Ideas to Steal: 10 Tried and Tested Event Activations at Shepard Sandbox
September 9, 2024
From LED dance floors and AI Ping Pong to branded bar carts and immersive floral walls, event activations are a powerful way to engage attendees and create memorable experiences that are also Instagram-worthy.
At the recent corporate event hosted by Shepard Expositions, SandboxLIVE attracted 150 industry partners, speakers, customers, and prospective customers. Established in 1905 in Atlanta, the employee-owned trade show contracting company brought these activations and more to life July 15-17 at the Loews Atlanta Hotel in midtown Atlanta.
“It's all about getting creative with the spaces and resources you have,” said Shepard Vice President, Marketing & Brand Strategy Taylor Elliot. “Lean on your partners, explore new trends, and strive to offer memorable and engaging experiences for your attendees.”
We caught up with Elliot to find out more about some fantastic ideas that Shepard published on LinkedIn. Here is a recap video of SandboxLIVE, so you can see highlights of the event. Elliot shared what worked, how they executed the event activations, and how you might replicate them at your next event.
Below are 10 ideas from our conversation. If you want to know more, watch or listen to the full interview here.
1. Guess the Show Photo
One of the most popular activations was "Guess the Show Photo," inspired by the classic game, Guess Who. Shepard applied a similar concept using show photos from various events they had produced. Attendees were given clues and had to identify the correct photo. This activation was not only interactive and engaging but also cost-effective, using simple materials like foam poster board.
2. Immersive Floral Wall
To bring life and freshness into the event, Shepard created an immersive floral wall. Greenery not only set the tone but also served as a picturesque and calming moment for attendees. Pleasing visuals combined with Shepard-branded accessories created memorable photo opportunities that attendees eagerly shared, amplifying event reach and creating FOMO. Extending the brand into every aspect of the event, including down to the floral arrangements, received notable praise.
3. Branded Bar Cart
Shepard's branded bar was another hit, offering versatile and appealing beverage options. From popsicles to "poptails" (popsicles with champagne), and even ice cream and popcorn, this branded bar served multiple purposes throughout the event. A creative investment, it allowed Shepard to extend its brand presence in a fun and unique way.
4. Outdoor Experience
Capitalizing on the beautiful weather in Atlanta, Shepard utilized the terrace at the Loews Hotel to create an outdoor experience. This space provided a refreshing break for attendees who could step outside, make calls, and soak in some Vitamin D between sessions. Though the weather wasn't always perfect, the terrace was a highly appreciated feature, demonstrating how important it is to offer outdoor elements for indoor events.
5. LED Dance Floor
Shepard took creative branding to another level with an LED dance floor, a modern and engaging feature that commanded attention. The mirrored floor, glowing blue to match the brand's colors, not only served as a vibrant picture spot but also enhanced the overall atmosphere.
6. Signature Cocktails and Mocktails
The custom "Shepard Spritz," available as both a cocktail and mocktail, catered to all attendees' preferences. This inclusive approach ensured everyone could enjoy a refreshing pick-me-up—whether they chose alcohol or not. Offering signature drinks is a great way to add a personalized touch and make every guest feel included.
7. Conversation Wall
Aiming to gather insights from attendees, Shepard set up a conversation wall where participants could share their biggest challenges. Not surprisingly, budget constraints topped the list. This wall served as both an engagement tool and a valuable feedback mechanism, fostering conversation and understanding among participants.
8. AI Ping Pong
Combining play and technology, Shepard introduced an AI-powered ping pong table. The modern, sleek design of the table complemented the tech-savvy concept, where Zenus AI measured player sentiments and scores. This data was then displayed on a kiosk, making it a fun and innovative way to incorporate AI trends into the event.
9. Personalized Luggage Tags
Practical and memorable, the luggage tag activation allowed attendees to personalize their own tags using embossing techniques. The tags featured both the event branding and personal initials, serving as a lasting reminder of the event. Paired with branded AirTags, this giveaway was a functional hit among the attendees.
10. Podcast Studio
In line with their upcoming podcast launch, Shepard set up a podcast studio onsite. This secluded space, built with their standard event materials, was perfect for capturing high-quality content, including testimonials and interviews. The dedicated podcast studio was a strategic move to maximize attendee interaction and content creation opportunities.
Photos: Shepard
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.
At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
Protecting Natural Resources
MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.
Committed to Community
Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.
MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion
To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.
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