9504 udesigneventrental.com

gifts / favors Airbrushed Stuff Catherine Pike (734) 664-0958 airbrushedstuff.com Bling Bling by Karen Karen Simon (201) 679-7883 blingblingbykaren.com Winning Imprints & Custom Trophies, LTD Emma Zerkel (248) 681-3191 winningimprints.com

hotel Hampton Inn West Bloomfield Home2 Suites West Bloomfield Holiday Inn Express & Suites FH Valerie Wiese (248) 671-6500

southfieldwestbloomfield.hamptoninn.com westbloomfielddetroit.home2suitesbyhilton.com hiexpress.com/farmingtonhill

invitations The Paper Press Franci Hirsch (248) 568-1739 thepaperpress.net

photography AC Productions Alec Cohen (248) 568-8139 cohenalec.com

View Detroit Leslie Byrd (313) 257-2099 viewdetroit.com

High Velocity Sports Elaine Matthews (734) 487-7678 hvsports.com

valet parking

MovementofDance Toni Smith (248) 807-3430 movementofdance.org

Star Trax Valet Gilad Rozin (248) 263-6300 startrax.com

venue / party space

videography

Frameable Faces Ally & Doug Cohen (248) 790-7317 frameablefaces.com

Beverly Hills Club Sandra Arafat (248) 642-8500 beverlyhillsclub.net

Justin Munter Photography Justin Munter (248) 245-5925 justinmunter.com

Diamond Center at the Suburban Collection Showplace Courtney Wood (248) 348-5600 x 227 diamondbanquetcenter.com

Lieberman Photography Ron Lieberman (248) 706-0100 liebermanphotography.com Masserman Photography Brian Masserman (248) 346-6791 massermanphotography.com Paul Stoloff Photography Paul Stoloff (248) 207-4678 www.paulstoloff.photo TapSnap Detroit Raymond Lousia (248) 419-1047 tapsnapdetroit.com

Zap Zone Farmington Khyra King (248) 471-6777 zap-zone.com

District 5 Detroit contact@district5detroit.com district5detroit.com Fifth Avenue Royal Oak Megan Male (248) 560-7700 fifthaveroyaloak.com

Blue Puffin Media Aaron Rudman (248) 613-8942 blue-puffin-media.com Oy Video Marissa Murphy (248) 797-1829 facebook.com/oyvideo Sider Mill Video Eli Sider (248) 808-1489 sidermillvideo.com