1. JORGE ZURITA’S “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Y YY Your regular source of expertise www.EventPlanningMasters.com

2. JORGE ZURITA “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise www.EventPlanningMasters.com

3. SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT Gregory Jenkins Partner & Co-Founder of: BRAVO PRODUCTIONS www.EventPlanningMasters.com

4. WHY DON’T YOU JUST TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

5. I always knew as a kid that I wanted to do something in the events industry. In high school, I volunteered for homecomings and proms and just did all of that. In college, I was an advertising major because I really liked the creative process. I also majored in communications. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

6. My big break came when I got a chance to work on the Super Bowl. This was in the ‘80s. I just enjoyed the process, and that got me a lot of new jobs. Then I worked for a PR firm in Southern California. Later, me and an art director decided to start our own company and that’s how we started Bravo Productions. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

7. COULD YOU PLEASE TELL US HOW THE MOST RECENT ECONOMIC DOWNTURN HAS AFFECTED THE WAY PRODUCTION COMPANIES OPERATE? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

8. I think with the downturn in the economy all production companies have been forced to change the way they operate on different levels. On one level, we had to move to events that are measurable, strategically oriented or have a more defined purpose. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

9. You have to provide quality without the client having to spend a lot of money. The upside to this is, I think, this forced everybody to be more creative in their thinking and conservative in their spending. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

10. CAN YOU PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEW ECONOMIC DOWNTURN SURVIVAL STRATEGY? AND HOW IT HAS CREATED YOUR COST SAVING TEHNIQUES? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

11. We actually integrated these techniques as part of a strategy to create value with our clients. For us it’s broken down into different segments. From planning to transportation to food and beverages. In planning, for example, you have to know your history and review your historical patterns. Like how many people attended your previous events. Because you don’t want to spend money for no shows. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

12. One other thing is negotiating every supplier contract for a better rate. And another thing that we suggest is if there’s a dinner, make the event business casual instead of a black tie event, so people will not expect such a high caliber meal. Just in terms of how you position an event from the dress code, people’s expectations change and you can save a lot there. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

13. About food and beverages: For example, desert. Because most of the time people just take two bites of desert and not all of them eat desert, you can make smaller portions and cut down the costs a bit. One other thing I would say is eliminate the crudités on the buffet stations. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

14. GREG, DO YOU HAVE SOME OTHER TECHNIQUES ON OTHER AREAS, LIKE THE DÉCOR OR LIGHTING? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

15. For example, with lighting and audio- visual -- if you can use one screen as opposed to two and you can create visibility, obviously you have to go with one screen. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

16. For lighting, we suggest that if you don’t have a lot of money to spend on décor, definitely incorporate more lighting. Because lighting creates a different environment and provides a nice ambiance. Also try to concentrate on a focal point like the stage or bar. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

17. OF COURSE, THIS IS VERY APPEALING FOR OUR CUSTOMERS, BUT WHAT ABOUT THE AUDIENCE AND THE GUESTS? DO THEY ENJOY IT AS MUCH? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

18. Most of the time, the audience does not have a preconceived notion about how these events should look. A lot of it is in the planner’s mind and the directions from the client. The key is not to cut corners where it is noticeable. There are things that still bring value to an event, but also reduce your costs. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

19. CHANGING THE SUBJECT A LITTLE BIT -- PLEASE TELL US WHAT IS THE “21 BUILDING SKYLINE” IDEA? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

20. We actually work with an international association called BOMA (Building Owners & Managers Association). For example, any skyscrapers in Cancun or Japan -- those people are probably members in this association. So we do an awards program for them each year, for the Los Angeles affiliate. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

21. So with the “21 Building Skyline” project we try to replicate different types of buildings, very generic but so people can recognize the city from the skyline. This is to brand what this organization is all about. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

22. GREG, CAN YOU TELL US HOW THE GREEN THEME TREND WILL HELP TO SHAPE FUTURE EVENTS? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

23. You can already see how green themes are becoming more of a norm. And in addition to being environmentally friendly, it can be also very cost effective. For example, instead of mailing invitations, you can do it electronically. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

24. And then when considering gifts for participants, I see more and more planners thinking about products that are durable, minimally packaged, with non toxic materials. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

25. HAVE YOU DONE COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS DURING AN EVENT? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

26. I know we did a grand opening for a major retail complex and all the ticket sales went to support a charity for that community. We’ve done other projects where all the furniture and different things we purchased for the event were donated at the end. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

27. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT A COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT IN WHICH THE PARTICIPANTS GOT INVOLVED IN AN INTERACTICVE WAY WITH THE COMMUNITY? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

28. We did a back to school block party for 1000 homeless children. And we were able to get the community involved in this. Because we did it pro bono we went to all our suppliers and many of them donated things or provided staff to help us or just donated the water. We even went to one client and got back to school supplies like backpacks, pencils, notebooks etc. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

29. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST ABOUT YOUR PROFESSION? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

30. I enjoy the challenges that come from different experiences and projects because they really help you grow. I also enjoy the creative juices that flow from brainstorming, big ideas and concepts. I enjoy the great colleagues and leaders in the industry such as yourself. I enjoy mentoring others. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

31. WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE LEAST ABOUT THIS BUSINESS? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

32. The thing that I like least is teardown after an event. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

33. HOW CAN OUR SUBSCRIBERS FIND OUT MORE ABOUT YOU, YOUR BUSINESS, YOUR WEBSITE, YOUR BLOG? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

34. WWW.BRAVOEVENTS-ONLINE.COM TWITTER.COM/BRVPRODEVENTS Gregory Jenkins Partner & Co-Founder of: BRAVO PRODUCTIONS SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

35. IN YOUR PERSONAL OPINION, WHAT IS THE NUMBER ONE SECRET TO BEING SUCCESSFUL AS AN EVENT PROFESSIONAL? “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

36. “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Your regular source of expertise BE PASSIONATE ABOUT THE WORK AND THE PROCESS. APPROACH EACH EVENT LIKE YOUR BEST WORK EVER. LEARN AS MUCH ABOUT THE INDUSTRY AS YOU POSIBLY CAN. INCORPORATE THE 3 B’s: Think BIG! BRAND! BOLD! SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com

37. JORGE ZURITA “EVENT PLANNING TIPS FROM AN EXPERT” Good bye everybody, have a great event! SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIES TO ECONOMIZE WHEN PLANNING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR YOUR CLIENT www.EventPlanningMasters.com