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| Corporate Events & Conferences |
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 Denver Public Schools Foundation Gala
“Thanks so much Michele – you and your staff were great. Your team members were lovely, professional and terrific. It made such a difference that you had an entire team on hand to work with us that night.”Mary Spillane, Vice President of Development
“THANK YOU for doing such a great job on our event. It was so nice to actually sit and eat dinner! Your team was incredible and everything went off without a hitch. Thank you for taking care of all the tiny details!!! You are the best!” - Tiffany Cooley, Development Director
Success Story:
The Denver Public Schools Foundation celebrated its 6th Annual Gala at the Hyatt Regency Denver Downtown. The gala was a celebration of Denver Public Schools and student achievement. It served to thank current donors for their support as well as provide insight into the organization and its work. This year’s gala broke records and expectations surpassing anticipated attendance numbers and other target goals.
What We Did:
Finer Points Planning infused creativity and coordination into the numerous details and components that made the gala a memorable success. The FPP team creatively addressed the challenge of decorating the large space by infusing color throughout the details of the décor. Projected images and lights filled the large walls while also serving as additional sponsor recognition and efforts of “green” décor.
Working with both foundation and student volunteers, Finer Points Planning help design and manage a registration line that quickly checked in over 1,400 guests while never experiencing more than a one person wait time!
To highlight the theme of student achievement, the FPP team worked with the Board to maximize student involvement throughout the night. Each member of our team helped coordinate with the parents, teachers, and transportation of each student group. Student greeters from Brown and Teller elementary schools welcomed the glamorous guests as they stepped into the hotel lobby. Finer Points Planning stocked a green room with food and beverages for student groups performing throughout the evening and acted as the communication liaison to ensure that each group was on cue and on-time to begin their performance.
Finer Points Planning worked extensively with the hotel and audio visual professionals for months prior to the event to design a program that flowed seamlessly and efficiently between program components while visually delighting guests.
Renowned speakers such as Governor Bill Ritter, Mayor John Hickenlooper, and DPS Superintendent Michael Bennet spoke with passion about the mission and progress of Denver Public Schools and their vision for the future. With the help of Finer Points Planning, Denver Public Schools was able to highlight student achievement and infuse their guests with their passion for the foundation’s future. |
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 CAEPA Conference – Full Service Online Registration Manager
“Receiving the finalized attendance report complete with a directory of all the registrant's data is extremely helpful information - thank you! We appreciated all that you did to help make it a successful conference. It was wonderful working with all of you! We'll be talking soon about next year.” - Margie Wagner, President, Colorado Adult Education Professional Association
Success Story:
The Colorado Adult Education Professional Association, CAEPA, is the largest professional organization for adult educators in Colorado and provides leadership in professional development and advocacy. Their annual conference brought 400 professionals from throughout the state to attend this three day event. The conference featured over 40 workshops on adult education topics such as ABE/GED teaching, ESL, administration, and family literacy.
What We Did:
Finer Points Planning began by building an online registration page customized to the conference’s specific needs. The FPP team worked with CAEPA board members to strategically determine what information to collect from registrants, not only better prepare for the conference but also utilize the information for their database in the future.
Finer Points Planning collected, recorded, and provided periodic update reports on outstanding balances from over 150 public and private organizations across the state of Colorado. The team was able to quickly respond and adapt to registrant’s specific concerns and requests to ensure everyone benefitted from both the efficiency of the online system as well as Finer Points Planning’s personalized customer service. Finer Points Planning also worked with CAEPA to set-up a merchant account to allow registrants to pay the conference and membership renewals fees online – this was a first for the organization!
At the conference, Finer Points Planning managed the streamlined registration process. Attendees were checked-in and given name tags, tote bags, and conference materials. Throughout the day, Finer Points Planning was on hand to register walk-in attendees, collect final payments, as well as provide check out services for the conference’s silent auction.
After the conference, Finer Points Planning generated a collection of invaluable reports to CAEPA. Furthermore, the team helped the organization analyze the data to identify conference’s strengths and weaknesses as well as develop suggestions for improvement in the next year’s event. Reports included a conference attendee directory, attendance at each breakout session, an analysis of revenue by registrant type, an in-depth accounting of costs and revenues and more.
With the help of Finer Points Planning, CAEPA was able to provide an easy and efficient registration process to attendees as well as gather and analyze to conference data to further leverage the organization’s strengths and success in the future! |
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 Greater Glendale Chamber of Commerce – 5th Annual Member Appreciation Dinner
We are proud to support Finer Points Planning. Their team works as our Chamber’s event planners – but really, we rely on them to do so much more. From initial negotiations to on-site event management, they are constantly handling a variety of projects in various stages of planning and development, while always recognizing the importance of prioritizing. At our Chamber of Commerce, we try to create an atmosphere at our events that is both professional and fun. Finer Points Planning always does a great job, from small events to bigger ones. - Larry Harte, Executive Director, Greater Glendale Chamber of Commerce
Success Story:
Greater Glendale Chamber of Commerce objective is not to be the biggest Chamber of Commerce, but instead to be the most effective. The Chamber in just five years has over 150 members. They foster a lively environment for networking by focusing on results while at the same time having fun!
What We Did:
It was not uncommon for Greater Glendale Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Larry Harte to call up a local venue, toss out a date, propose an idea and voila – his annual membership appreciation dinner was planned. As the Chamber continues to grow its membership, the need for more organization, creativity, and planning were needed to execute a unique and polished 6th annual member appreciation dinner.
Finer Points Planning worked with the team at the Chamber to review past events, identify strengths and weaknesses of those events and set specific goals for the dinner. FPP noted the priorities and worked to deliver an event that would showcase the key objectives. In addition to securing a local and appropriate venue to host the event, FPP coordinated with catering, beverage, entertainment, audio visual, rentals, décor and registration. It was important to execute a well organized event that highlighted the evening’s program and keeping to the approved timeline all the while maintaining the fun and genuine atmosphere that the Greater Glendale Chamber of Commerce was known for.
With the help of Finer Points Planning, guests were delighted to find an evening filled with new and unique ideas, a polished and timely program as well as fantastic food - and all on a cold and snowy Monday night in January. |
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 Dragon Boat Gala
“FPP successfully delivered against our objectives. Michele and the FPP team were dynamic, professional, and contributed significantly to the success of the event. They provided me, as the Event Sponsor and Chair, the confidence and peace of knowing all aspects of the planning for the Gala were being handled so both myself and my fellow board members could focus on strategy and sales.” - Jim W. Fore, Chair Elect, Colorado Dragon Boat Festival Gala
Success Story:
Every summer, the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival attracts thousands of visitors to Sloan’s Lake Park, where teams gather to race brightly painted and decorated canoes ranging from 40 to 100 feet in length. To help raise funds for this fast-growing and exciting cultural showcase, the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival hosts an annual gala to raise awareness of Asian cultures and bring people in the community together. Finer Points Planning helped plan and execute this year’s gala to maximize fundraising as well as provide a cultural and memorable experience for all of the attendees.
What We Did:
With the goal of raising money in mind, Finer Points Planning was in charge of designing, developing, and executing an outstanding signature gala event as well as increasing awareness and retaining guest loyalty. The team coordinated the donation of silent auctions as well as designing the displays of all silent auction items to maximize each items exposure as well as incorporate the items into the décor of the night. Finer Points Planning developed the theme concept of implementing actual dragon boat heads and kites into the room décor. The centerpiece on each table was an authentic Chinese dragon kite surrounded by candles, and an unobtrusive table number. The kites were then sold at the end of the evening for an increased opportunity for revenue.
Finer Points Planning managed the registration table with an experienced and professional team. Guests were greeted and instructed of their escort cards and table assignments. The main décor of the ballroom was a mysterious VIP section reserved for higher paying guests. The VIP guests entered into a half circle of floor to ceiling black sheer drapes. Inside the designated area, guests received cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres. They were entertained by an Asian palm reader and received calligraphy art created by a Chinese calligrapher. The atmosphere created a true VIP experience where the guests were welcomed and appreciated for their support. All the while, Finer Points Planning achieved the goal of creating the experience still being financially cost effective.
Finer Points Planning led the board in scripting and timing the event program incorporating a Mistress of Ceremonies and an honorary ceremony for three successful Asian immigrants living the American dream. The program consisted of a 5-minute video, speeches by the honorary patrons, and a special children’s dance. Guests viewed a touching video, speeches were made by the honorary patrons, and several community groups performed special Indian dances. Finer Points Planning was always in the background ensuring the program progressed seamlessly, from the quality and function of the audio-visual components to the direction of presenters and performers to appropriate positions at the right time. Meanwhile, the silent auction was happening around the room. The visually appealing and easy to shop silent auction displays made bidding for the guests an effortless experience. Our team helped to create and execute a seamless and efficient check out system that allowed for guests not to wait in line for more than a few minutes. Ninety-nine percent of the silent auction items sold and thereby helping the board to not only reach but surpass its goal in silent auction revenue.
The 2nd Annual Dragon Boat Gala brought almost 300 attendees to the Seawell Ballroom at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts and surpassed the board’s financial benchmarks. Finer Points Planning successfully synthesized the board’s goals of combining a memorable and cultural experience with effective fundraising efforts. |
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Photobucket
 Success Story:
Photobucket sought Finer Points Planning’s help to celebrate their success over the past five years that had recently resulted in an acquisition by Fox Interactive Media, joining their worldwide network including MySpace, FoxSports.com, RottenTomatoes, and more. In order to facilitate a smooth transition between the two companies, Photobucket hosted an employee appreciation event capitalizing on the photography industry – both then and now - with an eclectic and contemporary flare!
What We Did:
Finer Points Planning created a twist on the company’s industry through the theme of “Breaking News”. The team developed a theme strategy incorporating location, décor, and entertainment to create a distinctive and chic event at the new Curtis hotel in downtown Denver. Finer Points Planning provided a hassle-free planning experience for the client by working independently after the initial planning meetings.
As guests entered the ballroom, they were met with big band music and greeted by a 1900’s ‘Paper Boy’ distributing newspaper programs. The black and white color scheme and beaming lights added to the intimate and eclectic environment. The theme was executed through the details in the room such as large panels that resembled front page newspapers interspersed around the room. Glowing screens located behind the stage and luminary centerpieces filled up the room.
After wandering through the artistic display of food station buffets, the crowd enjoyed an interactive improv performance by professional actors taking on characters that complemented the theme. Guests crowded onto the dance floor as the DJ spun their favorite tunes. Guests also used a novelty photo booth for fun photos and received commemorative framed favors. Throughout the evening, actors dressed as early century photographers mixed with guests, taking mock photos with antique cameras.
Finer Points Planning exceeded expectations by delivering an event that celebrated the company’s recent acquisition as well as their past five years of excellence and growth. |
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Cherry Creek Chamber of Commerce
Planting the Seeds for Business Growth
Annual Luncheon
 “The time you took to understand our needs, your attention to details and creative approach at leveraging sponsorship recognition, exceeded our expectations! The consistency of “messaging” from invitations, signage, check-in and programs, truly reflected the professionalism to which we are committed.” - Dean M. Savoca, Board Member, Cherry Creek Chamber of Commerce
Success Story:
The Cherry Creek Chamber of Commerce strives to improve the overall business and social life of not only its members but also of the entire community. Working on a volunteer basis, the six-member board partnered with Finer Points Planning to coordinate, plan and execute their 2nd annual business luncheon. On February 28, 2007, the Cherry Creek Chamber of Commerce hosted the “Planting the Seeds for Business Growth” luncheon at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Keynote speaker, Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper, and Master of Ceremonies, 9News’ Greg Moss, were just two of the individuals attending that infused energy and enthusiasm into the luncheon.
What We Did:
Finer Points Planning focused on creating, developing and continuing the creative theme and design of the event throughout all details while coordinating the numerous logistical details to ensure a seamless and polished event. The Finer Points Planning team worked with the Cherry Creek Chamber of Commerce board members throughout the planning process. Finer Points Planning led board meetings and facilitated communication flow between the six board members and all vendors, sponsors, and coordinated with the communication staff for Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper and 9News Business Reporter Greg Moss.
Finer Points Planning arranged and reviewed contracts from all vendors including the caterer, photographer, florist, facility, and rentals. The team also designed and managed the RSVP system including invitation disbursement, RSVP tracking, attendee payments and the production of periodic registration reports. Finer Points Planning also developed the master scripted for the emcee and speaking board members as well as coordinated and directed a program rehearsal to ensure smooth transitions between speakers. Finer Points Planning also proposed unique touches to recognize sponsors as well as writing the program content and design.
From writing and distributing a master timeline to generating directional and sponsor signage, the team at Finer Points Planning ensured a seamless, and timely, flow of events. Finer Points Planning was there handling all the details the day-of the event including executing a seamless check-in and registration for 200 guests producing an efficient and positive first impression for attendees while allowing board members to focus on greeting the guests.
The combined effort of Finer Points Planning and the Cherry Creek Chamber of Commerce truly created an exquisite event that was enjoyed by all – it was a great “re-growth” event for a redeveloping Chamber!
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State of Colorado
Department of Health Care Policy and Financing
Success Story: 
The State of Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing's goal was to present five, one-day conferences around the state to educate residents about their new consumer-directed, long-term healthcare program, the Independence Plus Grant. The Systems Change Section at the Department runs the Independence Plus Grant from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The conferences were to welcome a broad spectrum of participants such as Medicaid clients, personal attendants, families, case managers, and advocates.
What We Did:
Finer Points Planning worked with the State of Colorado’s Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to ensure seamless, memorable and educational conferences in Pueblo, Durango, Fort Collins, Grand Junction and Denver. The team at Finer Points researched, negotiated and coordinated the food, lodging, meeting rooms, audio/visual components, and special arrangements for participants with disabilities. Finer Points worked with sales, catering and lodging offices to review contracts and plans to ensure all details were confirmed. Finer Points also managed registration for the 400 anticipated participants. The company designed, distributed and responded to registrations done via web, fax, toll-free telephone, and snail mail formats. The team at Finer Points designed and coordinated directional and informational signs, generated name tags, and helped the client design and send “save the date” registration reminders both electronically and through the mail.
While ensuring all logistical plans were confirmed, Finer Points also proposed small creative details such as promotional notepads and afternoon refreshments that served to increase the quality of the conference in a big way. Finer Points Planning was on-site at each conference to make sure the successful execution of all plans and particulars. The company also managed the distribution of all informational materials to conference participants, and worked with facility coordinators to ensure all audio/visual equipment was set-up and functioning. Through the team’s ability to anticipate challenges and solve problems promptly, the participants, attendees, and staff enjoyed a seamless and comfortable conference experience.
Finally, Finer Points Planning worked with the client to coordinate post-event activities, proposing and ensuring that appreciation gifts were sent to all speakers and presenters. The team also handled all post-event actions and relations with site and facility managers at each conference. Additionally, Finer Points dispersed and collected evaluation feedback from conference participants, and generated a final report and presentation for the client.
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Hospice of Saint John
Annual Mardi Gras Gala
"From the beginning of the relationship, Finer Points Planning brought organization, creativity and energy to the planning process. They worked with our board members, fundraising committee, employees and volunteers, simultaneously incorporating a variety of ideas and perspectives. By integrating our desires, input and past experience, with their resourceful and professional perspective, the event this year was better than ever." - Steven Cooper, Executive Director & CEO,
Hospice of Saint John
Success Story:
The Hospice of Saint John annually hosts a Mardi Gras Gala to raise awareness and funds to strengthen their innovative, award-winning, and life changing mission. The Hospice of Saint John’s mission is to provide alternative, supportive and loving care for the terminally ill and their families, with an emphasis on life and living. Through the years, the Hospice has provided care for over 20,000 patients and their families.
What We Did:
Finer Points Planning used a cohesive approach to combine the board and staff’s ideas plus previous years' experiences, and create a new and exciting event for the upcoming year. Finer Points Planning developed, coordinated and executed a stronger promotion and publicity campaign for the event. The team managed the design and delivery of invitations, as well as the distribution of press releases through email blasts, various publications and radio. The team also increased sponsor awareness at the event by producing signs displayed at the gala. Through the team’s help and expertise, event attendance was increased by 64% in comparison to previous years.
Finer Points Planning coordinated “a more organized and better staffed event.” The team created detailed timelines and facilitated clear channels of communication between all vendors, staff and volunteers. Finer Points Planning also helped to coordinate the silent and live auctions with their merchandising and organizational expertise. They streamlined registration, check-in and check-out procedures to ensure a seamless experience for guests and attendees.
With the help of Michele and the Finer Points Planning team, the Hospice of Saint John board and staff were able to greet and entertain guests and potential donors instead of worrying about the logistics of the night. As a direct result of Finer Points’ involvement, “the Hospice of Saint John was able to hold a more organized gala that helped us to increase the awareness of our organization and our mission, and contribute to our fundraising goals.”
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Community Resource Center
25 Years, Legends, and Countless Leaders
Anniversary Celebration
"Michele Willett and her staff worked hand in hand with us to make our event the best it could possibly be. Michele and her staff guided CRC’s board and staff to take leadership roles and supported the decisions that we made. They helped us understand how to make our ideas powerful." - Steve Graham, Executive Director,
Felicia Hilton, Board President,
Community Resource Center
Success Story:
The Community Resource Center provides opportunities, tools and strategies for Colorado nonprofit organizations and community groups to achieve a more just society. They offer a continuum of services throughout the state of Colorado. On June 21st, 2006, CRC celebrated their 25th anniversary at the Botanic Gardens. CRC honored 25 legends who reflect the heart of CRC's dedication and service to Colorado's nonprofit communities.
What We Did:
Finer Points Planning worked with the client to create and manage an event that fostered communication amongst guests, while preserving the feeling of tribute to the leaders and legends being honored that evening. The Finer Points team brought their professional and positive manner to help keep group meetings and the entire planning process on track. One staff member noted, “it was evident from the beginning the positive impact having a professional on our team made.” The Finer Points team worked to maximize the effectiveness of CRC’s input by taking all the ideas and suggestions, combining them, and bringing them promptly back to the client for more feedback. The board and staff were able to focus on achieving the center’s goals and priories for the event, instead of having to worry about the hundreds of logistical details that went into the planning and execution.
Finer Points Planning worked with the site to make sure that all guests were accommodated and all of CRC’s needs were met. Finer Points designed the event utilizing customized flowers, balloons, catering and decorations to achieve the atmosphere the client desired. Finer Points also offered creative solutions and ideas to maximize publicity, sponsorship and fundraising opportunities. The team’s logistical and management expertise, coupled with the wonderful mission of the Community Resource Center, made the 25 Years, Legends, and Countless Leaders event a truly special and memorable occasion.
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 CommA Conference
The Denver Foundation sought Finer Points Planning’s assistance to host its 2007 CommA Conference. The annual event brings together representatives from well-known, established foundations throughout the country for an opus of collaboration and partnerships. The conference was a multi-day event including speakers, breakout sessions, networking hours, and mountain/cultural activities.
What We Did:
Finer Points Planning infused direction, coordination, and creativity into the planning process. The team helped guide and synthesize the event visualization while the majority of the planning committee was spread across several different states. Finer Points Planning used its local expertise and wealth of contacts to suggest and organize local cultural activities as well as a team-building excursion to the mountains. The team matched the client’s description of desired atmospheres and budgets with venues and entertainment around the city of Denver.
Finer Points Planning helped negotiate contracts for the venue, food and beverage, and audio-visual needs. Through the company’s negotiations and recommendations over 15% was saved. Finer Points Planning created custom binders for conference participants, designing and producing both external and internal components as well as coordinating with presenters to include their proprietary PowerPoint slides into binder media.
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