Case Study: An anniversary you would never forget…

Background:
At the end of October 2010, Stephanie Denton and Sam Allcock decided to change their 2011 summer wedding, to a New Years Eve wedding at the Palace Hotel in Manchester. With only the venue provisionally booked, they approached Passion 4 Events to pull everything together in less than eight weeks. A challenge we happily embraced.

Roles & Responsibilities:
After an initial consultation to identify the couple’s dreams for the day, Passion 4 Events produced a proposal detailing various options and themes.

We provided:

  • Contract Negotiation & Venue visits
  • Scale floor plans
  • Venue Dressing
  • All floristry & table centres
  • Linen Hire
  • Handmade wedding stationary – including table numbers and seating plan
  • Favours
  • Stage, Lighting & Sound equipment
  • Entertainment Booking
  • On-the-day Wedding Coordination

Conclusion:
All guests arrived at 2pm on New Years Eve and were entertained until 2am the following morning, with a very happy bridal party.

Client Comments:
“Absolutely, perfectly, amazing!!”

Stephanie Denton – Bride

Case Study: Moving up in the world…

Background:
At the beginning to October we were approached by PC Carpets and beds to arrange a grand opening event with a difference, the challenge being it was in just under 4-weeks!

The ground floor of the furniture store, which occupied a beautiful old bank on the corner of Lune Street in Preston, had been open for just over a year, during which time they had been developing the top two floors.

Roles & Responsibilities:
The challenge was to make the general public aware that not only did the store now have three floors, but they were also much more than just a flooring shop! After an initial meeting, and establishing the client’s brief, Passion 4 Events produced a detailed proposal document, suggesting many ideas to attract potential customers to the shop, and also entertain them whilst inside.

We provided:

  • A Stilt Walker with a large sign positioned directly outside the store to attract attention
  • A two-piece duo complete with a PA system to attract both potential customers & entertain guests when inside the store.
  • A magician providing both close-up magic and balloon animals for the children.
  • Canapés, wine and soft drinks
  • Signage
  • On-site Event Management

Conclusion:
The event was a huge success, not only drawing attention to the store on the day of the event, but also heightening the profile of the brand and the services the company can supply.

Client Comments:
Thanks Mark, we all really enjoyed the day and are really grateful you were there to make sure it all went to plan. I’m sure we will do business again, and I will recommend you to friends and associates.

Case Study: Service with a smile…

Background:
Sheikh Amari approached Passion 4 Events to organise an open day at his premises in Preston. The aim of the event was to launch their service centre, “Amari Service” to new and existing clients. Amari Lifestyle Ltd consists of Amari Supercars, Amari Service, and D1 Ultimate Driving holidays.

Roles & Responsibilities:
After an initial meeting, and establishing the client’s brief, Passion 4 Events produced a detailed proposal document, suggesting many ideas to keep all guests entertained and feeling involved in the event.

We provided:

  • Sega Rally Arcade Machine Hire
  • On-site catering – a range of hot and cold canapés throughout the day
  • Sale-or-return drinks facility
  • On site Event Management

Conclusion:
A successful day, with the awareness of the Amari brand and all its companies heightened, vehicles and Supercar driving holidays sold, and Supercar services booked in.  

Client Comments:
“The event went very well, everyone was extremely happy, the food and drink was excellent, a very smoothly run event. We will definitely be using Passion 4 Events again in the future.”

Daniel Eden – D1 Ultimate Driving Holidays

Case Study: Home is where the heart is…

Background:
A private client who was looking to host a garden party in the grounds of his newly built house approached Passion 4 Events. The party was to celebrate the completion of the house and let friends and contractors see the finished result of the two-year project.

Roles & Responsibilities:
Passion 4 Events undertook a full site survey, and once we had established the client’s needs, produced a detailed proposal document before any work commenced.

We provided:

  • Security & Event Hosts
  • Scale drawings
  • 56ft x 36ft Marquee
  • Boutique Rattan Furniture & Dance Floor
  • Stage, Lighting & Sound equipment
  • Floristry
  • Luxury Barbeque & Ice Cream Cart
  • Sale-or-return bar facility
  • Portable Toilet Facilities
  • Entertainment booking & Management
  • One-site Event Management

Conclusion:
The event was a great success, with all guests having a highly enjoyable evening.

Client Comments:
“Passion 4 Events organised our housewarming party where 150 guests had a fabulous night. Mark came up with lots of ideas and sound advice.

He organised marquee hire, toilets, drinks, catering, music, lighting, ice cream cart, candles and staff on the night and helped us make the event a roaring success. I would happily use him again and highly recommend his services.”

Private Client

Case Study: A Supercar Showcase with a difference…

Background:

Passion 4 events were approached by LamboGenie Ltd, a Prestige & Supercar hire company, to organise a showcase event at their premises near Preston. The event was to showcase their new vehicles and brand identity, to around 180 current and potential clients.

Roles & Responsibilities:

Passion 4 Events undertook a full site survey and once we had established the client’s needs, produced a detailed proposal document before any work commenced.

We provided:

  • A full merchandising package, producing embroidered Polo Shirts, screen-printed V Necks, customised key rings, and even a celebratory cake.
  • 28ft x 38ft Marquee
  • Boutique Rattan Furniture
  • Interior and exterior lighting, PA system and staging.
  • Entertainment Booking
  • A luxury barbeque
  • Sale-or-return bar facility
  • On-site Event Management and Event hosts

Conclusion:

The event was a great success, raising the profile of the company, with lots of positive feedback from both our client and their guests.

Client Comments:

“Passion 4 Events provided a very high class service for my event. Mark worked personally on the project constantly and the results were mind blowing. I would absolutely recommend Mark and Passion 4 Events to organise any events you have from a wedding to a business orientated seminar.”

Russell Treasure – Managing Director, Lambogenie Ltd

Charity Bond Night

Bond Night at Fusion Room, Preston
Friday 6th May 2011 from 7pm – in aid of the Variety Club North West
Dress Code: Black Tie

Event Overview:
This year a member of the team at Fusion Room, Shonagh Horgan has progressed through the Miss Preston heats and into the final. In support of Shonagh and this years Miss Preston charity, the Variety Club North West, the Fusion Room in partnership with Passion 4 Events are closing the restaurant for one night only, to host a fabulous Bond night. Admission will be strictly ticket only, and numbers are limited.

What’s included:

  • Champagne Reception
  • Fabulous 2-course set menu
  • Live entertainment with special guest star
  • Chips for the Blackjack and Roulette tables

Cost:
Tickets for this event are set at £35.00 per person and can be purchased directly through the restaurant or from a Passion 4 Events representative.

On behalf of Shonagh and all the team, we would really appreciate your support, and hope to see you all there on the night.

For more information on Fusion Room please visit: http://www.fusionroom.co.uk/

X FACTOR STAR STEPHEN HUNTER CONFIRMED AS SPECIAL GUEST STAR!!

Entertainment Booking

Entertainment Spotlight

Stephen Hunter – 2010 X-Factor Sensation

Stephen Hunter 42 from Lesmahagow came to the limelight as an X-Factor sensation in 2010, making it all the way to the judges homes final. Stephen now entertains crowds at corporate events, weddings, and official openings throughout the UK.

Recent achievements have included headlining the Party stage at Edinburgh’s 2010 Hogmanay (voted best stage of the night) in front of a 10,000 strong crowd, and securing a part in Jim Dickinson’s film “Rough and Ready”. The film set to hit our screens later this year.

Stephen can be booked through Passion 4 Events to perform either a short 30 minute set, or a full evening of entertainment (2 x 45 minute sets). Stephens set list will be tailored to your event, with his now famous rendition of Disco Inferno included.

If you’re looking for an entertainer guaranteed to impress guests of all ages, and want to include one of the genuinely nicest people you’ll ever meet, then contact us today.

John Lavelle – Guest Speaker & Auctioneer

As the chairman of the Wooden Spoon Childrens Charity for many years, John is no stranger to public speaking. His light hearted Irish humour makes him a popular choice for any gala dinner, asking only for a donation to the Charity for his services.

John is also the perfect auctioneer for your next event, often referred to as the Royal auctioneer due to the number of auctions he has conducted with Anne, Princess Royal for the Princes Trust.

John is the perfect choice for Ladies Lunches, Gala Dinners and Charity Auctions. For more information and to book John Lavelle for your event, please contact us today.

Top Tips when booking entertainment:

RESEARCH - Do you research on the range of entertainers available, and obtain quotations from a number of different acts to ensure you are getting the best price.

EXPERIENCE – Once you’ve complied a short list of entertainers, find a local event were they are entertaining, and experience their performance for yourself. You Tube videos, showreels, and samples can sometimes be very deceiving!

BOOK – Once you’re happy with your entertainers, ensure you book then well in advance to ensure you are not disappointed.

At Passion 4 Events we can provide a complete entertainment package for your next event or wedding. We only use the very best entertainers who we know will deliver to same high standards time after time, and at a competitive price. From guest speakers and singers, to large bands, celebrities, comedians, magicians, silhouette artists, caricaturists, stilt walkers, fire dancers and much more. Please contact us today to arrange your complimentary consultation.

Fantastic Fireworks

Supplier Spotlight – MDL Fireworks Ltd written by Elaine Robb

MDL Fireworks Ltd was formed in March 2005 by the two directors Phil Rustage and Elaine Robb. The business has grown in strength each year and we now have three fulltime staff, and 40 part time staff. We have registered storage facilities in Preston and Stafford, and retails outlets in Preston and Leyland. We are looking to expand our retail this year to Leigh area.

Phil has been involved in the firework industry for over 30 years, and was the Northern Operations Manager for Millennium Pyrotechnics based in Salisbury. In 2005 Millennium was sold and Phil was made redundant. I had been working part time with Millennium Pyrotechnics as a firerer on displays, so it was a natural progression for us to form MDL Fireworks Ltd and continue doing what we both loved. Combined we have 45 years experience.

The one thing we both agreed on from the start, was that every display we do has to be done to the highest standard, using the best quality products that we can source. Whether it be a corporate event, sporting event, wedding or birthday, the same high standard will be maintained. To ensure that we maintain our high standards we have sourced our products carefully for the clarity of colours and range of effects. We now have a partnership with Pro-Fusion pyrotechnics in Stafford who import products for us, that are made to our own specifications in China, resulting in a product line that is quite unique to us.

This year we have invested in a new computerised fireone system to further complement our existing electrical firing system. The new system will give us scope to be even more creative when designing our displays and ensure that we will continue to exceed our client’s expectations

Our client base is extensive, ranging from local councils and round tables, to corporates, sports clubs, private parties, weddings, birthdays and engagements. We have provided displays for Lancaster Castle, Clitheroe Castle, Woodvale International Rally, Preston River festival, and Virgin Gym to name a few.

If you want your event to be extra special, then a Firework Display can certainly give you the WOW factor! We are always happy to discuss client requirements on a free consultation basis, advising on a the range of options available, and what we believe would be the best option for your venue. At this point we will also tell prospective clients if we believe that it would be an unsafe venue for fireworks, as the safety of our clients and employee’s is paramount to us.

Top Tips for planning an event with Fireworks

  1. Ask your venue before booking if they allow fireworks and are there any restrictions ie: noise levels. Some venues require Low noise fireworks that will not disturb neighbours. We can provide low noise fireworks but if you want noise it’s always worth asking the question first to avoid disappointment.
  2. If the venue have never had fireworks before. It is always best to ask a professional firework company to assess the site. It may look as if there is enough space for fireworks, but there are specific distances that should be maintained to ensure that everyone is safe. A professional company will advise you what is possible.
  3. Think about what you want the fireworks to be like. Do you want a BIG impact with lots of noise that lasts a few minutes or do you want perhaps a fifteen minute display that is pretty with some noise, sometimes less is more
  4. I would like fireworks but my event is not at night. There are daytime fireworks available too! No matter what your planning day or night ask the question, you just might be surprised by the answer.
  5. Always ensure that you ask for proof of Insurance documents from your Firework Provider. If a firework company cannot provide copies of current Insurance documents look elsewhere.

Wedding Photography

Supplier Spotlight – Weddings by Michael

Weddings by Michael are long established wedding photographers with a strong contemporary and creative element. Each wedding is recorded on its own merits, with the images unique to each couple and their day. Michael’s specialist and low lighting skills enable the capture of unique and evocative images. Whilst some may see an overcast or rainy wedding day as being blighted, Michael relishes the challenge and manages to turn the most abysmal drab scene into something quite captivating. It’s these same skills and knowledge that has brought him to the attention of some of the most famous UK hotel brands, who retain Michael to produce their wedding brochure images.

The demand for Michael’s work has taken him the length and breadth of the UK, and new venues are a challenge he relishes. Changing weather or venue circumstances are also challenges that Michael seems to excel with, managing to create images that perhaps were completely unexpected by the bride and groom. We all hope for the best, yet Michael prepares for the worst.

Michael’s top tips for successful wedding photography:

  1. When researching for your photographer, don’t shop on price. The product you are purchasing is a combination of the photographer’s skills and the images created. Keep your budget in mind, just don’t let it be the decision maker.
  2. Arrange to meet your chosen photographer and view their work. Do they seem easy to get on with and quite relaxed? Are the images typical of what you would like in your own album? Don’t be afraid to ask about specific styles such as sepia, black and white or bleached.
  3. Examine the types of albums available. Some photographers specialise in storybook albums, whereas others will produce a more traditional style. Ask your photographer which styles he has available and if he can cater for your preferred style.
  4. Be prepared on the big day. Have a list prepared in advance of the group shots you require. It’s a busy and long day, and some groups can be overlooked. Give a copy to your photographer at least a week in advance. That way, should there be an anticipated problems, such as the time factor, they can be addressed in good time.
  5. Your photographer should be able to provide creative ideas for any informal portraits, but don’t be afraid to suggest some of your own. If you’ve seen images elsewhere that you would quite like to recreate, say so.
  6. The images and album are one of the few things you keep as a reminder of your day, so it’s worth putting some time into choosing the right photographer and helping them get the images you really want.

http://www.weddingsbymichael.co.uk

Professional Make-Up, Hair & Styling

Supplier Spotlight – Sarah Spears

Graduating from the Manchester School of Make –Up with a Full Diploma, Sarah has built up her company and experience over the past six years. From making brides feel wonderful on their special day, to high profile commercial shoots for Monarch Airlines, Republic, NOW Magazine, Granada, BBC, William Hill and Toni and Guy.

So how can Sarah help you?

Your Wedding Day

In the build up to your wedding day, Sarah and her team will create a bespoke look tailored to your personal needs. With a full consultation in the comfort of your own home, your desired look will be discussed and trialled with passion and care. The trial can be a calm affair with no interruptions from others, or a fun time to get all the girls together. On the day you will receive a text or call from Sarah to let you know she’s on her way. She will then style your hair and apply your make-up, to begin the process of making you feel wonderful on your special day.

Commercial & Events

With a wealth of experience, Sarah’s commercial expertise has taken her across the U.K. and on international travels. Listening to the clients needs and respecting the camera, Sarah will ensure the models and actors for your commercials, films and photography are styled as required.

Personal Styling Day

Sarah Spears and Passion 4 Events are teaming up to offer you a day to remember. Beginning with a look through your own wardrobe, Sarah will choose pieces to create a fabulous look for an evening out with your partner. Once your outfit is chosen, you will step into your chauffeur driven car and continue the day with lunch and shopping to add accessories or even new key pieces to your look. With the professional styling knowledge of Sarah Spears, you may even get a surprise on what new items you pick out! Finishing the experience at a fabulous boutique hotel, Sarah will style your hair and design a make-up look for the evening, before you dress, and are whisked off for a luxurious dinner.

What better gift, than the gift of confidence and feeling fabulous! For more information and our tailored package price, contact us today on 01772 497206.

Top Tips

1) For gorgeously glowing skin this spring summer massage a luminous moisturiser such as mac strobe cream into the skin before applying your regular foundation. The strobe effect will shine through leaving you with the most beautiful healthy glow.

2) A top trend this spring summer is the ‘pop’ of colour. A great way to get this is to focus on your lips with a candy pink or a bright coral. An insider tip for the perfect pout – line and colour the whole lips with a matching or similar lip pencil to make your colour last longer.

http://www.sarahspears.co.uk