May Vendor Showcase - The Revel Group

Those of us in the event industry know we are only as good as the people we surround ourselves with. The vendors we select become more than just a vendor, often a partner and if we are a lucky, a trusted friend. That could not be more true than when you choose to work with the companies in the Revel family; they all work hard, play hard and are always innovating which in this industry is key in my eyes. Like a shark, if you aren't always innovating and moving forward you will almost certainly meet an unfortunate fate.

So here's a inside view of the on how The Revel Group is taking the event industry by storm, leaving their mark on everything they touch and of course why you should be working with them. Because if you aren't, I can guarantee you aren't having any fun. Just take a peak at their site, I am obsessed with the team overview section. Scroll over their image - it's like a mullet business on the front, party on the flip side.

Revel Global Events

Lead by the incomparable Britt Whitfield, Global Events can make your event needs a reality no matter how outrageous or outlandish.

Why I love working with them: They will NEVER say no.

What is their most memorable event moment: They just produced the Cubs 100th Anniversary Event, need we say more?

Revel Decor

Clint Paton and his team of uniquely inspired floral and decor specialists create environments that capture the essence of the event and always include an unexpected flare. I love them for their edgy design style and creative mix of unique materials used in ways you have likely never seen before.

Vibrant ceremony setup at the Art Institute's Modern Wing

Why I love working with them: Edgy, contemporary designs - unlike anyone else out there.

Revel Decor's inspired take on a centerpiece.

Favorite event moment: when you stand at the back of the party and "take it all in" - when the music is going, when the colors of the floral and the lighting come together, the guests begin to arrive and the "hustle" of the party really gets underway. Its a very proud moment, no matter how big or small the party is.

What trends are they loving: COLOR. We've been seeing so much sepia and pastel floral for so long now, the return to the bold pinks, oranges, reds, yellows just makes me so happy. Its fun, its celebratory, to me color screams "now this is a party".

I recently asked them if they would help me with create some terrariums for my home in some vessels I purchased and what I got back was AMAZING. They brighten my day, everyday.

Limelight

Always a caterer that I admired for their modern and fresh take on event cuisine recently got even better with their partnership with Revel and of course when one of my favorite people joined their team - Cindi Webber. Just look at their site and you will smile - their bright, seasonal, contemporary food is like edible art. And their mixology program has me thirsty with their seasonal offerings.

Why I love working with them: The people, they can do anything!

What is their most memorable event moment: When you have done so many amazing events, why pick just one?

Grant Park on Election Night 2008!- the city was illuminated, visually and spiritually

Lollapallooza- feeding VIP guests, watching Rita on stage with Eddie Veder-Pearl Jam singing "Rocking in the Free World"

Retirement Party for corporate client's Chairman of the Board on Millenium Stage under Chicago Skyline

Private B-day party for 900 on Private Estate in Lake Geneva- 60"s theme- client arrived in convertible bug, Jimi Hendrix tribute band, Laugh-in comedy-wall speech routine, British invasion dance band.

What trends are they loving:

Regional cuisine i.e. specialties from New Orleans, Savannah, New England...lobster roll anyone?

Veggies! Local (of course), but now Hyper-Local - bee hives, never-heard-before specialty heirloom varieties

Fusion/Mash-ups - Ramen burger, dessert pizza, Cronuts

Homemade hot sauces, especially sriracha!

Vodka Spiked Heirloom Tomato Bloody Mary Shooter with Blackened Rock Shrimp Skewer

Revel Space

Looking for some of the most unique spaces in Chicago for events - Revel can do that too....what can't they do really. If you haven't already check out Revel Downtown, a sleek and clean venue that can really transform and it couldn't be in a better location at 440 W. Randolph

Chicago's hottest new venue - Revel Downtown

Coming soon are Revel Motor Row which I can tell you will be THE venue once it is completed. I had the unique opportunity to get a little sneak peak and even in its raw state had my creative gears turning imagining all the spectacular events bound to come. I also hear through the grapevine of a little (big) something coming in Fulton Market - what's more can these guys do?!?

Revel Cares

Who doesn't want to give back and when you can have fun doing it, even better! We love that Revel puts so much emphasis on helping others and coming up with the most creative ways for us to be part of it. Starting with the party to end all parties - Revel Bowl. As you can see, we didn't have any fun at this year....

It Takes a Village