Event Essentials: Balloons Beyond Basics

If you had asked RGI events to incorporate balloons into your next event, we would have likely shut down that idea as quickly as possible, convinced that balloons were cheesy and unsophisticated. Oh, how the narrative has shifted! Balloons have come a long way over the past decade with new sophistication, myriads of styles and shapes, and specialty finishes.

Here are 3 compelling reasons why we’ve embraced balloons and how you can love them too:

1.    Entrancing Entryways: When a client comes to us with a tighter budget, our recommendation is to never try to over-saturate a space with décor: making your budget appear too thin and cheap. Instead, we suggest focusing on one or two key wow moments in a punctuated way. A lush, balloon installation in an entryway is a surefire way to impress your guests and create a lasting first impression while staying cost-effective.

 2.    Vertical Vistas: Balloons can fill every inch of space from floor to ceiling, stretching your investment and creating the illusion that your budget is larger than it is. RGI creates magic as ceilings come alive with cascading ribbons and clusters of balloons, turning heads for guests, and creating an exciting 360-degree immersion all while staying within budget.

3.    Brand Enhancement: Brand and consumer activations are vital to the work we do here at RGI. Balloons offer a unique branding opportunity, effortlessly incorporating logos into event décor. Elevate brand visibility with customized balloons, seamlessly integrating corporate identity into the festivities.

From their versatility in shapes, sizes, and colors to their cost-effective appeal and branding prowess, see for yourself how we have learned to celebrate balloons at RGI. We love how effortlessly balloons create show-stopping moments while maximizing our clients’ budgets.  

Happy International Women's Day!

Happy International Women's Day from RGI events, where we take special pride in being a powerhouse team of women driving success in the event planning and production industry. Today, let's shine a spotlight on the incredible women behind the curtain, making every event a memorable experience.

Women-Owned, Women-Led: The Essence of RGI events

We are not just a business; we are a testament to the strength, vision, and resilience of women in the entrepreneurial world. Rachael Glaws, our Principal + Creative Director, leads the charge with passion and creativity, shaping the future of event planning. Her journey, building this company from the ground up, and traveling from coast to coast, is a living testament to the possibilities when women break barriers and follow their dreams.

The Dynamic Team: Fueled by #girlpower since the start!

Behind the scenes, our team of all-women special event pros bring their unique skills and perspectives to the table, creating a synergy that's unmatched. From event associates to our marketing team, each member of the RGI team contributes to the success of our projects, showcasing the collective strength of women in the industry.

A Toast to Women's Excellence

Let's raise a glass to the women who inspire us, challenge us, and drive us to be better. Whether you've been a part of our journey or are just joining us, thank you for being a part of the RGI events team.

Here's to strong women – may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them. Happy International Women's Day!

Event Recap: American Red Cross Winter Symposium

In the heart of the nation's capital, against the backdrop of winter's crisp embrace, RGI events orchestrated a four-day symposium at the American Red Cross National Headquarters in Washington DC. From important meetings to lavish ceremonies, each day unfolded as a chapter in a captivating story of collaboration, innovation, and celebration.

Day 1:

The symposium commenced with a small yet significant meeting, a precursor to the transformative days ahead. We seamlessly rolled in AV equipment and all necessary materials, transforming the space into a hub of potential and possibility. As the sun dipped below the horizon, participants were whisked away to an offsite dinner, leaving the grounds with a set tone for the days to come.

Day 2:

The symposium shifted gears to the historical Hall of Service, a breathtaking venue that bore witness to history and now set the stage for a new chapter. The room, elegantly arranged in a 'w' shape to accommodate the growing participant numbers, hosted key presentations, speeches, and the annual voting process. RGI events ensured a smooth flow, facilitating every aspect with precision. Throughout the day, participants were treated to morning breakfast snacks and afternoon eats. As evening descended, the Tiffany room, steeped in Civil War-era history, became the backdrop for a cocktail reception. Stained glass windows, half from the north and half from the south, symbolized unity—an emblematic theme that resonated through the entire symposium. The night concluded with a three-course meal, awards honoring dedicated volunteers, and a sense of camaraderie that lingered in the winter air.

Day 3:

Diving deeper into the symposium's agenda, RGI events facilitated separate meetings across two buildings within the headquarters grounds. From the nourishing breakfast spread to mid-afternoon snacks, participants were fueled for a day of collaboration and exchange. Once again, the Tiffany room hosted a cocktail reception, a familiar space now imbued with the echoes of shared experiences.

Day 4:

The symposium reached its end with meetings once again held in the grandeur of the Hall of Service. RGI events coordinated meals, providing breakfast and boxed lunch to sustain participants during critical discussions. We at RGI events are grateful to have partnered with The American Red Cross and are looking forward to more events in tandem!

Event Essentials: The Art of Event Photography

Capture the Moment: The Art of Event Photography 

The art of capturing the essence of an event is a skill that goes beyond just clicking pictures. Choosing the perfect event photographer involves more than just technical expertise; it's about finding someone who can tell a story through their lens, someone who understands the significance of each fleeting moment. At RGI events, we believe in transforming ordinary events into extraordinary memories, and selecting the right photographer is a crucial step in achieving that. Read on for some of the guidelines we use when selecting the perfect photography partner!

Tip #1: Setting a Budget

Photography can have a very broad price range, depending on factors such as past experience, timing onsite, and services that will be provided. Before diving into the research process, set a clear budget for your event photography. This ensures that you narrow down your options to those that align with your financial plan, avoiding any surprises later on.

Tip #2: Research Photographers Matching Your Style

Every photographer has their own unique style of shooting. Make sure to look at photography samples and take notes on a mood board of images that speak to you- this will help define your photography style preferences- light and airy or dark and moody, action shots or posed portraits. Have this board handy to send to potential photographers. This step ensures that the photographer you choose resonates with your brands style.

Tip #3: Ensure Clear Communication

Photographers may have varying levels of expertise, and clear communication is key to ensuring that your expectations are met. Take the time to notate the "must-get" pictures throughout the event by creating a shot list in coordination with your run of show. This is an essential piece that RGI events incorporates into every event execution. It consists of working through the event in chronological order to ensure all key moments are accounted for. Don't be afraid to make the list robust, including any behind the scenes shots and extra collateral shots, like the flat lay of an invitation, to guarantee that every detail is captured seamlessly.

At RGI, we understand the value of well-produced post event photography and videography assets. These help with future marketing endeavors, enhancing brand visibility and even just adding to the overall portfolio. The above considerations form the foundation of our approach to ensure just that. We understand the strategic value of these assets and hope the above tips help ensure each one of our clients has added value of those assets, post event.  Join us on the journey of turning your events into cherished memories through the lens of exceptional photography.

All in the Details: Unwrapping KIMCO’s Holiday Kickoff Scavenger Hunt

As we bid farewell to the festive season and dive into January, RGI events looks back on the holiday kickoff event for KIMCO Realty in Kentland’s Market Square with cheer and gratitude. In our second year working with this client, we were granted two years of hindsight experience to ensure the activations around this event were as impactful as possible. The holiday season is a time for joy, community, and creating cherished memories. At this year's holiday kickoff, the festivities included exciting activities, featuring an enchanting scavenger hunt that brought the Kentland’s Market Square businesses together and spread joy throughout the community. The scavenger hunt was a carefully curated experience that added an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie to the event.

Three golden “K” ornaments were distributed to participating stores and community members were tasked with finding these ornaments within the stores. The cherry on top? A prize was awarded to the winner from the corresponding store. RGI events laid out the details of the activity through winter themed signage and clue announcements throughout the event. The captivating scavenger hunt wasn't just a festive delight; it served as a tool that brought the surrounding businesses into the spotlight. The activity engaged tenants in a more direct way and drove traffic into these stores and common areas. Participants, on their quest for the golden K ornament, not only enjoyed the thrill of the hunt but also had the chance to discover the unique offerings of each store. It was a win-win detailed activity, blending holiday fun with a valuable opportunity for local enterprises to shine.

In the grand scheme of the event, the scavenger hunt seamlessly integrated with the festive atmosphere. Picture this: a bustling market filled with the aroma of freshly made doughnuts from the food truck, the beats of the DJ setting the mood, and laughter echoing as families enjoyed face painting and snapped pictures with Santa. The scavenger hunt wasn't just an activity; it was a key ingredient that heightened the holiday spirit.

The scavenger hunt didn't just entertain; it brought people together. As families and friends collaborated to solve clues, a sense of unity and community spirit permeated the air. The shared laughter, the friendly competition, and the shared accomplishment of completing the scavenger hunt created lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Event Recap: Junior Achievement of Greater Washington Gala

At RGI events, our passion for crafting extraordinary and memorable experiences was brought to light during the recent Hall of Fame event for The Junior Achievement of Greater Washington at The Anthem. We were thrilled to orchestrate an event that brought together 900 attendees, including nationally recognized luminaries, in celebration of The Junior Achievement program at Washington's Business Hall of Fame.

The event celebrated the achievements of individuals who have left an indelible mark on the business landscape of Washington, such as RGI client and 2018 Laureate, José Andrés. This event posed a perfect opportunity to “materialize the message” and RGI ensured that every detail reflected the significance of the occasion.

The sheer scale of the event held at The Anthem - a venue designed to hold many thousands - required meticulous planning and a keen focus on strategic space planning. The creative process consisting of numerous different creative briefs drove towards ensuring that each aspect of the event, from registration to room design to stage design, all embodied the essence of the Washington Business Hall of Fame. Our goal was to create a visual tapestry that not only wowed the attendees but also seamlessly tied into the overarching theme.

The room design was a key element in immersing attendees in the spirit of the event. We curated distinct looks for the laureate tables, giving each a unique identity while maintaining a cohesive theme throughout. The VIP section was meticulously laid out for a formal chic cocktail experience that was all about the details!

The focal point of the evening - The Hall of Fame induction ceremony - was a dynamic and impactful experience that required RGI’s experienced production strategy. Every facet of the show was methodically planned, from the conceptualization of the visual and auditory elements to the execution on stage. The RGI team acted as production stage managers, executive producers, visual directors, and technical directors for the seamless ceremony. With three screens displaying diverse content, sophisticated lighting, and a strict script with specific stage cues, our team navigated the complexity flawlessly. The ceremony, featuring two dozen participants, ended precisely on time, even wrapping up a minute earlier than planned!

With an unwavering commitment to achieving perfection, RGI events looks back on 2023 proudly, and envisions 2024 as a year of milestones, innovation, and awe-inspiring experiences. As the countdown begins, we eagerly await the opportunity to produce more events like Junior Achievement’s, pursuing a year that will push the boundaries of creativity, weave together the perfect blend of technology, design, and entertainment to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact.

Event Recap: L'Oréal USA Human Resources Retreat

At RGI events, our commitment to creating extraordinary and memorable experiences reaches new heights with each event we plan. Long time corporate partner L'Oréal USA has an identical mindset to RGI and every event we do with them is a highlight. We were particularly honored to support the L'Oréal USA corporate offices over the summer as their new human resources chief executive puts her distinct stamp on their national HR efforts.

Newport, Rhode Island

With this retreat setting the tone for company retreats for years to come, it was crucial attendees arrived excited and left feeling inspired. During the planning process, the attendee experience was always front of mind starting, of course, with location, location, location. Set on the water's edge in picturesque New England, we knew Newport, Rhode Island would be a venue that would capture their attention. Pre-planning with the attendee in mind consisted of a hyper personalized communication plan, event branding and identity, personalized attendee registration, websites and infrastructure, white-glove concierge services, seamless travel booking and management, meticulous hotel room block coordination, and the creative and editorial curation of conference materials.

For our clients, it really was all about the JouHRney – the name of this year's conference. The excitement kicked off with a champagne greeting welcoming participants to a conference filled with “Connection”, “Perspective”, and “Momentum”, themes that would guide each day. Team RGI meticulously orchestrated every aspect -- from stage design that highlighted the day’s theme to countless set arrangement changes and lighting and audio cues. There was not a piece to the production team RGI was not intimately involved in.

Continuing the theme of “Connection” into the evening, attendees were treated to a classic New England BBQ to round out the night. Moments before set up was about to begin, it started pouring rain, but if there is one thing we know as event planners, it’s adaptability. We quickly shifted gears and moved the BBQ inside, without compromising the design, feel and most importantly, the much-anticipated cornhole tournament, complete with branded company boards. Attendees enjoyed delicious food and classic Newport treats, danced the night away and engaged in some friendly – yet very competitive – competition!

Day two kicked off with morning yoga on the deck overlooking the water – complementing the day’s theme of “Perspective” perfectly. After, attendees jumped right back into sessions full of speakers and presentations. As the day wrapped, the real party was about to get started. A blue and white cocktail hour followed by an awards ceremony and dance party commenced. From award presentations and lighting cues to a live band, the production level was essential to a flawless evening.  The infectious energy of the party ensured that smiles lingered, creating an environment where people simply didn't want the festivities to end.

Waking up on day 3, the “Momentum” was evident. Attendees were greeted with laughter and gratitude as an improv group led team-building exercises and the leadership team wrapped up with closing remarks. As the curtains draw to a close on the extraordinary JouHRney that was L'Oréal's HR Retreat in Newport, Rhode Island, we reflect on the artistry and precision that defines RGI Events. Crafting not just events but immersive experiences, our team has once again proven that we are not just an event production firm; we are masters in creating moments that leave a lasting impact on our clients.

Event Recap: National Hospice Foundation Gala

Nonprofit client’s are the heart of RGI events. They make up 60%+ of our client base. Working events that are dedicated to benefitting the greater good are so deeply meaningful for each and every one of our team - and today are looking back on a particularly meaningful gala we coordinated for the National Hospice Foundation. Over the past 15 years RGI events has produced events for nonprofits resulting in over 1 billion dollars in fundraising. The impact of the stages we build is truly immeasurable – and that is a great honor.

We had the honor of assisting the National Hospice Foundation in organizing a gala that celebrated the service workers in hospice care. The night included cocktails, dinner, dancing, entertainment, and an auction to raise funds to ensure the best care possible for their patients and their patients families. RGI had the privilege to creating unique programmatic aspects of the evening that also spotlighted their military veterans.

We were charged to provide a complete full-scale planning experience for the non-profit organization — from venue selections and design, to vendors and logistics for auction solicitation and management. The evening featured a traditional honorary program with a salute to service, color guard, fundraising, donation pledges, and inspiring stories. 

The gala was held at The Marriott Wardman Park and had a little over five hundred guests in attendance.  While the VIP reception began at 5:30 pm in the balconies, the night didn’t officially begin until 6:30 pm when doors opened for cocktails, a live performance by PopCulture Strings, and a silent auction.

The gala was successful in raising over $40,000 on-site from these auctions and donations combined. It’s thoroughly rewarding to enable people to get together and see them develop community, celebrating all that their cohort does for others. This event is one of many reasons why we love doing what we do so passionately!

A Note from RG: Conference Season

Summer is sadly winding to a close far faster than I would like to believe! – But, as we transition out of my favorite season, I find myself as always tingling with anticipation as we look forward to one of the busiest times of the year here at RGI events! The fall season is heavy on community programming, experiential endeavors for our corporate clients, and of course, conferences. 

The work we do to bring to life conference events for our clients is some of the most rewarding work we do. Not only that, but it truly lets us flex our creative muscles. Stage and set design is among my favorite aspects of RGI‘s capabilities, and the process of ideating and bringing to life environments for our valued clients to share their content is as complex as it is enjoyable.

The challenge of innovating in a saturated event category is immense – but immense challenges and finding strategic solutions is key to what we do! 

Whether we are rolling up our sleeves with a long-term client to curate an experience that is both impactful and engaging for a constituency who has seen everything – or we are jumping in on a first-time project for a client looking to level up and deepen connections with their audiences.

The process is multi-faceted, nuanced, and anything but boring! It is our firm belief that content delivery, executed to excite, is vital to successfully meeting the ultimate goals of our clients’ initiatives. And that’s what we are all about! As we often say, at RGI, we may not be the ones who will change the world, but we will build a stage for the ones who will.

Event Recap: Frito Lay

RGI Events recently had the pleasure of supporting a multi-day event for a large corporate client, Frito-Lay, celebrating their drivers and their families. The event took place in Baltimore, Maryland, and included a welcome dinner, a rodeo-style daytime event, and an awards dinner!

The welcome dinner was held on the first night of the event where the drivers and their families enjoyed bonding over a delicious meal followed by a fun evening of entertainment. This night also included speeches from company’s management, who thanked the drivers for their hard work and dedication.

On the second day, Frito Lay threw a rodeo-style day of family fun held at the Baltimore Ravens' team lot! There was lots of food and games for the kids, and Chester Cheetah even made a visit!

The final night of the event was an awards dinner where many drivers were recognized for their service and achievements over the last year. The drivers were presented with awards for safety, customer service, and productivity, along with some more fun “gag” awards.

The event was a huge success, and everyone had a great time! RGI loves when we get to support corporations like this one who so obviously value their employees! We look forward to working with them again in the future!

Event Recap: Kentlands Summer Programming

One of RGI's long-term client relationships is with KIMCO Reality, a nationwide real estate and development company for whom we program dozens of events in multiple locations each year.

Each summer, we assist KIMCO in programming a series of family-friendly festivals and artistic events at Kentlands Market Square, a KIMCO Reality development in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

The season kicked off with the Kentland’s Arts Festival, showcasing the work of local artists and artisans – and continued with themed music nights featuring food and beverage as well as fantastic local acts on Friday’s through the summer, additional programming included Outdoor Drive-In Movie evenings, all with prizes furnished by the Kentlands Market Square businesses.

RGI is committed to creating vibrant and engaging events that bring people together, which is why we love this partnership with KIMCO Reality and the programming it brings this summer to Kentlands Market Square. After a fun-filled season, we can’t wait to execute our year end programming for KIMCO’s Kentlands Market Square and we’re very much looking forward to bringing you behind the scenes on their Fall Festival and Holiday programming to close out 2023!

All in the Details: Catering

Choosing the food for an event might seem like a simple task, but there are many more factors to it than meet the eye. The catering choices you make impact more than just satisfying your guests’ hunger—when intentionally selected, they can elevate the entire atmosphere of an event. After all, food is a major part of any event, and it can have a big impact on the overall experience of the attendees.

There are three key factors to consider when planning an event menu: seasonality, regionality, and balance.

Seasonality

Seasonal ingredients are always going to be the freshest and tastiest, which is why they are a must-have for any event menu. When ingredients are in season, they are at their peak flavor and nutrition, which means that your guests will be getting the best possible taste and experience.

Additionally, using seasonal ingredients can help to create a cohesive and comfortable atmosphere for your event. When the food reflects the time of year, it can help to create a higher level of cohesion between your different menu items.

Regionality

Another important factor to consider when planning an event menu is regionality. Using ingredients and flavors that are native to the area where your event is being held can help to create a sense of place and authenticity. This can be a great way to connect your guests with the local culture and history.

For example, if you are planning an event in California, you might want to use ingredients like avocados, grapes, and almonds. These ingredients are all native to California and they can help to create a truly California-inspired menu, along with supporting local farmers and economies. 

Balance

Finally, it is important to consider balance when planning an event menu. This means paying attention to portion sizes, flavor pairings, and progression. Making sure that the flavors of each course complement each other and combine well visually can really elevate a plate. 

You will also want to consider the progression of the meal. You want to start with lighter dishes and gradually move to heavier ones. You want to make sure that your guests don’t get too full too quickly if you have other dishes being served later, and of course you never want anyone leaving an event hungry.

With these tips, you can create an event menu that is both delicious and memorable! Your guests will appreciate the fresh, seasonal ingredients, the local flavors, and the overall balance of the meal.

Here are some additional tips for planning an event menu:

• Work with a caterer who has experience in creating seasonal and regional menus.

• Get input from your guests on their dietary restrictions and preferences.

• Offer a variety of dishes to appeal to a wide range of tastes.

• Make sure the menu is visually appealing as well as delicious.

• Don't forget the drinks! Offer a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to complement the food.

With a partner like RGI events and some creativity, you can undoubtedly create a catering menu that is sure to impress your guests!

Event Recap: All Children Reading

RGI events recently coordinated a virtual Ed Tech Expos for All Children Reading, an initiative dedicated to creating wider access to reading for children with disabilities. The conference was held in three parts, with two virtual events and one in-person event, for stakeholders in Europe, Africa, and Asia Pacific.

The four-hour webinar covered a variety of topics related to All Children Reading's mission, including their work on developing accessible reading materials, their partnerships with organizations around the world, and their research into the impact of their work. Their main focus was showcasing solutions to advance child literacy.

One of the key challenges in planning the event was ensuring that it was accessible to all participants, regardless of their location or disability, just like the organization’s overall mission. To this end, RGI worked with All Children Reading to choose a virtual platform that offered a variety of accessibility features, including closed captioning, sign language interpretation, and the ability to translate the content into multiple languages.

Another challenge was scheduling the event in a way that would work for participants in these regions with the team organizing it is located in the US. This meant that RGI Events staff worked late into the night their time to host the events in local daytime for the participants.

Despite the logistical challenges, the All Children Reading virtual conference was a success. People from around the world registered for the event, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Participants praised the content of the sessions and the accessibility features of the platform.

The All Children Reading virtual conference is a prime example of how technology can be used to break down barriers and create opportunities for people with disabilities, and RGI was more prepared than ever to aid this effort post-Covid-19, as it expanded our understanding of the need for virtual events and our reach globally. RGI events is proud to have played a role in making this event a success, and we look forward to continuing to work with All Children Reading to make reading accessible to all children.

Event Essentials: Virtual Events

Many people think that because the pandemic is over, so are virtual events, but that couldn’t be further from the truth! Much to the contrary, the pandemic knocked down a door RGI had long tried to pry open and now at our client’s feet is a whole new array of possibilities for connecting with their audiences – wherever they may be! Here at RGI, we have been in the virtual events space for over a decade (since Skype was the only option!) – it made us especially primed to pivot then, and deeply experienced to expand upon it now!

As with any event – a virtual program takes preparation and attention to detail. Here’s what we focus on first, so grab a pen!  

Delivery

The first thing you must decide while planning a virtual event is how to deliver the content, which is largely based on your budget. There is an enormous range of different platforms to choose from, from something as simple as Zoom, to a platform slightly more dynamic like Cvent, to fully immersive 3D worlds. We have over 1,000 hours experience producing across all of these platforms, so we are fully equipped to help clients weigh these pros and cons. The decision often comes down to the experience and connectivity you want for your audience, so do your homework.

Communication

Effective and clear communication with attendees contributes immensely to the success of any event and is even more important for virtual events. There is always a lot of instruction necessary, and you want to make sure you’re laying the groundwork needed as far in advance as possible to fully inform attendees. Some topics that require this advance communication are how to get technical assistance, what materials to be prepared with on the day of, and what pre-registration needs to take place.

Overall Cohesion in Branding the Attendee Experience

A major goal of all events is to create connection through shared experience, but how do we do that when we aren’t physically together? The identity you create for your event can do a lot of the legwork for helping people connect to each other and the event mission as a whole. Some areas where a cohesive branding strategy can be deployed are: the registration site, invitations, virtual communications, event platform, swag, speaker presentation, and matching customized digital backgrounds. Anything to further tie attendees together and create a real entity and experience they can identify with will amplify your event’s success. 

The right support is integral to success, so be sure to ensure that you have an experienced AV team, especially when working with multiple speakers and dynamic content like pre-recorded videos, live participants, and translators.

And most importantly of all of course….the best way to ensure all of these bases are covered is to enlist a deeply experienced production company such as RGI to bring it all to life! We’ll see you online!

Event Recap: Fourth of July

One of our favorite projects is a 10 year contract, won in 2019 to provide event support services to the National Park Service in Washington, DC and the DC metro region.Through this contract, we are honored to be involved in planning and executing important events such as the Fourth of July Celebration, the Inauguration, and the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival - these iconic events are obviously always so exciting for us!

 The Fourth of July Celebration brings hundreds of thousands of visitors to DC each summer to witness the massive fireworks display and enjoy the celebratory, patriotic atmosphere. Earlier in the day, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, the National Independence Day Parade, the Sylvan Theater Family Activity Area, and the star-studded Capitol Fourth Concert energized crowds and set the scene for the fireworks display. 

 To cater to the hundreds of thousands of attendees at the Fourth of July Celebration each year, intricate planning is key – especially when it comes to food and beverages. This year, the celebration featured 26 diverse food trucks located all around the DMV’s national parks serving delicious options. The area surrounding the Washington Monument is of course the most central for the celebration, requiring constant monitoring to ensure success.

Though Independence Day celebrations have occurred all around the nation since 1776, those on the National Mall have reached new heights since the National Parks Service began hosting over half a century ago, and RGI is so grateful to play a part in this historic event.

A Note From RG: Summer Forever

Summer is without a doubt my favorite season of the year. Even in the stifling heat and humidity I find inspiration. I’m enchanted by the colors of summer sunsets and the verdant flower backdrops of these months.

After a hectic spring season, we really take advantage of the opportunity to get needed prep work in place for the fall months. While we are not on-site executing quite as much as we are in other times of the year, we are still abuzz with activity behind the scenes.

Summer is also a welcome opportunity for us to exercise creatively, to try new things and test concepts.

I, myself, head up north with my family to work from my 250 year old farmhouse on 50 acres at the foot of the White Mountains. It’s my favorite place to road test design elements I’ve been dreaming about, as well as reignite my passion for this work through the various gatherings I host at Hummingbird Hill. 

The tiny village where my great great grandmother first laid down roots at a summer retreat over 100 years ago is flooded by family from all over the country during these few precious weeks, and I revel in any opportunity to step up to host this lovable crew. Two of my three children also have birthdays during this time, so these opportunities are not in short supply.

I hope you are take the time this summer to recharge yourselves creatively through whatever outlets ignite that spark for you. And I hope you stay tuned here on the blog and on social media to catch a few glimpses of us doing just that.

Event Recap: American Red Cross

June is one of our busiest months of the year, supporting a diverse array of events coast-to-coast. One of our very favorites was a content-focused function right in our own backyard!

 We were honored to once again support the American Red Cross to execute one of their very most important strategic meetings. Along with vital information exchange and planning sessions spanning four days, the convening consists of one offsite dinner, one onsite reception in the historic function space at Red Cross HQ, and one formal cocktail hour and reception offsite. Factor in shuttles to move these discerning attendees all over town, and we had our work cut out for us! But after all – it’s what we love!

One of our favorite aspects of this year’s event was the broad latitude given to us by our client to scout the perfect space for the formal final dinner. We wanted a venue with history, not hard to find in Washington, DC! But not just an historical venue – we wanted one that had a strong point of view that could tie in with the mission of the organization. Ideally, a venue with as storied a history as their beautiful headquarters, where the majority of the meeting is held, just off Constitution Avenue in the shadow of the Washington monument. We found that venue is railway hub, Union Station. Many people don’t know that in addition to being the primary Amtrak hub in Washington, DC, Union Station has an illustrious history as an important hub of commerce in the city. When Union Station opened, it carried workers from the American Red Cross on some of its first train departures to support a now more interconnected country thanks to the railway. It also has beautiful historic venue spaces still in use today, and we love taking advantage of any opportunity to work inside these hallowed halls.

 As always, the event as a whole was a smash, but this finale dinner was quite the highlight! We consider it an extreme honor to work alongside the American Red Cross, and we stood in awe of their change-making work around the world. It’s humbling that we are able to have a part in it! See you at the next one!

Event Essentials: The Etagere

When it comes to event design, the possibilities are endless. Every detail, from the decor to the layout, contributes to creating a memorable experience for attendees. At RGI, we are always exploring unconventional yet visually striking elements to add a unique touch to our designs. One such element that has gained significant popularity in our book is the humble bookshelf — or as we like to call them the etagere! Read on for more on just how we elevate these simple elements into event staples.

On Display

Etageres offer a unique opportunity to showcase various decorative elements. Instead of using traditional tables or pedestals, consider arranging floral arrangements, products or thematic props on the shelves – even using them as a back bar! This sort of display adds a three-dimensional aspect to your event design, captivating the attention of guests and encouraging them to explore the space. By strategically placing these elements, you can guide the flow of foot traffic and create focal points throughout the venue.

Transformative Backdrops

One of the most exciting aspects of utilizing etageres in event design is their ability to transform any space into a new and captivating environment. With the right lighting, props, and accessories, these elevated shelves can transport attendees to different eras or create immersive settings – they also can act as a killer photo backdrop! By adding thematic decorations and manipulating the shelving arrangement, you can create unique backdrops that add depth, texture, and visual interest to the overall design and space.

Functional Spaces

Etageres can also be transformed into functional spaces within your event. Consider using them as registration desks, information kiosks, or interactive stations. Incorporate shelves with hidden compartments or cubbies that can house promotional materials, brochures, or even refreshments. By integrating functionality with design, you maximize the use of space while providing practical, yet visually interesting solutions for attendees.

Etageres are no longer limited to holding books in a library; they have become a powerful tool for event designers to unleash their creativity. By incorporating these unassuming yet impactful elements, you can create a memorable experience that will leave a lasting impression on your attendees.

Event Recap: Pride in Dermatology

As Pride month comes to an end we take a look back on one of our favorite events we are beyond proud to be a part of every year! From high-level production with a star-studded lineup to show-stopping design and killer swag, this year's third annual La Roche-Posay Pride in Dermatology was definitely one for the books! With a strategic approach and a focus on creating Instagram-worthy moments, the event left attendees inspired and enthusiastic.

RGI left no stone unturned when it came to crafting visually stunning and memorable experiences. To welcome attendees, a vibrant rainbow "red carpet" was rolled out, symbolizing the LGBTQ+ pride flag. This colorful pathway invited guests into the venue, setting the tone for the event's festive atmosphere. The intention was to create a visually appealing entrance that attendees would capture and share on their social media accounts, spreading the message of inclusivity to their followers. To enhance the tunnel-like structure, RGI added a tunnel of rainbow draping with pride-focused neon signs hung along the pathway.

Additional post-worthy moments were scattered throughout the venue with a step-and-repeat in the downstairs basement complete with a photo booth and props! Upstairs was a second step-and-repeat where guest could snap their own photos while a mobile photographer roamed around snapping candid moments and sending them directly to attendees' phones via email and/or text message.

To further elevate the event's ambiance global superstar Vanessa Williams and comedian Judy Gold, both champions for the LGBTQ+ community were enlisted. Their dynamic and captivating performances mesmerized the audience, fostering an atmosphere of celebration and unity. Attendees were captivated by their talent, and their social media feeds were flooded with videos and images capturing these unforgettable moments.

The logistics behind a production with this type of star power is no small feat. From facilitating travel and accommodations to creating stage graphics, and programs and developing a flawless run of show, we definitely had our hands full, but lucky for us our fearless leader Rachael got her start in the music/talent industry so it was second nature to the RGI team.

La Roche-Posay's commitment to the LGBTQ+ community extended beyond the event itself. The brand donated an impressive $150,000 to three exceptional organizations supporting LGBTQ+ rights and empowerment. This gesture not only highlighted the brand's dedication to making a meaningful impact but also inspired attendees to contribute to these organizations and raise awareness for the community's ongoing challenges.

This event serves as a shining example for other companies to follow, showcasing the immense power of leveraging platforms to support marginalized communities and create a more inclusive world.

Event Essentials: Organization is Key

Planning an event can be overwhelming, that’s why we recommend hiring a professional! The secret to throwing a killer soiree that's sure to impress your guest is organization! Read on for a few essential tips to keep you to track, on task and on budget while planning your next gathering!

Set Goals

First and foremost, define your goals! Setting clear and achievable goals helps guide you throughout the planning process. Write down three tangible items you're looking to accomplish, whether it's creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests, raising a specific amount of money, or gaining media recognition to raise awareness, whatever it is, being clear on your vision will help you stay focused.

Stay on Time

Time is always of the essence, and when planning an event, it's crucial to stay on time! Create a timeline with specific deadlines for every task, large or small. This will help you track your progress and avoid feeling overwhelmed. It will also help you manage your budget effectively.

Stick to the Budget

One of the very first steps to planning your event is deciding on a comfortable all-in budget. When predicting your costs, keep in mind that the venue, catering, and audio-visual expenses will likely be the most significant, so prioritize those first. Once you have a clear idea of how much you're willing to spend, stick to it and plan accordingly. Often times there are ways to get the expensive look but for less! If it doesn't fit within your budget, don't get discouraged, just get creative!

At the end of the day, organization is key! Stick to these tips to keep yourself on track and ahead of the game!