Tag Archives: entertainment

Remember…It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

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Applause Productions & Entertainment

During this busy holiday season it is easy to get bogged down with business proposals, personal shopping, and a million other demands on your time. But remember…it’s the most wonderful time of the year. The sage often says reflection is a path to growth. Take the time to look back, see where you are now, and be grateful, no matter where that place may be. Lessons come in all forms.

1. Begin by recognizing any success. Whether you fell short of third-quarter goals or hit the mark beyond what you anticipated, there are successes to be celebrated. Focus on the positive, even if your company did not experience great monetary gains this year. Perhaps you have an outstanding employee that received stellar feedback or you were able to finish the year without layoffs. These gains need to be recognized and applauded, for they will keep you in the right frame of mind.

2. Mistakes are growth opportunities for those willing to learn and improve. True leadership requires an attitude of gratefulness no matter what the situation. A humble acceptance of shortfalls, without blame, can lead to progress that outshines what came before. In this way, team members are motivated to find solutions rather than focus only on problems.

3. Plan for what can be, not what is. With the technology revolution, a global economy now prevails. Do not hold on to what used to be; embrace the possibilities rather than regretting what was. Shaking hands and looking someone in the eye are becoming more difficult with distance and digital communication. This doesn’t have to be a negative. Learn how to use your tools and discover the opportunities waiting to be found.

Hiring the perfect musician for your event

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Applause Productions & Entertainment

Live music has the power to illicit an emotional response and create the event of a lifetime. Whether the party is themed with music at its center, or simply providing ambiance for an elegant evening, your choice of musical accompaniment is key. Here are a few tips on hiring the perfect musician for your event.

1. Understand the style and purpose of the music you need. There is nothing worse than asking for a “jazzy” group, and then being disappointed with a jazz trio because what you really wanted was a high-energy variety band. Be prepared with stylistic examples and do your research; know what musical genre you truly expect and what will best entertain your group.

2. When choosing a musical act,  the technical aspects are as crucial as the artistic ones. Be knowledgeable about how many electrical circuits your band or musicians will need. Ask if there is an additional charge for electricity. Understand the physical space so that your entertainment can be viewed and heard with ease. An intimate dinner for 75 guests is not conducive to a 10-piece band, nor will a solo harpist capture the attention of 800 people in a grand ballroom.

3. Be creative and don’t forget that unique and unusual choices can be showstoppers.  Align yourself with an experienced agency that has the talent to recommend and produce the event suited to your needs. A strolling accordionist can take your guests to Italy, France, or even Germany without a single plane ticket. A zydeco band will bring the bayou to your guests during an exciting Mardi Gras party, while a Rock of Ages show will ignite your event with rockers from the past.

Ultimately, you don’t have to settle for what everybody else typically does. Think outside of your comfort zone, be aware of your venue and requirements, and know what you want.

Tired of waiting on hold? Direct communication is key…

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 Applause Productions & Entertainment

Press 1 to order a clown…

Press 2 to order an event greeter…

In this digital age it is easy to feel disconnected and ignored; but, when hiring entertainment that has the power to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it is essential that precise communication between you and your team is the centerpiece of the creative process. Tired of waiting on hold? Direct communication is key…

1. Do they listen? As you plan your event, a good team will be receptive to your needs, expectations, and ideas. There should be a healthy, creative dialogue that ensures your confidence in their commitment to provide the ultimate entertainment for your event.

2. Are they timely? Planning a big event takes time. During the process, your team should demonstrate their professionalism by providing pertinent information promptly. E-mails and phone calls should be returned within 24 hours so that you know they are dedicated to the success of your event.

3. Do they follow through? As your event approaches, your team should be on scene both before and during the final moments to guarantee a seamless production. A professional team will predict unforeseen circumstances, handle them with ease, and keep you calm, comfortable, and confident.