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JANUARY ISSUE

 NEWSLETTER 


          

President's Message
Bryan Bell
Bryan.Bell@decorandmore.com

 

   

I hope you are all enjoying a wonderful New Year. I am proud to report on the success that the chapter has enjoyed over the last quarter and am excited to announce some of the wonderful events and initiatives we have planned for the next few months.

First, I would like to thank all of those who attended our annual Gala at the Palais Royale on Nov. 6, 2007, as we had over 100 people in attendance. Through your contributions, and those of our amazing event sponsors and silent auction donors, we were able to raise a record $ of which half went to our selected charity 'Dreams Take Flight.' The food was amazing at this beautiful venue, the entertainment was outstanding, and a great time was had by all. For those who missed it there is a full event recap in this newsletter.

Last week ISES Toronto was hosted by the Capitol Theatre where Rob Alexiou of LOGOSBRANDS spoke on innovation in relation to branding in driving our businesses forward. This wonderfully interactive presentation allowed guests a look at some unique trends in the world of marketing in a highly visual and educational format. Our programming team continues to work diligently on bringing you the best in the way of industry education and quality events.

To that end we are very excited about our February meeting where we will be hosting the second annual ISES Toronto venue crawl. Building on the success of last year's initial sold out event, we will be offering a tour of several venues within the Distillery District. Fabulous food, signature drinks, and unique venue spaces will be the highlight of this fun networking event held on February 26th. Space will be limited again this year so be sure to register early to avoid disappointment.

Information on upcoming events will be posted on the website in the near future including the March event which will feature a 'green' theme. On February 20th, BiZBash Toronto will be hosting an ISES Anniversary reception at their annual tradeshow where International President Connie Riley, CSEP will be in attendance, and the 9th Annual Canadian Special Events and Meetings Expo comes to Toronto April 1-3.

There is a lot to look forward to in the upcoming months both in the Toronto event industry and in particular with the ISES Toronto chapter. As always your participation in the chapter at a committee level is encouraged and appreciated, as we are continually trying to add to the experience of being an ISES member. I hope you enjoy the additional initiatives the chapter is currently working on which are listed in this newsletter, and hope to see you at our upcoming events in 2008.

All the best,

Sincerely,
Bryan Bell
President, ISES Toronto Chapter


FOCUS ON INNOVATION - ISES Toronto January Meeting Recap
Martin Rubio martin@vroommedia.com

What a great way to start the year with a bang! Those who braved the cold were treated with an inspiration of ideas, a fabulous venue and exquisite food!

Rob Alexiou, Chief Innovation Officer for LOGOSBRANDS http://www.logosbrands.com, discussed innovation and provided us with the tools to foster the ideas that will drive success in your own company!

As an added bonus, we took the opportunity to view the newly renovated space at the Capitol Events Theatre http://www.eventtheatres.com All catering was provided by In-House Executive Chef Richard Adino and Executive Catering Chef Andrew Edney of Flow Restaurant + Lounge fame http://www.flowrestaurant.com

Best Original Venue:
The Capitol Event Theatre lovingly restored to its original 1918 grandeur, featuring period architecture and elegant vintage details. The sophistication of an Old World movie house and a modern facility is the perfect venue for any memorable function from weddings, intimate sit-down dinners, cocktail receptions, dinner station events, corporate events, etc. Drink in Atmosphere: The Capitol is a fully licensed establishment with two beautiful custom crafted mahogany bars. The stylish mezzanine bar is perfect for cocktails and hors d'oeuvres while the Capitol's showpiece, a stunning circular bar on the main level, is where guests enjoyed most their evening, before and after the meeting.

About The Presenter:
As Chief Innovation Officer of LOGOSBRANDS, Rob Alexiou is responsible for establishing and maintaining innovation as one of the core values of the company. As a brand strategist, Rob thrives on building and evolving brands not merely for today's solutions, but for tomorrow's successes.

Rob has over 18 years of design and strategic experience in the industry. He has been a key factor in the successful development of award-winning brand identity programs for a wide range of clients such as Tim Hortons, Debbie Travis, Canadian Tire, General Mills, Corby Distilleries, National Bank, Molson, Danone, Kraft, Cadbury Adams, Campbell's, Saputo, GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer.
Rob has studied at Humber College for Advertising and Design as well as at the University of Toronto for Economics. Rob currently teaches at OCAD and is an active member of DMI and CAUS.

Some of the inspirational quotes included:

  • Innovation is the origin of growth and the key to propelling successful businesses forward.
  • Bring life to a brand has never been more relevant in this world filled with opinionated consumers.
  • Escapism takes your client to places where they have never been, indulge them!
  • Consumers are smart your brands need to be smarter.
  • Stop looking in your backyard for answers the world is your oyster.
  • Do more research around the world; see what others are doing for inspiration.
  • The brand must, must, must tell a need or create a new one.
  • Embrace challenges and conflict, it motivates everyone to think out loud.
  • Look for consumers and clients for answers, don't forget the niche ones.
  • New ideas should embrace a full sensory experience.
  • You don't have to be creative to be innovative.
  • Simplicity in themes in order to get the brand message across.
  • Colors, fabrics and materials are at the forefront of personifying the brand.
  • Make sure every touch point is memorable.
  • Stay one step ahead of change.

Thank you once again to all who attended and to our sponsors including Alan Smithson of Star Productions for providing the AV. See everyone at the upcoming events and meetings which include next's month Venue Crawl!


UPCOMING EVENTS 

Mark your calendar for these exciting upcoming events!

February 26 2008 - ISES Toronto Venue Crawl - Distillery District

March 18, 2008 - Green Events - How to make your events environmentally friendly! - Location TBD

April 9, 2008 - Fun at the Ricoh Coliseum- Enjoy A Marlies Game in a Private Box!

June 2008 - ISES 20th Anniversary Celebration!

*If you are interested in sponsoring one of the above events please email Michelle at   michelle@regaltent.com


UPCOMING INDUSTRY EVENTS

BizBash Event Style Show Expo & Awards - February 20 2008 - Direct Energy Centre
On Wednesday, February 20, join over 1,000 of your meeting and event colleagues at the Direct Energy Centre for a world filled with great ideas!

In one day, under one roof:
- Hear amazing speakers, including our keynote speaker, legendary event designer Preston Bailey
- Explore over 100 exhibits, including caterers, venues, photographers, lighting designers, rental houses, technology experts, and printing companies, and many more!
- Attend our first full conference program on everything from Greening Your Events to developing the ideal environment for entertainment.

Register today at www.bizbash.com/toronto/tradeshow

ALSO, BizBash will be hosting a MEMBERS ONLY ISES TORONTO ANNIVERSARY RECEPTION from 3:0 - 4:00 pm. Watch your email for an exclusive invitation!

 

CSEME 2008 - April 1-3, 2008 - MTCC
CANADIAN EVENT PERSPECTIVE PRESENTS THE MOST POWERFUL CSEME CONFERENCE EVER
On April 1-3, 2008 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, CEP Magazine, Canada’s leading marketing source for the events and meetings industry, will present the Canadian Special Events & Meetings Expo (CSEME) 2008. Now in its 9th year in Toronto, CSEME features over 100 unique vendors, 33 speakers and 3
days of powerful educational sessions, keynotes, workshops, displays, social events, networking opportunities and more.

Headlining at CSEME 2008, CEP presents HGTV’s Designer Guys, (April 2nd at 12:30 PM) who will share their views on how the world of cutting edge interior design can influence the landscape of special events.

On Thursday April 3rd. CEP presents A Morning With the Masters featuring 3 of North America's most successful and awarded planners, followed by an Open Mic Luncheon (with the 3 Masters). Thursday evening, CSEME wraps up when the STARS come out for the 11th Annual Canadian Event Industry Awards Gala to be
held at CIRCA.

Conference packages, as well as a special package rate for the April 3rd , which includes the Morning with the Masters, Creativity Breakfast, Open Mic Luncheon, full trade show access April 2nd and a ticket to the Star Awards Gala are available online at www.canadianspecialevents.com


WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!
We would like to extend a big welcome to all new members! Our membership continues to grow with a variety of Planners and Special Event service providers. ISES Toronto is dedicated to helping special events professionals produce outstanding results for clients while establishing positive working relationships with other event colleagues.

For those still considering membership, we encourage you to come on board for the exciting months ahead! Discover how being part of our growing association will help you establish more business and expand your knowledge. Visit our website at www.isestoronto.com to learn more about the benefits of membership or contact Carol Ford directly at info@isestoronto.com.  

Lynn Ferguson  - Conundrum Adventures Inc. lynn@conundrumadventures.com www.conundrumadventures.com

Robert Barbieri - Hard Rock Café  Toronto_Sales@hardrock.com www.hardrock.com

Dusty Vacon - Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology dusty.vacon@mohawkcollege.ca

Nathalie Burri - Ricoh Coliseum, Maple Leaf Sport & Entertainment nburri@mapleleafsports.com www.ricohcoliseum.com

Alan Smithson - Star Productions Inc. alan@starproductions.com   www.starproductions.com

Frank Casarella - Stella Entertainment Inc. stellaentertainment@bellnet.ca  www.stellaentertainmentservices.com

 

WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE EMAIL CONTACT ERROR PUBLISHED IN OUR LAST ISSUE:
Rawle Borel Jr. - Sugarfoote Communications
rawle@sugarfoote.com


ISES TORONTO LEADERSHIP AWARD WINNERS
Congratulations to the following members for participation and dedication to the ISES Toronto Chapter.

Past President Award
Deborah Macfie, Gourmet Cuisine

Leadership Award
Lara McCulloch, Regal Tent Productions Ltd.

Outstanding Member Award
Karen Eluck CSEP, CMP   KEP Events 
Sherie Roberts, Ontario Science Centre

Outstanding Supplier
Carol Mair, Balloon Corporate Events

Outstanding Volunteer/Student Award
Centennial College
George Brown College
Seneca College


ISES TORONTO GALA RECAP

The ISES Gala held on November 16 was another tremendous success. To all those who were fortunate to attend the 'Swing Out in Style' themed Gala held at the beautiful & recently renovated Palais Royale, a historical venue on the Lake Ontario shores. It gave the glittering evening a feeling of something extra special, which the night most definitely was. This historic venue is one of Toronto's famed dance halls and now with its stunning renovation has returned to its 'hey day glory' with a modern interpretation of its original architecture.

The Palais Royale was decked out to the nines in true 'Swing Out in Style', which epitomized the 1920s era. The dance floor was kept lively by the fantastic lineup of entertainment which included swing music and an amazing swing dancing group. The evenings entertainment was provided by Kira Callahan's Lil' Savoy Swing Band, The Anthony Terpstra Seventet and Carol Lykkemark of Lykkemark Enterprises. It even featured The Sands Trio which included performances by Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Frank Sinatra look-alikes!

   

The entire venue was in true opulent 'Swing Out in Style' theme, everything from the décor, place settings, even the bars were outfitted with beautiful ice sculptures & drink luges from Ice Culture. Guests were also treated to handwriting analysis by Elaine Charal and caricatures by Jan Walsh Art. And what would a great event be without a great MC? Alan Smithson of Star Productions kept us laughing and entertained all night long.

Both the silent auction and the raffle were a huge success and had some pretty fabulous prizes for the offering. Not only was the event a huge success, the event managed to also raise over $3600 for the 'Dreams Take Flight' Charity http://www.dreamstakeflight.org, through a portion of the proceeds from the silent auction! Dreams Take Flight a National Children's Charity has taken over 14000 little angels in just over 18 years to the Walt Disney Magic Kingdom Parks. These are precious children with life threatening illnesses, from disadvantaged situations and ones that are physically and mentally challenged.

 

The ISES Toronto Board of Directors wishes to 'Thank!' everyone for your proud support in making 'Magical Memories for Special Kids'! A great deal of 'Thanks!' is also due to all of our sponsors and the many volunteers without whom the night would not have been possible.

ISES Toronto worked with Innovolve Group to ensure the event was as "green" and environmentally responsible as possible. All the photographs are courtesy of Envision Digital Photography who captured the evening in all its glory. Décor was provided by: Stardust Events, Designing Trendz , Decor & More, Chair Decor, Balloon Corporate Events, and Airstar. A special thanks to ALL our sponsors!

What a great way to end the year, a wonderful evening that all who attended won't soon forget!


SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR CHAPTER SPONSORS...

 

         

                                                                                       

INTERESTED IN BECOMING AN ISES TORONTO CHAPTER SPONSOR?
Special Rates available to June 30 2008.

Contact us at info@isestoronto.com for more details!


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ISES Toronto Chapter
312 Oakwood Court.
Newmarket, Ontario, Canada     L3Y 3C8
Tel: (905) 898-7434   Fax: (905) 895-1630
E: info@isestoronto.com    W: www.isestoronto.com