Brella Productions

Last week, Brella team members from all over the U.S. gathered at our Evanston HQ. Over the course of two days, we caught up on each other’s lives, celebrated personal and team wins, and took an in-depth look at what the future holds. Getting to reconnect, face-to-face, with our colleagues was a treat and a reminder of how lucky we are to work with such interesting and gifted people.

#CorporateEvents are all about reaching out and connecting with people. Michael Collier, head of Brella’s video department, notes that video is a fantastic way to expand and broaden your audience.

Brella loves a good story, which is why we are documenting Love Energy’s massive solar install at the Skokie Park District’s Weber Leisure Center. As the trucks arrive to kick off this grand undertaking, we’ll be sharing how Robert Love and his team are helping this local municipality reduce their carbon footprint and go green. More updates to come on this amazing eco-friendly project.

Brella’s Senior Video Production Manager, Michael Collier, has some words of wisdom for #EventProfs looking to generate anticipation and enthusiasm for upcoming #CorporateEvents.

What’s the fastest way for #EventProfs to help their presenters create a rapport with their audience? Demonstrate the value of nonverbal communication. Notice the relaxed posture Brella Event Department Manager @JoshuaStroud shows here. His open hand and subtle smile lets folks know that he is comfortable and receptive, putting them at ease and inviting them to engage fully with what he has to say.

Do you have a video strategy for your next #CorporateEvent? From capturing the energy and excitement of an in-person presentation for virtual attendees to using the footage for post-event messaging, you need a vision, a plan, and a skilled event production team to execute. Without it, you’re missing out on an opportunity to utilize a crucial marketing element.

How can #EventProfs help their speakers engage with their audience? A bit of coaching on clear and consistent body language goes a long way towards creating a strong stage presence. Brella Event Department Manager Joshua Stroud models good fundamentals for presenters. His firm, grounded stance establishes authority and confidence. His hands, clasped near the heart, project authenticity and conviction. These elements combine in a powerful package that says “You want to hear what I have to say”.

What can you do to keep a #CorporateEvents audience focused and on-task during a presentation? Use the configuration of the space itself to throw focus to the presenter. In this case, we’ve used the color and pattern of the ceiling lights to drive the audience’s attention to the stage. The warm oranges create an inviting atmosphere and build anticipation as they take their seats. The forward thrust of the layout keeps all eyes on the stage as the presentation starts.

How do you establish mood and tone for presentations at your #CorporateEvents? Lighting is a great place to start. Colored filters and gels can elicit visceral emotional responses that set just the right vibe before your presenters take the stage. Here, we’ve created a sense of curiosity and intrigue in a pretty standard hotel ballroom using cool blues and purples. The contrasting warmth of the oranges at the front naturally draws people in, getting them on board for what they are about to see. The result: an audience that feels welcome and engaged from the moment they walk through the door.

Amid the barbecues and fireworks, celebrating freedom and democracy is what really matters. We hope you all had a happy and safe Independence Day!