Designing the Perfect Celebration: let yourself be inspired by this Scandinavian Frozen Party
Behind the Scenes + Cellphone Pictures
Petite Events
Celebrating Spring With Pastels
Designing the Perfect Celebration: let yourself be inspired by this Celebrating Spring with Pastels Party
A Pastel Easter with Low Table
Designing the Perfect Celebration: let yourself be inspired by this Pastel Easter with Low Table Party
Boho Chic First Birthday
Designing the perfect celebration: let yourself be inspired by this Boho Chic Party
Dylan’s First Birthday
Danisa of Adal Kreation Events styled and designed a Dylan’s Candy Bar inspired first birthday party using our mini ghost chairs and tables. Danisa explained the inspiration for her design below:
The idea was to recreate the Dylan's Candy Bar logo design and make it unique while preserving its essence and details. This theme was all about having fun and thinking out of the box. My design for table numbers. Each table had an original gift basket tower from @dylanscandybar for guest to take home. 🍭🍬🍫
Source It:
Event Design | Styling | Favor boxes @adalkreation .
Production Assistant: @archicrafts.studio
Cake & mini cakes: @krisota
Cookies: @brendas_sweet_treats
Balloons: @mpballoonsdecor
Graphic design: @gabzstudio.gloriabarrera
Kids ghost chairs + Kids tables: @petiteseats
Photography: @miguelpichardophotography
The Bambini Soiree - {Long}
One of my business goals this year was to aggressively network. Back in April, Bambini Soirée announced they were producing a summit especially for businesses who catered to children’s events. In a word, I was stoked! I talked myself out of the ARA’s February conference and was in need of some networking and sharing of ideas from people in my industry. I paid half of the reservation fee the same week it was announced and anxiously waited for the first week of August.
I flew into Fort Lauderdale, Florida thinking I would save a few bucks on my flight, not considering I would be spending about $80 on Uber. See what happens when you try to be cheap?!
While at the conference I sat in 8 workshops, each giving me insightful advice on moving my business forward. The conference, themed “Let’s gather and soar!”, was held at the upscale Eden Roc Miami Beach Hotel. I arrived at the hotel and was in awe of the vibrant colors of the registration setup. Check out the images below:
Source It! {First Day Registration}
Event: @bambinisoireesummit
Venue: @edenrocmiamibeach
Decor & Rentals: @bambinisoiree
Event Planning & Styling: @oneinspiredparty
Production: @maxon_productions
Photography: @infinitecreations
Videography: @mylittlerhinostudios
Cake Stand Rentals: @nicksandmay
Printing @whatever_loquesea
Balloons @qualatex @funnyballoons
Portrait Salon: @manolodoreste
Swag Bags: @talkingoutofturn
Bunting Station: @designplanplay & @monicapardoevents for @onceuponaroom
Make up station : @lovelylocksparties
Cookies: @chocolatibar
Water bottle: @christyandcophoto
Sparkling Water: @sparklingice
Ice Cream: @lollifruit
Below is a recap of my notes taken at each workshop:
Introductory Message from Johanna Dilone, founder of Bambini Soiree Summit
The MC for the introductory convocation was Manolo Doreste, luxury wedding photographer and good friend of Johanna. He spoke briefly and in a compelling inauguration speech he shared his admiration for Bambini Soiree founder, Johanna. He ended his address with, “Step forward into growth or step backward into safety”.
Johanna offered her ABCs on being an entrepreneur. As she went through the 26 letters of the alphabet infused with her adept entrepreneurship experience. Here are a few words of advice she bestowed upon us to jumpstart the conference:
Make sure your work speaks for itself AND it’s loud enough! You have to standout!
You have to think of yourself as a business — it’s its own entity.
Being different adds value to your brand.
Put things in place to automate how clients reach you. — There is value in a phone call.
Stress, a problem, a mistake, that’s a phone call — Texting doesn’t convey emotions.
Make it a point to connect with your clients after their events.
When you see that the market doesn’t want to pay you for what you are offering — Shift it!
Commit to quality!
Treat your business like a business and it will pay you as a business. Treat it as a hobby . . .
Sacrifice - what are you willing to give up to have what you want.
The biggest failure you can have in life is making the mistake of never trying at all.
Kids need experiences to be better humans. {in reference to closing of Toys’R’Us}
We are in the business of wow!
CREATE EPIC EXPERIENCES!
The first night, we experienced the design + styling prowess of the Bambini Soiree team with the production of the Unicorn Dreams Welcome Party!
Source It!
Event @bambinisoireesummit
Venue @edenrocmiamibeach
Decor & Balloons @bambinisoiree
Linens & Stools @atlaseventrentals
Event Planning & Styling @oneinspiredparty
Production & aerialist structure @maxon_productions
Catering @cateringincolor
Photography @infinitecreations
Videography @mylittlerhinostudios
Cake Stand Rentals @nicksandmay
Printing @whatever_loquesea
Balloons @universalballoonsusa
Unicorn Poop Cookies and Sweets @msbunniescakes
Bunting Station @designplanplay & @monicapardoevents for @onceuponaroom
Glitter make up station @lovelylocksparties
Candy boxes @miamicandies @sewsweetcrafts
Vodka @voli305vodka
Mixers @qdrinks
Rum @atlanticorum
Ice Sculpture: @sculptured_ice
Wholesale Flower Distributor @continentalflowers
Wait Staff @liloshands
Photobooth @capturepod
DJ & Violinist @alventoentertainment
Entertainment @fairytalefavorites
Paper Goods @talkingtablesparty
Apparel & Embroidery @miamimixedmadia
Champagne Station @penthouserw
Julia Harper, PhD — Blame It On The Brain
Response vs. Reaction — Respond don’t React
Our brain requires discomfort for change.
Discomfort is the birthplace of change!
You are reacting more than you know {~80%}.
You can’t bring success to a business by reacting.
Giving kids an explanation {trying to give them certainly} breeds anxiety in children.
SEE — CHANGE — DO!
Sandy — You Can Call Me Sweetie | Go Ahead + Jump! : Taking the leap from corporate job to purse your passion!
Undercutting the industry — by charging cheap price
Getting paid for what you are worth
Anything custom there should be a set limit
Go ahead and jump!
Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself!
Stand behind your product.
Rob Suarez, Esq. | Intellectual Property Lawyer | Intellectual Property: Understanding Your Rights And Respecting Those Of Others
Copyright - Any tangible expression of your creativity
Enforce your intellectual property rights
To register a trademark {attorney fee $975 + federal government fee} — Takes about 3 months {leg work} — 6-9 months processing time in U.S.
A trademark is a trademark where you effect commerce.
Photography contract - “As photos made at this event are assigned to Petite Seats.”
TSB + Jenn {HWTM} + Astrid {Paper Playground} | Putting Your Best You Forward: Branding Tips + Tricks To Set You Apart
Post what you want to attract
Branding is not just a logo — It’s how your customers see you. {Create an avatar — Know your client}
“A brand is simply TRUST!” - Steve Jobs
Use Instagram {IG} as a gallery portfolio
HWTM mentioned most of her business is generated via Pinterest
“Bespoke”
Make sure to have a complete IG bio. — Have a “tagline”.
Showcase your work properly — These images are all you have left after a function. Post 4-5 + 15 second feature
Not engaging customers on DM not good.
Don’t put your whole business into IG — You don’t own the content.
Use new platforms like PARTY SLATE
Branding your outfit while setting up an event
Use IG Stories to show the behind the scenes.
Edgar of Revelry Event Designers + Sonia of Sonia Sharwa Events | Selling the Invisible: How to Present + Sell Creative Ideas
In a conceptual design presentation include the following: {1} Design Sheets, {2} Floor plans/CAD Drawings, {3} Event Images — All should be done in Keynotes or Power Point
Protect your inventory
Edgar’s Six Business Rules
Invest in your staff with training, loyalty, and opportunities.
Reinvest your profits whenever possible.
When buying product look for versatility, quality, and longevity.
Invest in property— buy the building you are working in as soon as possible.
Don’t be afraid to say NO to opportunities that are costly.
Don’t let your clients budget determine the quality of your product.
One Inspired Party | Earth + Sugar | Nathalie Cadet-James | Jackie Ohh Events | Do The Math: Let’s Talk Money And What Your Time Is Worth!
You have to structure yourself to make money.
Example 1: Event Planning/Styling
$850 Day Off
$2250 Styling + 10% of total decor budget {greater than or equal to $22.5k}
$3000 Full Planning + Styling or 15% of final budget {greater than or equal to $20k}
$875 Design + Style Dessert Table
Example 2: Wedding Planning 15-20% of final budget
Be Bold! Price What You Are Worth
I provide an “Intangible Luxury Service”. I charge a flat rate, keeping in mind everything is custom. {Jackie Ohh}
Don’t undercut the market, it’s unfair.
Collect money like so:
Initial 50% when contract is signed
25%
Final 25% — 30 Days before event
Intangible Luxury {Earth + Sugar}
Make relationships with planners — grassroots
Itemized list of products is sent {Fee = For Time + Design}
Case Studies are on website
Budget
Items + Service
Estimate of Cost
Team
Studio Manager
Event Designer
Biller
Read the book, The Business Of Being Creative by Sean Lowe
Manolo Doreste, Photographer | Enhancing The Client Experience
Manolo does only 25 wedding per year
We are in the industry of creating experiences—Event professionals who a luxury experience
PRE — Before Consult
PRESENT — Creating Connections
POST — Standing out + Following up
PRE {Supermarket vs. Saks}
Phone, Email, Verbiage, Collateral {Language}
Phone {2-3 Rings} | Undivided Attention | Voicemail {call back}
Greeting {Speed, Pitch, + Tone} - Short, Sweet + Informative
Acknowledge | Actively listen + take notes
Closing | My Pleasure
My sample voicemail: “Thank you for contacting PS, it is our pleasure to provide …”
PRESENT
Education
Reply times/methods
72 Hour/Hold
Your process/time invested
Operating Times
Let them know your process. Explain via email on website.
Ask for what’s needed
Typeform
Custom Draft Emails
PDF Samples
Guilty Pleasures
Lawyer Up
Research your prospective clients like you are going to trial {Venue, Referral + Social Media}
Send Reminder
We all need them {email + courtesy calls + text via email + link for direction/parking}
Studio Space — Wow them at the Door!
Make them feel at home | Welcome by name | Offer drinks + Snacks {Ask: What are you drinking?} | Small talk | Leave alone
Lounging - Smell + Sight + Sound + Touch {Give wifi password}
Initial Consultation — Lead meeting
Interview client - not rushed
Explain your meeting agenda {wedding/pros/ideas/collections}
Listen, ask, and take notes
Lead the conversation
State this is a BIG investment.
Go over how to reserve services
Ask “How Does That Sound?”
Excuse Yourself
Explain how to move forward— Typeform + Contract Details
Questions to ask clients to learn more about them:
Tell me your child’s favorite pass time? Favorite snack?
Favorite TV Show?
Where can I find you on the weekend?
Ask about child? | Collect party details | inquire about preferences | review services/pricing
Start with highest price first
Change the wording from “package” to “collection”
POST
Make it genuine — Card or Email + Ask referral source
Change the wording from “Contract” to “Letter of Engagement”
Ask how would you like us to send it to you — fax, email, etc.
Gifting — Keep on brand and make it personal!
Give a candle
Box with wine + sealed with a hug
Gourmet snacks
Photo @ event with frame
Tiara
Use Typeform {Custom Form} + Calendly {Appointments}
Julie Roth-Novak | Party Slate | Your Guide to Event Pro SEO: 5 Easy Ways to Earn Traffic + Leads
95% of people start their search on Google
Five Best SEO Practices
1.Target local keywords {descriptive terms}
2. Write event descriptions {200+ words, unique copy}
3. Marking Gold - tag + describe each photo
Tag with keywords — photos
Optimize for mobile {Most people use mobile 1st!}
4. Get authoritative link-backs {Platforms + directories}
No FLASH!
Party Slate — A marketing platform
100,000 unique visits per month
Each profile - 12 full events + >20 photos
Can add video
PS algorithm rewards crediting, saving, recent uploads
Successful Mompreneuring: Real Moms + Their Secrets to Running Creative Businesses
I did not take notes during this session because this is something I live and breath everyday! Just listening to how other mompreneurs juggle was encouraging, but no trade secrets were shared.
Plan dates nights for both your hubbie + one with each of your children
TSB + Jackie Ohh… + Design, Plan, Play | The Ugly Truth About Event Planning: Managing, Vendors, Clients + Growth
Jackie Ohh does 12-16 events per year
Having a substantial network is vital — aid your business
Take the time in the beginning to sit + learn — shadow a vendor you admire — equal exchange free labor for knowledge
“If you stay ready, you don’t ever have to be ready.” TSB
Align yourself with people who can aid your growth
HWTM + Party Slate + Paper Playground | Trend Talk
During this workshop the panel shared their thoughts on the trends in kids’ parties. The one issue I had with their list was children’s chairs where not included on the list. Go figure! Anywho here is their list:
Balloons Galore {@paulfuentes_design @anythingbutgrayevents @thetreasureroom}
Balloon Garlands + Ceiling Decor
@brookylnballooncompany ~$500 per balloon {said to last 4 months}
Color Trends {@hallmarkcreative @illuminationeventsstudio @acharmingfete @ohhappyday @thesweetestoccasion }
Ombre Pastels
Brights on white
Food + Drinks {@littlesootievents @brit+co}
Colorful + Fun Foods
Dressed Up Kids Lunches
Mocktails for Kids {@theflavorbender @bhc @thesuburbansoapbox @utryit}
Elements of Design + Decor {@sweettoothblog @desigua @personalizedpaperie @ilanaashleyevents @studiodiy @homesthetics @thecreativeheartstudio @balloonmosaics }
Fringe Installations
Disguise
Surprise Factor
Jumbo Letters
Fun-Filled Acrylics
Activities With A Twist
Playful DIY Games
Custom Coloring Activities {personalized coloring book}
Social Influence
Look for organization that can use balloons/flowers after the event
Would I attend next year?
I’ve decided not to attend next year. Here are my reasons:
—No measurable ROI for Petite Seats. I’m such an introvert that being at a summit is more about me gain knowledge from the presenters and less about networking. Many of the attendants were Florida based event planners, so making a connection wasn’t high on my list. Most of the presentations I attended relayed business journeys, but no real meat, no tangible business practices I felt were transferable.
—The ambience and decor were out of this world amazing! However, the meals provided sucked. I had to supplement each meal and that blew my budget set for the trip. The meals looked nice but were not filling, or they were just not foods I eat. Too much sugar. Several of the meal stations were created to illustrate what would be appropriate for a children’s event, but honey I wanted adult foods.
—Overall, I felt like I could have invested 25% of what I spent on PodCasts and gained more knowledge. 🤷🏾♀️The summit was ripe for photo ops though!
Rainbow Party
in DIY, Boys Party, Petite Events
A client sent over this image from a Styled Shoot produced by Oh Happy Day as inspiration for her sons’ celebration. She requested rainbow colored 🌈 ribbons for our white chiavaris.
inspiration image
After a visit to Walmart’s craft section we got right to work with adhering the ribbon to 30 chairs.
The final product was a rainbow inspired kiddie party complete with a custom kraft paper table cover.
Crowdfunding Efforts
Thank you to my supports who contributed $350 to Petite Seats' first crowdfunding campaign.
Little Celebrations Rentals
One7Events
Neffi Walker
Orlett Torrence
Krissy Chic Boutique + Events
Jennifer Rodriguez
Catherine Manino
I truly appreciate your support and plan to use the funds to secure more premium advertisement space. I decided to use the INDIEGOGO platform for my campaign, mainly because of the ease of use and receiving the donated funds. Below are the details of my campaign:
"Crowdfunding will help in purchasing a delivery truck and allow me to service more clients. Below is a breakdown of the funding amount:
- $10,000 Delivery Truck
- $6000 Inventory {New Petite Seats}
- $4000 Advertising Campaign {Photo Shoot + Website Adverts + Local Magazines}
- $1000 Driver Training + Insurance + License
- $2000 Custom Vehicle Wrap
- $2000 PR Campaign"
Classic Minnie
Our favorite kid's party planner, the Party Muse, produced this classic Minnie Mouse party using our mini ghost chairs.
LuLu Cake Boutique created this striped, polka dot confectionery dream
Khaliah, ever the inventive planner, created a donut wall using an acrylic slab in the shape of Minnie's head complete with a bow. It was bowtastic!
The kids tablescape was infused with polka dot and pops of pink for a classic Minnie look. Minted Feather created the placemats which were scripted to perfection.
Oh Twodles
Photography: Tatiana Teo Photography
Styling + Design: The Party Muse
Place Mats @mintedfeather
Cake @everythinglulu
Florals @barbarasflowers
Mini Ghost Chairs @petiteseats
Custom Illustration by Javere Irie
I knew for my girls' birthday celebration I wanted a logo of sorts to bring all the decor elements together. During one of my five hour searching expeditions on Instagram I came across a super talented artist by the name of Javere Irie. After looking at his custom illustrations I decided it would be super cool to make the girls cartoon mermaids.
The Process
Javere requested images of the girls to create a rough sketch of their faces.
After this he sent me a preliminary sketch of the entire illustration for approval.
Next he added the colors and fine details digitally.
The illustration was used for the invitations, day of stationery, and the four foot backdrop for the dessert table (courtesy of my Brother in Law).
Designed and Created by Chique Events and Designs
This will be hung over a lilac sequin backdrop
Having a unifying element in your event decor is a cool way to "brand" your event.
This event will be the official first event for Petite Konfetti. Stay tuned for pictures and video from the event.
November Special
One more weekend in our November special!
Only one more weekend to take advantage of our November special! We are offering a 35% discount for rentals on the days listed in the image for our November promotion. The discount does not include delivery fee and NJ tax. Please visit our website and complete the form on our "contact us" page to receive a quote. www.petiteseatsnj.com All invoices must be paid within 5 days or they will be cancelled. Once invoice is paid there are no refunds. #kidschair #kidsparty#kidsrentals #njkidsevent #nyckidsevent
Sequins & Pearls Birthday Party Styled by Pretty Posh Events
We had the pleasure of providing Abby of Pretty Posh Events our acrylic mini ghost and chiavari chairs for an over-the-top kids party. Check out the details captured below by Aida Malik Photography.
Source It:
Planning, Design, + Florals – Pretty Posh Events
Photography – Aida Malik Photography
Cakes – Whimsical Baker
Stationery – Bushel & Peck Paper
Acrylic Toppers – Oda Creative
Children Tables + Chairs – Petite Seats
October Special
We are having a promotion for all October rentals!! Here are the deets:
☆ All #PetiteSeats on sale as follows:
-White Chiavaris $3.00 to rent
-Pink/Clear/Gold Chiavaris $5.00 to rent
☆Must book and pay invoice by 9/30/15
☆ALL PAYMENTS ARE NONE REFUNDABLE, NO EXCEPTIONS.
☆Delivery or pickup options are available. ☆ ☆For more information email us at info @petiteseatsnj.com
Maximus is One
Cathy of Glam and Envious Affairs was kind enough to send us pictures of the subtly sophisticated first birthday she designed and planned last weekend. The beautifully detailed event was named, "Maximum's 1st Birthday" and it was an over-the-top circus theme. Cathy used our gold chiavari's for the center staged kids table. Check out the images below:
Check out our gold chiavari chairs!
Laury of There Should Always Be Cake create several masterpieces for this event. I hijacked some of her IG pictures for a close up of the treats.To learn more about the woman behind the amazing confectionery designs check out our interview with Laury here.
Source It:
Cookies: Flourish Cakes
Cakes and Other Sweet Treats: There Should Always Be Cake
All In One Entertainment, Inc.
Gold Kids Chiavari Chairs: Petite Seats
Production Assistant: Sweet Ambitions Events
Venue: District 12 NYC
Preview Party
Please join us as we celebrate the launch of Petite Seats. Invite your friends to come and mingle and view New Jersey's newest rental company.
The Mamas Expo
We are anxiously waiting for Sunday, May 4. Why you ask? Because we will be exhibiting in the 2014 Mamas Expo in Corona, Queens. This is will our first platform to share our Petite Seats will the NYC Metro area. We are excited to have parents see our chairs in person and chat about our visions for the company. If you're able please check us out. We will be staging a nautical themed birthday celebration and our available chair accessories (e.g. chair caps and sashes).
Here is a blurb about this one-of-a-kind show:
Part baby expo, part county fair, and part something entirely different, the Mamas Expo is a one day family friendly gathering that celebrates parenting culture in New York City and beyond. It brings together local resources, businesses, brands, educators, caretakers, parents, grandparents, performers, artists, and of course kids to receive an exclusive look at all of the new resources available and of course, have fun!
The Mamas Expo is open to all parents, expectant moms, and children, from pregnancy to age 6. Attendees have unprecedented, insider access to some of the best local services, specialists and products currently available for families in Queens and throughout New York City. From finding new local classes and schools, to the best innovative products and retail stores, parents receive an exclusive look at all of the new resources available to make sure they are in-the-know! It’s simply the best kids expo in Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, and NYC! Source
For tickets click here. Families will enjoy:
- Loads of free giveaways from some of the coolest kids and baby brands.
- Prenatal resources, demonstrations, birthing education and access to local pregnancy related services.
- Designated play areas and free sample classes throughout the day.
- Shopping and discounts from the hottest new retail companies and local creators.
- The opportunity to speak one-on-one with top family friendly brands and local businesses.
- Samplings of kid friendly food and treats.
- Free on-site entertainment and performances.
- All day access to the New York Hall of Science and the Science Playground.
- And much more...
When: Sunday May 4th 2014 from 10 am – 4 pm
Where: New York Hall of Science - 47-01 111th Street, Corona, NY 11368
Ticket Price: ME14 is free with NYSCI admission or membership. Mamas Expo all access passes and VIP tickets* are available to purchase in advance before May 4, 2014 online at www.themamasexpo.com. Ticket includes all-day access to New York Hall of Science, access to the Mamas Expo and events, access to New York’s largest Science Playground, plus one round of Rocket Park Mini Golf.
Mamas Expo Advance All Access Ticket Price:
$17 Adult (18+)
$13 Child (2-17), Student (w/ID), Senior (62+)/ Under 2 Free
(15% off Adult regular price / 19% off Child Regular Price)
$45 VIP All Access
All Access Tickets will be available for purchase at the door for full price on the day of the event and include general admission for one, access to the Mamas Expo, 1 ticket to Science Playground, and 1 any-time voucher for Mini-Golf (valid for 1 round of Rocket Park Mini-Golf. Expires June 5, 2014)
Petite Seat Launch Party: Phase One
For several days we lamented over an ideal location for an official launch party for the Petite Seats brand. We wanted a location that was easily accessible from NYC and northern New Jersey and had a lofty feel. The venue also had to be trendy and allow for an all day rental. We found it! The Art Factory in Paterson, New Jersey.
The International Gallery
We secured the venue and now are on the hunt for sponsors to assist us with the execution of the event. We envisioned five to six tablescapes, designed and installed, by local event designers highlighting our chairs and their unique designs. If you are interested in creating an over-the-top children's themed tablescape in exchange for complimentary use of Petite Seats please email us at rent@petiteseatsnj.com
Digna Toledo Photography has committed to shoot our Petite Seats launch party . Check out her amazing photos here at her newly created blog.
Official Photographer for Petite Seats Launch Party
