ADH Events website updated and same for facebook

Photos have been added to http://www.adh-events.com and the same for http://www.facebook.com/adhevents

ADH Events new website

Just launched our new website http://www.adh-event... . Almost complete, needs pictures in the gallery section and a little bit more text

New Event Staff

ADH Events is proud to announce the addition of Dave Wheeler as Multimedia Producer and Jeremy Lawn as AV Producer

New Chicago Hotel

Just went to visit the Elysian Hotel. Stunning. http://www.elysianhotels.com/

NGLCC business owners on Healthcare

http://www.nglcc.org/BIZ/advocacy/smallbusinessownersonhealthcare

Meetings, Events and Green

soy/vegetable ink cartridges are available. Ashame as we print all other materials on 100% recycled paper and soy/vegetable based inks

Meetings and Special Events bags

I just received this email from http://www.bagwarehouse.com/. I like it because they have a nice variety of eco-friendly and recycled bags available.

Meeting and Event Planning Trend?

Maybe you're aware that the fastest growing segment for the meeting and event planning industry is the funeral industry. You can read more about it in this New York Times article: http://www.nytimes.com/2006/07/20/fashion/20funeral.html.We recei...ved an invite to a funeral and unfortunately couldn't make it. The widow renewed her vows after the funeral service was over. Is this a new trend?Read More

ADH Events is growing

As the economy is picking up and we're adding more staff to the company, I'm meeting with a few new potential staff members. One is an AV specialist. We worked together at a different company and it would be great to have him on board. It would free up a lot of my time.

The second person is a graphics and video designer, who does just amazing work. We also used to work together and having him as a new staff members, would really allow us to expand the scope of our services.

A third person to whom I've got a call out is someone else I used to work with and I would love to get him on board as our book keeper and office manager.

This all amazes me as three years ago next month when I started the company, it was just Paul Sullenger and myself. Last year October Suzun Edmead joined (we used to work together in New Orleans), followed a few weeks ago by Allyson (Helle) Rinaldo (we used to work together in Lincolnshire, Illinois) and last week with Meredith Dodson (who used to work with Allyson at the same company I used to work for.

All of this means that by this year's end we're possibly up to 8 staff members, not counting all the freelance staff we have on board.

Client Referral Event Management

It has been a long and interesting week. This week I received an email from a potential new client who was referred to me by an old client of mine. After having exchanged a few emails and a phone call, we made an appointment to meet the next morning while he happened to be in town. One thing he didn't realize till after we spoke, that the company he was representing, already had in-house event planning staff available.

The next day we met and during the conversation spoke about what the company was looking for in an event space and they already had two spaces in mind. Due to the size of the spaces they had in mind, I thought of another space. It was decided that we would meet again the next day, but he would bring a few people along. As I'm an one car family, I rented a car for the next day and picked them up at the train station. They were all coming in by train.

I showed them the new space I had in mind, and although it could work, one of the challenges is that the client doesn't know how many people might be attending the event. It could be 30, it could be 150 or potentially more. So we needed a space that we could "grow" into, without looking out of place if we didn't reach the numbers.

Immediately another space came to mind, happened to be available, and took them over to the space immediately. They loved it. One little snafu though, they now also would prefer the space to be wireless. As the space has neither hardwire or wireless internet service in the space, I'm going back again on Monday with a specialist to see how we can bring in inexpensively highspeed wireless service. If this doesn't work out, I've got another space in mind, similar feel to it, which can accommodate their needs.

Members who like: Alexander deHilster

ADH Events is setting up in their office for a meeting tomorrow. The client is coming in to look at linens, floral and decor for their October event.

tasting

tasting of the dinner menu yesterday went well. food tasted great in general, made a few changes and replaced one of the dishes. The vegan dish was the best. Just deliscious

audio visual walkkthrough

Going for a walkthrough this morning with the AV company with the goal of saving our client money again

San Diego Top Restaurant

recommends the top (non) Mexican restaurant for your next event in San Diego. Small but with an amazing menu and ambience

tasting and walkthrough

tasting today in San Diego for the October Awards Dinner event went well. Also found a few great restaurants for a private dinner event

Lunch with a former client and now a friend

Just had lunch at the new The Wit Hotel in Chicago. Unfortunately it rained and we had to sit indoors instead on the outdoor roofdeck terrace. Their Truffle Fries were to die for.

Wine Tasting

Went wine tasting this morning at 10 am for an October 31st awards dinner in San Diego. Narrowed it down from 9 wines to 2

50th birthday party

planned last Saturday a lovely 50th birthday party for Mike in our garden. We had nearly 80 guests come over. Thanks to the beautiful linen from BBJ, furniture and equipment from Hall's, the wonderful services of bartender Margaret, the amazing food and service from the Entertaining Company, the hopping sounds provided by Dominic and the cool lights from Sound Investment, a great night was had by all.

Donating Services

International Visitor Center Chicago in our office today. I'm considering becoming a host and will donate $5K of services for silent auction

New Staff Member

Ordered a new laptop and business cards for Meredith. Hopefully both will arrive before the end of the week

New York BizBash award

ADH Events is submitting today "best non-profit fundraiser event concept" paperwork for an award that will be announced on October 21st in New York at a www.bizbash.com event.

New Senior Event Planner at ADH Events

Meredith Dodson is joining ADH Events starting on August 10. Her title will be Senior Event Planner. Meredith and Allyson used to work together at another meeting and event planning firm.

More staff at ADH Events

Alexander is going to make an offer in the morning to a new staff member

www.bizbash.com judge

Alexander is going to be a judge on Monday July 27 for http://www.bizbash.com/ Chicago deciding who will be chosen as a winner for the August 20th awards

New ADH Events business cards

Received new business cards for Suzun and Allyson, printed on recycled paper with soy/vegetable based ink, staying environmentally friendly

ADH Events is growing

We're growing - slowly - and currently are looking for another office space - have sort of found one, but will have to negotiate the lease as the cost is quite high

Interview in the morning for a new meeting planner

Interviewing an event planner tomorrow. we used to work at the same meeting planning company. need to buy more furniture and another laptop

Interview in the morning for a new meeting planner

Interviewing an event planner tomorrow. we used to work at the same meeting planning company. need to buy more furniture and another laptop

ADH Evens is growing

We're growing - slowly - and currently are looking for another office space - have sort of found one, but will have to negotiate the lease as the cost is quite high

Second International Conference of Fashion Incubators is November 12-14, 2009

Need assistance with the planning of a show, reception, dinner or any other type of event. Gives us a call and we'll provide you with a competitive bid.



http://www.adh-events.com/

+1-312-265-9759 x15

Allyson Rinaldo - Director of Sales

arinaldo@adh-events.com

PRSA Conference November 7-9 - San Diego

Although we're a Chicago based meeting and event planning company, we happened to be in San Diego already due to finishing up on a different program.

Do you need assistance with the planning of a conference related reception, searching for a venue for an event or a client dinner? Need help with decor, entertainment or transportation or anything else, please don't hesitate to give us a call.

http://www.adh-events.com/
1-312-265-9759 x15
Allyson Reynolds
Director of Sales

San Diego Realtors Conference Nov 13-16, 2009

Anyone needs assistance with the planning to host a reception or dinner during the conference. We can find venues, private rooms, take care of wine and food pairings, decor, entertainment, transportation or anything else that is needed to make your event successfull

http://www.adh-events.com/

Suzun Edmead's new title

Suzun Edmead received this week the new title of Director of Global Sales, due to her focus on international companies who are planning programs in both North America and other parts of the world.

Allyson (Helle) Rinaldo joined ADH Events

Allyson (Helle) Rinaldo joined ADH Events this week as the Director of Sales. Allyson's back ground is in pharma. Allyson and Alexander used to work together at a company that was specialized in Pharmaceutical Meetings. For those who know Allyson, please feel free to contact her in the office at +1-312-265-9759 x15 or via email at arinaldo@adh-events.com

Alexander deHilster interviewed by NGLCC Biz

Here is the link to the interview: http://www.nglcc.org/BIZ/management/adhevents

ADH Events meeting with procurement and sourcing departments

ADH Events won the NGLCC contest, allowing them to present their company in front of Fortune 500 procurement and sourcing departments last Saturday in Seattle at the NGLCC's "Out for Business" Conference.

The conference was very successfull and well attended. If nothing else the weather in Seattle happened to be just spectacular - every day blue skies and mid to high 70s.

Alexander deHilster was able to meet with many corporations, including Merck, Ernst & Young, UPS and Accenture, just to name a few.

Seize the crisis: Thriving in today's economy
May 27, 2009
8:30-10 a.m.
Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
191 N. Wacker Drive, #3700


Participants receive a free copy of the book, "Surviving and Thriving in the Economic Crisis."

"A crisis is a terrible thing to waste." -- Paul Romer, Economist
In today's economy, there is no business as usual. Organizations most likely to survive and thrive are using the downturn as an opportunity to take a fresh look at what's important, and to try new ways to achieve it.

The question is: will you emerge as one of the winners?


PA Consulting Group and the BABC Chicago are proud to present this interactive session. The discussion will cover the origins of the crisis through to its current impact on markets and the businesses that comprise them. More importantly, it will open discussion on what business leaders can do to enhance the likelihood of survival and success in this extraordinary environment.

Our Speakers:
Mark Thomas
Head of PA's Strategy practice and author of "The Complete CEO" and "Surviving and Thriving in the Economic Crisis."

Martin Evans
Professor of Economics in Georgetown's Department of Economics and Professor of Finance in the McDonough School of Business.
Cost: $25.00 - BABC members; $35 non-BABC Members (hot breakfast included).
To register contact Chris Brenkus at cbrenkus@babcc.org or 312-828-9861.

Domestic Sales Meeting and teambuilding event

ADH Events is producing a sales meeting and teambuilding event. At the multi-day program a new product will be launched

Sales Meeting

ADH Events is planning a sales meeting. The client is from India and the program is to take place in Chicago

Meetings and Events are happening again

ADH Events is working on a product launch proposal for an international client

HRC Town Hall Meeting Update - Near West Side Chicago - May 3, 2009

John and Char Cepek - President, PFLAG International, will be on the Oak Park Panel

HRC Town Hall Meeting Near West Side Chicago - May 3, 2009

WORKING FOR LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER EQUAL RIGHTS
HRC near west suburban Town Hall
(Second of three to be held in Chicago)
To Focus on national and local glbt issues: to feature keynote panelists
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL


Sunday May 3rd
“Near West Suburban Town Hall”
The Velvet Rope
728 Lake St. Oak Park, IL
3-5pm


Featuring:
Marty Rouse, Human Rights Campaign National Field Director
Lois Bates, Howard Brown Health Clinic Transgender Health Services
Oak Park GLBT Representatives TBD


For more information and to RSVP, contact hrc_chicago@yahoo.com.
Indicate you’ll be attending the “Near West Suburban Town Hall.”

HRC Town Hall Meeting North Side Chicago May 2, 2009

WORKING FOR LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER EQUAL RIGHTS
HRC northside Town Hall
(Second of three to be held in Chicago)
To Focus on national and local glbt issues: to feature keynote panelists
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL

Saturday May 2nd
“Northside Town Hall”
In Fine Spirits
5418 N. Clark St. Chicago, IL
3-5pm

Featuring:
Marty Rouse, Human Rights Campaign National Field Director
Bill Greaves, Mayor Daley’s GLBT Liaison
Vernita Gray, Cook County States Attorney’s Office Representative
Lois Bates, Howard Brown Health Clinic Transgender Health Services


For more information and to RSVP, contact hrc_chicago@yahoo.com.
Indicate you’ll be attending the “NorthsideTown Hall.”

HRC Town Hall Meeting South Side Chicago - May 1, 2009

WORKING FOR LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER EQUAL RIGHTS
HRC Southside Town Hall
(first of three to be held in Chicago)
To Focus on national and local glbt issues: to feature keynote panelists
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL

Friday May 1st
HRC “Southside” Town Hall
Anderson Park
3748 S. Prairie Ave. Chicago, IL
6-8pm
In collaboration with Windy City Black Pride

Featuring:
Marty Rouse, Human Rights Campaign National Field Director
Vernita Gray, Cook County States Attorney’s Office Representative
Lois Bates, Howard Brown Health Clinic Transgender Health Services
Keith McCoy, Windy City Gay Black Pride Representative


For more information and to RSVP, contact hrc_chicago@yahoo.com.
Indicate you’ll be attending the “Southside Town Hall.”

NGLCC "Out for Business" Conference

Alexander just registered for the NGLCC's "Out for Business" conference in Seattle, May 27-June 1, 2009

NGLCC puts ADH Events, certified as a diversity supplier, in the spotlight for the month of April

Go to the following link to learn more about ADH Events: http://www.nglcc.org/node/8161

20 ways in which we have recently saved our clients money - share yours on this discussion forum and ‘Keep America Meeting’.

Use online invitations/registrations, this also eliminates tracking manual emails
2. Use social media, networking sites to invite attendees
3. Host meetings/conferences in less expensive cities with alternative airports to fly into
4. Shuttle attendees or share a ride and/or offer limited hours instead of as and when guests arrive
5. Select less expensive venues: Art Gallery over museum or University auditorium over well known event facility
6. Look for a member of a Private club in your organization. Members have great incentives to spend in house with group events. Clubs often have multiple locations and are willing to offer a discount for hosting a series of meetings
7. A restaurant buyout can be cheaper than renting an event venue
8. Piggy back with shouldering groups by sharing speakers, entertainment, audio visual and decor
9. Use outside audio visual instead of in-house
10. Use local entertainment such as music schools, church groups, music clubs, and multi-cultural groups saving on travel expenses.
11. Use in house or produce reusable signage
12. Instead of room drops have a manned registration desk to give out materials, gifts etc
13. Base F&B on consumption instead of pp cost and offer wine and beer only, with maybe one specialty drink instead of an open bar
14. Order less expensive wines by comparing wine lists with online wine rating websites
15. Use water pitchers with glassware instead of bottled water
16. Use a semi private room which won’t have an F&B min and room rental
17. Select non-floral centerpieces or reuse floral over multiple days
18. Look at shipping linens to more expensive cities
19. Have a wireless cyber lounge: a designated "break out room", negotiate it for free with the hotel. Place signage ‘with compliments’ with the hotel as sponsor
20. Meeting planners usually can obtain further discounts on meetings rooms and ask them to deduct their sleeping room commission from their management fee

ADH Events is now a diversity supplier

ADH Events became certified by the NGLCC, which allows us to register as a diversity supplier with many organizations, including Fortune 500 companies.

For those of you who don't know who ADH Events is, we're a Chicago based meeting and event planning firm, producing board and sales meetings, investigator meetings, training seminars, diversity retreats, incentive trips, team building events, client dinners, political events and fundraisers, just to name a few.

In addition, we speak a multitude of languages, among them all the European languages, allowing us to assist our clients with the planning of their programs anywhere in the world.

Check us out on the web, call us or send us an email.

Talk to you soon.

Alexander

Venues and Audio Visual - In House or outside Source?

Did you know that most venues allow you to bring in an outside source for all of your audio visual needs? Did you know that virtually all in-house audio visual companies have to pay a fee to the hotels, which of course is being tacked onto your bill.

In most cases, bringing in an outside audio visual company, even with sometimes the penalties that need to be paid to the hotel (up to 20%), and inclusive of our management fee, the outside audio visual company is the less expensive way to go.

Meetings and Events in a down economy

This is the best time to plan a meeting or an event. Everyone is interested in negotiating the best deal, whether it is a hotel, the caterer, transportation or the audio visual company.

Did you know that most hotels, when booking sleeping rooms, they pay 3rd party planners like us, a commission. In addition most planners charge a management fee. We actually deduct the commission from our fee, which will give you either more money to spend on other items or will save your overall budget.