Monday Mashups: Easy AR You Can Incorporate at Your Next Event

Augmented reality isn’t a new technology. But in terms of events, it’s still in its infancy, slowly inching its way into the industry. The Pokémon Go craze of 2016 (when a high-tech version of the computer game allowed users to catch digital creatures in real-life locations) was perhaps the first time planners began to understand AR’s potential, leading them to look for methods of integrating it into their events.

The real power of AR and VR technology is to deliver experiences not possible any other way, to give people superpowers, and to show them more than meets the eye. And according to Orbis Research, the global augmented- and virtual-reality market is estimated to reach $66.68 billion by 2022, and the event industry will undoubtedly be part of its growth. But using it effectively and successfully is a process that is still developing. BizBash shares how event planners can incorporate AR using low-commitment, inexpensive practices and products.

Start with simple add-ons.
AR technology runs the gamut from simple and inexpensive to complex and pricey. However, event planners don’t have to jump into the deep end of the AR pool to get a taste of its benefits. For example, Hi-Lites are “visual-effects” glasses that transform light (stage lights, street lights, Christmas lights, fireworks, etc.) into custom shapes that the wearer can see—think hearts, smiley faces, or even company logos. They don’t require any wires or circuits and the frames are fully customizable and brandable.

Avoid reinventing the wheel. 
If event planners are looking for a more complex AR activation, such as one involving multiple technologies like GPS, Bluetooth beacons, or Bitcoin wallets, they can build a platform internally (if they have the resources) or partner with an augmented-reality developer, both of which can be very expensive options, especially for a one-time event.

But Apple's AR development platform ARKit may overcome those high costs and do some of the heavy lifting when it comes to the technology, including creating AR-enhanced navigation for trade show floors and virtual display banners.

Tie the tech to social media. 
By adding in AR, planners are able to bring an event and its elements to life—even popsicles. FrutaPOP, a company that produces all-natural, alcohol-infused ice pops, recently introduced its own AR experience using the product’s packaging. Consumers who download the company’s free mobile app are able to activate augmented-reality displays by scanning the FrutaPOP labels. In addition to initiating AR, the Instagram-integrated app also includes branded filters (such as picture frames) that can be superimposed onto an image along with a hashtag and then shared to social media.

For example, at a performance by country music singer Chase Bryant, held at Niko’s Red Mill Tavern in Woodstock, Illinois, in June, concertgoers were able to scan the Tito’s Vodka- and Patrón-flavored pops to activate the augmented-reality visuals, as well as add in comments and post the videos to social media.

The animated pops also made an appearance at M.P.I. New Jersey’s annual golf tournament, which was held in June at the Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, New Jersey.

The future is here and it's a no brainer! Consider incorporating AR and devour the details of a whole new world at your next event!

4th Annual South Boston Holiday Market Weekend is Here

New England Open Markets is thrilled to announce the 4th Annual South Boston Holiday Market is finally here again! A Boston holiday tradition, this amazing two-day event brings together the best of New England under one roof at the Innovation and Design Building in South Boston. Over 120 of the region’s top independent artists, artisans, designers and food makers will be selling their unique handmade goods. Back for it's 4th year, the South Boston Holiday Market is the perfect one-stop-shop for personalized, handmade gifts for friends and family alike.

Join us this Saturday, December 15th and Sunday, December 16th from 11AM - 6PM to shop 'til you drop at the Innovation and Design Building in South Boston. Conveniently located along the MBTA Silver Line route, just minutes from South Station. The complex also houses the Boston Design Center, New England’s premier resource for design professionals, with showrooms featuring over 1,200 luxury product lines of fabric, furniture, lighting, antiques, fine art, wall and floor coverings, and kitchen and bath design and contract services.

And for your dining pleasure the Holiday Market will have 4 Container Restaurants serving up yummy gourmet eats. What's a container restaurant? It's only the coolest new concept... think Food Trucks, minus the wheels!

Support local makers and devour the details of your holiday shopping this weekend at the 4th Annual South Boston Holiday Market. See you there!

Wedding Wednesdays: Catering Alternatives You'll Devour

Serving a traditional, plated meal at your wedding reception is lovely, especially for a very formal affair. But if a sit-down dinner isn't quite your style or just out of your price range (remember, sit-down dinner includes charges for linens, chairs, place settings and menus in addition to the food), you'll be happy to hear that it's far from the only catering option. Seated dinner alternatives are no longer considered for only casual or low-budget weddings. Here are some creative suggestions from The Knot to curb catering costs while impressing and satisfying every hungry guest!

Cocktail style doesn't have to mean casual.
Planning a formal fete but can't swing a sit-down dinner? A perfect, unexpected alternative is a cocktail-style reception. Consider setting up chef-attended food stations that are both delicious and engaging, or have servers pass tapas-style entrées that are small enough to nosh on while mingling, but still fully satisfying (or offer both options at once).

Food trucks are the fun way to feast.
Having a food truck or two pull up to your reception is an awesome catering trend that allows for a relaxed and free-flowing vibe. Just keep in mind that guests won't get fed quite as quickly or simultaneously. Although if you're anticipating a more grazing-style party, this probably won't be too much of an issue.

Seating and service are key.
A huge benefit to forgoing a seated dinner is that guests have the freedom to mingle and dance without being tethered to their assigned chairs. Rather than formal tables, you can utilize high-top tables and lounge-style seating to give the room a better flow and allow guests to stay on the dance floor even during dinner. And remember: Great service is the key to a seamless, first-rate event. The level of service and the décor around you can make even the most casual station setup seem more formal. The more guests are taken care of and waited on, the more polished it will feel.

Make your menu personal.
No matter what catering style you choose, work with the caterers and on-site staff to select a menu that fits your wedding style and you as a couple. Have cuisines that nod to your hometown, favorite city or ethnic background. If you're going for a more relaxed party vibe, pass pizza slices, popcorn or tacos.

In any case, it will always be a feast over famine with whatever option you choose! From food trucks to hometown cuisine, devour the details of the perfect catering alternative to make your reception dreams come true.