Canadian Event Perspective Magazine


















Welcome to Canadian Event Perspective Magazine (CEP) online. This e-version of Canada's only national event publication keeps you in the know and up to date on the hottest trends and meeting industry buzz in Canada. Find out what's hot and where to buy it, what's happening with Canada's industry associations and so much more.

Each section gives you highlights of the articles you want to read, simply click on the links to read the full version. We hope you enjoy CEP Online and we look forward to continuing to be the leading source of news for the Canadian events & meetings Industry.


It's shaping up to be a banner year for planners across the country. Everyone seems to be buzzing with events and lots of proposals. There also seems to be a great number of job openings coming across my desk. Everything from sales associates for technical suppliers to association planners, coordinators and event administration. Be sure to check out the new jobs section of our online tools at www.canadianspecialevents.com.

This issue of CEP Online covers the summer's hottest trends (see What's Hot), we cover some of the best hotel deals around in Meeting Spaces and take a peek into coolest events around the country. It's packed with great ideas and information to help you make your events a success and keep up to date on what's happening in Canada's event and meeting industry. Hope you enjoy our summer edition of CEP Online and remember to look for the summer issue of CEP magazine in your mailbox very soon.

Have a wonderful, eventful summer. See you in the fall!











Canada:
Canadians are set to win big at this year's Spotlight Awards and the Esprit Awards. The Spotlight Awards are presented by American based Event Solutions Magazine. Awards will be handed out to the winners in Washington DC at the 8th Annual Event Solutions Expo in August. Click here for conference details.

Spotlight nominated Canadians include:

  • Caterer of the Year
    Debra Lykkemark Culinary Capers Catering Inc., Vancouver, BC

  • Event Producer of the Year
    Doug Matthews, Pacific Show Productions, Burnaby BC

The Esprits are presented by ISES International and will be presented at the ISES Eventworld Conference in Chicago in August. Click here for details of the conference. www.ises.com

Canadians nominated for the Esprit Awards include:

  • Corporate Event Planning Budget $0- $50,000 USD
    Carolyn Luscombe CSEM, CSEP, CMP , Eclectic Events International , Toronto, ON, Canada

  • Corporate Event Planning Budget over $100,001 USD
    Hala Bissada Hala Event & Communications Inc. Toronto, ON, Canada

  • Event Design Award Budget $20,001 - $50,000 USD
    Lori Bodkin, Table Talk, Inc., Calgary, AB, Canada

  • Event Design Award Budget over $50,001 USD
    Bryan Bell Décor and More, Inc. Oakville, ON, Canada

  • Event Design Award Budget over $50,001 USD
    Jo-Ann Craigie Visions Display Inc. Toronto, ON, Canada

  • Social Event Planning Budget $0 - $50,000
    Carolyn Luscombe CSEM, CSEP, CMP Eclectic Events International Toronto, ON, Canada

  • Social Event Planning Budget over $100,001 USD
    Hala Bissada & Lori Moggy Hala Events & Communications Inc. & Children's Aid Foundation Toronto, ON, Canada

  • Entertainment Production Award Budget $ 0- $30,000 USD
    Jocelyn Flanagan, e=mc2 Event Management, Inc. , Calgary, AB, Canada

  • Entertainment Production Award Budget $30,001 - $75,000 USD
    Jo-Ann Craigie Visions Display Inc. Toronto, Ontario, Canada

  • Marketing Design Award Budget over $10,001 USD
    Heather Kaufman City of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada

Toronto:
MTCC has won two prestigious facility management industry awards from the Building Owners, Managers Association (BOMA). On April 14th, 2004, the MTCC was awarded a Certificate of Building and Management Excellence in the Public Assembly Building Category, as well as the coveted Building of the Year award in the same category. "We really pride ourselves on running the building as best-of-class," says Vince Quattrociocchi, MTCC's Vice President, Operations. "Submitting to this rigorous judgment process by a committee of seasoned peer professionals is an opportunity to really put our approach to the test"

Brampton:
Newly emerged on the event production scene is Vision Event Management, located in Brampton, Ontario. Owner Lynne Atkinson formed the company in 2003 and has recently announced its official launch. Over the past ten years, Atkinson has produced and directed theatrical shows and has overseen the production of provincial conferences and other corporate events. Look for more to come from Vision. www.visionevents.ca.

Toronto:

Deerhurst Resort is proud to present a brand new addition to its entertainment schedule beginning July 23rd. Brian Michaels, an award-winning entertainer, will be performing his amazing interactive magic & illusion show in the Lodge Show Room Tuesdays & Fridays at 8 p.m. Click here for full story >>

Vancouver:
PGI Canada is proud to announce the appointment of a new General Manager - Jack Tillar. Jack has been with PGI Canada for three years, playing a number of different roles. Prior to his position with us, Jack was a thirty-year veteran with Westin Hotels. Click here for full story >>

Toronto:

'Toronto Remembers D-Day, 1944' was an all-day event on June 6th, 2004, the 60th Anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. All day there were exhibits and entertainment at Toronto City Hall.....click here for full story >>

Niagara:
Ventures Niagara has changed its focus to a broader perspective and changed its name as well, to Meeting-SimpliCity. Meeting-SimpliCity.com focuses on making the process of coordinating Events/Meetings within Southern Ontario & Western New York a Simplified Process with ONE CALL capability! www.Meeting-SimpliCity.com.

Toronto:

High atop the SoHo Metropolitan (SoHo Met), the 89-room ultra-luxury hotel in the heart of downtown Toronto, an opulent suite opened its doors to discerning travelers this week amid much hype and anticipation. Quite possibly... click here for more >>

Montreal:

CMP Information, the publisher of Rental & Staging Systems magazine, and the International Communications Industries Association, Inc.® (ICIA®) named Duocom as the winner for Best Overall Staging for a Corporate or Association Event, Large Venue (Technology budget greater than $200K): for the 14th World Congress of the World Federation of the Deaf and Most Innovative use of Technology, Outdoor Event: for Montreal's Urban Passenger, Live on the Conveyer Pier. Click here for full story >>

Toronto:
Jordan Bitove, President and CEO of Vision Group of Companies, Toronto, ON, announced today that Bill Gaskey has joined the company as Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Geoff Arnoldi has assumed the role of Managing Partner, "Y-Drive". "This announcement marks a very exciting time in this company's history. In Bill and Geoff, we have added a wealth of experience and insight which will be fundamental in our development as an industry leader," says Bitove. Click here for full story >>

Vancouver:
The Playhouse Theatre Company won nine awards at the 22nd Annual Jessie Richardson Theatre Awards, held Monday, June 14 at the Commodore Ballroom. Equus led the way with a total of 6 awards, including Outstanding Production - Large Theatre, Outstanding Direction - Large Theatre (Glynis Leyshon) and Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role (Bill Dow). In addition, Hello, Dolly! scooped 3 awards. Click here for full story >>

Ottawa:
Party Time Rentals in Ottawa has been awarded the 2004 Consumer's Choice Award for best "Party Equipment Rental" company in Ottawa-Gatineau. Winners were chosen through an independent and objective survey conducted in February by one of the worlds' largest and most respected market research firms. Interviews were conducted with over 650 consumers, and over 700 top ranking managers of small & medium size businesses. www.partytimerental.ca

Calgary:
Arlene Dickinson, President and owner of Venture Communications Ltd. in Calgary announces the appointment of Jim Button to the position of Public Relations and Event Marketing Community Lead. Button, a founding partner of The Event Group, has extensive experience in....click here for full story >>

Toronto:
Eclectic Events International has been honored for their work with Esprit nominations in the categories of Corporate Event Planning and Social Event Planning. The Esprit Awards are awarded annually at ISES Eventworld - A Conference for Professional Development. The Esprit Awards will be presented on August 15, 2004 at Eventworld in Chicago, Illinois.

Calgary:
Award winning Calgary event management company, e=mc² event management, has announced it is expanding its services to include destination management, conference services and incentive travel. Click here for full story >>

Toronto:
Dotcom Your Event welcomes Carole May to the DotCom Your Event team. Carole resides in Dallas, Texas and she will be managing the US Sales Division of the Event Wizard now in its 4th Edition. Carole brings over 20 years of related experience to DotCom Your Event as an event and conference Planner for various North American Event and Incentive houses.






CSEME Conference dates announced for 2005
After the most successful season in 7 years, Canadian Event Perspective Magazine is excited to announce dates for the 2005 CEP Special Events & Meetings Expos across Canada.

  • CSEME Vancouver
    March 14-15, 2005
    Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre

  • CSEME Toronto
    March 29-31, 2005
    Metro Toronto Convention Centre

  • CEIA (Star Awards) Gala
    April 1, 2005
    Toronto, Venue TBA

  • Event Sensations 2005 Seattle
    April 19-20, 2005
    Meydenbauer Center, Bellevue

  • CSEME Calgary
    April 2005, date tbd

  • CSEME Halifax
    May 2005, date tbd

The CEP Special Events & Meetings Expo 2005 - Event Sensations promises to continue its success as the most interactive event conference in the country. With over 67 seminars nationwide, workshops, international speakers and extravagant social events, this is the most exciting and interactive industry event in Canada. CSEME provides the tools, contacts and information to help you take your events to the next level. Registration opens August 15th for all 2005 CSEME events.

Check out www.canadianspecialevents.com.




Decor:


Bold Color
Yes it's back to bold, bright, luminescent color palettes. Instead of filling in with props and sets, use color as your décor. Block huge sections of walls and drape with brilliant hues, solid linens in separate sections, and minimal items around the room. Mask the bar in lime green fabric, wash the walls in deep purple hues, dress tables in blocks of lime and white sherbert linens, no bows on chairs, massive hydrangeas dyed to match. Think it sounds strange? It's amazing. For a more subtle look but with just as much impact, try deep blue, black and sand. It's a stunning look!

Speaker:


Randy Park
Randy Park helps executives and managers boost thinking throughout their organization by addressing common thinking barriers: people aren't encouraged to think, allowed to think, or they don't know how. Randy's book "Thinking for Results" is now available at Chapters, Indigo, and other bookstores across Canada. Click www.randypark.com/prod.htm for more. Randy works with executives and managers to develop the thinking skills of their people and boost the performance of their organizations.

Music:


The Dino Martinis
With the spirit of Jack Kerouac, the schtick of Louis Prima, and the spunk of Jerry Lee Lewis, The Dino Martinis are Canada’s premiere jump blues band. Throw them in a blues club, a jazz room, a swing stage, or a rock gig, and the group feels right at home. A good thing too, because after years of trying to nail their sound to the latest fad, the media has finally thrown up its arms and accepted The Dino Martinis as something that stands alone. The band celebrating 10 years together in 2004, continues to enjoy great success nationally and internationally...... more >>

Product:


eventSherpa™
Semaview's new eventSherpa™ is the first Windows / PC solution enabling anyone to communicate events on the web and direct to the desktop. eventSherpa is a calendar application and hosted service that allows individuals, organizations, groups or teams to easily organize, instantly network and securely share their schedules. www.eventsherpa.com

Catering:


Eatertainment
For the past twenty years, Eatertainment has brought Toronto innovative restaurant concepts that have stood the test of time and has built its catering services into one of the city's best. The success of Eatertainments catering endeavours has led to the recent launch of Eatertainment Special Events, an event management and catering company dedicated to developing exceptional event experiences. For every event, Eatertainment offers a recipe for success. Combine excellent food with outstanding service and your guests will remember the event forever. Check out Eatertainment at www.eatertainment.com.

Entertainer:


The Norma McKnight Show
The Norma McKnight Show is one of the top requested acts for custom corporate presentations in Western Canada. In a field dominated by male performers, Norma McKnight has emerged as one of the top female comedy-ventriloquists of her generation. Norma was privileged to be a writer and puppeteer on the late Shari Lewis' Emmy award winning television program and has appeared on the Comedy Network's "Adventures in Comedy". A Vancouver resident, Norma and her hilarious characters have astounded audiences worldwide aboard cruise ships, at festivals, casinos, theatres, comedy clubs and corporate special events. Norma McKnight was nominated "Entertainer of the Year" for the 2002 Canadian Event Industry Association. Contact: froglaff@istar.ca

Supplier:


Band World
Combine creativity, imagination, and professional skills and you have total satisfaction found in the team, equipment, and services of Band World.

Incorporated in 1988, Band World has proven itself as a major force in the entertainment industry. Band World's President, Bob Spencer, is a former band leader and touring artist who continues to produce variety shows world wide. He and his staff have used this knowledge and experience to guide the company to it's present status as one of Canada's leading production facilities. Utilizing the best in current technology, skilled technical staff and a wide range of related production services allows Band World to offer its clients all of the necessary production elements for a successful show under one roof. From rigging and flying systems, staging trucking and transport to technical support staff, av and multimedia to full show production, Band World is your answer to exceptional flawless events and shows. www.bandworld.com.

Venue:


Mississauga Convention Centre
The Mississauga Convention Centre caters to events both in the corporate and social markets. Since their opening in September of 1999 they have hosted hundreds of high profile meetings, galas and conventions. Located in Mississauga this world class facility is only 15 minutes away from downtown Toronto and near numerous major hotels. The beautiful facility encompasses 53,000 square feet. This includes 30,000 square feet of open floor space with no obstructions. There are a total of 7 salons that can be arranged to meet your needs. From the elegant Louis XVI-style furnishings to gourmet French service complete with white glove service, the Mississauga Convention Centre is 100% focused on making sure that each guest has a truly memorable experience. www.mississaugaconvention.com.

Hotel:


The Fairmont Banff Springs
Few hotels in the world can rival the majesty, hospitality and scenery of The Fairmont Banff Springs. Its unique blend of opulence and seclusion has been a symbol of Rocky Mountain magnificence for more than a century. Styled after a Scottish baronial castle, The Fairmont Banff Springs offers stunning vistas, championship golf courses, unparalleled skiing, classic cuisine and Willow Stream, a world class European-style spa. Experience timeless beauty and luxurious comfort in a pristine wilderness. www.fairmont.com

Resort:


Lake Okanagan Resort
The best things in life are here, a Western Canadian resort for all seasons nestled on the shores of Okanagan Lake, British Columbia. Discover Lake Okanagan Resort for your next meeting or special event. Situated in the heart of the Okanagan Valley surrounded by natural beauty and away from the distractions of the city and the office. The resort offers superb accommodations from cozy studios to spacious one-bedroom suites, and three bedroom condos and chalets all facing Okanagan Lake. On-site dining is sure to please your clients with culinary specialties designed by their award-winning chef. A picture perfect setting for your next business retreat. Lake Okanagan Resort's on-site team of meeting planning experts are dedicated to excellence, detail, and service. The only thing they overlook is the lake! www.lakeokanagan.com












ISES Toronto Schmoozefest a Smashing Success


Submitted to CEP by Odette Spitzer

I recently attended the ISES Schmooze Fest and found it to be a thoroughly worthwhile event. The event was fashioned by installing suppliers at different tables, while attendees were then free to move from table to table, gathering information. One was given only a few minutes at each table before having to rotate at the sound of a bell. I imagine a bit like speed dating but with better odds of finding a match.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL STORY >>



CSES BC Chapter welcomes the Vancouver Event Industry to Storyeum


Submitted by Mardi Foster Walker

The June 23rd meeting of the Canadian Special Events Society was held at Storyeum, the new attraction and venue in Gastown, and was attended by over 100 CSES members and guests. CSES was given the VIP tour and complete historical experience ending with a fantastic buffet provided by CSES member Culinary Capers Catering, who have been awarded the exclusive catering rights for the facility. Thanks to Graeme Drew, Kathleen Harvey, Kris Johnson, and Riki Lewald of Storyeum for hosting us and helping to organize a great CSES event and special thanks to Debra Lykkemark for the fantastic food and great presentation. Those interested in booking special events at Storyeum should contact Kris Johnson at 604-687-8142 or e-mail kris@storyeum.com. Photos by Darren Dreger



Party at the Paramount

Submitted by Carrie Turcotte

For the past 3 years, Peter Eliopoulos, Creative Director of byPeterandPauls.com, has had a dream. That vision came alive on Wednesday, June 9th at the Grand Opening of his creation "Paramount". From start to finish, there was nothing that Peter didn't have a say in. From the underground tunnel to the latest technology with live-eye cameras monitors and state of the art structure audio & visual, this man definitely has a dream to be proud of....

Through out the night, there was entertainment on stage and on both balconies, amazing food was served at numerous stations and the space was filled with people having loads of fun. The night was without doubt a huge success. With over 5000 people in attendance from 6:00pm to 11:00pm the vibe was undoubtedly there.This 63,000 sq. ft. event venue has 25ft ceilings, VIP suites, approximately 500 intelligent table spot lights, directional sound, fog machines built right into the dance floor......

CLICK HERE FOR FULL STORY >>


Toronto Special Events and the Carlu Celebrate in Style

Submitted by Cynthia Willemsen, The Siren Group

From 26 years in shuttered and abandoned silence, to one glorious year of memorable celebrations, The Carlu - Toronto's renowned special events venue and best example of recent heritage restoration - has forever changed the social, corporate and cultural landscape of Canada's most thriving metropolis. Designed by French architect, Jacques Carlu in the Art Moderne style, the former Eaton's College Park has achieved worldwide recognition for its landmark restoration. To mark its first year of success, The Carlu partnered with TSEvents - celebrating their own ten years....

CLICK HERE FOR FULL STORY >>

The Carlu and TSEvents would like to extend their "Thanks 2" the following suppliers who participated in the success of our celebration:










Canadian Event Perspective Magazine is now accepting speaker proposals for the 2005 CSEME show season. Please email a seminar summary of 250 words or less including expense estimate and audio visual/prop requirements to stacy@canadianspecialevents.com by July 25th.

Proposals may be for Keynotes, breakout and specialty workshops. Thank you to everyone who submits, only those short listed will be contacted. CSEME 05 takes place in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Halifax and Seattle.







Fairmont Algonquin
The Fairmont Algonquin is offering guests the chance to travel back in time, exactly 400 years, to the birthplace of permanent French settlement in North America.

Before the settlement of New York City (1661) or Boston (1629) or even Plymouth Rock (1620) there was Ste Croix Island in 1604. The Sail Ste. Croix package is one of the ways that The Fairmont Algonquin is celebrating this summer’s historic event.....

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS >>


Wellspring House
The Wellspring House has opened its doors for your next event or gathering.

Nestled in a quiet, woodland area near White Rock, British Columbia, Wellspring House is a luxurious, self-contained facility that offers an ideal setting for retreats, workshops, staff getaways, family celebrations…

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS >>


Four Seasons Resort Whistler
Whistler's newest hotel property is a luxurious 242-room mountain residence located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain - close to everything, but removed enough to provide a truly relaxing meeting environment. Perfect for small to medium sized meetings, incentive groups, social events and weddings, Four Seasons Resort Whistler allows groups to enjoy the very best of this year-round mountain.


Hilton Canada
Hilton Canada introduces the Hilton Meeting Planner Program

Hilton Canada, in response to meetings research and feedback from planners on what makes their jobs easier and influences their purchasing decisions, has launched the Hilton Meeting Planner Program. With a reputation for exceptional meeting facilities and service, Hilton Hotels can now deliver to meeting planners a consistent meetings experience at 13 locations across Canada.

The Hilton Meeting Planner Program components include... CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS >>













Event and Party Planning Just Got A Lot Easier!

Canadian Event Perspective has linked up with PlanningEvents.com to bring you the new "CEP Online Guide & Tools" - Canada's #1 source for event planning tools and resources!

Now available at www.canadianspecialevents.com, event planners have access to a variety of interactive services including an extensive list of planning tools, a 1000-member National Supplier Directory, free "request for quote" services, and online event registrations - all in the effort to assist planners with organizing events and parties of all sizes and themes.

"Whether you're planning an event for the first time or you're an experienced planner, the new Online Guide provides all the tools you'll need, without the headaches!" said Dale Iannuzzi, PlanningEvents.com's President.

"The new CEP Online Guide & Tools is an exciting edition to the CEP family and with PlanningEvents powering the sections, it's set to bring you a fabulous resourceful industry toolbox" said Stacy Wyatt, editor of CEP Magazine. Event industry suppliers can now utilize a variety of online marketing tools to effectively promote their business, share their expertise and interact with potential customers. To help suppliers generate leads and close deals, the CEP Online Guide & Tools offers cost-effective online advertising solutions to showcase their products and services to a highly targeted audience of planners.





Seattle raves about the first Event Sensations 2004 - Exhibitors and Delegates declare the event a hit!

From Los Angeles Producers David Merrell and Cindy Weidenheft's amazing seminar to the phenomenal presentation by Calgary's e=mc² Executive Producers, Ken Christopherson CSEC, CSEM and Jocelyn Flanagan CSEC, CSEM - the level of education was outstanding and the audience was very happy with the turnout.

It was the first year for Event Sensations in the Seattle market and although the trade show was smaller than the Canadian events, the energy was enormous and this was really a unique experience for the Pacific Northwest market. Event Partners, Northwest Meetings and Events Magazine, Seahawks Stadium and a host of ISES members helped support the event and make it a great success. For Canadian suppliers looking south of the border for new business, take a look at Event Sensations Seattle 2005, taking place April 19-20 2005. It can open a whole new world of event contacts.









Please update your records with new contact information for the following companies:

Yvan Jérôme Illimité
Les productions d'événements YVAN JÉRÔME ILLIMITÉ "THE UNLIMITED…" in Montreal has a new email address:
yvanjeromeillimite@videotron.ca

Décor & More Inc. Has Moved
Their new address is:
1171 Invicta Drive
Oakville, Ontario
L6H-4M1

Foster Walker Moving
Foster Walker Gifts of Distinction will be moving to a new showroom and offices effective August 16, 2004. Their new address will be:

Suite 310 - 1090 West Pender Street,
Vancouver, BC V6E 2N7
Phone: 604-681-2456
Fax: 604-681-2003
e-mail: info@fosterwalkergifts.com
Web site: www.fosterwalkergifts.com

3L Productions is moving
As of June 1st, 2004 our new address will be:
24 The East Mall, Unit # 1,
Toronto, Ontario M8W 4W5
Tel: 416-259-8835
Fax: 416-259-4180
Toll free number is unchanged: 1-800-567-7654

Destination Winnipeg Inc.
300, 259 Portage Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3B 2A9
Tel: 204.954.1990
Fax: 204.942.4043
Email: ginette@destinationwinnipeg.ca
www.destinationwinnipeg.ca

Comedy in Motion
Comedy in Motion with Bob Cates has moved and all contact info has changed:

519-653-9866 (1-877 number is no longer working due to conflicts with Comedy Central)
comedyinmotion@mailblocks.com
30 Candle Cres., Kitchener,
Ontario, Canada N2P 2K7