BIZBASH recently published an article in their May/June 2010 issue called “Event & Meeting Technology,” a list of tools and trends to help planners do a better job. We at Penta Events have narrowed their choices down to the top 5 we believe to be the most helpful. Enjoy! LINK TO BIZBASH

• The IPAD: 2010’s most popular technological device is undoubtedly the IPAD. Event planners need this new and savvy computer because with it, they can deliver presentations just about anywhere without having to carry around their portable computers. With tons of event-specific applications, this is the perfect device to carry with you on-site and be prepared for anything! For information on where to purchase your IPAD visit: www.apple.com.

• Event Apps for Smartphones: In the event community, applications become important because content about any event can be delivered straight to the user’s mobile device. FollowMe, QuickMobile and My Mobile Meetings are all accommodating event planning industries with their development of apps that show floor maps of the venue, registration forms and schedules of each event. There are so many apps to discover, see our blog to see the ones we recommend for you!  

• Twitter: Every event planner needs to be “tweeting”. With over 100 million users, your message is sure to get across. There is no easier or faster way to connect to as many people about an event. All it takes is a few seconds of your time to tweet-whether for promotion or feedback. Please follow us on twitter @ PentaEvents and PentaCares.

• Google Wave: The newest addition to the Google functions is one that allows users to communicate and work together, with text, photos, videos, maps and much more. There is also a polling function that allows users to vote on all aspects of the event posted; from the date of the event to the venue and catering options. For more information on how to sign up for Google Wave, visit: www.wave.google.com.

• Convenient Videoconferencing: This is not just your typical iChat. Videoconferencing has expanded and companies such as Cisco have partnered with Marriott and Starwood Hotels to offer videoconferencing suites at low hourly rates. These videoconferences allow groups of as many as 20 people to sync with co-workers in affiliated hotels in the U.S and in some international ones. For more information on videoconferencing visit: www.cisco.com

So you want to set up the ultimate New York City bar crawl with your friends? Let Penta give you some helpful tips and great NYC locations to get you started and set you up for a night of non-stop fun and excitement!

It’s important you remember the essentials to take with you before you embark on your adventure!

• Valid ID – This is #1 to remember to take. It’s never more frustrating when a group of friends go out and someone forgets their ID. No ID = No Entrance, simple as that!

• Metro Card – New York City blocks are long, so it might be in your best interest to hop on a subway in between your bar destinations.

• Emergency cab cash- At the end of the night, it’s probably a smart idea to hail a cab to take you home. Place $20 in your back pocket to make sure that you have enough cash remaining to safely get to your final stop for the night.

• Advil – We all have different tolerance levels when it comes to alcohol. Taking one Advil an hour before your first drink will make you feel a whole lot better in the morning.

• Keys – You’re going to need your keys if you want to enjoy the comfort of your own bed after a long night out…be sure to keep them in a safe place so you don’t risk losing them.

• Comfortable shoes – Dressing up is nice but, for a bar crawl, comfortable shoes are highly recommended. Your bound to be doing a fair amount of walking and your feet will thank you in the morning.

• Fully charged cell phone – Bars tend to be twice as crowded on St. Patrick’s Day and it can be difficult to keep track of your friends. Make sure you have a fully charged phone before leaving your apartment so that you can stay in touch with your friends if you get separated.

• Camera – Pictures are worth a thousand words, so be sure to bring a camera with you to capture the memories of the evening.

• Designated Dave – Why do you need a “Designated Dave” if you’re not driving, you may ask? In case you exceed your comfortable tolerance level, it is always a good idea to make sure you have at least one friend who will look out for you and your belongings.

Now that you have some of the essentials down, here are a few easy tips for planning your bar crawl.

Step 1: Choose your starting location
Figure out where and at what time you and your friends will meet up to begin the bar crawl. It’s always a good idea to start at a restaurant so that you make sure you eat something before you start drinking.

Step 2: Map it out
Once you have chosen your origin destination, determine your end point and the bars in the middle that you want to make a stop at. Having each address and even walking directions between your stops is a good idea.

Step 3: Call the bars you have selected
If you tell them you are doing a bar crawl, they may be willing to join in your event by offering drink specials.

Step 4: Have fun
And drink safely and responsibly of course!

You can research some great bars to include for your bar crawl on www.murphguide.com!

At Penta, we agree that an inexpensive and fun event is always a few creative ideas away. We have compiled several ways to plan a great event for friends and family that won’t break the bank.

• Potluck and BYOB: Have your guests bring a food item or beverage (alcoholic or not) large enough to share with others. Set up a buffet and allow everyone to get a taste of everything.  Your guests will also get a chance to show off their cooking skills.
• Theme Parties: A theme can be displayed in the selection of décor, food, drink and music.  Some theme ideas:
  • Around the World Party: Guests choose a country and bring items based on that specific culture. Once set up, label each with the country and name of the dish or specialty drink. You can serve a hearty Hungarian Goulash Soup beside an all American Apple Pie.
  • Dessert Decorating Party: Decorating cookies is not just for children.  Cookies are easy to make in any shape or size.  Each guest can then decorate the dessert to match their personality.
  • Wine and Cheese Party: Guests bring a bottle of their favorite wine and accompanying cheese.  It’s a perfect way to indulge in a taste test.
  • Dress Up: Plan an event where guests have to dress up.  For example, host a Mad Men themed party where guests dress in a 1960s look.
  • Color Theme: Host a party based on a color.  You can purchase    inexpensive colored light bulbs to replace throughout your home and use food coloring to color your snacks and drinks.
• Soup Night: Perfect for the cold season. Almost everyone likes soup and everyone has their favorite. Think beyond cream of tomato and chicken noodle and get creative.  Make a large pot of soup to enjoy by a fire or with a great movie with guests.
• Use A Public Location: NYC has many beautiful parks – Central Park, Bryant Park and the often forgotten Prospect Park (designed by the creator of Central Park). Each has unique features, from “Great Lawns” to BBQ grills, and the best part is that they are free. Choose a meeting point that is easily accessible, and close to the restrooms. In certain areas, picnic benches and tables are available and sometimes you can even find a roof to provide shelter from bad weather.
• Use A Donated Location: Many office buildings have conference rooms with great views.  Ask around your group of family and friends to see if they have an available workspace that can host a classy event.

Events do not have to be expensive to be memorable.  Combine great friends, good food and a little creativity and you will have a successful and unforgettable event!