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We caught up with one of our newest vendors, Flash Photo Booth Events, to discuss their experience with their last gig through Vendorspace. They were hired for an exclusive private event with Liquid I.V. during Super Bowl LVI Weekend in California! Learn more about their journey in events and their experience working with our team below:

1. What got you into running your own photobooth event service?

I’ve worked in catering for the last 12 years back home in Florida and over the years I noticed photo booths kept getting more and more popular. They get such amazing crowd engagement while also capturing memories people will cherish for a lifetime. After chatting with a few of the operators, I realized they can also be very profitable. I had always wanted to start my own business as an event vendor and owning a photo booth seemed just the perfect place to start.

2. How has your experience getting discovered by and getting booked with Vendorspace?

Stephanie, from Vendorspace reached out to me on Instagram for a very exciting event on Superbowl weekend. Not only did she link me with the client, Liquid I.V., but she worked very hard alongside me to make sure all the details came together for the client’s “Home Coming” theme photo booth. She even made these amazing custom Home Coming King and Queen photo booth props!

3. What are you most excited about for events for the rest of 2022 and beyond?

Being new to the Los Angels area, I’m most excited about getting to learn more and more about the market and building my contacts. The area is home to so many motivated and creative people like Stephaine and the folks at Vendorspace! Plus it’s just an exciting time to be in the event industry no matter where you are no that the world is ready to start celebrating again. 

Check out their profile to see how you can get this photo booth activation for your next event: Flash Photo Booth Events LA

If you’re a vendor interested in booking more gigs, sign up for a free account to be considered for upcoming events at vendorspace.co.

When it comes to planning an event, we certainly know a thing or two.  Giving attention to detail, setting things apart with flair and without a doubt, the importance of vendors.  The truth is, that without support, it would be nearly impossible to pull off a successful event.  For those of you who are just starting out, or for those of you who are always looking for new tools, here are a few reminders to keep in mind when planning your event and some vendors that might come in handy along the way.

1. The Overall Plan

Before you pick up the phone, send an email or ask the neighbor to borrow a gadget, it is important to get the basics of your events identified.  

Objective: Understanding the why behind the event allows you to keep things focused and streamlined, especially when you need to start making decisions based on budget, complexity and necessity.  Create a short one sentence phrase that describes the reason for your event.  Make this your mantra when you are in a tough situation and oftentimes it will help you recognize what is most important.

Budget: It is exactly what it sounds like.  In order to keep stress down and understand how much you have to spend, it is important not only to identify your overall budget but as many estimated details as possible.  This helps you inform vendors, control your spending and wrap your project quickly.

We like to approach our budgets like a story, creating categories for consideration and then identifying line items within each.  

Don’t worry if things change along the way; this guardrail will always shift and change.

*At Vendorspace we are here for all of your planning needs.  Make sure to check out the tools and templates section of your profile for access to useful tools that will give you a head start

2. The Style

Now that you know what you are looking for, it is time to make your event uniquely yours. Check out these big bucket items and remember, there is no wrong place to start and refinement will always come naturally!  Cast that net and see what you catch in your planning.

The Venue: Keep an open mind when it comes to your venue.  Oftentimes this will be a larger piece of your budget but asking the right questions can also wind up saving you time and money!  As you call around and discover your options, ask what the venue comes with.  Do they have a sound system, lighting, tables and chairs?  Do they come with the package?  Can you bring in your own and shave off some cost?  It’s always good to ask these questions up front, this way when you book your venue, you will also know what other required items might get checked off the list.

The Floor Plan: Consider drawing out the available spaces for your event.  Think about the guest flow from entrance to restroom and everything in between.  Place your tables and chairs, entertainment and catering considerations into the space so that you are prepared when things come together onsite.  If you are building something more complex, think about hiring an event consultant to help you build a scaled version of your event.  This will let you know how many things you can fit into the space and ensure the plan comes together.

The Theme: Another way to save time and bring together your event is to choose a theme.  This can be as simple as choosing some principle colors, fonts and overall decor or can be as extravagant as a party from Outer Space or themed after your child’s favorite Netflix characters.

The theme is important to get up front because it will help guide you from invite to delivery.  Knowing that time is money, a theme will also keep you focused and streamlined when you enter into shops and discussions with vendors.

Electronic Expressions: The revolution of technology allows us to create much greater impact with less effort.  As you are building your events, think about the power of storytelling through digital screens/tvs, LED lighting, lasers and fog machines and projectors.  The clean up is easy, the freedom to showcase more with less is powerful and it can often fill open space with entertainment.  Just keep in mind that going digital requires a bit of planning so keep a jump drive handy, get your digital dimensions and get the content ready as early as you can.

3. The Main Event

We just love to bring it all together!  After all of the planning, getting everyone and everything in place is where all of the hard work starts to pay off.  As a general rule, inviting your vendors to the space or to a pre-event meeting where you cover off on the plan is a great way to ensure that they know the basics.  Think through everything from where they will park to unload, park during the event and set themselves up.  The more information you can share ahead of time, the easier your event build will be.

The Build Out: Try to think about what is most important first.  In order to set your tables for example, you will need your tables and tablecloths to arrive and be put into position.  It is likely that all of your deliveries and pickups will be happening through the same “doors” so when you ask vendors to arrive, give them a little cushion for load in so that they aren’t stepping on each other’s toes.

Catering: Oftentimes catering takes up more space “out of sight” than in front of your guests.  Make sure to understand what they need to succeed ahead of time so that you can fill any gaps and prepare the space for their arrival to keep things smooth.  

Entertainment: Whatever method of entertainment you bring in, make sure to have enough time before your guests arrive to get things set and checked.  This may require talent to be onsite an hour or more before your event starts.  Keep this in mind when you are discussing your expectations and agreements with vendors.  If it’s a live band for example, you will want to understand how much space and power they need.  What they are bringing and what they expect you to provide.  You will want to be sure to do a sound check and get things set at least 30 minutes before your event starts.  For playlists or simpler entertainment, make sure to get everything tested and running so that guests can experience the vibe at the right time in the right way/.

Interactive: This day and age there are no shortage of interactive options for events.  From what we have seen the most popular and easy to integrate is the photo booth.  WIth great flexibility built into most packages, you have the freedom to choose photo frames, green screen backgrounds and props to take a small footprint, turnkey set up and make it exclusively yours.  If you are planning a family event, consider bringing in games to play or elements that last like face painting or sand sculptures.  Other fun interactive elements could include characicatures, paint by number murals, or DIY arts and crafts stations.

*We have many great entertainment, catering and unique event options on Vendorspace!  Make sure to explore our options, add your services and review your past bookings!

4. Wrapping it Up

As much as we would love for the event to be over when the doors close, that just isn’t the reality.  Tying the knot at the end of your event will ensure that you are able to close the book and move on to the next adventure with a clean slate.

Giving Thanks: Never underestimate the power of thank you.  Event life is stressful and oftentimes requires us to sacrifice evening and weekend hours, sleep and sanity.  Saying thank you to those who have come together to make the magic happen generates great energy and leaves you in a perfect position to collaborate with the same vendors for future events.

Making Payments: Getting rid of that money you had allocated to your event is the best way to get your event wrapped.  Be sure that your vendors know how payment is coming and confirm that they have received payment.  If you have an agreement for installments or delayed payments, make sure to mark your calendar with reminders on due dates to ensure you check it off your list.  

Using resources and tools when planning your event has never been easier.  At Vendorspace we want to make your event a less-stressful experience by providing you with great solutions, vendor services and planning tools.  The next time you are planning an event, list your needs for free, explore our platform for inspiration and let us know if there is anything that we can do to bring your amazing event to life!  

Happy Planning!

Have you ever seen art come to life? Well that’s what Beyond the Monet is creating for select cities around the US. This interactive art exhibit is creatively enhanced with vendors that make this an unforgettable experience. Here’s the official description below:

Beyond the Monet is an immersive, captivating experience showcasing the brushstrokes of Monet’s artwork as it comes to life around you. In the exhibit, guests can become one with painting as projections of Monet’s work swirl around them. The beauty of the artwork is enhanced through sound effects and scenography, which will awaken not only the senses, but the mind. Beyond the Monet is an audio-visual journey through impressionism and gives a new experience for the artwork we all know.  There are over 400 artworks using cutting-edge projection technology, with 4 trillion content pixels, which allows guests to become one with Monet’s work. Beyond the Monet currently has exhibits in United States and Canadian cities including: Miami, St. Louis, Milwaukee, Honolulu, Ottawa, Toronto, and Calgary.

Described as a “three part multi-sensory experience that combines music, sound effects, and projection,”  Beyond the Monet brings guests on an amazing audio-visual journey. This one-of-a-kind experience is produced by Justin Paquin of Paquin Entertainment Group and gives art activation a whole new meaning. Check some of the creative ways they leveraged vendors for their experience below:

(Images and video clips sourced from @monet.miami on Instagram) 

Yoga

As if this beautiful activation wasn’t enough, they elevated the immersive experience by integrating wellness activities to entertain guests. Yoga took on a life of its own with Tifftopia & her team as they mixed moving meditation with Monet’s masterpieces dancing beautifully to a mastered symphonic core. 

AV & Production

Beyond the Monet was creatively brought to life by Mathieu St-Arnaud and Félix Fradet-Faguy, and their team at Normal Studio. They transformed the traditional concept of an “art on a wall exhibit” into a 3D immersive experience with custom installations, sets, furniture, lighting, decor, and 360 projection. Artwork is literally moving around you and there are so many “instagram-able” moments to capture!

About this specialty vendor: 

Pushing the boundaries of performing arts, entertainment, and public installations since 2009, Normal Studio believes in making life legendary. Using multimedia magic and fusing physical and technological elements to transform spaces into full-on immersive experiences, Normal Studio tells stories in new and different ways by reimagining what’s possible. The result is a unique adventure that sparks awe and wonder, making an unforgettable impact on people’s everyday lives.

Upscale Catering

When an experience can feed the mind, body and soul, you know you’re in for a treat. Attendees were treated to champagne, light beverages and hors d’oeuvres to enjoy this beautiful event. With over one million cubic feet of space, this was the icing on the top to make it one of the best immersive experiences we’ve seen!

These are just a few vendors that stood out to us. Check out Beyond the Monet at a city your new to experience it for yourself: https://beyondvangogh.com/

You can build this same experience on Vendorspace by searching for these specific services to enhance your upcoming event. Take a look around and get creative with your event planning. We can’t wait to see what you create!

If you’re planning a marketplace, trade show or expo, chances are you may need some extra help filling your booths. Even the biggest of conferences and festivals still invest time and effort into recruiting the right vendors for their big event.

There are so many factors to consider when hunting for exhibitors: Do they fit the theme of the event?  Are they the right fit for our audience? Are they offering a similar service or product to an exhibitor we already have? and so forth and so on. With so much to plan on your plate, sometimes your vendor advertising falls short and here are a few reasons why:

1. You don’t know where to find them. 

 Marketplace vendors are businesses that want to sell or share their products with your audience. They’re not sitting around on Instagram waiting for your event. You have to find them. Sometimes that means discovering them at another event, or connecting with them in a LinkedIn group. Try thinking outside the box to locate your ideal vendor. 

2. You’re sharing your event in the wrong places.

Because you don’t know where to find them, you’re probably putting your event in all the wrong places. While it makes sense to advertise your exhibitor and booth opportunities on ticket sites, that’s just what they are — ticket sites. Majority of the traffic is from attendees that want to buy a ticket to attend, not to buy a $500 booth. There may be times where you get lucky but other times, you may get frustration days before your event.

3. You’re not offering mutual benefits. 

Let’s be honest, vendors are the real life of the party and they can bring energy and excitement to any space. So start treating them as such! Is your pricing fair for vendors? Can they recoup the money spent on your booth while they’re at your event? Will they get the traffic they need to secure a potential client? Vendors invest in your event; you should invest in their experience and make sure its worth it. The right package thats valuable and affordable will never be denied!

Next time you’re in a bind looking for vendors, here are some steps you can consider: 

• Start with past events that are similar to yours. Exhibitors will be more receptive to joining your event since they’ve already done one like it.
• Think like a vendor. Search unique groups on Facebook, Meetup, LinkedIn or even local organizations that share the interests of your vendors.
• Post your event on Vendorspace. The easiest choice of them all 🙂 Our platform is designed to connect you with the right vendors in the right area that actually have interest in your event. No guessing whether they’ll be a good fit because we vet every vendor on your behalf. Just post your event and watch the bids come in.

If you have a marketplace event coming up and need some help finding vendors, sign up for a free account and start getting matched with vendors today!

As we close out Women’s History Month, we are leaving you with some inspiration from a female vendor who is killing the industry! Meet Carmen Rad, the founder and president of CR&A Custom Inc.

What began in 1993 as a two-person, custom-embroidery clothing business in downtown Los Angeles, has been transformed into a large-format, digital printing company. Today, they specialize in made-to-order advertising products like billboards, event booths, and displays that wrap around buildings. Her clients range from the Lakers and Clippers to Paramount Pictures and Microsoft Theater.

About

I am the Founder/President of CR&A Custom – a large format digital printer with over 27 years of experience producing and installing all types of signage from retractable banners to wall murals to vehicle wraps to billboards. A combination of an award winning, in-house design team and owning the latest state-of-the-art equipment available, allows us to assist customers from concept to manufacturing to installation. Our service capabilities reach all 50 U.S. states, Canada, South & Central America, plus the Caribbean.

Getting Started

While I was 4 months pregnant, and extremely frustrated by the difficulty of getting paid by my employer at the time, I self-funded the launch of CR&A out of my home. Over the last 2 decades, I have spearheaded the growth of CR&A to 43 employees and we now operate out of 34,000 square foot headquarters in the heart of LA that exceeds all City of LA environmental requirements.

Company Milestones

• From small businesses to non-profits to Fortune 500 Corporations, we have served nearly 2,000 clients.

• In 2013, CR&A exceeded $5 million in annual revenues.

• Only certified Minority/Women Owned Business Enterprise in the U.S. with large format

printing capabilities.

• First printer in the U.S. to purchase the eco-friendly HP Latex 3000 – a water based printer, with

0% emissions of HVOC’s & completely odorless inks, expanding our technology portfolio.

• CR&A featured on Fox News for success as a booming Latina-owned business despite economic

hardships.

Community Involvement

I am the former President for the LA Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO). With far-reaching clout and impact, NAWBO is a one-stop resource to propelling women business owners into greater economic, social and political spheres of power worldwide.

I also participate in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. In 2009, I was a member of the Speedo team that raised approximately $498,000, the second largest amount in California.

Carmen is definitely a female that fuels events and we’re so excited to have her company in our network! Connect with her at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmenrad/

As we closeout Black History Month, we leave you with a presentation from August Spree on “Intentional Inclusion: Creating More Opportunity for Diversity in Vendors” that first aired at The Vendor Summit 2021. 

This session is particularly important this month because it reminds planners and organizers of ways to change our thinking and be intentional about seeking out vendors and businesses owned by historically marginalized people for the purpose of building and supporting a diverse community.

Watch the full session below and check out our list of black-owned vendor recommendations. This is just a reference list to get you started but hopefully gets you thinking in the right direction. For more black-owned vendors to work with, visit our marketplace. 

Service Vendors

1. Chef David Stample
   
   David Stample is a trained chef and certified Reiki practitioner who believes in the healing power of food. Throughout his career, David has been guided by the idea of “culinary philanthropy,” his belief that food is a powerful medium through which we can take care of ourselves and others. His passion for community involvement and bringing people together around the table has informed his work as a chef and culinary instructor, as well as in food banks, and other nonprofit organizations and purpose-driven food brands.
   
   
2. Venue56 Event Spaces
   
   Venue 56 is a rich, elegant facility that can be used for: Weddings, Family Reunions, Class Reunions, Retirement Parties, Corporate functions, Church Services, training classes, and Concerts
   
   
3. Fansub
   
   Fansub is an all-in-one tool for fan engagement, live streaming, and event ticketing. Fansub was founded in Atlanta in 2020 as the simplest way for creators and organizers to create special, ticketed experiences for their fans — no matter where they are in the world.
   
   
4. Pink Sugar Vegan Cupcakery
   
   PinkSugar is a vegan cupcakery preparing cupcakes fresh to order! All of our cupcakes are deliciously prepared fresh to order using all-natural, plant based, vegan ingredients. We refrain from using any dairy, and animal by products in our desserts!
   
   
5. Kamon Sheriff
   
   Kamon Sherriff is an Atlanta-based visual artist; painter, illustrator, and designer. Throughout his life, Kamon has always had an interest in drawing and creating. But after suffering a spinal cord injury in 2010 while in school for software engineering, he found himself with a lot more time to focus on art. After a journey into creating music, Kamon has settled into and found his purpose through creating visual artwork.
   
   
6. Melas Media
   
   Melas Media, LLC. is an innovatively ground-breaking media production company created in 2010 under the Melas division of Myriad Entertainment Group, LLC. Boasting a diverse portfolio of photography, video production, and design projects, Melas Media is poised to be one of the world’s cutting edge media companies. Centered around developing captivating creative content and high definition videos with high quality special fx, Melas Media caters to all industries looking for effective and strategic marketing campaigns.
   
   
7. Pretty Luxe Picnics
   
   Pretty Luxe Picnics & Affairs Atlanta is a full service luxury picnic company, that specializes in creating luxurious and upscale picnics settings and beautiful table-scapes for any gathering, whether large or intimate. We love nothing more than creating beautiful designs for each of our clients, from a sophisticated high-class afternoon tea picnic with the girls to a romantic & intimate evening that ignites the love between two people.
   
   
8. Ideal Media
   
   As a DJ/Audio-Visual Technician/Music Producer, DJ-HD can creatively combine Sound, Lighting, and Video to get you the outcome that you’re in search of.   “My aim is to combine skill, technology, interactivity, fun, and quality to provide a professional service for all of my clients. Being passionate about the craft of DJ’ing, assisting others with their important moments, and getting a kick out of seeing people have fun, is what makes this the best profession (for me anyway).
   
   
9. TableMade
   
   TableMade is your one stop shop for all your entertaining needs. Our assortment is expansive and unique. We have everything from 24K lined charger plates to specialty dyed glassware. Simply rent from our collection of curated collections and return once the party is over! So, call an old friend. Treat your loved one to an at-home dinner for two or dream up the most amazing tablescape at your reception. Bring together the gals, or guys, and reconnect at the table.
   
   
10. Machee Creates
    
    Machee Creates is a creative business owned by Machee Kelly. Machee is a Washington DC native and creative enthusiast.  Since her youth, creating has been her passion. In high school, she would design fashion illustrations and transform them into garments, but soon realized she enjoyed illustrating more than sewing textiles. Her entrepreneurial journey began in college, as she worked to create extra income for education expenses and her daughter. During that time she focused on print design and
    
    
11. Amarachi Ikeji Photography
    
    Amara Ikeji, the woman behind the lens of Amarachi Ikeji Photography, first picked up a camera during a fashion internship in college and hasn’t put one down since. She serves clients in New York City, Philadelphia, and Europe and strives to capture “stylish moments of love and beauty.” She has been featured BRIDES, New York Times & more and was also named Best Wedding Photographer in America by Brides.
    
    
12. Get Plated
    
    GetPlated is locally owned by a husband and wife team: Keyon & Alexandria Hammond! This duo shares a love for the kitchen and family. Keyon is the leader of the squad, a classically trained chef with an edge that brings bold flavors, refinement, approachability and more than 12 years experience as a platinum country club chef.
    
    
13. The Jam Band
    
    The Jam Band is a Port Saint Lucie, FL-based wedding band that services the coasts of Florida and beyond. Owner Jamilia Anderson, otherwise known as Jamilia Hall, started this band in 2013. Since then, this group of talented performers has thrilled wedding guests with a high standard of live musical entertainment.
    
    
14. Sister Fitness
    
    We are Daneka and Karadai we are 2 sisters and qualified fitness coaches who have come together to bring soca power fitness to you, we run fitness sessions and instruct online to power music that gets people moving.
    
    
15. Party Starter Photo Booth
    
    We are a photo booth and photo installation company that specializes in brand and corporate events.  The company is run by a photographer who has a high level of attention to details, highly organized, with the creative expertise to develop the best photo experience for your event. We have digital booths, virtual booths, printing booths, event photography, and 360 video booths.
    
    
16. Encaptivating Events
    
    Encaptivating venue is perfect for: Bridal Shower, Baby Shower, Corporate Meetings, Pop Up Shops, Private Dinners, Rehearsal Dinner Tailgate party, Wedding Reception, Wedding Ceremony and so much more!
    
    
17. Axum Creative
    
    Great photographers visually reflect truth, inform or educate audiences by making images which provoke thought and promote “Life-Stylized” as well as narratives of hope, beauty and culture rather than highlight ugliness or mockery. Axum Creative is for community-conscious businesses using social-first strategies to redefine the negative visual landscape, represent identity and cultivate community. We champion advocacy for equity in education, entertainment and social justice sectors by crafting distinct photographic images which result in positively shifting societal perceptions of the mis-represented.
    
    
18. Nina Lei Images
    
    Lesia is a freelance photographer beginning her journey on September 1, 2018. She has been an integral part of grand openings, engagement sessions, graduations, maternity shoots, etc. where the clients are most full of JOY! We pride ourselves on quality customer service and lightening fast return on images.
    
    
19. Quinn Conyers Emcee Extraordinaire
    
    Quinn Conyers has over 16 years of in-person and virtual public speaking and event hosting experience. She has served as an engaging Event Emcee for organizations such as Nike, Tedx, Black Speakers Network, Maryland Public Television annual Women’s Conference, and the Better Business Bureau to name a few. Quinn’s superpower is her E-Factor which includes a beautiful blend of Energy, Engagement, and Excitement resulting in the transformation of an average event into an epic experience.
    
    
20. Acute Inflections
    
    A velvety mix of Erykah Badu & Billie Holiday paired with the cool grooves of her 007 on bass” is how one reviewer described Acute Inflections, New York’s sultry duo led by a former Broadway singer. They can often be found entertaining their clients (United Nations, Mercedes-Benz, etc.) at high-end events across the country. They have shared the stage with Jennifer Hudson, Keith Urban, and other notable artists at some of these events. Their albums are always favorites on the jazz charts, and their shows are both fun and enchanting. Just prepare yourself, because these sassy artists love engaging their audiences!
    
    
21. Innovative Specialty Gifts, LTD.
    
    Promotional Products are tools used to market, create visibility and generate conversation about a Brand. Branding is about what you’re known for and who you are.  It’s about the style in which you market yourself and how your distinct from everyone else.  Think of a Corporate Gift as not just a gift but an investment in your Brand! Unlike other advertising media, Promotional Products are much more than simply a way to publicize a business or Brand. Their physical presence and long-lasting usefulness increase recipients’ engagement with the team, reinforcing the logo or message through multiple impressions.
    

Marketplace Vendors

22. Nywele Luxe
    
    Nywele Luxe is a luxury haircare company where your crown is our inspiration. We believe that there is a better, easier, and more affordable way to keep your protective styles and natural hair preserved, fresh, and most importantly long-lasting with our long bonnets, shower caps, and refresher kits. Our hair products refresh, soothe, stimulate and speak to all senses.
    
23. Forever PRG
    
    Make customizable metal tumblers, keychains, pens, and badge holders. I make bariatric gowns that are customizable w/the option to add vinyl images 3D mask and scrub caps
    
    
24. Leap Forward Publishing, LLC
    
    We are a black and woman owned book publisher dedicated to developing and promoting books with a focus on diversity and inclusion. We also offer self-publishing coaching services.
    
    
25. The Emerald Effect Co.
    
    The Emerald Effect Co. was started from a love a crafting and creativity. The month of May is near and dear to my family. From this an EMERALD was born. The Emerald is a symbol of inspiration, patience, embodies unity, compassion & unconditional love. Wouldn’t you like to experience The Emerald Effect?
    
    
26. Diane’s Dazzle
    
    Diane’s Dazzle sells beautiful 100% nickel and lead-free Paparazzi jewelry, that will make your heart glow with happiness.
    
    
27. Mommies Beauty
    
    Mommies Beauty is the creator and maker of the organic rice water, hair oil, shampoo and conditioner.  Made with love and care,  our products ensures and promotes blood circulation and hair growth.
    
    
28. Oil On My Hands’
    
    Oil On My Hands’ creates organic ingredient items to soothe the body and soul. Organic ingredients such as Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Vitamin E, Sweet Almond Oil to name a few that will help nourish and moisturize your skin with their natural properties. Oil On My Hands’ products are handmade with love for every “Beautifully Flawed” person!   We hope that you love our organic-made to order products just as much as our family and friends.

Ways to support these vendors: 

• Book them for an upcoming event. 
• Refer them to an organizer or agency that plans events. 
• Follow, like and share their work. 
• If you’ve worked with them, leave them a review.
• If they are product based, buy something! 
• Invite them to speak, sponsor or vend at your event where they can meet potential clients and customers.

These are just a few examples but there are several ways to support. Let’s be more intentional with our vendor relationships and help make events a more inclusive industry. 

In the spirit of love for Valentine’s Day, today’s feature vendors can create any experience your heart desires. Whether you’re planning a last-minute celebration for a loved one or creating a love-inspired activation at your next event, check out these vendors to pull together your best event experience yet!

Each week during Black History Month, we’ll feature 7 new black-owned businesses that have services and solutions for your events. These vendors range from chefs and musicians to digital platforms and exhibitors…and everything in between!

We believe it’s important to diversify your event team and encourage organizers to hire black vendors for contracts and gigs . Vendorspace works establish these relationships by promoting black-owned businesses that are ready to work! 

Check out this week’s feature vendors below:

Pretty Luxe Picnics
Category: Event Planning, Decor, Unique Solution

Pretty Luxe Picnics & Affairs Atlanta is a full service luxury picnic company, that specializes in creating luxurious and upscale picnics settings and beautiful table-scapes for any gathering, whether large or intimate. We love nothing more than creating beautiful designs for each of our clients, from a sophisticated high-class afternoon tea picnic with the girls to a romantic & intimate evening that ignites the love between two people. 

The team at Pretty Luxe have an engraved belief and appreciation for  living life extraordinarily, celebrating life out loud because yes you are royalty!! living in the moment and creating magical and extraordinary memories with the people we love and those that makes us the happiest.

IG: @prettyluxepicnics

Ideal Media
Category: DJ, Audio Visual Solutions, Draping, Uplighting, Photobooth 

As a DJ/Audio-Visual Technician/Music Producer, DJ-HD can creatively combine Sound, Lighting, and Video to get you the outcome that you’re in search of.   “My aim is to combine skill, technology, interactivity, fun, and quality to provide a professional service for all of my clients. Being passionate about the craft of DJ’ing, assisting others with their important moments, and getting a kick out of seeing people have fun, is what makes this the best profession (for me anyway). ”

IG: @idealmediaevents

Table Made
Category: Decor, Curated Tableware, Table-scaping, Event RENTAL

TableMade is your one stop shop for all your entertaining needs. Our assortment is expansive and unique. We have everything from 24K lined charger plates to specialty dyed glassware. Simply rent from our collection of curated collections and return once the party is over! So, call an old friend. Treat your loved one to an at-home dinner for two or dream up the most amazing tablescape at your reception. Bring together the gals, or guys, and reconnect at the table.

IG: @tablemadeco

Machee Creates
Category: Art & Stationery 

Machee Creates is a creative business owned by Machee Kelly. Machee is a Washington DC native and creative enthusiast.  Since her youth, creating has been her passion. In high school, she would design fashion illustrations and transform them into garments, but soon realized she enjoyed illustrating more than sewing textiles. Her entrepreneurial journey began in college, as she worked to create extra income for education expenses and her daughter. During that time she focused on print design and decor for events. 

Machee then took her passion to the classroom, teaching graphic design to elementary and middle school youth, inspiring young people to discover their own passion. As a young professional she’s designed for schools, non-profits, and most frequently local women-owned businesses.

Today Machee creates art and products inspired by women, their beauty and versatility, and colors that evoke joy.

IG: @macheecreates 

Amarachi Ikeji Photography
Category: Photographer

Amara Ikeji, the woman behind the lens of Amarachi Ikeji Photography, first picked up a camera during a fashion internship in college and hasn’t put one down since. She serves clients in New York City, Philadelphia, and Europe and strives to capture “stylish moments of love and beauty.” She has been featured BRIDES, New York Times & more and was also named Best Wedding Photographer in America by Brides.

IG: @amarachiikejiphotography

Get Plated
Category: Catering

GetPlated is locally owned by a husband and wife team: Keyon & Alexandria Hammond! This duo shares a love for the kitchen and family. Keyon is the leader of the squad, a classically trained chef with an edge that brings bold flavors, refinement, approachability and more than 12 years experience as a platinum country club chef.

Alexandria  brings the  distinct eye for details; from the logistics to the plates for every event. Her keen ear for listening has proven invaluable to bringing our private and corporate clients’ vision to fruition. Have a crazy idea-she’s definitely your girl to chat with.

Together they bring  a well-defined palette, fun culinary attitude and most importantly love to GetPlated. The guy loved the food! The girl loved the guy! Together they created GetPlated! 

IG: @getplateddc 

The Jam Band
Category: Musicians, Entertainment 

The Jam Band is a Port Saint Lucie, FL-based wedding band that services the coasts of Florida and beyond. Owner Jamilia Anderson, otherwise known as Jamilia Hall, started this band in 2013. Since then, this group of talented performers has thrilled wedding guests with a high standard of live musical entertainment.

Jamilia began her entertainment career in Miami, FL, at The Edwin Holland School of Dance. She followed her passion to NYC to train to the standard she dreamed about. Jamilia has performed in music videos, a hip-hop company, and on cruises as a production singer. Gathering together experienced and diverse music professionals, Jamilia created The Jam Band.

Wedding services offered by The Jam Band include live music, DJ service, MC service, and sound and lighting equipment. These musical professionals include vocalists, pianists, guitarists, bassists, keyboardists, brass instrumentalists, and percussionists. You may draw on their talents for your wedding ceremony and reception as well as your rehearsal dinner and after-party.

IG: @thejamband 

Ways to support these vendors: 

• Book them for an upcoming event. 
• Refer them to an organizer or agency that plans events. 
• Follow, like and share their work. 
• If you’ve worked with them, leave them a review.
• If they are product based, buy something! 
• Invite them to speak, sponsor or vend at your event where they can meet potential clients and customers.

These are just a few examples but there are several ways to support. Let’s be more intentional with our vendor relationships and help make events a more inclusive industry. 

If you know are black vendor in events or know one we should feature, send us an email at: hello@vendorspace.co 

In honor of Black History Month, we’re highlighting 28 black owned vendors you should consider for your next event.

Each week, we’ll feature 7 black event businesses that have services and solutions you should know about. These vendors range from chefs and musicians to digital platforms and exhibitors…and everything in between!

We believe it’s important to diversify your event team and encourage organizers to hire black vendors for more contracts and gigs. Vendorspace works to foster these vendor relationships by promoting black-owned businesses in our platform that are ready to work! 

Check out this week’s feature vendors below:

Chef David Stample
Category: Chef, Catering

David Stample is a trained chef and certified Reiki practitioner who believes in the healing power of food. Throughout his career, David has been guided by the idea of “culinary philanthropy,” his belief that food is a powerful medium through which we can take care of ourselves and others.

His passion for community involvement and bringing people together around the table has informed his work as a chef and culinary instructor, as well as in food banks, and other nonprofit organizations and purpose-driven food brands.

IG: @chefdavidstample

Venue 56 Event Spaces
Category: Venues

Venue 56 is a rich, elegant facility that can be used for: Weddings, Family Reunions, Class Reunions, Retirement Parties, Corporate functions, Church Services, training classes, and Concerts. Venue 56 is currently accepting bookings for the 2022 event season.

IG: @venue56es

Fansub
Category: Virtual Platform

Fansub is an all-in-one tool for fan engagement, live streaming, and event ticketing. Fansub was founded in Atlanta in 2020 as the simplest way for creators and organizers to create special, ticketed experiences for their fans — no matter where they are in the world.

IG: @fansub 

Pink Sugar Vegan Cupcakerie
Category: Dessert Chef, Vegan, Food Vendor

PinkSugar is a vegan cupcakery preparing cupcakes fresh to order! All of our cupcakes are deliciously prepared fresh to order using all-natural, plant based, vegan ingredients. We refrain from using any dairy, and animal by products in our desserts!

IG: @pinksugar

Kamon Sherriff
Category: Artist, Illustrator, Art Vendor

Kamon Sherriff is an Atlanta-based visual artist; painter, illustrator, and designer. Throughout his life, Kamon has always had an interest in drawing and creating. But after suffering a spinal cord injury in 2010 while in school for software engineering, he found himself with a lot more time to focus on art. After a journey into creating music, Kamon has settled into and found his purpose through creating visual artwork.

Kamon can bring

IG: @karmonsheriff

Oil On My Hands
Category: Beauty Vendor

We create organic ingredient items to soothe the body and soul. Organic ingredients such as Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Vitamin E, Sweet Almond Oil to name a few that will help nourish and moisturize your skin with their natural properties.

Oil On My Hands’ products are handmade with love for every “Beautifully Flawed” person!   We hope that you love our organic-made to order products just as much as our family and friends.
IG: @oilonmyhands

Melas Media
Category: Photographer/Videographer/ Audio-Visual

Melas Media, LLC. is an innovatively ground-breaking media production company created in 2010 under the Melas division of Myriad Entertainment Group, LLC. Boasting a diverse portfolio of photography, video production, and design projects, Melas Media is poised to be one of the world’s cutting edge media companies. Centered around developing captivating creative content and high definition videos with high quality special fx, Melas Media caters to all industries looking for effective and strategic marketing campaigns. From runways to mixers, we want to help you capture the moment or show people what they missed

IG: @melasmedia

Here are some ways you can support these vendors:

• Book them for an upcoming event. 
• Refer them to an organizer or agency that plans events. 
• Follow, like and share their work. 
• Leave them a review.
• Invite them to speak, sponsor or vend at your event to find new customers/clients. 

If you are a black vendor in events or know one we should feature, send us an email at: hello@vendorspace.co